Virtual Mass Jog Knob Haptics for Smooth Fly-By-Wire Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
In 'fly-by-wire' systems, the lack of haptic feedback makes it difficult for users to achieve smooth movements, as they do not feel the weight of the system they are controlling.
Innovation Solution
A virtual mass system that uses a printed circuit board (PCB) stator motor and a jog knob with a display, where the system simulates mass through haptic feedback, giving the user a feeling of heavier or lighter rotational inertia.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If a lightweight rotational control system is used in fly-by-wire systems, then device complexity and weight are reduced, but haptic feedback and sense of mass are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical mass-based inertia system with an electromagnetic system. A voice coil motor generates electromagnetic force to simulate rotational inertia, allowing a lightweight physical structure to provide heavy haptic feedback. The voice coil motor converts electrical signals to mechanical force, substituting electromagnetic action for mechanical mass.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the electromagnetic parameters (current, voltage, magnetic field strength) of the voice coil motor to adjust the simulated mass and haptic feedback characteristics. By varying these parameters in real-time based on motion detection, the system creates variable virtual mass effects without changing the physical weight of the control element.
2Ease of operation
If mechanical handwheel systems with high rotational inertia are used, then smooth movements and haptic feedback are achieved, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical inertia mechanisms with a simplified electromagnetic system. Instead of using heavy physical components to create rotational inertia, the system uses a voice coil motor to generate electromagnetic forces that simulate mass effects, significantly reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining smooth motion control.
Solution Approach 2:
The voice coil motor acts as an intermediary between the user's rotational input and the motor control system. It provides the haptic feedback interface that mediates the interaction, giving the user tactile sensation of mass and resistance without requiring actual mechanical mass in the control element.
3Extent of automation
If traditional motor-controlled systems are used, then automated control is achieved, but user feel and tactile feedback are removed
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback loop where motion sensors detect the rotational movement of the control element, and this information is used to generate appropriate haptic feedback through the voice coil motor. The system continuously monitors user input and provides real-time tactile feedback, maintaining the sense of user control while enabling automated motor operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The voice coil motor serves as a feedback intermediary that translates digital control signals back into tactile sensations for the user. It mediates between the automated motor control system and the user's tactile senses, providing haptic feedback that confirms user input and creates the feeling of directly controlling a physical 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
The system effectively simulates mass in a rotating element, enhancing user experience by providing haptic feedback that improves the smoothness and control of rotational movements.
Implementation Method 1
a voice coil motor, which is configured to generate an electromagnetic force that rotates the control element about a rotation axis
Implementation Method 2
a motion sensor, which is configured to detect an angular position and an angular velocity of the control element
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods of the inventive subject matter are directed to control systems that create virtual mass in a haptic feedback system. Embodiments include a jog knob coupled with a PCB stator motor such that the PCB stator motor can be controlled to give the jog knob a feeling of mass that is different from its actual mass. Thus, a system of the inventive subject matter can be configured to continue a rotation as if it has a higher mass than it actually has, resulting in smoother rotations that last longer. This functionality can be useful to, for example, remotely control a camera's movements while still giving a user the feel of a comparable mechanical system.