Electromagnetic physical force feedback

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the feasibility of using embedded electromagnets for haptic feedback in a glove, where two electromagnets repel each other to create a sensation of force against the user's skin. Participants highlight the need for compact design and power considerations, suggesting that low-impedance earbuds could serve as a model for the electromagnets. The conversation emphasizes the importance of detailing the application and size constraints for effective implementation. Overall, while the concept is intriguing, practical challenges such as size and power requirements must be addressed.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electromagnet design and operation
  • Knowledge of haptic feedback mechanisms
  • Familiarity with low-impedance audio components
  • Basic principles of force feedback technology
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the design and functionality of low-impedance earbuds for potential use in haptic devices
  • Explore existing technologies in haptic feedback, particularly in wearable devices
  • Investigate the specifications and applications of compact electromagnets
  • Study the principles of force feedback in relation to user sensitivity and comfort
USEFUL FOR

Engineers, product designers, and developers interested in wearable technology and haptic feedback systems will benefit from this discussion.

kolleamm
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I want to create a small pad consisting of two electromagnets that repel and attract each other, this can give the feeling that something is pushing up against your skin if held. Is this a practical idea?
 
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What range of motion is required? Would a speaker work?
 
CWatters said:
What range of motion is required? Would a speaker work?
Something very compact and flat, maybe something you could fit on a finger tip. I'm not sure maybe a speaker would work, but perhaps they may be too big?
 
It sounds like a phone vibrator. They are small, and low-powered.

If you have two magents that move, you need something to make them move, and something else to power them like a battery. How small do you think you could make that?
 
A low impedance earbud after removing the part that goes into the ear (both the soft cushion and the hard plastic.) Their will be a metal diaphragm that moves with the applied current; that's what generates the sound. You will probably have to glue the diaphragm onto the case, it is normally held on by the part you removed.
 
kolleamm said:
I want to create a small pad consisting of two electromagnets that repel and attract each other, this can give the feeling that something is pushing up against your skin if held. Is this a practical idea?

There's not really enough details here to say yes or no. What is the purpose of this? What do you mean when you say that it will give the feeling that something is pushing up against your skin? Just holding a rock will give me the feeling that something is pushing against my skin. Will these magnets be part of a larger device, such as a glove or some other apparatus? These kinds of details matter a great deal, as they decide how big these magnets would need to be, how much power they would require, where they would be located, etc.
 
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Drakkith said:
There's not really enough details here to say yes or no. What is the purpose of this? What do you mean when you say that it will give the feeling that something is pushing up against your skin? Just holding a rock will give me the feeling that something is pushing against my skin. Will these magnets be part of a larger device, such as a glove or some other apparatus? These kinds of details matter a great deal, as they decide how big these magnets would need to be, how much power they would require, where they would be located, etc.
Hi, your right about giving more details. Just like you mentioned I would like to use these embedded electromagnets in a glove. The two electromagnets repel each other giving a feeling of force on the users fingers or palm by them pushing up against it, that's the general idea I had in mind. I would like to try to make some electromagnets but thought it be better to ask here first to see if this is practical.

Thanks for all your responses so far
 
anorlunda said:
Is this similar to what you are trying to do?

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wired_glove
Thanks for the link! I will have to do more research on wired gloves for sure now! :) I'm just wondering why nobody uses electromagnets for haptic feedback. Too bulky perhaps?
 
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kolleamm said:
Thanks for the link! I will have to do more research on wired gloves for sure now! :) I'm just wondering why nobody uses electromagnets for haptic feedback. Too bulky perhaps?

Probably. 'Good' force feedback would require very, very small magnets thanks to how sensitive our fingers and hands are.
 

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