Multi-Tactile Feedback Component Using Thin Film Deformation and Vibration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tactile feedback devices are bulky, uncomfortable for long-term use, and limited to single feedback functions, hindering the achievement of lightweight and varied feedback experiences.

Innovation Solution

A multi-tactile feedback component combining a thin film deformation element and a thin film vibration element, powered by an integrated module, to enhance feedback fidelity by providing both deformation and vibration feedback.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If existing tactile feedback devices use exoskeleton or pneumatic structures, then tactile feedback function is achieved, but device size becomes large and bulky

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetactile feedback functionVSAvoiddevice size

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs thin film structures including a first elastic layer, second elastic layer, and piezoelectric layer to replace traditional bulky exoskeleton and pneumatic components. These thin films maintain the necessary mechanical functionality while dramatically reducing device volume and enabling lightweight construction suitable for wearable applications.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces pneumatic mechanical systems with piezoelectric actuation. The piezoelectric layer converts electrical signals directly into mechanical deformation and vibration, eliminating the need for complex pneumatic chambers, valves, and fluid reservoirs, thereby significantly compacting the device structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Device complexity

If existing tactile feedback devices are designed for single feedback function, then device structure is simple, but feedback experience variety is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice structureVSAvoidfeedback experience variety

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the thin film deformation element to perform multiple functions: it can generate static deformation feedback through differential activation of the first and second elastic layers, and it can generate dynamic vibration feedback through the piezoelectric layer. This multi-functionality is achieved within a single integrated structure rather than requiring separate devices for each feedback type.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables dynamic switching between different feedback modes (deformation vs. vibration) by controlling the piezoelectric layer's operation. The system can adapt its mechanical response in real-time based on control signals, providing versatile feedback experiences without requiring multiple fixed-configuration components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Duration of action of moving object

If tactile feedback devices are worn for long time, then user experience is extended, but comfort decreases due to bulkiness

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewear durationVSAvoiduser comfort

Core Design Contradiction:

Duration of action of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The thin film construction with elastic layers and piezoelectric materials creates an ultra-lightweight device that can be comfortably worn for extended periods. The flexible nature of the thin films allows the device to conform to the user's body contours, reducing discomfort and enabling long-duration wear for applications such as virtual reality and remote teleoperation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The multi-tactile feedback component achieves enhanced realism and comfort by providing simultaneous deformation and vibration feedback, overcoming the limitations of bulkiness and single-function feedback.

Implementation Method 1

The thin film vibration element is connected to the thin film deformation element and has a piezoelectric layer and a plurality of tactile structures. When the power module supplies the electrical energy to the thin film vibration element, the piezoelectric layer vibrates.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPiezoelectric effect: Piezoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 2

When the power module supplies an electrical energy to the thin film deformation element, the first elastic layer is deformed to push the fluid and the second elastic layer.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS20250073752A1Thin film deformation element and multi-tactile feedback component

Publication Date: 2025.03.06 IND TECH RES INST

AI summary

A multi-tactile feedback component is suitable for an electronic device and includes a thin film deformation element, a thin film vibration element, and a power module. The thin film deformation element has first and second elastic layers and a gain layer disposed therebetween and forming a channel to accommodate a fluid. The thin film vibration element is connected to the thin film deformation element and has a piezoelectric layer and tactile structures. The tactile structures are disposed at a side surface of the piezoelectric layer. The power module is coupled to the thin film deformation element and the thin film vibration element. When the power module supplies an electrical energy to the thin film deformation element, the first elastic layer is deformed to push the fluid and the second elastic layer. When the power module supplies the electrical energy to the thin film vibration element, the piezoelectric layer vibrates.