Rotational Weight Distribution Haptic Module for Directional Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current haptic modules in controllers are limited in providing directional feedback due to their inability to alter the weight distribution effectively, resulting in inadequate immersion and accessibility in multimedia entertainment systems.
Innovation Solution
A haptic module with a weighted component that is rotationally movable relative to the controller, allowing it to shift its center of mass in response to trigger events, enabling directional haptic feedback through adjustments in weight distribution, such as leaning or jerking sensations, by rotating between 0 and 360 degrees.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a vibration motor with small oscillating masses is used, then the haptic module can operate at high frequencies to produce rumble vibration, but the range of frequencies is limited and the level of controller feedback is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the weight distribution of the haptic module adjustable rather than fixed. The weighted component can be rotated to different positions, dynamically changing the center of mass location. This allows the same haptic module to produce different types of haptic feedback (rumble, lean, jerk, impact) by altering its weight distribution in real-time, thereby expanding the versatility while maintaining operational flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of weight distribution by rotating the weighted component to different angular positions. By varying the position of the weighted component (0-360 degrees), the system alters the effective mass distribution, which changes the haptic characteristics. This parameter change enables a single vibration motor to achieve multiple haptic feedback types that would traditionally require different motor designs
2Adaptability or versatility
If the weighted component is rotated to provide directional haptic feedback, then various types of directional feedback can be achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves universality by designing a single weighted component that can perform multiple haptic functions through rotational positioning. The same component provides rumble, lean, jerk, and impact effects depending on its angular position and movement characteristics. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple separate haptic actuators, thereby managing device complexity while maximizing adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The haptic module is segmented into distinct functional elements: the vibration motor, the weighted component, and the connection mechanism. This segmentation allows each element to be optimized independently - the motor provides rotational force, the weighted component provides mass distribution, and the connection allows controlled movement. This modular segmentation simplifies the overall design while enabling complex haptic behaviors
3Adaptability or versatility
If the weighted component rotates between 0 and 360 degrees, then wide variety of directional feedback can be provided, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action by rotating the weighted component to specific positions and holding it there for the duration of the haptic feedback event. Rather than continuous rotation, the system moves the weighted component to the required angular position, maintains it there to provide sustained directional feedback (such as lean effects), and only rotates it again when the next haptic event requires a different position. This periodic positioning significantly reduces energy consumption compared to continuous rotation while maintaining full directional capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-calculating and positioning the weighted component to the optimal angular position before the haptic feedback event begins. The controller receives input data, determines the required haptic feedback type and direction, and rotates the weighted component to the appropriate position in advance. This preliminary positioning allows the haptic feedback to commence immediately at the correct orientation without requiring continuous adjustment during the feedback event, thereby conserving energy
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 solution provides a wide range of directional haptic feedback types, enhancing user experience by simulating events in multimedia entertainment systems, such as video games, with improved immersion and accessibility, while conserving energy and maintaining user comfort across various orientations.
Implementation Method 1
the position of the weighted component significantly affects the position of the centre of mass of the controller, therefore adjusting the position of the weighted component allows the controller to provide directional haptic feedback to a user
Implementation Method 2
there is a resultant torque due to gravity acting on the controller
Implementation Method 3
a jerking sensation when the weighted component is rapidly decelerated to provide a directional impact effect on the controller
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A controller for a multimedia entertainment system is provided. The controller comprises a weighted component connected to the controller, wherein the weighted component is rotationally movable relative to the controller. The controller is configured to rotate the weighted component from a start position to an end position to shift the centre of mass of the controller in response to a trigger event; wherein the weighted component stops moving at the end position. This movement of the weighted component provides directional haptic feedback to a user of the controller.