Programmable Haptic Surface Using Shape Memory Liquid Crystal Pixels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing haptic technologies are limited in their ability to provide programmable and locally deformable surfaces with large deformations at a smaller scale, suitable for compact and lightweight devices, and lack untethered actuation capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A haptic system utilizing a shape memory liquid crystal network that contracts upon electric and/or thermal stimuli to achieve smoother surfaces or form protrusions, integrated into electronic devices for user input and output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing haptic technologies are used, then haptic feedback can be provided, but the ability to provide programmable and locally deformable surfaces with large deformations at a smaller scale is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The haptic actuator is divided into multiple independent pixels, each capable of independent deformation. This segmentation allows localized haptic feedback at specific positions on the display surface, enabling programmable and locally deformable surfaces while maintaining a compact overall device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs liquid crystal elastomers that undergo significant shape changes in response to electrical stimuli. By changing the electrical parameters applied to different pixels, the system achieves programmable deformation patterns with large local deformations while keeping the device scale small.
2Ease of operation
If traditional haptic devices are used, then tactile feedback is provided, but untethered actuation capabilities are lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical actuation mechanisms with liquid crystal elastomer-based actuation that responds to electrical stimuli. This substitution enables untethered actuation capabilities where haptic feedback can be triggered wirelessly through electrical signals, simplifying the actuation mechanism while improving ease of operation.
3Shape
If shape memory liquid crystal network is used, then large deformations are achieved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid crystal elastomer pixels are pre-configured with specific molecular orientations and cross-linking patterns during manufacturing that enable predictable shape changes upon electrical stimulation. This preliminary preparation allows the material to achieve large deformations in a controlled and repeatable manner, making the manufacturing process more manageable despite the complexity of the deformation behavior.
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 programmable and locally deformable surfaces capable of large deformations, suitable for compact devices, enhancing user experience through tactile feedback in devices like smartphones, VR systems, and providing warnings in vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
each support strut comprising a liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) hinge disposed between a first rigid portion and a second rigid portion
Implementation Method 2
the surface layer comprising a shape memory liquid crystal network which contracts upon electric and/or thermal stimuli
Implementation Method 3
the surface layer comprising a shape memory liquid crystal network which contracts upon electric and/or thermal stimuli
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a haptic system. The present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing a shape memory liquid crystal network. Furthermore, the present invention relates to electronic apparatuses with user input and device output provided with such a haptic system.