Linear Actuator

摘要

Embodiments described herein may take the form of an electromagnetic actuator that produces a haptic output during operation. Generally, an electromagnetic coil is wrapped around a central magnet array. A shaft passes through the central magnet array, such that the central array may move along the shaft when the proper force is applied. When a current passes through the electromagnetic coil, the coil generates a magnetic field. The coil is stationary with respect to a housing of the actuator, while the central magnet array may move along the shaft within the housing. Thus, excitation of the coil exerts a force on the central magnet array, which moves in response to that force. The direction of the current through the coil determines the direction of the magnetic field and thus the motion of the central magnet array.

主权项

1. A linear actuator, comprising:
a mass assembly; a shaft passing through the mass assembly; and an electromagnetic structure operative to exert a motive force on the mass assembly, whereby the mass assembly may move along the shaft in response to the motive force; wherein the electromagnetic structure encircles at least a portion of the mass assembly when the mass assembly is in a rest state.