KR102130614B1 - Tactile information supply module - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a tactile information providing module. The tactile information providing module 50 according to the present invention includes: a receiving unit 51 for receiving notification information from the outside; A control unit 52 for converting notification information into a tactile signal; And an operation unit 53 for transmitting tactile information to the user according to the tactile signal, and the operation unit 53 includes a tactile transmission unit 1 composed of magnetic particles and a matrix material, and the tactile transmission unit 1 ) Is characterized by providing tactile information through deformation (10a to 10d, 20a to 20d) by an external magnetic field.

Description

Tactile information providing module {TACTILE INFORMATION SUPPLY MODULE}

The present invention relates to a tactile information providing module. More specifically, the present invention relates to a tactile information providing module that converts notification information received from the outside into a tactile signal and transmits tactile information as a shape change according to an external magnetic field applied to a tactile transmission unit composed of magnetic particles and a matrix material.

Haptics is a technology related to tactile sensation, and specifically refers to a technology that allows a user of an electronic device to feel tactile, force, and movement through a keyboard, mouse, joystick, and touch screen. Conventionally, when electronic devices and humans exchange information, visual transmission has been the main, but recently, haptic technology has been attracting attention for more specific and realistic information transmission.

In general, actuators for haptic technology include inertial actuators, piezoelectric actuators, electroactive polymer actuators (EAP), electrostatic force actuators, and the like. The inertial actuator includes an eccentric motor that vibrates with an eccentric force generated when the motor rotates, and a linear resonant actuator (LRA) that maximizes the intensity of vibration using a resonance frequency. The piezoelectric actuator has a beam shape or a disk shape, and is driven using a piezoelectric element whose size or shape changes instantaneously by an electric field. The electroactive polymer actuator attaches a mass to the electroactive polymer film to generate vibrations by repeated movement of the mass. The electrostatic force actuator is driven by using an attractive force generated between two glass surfaces filled with different charges and a repulsive force generated when the same type of charge is charged.

However, the conventional haptic technology as described above is only to transmit simple vibrations, and there is a limit to transmit emotional information or complex text information. Accordingly, there is a need for research on a tactile information transmission structure and a device applying the same, which can effectively transmit more emotional and more complex information, in addition to transmitting a simple vibration.

Accordingly, the present invention has been devised to solve various problems of the prior art as described above, and an object of the present invention is to provide a tactile information providing module capable of more sensitively transmitting various tactile information.

In addition, the present invention provides a tactile information providing module capable of effectively transmitting more complex information, such as text and figures, as well as simple signals such as an alarm received from the outside as tactile information through a tactile unit configured in at least one cell form. It aims to provide.

The above object of the present invention, a receiving unit for receiving notification information from the outside; A control unit for converting the notification information into a tactile signal; And an operation unit for transmitting tactile information to a user according to the tactile signal, wherein the operation unit includes a tactile transmission unit composed of magnetic particles and a matrix material, and the tactile transmission unit receives the tactile information through deformation by an external magnetic field. It is achieved by a tactile information providing module characterized in that it provides.

According to the present invention configured as described above, there is an effect that can transmit a variety of tactile information more emotionally.

In addition, according to the present invention, it is possible to effectively transmit more complex information such as letters and figures, as well as simple signals such as alarms received from the outside, as tactile information through a tactile unit configured in at least one cell.

1 is a view showing a tactile information providing module according to an embodiment of the present invention.
2 is a view showing a tactile information providing module according to another embodiment of the present invention.
3 is a view showing a shape change according to an external magnetic field of a tactile transmission unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.
4 is a view showing a process of providing tactile information according to an external magnetic field of a tactile transmission unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.
5 is a view showing a process of providing tactile information according to an external magnetic field of a tactile transmission unit according to another embodiment of the present invention.
6 is a view showing various shapes of a tactile transmission unit according to various embodiments of the present invention.
7 is a view showing the configuration of the operation unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.
8 is a view showing a tactile unit including a plurality of cells according to an embodiment of the present invention.
9 to 11 are perspective and side views showing the configuration of the tactile transmission unit and the operation unit according to another embodiment of the present invention.
12 is a view showing an operation process of the operation unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.
13 to 15 are views showing an operation process of the operation unit according to another embodiment of the present invention.
16 to 18 are views showing an example of applying a tactile information providing module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which show examples as examples. These examples are described in detail enough to enable those skilled in the art to practice the present invention. It should be understood that the various embodiments of the invention are different, but need not be mutually exclusive. For example, certain shapes, structures, and characteristics described herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention in relation to one embodiment. In addition, it should be understood that the location or placement of individual components within each disclosed embodiment can be changed without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, the following detailed description is not intended to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention, if appropriately described, is limited only by the appended claims, along with all ranges equivalent to those claimed. In the drawings, similar reference numerals refer to the same or similar functions across various aspects, and length, area, thickness, and the like may be exaggerated for convenience.

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings in order to enable those skilled in the art to easily implement the present invention.

1 is a view showing a tactile information providing module 50 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 1, the tactile information providing module 50 of the present invention may include a reception unit 51, a control unit 52, and an operation unit 53. The tactile information providing module 50 is used by itself, or can be used by attaching an existing device, for example, a mobile communication terminal such as a smart phone, a wearable device such as a smart watch, a bracelet, and the like. have.

The receiving unit 51 may receive notification information from the outside, and can use a known data receiving device without limitation. The notification information should be understood as meaning including not only image information such as text, figures, and symbols that can be transmitted through a wired or wireless communication network, but also information such as simple warning, alarm, and guidance.

The control unit 52 may convert the notification information received by the reception unit 51 into a tactile signal. The tactile signal is a control signal capable of controlling each component of the operation unit 53 and should be understood as a control signal for applying/releasing a magnetic field to a plurality of cells 110 of the tactile unit 100, which will be described later.

The operation unit 53 may provide tactile information to the user according to the tactile signal from the control unit 52. Here, the tactile information includes not only tactile sensations such as vibration, grazing, tightening, slapping, pressing, tapping, slanting, or tickling, but also sensibility, emotion, etc. transmitted through tactile sensation [eg, through a tactile sense of "♡" It should be understood as meaning including conveying the feelings of "I love you" or conveying the feelings of "sad" through the tactile sense of "ㅠㅠ".

The operation unit 53 is mounted on the surface of the tactile information providing module 50 to directly provide tactile information to the user, and is mounted inside the tactile information providing module 50 to indirectly vibrate or tap the user. It can also provide tactile information. FIG. 1 shows a configuration in which the operation unit 53 has a watch shape that can be placed on a user's wrist or the like and can provide tactile information through an inner circumferential surface of a watch band that contacts the user. Of course, the operation unit 53 may be mounted on the entire inner peripheral surface of the watch band, or may be mounted only on a part of the inner peripheral surface. In addition to this, there is no limitation in shape as long as it is within the scope of the purpose of providing tactile information in contact with a user. For example, the tactile information providing module 50 is manufactured in the form of a bracelet, a ring, a ring, ornaments, clothing, etc., as well as a band, and may provide tactile information in a part where a user contacts a part.

2 is a view showing a tactile information providing module 50', 50" according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 2, the tactile information providing module 50 ′ may include a plurality of operation units 53 (53a-53d, 53e-53h). Each of the operation units 53a-53d and 53e-53h may be mounted at different positions. For example, in the tactile information providing module 50' in the form of a band worn on the wrist, one operation unit 53 is on the wrist, the other operation unit 53 is below the wrist, and the other operation unit 53 is provided. ) May provide tactile information by contacting the wrist.

In addition, the operation units 53a-53d and 53e-53h may transmit tactile information of different types (eg, vibration, grazing, tightening, slapping, pressing, tapping, tilting, tickling, etc.).

2(a), the tactile information providing module 50' according to an embodiment has different forms of each operation unit 53a, 53b, 53c, 53d [eg, square, triangle , Circle, etc.] to transmit tactile information in various forms.

2(b), the tactile information providing module 50" according to another embodiment is operated by each of the operation units 53e, 53f, 53g, and 53h corresponding to the person or group that sent the notification information. For example, the action unit 53e is a father, the action unit 53f is a mother, the action unit 53g is a lover, and the action unit 53h is notified by a corresponding person or group according to a friend. When information is sent, tactile information may be transmitted only by the operation units 53e, 53f, 53g, and 53h corresponding thereto.

In addition, the operation unit 53e when a call is received, the operation unit 53f when a text message is received, when an e-mail is received (53g), and when a specific time is announced (53h), tactile information is transmitted. Can be set. In addition to this, each operation unit 53 (53a-53d, 53e-53h) may be variously set to correspond to a specific function.

On the other hand, when the tactile information providing module 50 is used independently, without being coupled to a wearable device or a mobile communication terminal, a power supply unit (not shown) that supplies power to the receiving unit 51, the control unit 52, and the operation unit 53 Poems).

Hereinafter, a structure in which the tactile information providing module 50 of the present invention transmits tactile information will be described in detail.

3 is a view showing a shape change according to an external magnetic field of the tactile transmission unit 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 3, the tactile transmission unit 1 is a magnetic material, for example, nano or micron-sized iron, cobalt, nickel, or ferrite particles, and a matrix material, for example, rubber or other polymer material, etc. It can be composed of.

In addition, the tactile transmission unit 1 has a fine projection shape 10 (see FIG. 4), a hollow cylindrical shape 20 (see FIG. 5), a polyhedron shape, a dome shape, and a plate shape. It may have at least one shape of 30 (see FIG. 9), plate spring shape, seesaw shape (see FIG. 10) or tunnel shape 40 (see FIG. 11).

For example, the tactile transmission unit 1 may be made of a magneto-rheological elastomer (MRE) material to transmit tactile information. The magnetorheological elastic material is an elastic material containing particles capable of reacting to an external magnetic field. Since the elastic material contains magnetic particles such as iron (Fe) that can be magnetized by an external magnetic field, an external magnetic field is applied. By this, properties such as its stiffness, tensile strength, and elongation can be changed.

The tactile transmission unit 1 may have different shapes depending on the influence of an external magnetic field.

Referring to (a) of FIG. 3, when a plurality of tactile transmission units 1 are not affected by an external magnetic field (Off State), that is, the coil unit 210 of the magnetic field generation unit 200 to be described later[ When the magnetic field according to FIG. 7 is not formed, the plurality of tactile transmission units 1 may exhibit first shapes 10a and 20a (see FIGS. 4 and 5 ).

Referring to (b) of FIG. 3, when a part of the plurality of tactile transmission units 1 is affected by an external magnetic field (Local On State), that is, the coil unit 210 of the magnetic field generation unit 200 to be described later ) (See FIG. 7 ), when a magnetic field is formed, a part of the plurality of tactile transmission units 1 may exhibit second shapes 10b and 20b (see FIGS. 4 and 5 ).

4 is a view showing a tactile information providing process according to an external magnetic field of the tactile transmission unit 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 5 is an external magnetic field of the tactile transmission unit 1 according to another embodiment of the present invention FIG. 6 is a view showing a process of providing tactile information, and FIG. 6 is a view showing various shapes of a tactile transmission unit according to various embodiments of the present invention.

First, referring to FIG. 4, the tactile transmission unit 1 may have a microscopic projection 10 shape. The shape of the fine protrusion 10 may have a thickness of about 25 μm or less to be similar to the fleece or the like, or about 100 μm or less to be similar to the hair of the human body, etc. in order to transmit tactile information in detail and emotionally.

As shown in Fig. 4 (a), when not affected by an external magnetic field, the fine protrusion 10 may maintain a slightly inclined shape (or the first shape 10a). Of course, it is possible to have a fine projection shape erected vertically without tilting. Subsequently, as shown in FIG. 4( b), the microscopic projections 10 may further incline or even lie down (or the second shape 10b) when affected by an external magnetic field. Subsequently, as shown in FIGS. 4C and 4D, when the application of the magnetic field is released and is not affected by the external magnetic field, the microscopic projection 10 is the first shape in the second shape 10b. While returning to (10a), it is possible to perform reciprocating motions 10c and 10d by its own elastic force (or recovery force). Therefore, the tactile information that seems to be rubbed or tickled by the fine protrusions 10c and 10d that reciprocate can be transmitted.

Next, referring to FIG. 5, the tactile transmission unit 1 may have a cylindrical shape 20, a dome or polyhedron 20 ′ (see FIG. 6( b)) having an empty interior. FIG. 5(a) is a perspective view of the tactile transmission unit 1 in the shape of a cylinder 20, and FIG. 5(b) is a side cross-sectional view of the tactile transmission unit 1 in the shape of a cylinder 20.

When not affected by an external magnetic field, the cylinder 20 having an empty interior may have a flat shape (or a first shape 20a) with an upper surface 21 as in ①. Subsequently, in the case of being influenced by an external magnetic field, the cylinder 21 may exhibit a shape (or the second shape 20b) in which the upper surface 21 is recessed into the empty inner space as in ②. Subsequently, when the application of the magnetic field is released and is not affected by the external magnetic field, while returning from the second shape 20b to the first shape 20a as in ③ and ④, the upper portion is generated by its elastic force (or recovery force). The surface can reciprocate (20c, 20d). Therefore, the tactile information that seems to be knocked by the cylinders 20c and 20d that reciprocate can be transmitted.

The first shape (10a, 20a) by controlling at least one of the intensity, direction, or frequency (Frequency) of the magnetic field / electric field formed by the magnetic field generating unit 200 (see FIG. 7) in the tactile transmission unit (1) ), it is possible to control at least one of the intensity (magnitude), direction, or frequency of transformation from the second shape (10b, 20b). For example, when a stronger magnetic field is applied, the degree of inclination of the fine protrusions 10 is increased, and the degree of concavity of the upper surface 21 of the cylinder 20 is increased, so tactile information can be transmitted more strongly. In addition, as an example, when the frequency of the magnetic field is changed, the first shape 10a, 20a, the second shape 10b, 20b of the fine protrusion 10 or the cylinder 20, and the first shape 10a, 20a again Since the rate of change to, the tactile information of various feelings can be transmitted.

Referring to FIG. 6, the tactile transmission unit 1 may exhibit various shapes in addition to the shape of the microscopic projection 10 or the hollow cylinder 20, the dome or the polyhedron 20 ′.

(1) FIG. 6(a) is an empty cylinder 20, (2) FIG. 6(b) is an empty cube 20' (or polyhedron 20'), (3) 6(c) is a cylindrical hole 20 in which a micro hole 25 is formed on the upper surface and the inside is empty, while air is fine hole in the process of the upper surface reciprocating motions 20c and 20d. 25) is a configuration that can smoothly enter and exit through to increase the durability of the tactile transmission unit (1), (4) Figure 6 (d) is a fine projection (10) and the hollow cylinder (20) ), (5) FIG. 6(e) is a shape in which a plurality of fine holes 25 are formed on the upper surface of the cylinder 20 in addition to the shape of FIG. 6(d), (6) FIG. 6 (F) is a shape in which a plurality of fine holes 25 of FIG. 5(c) are formed, and (7) FIG. 6(g) is various structures 26 on the upper surface of the hollow cylinder 20. ) (For example, a cylinder smaller than the cylinder 20 and having a hollow interior) is combined, (8) FIG. 6(h) shows a dome on the upper surface of the hollow cylinder 20 It shows the shape in which the embossed structure 27 of the form was formed.

As described above, according to the present invention, various tactile information, such as grazing, tickling, and tapping, can be transmitted in a complex manner by configuring the tactile transmission unit 1 in various shapes.

7 is a view showing the configuration of the operation unit 53 according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 8 is a view showing a tactile unit 100 including a plurality of cells 110 according to an embodiment of the present invention to be.

Referring to FIG. 7, the operation unit 53 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a tactile unit 100 and a magnetic field generating unit 200, and the tactile unit 100 includes at least one tactile transmission unit ( Characterized in that 1) is installed.

The tactile unit 100 is a part that actually transmits tactile information by contacting a user of the tactile information providing module 50. The tactile unit 100 may include at least one cell (Cell) 110. The size of the cell 110 may be appropriately set in consideration of the size of the tactile unit 100 and the resolution of the tactile information to be provided.

The cell 110 may include at least one tactile transmission unit 1. The cell 110 may include one or more types of tactile transmission units 1. In addition, each of the cells 110, such as the operation unit 53' shown in Figure 8, various types of tactile transmission units 1, for example, fine projections 10, hollow cylinders 20, etc. It may be composed of.

The magnetic field generating unit 200 may form a magnetic field and may include at least one coil unit 210. The magnetic field generating unit 200 is disposed below the tactile unit 100, so that each coil unit 210 (or cell 110' containing the coil unit 210) is a tactile unit 100, respectively. It is preferable to correspond to the cell 110 of the. However, if each coil unit 210 is within the scope of the purpose of applying a magnetic field to each cell 110 corresponding thereto, the magnetic field generating unit 200 is not located under the tactile unit 100 and is different It may be located.

As the magnetic field is generated by one coil unit 210, the tactile transmission unit 1 installed in the cell 110 corresponding to the coil unit 210 is formed from the first shape 10a, 20a to the second shape 10b. , 20b). When the magnetic field by the coil unit 210 is extinguished, the tactile transmission unit 1 installed in the cell 110 corresponding to the coil unit 210 is the first shape in the second shape (10b, 20b) Of course, it returns to (10a, 20a).

9 to 11 are perspective and side views showing the configuration of the tactile transmission unit and the operation unit according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 9, the tactile portion 100 is integrally formed on both sides of a plate-shaped tactile transfer portion (1: 30) and a tactile transfer portion 30 and includes a support body 31 having a curved shape can do. And, referring to Figure 10, the tactile portion 100 is formed integrally on both sides of the plate-shaped tactile transmission portion (1: 30) and the tactile transmission portion 30 and includes a support 32 having a wavy shape Can.

Here, the support (31, 32) is further provided between the tactile transmission unit (1: 30) and the magnetic field generating unit 200 can be understood as a configuration in which the operating space of the tactile transmission unit 1 can be secured. . In addition, the support (31, 32) may be a magnetorheological elastic body.

The plurality of tactile transmission parts (1: 30) and the supports (31, 32) form at least one cell, and the plurality of cells may be disposed on the insulator 130 at regular intervals. The coil unit 210 of the magnetic field generator 200 may be formed of a single layer or multiple layers 211 and 212.

Referring to FIG. 9B, the tactile transmission unit 30 and the support body 31 move up and down by the magnetic field generated by the magnetic field generation unit 200, and the shape changes (first shape and second shape). To perform a reciprocating motion. One or all of the cells may move due to the shape change, and accordingly, a tactile feeling may be provided to the user. Here, in addition to the plate shape, the tactile transmission unit 1 may have a shape in which a plurality of plates are overlapped in a plate spring shape.

Referring to (b) of FIG. 10, a support 32 formed of a magnetorheological elastic body is changed in shape by a magnetic field generated by the magnetic field generating unit 200, and one end of the tactile transmission unit 1, such as a seesaw Tilted in the center direction of the magnetic field generating unit 200 (second shape), and when a magnetic field is not generated in the magnetic field generating unit 200, it may return to a circular shape (first shape) by elastic force. That is, by applying a magnetic field to one or all cells, various tactile sensations such as vibration, slapping, tapping, or tilting may be transmitted to the user.

Referring to FIG. 11, the tactile portion 100 includes a tactile transmission portion (1: 40) having a tunnel shape and forming an oval space therein. When a magnetic field is generated by the magnetic field generating unit 200, the tactile transmission unit 1 formed of a magnetorheological elastic body changes shape, and one end of the tactile transmission unit 1 moves in the central direction of the magnetic field generation unit 200, [Second shape] If the magnetic field is not generated in the magnetic field generating unit 200, it may return to the circular shape [first shape] by elastic force. That is, by applying a magnetic field to one cell or all cells, various tactile sensations, such as pinching or tightening, can be transmitted to the user.

12 is a view showing an operation process of the operation unit 53 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

First, referring to (a) of FIG. 12, a magnetic field is not applied to cells A1 to C3 on the tactile unit 100. Therefore, all the fine protrusions 10 on the tactile portion 100 can maintain the first shape 10a.

Subsequently, referring to (b) of FIG. 12, a magnetic field is applied to cells A1 to C3 on the tactile portion 100 so that all the fine protrusions 10 on the tactile portion 100 can maintain the second shape 10b. have.

Subsequently, referring to (c) of FIG. 12, when the application of the magnetic field is released only to the coil unit 210 located at the location corresponding to the cell A1, only the fine protrusions 10 on the cell A1 return to the first structure 10a. It can perform reciprocating motions 10c and 10d by its own elastic force (or recovery force).

Subsequently, referring to (d) of FIG. 12, when the application of the magnetic field is also released to the coil unit 210 located in the cell A2, only the fine protrusions 10 on the cell A2 return to the first structure 10a. It can perform reciprocating motions 10c and 10d by its own elastic force (or recovery force). The microprotrusion 10 on the cell A1 may have a smaller reciprocating size than the microprotrusion 10 on the cell A2.

Subsequently, referring to (e) of FIG. 12, when the application of the magnetic field is also released to the coil unit 210 located in the cell A3, only the fine protrusions 10 on the cell A3 return to the first structure 10a. It can perform reciprocating motions 10c and 10d by its own elastic force (or recovery force). The microprotrusion 10 on the cell A2 may have a smaller reciprocating size than the microprotrusion 10 on the cell A3. At the same time, the magnetic field is again applied to the coil unit 210 located at the location corresponding to the cell A1, so that the fine protrusion 10 on the cell A1 can maintain the second shape 10b.

As described above, when the magnetic fields are applied and released from cells A1 to C3, the fine protrusions 10 on cells A1 to C3 are first in the first shape 10a, second shape 10b, and second shape 10b. Through the process of reciprocating motions 10c and 10d while returning to the shape 10a, the user of the tactile information providing module 50 can provide tactile information sequentially moving from cells A1 to C3.

13 to 15 are views showing an operation process of the operation unit 53 according to another embodiment of the present invention. 13 and 14 show an operation process of the control unit 52 and the operation unit 53 for providing the letter "degree" as tactile information, and FIG. 15 shows the control unit 52 for providing the symbol "♡" as tactile information ) And the operation of the operation unit 53.

The tactile information providing module 50 of the present invention may convert and provide notification information (character form) received from the outside into tactile information. The tactile portion 100 having a plurality of cells 110 arranged in 5 X 5 from cells A1 to E5 is assumed and described.

Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, when the receiving unit 51 receives notification information in the form of a text “degree” from the outside, the control unit 52 may convert it into a tactile signal (control signal). The tactile signal is a signal for controlling a plurality of cells 110 of the tactile unit 100. The tactile signal corresponding to the letter "degree" is a control signal of cells A2, A3, A4, B2, C2, C3, C4, D3, E2, E3, E4 (Fig. 13(a)).

The control unit 52 simultaneously applies/releases magnetic fields to the coil units 210 corresponding to cells A2, A3, A4, B2, C2, C3, C4, D3, E2, E3, and E4, and thus cells A2, A3, A4 , B2, C2, C3, C4, D3, E2, E3, E4 on the tactile transmission unit 1 can be made to simultaneously change the shape and reciprocate (10a ~ 10d, 20a ~ 20d). Accordingly, the tactile information providing module 50 may provide the user with the text “degree” as tactile information similar to Braille.

Or, as shown in Figure 13 (b) and Figure 14, sequentially, cells A2 -> A3 -> A4 -> A3 -> A2 -> B2 -> C2 -> C3 -> C4 -> C3- When >D3 -> E3 -> E2 -> E3 -> E4 is applied and released, the tactile transmission unit 1 on the cell sequentially has first shapes 10a, 20a, and second shapes 10b, 20b. ), through the process of reciprocating (10c, 10d; 20c, 20d) while returning from the second shape (10b, 20b) to the first shape (10a, 20a), text to the user of the tactile information providing module 50" It can be provided as tactile information as if it were delivered by handwriting.

In addition, the tactile information providing module 50 of the present invention may convert and provide notification information (symbol form) received from the outside into tactile information. The tactile portion 100 having a plurality of cells 110 arranged in 5 X 5 from cells A1 to E5 is assumed and described.

Referring to FIG. 15, the reception unit 51 may receive notification information in the form of symbol “♡” from the outside. The sender can send the notification information of "♡" by directly entering the symbol "♡" or by entering a character that can imply the symbol "♡", such as "heart" or "I love you". The controller 52 may convert the notification information into a tactile signal (control signal) in the form of a symbol "♡". The tactile signal corresponding to the symbol "♡" is a control signal of cells A2, A4, B1, B3, B5, C1, C5, D2, D4, E3 (Fig. 15(a)). In other words, even if the sender does not directly input the symbol "♡", "Heart" or "I love you" is input (notification information from outside), and "Heart" or "I love you" is a pre-registered notification in the control unit 52 If it is the same as the information, the control unit 52 can provide tactile information by converting it into a tactile signal (control signal) in the form of the symbol "♡".

The control unit 52 simultaneously applies/releases magnetic fields to the coil units 210 corresponding to the cells A2, A4, B1, B3, B5, C1, C5, D2, D4, and E3, and the cells A2, A4, B1, B3 , B5, C1, C5, D2, D4, E3 on the tactile transmission unit 1 can be made to simultaneously change shape and reciprocate (10a ~ 10d, 20a ~ 20d). Accordingly, the tactile information providing module 50 may provide the user with the symbol "♡" as tactile information similar to Braille.

Alternatively, as shown in (b) of FIG. 16, sequentially, a magnetic field is applied to cells B3 -> A2 -> B5 -> C5 -> D4 -> E3 -> D2 ->C1 -> B1 -> A2 When released and released, the tactile transmission unit 1 on the cell is sequentially formed from first shapes 10a, 20a to first shapes 10a, 20a, second shapes 10b, 20b, and second shapes 10b, 20b. ), returning to the reciprocating motion (10c, 10d; 20c, 20d), and providing the tactile information to the user of the tactile information providing module 50 as if the character symbol "♡" Can.

In addition to this, it is possible to effectively transmit more complex tactile information by interworking with an independent app, receiving the pen drawing shape in real time as notification information, and implementing the same as tactile information.

16 to 18 are views showing an example of applying the tactile information providing module 50 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 16, the tactile information providing module 50 may be combined with a wearable device 60 such as a smart watch or a mobile communication terminal. In FIG. 16, a tactile information providing module 50 ′ having a curvature similar to that of the band 65 of the wearable device 60 is illustrated. The tactile information providing module 50 ′ is coupled to the rear surface of the main body 61 so that the tactile transmission unit 1 can contact the user. The tactile information providing module 50 ′ may be integrally coupled to the wearable device 60, or may be provided with a terminal-shaped receiving unit 51 to be coupled to the wearable device 60 through the terminal. 16, the receiving unit 51', the control unit 52', and the operation unit 53' are sequentially combined to form a tactile information providing module 50', but the respective components are separated and wearable. Of course, it can be coupled to (60).

17 shows an example in which a couple exchanges tactile information using the tactile information providing module 50 of FIG. 16. When the man enters "♡" through the app of the wearable device 60 or the mobile communication terminal, the receiving unit 51 included in the woman's wearable device 60 receives notification information in the form of symbol "♡", The control unit 52 may convert this into a tactile signal (control signal) to transmit "♡" as tactile information (tactile) such as braille, handwriting, vibration, and the like. The woman (receiver) has a convenient advantage in that it is difficult to directly drive the wearable device 60, for example, in a crowded public transport or even while exercising, the notification information sent by the man (the sender) can be provided immediately. .

18, the tactile information providing module 50 of the present invention can be used for the visually impaired. When you receive a text or phone call, you can receive tactile information in the form of handwriting or braille. In addition, when a visually impaired person walks along the road, it may be provided with a guide signal S such as straight, left, right, and pedestrian crossings in conjunction with a road guidance app. At this time, it would be useful to correspond to each of the plurality of operation units 53. In addition to this, the danger signal S and the warning signal S may be provided as tactile information through strong vibration.

Conventional text information transmission devices for the visually impaired have a problem in that they are heavy, large, and transmit only braille information, and a user must perform a predetermined touch on the device for information recognition or operation. However, since the tactile information providing module 50 of the present invention is based on magnetic particles and matrix material, it is light and flexible, so it can be flexible or wearable, and various characters and figures such as handwriting as well as Braille It is possible to transfer information, and has the advantage of recognizing external information as tactile information in real time even without a user's touch.

In addition to the above examples, the tactile information providing module 50 of the present invention can be applied to real-time tactile transmission in mobile devices, touch screens, online games, etc. in the IT field, lane departure warning system, front collision prevention system, speeding in the automotive industry It can be applied to a driving assistance information feedback system such as a prevention system, and can also be applied in a medical field such as a pulsator, pressure distribution measurement of a person, a surgical robot, and a braille book.

On the other hand, this specification has been described assuming a material containing magnetic particles 2 as a tactile transmission unit 1, typically a magnetorheological elastic body, the tactile transmission unit 1 is an electro-rheological elastomer (ERE). ) It is revealed that the same implementation is possible by using a material and applying an external electric field through the electric field generator instead of the magnetic field generator 200. Since the electrorheological elastic body includes particles having polarization and piezoelectric properties in the elastic material, properties such as its stiffness may be changed by the application of an external electric field, which is similar to the magnetorheological elastic body.

The electric field generating unit (not shown) may form an electric field, and may include at least one electrode unit (not shown). The electric field generating unit (not shown) is disposed under the tactile unit 100, so that each electrode unit (not shown) may correspond to each cell 110 of the tactile unit 100. Alternatively, a lower electrode (not shown) may be disposed under the tactile portion 100, and an upper electrode (not illustrated), a film having an electrode pattern, or the like formed on the top or surface of the tactile portion 100 may be formed. In addition to this, as long as each electrode unit (not shown) is within the scope of the purpose of applying an electric field to each cell 110 corresponding thereto, the position of the electric field generator (not shown) may be variously set.

As described above, the present invention has an effect capable of more sensitively transmitting various tactile information through various tactile transmitting units 1.

In addition, in the present invention, a tactile unit configured in the form of a cell 110 not only a signal such as a simple vibration such as an alarm received from the outside, but also more complex information such as characters and figures corresponding to each cell 110 ( In addition to providing tactile information through 100), it is possible to provide text information and the like to a portion that comes into contact with the user's skin, thereby effectively delivering confidential information that requires security.

The present invention has been illustrated and described with reference to preferred embodiments, as described above, but is not limited to the above embodiments, and can be varied by those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains without departing from the spirit of the invention. Modifications and modifications are possible. Such modifications and variations are to be regarded as falling within the scope of the invention and appended claims.

1, 10, 20, 30, 40: tactile transmission
50: tactile information providing module
51: receiver
52: control
53: operation unit
60: wearable device
100: touch
110: cell
200: magnetic field generating unit
210: coil unit

Claims (15)

Receiving notification information;
Converting the notification information into a tactile signal; And
Operating an operation unit to transmit tactile information according to the tactile signal;
Including,
The operation unit,
A tactile transmission unit composed of magnetic particles and a matrix material and having a plate shape;
A tactile unit supporting both sides of the tactile transmission unit and including a support body providing an operating space of the tactile transmission unit; And
A magnetic field generating unit that is spaced apart from the tactile transmission unit and applies a magnetic field to the tactile unit
It includes,
The tactile transmitting unit provides a tactile information providing method of at least one of vibration, hitting, pressing, and tapping through deformation by a magnetic field applied by the magnetic field generating unit. According to claim 1,
The tactile transmission unit is a method for providing tactile information, characterized in that it is a magnetorheological elastic material (Magneto-Rheological Elastomer, MRE). According to claim 1,
The magnetic particles are iron (Fe), cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), tactile information providing method characterized in that it is composed of a component containing at least one element. According to claim 1,
The matrix material is tactile information providing method, characterized in that the rubber or polymer. delete According to claim 1,
The tactile portion includes at least one cell,
The magnetic field generating unit is tactile information providing method, characterized in that disposed under the tactile unit. The method of claim 6,
The magnetic field generating unit includes at least one coil unit corresponding to the cell. According to claim 1,
The tactile transmission unit maintains the first shape when it is not affected by the magnetic field, and maintains the second shape when it is affected by the magnetic field. The method of claim 8,
Controlling at least one of the intensity, direction, or frequency of deformation from the first shape to the second shape by controlling at least one of the strength, direction, or frequency of the magnetic field formed by the magnetic field generating unit Method of providing tactile information, characterized in that. delete The method of claim 8,
A method of providing tactile information, wherein the tactile transmission unit provides the tactile information in a reciprocating motion by an elastic force while returning from the second shape to the first shape. The method of claim 6,
The notification information includes text, figures, symbols, warnings, alarms or guidance,
According to the tactile signal, the tactile information providing method characterized in that the operation unit sequentially or simultaneously releases the application of the magnetic field and the application of the magnetic field to each of the cells to provide the tactile information. According to claim 1,
It includes a plurality of the operation unit,
A method for providing tactile information, wherein the plurality of operation units provide different tactile information. delete delete

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