Piezoelectric Actuator Substrate for Localized Haptic Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electronic devices rely on vibratory motors for haptic notifications, which may not provide a nuanced or localized tactile experience, limiting the effectiveness of haptic feedback.
Innovation Solution
The use of a haptic structure with actuators and substrates that move in response to stimuli, causing deflection and providing tactile output on electronic device surfaces, such as cover glass or displays, through piezoelectric or electroactive polymer materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If vibratory motors are used for haptic notifications, then the device can provide haptic feedback, but the tactile experience is not nuanced or localized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the haptic feedback system into multiple independent actuators distributed across the device surface. Each actuator can be independently controlled to provide localized tactile feedback at specific positions, enabling precise and nuanced haptic communication without requiring a single centralized motor.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements haptic actuators with different characteristics at different locations on the device surface. Each actuator is optimized for its specific position and function, providing tailored tactile feedback quality locally rather than uniform feedback across the entire surface.
2Measurement precision
If multiple actuators are distributed across the device surface, then localized haptic feedback is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs actuators that can serve multiple functions: providing haptic feedback, detecting touch input, and potentially serving as structural elements of the device surface. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby managing complexity despite the distributed architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines haptic actuation and touch sensing capabilities into an integrated system where actuators and sensors work together as a unified haptic interface. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall system architecture.
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
This approach enables more precise and localized haptic feedback, enhancing user interaction with electronic devices by providing a range of tactile sensations based on substrate movement and force detection.
Implementation Method 1
the present disclosure is directed to using piezoelectric materials or electroactive polymers for receiving input and for providing haptic output for an electronic device
Implementation Method 2
the present disclosure is directed to using piezoelectric materials or electroactive polymers for receiving input and for providing haptic output for an electronic device
Implementation Method 3
the force-sensing element may include a piezoresistive element, a capacitive element, or a combination of both
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are methods and systems for providing haptic output on an electronic device. In some embodiments, the electronic device includes an actuator configured to move in a first direction. The electronic device also includes a substrate coupled to the actuator. When the actuator moves in the first direction, the substrate or a portion of the substrate, by virtue of being coupled to the actuator, moves in a second direction. In some implementations, the movement of the substrate is perpendicular to the movement of the actuator.