Temple-Mounted Haptic Headpiece for XR Feedback Without Audio Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Haptic feedback technologies are underutilized on body locations other than the human hand, leading to discomfort and interference with audio devices, and there is a need for improved haptic experiences in extended reality environments.
Innovation Solution
A haptic feedback apparatus and method utilizing left and right haptic actuators on a headpiece or headset that conforms to the neurocranium, providing coordinated haptic feedback via a haptic processor to enhance user experience in VR and AR sessions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If haptic actuators are placed on body locations other than the hand (such as head and neck), then haptic feedback can be provided in extended reality environments, but user discomfort and fatigue increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by placing haptic actuators at specific locations on the headpiece (temple regions) rather than distributing them broadly across the head and neck. This localized approach provides effective haptic feedback while minimizing discomfort and fatigue in sensitive areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (the headpiece structure with temple-mounted actuators) that mediates between the haptic feedback requirement and the user's comfort. This intermediary placement allows haptic transmission while avoiding direct contact with sensitive areas like the ears and neck.
2Adaptability or versatility
If haptic actuators are placed near audio devices on the head, then haptic feedback can be provided, but interference with audio devices occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetry by positioning haptic actuators on the temple regions of the headpiece, which are spatially separated from the audio devices typically located over the ears. This asymmetric placement strategy allows both haptic and audio functions to operate simultaneously without interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent resolves the spatial conflict by utilizing a different spatial dimension - placing actuators laterally on the temples rather than vertically near the ears. This dimensional separation in the lateral direction eliminates interference between haptic and audio components.
3Loss of information
If haptic actuators are placed on the head and neck, then tactile feedback can be provided, but the location is not effectively utilized and causes fatigue
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by selecting specific temple regions on the head as optimal locations for haptic actuators. This localized placement provides effective tactile feedback delivery while avoiding the fatigue and discomfort associated with broader placement across the head and neck, thereby extending user endurance.
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 interaction and immersion in VR and AR environments by reducing fatigue and discomfort, improving feedback confirmation, and minimizing interference with audio and spatial orientation devices.
Implementation Method 1
a haptic processor configured to process an input signal and activate the left and right haptic actuators according to the input signal
Data Source
AI summary
A haptic feedback apparatus is described. The haptic feedback apparatus comprises a headpiece that conforms to a neurocranium of a user and a haptic processor. The headpiece comprises left and right haptic actuators. The haptic processor is configured to process an input signal and activate the left and right haptic actuators according to the input signal. The left and right haptic actuators are located on the headpiece to abut the neurocranium of the user when the headpiece is worn by the user. The left and right haptic actuators provide haptic feedback to the user via the neurocranium upon activation by the haptic processor.