Variable-Resistance Trigger Actuation With Voice Coil Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional actuators in peripheral devices, such as game controllers, provide only constant counterforce or binary vibrations, failing to offer a variable and nuanced tactile feedback experience.
Innovation Solution
The use of a voice coil actuator (VCA) with a magnet and coil, coupled to a mechanical linkage, allows for the application of a variable amount of force or resistance based on current flow, enabling smooth and controllable tactile feedback by translating linear motion into rotational force on input components like triggers or buttons.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional actuators are used to provide counterforce to input components, then the input component can be actuated, but only constant counterforce or binary vibrations can be provided, limiting tactile feedback variety
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static constant counterforce actuators to dynamic variable counterforce actuators. The voice coil actuator continuously adjusts the magnitude of counterforce based on real-time control signals, enabling smooth transitions between different force levels and creating nuanced tactile feedback experiences that adapt to game conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by varying the electrical current supplied to the voice coil actuator, which directly changes the magnetic field strength and consequently the counterforce magnitude. This allows the system to provide a continuous range of tactile sensations from light vibrations to strong resistance forces, greatly expanding tactile feedback versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If voice coil actuator with mechanical linkage is used to translate linear motion to rotational force, then variable tactile feedback is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent partially applies mechanics substitution by replacing traditional rotary motors with voice coil actuators that use electromagnetic fields to generate linear motion. The mechanical linkage serves only to translate this linear motion to rotational force on the input component, simplifying the overall system by eliminating complex rotary actuation mechanisms while maintaining precise control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical linkage acts as an intermediary between the voice coil actuator and the input component. It efficiently converts the linear motion generated by the voice coil into rotational force needed to actuate triggers, buttons, or other input components, while maintaining a direct and simple mechanical connection that preserves control precision.
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
This solution provides a more immersive user experience by allowing for a wide range of tactile sensations, simulating various textures and actions in virtual environments with precise control over the force feedback, enhancing interaction fidelity in gaming and virtual reality applications.
Implementation Method 1
voice coil actuator (VCA) with a magnet and coil, allows for the application of a variable amount of force or resistance based on current flow
Implementation Method 2
mechanical linkage coupled to the input component and to at least a portion of the actuator, the mechanical linkage being configured to translate the substantially linear motion provided by the actuator to a rotary force applied to the input component
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed system may include a substructure configured to support various components, an actuator configured to provide substantially linear motion along a specified axis in response to an electrical input, an input component hingedly coupled to the substructure, where the input component is configured to receive input from a user, and a mechanical linkage coupled to the input component and to at least a portion of the actuator. The mechanical linkage may be configured to translate the substantially linear motion provided by the actuator to a rotary force applied to the input component via the mechanical linkage. Various other methods, systems, and computer-readable media are also disclosed.