RFID Tag Tactile Display Adapter
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current tactile displays using piezo electric actuators are expensive, fragile, slow, require unsafe voltages, and are limited in the number of moveable tactile elements they can display, also necessitating costly and time-consuming annual maintenance through technician cleaning.
Innovation Solution
The use of a RFID tag and/or detector for communication between a tactile display and adapter, allowing for the modification of tactile element size, shape, location, and texture, and employing electrical or serial communication methods such as USB ports for adaptable functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If piezo electric actuators are used to move tactile elements, then tactile display functionality is achieved, but the device becomes expensive, fragile, slow, and limited in the number of moveable elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a static array of tactile elements with RFID tags instead of multiple moveable piezo actuators. Each position in the array has a fixed tactile element that can be selectively activated, copying the functionality of moveable elements without requiring physical movement mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the movement function from the tactile elements themselves and replaces it with a static array controlled by RFID activation. Instead of moving parts, the system uses selective activation of fixed elements, removing the need for piezo actuators, motors, and other movement mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If piezo electric actuators are used, then tactile elements can be moved, but unsafe voltages are required to actuate them
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the piezo electric actuation system with an RFID-based electromagnetic field system. Instead of using high-voltage electrical actuation of piezo materials, the system uses low-power RFID electromagnetic fields to activate tactile elements, substituting a safer electromagnetic mechanism for a dangerous electrical one.
3Productivity
If piezo electric actuators are used, then tactile display is achieved, but annual maintenance and cleaning by technicians is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent describes a static array system with no moving parts that requires no maintenance. The RFID tags and tactile elements are permanently attached and require no cleaning or servicing, making the system self-maintaining and eliminating the need for technician intervention.
4Quantity of substance
If piezo electric actuators are used, then tactile elements can be moved, but the number of moveable tactile elements is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the tactile display into a static array of discrete positions, each with its own RFID tag and tactile element. This segmentation allows for a large number of elements to be arranged in a compact grid, exceeding the practical limits of moveable element systems while keeping each element simple and independent.
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 flexible and efficient modification of tactile elements, reducing maintenance needs and improving display capabilities while ensuring safe and efficient operation.
Implementation Method 1
a RFID sensor and/or coil may be located in a tactile display itself, and/or a RFID tag or chip may be embedded or attached to a capture plate assembly or graphics adapter
Data Source
AI summary
An adapter for a tactile display is disclosed. The adapter can be used with a tactile display, such as a display that presents braille characters, to change or modify what is presented to a user. In some embodiments, the braille dots which make up a braille character can be made smaller or larger; spaced closer together or further apart; have a different shape; and/or an image or non-braille characters can be presented to a user of the tactile display using the disclosed adapter.