Shape Memory Alloy Haptic Actuator with Interlocking Slider
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing input devices, such as proximity sensor devices, lack effective haptic feedback mechanisms that provide intuitive and durable actuation, leading to user interface limitations in electronic systems.
Innovation Solution
A haptic actuator is designed with a slider and base having interlocking sliding features, a shape memory alloy, and ohmic contacts, where the application of current to the alloy causes contraction, displacing the slider relative to the base, and a spring element provides return force, enhancing usability and durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional haptic feedback mechanisms are used in input devices, then basic tactile feedback is provided, but the feedback lacks intuitiveness and durability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical haptic feedback mechanisms with a shape memory alloy-based actuation system. The shape memory alloy element undergoes phase transformation under electrical stimulation to produce haptic feedback, eliminating complex mechanical components and improving both durability and intuitiveness of the feedback mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes phase transformation parameters of the shape memory alloy element to achieve haptic feedback. By controlling temperature and electrical stimulus parameters, the alloy transitions between austenite and martensite phases, producing controlled displacement and force for intuitive haptic response while maintaining system durability.
2Ease of operation
If shape memory alloy is used for haptic actuation, then effective displacement and return mechanisms are enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the haptic actuator into distinct functional segments: the shape memory alloy element for actuation, the slider for displacement, the spring element for return force, and the base for support. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, improving usability while managing complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a spring element as an intermediary component between the shape memory alloy and the base. This spring element provides the return force that restores the slider to its initial position after actuation, enabling complete haptic feedback cycles without requiring complex control mechanisms, thus improving usability while keeping the system relatively simple.
3Manufacturing precision
If interlocking sliding features are implemented, then displacement precision is improved, but manufacturing difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric interlocking sliding features between the slider and base components. The sliding features have specific geometric profiles that guide precise displacement while accommodating the bidirectional motion requirements. This asymmetric design achieves high displacement precision through geometric constraints rather than requiring ultra-precise manufacturing tolerances, balancing precision with manufacturability.
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 haptic actuator provides improved user feedback and durability by enabling effective displacement and return mechanisms, enhancing the usability of input devices in electronic systems.
Implementation Method 1
a shape memory alloy disposed between the first engagement surface and the second engagement surface; and a pair of ohmic contacts in direct contact with the shape memory alloy. The shape memory alloy may contract and causes displacement of the slider relative to the base from a first position to a second position in response to a current applied to the shape memory alloy through the pair of ohmic contacts.
Implementation Method 2
a pair of ohmic contacts in direct contact with the shape memory alloy. The shape memory alloy may contract and causes displacement of the slider relative to the base from a first position to a second position in response to a current applied to the shape memory alloy through the pair of ohmic contacts.
Implementation Method 3
a spring element configured to engage with the base and the slider and provide a return force biasing the slider relative to the base toward the first position.
Data Source
AI summary
A haptic actuator and method for manufacturing the same. The haptic actuator may include a slider having first interlocking sliding features and a first engagement surface; and a base having second interlocking sliding features and a second engagement surface. The second interlocking sliding features may be configured to engage with the first interlocking sliding features. The haptic actuator may also include a shape memory alloy disposed between the first engagement surface and the second engagement surface; and a pair of ohmic contacts disposed through the base and are in direct contact with the shape memory alloy. The shape memory alloy may contract and causes displacement of the slider relative to the base from a first position to a second position in response to a current applied to the shape memory alloy through the pair of ohmic contacts.