KYOCERA CORPORATION The result lets designers create HMI solutions in a vast range of 3D shapes, with thinner form factors, fewer components, improved vibration resistance, and significantly reduced weight. Additionally, because they are fully integrated and seamless, HAPTIVITYi solutions offer an interface that is reliable, durable, protected from debris and moisture, and easy to clean.
Technology Background
Kyocera's original HAPTIVITY technology employs piezoelectric elements, a vibration amplification mechanism, a control circuit, and proprietary software to transmit vibration through a panel or display surface when touched and pressed. Biomechanically engineered vibration waveforms can replicate real tactile sensations by stimulating neural mechanoreceptors in the user's fingertip - allowing the user to 'feel' physical buttons, for example, and press them, on a panel where no physical buttons exist.
TactoTek's IMSETM technology integrates printed electronic circuitry and electronic components within 3D injection-molded plastics, providing structure, electronic functions, and cosmetics in one seamless, single-piece, smart surface. Integrated functions commonly include capacitive touch sensing, illumination, and wireless connectivity. Compared to traditional electronics, IMSETM reduces part-wall thickness up to 95%, diminishing plastics use and component weight up to 80%, and producing 34% less CO2 emissions 'cradle to gate' (from raw material extraction to ready-made products).
The combination promises unprecedented design flexibility and seamless user interfaces. Also, by eliminating wasteful production material and assembly requirements, HAPTIVITYi will help realize eco-friendly HMI solutions for applications demanding high performance, such as vibration-proof structures for automotive controls and easy-to-clean interfaces for consumer products and smart home systems.
HAPTIVITYi Features
Thin, seamless 3D design enables new HMI devices
Integrating Kyocera's unique HAPTIVITY technology into a form factor thinned with IMSE technology creates an alternative to conventional mechanical buttons or a flat touch-panel, resulting in a seamless 3D design that dramatically enhances the user experience.
Combining HAPTIVITY and IMSETM reduces components and labor
Conventional HMI technology involves a complex bill of materials that must be procured from multiple suppliers and assembled. In contrast, HAPTIVITYi will offer designers the potential to integrate decorative elements, lighting, touch switches, pressure sensors, tactile actuators and other components into a single module, greatly reducing procurement, assembly and labor requirements.
Kyocera will continue to develop modules equipped with HAPTIVITYi, integrated with a wide range of other Kyocera products and technologies to advance cutting-edge HMI applications.
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