Apparatus and methods for providing tactile stimulus incorporating tri-layer actuators
US10229564B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 31, 2017 |
| Grant date | Mar 12, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 31, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF03G7/027
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus provides tactile stimulus to a human user using a tri-layer actuator comprising: first and second polymer layers which are electronically and ionically conductive and have one or more dimensions which vary in dependence on insertion of ions therein and withdrawal of ions therefrom; and a deformable layer located between the first and second polymer layers to physically separate the first and second polymer layers from one another, the deformable layer electronically insulating and ionically conductive. Application of first and second voltages between the first and second polymer layers creates corresponding first and second distributions of ions within the first and second polymer layers. Changing between application of the first and second voltages causes corresponding deformation of the tri-layer actuator between corresponding first and second shapes, a difference or transition between the first and second shapes detectable by a sense of touch of a human user.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.