Rotary Haptic Torque Control for Smooth Feedback Transitions

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Solution Overview

Problem

Haptic feedback input devices lack the ability to smoothly transition torque patterns based on rotation direction and speed, leading to potential operator discomfort due to unexpected torque fluctuations.

Innovation Solution

An operating device with a control unit that adjusts braking and rotational torque patterns over time, using a time change adjustment unit to ensure constant torque changes per reference interval, and incorporates a magnetic field generation unit for controlled braking torque, allowing for varied haptic feedbacks without sudden discomfort.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the torque pattern is changed suddenly to provide varied haptic feedbacks, then the haptic feedback variety is improved, but the operator comfort deteriorates due to unexpected torque fluctuations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehaptic feedback varietyVSAvoidoperator discomfort
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the torque pattern changeable over time based on rotation direction and speed. The control unit dynamically adjusts the torque pattern according to the detected rotation state, allowing the haptic feedback to adapt to different operating conditions while maintaining smooth transitions to avoid operator discomfort.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes physical parameters (torque magnitude and pattern) based on rotation direction and speed. The control unit modifies torque parameters dynamically, creating varied haptic feedbacks for different rotation states while using time-based smoothing to prevent sudden parameter changes that would cause discomfort.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Force

If the braking torque is increased to provide stronger haptic feedback, then the haptic feedback intensity is improved, but the operator comfort deteriorates due to increased rotational resistance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebraking torqueVSAvoidoperator discomfort
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the braking torque dynamic by adjusting it according to rotation speed and direction. The control unit increases braking torque when needed for haptic feedback intensity while reducing it during normal operation, creating a dynamic balance between feedback intensity and operator comfort.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the braking torque parameter based on rotation conditions. The control unit modulates the braking torque magnitude according to detected rotation speed and direction, providing strong torque only when necessary for haptic feedback while maintaining comfort during continuous operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Force

If the rotational torque is increased to enhance haptic feedback, then the haptic feedback strength is improved, but the operator comfort deteriorates due to unexpected torque fluctuations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverotational torqueVSAvoidoperator discomfort
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making rotational torque adjustable based on rotation state. The control unit dynamically modifies rotational torque according to rotation direction and speed, enhancing haptic feedback when needed while preventing sudden fluctuations that would cause discomfort.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes rotational torque parameters dynamically based on detected rotation conditions. The control unit adjusts torque magnitude and pattern according to rotation speed and direction, providing enhanced haptic feedback while using time-based smoothing to prevent sudden parameter changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 device provides a range of haptic feedbacks by adjusting torque patterns according to rotation direction and speed, reducing operator discomfort by mitigating sudden torque changes and allowing for smooth transitions, thus enhancing user experience.

Implementation Method 1

a brake applying portion (40) configured to apply braking torque to the rotating body (12)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 2

a rotational torque applying portion (30) configured to apply rotational torque to the rotating body (12)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic torque: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS12013716B2Operating device
Publication Date: 2024.06.18 ALPS ALPINE CO LTD
  • US12013716B2 patent drawing
  • US12013716B2 patent drawing
  • US12013716B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In an operating device, a brake setting unit sets a target braking torque based on a braking torque pattern, and a rotational torque setting unit sets a target rotational torque based on a rotational torque pattern in accordance with information detected by a rotation detecting portion at reference time intervals. A control unit includes a time change adjustment unit. For at least one of the braking torque and the rotational torque, the time change adjustment unit changes the braking torque so that a current braking torque reaches the target braking torque and/or changes the rotational torque so that a current rotational torque reaches the target rotational torque in a predetermined time period greater than the reference time interval.