17855236. Reluctance Haptic Engine for an Electronic Device simplified abstract (Apple Inc.)
Contents
Reluctance Haptic Engine for an Electronic Device
Organization Name
Inventor(s)
Denis G. Chen of San Jose CA (US)
Timothy D. Koch of San Jose CA (US)
Reluctance Haptic Engine for an Electronic Device - A simplified explanation of the abstract
This abstract first appeared for US patent application 17855236 titled 'Reluctance Haptic Engine for an Electronic Device
Simplified Explanation
The abstract describes a reluctance haptic engine for an electronic device. Here is a simplified explanation of the abstract:
- The reluctance haptic engine consists of a core, an attractor plate, and a mechanical suspension.
- The core and/or the attractor plate can be connected to an input structure, such as a button cap, trackpad cover, or touchscreen cover.
- When not in use, flexible support members maintain a gap between the core and the attractor plate.
- By applying an electrical current to one or more conduction loops of the core, the reluctance haptic engine can be activated to provide a haptic output.
- The electrical current generates a magnetic flux that creates a reluctance force, pulling the attractor and the core together.
- This movement of the input structure produces a haptic output.
Potential applications of this technology:
- Mobile devices: The reluctance haptic engine can be used in smartphones and tablets to provide tactile feedback when interacting with touchscreens or buttons.
- Gaming consoles: The technology can enhance the gaming experience by providing haptic feedback during gameplay.
- Virtual reality: Incorporating the reluctance haptic engine into VR devices can provide users with a more immersive experience by adding tactile sensations.
Problems solved by this technology:
- Lack of tactile feedback: Many electronic devices rely solely on visual or auditory feedback, but the reluctance haptic engine solves this problem by providing physical feedback through movement.
- Limited user interaction: The technology allows users to have a more engaging and interactive experience with electronic devices by adding haptic feedback.
Benefits of this technology:
- Enhanced user experience: The haptic output provided by the reluctance haptic engine improves the overall user experience by adding a tactile dimension to interactions with electronic devices.
- Increased accessibility: The haptic feedback can benefit individuals with visual impairments or those who prefer physical feedback when using electronic devices.
- Versatile application: The technology can be integrated into various electronic devices, making it adaptable to different industries and use cases.
Original Abstract Submitted
A reluctance haptic engine for an electronic device includes a core, an attractor plate, and mechanical suspension. The core and/or the attractor plate may be coupled to an input structure, such as a button cap, a trackpad cover, or a touchscreen cover. In an unactuated configuration, flexible support members maintain a gap between the core and the attractor plate. An electrical current may be applied to one or more conduction loops of the core to actuate the reluctance haptic engine and provide a haptic output by moving the input structure. The electrical current may cause a magnetic flux that results in a reluctance force that pulls the attractor and the core together and causes the input structure to move to produce a haptic output.
