Piezoelectric Actuator Membrane Tactile Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable electronic devices lack effective means to provide tactile output to users without requiring them to view a display, which is inconvenient in situations where display viewing is difficult, dangerous, or disruptive.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an actuator assembly within the device that includes a piezoelectric disk actuator between a base and a membrane, controlled by a controller to provide tactile feedback by striking the membrane upon detection of specific events, such as incoming messages or reminders.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the device size is reduced for portability, then ease of portability is improved, but the ability to provide tactile output without display viewing deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the tactile output function with the existing display structure by integrating an actuator assembly between the display and housing. This merging allows tactile feedback to be provided within the constrained device space without requiring separate components, thus maintaining portability while enabling tactile output capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a membrane as an intermediary element between the actuator and the user's finger. This membrane transmits mechanical vibrations from the actuator to the user's skin, enabling tactile output without requiring the user to visually view the display, thus solving the contradiction between device size and tactile output capability.
2Ease of operation
If tactile output is provided without display viewing, then ease of operation in certain contexts is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator assembly serves multiple functions: it provides tactile feedback for notifications, enables vibration alerts, and can work with or without display viewing. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering tactile output capability that enhances ease of operation in various contexts.
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
Enables users to receive notifications and information through tactile output, allowing for awareness of events without needing to visually check the device, enhancing usability in various contexts.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator assembly, including a piezoelectric disk actuator
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes a base, a membrane coupled to and spaced from the base, an actuator disposed between the base and the membrane, and spaced from the membrane when the actuator is not actuated, and a controller configured to control actuation of the actuator to cause the actuator to contact the membrane.