Single-Bracket Support for Multi-Directional Deflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Input devices that provide force sensing and haptic feedback face challenges in designing an input surface that can deflect in multiple orthogonal directions, combining vertical compression from input forces with horizontal movement for haptic feedback.
Innovation Solution
A support structure with fixed surfaces mounted to a housing, a dynamic surface on a sensor layer, and deformable segments that cantilever from the fixed surfaces, allowing vertical deflection for force sensing and horizontal deflection for haptic feedback, formed from a single continuous layer of spring metal for robust and cost-effective manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single input surface is used for both force sensing and haptic feedback, then the device can detect input forces and provide feedback, but the surface must deflect in multiple orthogonal directions which complicates the support structure design
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into multiple discrete deformable segments (first segments for vertical deflection, second segments for horizontal deflection) that can independently deflect in different directions. This segmentation allows each segment to be optimized for its specific deflection direction while collectively enabling multi-directional movement of the input surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-plane deflection structure to a multi-dimensional deflection system by adding segments that deflect in orthogonal directions (vertical and horizontal). This dimensional expansion allows the input surface to move in multiple directions simultaneously, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity.
2Reliability
If separate structures are used for vertical deflection (force sensing) and horizontal deflection (haptic feedback), then each function can be optimized, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the previously separate vertical and horizontal deflection structures into a single integrated support structure. The first and second deformable segments are combined in one continuous structure that provides both vertical deflection for force sensing and horizontal deflection for haptic feedback, reducing component count while maintaining functional optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated support structure performs multiple functions simultaneously: it supports vertical deflection for force sensing, horizontal deflection for haptic feedback, and provides structural mounting for the sensor layer. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate components are assembled to achieve multi-directional deflection, then the desired functionality is achieved, but the manufacturing process becomes less streamlined and more costly
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is designed as a single integrated component that can be manufactured as one piece, eliminating the need for assembling multiple separate components. This merging of functions into a single manufacturable unit streamlines the production process and reduces assembly steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes spring metal material properties and geometric parameter variations in the deformable segments to achieve the required multi-directional deflection characteristics. By optimizing the geometry and material parameters of a single integrated structure, the design achieves complex functionality without complex manufacturing.
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 the input device to concurrently detect input forces and provide haptic feedback, enhancing user experience with a low-cost, streamlined manufacturing process by integrating vertical and horizontal deflection capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
The plurality of first deformable segments is configured to deflect in a first direction responsive to an input force exerted on the sensor layer, where the input force is orthogonal to an input surface of the input device
Implementation Method 2
The plurality of second deformable segments is configured to deflect in one or more second directions responsive to shear forces exerted on the dynamic surface, where the shear forces are parallel to the input surface
Data Source
AI summary
The present implementations relate to a support structure for an input device that supports deflection of an input surface responsive to input forces exerted thereon and vibration of the input surface responsive to haptic feedback generated by a haptic actuator. The support structure includes one or more fixed structures mounted to a housing and a dynamic surface mounted to a sensor layer of the input device. A number of first deformable segments cantilever from the one or more fixed surfaces and deflect in a vertical direction when an input force is exerted on the sensor layer, where the input force is orthogonal to the input surface. A number of second deformable segments connect the plurality of first deformable segments to the dynamic surface and deflect in a horizontal direction when shear forces are exerted on the dynamic surface, where the shear forces are parallel to the input surface.