Tactile Actuator Temperature Feedback for Burn-Safe Vibration Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tactile devices used in compact electronic devices generate excessive heat, leading to a risk of low temperature burns when the actuator temperature exceeds human body temperature, posing a safety concern.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a temperature sensor and control circuit in the electronic device to monitor and restrict the operation of the actuator based on detected temperature, preventing overheating and reducing heat transfer to the user's skin.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the actuator is operated for a long time to generate traction illusion, then the tactile feedback function is improved, but the operating temperature increases causing heat generation and potential low temperature burns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control mechanism where a temperature sensor continuously monitors the actuator's operating temperature and feeds this information back to the control unit. The control unit then adjusts the actuator's operation accordingly, reducing or stopping operation when temperature thresholds are exceeded, thus preventing heat-related damage while maintaining tactile feedback functionality during normal operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic operation of the actuator rather than continuous operation. The control unit intermittently operates the actuator based on temperature conditions, allowing cooling periods between operation cycles. This periodic action reduces cumulative heat generation while still providing effective tactile feedback when needed
2Power
If the actuator operates at high power to generate strong vibration, then the traction illusion effect is improved, but the heat generation increases leading to safety concerns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of the actuator's power output based on real-time temperature conditions. The control unit adjusts the driving voltage or current to the actuator dynamically, reducing power when temperature increases and maintaining high power only when temperature is within safe ranges. This dynamic adjustment optimizes vibration strength while controlling heat generation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes operational parameters (such as driving voltage, current, or duty cycle) of the actuator based on temperature feedback. When temperature exceeds predetermined thresholds, the control unit modifies these parameters to reduce power consumption and heat generation, thereby maintaining safety while preserving tactile feedback effectiveness within acceptable parameters
3Duration of action of moving object
If continuous operation of the actuator is maintained, then the user experience is improved, but the risk of low temperature burn increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary protective action by continuously monitoring temperature and taking preventive measures before dangerous heat accumulation occurs. The control unit detects temperature trends and preemptively reduces or stops actuator operation when temperature approaches unsafe thresholds, preventing low temperature burns before they can occur while minimizing interruption to continuous operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent provides beforehand cushioning against heat damage by implementing temperature monitoring and control mechanisms that prevent excessive heat accumulation. The system prepares for potential overheating by having control logic ready to reduce power or stop operation, cushioning against the harmful effects of continuous operation before they manifest as actual damage or burns
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 solution effectively suppresses actuator heat generation, preventing low temperature burns by ensuring the operating temperature remains below hazardous levels, thus ensuring user safety during prolonged device use.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator installed inside the housing and configured to generate vibration in response to an application of a driving voltage
Implementation Method 2
an actuator installed inside the housing and configured to generate vibration in response to an application of a driving voltage
Implementation Method 3
a temperature sensor that detects an operating temperature caused by the actuator
Implementation Method 4
a temperature sensor that detects an operating temperature caused by the actuator
Implementation Method 5
the control circuit restricts an operation of the actuator, based on the operating temperature detected by the temperature sensor
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes: a housing; an actuator installed inside the housing and configured to generate vibration in response to an application of a driving voltage; a temperature sensor configured to detect an operating temperature caused by the actuator; and a control circuit configured to apply the driving voltage to the actuator to drive the actuator, thereby generating a traction illusion, where the control circuit restricts an operation of the actuator, based on the operating temperature detected by the temperature sensor.