Ultrasonic Tactile Interface for VR Motion Freedom
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional immersive virtual reality and augmented reality systems lack tactile effects, restricting user motion and being uncomfortable, and integrating tactile sensations with other sensory forms is complex.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for generating and managing tactile commands, including a computing subsystem with a tactile interface subsystem using ultrasonic transducers for mid-air tactile sensation, enabling users to interact with virtual objects and dynamically updating tactile features based on user actions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional wearable tactile devices are used, then tactile effects can be provided, but user motion is restricted and comfort is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical contact-based tactile feedback systems with acoustic radiation pressure fields generated by ultrasonic transducers. This substitution eliminates the need for physical contact between the user and tactile actuators, allowing users to move freely without restriction while still receiving tactile sensations through mid-air acoustic fields.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an acoustic field as an intermediary between the ultrasonic transducers and the user's skin. This acoustic radiation pressure mediator transmits tactile forces through the air without requiring direct mechanical contact, thereby maintaining tactile effect provision while preserving user motion freedom and comfort.
2Reliability
If tactile effects are integrated into immersive environments, then user immersion is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal tactile feedback system using ultrasonic transducers that can be integrated into various immersive environments (VR, AR, mixed reality) without requiring environment-specific hardware. The acoustic radiation pressure mechanism provides a unified approach to tactile feedback across different immersive platforms, reducing overall system integration complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
By replacing complex mechanical tactile actuator systems with acoustic radiation pressure fields, the patent simplifies the integration process into immersive environments. The ultrasonic transducers can be positioned flexibly and controlled through software, reducing the mechanical complexity associated with traditional wearable or contact-based tactile devices.
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
Enables users to experience tactile sensations in combination with visual and audio stimulation, allowing intuitive application of tactile effects to digital objects and reducing computational load and latency.
Implementation Method 1
A system and method for generating and managing tactile commands, including a computing subsystem with a tactile interface subsystem using ultrasonic transducers for mid-air tactile sensation
Data Source
AI summary
A system for the generation and management of tactile sensation includes a computing subsystem. A method for the generation and management of tactile sensation includes receiving a set of inputs and processing the set of inputs. Additionally or alternatively, the method 200 can include: communicating tactile commands to a tactile interface system; operating the tactile interface system based on the tactile commands; and/or performing any other suitable processes.