Input devices with simple and compact haptic feedback mechanisms driven by finger movement

Abstract

Narrow key pitch of compact input devices confuses finger pressure at a key touch pad. To make keys more distinguishable and to improve user-friendliness of such input devices, we have introduced mechanisms that enhance tactile feedback and provide active reactions to user's finger. So far, many of haptic devices have used motors or actuators to produce such active reactions. However, in order to make the device small, simple and reliable, we introduce mechanisms that produce the active reactions by transforming finger movement mechanically to up-down movement of sticks that stimulate fingertips. Effectiveness of these mechanisms is demonstrated by basic experiments.