Wearable Haptic Actuators with Elastomer Decoupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional haptic feedback systems in wearables and consumer electronics provide a global, non-localized vibration that cannot be discerned by users as originating from specific locations on the device, limiting the ability to deliver localized notifications and feedback.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a wearable device with multiple actuators, such as Line Resonant Actuators (LRAs), embedded in a soft elastomeric substrate, which allows for independent vibration and mechanical decoupling to provide localized haptic feedback signals perceivable by the user.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a single bulky motor is used to provide haptic feedback, then the device can generate strong vibrations, but the haptic feedback is global and non-localized, reducing user perception precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single haptic feedback source into multiple independent actuators (first actuator and second actuator) positioned at different locations on the device. Each actuator can be independently controlled to provide localized haptic feedback at specific regions, transforming global vibration into spatially-resolved tactile signals that enhance user perception precision while maintaining adequate vibration strength through distributed actuation.
2Measurement precision
If multiple actuators are used to provide localized haptic feedback, then spatial resolution is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by assigning different functional characteristics to different parts of the device through strategically positioned actuators. The first actuator is positioned to provide haptic feedback at a first location while the second actuator provides feedback at a second location, allowing each actuator to be optimized for its specific regional function. This reduces overall system complexity compared to using many small actuators throughout, as only critical locations are instrumented.
3Measurement precision
If actuators are embedded in elastomer substrate, then localized vibration is achieved, but mechanical coupling between actuators increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the elastomer substrate as an intermediary material between the actuators and the device housing. This elastomer layer serves as a mechanical decoupling medium that isolates the vibrational pathways of adjacent actuators while still allowing each actuator to effectively transmit its localized vibration to the device surface. The elastomer's viscoelastic properties provide vibration damping and isolation, preventing mechanical coupling between actuators while maintaining structural integrity.
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 perception of haptic feedback by allowing distinct, localized vibrations to be felt at specific points on the device, enabling more nuanced notifications and feedback through increased spatial resolution and vibration frequency sensitivity.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of actuators within the wearable device case, each of which to vibrate independently or in combination
Implementation Method 2
an elastomer surrounding the sides of each of the plurality of actuators within the wearable device case to hold the actuators in position
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with disclosed embodiments, there are provided systems, methods, and apparatuses for implementing increased human perception of haptic feedback systems. For instance, there is disclosed in accordance with one embodiment there is wearable device, having therein: a wearable device case; a plurality of actuators within the wearable device case, each of which to vibrate independently or in combination; one or more pins attached to each of the plurality of actuators, one end of each of the plurality of pins affixed to the actuators extrudes beyond surface of the wearable device case and is exposed outside of the wearable device case; electrical interconnects from each of the plurality of actuators to internal semiconductor components of the wearable device. Other related embodiments are disclosed.