Method and apparatus for providing damping force feedback
US5721566A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 9, 1995 |
| Grant date | Feb 24, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 9, 2015 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T74/20201
- WIPO fieldFurniture, games
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A method and apparatus for interfacing the motion of an object with a digital processing system includes a sensor for detecting movement of the object along a degree of freedom. A passive pneumatic or hydraulic damper is coupled to the object to provide a damping resistance to the object along the degree of freedom and resist a movement of the object. The damping resistance is provided by regulating the control of a fluid with a digital computing apparatus, thus providing a low-cost, low-power force-feedback interface that is safe for the user. The damper and sensor provide an electromechanical interface between the object and the electrical system. A gimbal or other interface mechanism can be coupled between the damper and the object. The interface is well suited for simulations or video games in which an object such as a joystick is moved and manipulated by the user.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.