JP4066055B2 - Tactile stimulation communication device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a tactile stimulus communication apparatus that provides tactile information such as a touch stroked by a receiver, a touch traced by a character, and a tapping touch according to a stimulus method instructed by a sender.

  Conventionally, information that can be exchanged with a remote communication tool such as a mobile phone or the Internet is generally audio and visual information such as sound and images. On the other hand, parent and child and lovers express intimacy by tactile stimulation such as daily stroking. Further, when communicating with a remote person in a situation where it is difficult to make a voice or to keep an eye on, such as during a meeting, the transmission of information by exchanging voice, e-mail, and images is distracted. In this case, if the character can be traced on the skin, it becomes possible for only the person to communicate without being noticed by others. It is also useful for transmission to people with both visual and auditory impairments, and for transmission of people with visual and auditory impairments.

  Conventionally, as a means for transmitting tactile information, Patent Document 1 discloses a portable communication device provided with a contact detecting means and a tactile stimulus generating means.

JP 2002-232317 A (0006-0009, FIG. 1)

  However, the device described in Patent Document 1 does not consider usability assuming a specific use situation such as which part of the body receives tactile stimulation.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a practical tactile stimulation communication device that is easy to use.

In order to achieve the above object, a tactile stimulation device according to the present invention drives a tactile stimulator provided on the basis of an input control signal, and stimulates a tactile sense target surface with the tactile stimulator. means and a stimulation method instruction unit for converting into electrical signals the contact stimulus applied, together generates and outputs a stimulus method instruction information for instructing stimulation method based on the electrical signal, the stimulation method instruction and control means for converting the information into the control signals, as well as send stimulation method instruction information generated by said control means, and communication means for transmitting to the control means receives the stimulus method instruction information The tactile stimulus output means is disposed so as to be able to advance and retreat in the axial direction through the hole. The tactile stimulator Driving means for driving the tactile stimulator to advance and retreat with respect to the tactile stimulus target surface, wherein the tactile stimulus output means is placed when the tactile stimulus output means is placed on the tactile stimulus target surface. Is moved in the axial direction by gravity and supported on the tactile stimulus target surface, and the drive means is configured to drive the tactile stimulus from that state.
In this case, the tactile stimulus output means is disposed on one surface of the casing, and the stimulation method instruction means is disposed on a casing surface that is a front / back relation of the casing surface on which the tactile stimulus output means is disposed. The control means may be configured to output the control signal obtained by converting stimulation method instruction information generated based on the electrical signal to the tactile stimulus output means.

  As a result, the user receives a tactile stimulus with the palm having a relatively high distribution density of the tactile receptors (nerves) by placing it on the palm of one hand with the tactile stimulus output means facing down, and with the finger of the other hand Using the stimulation method instruction means on the upper surface, a stimulation method instruction can be given to the communication partner.

  The tactile stimulus output means preferably includes a drive means for causing the tactile stimulus to abut against the tactile stimulus target surface to generate an axial reaction force. By driving the tactile stimulator so that the reaction force becomes a required value, the surface of the tactile stimulus target is a curved surface that differs depending on the case, regardless of the initial position interval between the tactile stimulus target surface and the tactile stimulator. However, a desired tactile sensation can be generated.

  With the above configuration, an easy-to-use tactile stimulus communication device capable of outputting tactile stimuli along the skin on any concave surface such as a palm or convex surface such as a cheek can be obtained.

  Further, by defining the tactile stimulation divided into a plurality of tactile stimulation modes and outputting the stimulation patterned for each mode, the stimulation method instruction information is simplified, and the configuration of the tactile stimulation output means is facilitated. In addition, it is possible to output stimuli patterned in an easy-to-understand manner.

  Further, in the character transmission mode, characters are represented by the order of the moving direction and the moving direction of the stimulus position.

  As a result, it is possible to output effectively using human sensory organ characteristics that the absolute position is difficult to understand but is sensitive to the direction of movement.

  By these means, tactile stimulation communication can be performed with a simple and stable posture in which the case is placed on the palm.

  In addition, when the tactile stimulator is brought into contact with the target surface of the tactile stimulus, the tactile stimulator can be driven in accordance with the curved surface to output a desired tactile stimulus, so that the tactile stimulus can be received on the curved surface portion of the body. is there.

  Hereinafter, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a tactile stimulus communication apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. The tactile stimulus communication apparatus 1 shown in the figure includes a tactile stimulus output means 2, a stimulation method instruction means 3, a communication means 4, a control means 5 for controlling them, and a power source (not shown). The tactile stimulus output means 2 gives a tactile stimulus to the contacted object by a mechanism described later. The stimulation method instruction unit 3 acquires an instruction given by the user with a finger or the like by a mechanism described later, converts the instruction into an electrical signal, and transmits the electrical signal to the control unit 5. The control means 5 generates stimulation method instruction information based on the transmitted electrical signal and transmits it to the communication means 4. The communication unit 4 transmits the stimulation method instruction information transmitted from the stimulation method instruction unit 3 to another tactile stimulation communication device 1, receives the stimulation method instruction information from the other tactile stimulation communication device 1, and receives the stimulation method instruction information. 5 The control means 5 converts the transmitted stimulation method instruction information into a control signal for the tactile stimulus output means 2 and outputs it to the tactile stimulus output means 2. Similarly, the control unit 5 converts the stimulation method instruction information transmitted from the stimulation method instruction unit 3 into a control signal and outputs the control signal to the tactile stimulus output unit 2. The tactile stimulus output means 2 outputs a tactile stimulus to the object in contact according to the transmitted control signal. The control means 5 also controls the operations of the tactile stimulus output means 2, the stimulation method instruction means 3 and the communication means 4.

In this way, for example, the stimulation method instructed by the user A is output to the user B, and the stimulation method instructed by the user B is output to the user A. At this time, the user's back can place the stimulation method for the communication partner with his / her palm by placing it on the palm of one hand with the tactile stimulus output means facing down.

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating the tactile stimulus communication apparatus according to the first embodiment. The tactile stimulus communication apparatus shown in FIG. 2 includes an elliptical columnar case 6 in which both ends in the axial direction are closed, a tactile stimulus output means 2, a stimulation method instruction means 3, a communication means 4, and a control provided in the case 6. Means 5 and a power source 10. The tactile stimulus output means 2 and the stimulation method instruction means 3 are arranged on the opposite surfaces of the housing 6 in the axial direction. The casing 6 is roughly sized to be placed on the palm.

  According to this configuration, it is possible to realize a usage method in which a tactile stimulus is received with the palm of one hand and the stimulation method is instructed with the finger of the other hand. That is, as shown in FIG. 5, the housing 6 is placed on the hand 7 so that the tactile stimulus output means 2 is in contact with the palm, and on the stimulation method instruction means 3 on the surface substantially opposite to the tactile stimulus output means 2. Then, the usage method of instructing the stimulation method by moving the finger 8 of the other hand is possible.

  In the tactile stimulus communication apparatus shown in FIG. 2, the communication means 4 and the power supply 10 are built in the housing 6. In this case, since the user can use the casing 6 alone, the portability is excellent. The communication unit 4 and the power supply 10 may be provided outside or an existing external device may be used. In that case, since the housing 6 placed on the hand can be made small and light, the burden on the hand during use can be reduced.

  The stimulation method instructing means 3 is instructed by moving the finger 8 on the stimulation method instructing means 3 and changing the moving position, moving direction, moving speed, pressing strength, tapping rhythm, and the like. If a stimulus based on these parameters is output from the tactile stimulus output means 2 as it is, it is possible to give a feeling of directly tracing the palm with a finger. However, it is difficult to realize a mechanism that faithfully reproduces these parameters with a compact one that can be placed on the hand. Therefore, in order to perform effective stimulus expression with a limited output method, it is preferable to pattern the stimulus.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a tactile stimulus of the tactile stimulus communication apparatus according to the first embodiment. In this embodiment, tactile stimulation is defined by dividing into six modes (a) to (f).
(A) Normal mode In this mode, the position where the finger 8 is moved, the moving speed, the moving direction, and the pressing strength are output as they are.
(B) Stroking mode This mode gives a sense of stroking. Gives a sense of stroking by giving stimulation in the same direction as a whole. Several levels are provided for the stroking speed, the stroking direction, the stroking strength, the stroking width, etc., and the output of the level closest to the values of these parameters obtained from the stroking operation of the stimulation method instruction means 3 is performed.
(C) Character transmission mode This is a mode for outputting the stimulus of character stroke, and is an output example of the character “A”. The tactile sensation of the palm is sensitive to the relative direction of successive movements, although the absolute position is difficult to understand. Therefore, the direction of movement is exaggerated and output. The first character element stimulation vector 21 “lateral linear motion”, the second character element stimulation vector 22 “vertical linear motion”, and the third character element stimulation vector 23 “spinning motion” It can be recognized from the change that it is the letter “a”.
(D) Tonton mode This mode mainly focuses on the transmission of the rhythm of beating. By omitting parameters such as position and speed, it is possible to specialize in crisp rhythm transmission. The strength can be substituted by the area of the stimulation area 24.
(E) Radiation stimulation mode This mode transmits a special touch. In general, when a specific part of the body is stroked radially, it is possible to obtain a curious and interesting feeling. This is an exaggerated output. By fixing the position and direction, the most effective output can be performed in a limited area.
(F) Sander mode This mode transmits other special feeling. A pleasant sensation can be obtained by randomly stimulating random positions as in the order of the numbers in the figure. Even if the position and rhythm instructed by the stimulation method instructing means 3 are biased, it is possible to achieve more effective output by performing randomness evenly at the time of output.

  In this way, tactile stimuli are defined by dividing them into multiple modes, and necessary parameters are determined for each mode, and expressions such as stroking and striking are made into stimuli that are patterned in an easy-to-understand manner, so that they can be transmitted to the other party more clearly. it can. Furthermore, by defining the tactile stimulation divided into a plurality of modes, it is possible to perform output in consideration of human sensory organ characteristics and facilitate character recognition by tactile sense.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an operation flow of the tactile stimulus communication apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. With reference to FIG. 7, the procedure in the case of transmitting a tactile sensation from the first to the second will be described first.

  When the communication is started (S100), the stimulation method instruction means 3 of the upper tactile stimulation communication device 1 receives the input instruction (physical operation / contact stimulation applied to the stimulation method instruction means 3) as an electrical signal. To the control means 5 of the former (hereinafter referred to as the control means 5), and the control means 5 obtains the instruction input by the stimulation method instruction means 3 based on the transmitted electrical signal ( S101). Then, it is determined whether or not the tactile stimulation mode is the stroke mode based on the instruction input by the stimulation method instruction means 3 (S102). Recognition of the tactile stimulation mode may be automatically performed from the movement input by the stimulation method instruction unit 3, or a specific movement for designating the mode may be performed by the stimulation method instruction unit 3. Alternatively, mode instructing means for instructing the mode may be provided in the housing 6.

  FIG. 8 shows an example in which mode instruction means is provided in the housing 6 of the tactile stimulus communication apparatus according to the first embodiment. In the example of FIG. 8, on the side surface (cylindrical outer peripheral surface) of the housing 6, the gait mode instruction means 31, the character transmission mode instruction means 32, the tonton mode instruction means 33, the radiation stimulation mode instruction means 34, the scissor mode Instruction means 35 and normal mode instruction means 36 are provided. Each mode instruction means is a push button, and the mode is designated by pressing the button.

  When it is recognized that the mode is the stroke mode in S102, the control unit 5 proceeds to S103, and obtains the speed, direction, strength, and width as necessary parameters from the motion input by the stimulation method instruction unit 3. After that, the process proceeds to S113.

  When it is recognized in S102 that the mode is not the stroke mode, the control means 5 A proceeds to S104 and determines whether or not it is the character transmission mode. If it is recognized in S104 that the character transmission mode is selected, the control means 5 proceeds to S105 and recognizes a character element as a necessary parameter from the motion input by the stimulation method instruction means 3. After recognizing the character element, the process proceeds to S113.

  When it is recognized that the character transmission mode is not set in S104, the control means 5 proceeds to S106 and determines whether the mode is the tonton mode. When it is recognized in S106 that the mode is the tonton mode, the control means 5 proceeds to S107, and acquires the rhythm and strength as necessary parameters from the motion input by the stimulation method instruction means 3. After acquiring the rhythm and strength, the process proceeds to S113.

  When it is recognized in S106 that the mode is not the tonton mode, the control means 5 proceeds to S108 and determines whether or not the mode is the radiation stimulation mode. When it is recognized in S108 that the radiation stimulation mode is selected, the control means 5 goes to S109, and acquires speed and strength as necessary parameters from the motion input by the stimulation method instruction means 3. After acquiring the speed and strength, the process proceeds to S113.

  When it is recognized in S108 that the mode is not the radiation stimulation mode, the control unit 5 proceeds to S110 and determines whether or not the mode is the pinch mode. When it is recognized in S110 that the mode is the pinch mode, the control means 5 advances to S111, and acquires speed and strength as necessary parameters from the motion input by the stimulation method instruction means 3. After acquiring the speed and strength, the process proceeds to S113.

  Since it is normal mode when it is recognized that it is not the pinch mode in S110, the control means 5 goes to S112, and the direction and strength as the position, speed and necessary parameters from the movement input by the stimulation method instruction means 3 To get. After obtaining the direction and strength, the process proceeds to S113.

  In S113, the control means 5 A creates a communication message of stimulation method instruction information describing the parameter values necessary for each mode and each mode, and transmits it to the communication means 4. The communication means 4 transmits the transmitted communication message to the second party.

  The transmitted communication text is received by the communication means 4 of the second tactile stimulation communication device 1 and transmitted to the second control means 5 (hereinafter referred to as the control means 5 second) (S114). The control means 5B obtains the mode information and the parameters necessary for each mode from the communication text, and determines whether the mode is the mode and the mode (S115). If the mode is the nadir mode, the process proceeds to S116, and the control means 5B sends a control signal for tactile stimulation in the same direction over the entire specified width at the speed, direction and strength specified by the parameters. It outputs to the tactile stimulus output means 2 (hereinafter referred to as tactile stimulus output means 2 B). The tactile stimulus output means 2 B operates in accordance with the input control signal and moves a tactile stimulator described later to stimulate the tactile sense on the target surface of the tactile stimulus.

  If it is determined in S115 that the stroke mode is not selected, the process proceeds to S117, and it is determined whether the character transmission mode is set. If it is recognized that it is the character transmission mode, the process proceeds to S118, and the control means 5B outputs a control signal expressing the designated character element with a motion registered in advance to the tactile stimulus output means 2B. The tactile stimulus output means 2 B operates in accordance with the input control signal and moves a tactile stimulator described later to stimulate the tactile sense on the target surface of the tactile stimulus.

  If it is determined in S117 that the character transmission mode is not selected, the process proceeds to S119, and it is determined whether the character transmission mode is selected. If it is determined that the mode is the tonton mode, the process proceeds to S120, and the control means 5B outputs a control signal to be tapped with the rhythm and strength specified by the parameters to the tactile stimulus output means 2B. The tactile stimulus output means 2 B operates in accordance with the input control signal and moves a tactile stimulator described later to stimulate the tactile sense on the target surface of the tactile stimulus.

  If it is determined in S119 that the mode is not the tonton mode, the process proceeds to S121, and it is determined whether or not the mode is the radiation stimulation mode. In the case of the radiation stimulation mode, the process proceeds to S122, and the control unit 5B outputs a control signal for the stimulus to move radially at the speed and strength specified by the parameters to the tactile stimulus output unit 2B. The tactile stimulus output means 2 B operates in accordance with the input control signal and moves a tactile stimulator described later to stimulate the tactile sense on the target surface of the tactile stimulus.

  When it is determined in S121 that the mode is not the radiation stimulation mode, the process proceeds to S123, and it is determined whether or not the mode is the pinch mode. In the case of the scissor mode, the process proceeds to S124, and the control means 5B outputs a control signal for stimulating a random position at the speed and strength specified by the parameters to the tactile stimulus output means 2B. The tactile stimulus output means 2 B operates in accordance with the input control signal and moves a tactile stimulator described later to stimulate the tactile sense on the target surface of the tactile stimulus.

  If it is determined that the mode is not the pinch mode in S123, it is recognized that the mode is the normal mode, and the process proceeds to S125, where the control means 5 outputs a control signal for tactile stimulation with the position, speed, direction, and strength specified by the parameters. Output means 2 Outputs to B. The tactile stimulus output means 2 B operates in accordance with the input control signal and moves a tactile stimulator described later to stimulate the tactile sense on the target surface of the tactile stimulus.

  When the tactile stimulus output means 2B stimulates the tactile sense on the tactile stimulus target surface, the process proceeds to S126, and it is determined whether the communication is finished. If communication has not ended, the process returns to S101 and the above procedure is repeated.

  Similarly, the instruction content input by the stimulation method instruction means 3 of the second tactile stimulation communication device 1 is also transmitted and received, and the tactile stimulus output means 2 of the first tactile stimulation communication device 1 operates to sense the tactile sense of the first tactile stimulation target surface. Is stimulated. This procedure is repeated until the end of communication.

Next, a configuration example of the tactile stimulus output means 2 will be described.
(First example of tactile stimulus output means 2)
FIG. 9 shows a planar arrangement of a first example of the haptic stimulus output means 2 in the haptic stimulus communication apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The tactile stimulus output means 2 shown in FIG. 9 includes a circular tactile stimulus support plate 41 and a plurality of tactile stimulus 42 that are supported by the touch sense stimulus support plate 41 and move independently from each other. ing. When the arrangement interval of the tactile stimulators 42 is 4 mm or less, it is possible to give the user a sense of stroking quite realistically.

FIG. 10 shows a sectional view of a first example of the tactile stimulus output means 2 according to the first embodiment. In the first example shown in FIG. 10, the tactile stimulator support plate 41 has a convex shape along the palm 43 that receives the tactile stimulus. The tactile stimulator support plate 41 is supported in contact with a palm 43 that receives tactile stimulation. In other words, when the housing 6 is placed on the palm 43, the palm is depressed according to the convex shape of the tactile stimulator support plate 41 so as to contact the entire lower surface of the tactile stimulator support plate 41. Then, the tactile stimulator 42 protrudes from the hole of the tactile stimulus support plate 41 by driving means described later, thereby contacting the palm 43 holding the tactile stimulus output means, and giving tactile stimuli. When a tactile stimulus is not applied, the tactile stimulus 42 is located inside the tactile stimulus support plate 41 and does not contact the palm 43. If the driving force of the driving means is strong, it is possible to give a pressure sense stimulus. Since the tactile stimulus support plate 41 has a convex shape, the tactile stimulus 42 provides the palm 43 with the same stimulus with the same amount of protrusion regardless of the position in the tactile stimulus support plate 41. Is possible.
(Second example of tactile stimulus output means 2)
FIG. 11 shows a sectional view of a second example of the tactile stimulus output means 2 according to the first embodiment. The planar arrangement of the second example of the tactile stimulus output means 2 is the same as that shown in FIG. In the second example whose sectional view is shown in FIG. 11, a frame 44 is attached around the tactile stimulator support plate 41. The frame 44 is supported by being in contact with the palm 43, and the tactile stimulator support plate 41 is not in contact with the palm 43. A distance is maintained between the palm 43 and the tactile stimulator support plate 41 by the frame 44. When no tactile stimulus is applied, the tip of the tactile stimulator 42 is in a position not in contact with the palm. When tactile stimulation is applied, the tip of the tactile stimulator 42 is moved to a position in contact with the palm 43 by driving means described later, and tactile stimulation is applied. The tactile stimulator 42 is controlled by being instructed to press against the palm of the hand.
(Third example of tactile stimulus output means 2)
FIG. 12 is a sectional view of a third example of the tactile stimulus output means 2 according to the first embodiment. The planar arrangement of the third example of the tactile stimulus output means 2 is the same as that shown in FIG. The third example shown in FIG. 12 is different from the second example shown in FIG. 11 in that the tactile stimulator support plate 41 is flat and the tactile stimulator 42 is in the hole of the tactile stimulator support plate 41. It is a point that is inserted but not fixed.

  When the housing 6 is placed on the palm 43 with the tactile stimulus output means 2 facing the palm 43 (with the tactile stimulus output means 2 facing downward), the tactile stimulus 42 is in the hole of the tactile stimulus support plate 41. And is supported by the palm 43 until it comes into contact with the palm 43. Then, the tactile stimulator 42 gives tactile stimuli by moving away from the palm 43 by driving means described later, touching again after leaving the palm 43, or pressing the palm 43.

The stopper 48 is larger than the hole of the tactile stimulus support plate 41 provided so that the tactile stimulus 42 does not fall out of the tactile stimulus support plate 41 when the tactile stimulus communication device 1 is lifted. When the tactile stimulus output means 2 is supported by the palm 43 by the frame 44, the tactile stimulator 42 has a length that can sufficiently reach the concave portion of the palm 43. In FIG. 12, the lengths of the tactile stimulators 42 are variously different. This is because the positions of the stoppers 48 are aligned with the tips of the tactile stimulators 42 being in contact with the palm 43 to drive the tactile stimulators 42. This is to facilitate the configuration of the driving means.
Since the force and the position are adjusted based on the state in which the tactile stimulator 42 is in contact with the palm 43, any tactile stimulator 42 can always stimulate the palm 43 regardless of the unevenness of the palm 43.

The stimulus applied in the configuration of FIGS. 9 to 12 is a stimulus in a direction substantially perpendicular to the palm 43 that receives a tactile stimulus. There is no movement in the tangential direction with respect to the palm 43 receiving the tactile stimulus, but it is similar to the case where the stimulus is received in the tangential direction by arranging the tactile stimulators 42 with high density at small intervals and sequentially moving the stimulation positions. Can give a sense. Hereinafter, a direction substantially perpendicular to the palm 43 receiving the tactile stimulus is referred to as a vertical direction, and a substantially tangential direction of the palm 43 receiving the tactile stimulus is referred to as a tangential direction.
(Fourth example of tactile stimulus output means 2)
FIG. 13 is a sectional view of a fourth example of the tactile stimulus output means 2 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In the fourth example shown in FIG. 13, the tactile stimulator support plate 41 is supported by a frame 44, and the frame 44 is in contact with the palm 43 to support the tactile stimulator support plate 41. The tactile stimulator 42 is moved to an arbitrary position by driving means described later to give a stimulus. In this method, a stimulus of movement in the tangential direction can be given to the palm. Therefore, it is suitable for giving a feeling of stroking and a feeling of drawing characters. However, it is difficult to create a mechanism for driving many tactile stimulators 42 in the case 6 having a size on the palm of the hand, and it is also difficult to realize a mechanism for quickly moving the tactile stimulators 42 to an arbitrary position. It is difficult to execute the radiation stimulation mode and the scissor mode.
(Fifth example of tactile stimulus output means 2)
FIG. 14 shows a cross-sectional view of a fifth example of the tactile stimulus output means 2 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In the fifth example shown in FIG. 14, a tactile stimulus 42 is fixed to a flexible tactile stimulus support plate 41, and the tactile stimulus 42 and the tactile stimulus support plate are brought into contact with the palm 43. The tactile stimulus output means 2 is supported by the palm 43 through 41. Then, the tactile stimulator 42 is moved in the tangential direction by the driving means described later, thereby stimulating the palm 43. The tactile stimulator support plate 41 is made of a flexible material that allows the tactile stimulator 42 to be displaced along the concave shape of the palm 43.

Further, since the tactile stimulator 42 can be displaced so as to follow the convex shape, it can also be used on a convex part of the body such as a cheek as shown in FIG. In the figure, a hand 45 that supports the tactile stimulation communication device supports the tactile stimulation communication device 1, and a tactile stimulator 42 is brought into contact with the cheek 47 portion of the face 46 to receive tactile stimulation on the cheek 47. When used in such a state, it is difficult to instruct the stimulation method with the stimulation method instruction unit 3 while receiving the tactile stimulation on the cheek even if the stimulation method instruction unit 3 is provided on the opposite surface of the tactile stimulation output unit 2. . Therefore, it is desirable not to use the tactile stimulus output means 2 and the stimulation method instruction means 3 at the same time, or to provide the stimulation method instruction means 3 and the tactile stimulus output means 2 in separate casings.
(Sixth example of tactile stimulus output means 2)
FIG. 16 is a sectional view of a sixth example of the tactile stimulus output means 2 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Similar to the third example shown in FIG. 12, the sixth example of the tactile stimulus output means 2 is supported by the unfixed tactile stimulator 42 contacting the palm 43, and the stopper 48 has a tactile sense. It is larger than the hole of the tactile stimulator support plate 41 so that the tactile stimulator 42 does not fall off when the stimulus communication device 1 is lifted. Further, since the tactile stimulator 42 is long enough to reach the concave portion of the palm 43, the tactile stimulator 42 is always in contact with the palm 43, so that the tactile stimulator 42 is always in the palm regardless of the position in the tactile stimulator support plate 41. 43 can be stimulated. The example shown in FIG. 16 is different from the example shown in FIG. 12 in that the tactile stimulator support plate 41 is formed in a concave shape that matches the concave shape of the palm 43, and the tactile stimulus 42 is driven by the driving means described later. It is a point to give a stimulus by moving in the tangential direction.

  Since the sensitivity when receiving a stimulus varies depending on the person, it is desirable to provide the tactile stimulus output means 2 with adjusting means that allows the person who receives the stimulus to adjust the strength range of the stimulus and the strength that serves as a strength reference. .

  In the first embodiment, the operation input to the stimulation method instruction unit 3 is output by the tactile stimulus output unit 2, but the tactile stimulus output unit 2 may be used as an output unit of stimulation method instruction information generated by a computer. For example, if the stimulation method instruction information is generated by a personal computer or a game machine and is output by the tactile stimulus output means 2, it is possible to tactilely output character information that is conventionally output visually on the screen. Further, if a tactile stimulus is output from the tactile stimulus output means 2 while displaying the virtual character on the screen, it is possible to give a feeling that the virtual character is touched.

  Further, the tactile stimulus output means 2 may be built in the palm of the stuffed animal. When it is built in the palm of a stuffed animal, it can be stimulated by shaking the hand with the stuffed toy, or it can be stimulated by placing the stuffed hand on the cheek or other body. You can feel as if you are stroking a stuffed toy and having a conversation with the stuffed toy.

Next, driving means for moving the above-described haptic stimulator 42 will be described. 17 to 22 show examples of the driving means of the tactile stimulus output means 2 in the respective embodiments of the present invention.
(First example of driving means of tactile stimulus output means 2)
FIG. 17 shows a first example of the driving means of the haptic stimulus output means 2 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The driving means shown in the figure is applied to drive the haptic stimulator 42 of the haptic stimulus output means 2 shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, for example, one at the connection point 54 and the base 55 to the other at the connection point 52. A current is passed through the shape memory alloy spring 51 fixed to the child 42, one opposing spring 57 fixed to the tactile stimulator support plate 41 and the other fixed to the tactile stimulator 42, and the shape memory alloy spring 51. And a power supply (not shown). A connection point 54 between the shape memory alloy spring 51 and the base 55 is connected to one electrode of the power source through a base conductor 56, and a connection point 52 between the shape memory alloy spring 51 and the tactile stimulator 42 is connected to the power source through a conductor 53. Is connected to the other electrode.

  When the shape memory alloy spring 51 is in a cold state (state in which no current flows), as shown in FIG. 17A, the shape memory alloy spring 51 is contracted by the force of the opposing spring 57, and the tip of the tactile stimulator 42 (opposite the palm). The end portion of the tactile stimulator support plate 41 is located above the lower surface (the surface facing the palm, the same applies hereinafter) of the tactile stimulator support plate 41 in the drawing. When a voltage is applied between the connection point 54 and the connection point 52, a current flows through the shape memory alloy spring 51, and as shown in FIG. 17B, it generates heat and becomes hard and stretches. Accordingly, the haptic stimulator 42 protrudes downward from the haptic stimulator support plate 41.

  A pressure sensor (not shown) is built in the tip of the tactile stimulator 42, and a control signal output from the control means 5 to the tactile stimulus output means 2 is sent to each of the tactile stimulators 42. Set the output value in time series. The tactile stimulus output means 2 controls the voltage applied between the connection point 54 and the connection point 52 based on the detection value of the pressure sensor so that the detection value becomes the set value.

This drive system has the advantage of being compact and light, having a large impact output, and being able to give a strong pushing force stimulus, but since it uses heat, the response is slow and a cooling means for cooling the shape memory alloy spring 51 is required. It is.
(Second Example of Driving Unit of Tactile Stimulus Output Unit 2)
FIG. 18 shows a second example of the driving means of the haptic stimulus output means 2 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The driving means shown in the figure is applied to the driving of the haptic stimulator 42 of the haptic stimulus output means 2 shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 as in the first example of the driving means. An electromagnet 65 coupled to an end (the end on the side not facing the palm; the same applies hereinafter); and a fixed magnet 61 installed on the upper surface of the tactile stimulator support plate 41 (the surface not facing the palm; the same applies hereinafter); A fixed magnet 62, a fixed magnet 63, a fixed magnet 64, and a power source (not shown) that supplies current to the electromagnet 65 are configured, and the tactile stimulator 42 is driven by the magnet.

  The electromagnet 65 is attached so that the straight line connecting the two magnetic poles and the moving direction of the haptic stimulator 42 are orthogonal. The poles of the voltage applied to the winding start conducting wire 66 and the winding end conducting wire 67 of the electromagnet 65 can be changed. The fixed magnet 62 and the fixed magnet 64 are positioned so as to face the magnetic poles of the electromagnet 65 when the haptic stimulator 42 is in a position where it does not protrude from the haptic stimulator support plate 41 (position (a) in FIG. 18). The fixed magnet 61 and the fixed magnet 63 are installed such that the tactile stimulator 42 faces the magnetic pole of the electromagnet 65 when the tactile stimulator 42 is in a position protruding from the tactile stimulator support plate 41 (position (b) in FIG. 18). Is installed. Further, the fixed magnet facing the electromagnet 65 is provided such that the magnetic poles thereof are reversed between the position where the tactile stimulator 42 does not protrude from the tactile stimulator support plate 41 and the position where it protrudes.

  According to the above configuration, the direction of the magnetic force generated in the electromagnet 65 is changed by changing the voltage poles applied to the winding start conductor 66 and the winding end conductor 67 of the electromagnet 65, and the electromagnet 65 attracts the fixed magnet 62 and the fixed magnet 64. Sometimes the tactile stimulator 42 is held at a position where it does not protrude from the tactile stimulator support plate 41 (FIG. 18A), and when the electromagnet 65 is attracted to the fixed magnet 61 and the fixed magnet 63, the tactile stimulator 42 supports the tactile stimulator. It is held at a position protruding from the plate 41 (FIG. 18B).

  A pressure sensor (not shown) is built in the tip of the tactile stimulator 42, and a control signal output from the control means 5 to the tactile stimulus output means 2 is sent to each of the tactile stimulators 42. Set the output value in time series. The tactile stimulus output means 2 controls the voltage applied between the conductor 67 and the conductor 66 so that the detected value becomes the set value based on the detected value of the pressure sensor.

Since this driving method has an advantage of quick response, it can produce a crisp output and is suitable for the ton-ton mode. Further, although electric power is always required to hold the tactile stimulator 42, the force to return the tactile stimulator 42 to a position where it does not protrude is not necessary if it is given by a sponge or a spring.
(Third example of drive means of tactile stimulus output means 2)
FIG. 19 shows a third example of the driving means of the haptic stimulus output means 2 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The illustrated driving means is, for example, a driving means for the haptic stimulator 42 for realizing the haptic stimulus output means shown in FIG. The driving means shown in FIG. 19 also drives the tactile stimulator 42 with a magnet, and includes a permanent magnet 71 attached to the rear end of the tactile stimulator 42, an electromagnet 72 installed around the permanent magnet 71, and an electromagnet. And a power source (not shown) for supplying a current to 72. The electromagnet 72 is supported on the upper surface of the tactile stimulator support plate 41 so that the voltage poles applied to the winding start conductor 74 and the winding end conductor 73 of the electromagnet 72 can be changed. The permanent magnet 71 is attached in a direction in which the straight line connecting the two magnetic poles and the moving direction of the tactile stimulator 42 are parallel to each other.

  Also in this example, as in the first and second examples, the values of the voltages applied to the winding start conductor 74 and the winding end conductor 73 are the outputs of the pressure sensor attached to the tip of the tactile stimulator 42. Controlled based on.

  According to the above configuration, the direction of the magnetic force generated in the electromagnet 72 is changed by changing the voltage pole applied to the winding start conducting wire 74 and the winding end conducting wire 73 of the electromagnet 72, and the electromagnet 72 attracts or repels the permanent magnet 71. To do. Accordingly, the tactile stimulator 42 moves. When a voltage is applied to the electromagnet 72 in a direction attracting the permanent magnet 71 in a state where the tactile stimulator 42 is placed on the palm 43 receiving the tactile stimulus ((a) in FIG. 19), a feeling of pressing force ((b) in FIG. 19) is generated. Can be given. Further, when the voltage direction is switched alternately, the haptic stimulator 42 can repeat contact and non-contact with the palm 43 to give a feeling of vibration and tapping.

In the drive system using magnets as shown in FIG. 18 and FIG. 19, the smaller the magnet is, the weaker the magnetic force that is generated.
(Fourth example of drive means of tactile stimulus output means 2)
FIG. 20 shows a fourth example of the driving means of the haptic stimulus output means 2 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The drive means shown in FIG. 20 is a drive means for the haptic stimulator 42 for realizing the haptic stimulus output means shown in FIG. 13, for example, FIG. 20 (a) is a front view, and FIG. 20 (b) is a front view. 20A is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 20, and FIG. 20C is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG. The illustrated driving means according to the eleventh embodiment moves the tactile stimulator 42 within the surface of the tactile stimulator support plate 41 by a motor, and performs contact non-contact driving with the palm 43 by a solenoid.

  A fourth example of the driving means shown in FIG. 20 includes a cylindrical frame 44, an annular flange 44a projecting in a shelf shape on the inner peripheral surface of the frame 44, and a peripheral edge on the upper surface of the flange 44a. A tactile stimulator support plate 41, which is a wok pan-shaped disk supported and mounted so as to be rotatable about the axis of the frame 44, and a linear shape passing through the center of the tactile stimulator support plate 41 are formed. A slit 88, a shaft support plate 85 erected from the periphery of the tactile stimulator support plate 41 in parallel to the slit 88 at a position away from the center of the upper surface of the tactile stimulator support plate 41, and a shaft support plate 85, a slit 85a formed in parallel with the lower end of the shaft support plate 85 and over almost the entire length of the shaft support plate 85, and one end portion in the diametrical direction perpendicular to the slit 88 of the tactile stimulator support plate 41. Next, make the axis parallel to the generatrix of the peripheral wall of the frame 44 A circumferential drive motor 81 attached thereto, a circumferential drive roller 81a attached to a drive shaft of the circumferential drive motor 81 and having the circumferential surface abutted against the inner circumferential surface of the frame 44, and a tactile sense The other end of the stimulator support plate 41 in the diametrical direction perpendicular to the slit 88 is attached with the axis parallel to the generatrix of the peripheral wall of the frame 44 and the circumferential surface abutting against the inner peripheral surface of the frame 44. The pressing roller 82, the shaft 90 inserted through the slit 85a, the roller 84 attached to the shaft 90 and supported by contacting the upper surface of the tactile stimulator support plate 41, and the shaft 90. A diameter direction drive motor 83 that rotates and rotates, a moving plate 86 that supports the diameter direction driving motor 83, a pair of solenoids 87 installed on the moving plate 86 with the axis line parallel to the axis line of the frame 44, and a pair of solenoids 87 each Centrally located, and is configured to include a tactile stimulator 42 is movable in the vertical direction through holes and the slits 88 formed in the moving plate 86, the.

  The circumferential drive motor 81 is fixed to the wok-like circular tactile stimulator support plate 41, and drives the circumferential drive roller 81 a in contact with the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical frame 44 for tactile stimulation. The child support plate 41 is rotated relatively concentrically with respect to the frame 44. A pressing roller 82 is disposed at the position of the counter electrode of the circumferential driving motor roller 81, and the circumferential driving roller 81 a is pressed against the inner peripheral surface of the frame 44 by pressing the circumferential surface of the pressing roller 82 against the inner peripheral surface of the frame 44. Is pressed against.

  The diametric drive motor 83 rotates the roller 84 that is in contact with the tactile stimulator support plate 41. The shaft support plate 85 supports the shaft of the diametric drive motor 83 so as to press the roller 84 against the tactile stimulator support plate 41. When the roller 84 rotates, the moving plate 86 moves along the slit 88 in the diameter direction of the tactile stimulator support plate 41, and the tactile stimulator 42 attached to the solenoid 87 and the solenoid 87 also moves along the slit 88. To do. When the solenoid 87 is excited, the haptic stimulator 42 protrudes downward from the slit 88 in the figure.

  The control means 5 is a control signal in which the rotation start / stop signals of the circumferential direction drive motor 81 and the diameter direction drive motor 83 and the set value of the output of the pressure sensor mounted on the tactile stimulator 42 change in time series. Output. Also in this example, as in the first to third examples, the values of the voltages applied to the winding start lead wire and the winding end lead wire of the solenoid 87 are the outputs of the pressure sensor attached to the tip of the tactile stimulator 42. Controlled based on.

  With the above configuration, the tactile stimulator 42 can move to an arbitrary position in the frame 44 and protrude below the tactile stimulator support plate 41 to give a contact stimulus and a press stimulus to the palm 43 that receives the tactile stimulus. Further, by moving the tactile stimulator 42 while protruding below the tactile stimulator support plate 41, a tangential stimulus can be applied to the palm 43. By providing a plurality of solenoids 87 and tactile stimulators 42 on the moving plate 86, the strength and width of the stimulation can be changed. If tactile stimulators 42 of different materials and diameters are provided, different tactile stimuli can be given.

In the first to fourth examples, the pressure sensor is provided at the tip of the tactile stimulator 42 to control the voltage. However, the force acting in the axial direction on the tactile stimulus 42 is not limited to the pressure sensor. Anything that can be detected is acceptable. For example, if a spring is incorporated in the middle part in the longitudinal direction of the haptic stimulator 42 and the drive part of the haptic stimulator 42 is arranged behind the spring, the force acting in the axial direction on the haptic stimulator 42 is used as the amount of expansion and contraction of the spring. Can be detected. The voltage may be controlled based on the amount of expansion / contraction.
(Fifth example of tactile stimulus output means 2)
FIG. 21 shows a fifth example of the tactile stimulus output means 2 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The drive means shown in FIG. 21 is applied to, for example, the tactile stimulus output means shown in FIG. 14, and moves the tactile stimulus 42 by surface deformation. That is, the driving means shown in FIG. 21 includes a flat flexible electrode 91 and electrode 92 parallel to the tactile stimulator support plate 41, a thin dielectric elastic body 93 sandwiched between the electrode 91 and electrode 92, and an electrode. 91 and a power source (not shown) for applying a voltage to the electrode 92.

  The tactile stimulus 42 is fixed to the lower surface of the electrode 91 on the side close to the tactile stimulus support plate 41 with the axis orthogonal to the electrode surface. The tactile stimulator 42 is moved by deforming a surface (tactile stimulator holding surface) composed of the electrode 91 and the electrode 92 and the thin dielectric elastic body 93 sandwiched between the electrode 91 and the electrode 92. The electrode 92 is divided into portions corresponding to the respective tactile stimulators 42, and one tactile stimulator 42 is also divided into several parts so as to correspond to the operation direction of the tactile stimulators 42. And each part can be energized.

  As shown to (a) of FIG. 21, the conducting wire 94 is attached to the electrode 91, and the conducting wire 95 is attached to the electrode 92 for every divided | segmented part. Among these, when a voltage is applied between the conducting wire 95 of the electrode 92 and the conducting wire 94 of the electrode 91 at the position to be moved, the charges in the electrodes attract each other, and the dielectric elastic body 93 therebetween is deformed. As a result, as shown in FIG. 21B, the tactile stimulator 42 moves.

  The control unit 5 generates and outputs a control signal that defines the operation of each tactile stimulator 42 based on the stimulation method instruction information transmitted from the communication unit 4, and the drive unit needs the electrode 92 based on the control signal. Energize the critical part.

Depending on the relative arrangement and shape of the electrode 91 and the electrode 92 with respect to the tactile stimulator 42, the tactile stimulator 42 can be moved in the tangential direction or the vertical direction of the palm 43. Since the driving force based on this principle is large, there is an advantage that a strong stimulus can be given.
(Sixth example of tactile stimulus output means 2)
FIG. 22 shows a sixth example of the tactile stimulus output means 2 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The drive means shown in FIG. 22 is applied to drive the haptic stimulator 42 for realizing the haptic stimulus output means shown in FIG. 16, for example.

  The driving means shown in FIG. 22 moves the tactile stimulator 42 by a piezoelectric element, and includes a piezoelectric element 301 attached to the rear end of the tactile stimulator 42, a power supply 302 that applies an AC voltage to the piezoelectric element 301, The haptic stimulator 42 is configured to include a flexible fixing material 303 that keeps the tactile stimulus 42 in contact with a tactile stimulation output target surface (for example, a palm), and a base 55 that supports the flexible fixing material 303.

  In the driving means configured as described above, when an AC voltage is applied to the piezoelectric element 301 by the power supply 302, the piezoelectric element 301 vibrates, and accordingly, the tactile stimulator 42 also vibrates. Accordingly, when an AC voltage is applied to the piezoelectric element 301 in a state where the tactile stimulator 42 is placed on the palm 43, vibration stimulation can be applied to the palm 43. The flexible fixing material 303 keeps the tactile stimulator 42 in contact with the palm 43.

This method has the advantage of good responsiveness. In addition, since any frequency stimulus can be applied, stimulation of various material feelings can be applied using the human body characteristic that the material feeling changes when the frequency changes. There are various types of piezoelectric elements, such as those that output bending vibration and those that output axial vibration, so that various stimuli can be applied by changing the piezoelectric element.
(First example of stimulation method instruction means 3)
Next, a first example of the stimulation method instruction unit 3 of the tactile stimulation communication apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 23 shows a configuration of a first example of the stimulation method instruction means 3. The illustrated stimulation method instruction means includes a circular base 201, a plurality of pressure sensitive sensors 203 disposed on the base 201, and a soft cover 202 that covers the entire pressure sensitive sensor 203.

  When an operation such as stroking or drawing characters is performed on the soft cover 202, pressure is applied to the pressure sensor 203, and each pressure sensor 203 converts the detected pressure into a signal and transmits the signal to the control means 5. Based on the signal input from each pressure-sensitive sensor 203, the control means 5 determines the direction of the operation and the speed of the operation from the change in the strength of the operation, the position (range) where the operation is performed, and the position where the pressure is detected Are detected, and it is determined which of the modes a to f is input, and a parameter to be attached to the determined mode is acquired. When the mode instructing unit as shown in FIG. 8 is provided, it is determined based on the signal transmitted from the mode instructing unit which of the modes a to f is input.

By covering the pressure sensor 203 with a soft cover 202 that feels like human skin, when the user inputs an action, the user feels as if he / she actually touches the skin. In order to accurately detect an input operation, it is desirable that small pressure-sensitive sensors 203 are arranged closely.
(Second example of stimulation method instruction means 3)
Next, a second example of the stimulation method instruction means 3 of the tactile stimulation communication apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 24 shows the configuration of the stimulation method instruction means 3 according to the second example. The illustrated stimulation method instructing means 3 includes a circular base 201, strip-shaped electrodes 204 arranged in a grid pattern on the circular base 201, a power source (not shown) for applying a voltage to the strip-shaped electrodes 204, a strip-shaped And a soft cover 202 that covers the entire electrode 204.

  The intersection of the electrodes 204 is insulated, and when the human body approaches with the voltage applied to the electrode 204, the electric charge escapes to the human body, so that the voltage changes and the proximity of the human body is detected. Since the electrodes 204 are arranged in a grid pattern, the intersection of the electrodes whose voltage has changed is the human body approaching portion. Since it can be detected only by approaching without contact, it can be detected even when the pressing force is very small, or it can be detected even if it is covered with the soft cover 202. When the pressing strength is also detected, a large number of pressure sensitive sensors may be arranged between the base 201 and the electrode 204 as shown in FIG. 23, or at a position where the force applied to the entire base 201 can be detected. May be attached.

  FIG. 3 shows a second embodiment of the tactile stimulus communication apparatus according to the present invention. The tactile stimulation communication device shown in FIG. 3 is connected to the external communication device 9 by the connection cable 11, and the communication means and the power source are those built in the external communication device 9. A personal computer is used as the external communication device 9. The connection cable 11 can be realized by using, for example, a USB cable.

  By using the communication means and the power source of a personal computer, the housing 6 placed on the hand can be made small and light, and the burden on the hand during use can be reduced.

  FIG. 4 shows a third embodiment of the tactile stimulus communication apparatus according to the present invention. The tactile stimulation communication device shown in FIG. 4 is connected to the external communication device 9 by the connection cable 11, and the communication and the power source are those built in the external communication device 9. A mobile phone is used as the external communication device 9. The connection cable 11 can be realized by using, for example, a USB cable.

  Also in the present embodiment, as in the case of the third embodiment, the housing 6 placed on the hand can be made small and light, and the burden on the hand during use can be reduced. In addition, since a mobile phone is used as the external communication device 9, there is an advantage that it is easy to move.

  It can be used for communication using a tactile sensation with a person at a remote place and for expression using a tactile sensation from an information device.

It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the tactile stimulus communication apparatus which concerns on Example 1 of this invention. It is a perspective view which shows the external appearance of the tactile stimulus communication apparatus which concerns on Example 1 of this invention. It is a perspective view which shows the external appearance of the tactile stimulus communication apparatus which concerns on Example 2 of this invention. It is a perspective view which shows the external appearance of the tactile stimulus communication apparatus which concerns on Example 3 of this invention. It is a perspective view which shows the usage method of the tactile stimulus communication apparatus which concerns on Example 1 of this invention. It is a conceptual diagram which shows the mode of the tactile stimulation of the tactile stimulation communication apparatus which concerns on Example 1 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of operation | movement of the tactile stimulus communication apparatus which concerns on Example 1 of this invention. It is a perspective view which shows the example which provided the mode instruction | indication means in the tactile stimulus communication apparatus which concerns on Example 1 of this invention. It is a top view which shows the 1st example of the tactile stimulus output means in the tactile stimulus communication apparatus which concerns on Example 1 of this invention. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the tactile stimulus output means shown in FIG. 9. It is sectional drawing which shows the 2nd example of the tactile stimulus output means in the tactile stimulus communication apparatus which concerns on Example 1 of this invention. It is sectional drawing which shows the 3rd example of the tactile stimulus output means in the tactile stimulus communication apparatus which concerns on Example 1 of this invention. It is sectional drawing which shows the 4th example of the tactile stimulus output means in the tactile stimulus communication apparatus which concerns on Example 1 of this invention. It is sectional drawing which shows the 5th example of the tactile stimulus output means in the tactile stimulus communication apparatus which concerns on Example 1 of this invention. It is sectional drawing which shows the other usage example of the 5th example of the tactile stimulus output means in the tactile stimulus communication apparatus which concerns on Example 1 of this invention. It is sectional drawing which shows the 6th example of the tactile stimulus output means in the tactile stimulus communication apparatus which concerns on Example 1 of this invention. It is sectional drawing which shows the 1st example of the drive means of the tactile stimulus output means in the tactile stimulus communication apparatus which concerns on Example 1 of this invention. It is sectional drawing which shows the 2nd example of the drive means of the tactile stimulus output means in the tactile stimulus communication apparatus which concerns on Example 1 of this invention. It is sectional drawing which shows the 3rd example of the drive means of the tactile stimulus output means in the tactile stimulus communication apparatus which concerns on Example 1 of this invention. It is sectional drawing which shows the 4th example of the drive means of the tactile stimulus output means in the tactile stimulus communication apparatus which concerns on Example 1 of this invention. It is sectional drawing which shows the 5th example of the drive means of the tactile stimulus output means in the tactile stimulus communication apparatus which concerns on Example 1 of this invention. It is sectional drawing which shows the 6th example of the drive means of the tactile stimulus output means in the tactile stimulus communication apparatus which concerns on Example 1 of this invention. It is a top view which shows the 1st example of the stimulation method instruction | indication means in the tactile sense communication apparatus which concerns on Example 1 of this invention. It is a top view which shows the 2nd example of the stimulation method instruction | indication means in the tactile stimulation communication apparatus which concerns on Example 1 of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Tactile stimulus communication apparatus 2 Tactile stimulus output means 3 Stimulation method instruction means 4 Communication means 5 Control means 6 Case 9 External communication apparatus 10 Power supply 11 Connection cable 31 Nadenade mode instruction means 32 Character transmission mode instruction means 33 Tonton mode Instructing means 34 Radiation stimulation mode instructing means 35 Saddle mode instructing means 36 Normal mode instructing means 41 Tactile stimulator support plate 42 Tactile stimulator 44 Frame 48 Stopper

Claims (5)

A tactile stimulus output means for driving a tactile stimulus provided on the basis of the input control signal and stimulating the tactile sense of the target surface by the tactile stimulus, and the applied contact stimulus is converted into an electrical signal and output. a stimulation method instruction unit, together to generate a stimulation method indication information indicating stimulation method to output based on the electrical signal, and a control means for converting the stimulus method instruction information to the control signal, the control together to send stimulation method instruction information generated by the means, it comprises a communication means for transmitting to the control means receives the stimulus method instruction information, a housing for interior of each of the units, and
The tactile stimulus output means includes a tactile stimulus support plate having a hole, the tactile stimulus inserted through the hole and arranged to be movable forward and backward, and the tactile stimulus to be driven to drive the tactile stimulus. The tactile stimulator that moves in the axial direction by gravity when the tactile stimulus output means is placed on the target surface for tactile stimulation. A tactile stimulation communication device supported by a target surface, wherein the driving means is configured to drive the tactile stimulator from that state . 2. The tactile stimulus communication device according to claim 1, wherein the tactile stimulus output means is disposed on one surface of the housing, and the stimulation method instruction means is a front-back relationship of the housing surface on which the tactile stimulus output means is disposed. Placed on the housing surface
The tactile stimulus communication apparatus characterized in that the control means outputs the control signal obtained by converting stimulus method instruction information generated based on the electrical signal to the tactile stimulus output means . 3. The tactile stimulation communication device according to claim 1, wherein the driving unit includes a driving unit that moves the tactile stimulator along the tactile stimulation target surface . 4. The tactile stimulus communication apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the tactile stimulus output means has a plurality of stimulus modes and outputs a stimulus that is patterned for each mode. Stimulus communication device. In tactile stimulation communication apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, before Symbol tactile stimulus output unit has a character transmission mode for transmitting tactile, the character transmission mode, the tactile stimulation of the tactile stimulator A tactile stimulus communication device configured to move a position sequentially and represent a character by an order of a tactile stimulus moving direction and a moving direction.

Images