PCB Stator Haptic Feedback for Cogging-Free Fly-By-Wire Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fly-by-wire systems lack high haptic resolution due to limitations in traditional motors, particularly DC motors with cogging torque, which degrade the quality of haptic feedback and are costly and difficult to assemble.
Innovation Solution
Implementing input and output subsystems with PCB stator motors that transmit torque and angular position information via a communication layer, using an input motor controller and encoder to generate haptic feedback based on the offset from a target position, and an output motor controller to adjust the input motor position accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional DC motors are used in fly-by-wire systems, then the system can transmit user input signals, but the haptic feedback quality degrades due to cogging torque
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical motor systems with PCB stator motors that use printed circuit board traces to generate magnetic fields. This substitution eliminates the cogging torque problem inherent in conventional motors with permanent magnets and stator slots, providing smooth haptic feedback without mechanical interference
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameters of the motor system by using PCB traces instead of traditional windings, eliminating the periodic magnetic field interactions that cause cogging. The PCB stator motor achieves continuous torque delivery without the torque ripple characteristic of traditional DC motors
2Reliability
If mechanical connections are used to transmit energy from input to output, then haptic feedback is provided, but the system complexity increases with multiple parts that can fail
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical connections with electronic signal transmission. The input motor controller receives user input signals electronically and transmits control commands to the output motor controller, eliminating the need for mechanical linkages, shafts, gears, and other physical connection components that can wear or fail
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces electronic controllers and communication protocols as intermediaries between the input and output systems. The input motor controller and output motor controller exchange signals through a communication interface, serving as mediators that coordinate system operation without requiring direct mechanical connection
3Device complexity
If fly-by-wire systems eliminate mechanical connections, then system reliability improves, but haptic feedback is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the output motor controller transmits position and status information back to the input motor controller. This feedback loop enables the input side to generate appropriate haptic feedback forces that simulate the mechanical connection feel, allowing the system to maintain tactile responsiveness without physical linkages
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes mechanical haptic feedback with electronically generated haptic feedback. The input PCB stator motor generates controlled forces and torques to simulate the feel of mechanical resistance and movement, replacing the need for actual mechanical connections while maintaining the sensory experience
4Measurement precision
If PCB stator motors are used instead of traditional motors, then haptic resolution improves and cogging is minimized, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the motor stator functionality with the printed circuit board structure. The PCB traces serve dual purposes as both electrical conductors and magnetic field generators, eliminating the need for separate motor components and simplifying the overall manufacturing process despite the specialized PCB design requirements
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
Achieves high haptic resolution with minimal cogging, providing a seamless and believable haptic experience by accurately simulating mechanical feedback without perceptible artificial movements, suitable for applications requiring high input and output forces.
Implementation Method 1
an input motor that receives information from an output motor to provide a user with the simulated feel of a mechanical system
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods of the inventive subject matter are directed to haptic feedback systems that use PCB stator motors in at least the input subsystems. Systems thus include one or more input subsystems that are configured to operate with an output subsystem (either real or virtual). Input subsystems implement PCB stator motors to eliminate cogging and to create high-fidelity, ultra-realistic haptic feedback that a user would be unable to distinguish from direct operation of a similar mechanical system. In some embodiments, multiple input subsystems are configured to operate with a single output subsystem.