Vibration Source Localization for Multi-Frequency Haptic Waveforms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vibration distribution methods fail to accurately represent a vibration source with a complex vibration waveform including multiple frequencies and localize vibrations on a two-dimensional or three-dimensional plane, limiting the realism of bodily sensations.
Innovation Solution
A vibration distribution control device that calculates perceived intensity from a vibration waveform and distributes it to multiple vibrators based on the orientation and arrangement of the vibration source, using a distribution unit and signal output unit to control the vibrators, allowing for the generation of a vibration source at a specific position with a predetermined waveform.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a strength difference between vibrations is used to enable a user to perceive the presence of a vibration source (phantom sensation method), then a vibration source can be localized, but the method cannot represent a vibration waveform including a plurality of frequencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the vibration waveform into multiple frequency components using Fourier transform. Each frequency component is processed separately through the phantom sensation calculation, and the results are synthesized to produce the final multi-frequency vibration pattern. This segmentation allows the system to handle complex waveforms while maintaining localization accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the vibration waveform from time domain to frequency domain using Fourier transform, analyzing each frequency component independently. By changing the representation parameters from time-based to frequency-based, the system can accurately process multi-frequency waveforms while preserving spatial localization information through the phantom sensation calculation.
2Measurement precision
If a plurality of vibrators are brought into contact with the body and vibrations are localized on a straight line connecting the vibrators, then vibration localization is achieved, but vibrations cannot be localized on a two dimensional or three dimensional plane outside the vibrators
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the localization from one-dimensional (straight line between vibrators) to two-dimensional and three-dimensional space by incorporating angular information and distance calculations. The system calculates phantom sensation based on the angular position of each vibrator relative to the perceived vibration source, enabling localization on planes and in three-dimensional space around the user's body.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent assigns different vibration strengths to each vibrator based on its specific angular position and distance from the perceived vibration source. Each vibrator contributes differently to the overall phantom sensation, with the strength distribution reflecting the local spatial relationship between the vibrator and the virtual vibration source position.
3Reliability
If multiple vibrators are used to generate a vibration source at a specific position, then the realism of bodily sensations can be improved, but the complexity of controlling and distributing vibrations to each vibrator increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an iterative optimization process that calculates the perceived vibration pattern from multiple vibrators and compares it with the desired target pattern. The system adjusts the vibration strength of each vibrator based on the difference between actual and desired perceptions, repeating this process until convergence. This feedback mechanism automates the complex distribution calculation, reducing control complexity while maintaining high realism.
Data Source
AI summary
A vibration distribution control device configured to generate a vibration source being present at a predetermined position by using a plurality of vibrators includes: a calculator configured to calculate a perceived intensity from a vibration waveform of the vibration source; a distributor configured to distribute the perceived intensity of each of the plurality of vibrators in accordance with an azimuth of the vibration source and arrangement positions of the plurality of vibrators; and signal output processor circuitry configured to control and output vibrations of the plurality of vibrators based on information distributed by the distribution distributor.