JP2015225520A - Pseudo force sensation generating device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide pseudo translational and rotational force sensation using acceleration generators that produce pseudo translational and rotational force sensation.SOLUTION: A pseudo force sensation generating device is provided, having a base and first through n-th acceleration generators fixed on the base. An i-th acceleration generator of the first through n-th acceleration generators is capable of producing pseudo force sensation in an i-th linear direction, where n represents an integer 3 or greater, and i represents an integer 1 through n. An i-th linear direction is a linear direction along an i-th side among mutually different first through n-th sides of a virtual polygon having no less than n sides, including first through n-th sides, on a single plane.

Description

  The present invention relates to a technique for causing a user to perceive a pseudo force sense, and more particularly, to a technique for perceiving a pseudo translational force sense and a rotational force sense.

  In Non-Patent Document 1, two actuators that perceive a force sense in a pseudo translational direction are arranged so that vibration directions are orthogonal to each other, so that a pseudo translational force sense with two degrees of freedom is perceived. It is described that can be.

Junichi Kyokumoto, “Traxion: Virtual Force Display Device”, WISS2013.

  However, there is no known method for causing a pseudo force sensation other than translation to be perceived using an apparatus for perceiving a pseudo translational force sense.

  An object of the present invention is to make a pseudo translational force sensation and a rotational force sensation perceived by using a device that senses a pseudo translational force sense.

  There is provided a simulated force sense generator having a base and first to nth acceleration generators fixed to the base. Each of the i-th acceleration generators included in the first to n-th acceleration generators can present a pseudo force sense in the i-th linear direction. However, n is an integer of 3 or more, i = 1,..., N, and the i-th linear direction is included in a virtual polygon having n or more sides on the same plane. It is a linear direction along the i-th side among the first to n-th sides different from each other.

  With the above configuration, it is possible to perceive a pseudo translational force sense and a rotational force sense using a device that senses a pseudo translational force sense.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the pseudo force generation apparatus according to the first embodiment. 2A is a plan view of the pseudo force sense generator of the first embodiment, FIG. 2B is a right side view of the pseudo force sense generator of the first embodiment, and FIG. 2C is a pseudo force sense of the first embodiment. It is a front view of a generator. FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the pseudo force sense generator according to the first embodiment. 4A and 4B are conceptual diagrams illustrating an acceleration generation device included in the pseudo force sense generation device of the first embodiment. 5A to 5D are diagrams for explaining control for the acceleration generating device to present a pseudo force sense. 6A and 6B are conceptual diagrams illustrating an acceleration generation device included in the pseudo force sense generation device of the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an acceleration generation device included in the pseudo force generation device of the first embodiment. 8A and 8B are diagrams exemplifying a change in position and acceleration in a case when control for presenting a pseudo translational force sense in the left direction in FIGS. 4A and 4B is performed. 8C and 8D are diagrams exemplifying a change in position and acceleration in the case when control for presenting a pseudo translational force sense in the right direction in FIGS. 4A and 4B is performed. It is the figure which illustrated the FFT analysis result of the acceleration which arose in the case. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the current reversal ratio and frequency and the perceived pseudo force intensity. FIG. 11A is a diagram for explaining control for perceiving a rotational force sense, and FIGS. 11B and 11C are diagrams for explaining control for perceiving a translational force sense (first embodiment). . FIG. 12A to FIG. 12C are diagrams for explaining the control for perceiving the rotational force sense by sequentially driving the pseudo force sense generating device. FIG. 13A to FIG. 13C are diagrams for explaining the control for perceiving the rotational force sense by sequentially driving the pseudo force sense generating device. FIG. 14A to FIG. 14C are diagrams for explaining the control for perceiving the rotational force sense by sequentially driving the pseudo force sense generating device. FIG. 15A is a diagram for explaining control for perceiving a rotational force sense, and FIGS. 15B and 15C are diagrams for explaining control for perceiving a translational force sense. FIG. 16A and FIG. 16B are diagrams for explaining the control for perceiving the sense of rotational force. FIG. 17A and FIG. 17B are diagrams for explaining the control for perceiving the translational force sense. FIG. 18A is a diagram for explaining control for perceiving a rotational force sense, and FIGS. 18B and 18C are diagrams for explaining control for perceiving a translational force sense.

[Overview]
An overview of the embodiment will be described.
The simulated force sense generator of each embodiment includes a base and first to nth acceleration generators fixed to the base (where n is an integer of 3 or more). The i-th acceleration generators (where i = 1,..., N) included in the first to n-th acceleration generators can each present a pseudo force sense in the i-th linear direction. is there. However, the above-mentioned i-th linear directions (where i = 1,..., N) are different from the first to the second different from each other included in a virtual polygon having n or more sides on the same plane. It is a linear direction along the i-th side among the n sides. In other words, the first to nth acceleration generating devices can each present a pseudo force sense in a linear direction along different first to nth sides included in the virtual polygon. is there. The “straight direction along the side α” means any direction on the straight line along the side α. Examples of “a straight line along the side α” include a straight line passing through the side α, a straight line parallel to the side α, and a straight line parallel to or substantially parallel to the side α. The “straight line along the side α” may or may not pass through the side α. Each i-th acceleration generating device is arranged along each i-th side of the above-mentioned virtual polygon, for example. It is desirable that each i-th side pass through each i-th acceleration generator, but if each i-th linear direction is a linear direction along the i-th side, any i-th side It does not have to pass through the acceleration generating device whose side is i. The virtual polygon is a convex polygon, for example. In addition, it is assumed that the user grasps the position of the center of gravity of the pseudo force sense generator of each embodiment or a portion near the position of the center of gravity. Further, when the base of the pseudo force sense generating device is held so as to be horizontal with the ground, the force sense can be perceived most clearly. However, even if the base of the simulated force sense generating device and the ground are not completely horizontal, a sufficient effect can be obtained as long as it is almost horizontal (substantially horizontal).

  Thus, the pseudo force sense generator is configured, and (1) which acceleration generator or combination of acceleration generators among the first to n-th acceleration generators is driven, and (2) the driven acceleration. Controls which direction of the pseudo force sense is to be presented to each of the generating devices (in which direction the pseudo force sense is presented in one of the two different linear directions along the side) By doing so, it is possible to present a pseudo translational force sense of two degrees of freedom and a pseudo rotational force sense of one degree of freedom. The “translational force sensation” means a force sensation in the traveling direction of the object that translates (ie, a linear force sensation), and the “rotational force sensation” refers to the force in the rotational direction of the object that rotates. It means sensation. “Pseudo force sensation” means that a force that seems to move in the direction of translation or rotation works even though the object (pseudo force sensation generator) does not actually translate or rotate. It means that a perception like that is generated.

  In order for the pseudo force sense generating device to present a force sense including a pseudo translation force sense, the synthesis (synthetic direction) of the pseudo force sense presenting directions presented by the first to nth acceleration generating devices is It is only necessary to be able to control the direction so as to include a linear component along a plane (same plane) where the virtual polygon is located. For example, if only one of the acceleration generators presents a pseudo force sensation in a linear direction, a force sensation including a translational force sensation in that direction can be presented. If a pseudo force sensation is presented in the direction, a force sensation including a translational force sensation in the composite direction can be presented. Here, n ≧ 3, and the first to nth acceleration generators can present a pseudo force sense in a linear direction along different sides included in the virtual polygon. Therefore, a translational force sense of two degrees of freedom can be presented as a whole. The composition of the direction of presentation of the pseudo force sense (composition direction) means a composite vector of vectors having the “size” of the pseudo force sense and the “direction” of the presentation direction. The “size” of the pseudo force sense is the size of the force sense perceived by humans, but the magnitude is the structure (eg, weight, center of gravity, natural frequency, etc.) and operation (eg, drive) of the acceleration generator. Frequency, inversion ratio, etc.).

  In order for the pseudo force generation device to present a force sense including a pseudo rotational force sense, the following may be performed. The virtual polygon has the first to mth vertices (where m ≧ n), and the {((j−1) mod m) +1} vertices among the first to mth vertices. And {(j mod m) +1} vertices are adjacent to each other (where j = 1,..., M). In other words, the vertices of the virtual polygon are called “first vertex”, “second vertex”,..., “Mth vertex” in the order along any rotation direction. Α mod β represents a remainder (remainder) obtained by dividing α by β. At this time, at least the k-th acceleration generation device among the first to n-th acceleration generation devices is {((k−1) mod m) +1} -th {(k mod m) +1} from the {((k−1) mod m) +1} apex. A pseudo force sense can be presented in a direction having a component toward the apex, and the p-th acceleration generating device is moved from the {((p−1) mod m) +1} apex to the {(p mod m) +1 }, It is possible to present a pseudo force sense in a direction having a component toward the vertex of k} (where k ≠ p and k, pε {1,..., N}). The direction in which these haptics are presented includes a tangential component along a certain rotation, and at least the kth acceleration generator and the pth acceleration generator present these haptics, thereby producing a pseudo haptic. A force sense including a rotational force sense of one degree of freedom can be presented as the entire generator.

  For example, when the virtual polygon is a triangle (m = 3), among the first to third vertices, the first vertex and the second vertex are adjacent, and the second vertex and the third vertex. Are adjacent to each other, and the third vertex and the first vertex are adjacent to each other. At this time, at least the first acceleration generation device presents a pseudo force sense in a direction having a component from the first vertex to the second vertex, and the second acceleration generation device starts from the second vertex. A pseudo force sense is presented in a direction having a component toward the top of 3. As a result, a force sense including a pseudo rotational force sense having a direction having a component from the first vertex to the second vertex and a direction having a component from the second vertex to the third vertex as a tangential direction. Can present.

  In particular, on a straight line passing through the {((k−1) mod m) +1} vertex and the {(k mod m) +1} vertex and the {((p−1) mod m) +1} If the center of gravity of the pseudo force sense device does not exist on a straight line passing through the vertex and the {(p mod m) +1} vertex, a rotational force sense with a small translational component can be presented. However, on the straight line passing through the {((k−1) mod m) +1} vertex and the {(k mod m) +1} vertex, or {((p−1) mod m) +1}. Even if the center of gravity of the pseudo force generation device exists only on one of the straight lines passing through the apex and the {(p mod m) +1} apex, a force sense including a pseudo rotational force sense can be obtained. It is possible to present. This is because either the k-th acceleration generator or the p-th acceleration generator can present a translational force sensation whose action line is deviated from the center of gravity of the pseudo force sensation generator.

In addition, since at least two acceleration generators sequentially present the force sense along the direction of rotation to be presented, it is possible to present a continuous sense of rotational force while suppressing a necessary current instantaneously. In this case, it is assumed that k <p, and the k-th acceleration generation device is pseudo in a direction having a component from the {((k−1) modm) +1} vertex to the {(kmodm) +1} vertex. After the start of presentation of a strong force (control 1), the p-th acceleration generator has a component from the {(p-1 mod m) +1} vertex to the {(pmodm) +1} vertex. The presentation of pseudo force sense (control 2) is started. There are various variations in such processing. Such processing is exemplified below.
(Process 1) Control 2 is started after Control 1 is started, and then Controls 1 and 2 are stopped.
(Process 2) Control 2 is started after control 1 is started, control 1 is stopped thereafter, and control 2 is stopped after control 1 is stopped.
(Process 3) Control 1 is stopped after control 1 is started, control 2 is started after control 1 is stopped, and control 2 is stopped.
(Process 4) Process 1, process 2, or process 3 is repeated until a predetermined condition is satisfied. Examples of the predetermined condition include repetition of a predetermined number of times and passage of a predetermined time.

In addition, since at least three acceleration generators sequentially present the force sense along the direction of rotation to be presented, a continuous rotational force sense can be presented more clearly while instantaneously suppressing the necessary current. That is, among the first to n-th acceleration generators, the q-th acceleration generator has a component having a component from the {(q−1modm) +1} vertex to the {(qmodm) +1} vertex. A pseudo force sense can be presented (where k <p <q and k, p, qε {1,..., N}). Then, the control 2 is started after the control 1 is started, and after the control 2 is started, the q-th acceleration generating device moves from the {(q−1modm) +1} vertex to the {(qmodm) +1} vertex. Presentation of a pseudo force sense (control 3) is started in a direction having a component toward. There are various variations in such processing. Such processing is exemplified below.
(Process 11) Control 2 is started after starting Control 1, Control 3 is started after Control 2 is started, and then Controls 1, 2, and 3 are stopped.
(Process 12) Control 2 is started after Control 1 is started, Control 3 is started after Control 2 is started, Control 1 is stopped after that, Control 2 is stopped after Control 1 is stopped, Control 2 After stopping, control 3 is stopped.
(Process 13) Control 1 is stopped after control 1 is started, control 2 is started after control 1 is stopped, control 3 is started after control 2 is stopped, and then control 3 is stopped.
(Process 14) Process 11, process 12, or process 13 is repeated until a predetermined condition is satisfied.
(Process 15) Control {(r mod 3) +1} is started after starting control {((r−1) mod 3) +1}, and then control {{(r−1) mod 3} +1} is performed. Stop, then start control {{(r + 2) mod 3} +1}, then stop control {(r mod 3) +1}, stop control {(r mod 3) +1} and then control { The control loop for each r starting ((r−1) mod 3) +1} is repeated for r = 1,..., R (where R is a positive integer).

  In addition, all the i-th acceleration generators (where i = 1,..., N) are {((k−1) mod m) +1} -th {(k mod m) +1} from the {((k−1) mod m) +1} apex. If a pseudo force sense can be presented in a direction having a component toward the apex, a force sense including a strong rotational force sense can be presented. In particular, at the same time, all the i-th acceleration generators (where i = 1,..., N) are moved from the {((k−1) mod m) +1} vertex to the {(k mod m) +1 }, If a pseudo force sense is presented in a direction having a component toward the top of {}, a force sense including a stronger rotational force sense can be presented.

  In addition, the acceleration generating device performs, for example, periodic motion and presents a pseudo translational force sense. In this case, a plurality of acceleration generators among the first to n-th acceleration generators may present a pseudo force sense by performing periodic motions having the same period and phase. For example, when presenting a force sensation including a rotational force sensation, if all the acceleration generators that are driven to do so perform periodic motions having the same period and phase to present a pseudo force sensation, A strong sense of rotational force can be presented. Also, when presenting a force sensation including a translational force sensation, if all the acceleration generators that are driven to do so perform a periodic motion with the same period and phase and present a pseudo force sensation, the moment It is possible to present a strong sense of translational force.

  In addition, when the above-described virtual polygon is a polygon having n sides on the same plane (ie, n-square) (that is, m = n), the first to nth acceleration generators can increase the number of polygons. Translational force sensations can be presented in straight directions along all sides of the square. As a result, the direction of the translational force sense to be presented can be closely controlled, or a rotational force sense with little translational component can be presented.

  A plane including the center of gravity of the pseudo force sense generating device (or the center of gravity of the device including the pseudo force sense generating device) includes all the sides of the above-described virtual polygon, and each i-th side of the virtual polygon (Where i = 1,..., N) pass through each i-th acceleration generator, and each i-th linear direction (where i = 1,..., N) is this virtual polygon. In the case of including each i-th side, it is possible to suppress the presentation of the translational force sense and the rotational force sense of the elevation angle component with respect to the virtual plane including the center of gravity, and the translational force sense along the virtual plane and The rotational force sense can be presented accurately. In addition, when the center of gravity of the pseudo force sense generating device exists in an area inside the virtual polygon (area inside the virtual polygon cylinder having the polygon as a cross section), the virtual force sense generating device A pseudo rotational force sense having a center of rotation can be presented in the area inside the square.

  In order to clearly present the rotational force sense, the center of gravity of the first to n-th pseudo force sense generating devices is located in the region inside the virtual polygon described above, and the first to n-th acceleration generation is performed. It is desirable that the arrangement configuration of the devices be rotationally symmetric (the first to nth acceleration generating devices are arranged rotationally symmetric). In particular, it is more desirable that the arrangement composed of the first to nth acceleration generators be rotationally symmetric about an axis passing through the center of gravity. As a method of designing so that the center of gravity of the pseudo force sense device is located in the area inside the virtual polygon formed by the acceleration generator, for example, the virtual polygon formed by the acceleration generator is placed on the outer periphery of the base. It is possible to make contact.

[Details]
Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Hereinafter, a case where n = m = 3 will be described as an example.
<Configuration>
As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2A to 2C, the simulated force sense generator 1 of the present embodiment includes a base 11 and first to third acceleration generators 12-1 to 12-fixed to the base 11. 3. The base 11 is a rigid body or an elastic body having a plate surface 11a. The base 11 is preferably composed of a rigid body, but may be made of a material that can transmit the acceleration generated by the first to third acceleration generators 12-1 to 12-3, even if it is not a rigid body in a strict sense. That's fine. For example, the base 11 can be configured by a synthetic resin such as an ABS resin, a metal such as copper, glass, wood, rubber, or the like. Further, the base portion 11 does not need to be configured by a single material, and for example, a part of an electronic circuit board including an insulating layer and a conductive layer may be used as the base portion 11. In addition, a part of a housing of an electronic device such as a mobile phone or a smartphone may be used as the base 11. Pedestal portions 11b-1 to 11b-3 are provided on the plate surface 11a side of the base 11, and the first to third acceleration generators 12-1 to 12-3 are pedestal portions 11b-1 to 11b-. 3 is fixed to the plate surface 11 a side of the base 11. The first to third acceleration generators 12-1 to 12-3 in this example have a substantially cylindrical shape, and present a pseudo translational force sense along each longitudinal direction. In addition, each of the first to third acceleration generators 12-1 to 12-3 in this example can also control which of the two different directions along the longitudinal direction presents the pseudo force sense. It is.

As illustrated in FIGS. 2A to 2C, the first to third acceleration generators 12-1 to 12-3 are different from each other in virtual polygons (triangles V ₁ V ₂ V ₃ ). Arranged along the first to third sides S _{1 to} S ₃ . This polygon (triangle V ₁ V ₂ V ₃ ) has three vertices V _{1 to} V ₃ and three on the same plane along the plate surface 11a (for example, parallel or substantially parallel to the plate surface 11a). It has sides S _{1 to} S ₃ . In this embodiment, the longitudinal direction of the first to third acceleration generating apparatus 12-1 to 12-3 are arranged along the sides _S 1 to S _3, respectively. Thus, the third acceleration generating apparatus 12-1 to 12-3 from a first, respectively, can present a pseudo force from the first in a linear direction along the third side _S 1 to S ₃ and It has become.

In the example of FIG. 2A, the plane including the center of gravity CG of the simulated force sense generator 1 includes all the sides S _{1 to} S ₃ of the triangle V ₁ V ₂ V ₃ , and each i-th acceleration generator 12-i. The haptic direction in which i = 1, _{2, 3} includes each side S _i of the triangle V ₁ V ₂ V ₃ . In this example, the center of gravity CG does not exist on a straight line passing through the vertex V _{{(((i−1) mod 3) +1}} and the vertex V _{{(imod 3) +1}} . The center of gravity CG exists inside the triangle V ₁ V ₂ V ₃ . Further, the arrangement composed of the first to third acceleration generators 12-1 to 12-3 is rotationally symmetric about an axis passing through the center of gravity CG. With such an arrangement, each i-th acceleration generating device presents a pseudo force sense in the i-th linear direction along the i- _th side S _i of the virtual triangle V ₁ V ₂ V ₃ . (However, i = 1, 2, 3). Further, the longitudinal axis of the first to third acceleration generating apparatus 12-1 to 12-3 is desirably arranged to respectively pass through the sides _S 1 to S _3, necessarily, each side _{S 1} it is not necessary to pass through the ~S _3. 1 and 2A to 2C exemplify the disk-shaped base 11, the shape of the base 11 is not limited to this, and the first to third acceleration generators 12-1 to 12-3 are not limited thereto. However, as long as a pseudo force sense can be presented in a linear direction along the first to third sides S _{1 to} S ₃ , any shape may be used.

<Functional configuration>
As illustrated in FIG. 3, the pseudo force sense generator 1 of the present embodiment is electrically connected to a control unit 102 controlled by a force sense designation unit 101. The haptic specification unit 101 and the control unit 102 are provided on a general-purpose or dedicated computer having a processor (hardware processor) such as a CPU (central processing unit) and a memory such as a RAM (random-access memory), for example. This is a device configured by reading the program. Part or all of the processing units constituting the haptic designating unit 101 and the control unit 102 may be configured by an electronic circuit (circuitry) other than the CPU. The CPU is also a kind of electronic circuit.

<Example of acceleration generator>
As the first to third acceleration generators 12-1 to 12-3, for example, a device disclosed in Non-Patent Document 1 may be used, or disclosed in Reference Document 1 (Patent No. 4551448). Other acceleration generators may be used. Examples of other acceleration generators are shown below.

  4A and 4B are conceptual diagrams illustrating an example of the acceleration generator 12-i (where i = 1, 2, 3), and illustrate a cross section in the longitudinal direction. As illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the acceleration generator 12-i of this example includes, for example, a support part 121-i, springs 122-i, 123-i, a coil 124-i, a permanent magnet 125-i, And a case 126-i. Both the case 126-i and the support part 121-i are hollow members having a shape in which both open ends of the cylinder are closed. However, the support portion 121-i is smaller than the case 126-i and has a size that can be accommodated in the case 126-i. Case 126-i and support part 121-i are comprised from synthetic resins, such as ABS resin, for example. The springs 122-i and 123-i are, for example, a helical spring or a leaf spring made of metal or the like. The spring constants of the springs 122-i and 123-i are preferably the same, but may be different from each other. The permanent magnet 125-i is, for example, a cylindrical permanent magnet, and one end 125a-i side in the longitudinal direction is an N pole, and the other end 125b-i side is an S pole. The coil 124-i is, for example, a continuous enamel wire and includes a first winding portion 124a-i and a second winding portion 124b-i.

  The permanent magnet 125-i is accommodated inside the support portion 121-i, and is supported so as to be slidable in the longitudinal direction. Although details of such a support mechanism are not shown, for example, a straight rail along the longitudinal direction is provided on the inner wall surface of the support portion 121-i, and this rail is slidably supported on the side surface of the permanent magnet 125-i. A rail support is provided. One end of the spring 122-i is fixed to the inner wall surface 121a-i on one end side in the longitudinal direction of the support portion 121-i, and the other end of the spring 122-i is connected to the end portion 125a-i of the permanent magnet 125-i. It is fixed. Further, one end of the spring 123-i is fixed to the inner wall surface 121b-i on the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the support portion 121-i, and the other end of the spring 123-i is the end portion 125b of the permanent magnet 125-i. -I is fixed.

A coil 124-i is wound around the outer periphery of the support portion 121-i. However, the permanent magnets 125-i end 125a-i side of the (N pole side), the first winding portion 124a-i are wound in _{A 1} direction, the end portion 125b-i side (S-pole side) in the second winding portion 124b-i it is wound around the a ₁ direction (direction toward the back to the front) in the opposite direction to the direction of B ₁ direction (direction toward the front to the back). That is, when viewed from the end portion 125a-i side (N pole side) of the permanent magnet 125-i, the first winding portion 124a-i is wound clockwise, and the second winding portion 124b-i is counterclockwise. It is wrapped around In addition, when the permanent magnet 125-i is stopped and the elastic force from the springs 122-i and 123-i is balanced, the end 125a-i side (N pole side) of the permanent magnet 125-i is the first winding. It is desirable that the end portion 125b-i (S pole side) be disposed in the region of the second winding portion 124b-i.

  The support part 121-i, the springs 122-i, 123-i, the coil 124-i, and the permanent magnet 125-i arranged and configured as described above are accommodated in the case 126-i, and the support part 121-i. Is fixed inside the case 126-i. However, the longitudinal direction of the case 126-i coincides with the longitudinal direction of the support portion 121-i and the longitudinal direction of the permanent magnet 125-i.

When an electric current is applied to the _{A 1} direction _{(B 1} direction) to the coil 124-i, by reaction of the Lorentz force is described in Fleming's left-hand rule, the permanent magnet 125-i _{C 1} direction (the permanent magnets 125-i A force in the direction from the north pole to the south pole (right direction) is applied (FIG. 4A). Conversely, when an electric current is applied to the _{A 2} direction _{(B 2} direction) to the coil 124-i, _{C 2} direction to the permanent magnet 125-i (the direction toward the S pole of the permanent magnet 125-i to the N pole: left) Is applied (FIG. 4B). However, _{A 2} direction is opposite the direction of _{A 1} direction. By these operations, kinetic energy is given to the system including the permanent magnet 125-i and the springs 122-i, 123-i. Thereby, the position and acceleration of the permanent magnet 125-i with respect to the case 126-i can be changed.

Here, a period (time) in which current flows in the coil 124-i in a predetermined direction and other periods are periodically repeated. At this time, a pseudo force sensation can be presented in a desired direction by biasing the ratio (reversal ratio) between the period in which current flows in a predetermined direction and the other period (inversion ratio). Hereinafter, this control will be exemplified with reference to FIGS. 5A to 5D. However, the vertical axis in FIGS. 5A to 5D represents the current value (current command value) [A] flowing through the coil 124-i, and the horizontal axis represents time [msec]. Represent the current value of A ₁ direction _{(B 1} direction) is positive is expressed by a negative current values of _{A 2} direction _{(B 2} direction).

5A and 5B show a period (time) t _{1 in} which a current (X) in the A ₁ direction (B ₁ direction) flows and a period t _{2 in} which a current (−X) in the A ₂ direction (B ₂ direction) flows. This is an example that repeats periodically. In this case, according to the ratio (inversion ratio t ₁ : t ₂ ) between the period t _{1 in} which the current in the A ₁ direction (B ₁ direction) flows and the period t _{2 in} which the current in the A ₂ direction (B ₂ direction) flows. A pseudo force sense can be presented in the left direction or the right direction of 4A and FIG. 4B. That is, when a pseudo force sense is presented in the left direction of FIGS. 4A and 4B, a periodic current having an inversion ratio that satisfies t ₁ > t ₂ is passed through the coil 124-i (FIG. 5A). For example, a periodic current (current having a frequency of 40 Hz) with an inversion ratio t ₁ : t ₂ = 18 msec: 7 msec is passed through the coil 124-i. Conversely, when presenting a pseudo force sensation in the right direction, a periodic current having an inversion ratio that satisfies t ₁ <t ₂ is passed through the coil 124-i (FIG. 5B). For example, a periodic current (current having a frequency of 40 Hz) with an inversion ratio t ₁ : t ₂ = 7 msec: 18 msec is passed through the coil 124-i.

Figure 5C and 5D, _{A 2} direction _{(B 2} direction) of the current (-X) period _{t 2} and whether the period _{t 1} passes no current cyclically repeating flowing, _{A 1} direction _{(B 1} direction) This is an example in which a period (time) t ₁ during which current (X) is supplied and a period t ₂ during which current (X) is not supplied are periodically repeated. However, the inversion ratio t ₁ : t ₂ between the period t ₁ and the period t ₂ is biased to any period. That is, when a pseudo force sense is presented in the left direction, a period t _{1 in} which a current (−X) in the A ₂ direction (B ₂ direction) is passed and a period t _{2 in} which no current is passed are periodically repeated. Current is passed through coil 124-i. The current inversion ratio t ₁ : t ₂ is biased toward the period t ₁ , and t ₁ > t ₂ (FIG. 5C). For example, a current having a reversal ratio t ₁ : t ₂ = 18 msec: 7 msec is passed through the coil 124-i. Conversely, when a pseudo force sense is presented in the right direction, a period (time) t ₁ during which the current (X) in the A ₁ direction (B ₁ direction) is passed and a period t ₂ during which the current (X) is not passed are periodically A current to be repeated is supplied to the coil 124-i. This current reversal ratio t ₁ : t ₂ is biased to the period t ₂ , and t ₁ <t ₂ (FIG. 5D). For example, a current having a reversal ratio t ₁ : t ₂ = 7 msec: 18 msec is passed through the coil 124-i.

  For convenience of explanation, the current values (current command values) illustrated in FIGS. 5A to 5D are rectangular waves. However, it is a current that periodically repeats the period in which the current flows in the predetermined direction and the other period, and the duty ratio between the period in which the current flows in the predetermined direction and the other period is in one of the periods Any waveform current may be used as long as it is biased. For example, the current may have a dull rising or falling edge, or may be a current including a ripple. The current periodically repeats a period in which a current flows in a predetermined direction and a period in which a current flows in the opposite direction, and the current amplitude value or the average value in a predetermined direction and the opposite direction The amplitude value of the current or the average value thereof may be different from each other.

  Further, as a modification of the acceleration generator 12-i illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the end 125a-i side (N pole side) or the end 125b-i side (S pole side) of the permanent magnet 125-i. Only the coil 124-i may be wound. For example, as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the coil 124-i may be wound only on the end portion 125b-i side (S pole side) on the outer peripheral side of the support portion 121-i. The control in such a case and the direction of the pseudo force sense presented thereby are the same as those of the acceleration generator 12-i illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B.

Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 7, instead of the coil 124-i of the acceleration generating device 12-i illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the end portion 125 a-i side (N the first winding portion and 124a'-i side of the coil, the end portion 125b-i side of the outer peripheral side of the support portion 121-i (S-pole side) _{B 1} direction wound around the _{a 1} direction pole side) ( a ₁ direction and the coil of the second winding portion 124b'-i side wound in the opposite direction) are separate ones may be used. In other words, the coil on the first winding portion 124a'-i side and the coil on the second winding portion 124b'-i side are not electrically connected, and can be configured to provide different electrical signals. Good.

In the example of FIG. 7, a period _{t 2} does not flow a period _{t 1} and the current flowing _{A 1} direction opposite of _{A 2} direction of the current (-X) only in the coil of the first winding portion 124a'-i side periodically repeating or only the coil of the second winding portion 124b'-i side B ₁ direction period to flow a current (X) (time) and a duration t ₂ does not flow and t ₁ is repeated periodically. However, the inversion ratio t ₁ : t ₂ between the period t ₁ and the period t ₂ is biased to one of the periods. That is, when a pseudo force sense is presented in the left direction of FIG. 7, the period t _{2 in} which the current (−X) in the A ₂ direction is applied only to the coil on the first winding portion 124 a ′ -i side and the current are supplied. A current that periodically repeats the period t ₁ that does not flow is supplied, but the inversion ratio t ₁ : t ₂ of this current is biased to the period t ₁ , and t ₁ > t ₂ (FIG. 5C). For example, a current having an inversion ratio t ₁ : t ₂ = 18 msec: 7 msec is passed. Conversely, when presenting a pseudo force in the right direction, the period to flow a current (X) in the B ₁ direction only to the coils of the second winding portion 124b'-i side (time) not flowed t ₁ A current that periodically repeats the period t ₂ is passed, but the inversion ratio t ₁ : t ₂ of this current is biased to the period t ₂ , and t ₁ <t ₂ (FIG. 5D). For example, a current having an inversion ratio t ₁ : t ₂ = 7 msec: 18 msec is passed.

<Reason why the exemplified acceleration generator can present a pseudo force sense>
Consider the translational motion of an object with a certain mass. This translational motion is a periodic motion with partial acceleration that moves in a short time with a large acceleration in the direction in which the pseudo force sense is to be presented, and moves in a long time with a small acceleration in the opposite direction. In this case, the user holding the system including the object perceives a pseudo force sense in the presenting direction. This utilizes human perceptual characteristics, and is a phenomenon that occurs due to inherent sensations and tactile sensations related to gripping motion (see, for example, Reference 1). As described above, a bias acceleration is given to the permanent magnet 125-i by flowing a current in which a reversal ratio between a period in which a current flows in a predetermined direction and another period is biased in any period. Accordingly, a pseudo force sense can be presented in a desired direction.

8A and 8B show the inversion ratio t ₁ : t ₂ between the period (time) t _{1 in} which the current in the A ₁ direction (B ₁ direction) flows and the period t _{2 in} which the current in the A ₂ direction (B ₂ direction) flows. = 18 msec: The external environment when the case 126-i is gripped by hand when a current of a frequency of 40 Hz repeated at 7 msec is passed through the coil 124-i of the acceleration generator 12-i illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B. The position change and the acceleration change of the case 126-i with reference to are respectively illustrated. On the other hand, FIGS. 8C and 8D show an inversion ratio t ₁ between a period (time) t _{1 in} which a current in the A ₁ direction (B ₁ direction) flows and a period t _{2 in} which a current in the A ₂ direction (B ₂ direction) flows. t ₂ = 7 msec: position change of the case 126-i when the case 126-i is gripped by hand when the current of the frequency of 40 Hz that repeats at 18 msec is passed through the coil 124-i, with the outside as a reference And acceleration change are illustrated respectively. 8A to 8D represents the time [Sec], and the vertical axes of FIGS. 8A and 8C represent the positional change [mm] of the case 126-i with respect to the external world. The vertical axis in FIG. 8D represents the acceleration [m / s ² ] of the case 126-i with the outside as a reference. The left direction in FIGS. 4A and 4B is the positive direction of the vertical axis in FIGS. 8A to 8D, and the right direction is the negative direction. As illustrated in FIG. 8B, when a current having a reversal ratio t ₁ : t ₂ = 18 msec: 7 msec is passed, at the time point of the start of t ₁ (time point when switching from t ₂ to t ₁ ), as shown in FIG. 4A and FIG. Since the force that moves the permanent magnet 125-i to the right suddenly from the state in which the permanent magnet 125-i is moving to the left acts, the reaction causes a large acceleration to the left in the case 126-i. On the other hand, the time when the beginning of _{t 2} (time switched from _{t 1} to _{t 2),} since the permanent magnets 125-i which is stationary by moving between _{t 1} moves to the left, the case arising in a reaction 126- The acceleration in the right direction to i is smaller than the start time of t ₁ . As a result, there is a left-right difference in the acceleration of the case 126-i, and a pseudo force sense is presented in the left direction. Conversely, as illustrated in FIG. 8D, when a current having a reversal ratio t ₁ : t ₂ = 7 msec: 18 msec is passed, a large acceleration occurs in the case 126-i in the right direction in FIGS. 4A and 4B, and the left There is a small acceleration in the direction. As a result, a pseudo force sense is presented in the right direction.

<Relationship between perceived pseudo force intensity and frequency>
The frequency component in the vicinity of 80 Hz or 80 Hz is a frequency that activates the nerve activity of the receptor that contributes to the perception of direction and acceleration among the skin, muscle, and tendon receptors of animals (including humans). Therefore, a person (animal) given an acceleration having a frequency component of 80 Hz or its vicinity perceives a strong sense of force or movement. FIG. 9 shows the FFT frequency analysis result of the acceleration shown in FIG. 8B. In FIG. 9, the horizontal axis represents frequency, and the vertical axis represents acceleration power at the frequency. It is shown that in addition to the fundamental frequency of 40 Hz, the acceleration includes a large power in the vicinity of 80 Hz. Due to the fact that the acceleration has a component around this frequency and the asymmetry of acceleration (biased acceleration), a strong pseudo force sense can be presented.

FIG. 10 shows the experimental results of perceptual clarity. In the experiment, the acceleration generator 12-i illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B (each part is accommodated in a rectangular parallelepiped case 126-i made of ABS resin of 17 mm × 17 mm × 33 mm) was used. Seven right-handed experimental participants aged 27-49 participated in the experiment. The experimental collaborator pinched the acceleration generator 12-i with the thumb and index finger of the right hand, and the acceleration generator 12-i switched the direction of force sense presentation every second and presented the force sense continuously for 3 seconds. The collaborators answered “1” when they clearly felt the direction of the force and its change, including the change of direction, and “0” otherwise. No feedback on responses was given to participants. When a pseudo force sense is presented in the left direction of FIGS. 4A and 4B, a period in which a current (−X) opposite to the period t _{1 in} which the current (X) in the A ₁ direction (B ₁ direction) flows is applied. the current repeating the t ₂ periodically flowed to the coil 124-i. Conversely, when presenting a pseudo force in the right direction, the period to flow a current (-X) of the A ₂ direction (B ₂ direction) (Time) and time t ₂ flowing t ₁ and the reverse current A current that periodically repeats was passed through the coil 124-i. Also,
t ₁ : 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 12, 15 [ms]
t ₂ : 12, 18, 23, 33, 43 [ms]
Experiments were conducted with respect to the inversion ratio t ₁ : t _{2 under} a total of 33 conditions consisting of combinations that satisfy t ₁ <t ₂ . The amplifier gain was the same under all conditions. The horizontal axis of FIG. 10 represents the current frequency (1 / (t ₁ + t ₂ )), the vertical axis represents the fractional inversion ratio (t ₂ / t ₁ ), and ● (filled circle) is the accuracy rate 100%, ○ indicates that the accuracy rate is 75% or more and less than 100%, Δ indicates that the accuracy rate is 50% or more and less than 75%, and × indicates that the accuracy rate is less than 50%. Note that “correct answer” indicates that the direction of the force sense actually presented, the change thereof, and the answer of the experiment cooperator matched. It can be seen from FIG. 10 that a force sense having a strong direction can be presented by using a current having a period of 40 Hz or in the vicinity thereof.

<Operation of pseudo force sense device>
Next, the operation of the simulated force sense generator 1 will be described.
Information (designation information) for designating what kind of force sense is presented is input to the force sense designating unit 101 illustrated in FIG. Examples of the designation information include information for specifying whether it is a translational force sense or a rotational force sense, information for specifying the direction of presentation of the force sense, information for specifying the strength of the force sense, and the like. The haptic designation unit 101 sends a control signal for presenting a haptic specified by the inputted designation information to the control unit 102. The control part 102 produces | generates and outputs the electric current input into the 1st to 3rd acceleration generators 12-1 to 12-3 according to the input control signal. The first to third acceleration generators 12-1 to 12-3 perform an operation according to the input current, thereby presenting a force sense specified by the designation information. Since the control for presenting the force sensation by each acceleration generating device has already been exemplified, the force sensation that each acceleration generating device should present in order to present the force sensation specified by the designation information by the pseudo force sensation generating device 1 will be described below. Is illustrated.

As illustrated in FIG. 11A, in order to present a rotational force sense clockwise _{(G 1} direction), acceleration generating apparatus 12-i of each of the i (but, i = 1, 2, 3) the vertex V _{{((I−1) mod 3) +1}} to V _{{(i mod 3) +1} in} the direction having a component (for example, vertex V _{{((i−1) mod 3) +1}} A pseudo force sense may be presented in V _{{(i mod 3) +1}} direction. That is, acceleration generating apparatus 12-1 of the first, second and third, respectively, the vertex _{V 2} from the vertex _{V 1,} vertex _{V 3} from the apex _{V 2,} the vertex _{V 1} from the vertex _{V 3} A pseudo force sense may be presented in a direction (for example, directions D ₁ , E ₁ , F ₁ ) having a component toward H. In particular, when the first to third acceleration generators 12-1 to 12-3 perform a periodic motion having the same period and phase to present a pseudo force sense, a momentarily stronger rotational force sense is provided. Can be presented. In order to present a sense of rotational force in the counterclockwise direction (opposite direction of G1), the _first , second, and third acceleration generators 12-1, 12-2, and 12-3 are respectively connected to D ₁ , The force sense in the reverse direction of E ₁ and F ₁ may be presented.

As illustrated in FIG. 11B, in order to present a translational force sense in the direction H ₁ from the second acceleration generator 12-2 toward the vertex V ₁ , the first acceleration generator 12-1 has the vertex V _2. A pseudo force sense is presented in a direction having a component from the vertex V ₃ toward the vertex V ₃ (for example, a direction D ₂ from the vertex V ₂ toward the vertex V ₃ ), and the third acceleration generator 12-3 starts from the vertex V _3. direction having a component directed to the vertex V ₁ (e.g., the direction F ₁ towards the vertex V ₁ from the vertex V ₃₎ pseudo-force presented, the second acceleration generating apparatus 12-2 presents the force If there is no. In particular, when the first and third acceleration generators 12-1 and 12-3 perform periodic motions having the same period and phase to present a pseudo force sense, the momentarily stronger translation force sense is provided. Can be presented.

As illustrated in FIG. 11C, in order to present a force sense including a translation force sense in the direction J ₁ from the third acceleration generator 12-3 toward the vertex V ₃ to the vertex V ₂ , the second acceleration generation is performed. direction having a component unit 12-2 is directed from the vertex _{V 3} to the vertex _{V 2} (e.g., the direction _{E 2} toward the vertex _{V 3} from the vertex _{V 2)} a pseudo-force presented, other acceleration generating apparatus You don't have to present a sense of force

It is also possible to provide a rotational force sense clockwise _{(G 1} direction) as shown in Figure 12A~ Figure 12C. In other words, a direction having a component first acceleration generating apparatus 12-1 is directed from the vertex _{V 1} to the first _{V 2} vertices (e.g., the direction _{D 1)} to start the presentation of pseudo-force to (Figure 12A) After stopping it, the second acceleration generator 12-2 presents a pseudo force sensation in a direction (eg, direction E ₁ ) having a component from the vertex V ₂ toward the vertex V _3. After starting (FIG. 12B) and stopping it, the third acceleration generator 12-3 is simulated in a direction (eg, direction F ₁ ) having a component from the vertex V ₃ toward the vertex of the V _1. Presentation of a strong force sense may be started (FIG. 12C) and stopped. Thereby, a continuous sense of rotational force can be presented. These controls may be repeated. Thus, it is possible to present a sense of rotational force that lasts for a longer time.

It is also possible to provide a rotational force sense clockwise _{(G 1} direction) as shown in Figure 13A~ Figure 13C. That is, the vertex direction (e.g., direction _{D 1)} and the _{V 3} from the apex _{V 2} having a component first and second acceleration generating apparatus 12-1 and 12-2 extending from the vertex _{V 1} to the first _{V 2} vertices A direction having a component toward (for example, direction E ₁ ) is started (FIG. 13A), the first acceleration generator 12-1 is stopped, and then the third acceleration generator 12-3 is moved from the vertex V _3. After presenting the pseudo force sense in a direction having a component toward the vertex of the V ₁ (for example, the direction F ₁ ) (FIG. 13B), and stopping the second acceleration generator 12-2, direction having a component first acceleration generating apparatus 12-1 is directed from the vertex V ₁ to the first V ₂ vertices (e.g., the direction D ₁₎ may initiate the presentation of pseudo-force to. Thereby, a continuous strong rotational force sensation can be presented. These controls may be repeated. Thus, it is possible to present a sense of rotational force that lasts for a longer time.

It is also possible to provide a rotational force sense clockwise _{(G 1} direction) as shown in Figure 14A~ Figure 14C. In other words, a direction having a component first acceleration generating apparatus 12-1 is directed from the vertex _{V 1} to the first _{V 2} vertices (e.g., the direction _{D 1)} to start the presentation of pseudo-force to (FIG. 14A) without stopping it, a direction having a component second acceleration generating apparatus 12-2 is directed from the vertex V ₂ to the vertex of the V ₃ (e.g., the direction E ₁₎ the presentation of pseudo-force to Start (FIG. 14B) and without stopping it, the third acceleration generator 12-3 is simulated in a direction (eg, direction F ₁ ) having a component from the vertex V ₃ toward the vertex of the V ₁ May be started (FIG. 14C). Thereby, it is possible to present a sense of rotational force that continuously increases in strength. These controls may be repeated. Thus, it is possible to present a sense of rotational force that lasts for a longer time.

Further, when presenting a sense of rotational force in the counterclockwise direction (opposite direction of G1), the _first , second, and third acceleration generators 12-1, 12-2, and 12-3 are shown in FIGS. 12A to 12C. The reverse sense of power may be presented in the reverse order. The same applies to FIGS. 13A to 13C and FIGS. 14A to 14C.

[Modification 1]
Next, an example of n = m = 4 is shown. As illustrated in FIG. 15A and the like, the pseudo force sense generator 2 of this modified example includes a base 11 and first to fourth acceleration generators 22-1 to 22-4 fixed to the base 11. Have. The base 11 is as described above, and each i-th acceleration generator 22-i is the same as the i-th acceleration generator 12-i. However, the first to fourth acceleration generating devices 22-1 to 22-4 each have four vertices W on the same plane along the plate surface 11a (for example, parallel or substantially parallel to the plate surface 11a). Along the different first to fourth sides T _{1 to} T ₄ of a virtual polygon (square W ₁ W ₂ W ₃ W ₄ ) having _{1 to} W ₄ and four sides T _{1 to} T ₄ Has been placed. In this example, the longitudinal direction of the first to fourth acceleration generating apparatus 22-1 to 22-4 are arranged along the side _T 1 through T _4, respectively. Thus, acceleration generating apparatus 22-1 to 22-4, respectively, and can present a pseudo-force from the first in a linear direction along the fourth side _T 1 through T _4.

As illustrated in FIG. 15A, in order to present a sense of rotational force in the clockwise direction (O ₁ direction), each i-th acceleration generator 22-i (where i = 1, 2, 3, 4) A direction having a component from the vertex V _{{((i−1) mod 4) +1}} to the vertex of the V _{{(i mod 4) +1}} (for example, the vertex V _{{((i−1) mod 4) +1}} The pseudo force sensation may be presented in the direction from V to the _{ V _{((i mod 4) +1)} vertex _} . That is, the first, second, third, and fourth acceleration generators 22-1, 22-2, 22-3, and 22-4 respectively have a vertex W ₁ to a vertex W ₂ , a vertex W ₂ to a vertex W ₃ , and a vertex. A pseudo force sense may be presented in a direction having components from W ₃ to the vertex W ₄ and from the vertex W ₄ to the vertex W ₁ (for example, directions K ₁ , L ₁ , M ₁ , N ₁ ). In order to present a sense of rotational force in the counterclockwise direction (opposite direction of O ₁ ), it is only necessary to present these force senses in the opposite directions.

As illustrated in FIG. 15B, in order to present a translational force sense in the direction P ₁ from the first acceleration generation device 22-1 toward the third acceleration generation device 22-3, the first acceleration generation device 22 is provided. -1 presents a pseudo force sense in a direction having a component from the vertex W ₁ to the vertex W ₂ (for example, a direction K ₁ from the vertex W ₁ to the vertex W ₂ ), and the third acceleration generator 22- 3 presents a pseudo force sense in a direction having a component from the vertex W ₄ toward the vertex W ₃ (for example, a direction M ₂ from the vertex W ₄ toward the vertex W ₃ ), and the other acceleration generating devices Don't present it.

As illustrated in FIG. 15C, in order to present a translational force sense in the direction _{Q 1} toward the vertex _{W 2} to the vertex _{W 4,} the first acceleration generating apparatus 22-1 toward the vertex _{W 1} from the vertex _{W 2} direction having a component (e.g., the direction _{K 2} toward the vertex _{W 1} from the vertex _{W 2)} pseudo-force sense is presented to the second acceleration generating apparatus 22-2 toward the vertex _{W 3} from the vertex _{W 2} component direction having a (e.g., the direction _{L 1)} presents a pseudo-force in a direction having a component in which the third acceleration generating apparatus 22-3 is directed from the vertex _{W 3} to the vertex _{W 4} (e.g., the direction _M 1) to present a pseudo force, in a direction having a component fourth acceleration generating apparatus 22-4 toward the vertex _{W 4} from the vertex _{W 1} (e.g., the direction _{N 2} extending from the vertex _{W 1} to the vertex _{W 4)} A pseudo force sense may be presented.

Further, as shown in FIG. 16A or FIG. 16B, the sense of rotational force may be presented only by a part of the acceleration generators. That is, as illustrated in FIG. 16A, the second acceleration generator 22-2 presents a pseudo force sense in a direction (for example, the direction L ₁ ) having a component from the vertex W ₂ to the vertex W ₃ , direction having a component fourth acceleration generating apparatus 22-4 is directed from the vertex W ₄ to the vertex W ₁ (e.g., the direction N ₁₎ presents a pseudo force to, presents a force sense other acceleration generating apparatus by not, it may present a rotational force sense clockwise (O ₁ direction). Similarly, as illustrated in FIG. 16B, a direction having a component first acceleration generating apparatus 22-1 toward the vertex W ₂ from the vertex W ₁ (e.g., the direction K ₁₎ presents a pseudo force sense to The third acceleration generator 22-3 presents a pseudo force sensation in a direction having a component from the vertex W ₃ to the vertex W ₄ (for example, the direction M ₁ ), and the other acceleration generators sense the force sensation. by not present, it may present a rotational force sense clockwise (O ₁ direction). Further, control may be performed as shown in FIG. 15A in order to present a strong rotational force sense, and control may be performed as shown in FIG. 16A or FIG. 16B in order to present a weak rotational force sense. Further, the control of FIG. 16A and the control of FIG. 16B may be alternately repeated. In order to present a sense of rotational force in the counterclockwise direction (opposite direction of O ₁ ), it is only necessary to present these force senses in the opposite directions.

Also, as shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B, the force sense may be presented with fewer acceleration generating devices than in FIGS. 15B and 15C, and the translational force sense weaker than in FIGS. 15B and 15C may be presented. That is, as illustrated in FIG. 17A, the third acceleration generator 22-3 presents a pseudo force sense in a direction (for example, the direction M ₂ ) having a component from the vertex W ₄ to the vertex W ₃ . it may present a weak translational force sense the P ₁ direction by other acceleration generating apparatus does not present a force sense. Further, as illustrated in FIG. 17B, a direction having a component third acceleration generating apparatus 22-3 is directed from the vertex _{W 3} to the vertex _{W 4} (e.g., the direction _{M 1)} presents a pseudo force sense to, The fourth acceleration generator 22-4 presents a pseudo force sense in a direction having a component from the vertex W ₁ to the vertex W ₄ (for example, the direction N ₂ ), and the other acceleration generators present the force sense. a weak translational force sense of Q ₁ direction may be presented by not. In order to present a strong translational force sensation, control may be performed as shown in FIGS. 15B and 15C, and to present a weak translational force sensation, control may be performed as shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B.

  Even in these modified examples, when a plurality of acceleration generators simultaneously present a pseudo force sense, it is possible to present a stronger force sense instantaneously by performing periodic motions having the same period and phase. In addition, when presenting a rotational force sense, each acceleration generating device sequentially presents a sense of sensation so that a continuous rotational force sense can be presented.

[Modification 2]
Next, an example where m = 4 and n = 3 is shown. As illustrated in FIG. 18A and the like, the pseudo force sense generator 3 of this modification includes a base 11 and acceleration generators 22-1, 22-3 and 22-4 fixed to the base 11. The acceleration generators 22-1, 22-3, and 22-4 are disposed along the sides T ₁ , T ₃ , and T ₄ of the quadrangle W ₁ W ₂ W ₃ W ₄ along the plate surface 11a, respectively. . Thereby, the acceleration generators 22-1, 22-3, and 22-4 can each present a pseudo force sense in the linear direction along the sides T ₁ , T ₃ , and T ₄ .

As illustrated in FIG. 18A, in order to present a clockwise (O ₁ direction) rotational force sensation, the acceleration generators 22-1 and 22-3 have the vertex W ₁ to the vertex W ₂ and the vertex W, respectively. _A pseudo force sense may be presented in a direction (for example, directions K ₁ and M ₁ ) having a component from ₃ toward the vertex W ₄ . In order to present a sense of rotational force in the counterclockwise direction (opposite direction of O ₁ ), it is only necessary to present these force senses in the opposite directions.

As illustrated in FIG. 18B, in order to present a translational force sense in the direction _{P 1} is in a direction having a component acceleration generating apparatus 22-1 toward the vertex _{W 2} from the vertex _{W 1} (e.g., the direction _{K 1)} A pseudo force sense is presented, and the acceleration generator 22-3 presents a pseudo force sense in a direction (for example, the direction M ₂ ) having a component from the vertex W ₄ to the vertex W ₃ to generate other accelerations. It is sufficient that the device does not present a force sense.

As illustrated in FIG. 18C, in order to present a translational force sense in the direction _{Q 1} represents a direction having a component acceleration generating apparatus 22-3 is directed from the vertex _{W 3} to the vertex _{W 4} (e.g., the direction _{M 1)} to It is only necessary to present a pseudo force sense and present the pseudo force sense in a direction (for example, the direction N ₂ ) in which the fourth acceleration generator 22-4 has a component from the vertex W ₁ toward the vertex W _4. .

[Others]
When the configuration of the force sense specification unit 101 and the control unit 102 is realized by a computer, the processing content of the function is described by a program. By executing this program on a computer, the above processing functions are realized on the computer. The program describing the processing contents can be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium. An example of a computer-readable recording medium is a non-transitory recording medium. Examples of such a recording medium are a magnetic recording device, an optical disk, a magneto-optical recording medium, a semiconductor memory, and the like.

  This program is distributed, for example, by selling, transferring, or lending a portable recording medium such as a DVD or CD-ROM in which the program is recorded. Furthermore, the program may be distributed by storing the program in a storage device of the server computer and transferring the program from the server computer to another computer via a network.

  A computer that executes such a program first stores, for example, a program recorded on a portable recording medium or a program transferred from a server computer in its own storage device. When executing the process, this computer reads a program stored in its own recording device and executes a process according to the read program. As another execution form of the program, the computer may read the program directly from the portable recording medium and execute processing according to the program, and each time the program is transferred from the server computer to the computer. The processing according to the received program may be executed sequentially. The above-described processing may be executed by a so-called ASP (Application Service Provider) type service that realizes a processing function only by an execution instruction and result acquisition without transferring a program from the server computer to the computer. Good.

In addition, this invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment. For example, there are a plurality of acceleration generators capable of presenting a pseudo force sense in a linear direction along one of the sides of the above-described virtual polygon, and the number of acceleration generators to be driven is controlled among them. Thus, the strength of the force sense of the linear component may be controlled. Further, in the above-described embodiment, the example in which the current input to the first to third acceleration generators 12-1 to 12-3 is controlled in accordance with the control signal input by the control unit 102 has been described. However, the voltage applied to the first to third acceleration generators 12-1 to 12-3 may be controlled according to the control signal input by the control unit 102. Moreover, in FIG. 2A, the virtual plane (plane parallel to the base 11) including the center of gravity CG of the pseudo force sense generator 1 includes all the sides S _{1 to} S ₃ of the triangle V ₁ V ₂ V ₃ , The haptic direction of the i-th acceleration generator 12-i (where i = 1, 2, 3) includes each side S _i of the triangle V ₁ V ₂ V ₃ , and the vertex V _{{(((i−1 ) Mod 3) +1}} and the vertex V _{{(imod 3) +1}} , an example in which the center of gravity CG does not exist is shown. However, the virtual plane including the center of gravity CG of the pseudo force sense generator 1 may not include any of the sides S _{1 to} S ₃ of the triangle V ₁ V ₂ V ₃ . Further, the force sense presentation direction of any i-th acceleration generating device 12-i (where i = 1, 2, 3) may not include the side of the triangle V ₁ V ₂ V ₃ . Further, the center of gravity CG may exist on a straight line passing through any vertex V _{{(((i−1) mod 3) +1}} and the vertex V _{{(imod 3) +1}} . For example, the centroid CG exists on a straight line passing through the vertex V ₂ and the vertex V _3, and the centroid CG is located on a straight line passing through the vertex V ₁ and the vertex V ₂ and on a straight line passing through the vertex V ₃ and the vertex V _1. It does not have to exist. In this case, at least two of the three acceleration generators 12-1 to 12-3 are directed from the vertex V _{{(((i−1) mod 3) +1}} to the vertex V _{{(imod 3) +1}} . In this case, at least one of the acceleration generators presents a translational force sensation (a translational force sensation whose action line is deviated from the center of gravity CG) in a direction deviated from the center of gravity CG. Therefore, it is possible to present a force sense including a rotational force sense component as a whole. On the other hand, in this case, the translational force sense that only one of the acceleration generating device 12-2 along the side _{S 2} which passes through the vertex _{V 2} and the vertex _{V 3} (e.g., a straight line passing through the vertex _{V 2} and the vertex _{V 3} Presenting a translational force sensation that becomes an action line (FIG. 11C), a translational force sensation with a small rotational force component can be presented. In addition, it can change suitably in the range which does not deviate from the meaning of this invention.

1-3 Simulated force sense generators 12-1 to 12-3, 22-1 to 22-4 Accelerator generator

Claims (9)

A base and first to n-th acceleration generators fixed to the base,
The i-th acceleration generating devices included in the first to n-th acceleration generating devices can each present a pseudo force sense in the i-th linear direction, and n is an integer of 3 or more, i = 1,..., N,
The i-th linear direction is a linear direction along the i-th side among first to n-th different sides included in a virtual polygon having n or more sides on the same plane. A pseudo force sense generator. The pseudo force generation device according to claim 1,
The polygon has first to m-th vertices, and the {((j−1) mod m) +1} -th vertex and {(j mod m) +1} -th among the first to m-th vertices. Vertices are adjacent to each other, m ≧ n, j = 1,..., M,
Among the first to nth acceleration generating devices, at least
The kth acceleration generator can present a pseudo force sense in a direction having a component from the {((k−1) mod m) +1} vertex to the {(k mod m) +1} vertex. And
The p-th acceleration generating device can present a pseudo force sense in a direction having a component from the {((p−1) mod m) +1} vertex to the {(p mod m) +1} vertex. And k ≠ p, the pseudo force sense generator. The pseudo force sense generator according to claim 2,
On the straight line passing through the {((k−1) mod m) +1} vertex and the {(k mod m) +1} vertex, and the {((p−1) mod m) +1} The pseudo force sense generator is such that the center of gravity of the pseudo force sense generator does not exist on a straight line passing through the vertex of the pseudo force sense and the {(p mod m) +1} vertex. The pseudo force sense generator according to claim 2 or 3,
k <p, and the k-th acceleration generator is simulated in a direction having a component from the {((k−1) mod m) +1} vertex to the {(k mod m) +1} vertex. After starting the presentation of a typical force sense, the p-th acceleration generator has a component from the {(p−1 mod m) +1} vertex to the {(p mod m) +1} vertex. A pseudo force sense generator that starts presenting a pseudo force sense in a direction. The pseudo force generation device according to claim 4,
Of the first to n-th acceleration generators, the q-th acceleration generator has a component from the {(q−1 mod m) +1} vertex to the {(q mod m) +1} vertex. Pseudo force sense can be presented in the direction, k <p <q,
Presenting a pseudo force sense in a direction in which the p-th acceleration generator has a component from the {((p−1) mod m) +1} apex to the {(p mod m) +1} apex. , The q-th acceleration generating device has a pseudo force in a direction having a component from the {(q−1 mod m) +1} apex to the {(q mod m) +1} apex. A pseudo force sense generator that starts presenting sense of sensation. The pseudo force sense generator according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
A pseudo force sense generator that is controllable so that a combination of pseudo force sense presentation directions presented by the first to nth acceleration generators is a direction including a linear component along the same plane. The pseudo force sense generator according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
A pseudo force sense generating device in which a plurality of acceleration generating devices among the first to nth acceleration generating devices perform a periodic motion having the same period and phase to present a pseudo force sense. The pseudo force sense generator according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
The pseudo force sense generating device, wherein the polygon is a polygon having n sides on the same plane. The pseudo force sense generator according to any one of claims 1 to 8,
A pseudo force in which a center of gravity of the first to nth pseudo force generation devices is present in a region inside the virtual polygon, and the first to nth acceleration generation devices are arranged rotationally symmetrically. Sense generator.

Images