Surface Electrical Nerve Stimulation for Natural XR Haptics
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current haptic feedback technologies, such as vibrational motors and electrical nerve stimulation, are bulky, impede user movement, and provide an unnatural representation of touches in simulated environments, while implanted electrodes are impractical for conventional XR applications.
Innovation Solution
A non-invasive system using surface electrical nerve stimulation through skin surface electrodes to induce referred sensations at a second body area in response to actions in a simulated environment, mimicking natural sensations without direct stimulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional haptic feedback technologies (vibrational motors, force feedback exoskeletons, pneumatic bladder systems) are used, then haptic feedback can be delivered to users, but the devices become bulky, impede user movement, and provide an unnatural representation of touches
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical haptic feedback systems (vibrational motors, pneumatic bladders) with electrical nerve stimulation. Instead of using physical actuators that require bulky structures and impede movement, the system uses electrical signals delivered through surface electrodes to stimulate nerves and create natural tactile sensations, thereby eliminating the need for complex mechanical components while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of haptic feedback delivery from mechanical/physical to electrical. By transforming the stimulation modality from mechanical contact to electrical nerve stimulation, the system achieves natural sensation representation without the bulk and movement impediment of traditional mechanical devices
2Ease of operation
If electrical nerve stimulation is delivered directly to the location meant to feel the sensation, then haptic feedback can be provided, but it gets in the way of a user's movements and function
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces surface electrodes as intermediaries placed on the skin at locations remote from the target sensation area. These electrodes serve as mediators that deliver electrical stimulation to nerves, which then transmit signals to the brain creating the perception of sensation at a different location. This intermediary approach allows haptic feedback to be delivered without direct contact at the sensation target, preserving user movement freedom while avoiding discomfort
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of stimulating the nerve at the location where the user needs to feel the sensation (direct approach), the patent inverts the approach by stimulating the nerve at a remote location and using neural transmission to create the perception at the target area. This inversion allows the stimulation to occur where it causes minimal interference with movement while still achieving the desired haptic feedback effect
3Ease of manufacture
If implanted electrodes are used for electrical nerve stimulation, then natural sensation can be achieved, but it is not practical for conventional XR applications for people without limb loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable or removable surface electrodes that can be easily applied and removed without surgical implantation. These surface electrodes provide the necessary electrical stimulation for natural sensation in conventional XR applications without requiring the complex, permanent implantation procedures associated with implanted electrodes, thereby making the technology practical for general use
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses surface electrodes as non-invasive intermediaries that can be placed on the skin to deliver electrical stimulation. These surface electrodes serve as a practical alternative to implanted electrodes, providing the same functional capability (electrical nerve stimulation for natural sensation) without the complexity and invasiveness of implantation, thus enabling conventional XR applications
4Adaptability or versatility
If electrical nerve stimulation is used to provide haptic feedback, then an alternative to traditional haptic feedback is achieved, but it is often described as uncomfortable or causes paresthesia/numbness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses surface electrodes as intermediaries placed on the skin to deliver electrical stimulation remotely from the sensation target area. This intermediary approach allows the system to provide haptic feedback capability while avoiding direct stimulation at the sensation location, thereby reducing discomfort and paresthesia that are commonly associated with direct electrical nerve stimulation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the traditional approach by stimulating the nerve at a remote location rather than at the target sensation area. This inversion allows the electrical stimulation to occur where it causes minimal discomfort while still achieving the desired haptic feedback effect through neural transmission, thereby reducing the harmful effects of discomfort and paresthesia
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
Provides a more realistic and comfortable haptic feedback experience by stimulating nerves at a first location to create sensations at a second location, enhancing user interaction in XR environments without impeding movement.
Implementation Method 1
apply an electrical stimulation to a first area in a user's body to induce a second area in the user's body to experience a level of natural sensation
Data Source
AI summary
A system that can deliver haptic feedback by applying an electrical stimulation to a first area of a user's body to induce a second area of the user's body to experience a level of natural sensation in response to an action occurring in a simulated remote environment and an intensity of the action is described. The system includes a controller to set parameters for the electrical stimulation based on the action occurring in the simulated remote environment and an intensity of the action. The system also includes a signal generator to generate the electrical stimulation comprising the parameters. The system also includes a skin surface electrode placed at a first location on a user's body remote from a second location on the user's body to deliver the electrical stimulation with the parameters to a nerve at or near the first area of the user's body.