Handheld Tactile Simulator with Recoil Actuation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional motion picture viewing experiences lack effective tactile simulation, particularly in simulating the sensation of weapon firing, which is not adequately addressed by existing technologies that focus mainly on odor, scent, or limited haptic feedback.

Innovation Solution

A tactile simulation system comprising a handgrip section, a recoil section, and a controller that generates vibrations and recoil simulations, utilizing an actuator, wheel, and piston mechanism to replicate the sensation of gun recoil, allowing for a more immersive experience.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If conventional motion picture viewing is used, then the viewing experience is simple and easy to implement, but the user engagement and immersion are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveviewing experience simplicityVSAvoiduser engagement
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple haptic feedback mechanisms (vibration motors, actuators, tactile elements) with the motion picture viewing system to create a multi-sensory experience. The handgrip section with vibration motors and the recoil section with actuators work together with the visual content to enhance user engagement while maintaining ease of use through automated synchronization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The controller serves as an intermediary that receives signals from the motion picture system and translates them into appropriate haptic feedback responses. It coordinates the activation of vibration motors, actuators, and tactile elements based on the timing and intensity of events in the motion picture, bridging the gap between visual stimulation and tactile response.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If tactile simulation devices are added to enhance immersion, then user engagement improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser engagementVSAvoidsystem structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The tactile simulation system is divided into distinct modular sections: a handgrip section containing vibration motors, and a separate recoil section with actuators and tactile elements. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while being controlled by a central controller, managing complexity through modularity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The controller serves multiple functions by managing both the vibration motors in the handgrip section and the actuators in the recoil section. It processes signals from the motion picture system and coordinates multiple haptic feedback mechanisms, reducing overall system complexity through a centralized control architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Manufacturing precision

If recoil simulation mechanism is implemented, then realism of weapon firing sensation improves, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverecoil simulation accuracyVSAvoiddevice assembly
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical recoil mechanisms with electromagnetic actuators that can be controlled electronically. This substitution allows for precise control of recoil timing and intensity through electrical signals from the controller, achieving high manufacturing precision while simplifying the mechanical assembly compared to traditional spring-loaded or weight-based recoil systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Enhances user engagement by providing a realistic recoil effect and vibrations synchronized with motion picture content, offering a more immersive sensory experience beyond traditional audio-visual stimulation.

Implementation Method 1

The handgrip section comprises at least one vibration motor configured to generate one or more vibrations

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic force: Lorentz Force

Implementation Method 2

The recoil section comprises an actuator, a wheel, and a piston section

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic actuation: Electromagnetic Propulsion

Data Source

PatentUS11020656B2Handheld tactile simulator system for enhancing the motion picture viewing experience
Publication Date: 2021.06.01 ROEHRIG JOSHUA
  • US11020656B2 patent drawing
  • US11020656B2 patent drawing
  • US11020656B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A tactile simulation system according to the present invention configured to be used by a subject watching a motion picture. The tactile simulation system comprises a handgrip section, a recoil section, and a controller. The handgrip section configured to generate one or more vibration experienced by the subject holding the handgrip section. The recoil section generates one or more recoil simulation. The recoil section is removably attached to the handgrip section. Further, the controller is operably connected to the handgrip section and the recoil section. The controller is configured to operate the handgrip section and the recoil section based on the motion picture.