Synchronized Sound and Vibration Control for Immersive Haptics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional information processing systems, such as game apparatus, can only impart monotonous vibrations to users, lacking the ability to create unconventional vibration experiences.
Innovation Solution
An information processing system that includes sound source position setting, sound control, and vibration control means to generate synchronized sound and vibration signals, allowing the user to perceive vibrations as originating from a localized sound source, which can shift and change intensity, expanding the perceived vibration source area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional vibration methods are used, then the device structure is simple, but the vibration experience is monotonous and lacks variety
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines sound output and vibration output into a unified control system. The control section simultaneously manages both sound signals from speakers and vibration signals from vibrators, coordinating them to produce integrated sensory experiences. This merging allows the system to create complex vibration patterns without proportionally increasing hardware complexity, as the control logic is integrated rather than separate.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic vibration control where the vibration characteristics (frequency, intensity, pattern) change in real-time based on game events, sound localization position, and user interaction. The control section continuously adjusts vibration parameters rather than using fixed patterns, enabling diverse vibration experiences from a single vibrator through dynamic parameter modification.
2Area of stationary object
If vibration sources are limited to physical vibrator positions, then the device structure is simple, but the perceived vibration source area is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses sound as an intermediary to extend the perceived vibration source area. By coordinating sound localization (through speaker output and head-related transfer functions) with vibration output, the system creates the perception that vibrations originate from spatial locations beyond the physical vibrator positions. The sound field acts as a mediator that maps virtual vibration sources to actual vibrator activations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the need for multiple physical vibrators distributed throughout the device with a single or few vibrators controlled through acoustic-field-based positioning. Instead of mechanically distributing vibration sources across the device structure, the system uses sound field processing and signal coordination to create virtual vibration sources at arbitrary positions, substituting mechanical complexity with acoustic processing.
3Adaptability or versatility
If vibrations are generated without sound coordination, then the system is simpler, but the immersive experience is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback loops where the control section continuously monitors sound localization position and adjusts vibration characteristics accordingly. The system processes the relationship between sound source position, head orientation, and expected vibration perception, then feeds this information back to modulate vibrator output in real-time. This feedback mechanism coordinates auditory and tactile senses to create unified immersive experiences.
Solution Approach 2:
The control section serves multiple functions simultaneously: it processes sound output signals, calculates sound localization positions using head-related transfer functions, determines appropriate vibration patterns, and coordinates both output channels. This multi-functionality is achieved through a unified control architecture that handles both audio and haptic processing, reducing overall system complexity despite the sophisticated coordination required.
Data Source
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AI summary
Sound source position setting means sets a sound source localization position indicating a position where a sound source is localized. Sound control means generates a sound signal for localizing the sound source at the set sound source localization position, and outputs the generated sound signal. Vibration control means generates a vibration signal for, in conjunction with the sound source localization position, vibrating a vibration section for imparting a vibration to a user, and outputs the generated vibration signal.