METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING MULTI-POINT HAPTIC FEEDBACK TEXTURE SYSTEMS

United States Patent Application	20090250267
Kind Code	A1
Heubel; Robert W. ; et al.	October 8, 2009

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METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING MULTI-POINT HAPTIC FEEDBACK TEXTURE SYSTEMS

Abstract

A method and apparatus for generating haptic surface texture with a deformable surface layer are disclosed. The haptic device includes a flexible surface layer, a haptic substrate, and a deforming mechanism. The flexible surface layer is made of elastic materials and is capable of reconfiguring its surface characteristics. The haptic substrate, in one embodiment, provides a first pattern in response to a first activating signal. Alternatively, the haptic substrate is capable of providing a second pattern in accordance with a second activating signal. The deforming mechanism is configured to change the flexible surface from a first surface characteristic to a second surface characteristic in accordance with the first pattern.

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Inventors:	Heubel; Robert W.; (San Leandro, CA) ; Steger; Ryan; (Sunnyvale, CA) ; Lacroix; Robert A.; (Saint-Lambert, CA) ; Bakircioglu; Muge; (San Jose, CA)
Correspondence Name and Address:	WOMBLE CARLYLE SANDRIDGE & RICE, PLLC ATTN: PATENT DOCKETING, P.O. BOX 7037 ATLANTA GA 30357-0037 US
Assignee Name and Adress:	Immersion Corp. San Jose CA
Serial No.:	061463
Series Code:	12
Filed:	April 2, 2008