Synchronized Vibration Actuators for Directional Haptic Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vibration devices lack the ability to modify vibration magnitude for a given frequency and direction, providing limited force sensations due to uncoupled actuators and lack of synchronization, which restricts the range of haptic feedback in applications like gaming and simulation.
Innovation Solution
The use of synchronously vibrated linear motion actuators with controlled amplitude and phase to generate a wide range of force sensations by aligning unit vectors with the desired force direction, allowing for vector summation of forces from multiple actuators to create complex vibration patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple vibration actuators are used to generate a range of sensations, then the variety of force sensations is improved, but the synchronization of vibration waveforms and control of phase difference deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the vibration control into independent channels, with each actuator having its own waveform generator and controller. This segmentation allows individual control of each actuator's vibration characteristics while maintaining overall synchronization through a central controller that coordinates phase relationships between actuators.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where sensors detect the actual vibration output of each actuator and feed this information back to the controller. The controller then adjusts the drive signals to maintain precise synchronization and phase relationships, compensating for variations in actuator performance and ensuring consistent force sensation generation.
2Ease of manufacture
If rotary motors with eccentric mass are used, then the cost is reduced, but the ability to modify vibration magnitude for a given frequency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic control of the vibration actuators, allowing real-time adjustment of vibration magnitude and frequency characteristics. By dynamically modulating the drive signals to the actuators, the system can change the magnitude of vibration forces independently of the base frequency, enabling adaptable haptic feedback that responds to varying operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters of the vibration actuators by varying the amplitude and phase of drive signals while maintaining the base frequency. This parameter modulation allows the same actuator to produce different vibration magnitudes and force sensations, providing versatility without requiring multiple actuators with different mechanical configurations.
3Weight of moving object
If small motors are used, then the device size is reduced, but the magnitude of force and response time deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines multiple small vibration actuators into a unified haptic feedback system where their forces are vectorially summed to produce the desired total force. By synchronizing the actuators and controlling their phase relationships, the system achieves the force magnitude of larger actuators while maintaining the compact size advantage of smaller units. The combined effect of multiple actuators provides both size reduction and sufficient force output.
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 approach enables the generation of varied force sensations, including low-frequency and directional feedback, enhancing the realism of haptic experiences in applications such as gaming and simulation by synchronizing the vibration of multiple actuators to achieve desired force vectors.
Implementation Method 1
the linear motion vibration actuators each include a moving magnet and a stationary electromagnetic coil
Implementation Method 2
In many existing devices vibrations are generated through rotary motors with an eccentric mass
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to synchronized vibration devices that can provide haptic feedback to a user. A wide variety of actuator types may be employed to provide synchronized vibration, including linear actuators, rotary actuators, rotating eccentric mass actuators, and rocking mass actuators. A controller may send signals to one or more driver circuits for directing operation of the actuators. The controller may provide direction and amplitude control, vibration control, and frequency control to direct the haptic experience. Parameters such as frequency, phase, amplitude, duration, and direction can be programmed or input as different patterns suitable for use in gaming, virtual reality and real-world situations.