Piezoelectric Haptic Actuator with Magnetic Augmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices lack effective mechanisms to provide tactile feedback on limited surface areas, particularly in portable devices where space is constrained.
Innovation Solution
Integration of haptic actuators with piezoelectric cantilevers that utilize magnetic augmentation to enhance tactile output, allowing for localized deflection and movement of the device's surface, enabling perceivable tactile sensations through actuation signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If traditional haptic mechanisms are used, then tactile feedback can be provided, but the device requires significant space that is not available in portable devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines piezoelectric actuation with magnetic amplification in a single integrated structure. The piezoelectric element provides precise control while the magnetic components (magnet and ferritic plate) amplify the force output, merging two mechanisms into one compact unit that delivers both tactile feedback and space efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the system by introducing magnetic field interactions alongside piezoelectric effects. By adjusting magnetic field strength and piezoelectric voltage, the system achieves variable force output in a compact configuration, transforming the operational parameters to overcome space limitations.
2Shape
If piezoelectric structures are used to produce tactile output, then localized surface deflection is achieved, but the actuation force is insufficient without magnetic augmentation
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic field acts as an intermediary that translates the small displacement from the piezoelectric element into amplified force. The magnet and ferritic plate create a magnetic spring mechanism that mediates between the piezoelectric actuation and the final tactile output, enhancing force while maintaining precise shape control.
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 solution provides a compact and efficient means to produce tactile outputs on electronic devices, enhancing user interaction by creating perceivable haptic feedback without significant space requirements.
Implementation Method 1
The elongated substrate has a piezoelectric layer attached along one side. A control circuitry applies an actuation signal to the piezoelectric layer which causes a movement of the elongated substrate
Implementation Method 2
A magnetic element is coupled to the elongated substrate towards its second end. A ferritic plate is positioned near, but separate from, the magnetic element to form a gap
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are electronic devices having piezoelectric haptic actuators to generate haptic output. The haptic actuators can be configured as a beam with a bendable material layer and a piezoelectric material layer the cause the beam to bend. The bending force can be increased by coupling a magnet to the beam and positioning a ferritic plate near the magnet. Alternatively, a ferritic plate can be attached to the beam, with the magnet positioned apart from, but near, the plate. The haptic actuator can have a two-sided piezoelectric configuration, having a piezoelectric layer on each side of the bendable material layer. A two-sided piezoelectric configuration can have a second magnet and ferritic plate pair on a side of the beam opposite the first. The haptic actuator may use electromagnets.