Immersion Corporation
Damping for a haptic actuator

Abstract:

An apparatus and method for damping haptic vibrations. A haptic output device is positioned within a device housing. The haptic output device has a haptic actuator and a haptic mass, the haptic mass being movable relative to the housing. A damper is positioned within the device housing. A controller is programmed to generate and deliver a haptic signal to the haptic actuator at a first time, and to generate and deliver a damping signal to the damper at a second time, the second time occurring after the first time. The method comprises moving a haptic mass, the haptic mass position in a housing; vibrating the housing in response to moving the haptic mass; damping movement of the haptic mass after a period of time; and substantially eliminating vibration of the housing in response to damping movement of the haptic mass.