U.S. patent application number 17/096343 was filed with the patent office on 2021-03-04 for method and apparatus for providing tactile message.
The applicant listed for this patent is CK MATERIALS LAB CO., LTD.. Invention is credited to Hyeong Jun KIM, Nam Seok KIM, Jeong Bum LEE, Jong Hun LEE.
Application Number | 20210064230 17/096343 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 60301549 |
Filed Date | 2021-03-04 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20210064230 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
KIM; Hyeong Jun ; et
al. |
March 4, 2021 |
METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING TACTILE MESSAGE
Abstract
The present invention relates to a tactile message providing
method and a tactile message providing device. Embodiments of the
present invention provide a tactile message providing method for a
tactile sense in a mobile communication terminal device, the method
including: (a) driving a tactile message program; (b) receiving a
tactile pattern; (c) converting the tactile pattern into a pattern
signal; and (d) transmitting the pattern signal to a reception
terminal device, wherein the tactile message program includes a
tactile pattern input window or a tactile switch icon for switching
a text input window to a tactile pattern input window, wherein the
pattern signal is a signal capable of transmitting tactile
information by operating a tactile delivery unit of the reception
terminal device.
Inventors: |
KIM; Hyeong Jun; (Seoul,
KR) ; LEE; Jong Hun; (Seoul, KR) ; KIM; Nam
Seok; (Seoul, KR) ; LEE; Jeong Bum; (Seoul,
KR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
CK MATERIALS LAB CO., LTD. |
SEOUL |
|
KR |
|
|
Family ID: |
60301549 |
Appl. No.: |
17/096343 |
Filed: |
November 12, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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16094904 |
Oct 19, 2018 |
10860204 |
|
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PCT/KR2017/003163 |
Mar 24, 2017 |
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17096343 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 1/1626 20130101;
G06F 3/046 20130101; G06F 2203/014 20130101; G06F 3/017 20130101;
H04W 4/14 20130101; G06F 3/0416 20130101; G06F 1/163 20130101; G06F
3/04883 20130101; G06F 3/016 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G06F 3/0488 20060101
G06F003/0488; G06F 3/01 20060101 G06F003/01; G06F 3/046 20060101
G06F003/046; G06F 1/16 20060101 G06F001/16; G06F 3/041 20060101
G06F003/041 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Apr 21, 2016 |
KR |
10-2016-0048879 |
May 30, 2016 |
KR |
10-2016-0066327 |
Claims
1. A tactile message providing method for a tactile sense in a
mobile communication terminal device, the method comprising: (a)
driving a tactile message program; (b) selecting a dialog partner;
(c) receiving a tactile pattern; (d) converting the tactile pattern
into a pattern signal; and (e) transmitting the pattern signal to a
reception terminal device, wherein step (c) comprises at least one
of: selecting an emoticon, and receiving a tactile pattern which
includes at least one of an intensity, a position, a time, and a
movement direction that a user touches a tactile pattern input
window of the tactile message program.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the tactile pattern is a
combination including at least two of an intensity, a position, a
time, and a movement direction that a user touches the tactile
pattern input window of the tactile message program.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein in step (c), the emoticon
includes an image corresponding to the message to be transmitted by
the user, when the emoticon is selected, a tactile pattern
corresponding to the image is received.
4. The method of claim 3, wherein the emoticon is a tactile
emoticon provided by the tactile message program or a user emoticon
previously stored by the user.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the tactile message program
comprises a tactile pattern input window or a tactile switch icon
for switching a text input window to a tactile pattern input
window, and wherein the pattern signal is a signal capable of
transmitting tactile information by operating a tactile delivery
unit of the reception terminal device.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein the tactile message program is a
widget, a pop-up program, an app, a messenger app, a short message
service (SMS), or a multimedia message service (MMS) itself, or is
included therein.
7. The method of claim 1, wherein the tactile pattern inputted by
the user is matched with a tactile pattern DB previously stored in
the tactile message program and a pattern signal of the tactile
pattern DB is transmitted to the reception terminal device.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein the tactile pattern input window
is divided into a plurality of virtual regions, and the virtual
region receives a tactile pattern to generate a digital signal
independently, and the pattern signal is composed of a sum of the
generated digital signals.
9. The method of claim 8, wherein the pattern signal is a signal
capable of transmitting stereoscopic tactile information having
directionality, by operating each tactile delivery unit of the
reception terminal device corresponding to each of the virtual
regions.
10. The method of claim 1, further comprising: (f) receiving
content, and (g) transmitting content signal to the reception
terminal device.
11. The method of claim 10, wherein the content includes at least
one of dialogue text, sounds, sound effects, pictures, and
videos.
12. The method of claim 10, wherein steps (e) and (g) are performed
simultaneously or sequentially.
13. The method of claim 1, wherein the tactile message includes at
least one of vibration, squeeze, fasten, punch, push, tap, tilt,
and tickle.
14. A nonvolatile computer-readable recording medium, in which a
program of a tactile message providing method executable by a
processor of a mobile communication terminal device is recorded,
the method comprising: (a) converting a received tactile pattern
into a pattern signal; and (b) transmitting the pattern signal to a
reception terminal device, wherein the tactile message includes
tactile information or tactile information and content information.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a divisional of U.S. Ser. No.
16/094,904, filed Oct. 19, 2018, the contents of which are
incorporated herein by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates to a tactile message providing
method and a tactile message providing device. More particularly,
the present invention relates to a tactile message providing method
and a tactile message providing device that may provide tactile
information to a counterpart in real time by a user inputting a
tactile pattern or selecting a previously stored tactile
pattern.
BACKGROUND ART
[0003] As the supply rate of the wireless communication terminal
increases, it becomes a necessity of life of modern people and is
developed as a wearable type device which may be worn by the user
in the existing handheld type.
[0004] Also, in terms of communication services, it evolves from
existing voice calls and short messages and evolves toward
providing multimedia services including various data transmission
and various additional services.
[0005] Short Message Service (SMS) among existing communication
services using a wireless communication terminal allows the user to
conveniently contact and communicate with each other in real time,
but has limitations in transmitting the emotion or feeling of the
user. To overcome this, a multimedia message service (MMS) and a
messenger service (Messenger Service), including pictures, videos,
and emoticons, are used. However, most of these tools are also
visual, so that it has limitations in conveying rich emotions and
feelings of users.
[0006] In addition, the service providing the conventional tactile
sense is mostly limited to the vibration, and there is a problem
that it is monotonous because it may not give direction to the
tactile sense. In addition, since each tactile feedback pre-stored
in the memory unit is read and transmitted, it is not sufficient to
transmit a tactile sense reflecting user's emotions or emotions in
real time.
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
Technical Problem
[0007] The present invention provides a tactile message providing
method and a tactile message providing method through which as the
tactile sense is transmitted, the limited user's expression through
the existing message service relying primarily on visual perception
is avoided and the emotions that users feel in various situations
allow other person to feel the same way.
[0008] The present invention also provides a tactile message
providing method and a tactile message providing device that
transmit various tactile feelings such as vibration, squeeze,
tightening, hitting, pushing, tapping, or tilting more sensitively
to a receiver by promptly inputting a feeling of a sender in a
tactile pattern.
Technical Solution
[0009] Embodiments of the present invention provide a tactile
message providing method for a tactile sense in a mobile
communication terminal device, the method including: (a) driving a
tactile message program; (b) receiving a tactile pattern; (c)
converting the tactile pattern into a pattern signal; and (d)
transmitting the pattern signal to a reception terminal device,
wherein the tactile message program includes a tactile pattern
input window or a tactile switch icon for switching a text input
window to a tactile pattern input window, wherein the pattern
signal is a signal capable of transmitting tactile information by
operating a tactile delivery unit of the reception terminal
device.
[0010] In other embodiments of the present invention, a tactile
message providing device for transmitting a tactile sense includes:
a display unit for displaying a tactile message program having a
tactile pattern input window or a tactile switch icon for switching
a text input window to a tactile pattern input window; an input
unit for receiving a tactile pattern from the tactile pattern input
window; a control unit for detecting a pattern signal of the
tactile pattern; a communication unit for transmitting the pattern
signal to a reception terminal device; and a tactile delivery unit
for transmitting tactile information, wherein the pattern signal is
a signal capable of transmitting tactile information by operating a
tactile delivery unit of the reception terminal device.
Advantageous Effects
[0011] According to the present invention configured as described
above, as the tactile sense is transmitted, the existing message
service relying primarily on visual perception is avoided and the
emotions that users feel in various situations allow other person
to feel the same way.
[0012] In addition, according to the present invention, as promptly
inputting a feeling of a sender in a tactile pattern, various
tactile feelings such as vibration, squeeze, tightening, hitting,
pushing, tapping, or tilting are more sensitively transmitted to a
receiver.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] FIG. 1 is a view schematically showing a configuration of an
overall system for providing a tactile message according to an
embodiment of the present invention.
[0014] FIG. 2 is a view schematically showing a configuration of a
tactile message providing device according to an embodiment of the
present invention.
[0015] FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a mobile communication
terminal device having a tactile delivery unit according to an
embodiment of the present invention.
[0016] FIG. 4 is a view showing a schematic configuration of a
tactile delivery unit according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0017] FIG. 5 is a view showing a tactile delivery unit according
to the first embodiment of the present invention.
[0018] FIG. 6 is a view showing a tactile delivery unit according
to the second embodiment of the present invention.
[0019] FIG. 7 is a view showing various shapes of a tactile
delivery unit according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0020] FIG. 8 is a view showing a tactile delivery unit according
to the third embodiment of the present invention.
[0021] FIG. 9 is a view showing a tactile delivery unit according
to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.
[0022] FIG. 10 is a view showing a tactile delivery unit according
to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.
[0023] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a tactile message
transmission process according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0024] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a tactile message reception
process according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0025] FIG. 13 is a view showing a screen of a tactile message
program according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0026] FIG. 14 is a view showing a tactile pattern input window
according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0027] FIG. 15 is a view showing a pattern signal for a tactile
pattern according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0028] FIGS. 16 and 17 are views showing that a tactile pattern
input window 710 according to an embodiment of the present
invention is divided into a plurality of virtual regions to receive
a tactile pattern.
[0029] FIG. 18 is a view showing that a symbol is provided in a
tactile pattern input window according to an embodiment of the
present invention.
[0030] FIG. 19 is a view showing that a tactile pattern input
window according to another embodiment of the present invention is
divided into a plurality of virtual regions and a symbol is
provided.
[0031] FIG. 20 is a view showing a screen for selecting a tactile
emoticon according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0032] FIG. 21 is a view showing a screen for selecting a user
emoticon according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0033] FIG. 22 is a view showing a pattern signal for various
emotions according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0034] FIG. 23 is a view showing a screen for receiving a tactile
message according to an embodiment of the present invention.
DESCRIPTION OF REFERENCE NUMERALS
[0035] 100: transmission terminal device [0036] 110: input unit
[0037] 120: display unit [0038] 130: memory unit [0039] 140:
tactile delivery unit [0040] 141: tactile unit [0041] 145: magnetic
field generation unit [0042] 150: content delivery unit [0043] 160:
communication unit [0044] 170: control unit [0045] 200: reception
terminal device [0046] 300: communication network [0047] 400:
server [0048] 500, 600, 700: screens of a tactile message program
[0049] 510, 601, 710: input windows for inputting tactile patterns
[0050] 703: tactile switch icon [0051] 705: emoticon input icon
[0052] 706: tactile emoticon [0053] 707: user emoticon [0054] 711,
715: virtual region [0055] 720: dialog window [0056] 721, 722, 723:
tactile message [0057] S: symbol
MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0058] Reference is made to the accompanying drawings shown as
examples of the embodiments. These embodiments are described in
detail to allow those skilled in the art to practice the present
invention. It should be understood that the various embodiments of
the present invention are different, but need not be mutually
exclusive. For example, specific forms, structures, and
characteristics described herein may be implemented in other
embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the
present invention in relation to one embodiment. It also should be
understood that the position or arrangement of the individual
components in each disclosed embodiment may be varied without
departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
Therefore, the following detailed description is not to be taken in
a limiting sense, and if properly explained, the scope of the
invention is to be limited only by the appended claims, along with
the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. In
the drawings, like reference numerals refer to the same or similar
functions throughout the several aspects, and length and area,
thickness, and the like, and their shapes may be exaggerated for
convenience.
[0059] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be
described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings in
order that those skilled in the art easily carry out the present
invention.
[0060] Configuration of Entire System
[0061] FIG. 1 is a view schematically showing a configuration of an
overall system for providing a tactile message according to an
embodiment of the present invention.
[0062] Referring to FIG. 1, the overall system for providing a
tactile message according to an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention includes a transmission terminal device 100, a reception
terminal device 200, a communication network 300, and a server
400.
[0063] The transmission terminal device 100 and the reception
terminal device 200, which are mobile communication terminal
devices, are terminal devices having similar configurations and
functions, and collectively refer to an electronic device that may
access a mobile communication network 300 and perform voice
communication, data communication, and the like. Any digital device
that is portable and has a memory means and has a computing
capability by mounting a microprocessor, for example, wearable
devices which may be attached to the user's body, such as,
smartphones, smart watches, and the like, tablets, and PDAs, may be
adopted as the mobile communication terminal devices 100 and 200
according to the present invention.
[0064] The communication network 300 may be configured without its
communication modes such as wired and wireless and may be
configured with various communication networks such as mobile
communication network, Local Area Network (LAN), Metropolitan Area
Network (MAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), and the like. Preferably,
the communication network 300 in the present invention is a
well-known World Wide Web (WWW) or Code Division Multiple Access
(CDMA), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), and Global
System for Mobile (GSM) communications network. Although not shown
in the drawing, a base station is interposed between the mobile
communication terminal devices 100 and 200 and the communication
network 300 to mediate a data channel.
[0065] The server 400 provides a tactile message program or
application to the mobile communication terminal device 100 and
200, obtains access information, identification information,
communication information, etc. of the mobile communication
terminal devices 100 and 200, and controls a part of functions of
the mobile communication terminal devices 100 and 200 with
reference to the same. The access information may include the login
information of the user in the tactile message program, the
identification information may include a device serial number
(ESN), a telephone number, and the like, and the communication
information may include a message signal between a sender and a
receiver but is not limited thereto.
[0066] Configuration of Tactile Message Providing Device
[0067] FIG. 2 is a view schematically showing a configuration of a
tactile message providing device according to an embodiment of the
present invention. It may be understood that the tactile message
providing device according to the present invention includes both
mobile communication terminal devices 100 and 200 themselves or a
module having a function of transmitting tactile information
connected to a mobile communication terminal device 100 and 200. In
this specification, the tactile message providing device is assumed
to be the mobile communication terminal devices 100 and 200
themselves. The tactile message providing device may be described
in combination with the transmission terminal device 100 and the
reception terminal device 200.
[0068] Referring to FIG. 2, the tactile message providing device
100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
includes an input unit 110, a display unit 120, a memory unit 130,
a tactile delivery unit 140, a content delivery unit 150, a
communication unit 160, and a control unit 170.
[0069] The input unit 110 may perform a function of receiving
information necessary for the operation of the tactile message
providing device 100 from the user. For example, the input unit 110
may include various function keys including a touch panel, a hard
key or a button, and further, may include sensing means such as an
extended input means such as a mouse and a keyboard, an
acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a gravity sensor, and a magnet
sensor. In particular, in the present invention, the input unit 110
may mean input means for sending messages such as tactile, visual,
and auditory, and means for inputting tactile patterns.
[0070] The display unit 120 performs a function for displaying
information related to a transmission/reception message, operation
guide, operation state, and the like, and for example, may include
a display device such as an OLED, an LED, and an LCD. In
particular, in the present invention, the display unit 120 may mean
a portion for driving a driven tactile message program, a display
region, and the like.
[0071] The memory unit 130 may store data necessary for operation
of the tactile message providing device 100. In particular, in the
present invention, a tactile message program may be installed in
the memory unit 130, and a tactile pattern DB, a tactile emoticon,
a user emoticon, and the like may be stored.
[0072] The tactile delivery unit 140 may convert the tactile
pattern inputted by the sender into tactile information and
transmit the tactile sense to the receiver. A detailed description
of the tactile delivery unit 140 will be given later.
[0073] The content delivery unit 150 may perform a function of
transmitting information other than information that may be
visually transmitted through the display unit 120. For example, it
may include a speaker that transmits auditory information such as
sounds and sound effects, a means that transmits smell information,
and the like.
[0074] The communication unit 160 functions to enable data
transmission/reception from/to the tactile message providing device
100. In particular, in the present invention, the communication
unit 160 performs a function of transmitting a pattern signal to
another terminal device 200, transmitting and receiving message
information, and receiving information on control of the tactile
message providing device 100 from the server 400 through the
communication network 300.
[0075] The control unit 170 performs a series of functions to
control the flow of signals between the input unit 110, the display
unit 120, the memory unit 130, the tactile delivery unit 140, the
content delivery unit 150, and the communication unit 160. In
particular, in the present invention, the control unit 170 may
perform a function of digitizing the tactile pattern inputted
through the input unit 110 into a pattern signal, transmitting the
pattern signal to the communication unit 160, and transmitting it
to the terminal device 200.
[0076] Configuration of Tactile Delivery Unit
[0077] Hereinafter, the configuration and various embodiments of
the tactile delivery unit 140 will be described in detail.
[0078] FIG. 3 is a schematic view of mobile communication terminal
devices 100a and 100b having a tactile delivery unit 140 according
to an embodiment of the present invention. (a) of FIG. 3 shows an
embodiment in which a tactile delivery unit 140 is disposed on the
rear surface of the smartphone 100a. (b) of FIG. 3 shows an
embodiment in which a tactile delivery unit 140 is provided on the
band inner circumferential surface of the smart watch 100b. In
addition, the arrangement, location, number, size, etc. of the
tactile delivery unit 140 may be modified without limitation and
within a purpose range of providing tactile information in contact
with a part of the user, it is noted that there is no restriction
on the shape of the tactile delivery unit 140.
[0079] Referring to (a) of FIG. 3, a plurality of tactile delivery
units 140 may be disposed on the rear surface of the smartphone
100a. For example, the tactile delivery unit 140 may be arranged in
a matrix. Reference numerals are shown in order of 140aa, 140ba,
140ca, . . . in the row direction, and 140aa, 140ab, 140ac, . . . ,
in the column direction. Referring to (b) of FIG. 3, a plurality of
tactile delivery units 140 may be disposed on the inner
circumferential surface of the band of the smart watch 100b. For
example, the tactile delivery unit 140 may be arranged at regular
intervals along the band direction. Reference numerals are
indicated in the order of 140a, 140b, . . . , 140f from one end of
the band to the other end.
[0080] Each tactile delivery unit 140 may operate independently,
and the intensity, type, delivery time, etc. of the tactile sense
may be independently controlled according to the tactile
pattern.
[0081] FIG. 4 is a view showing a schematic configuration of a
tactile delivery unit 140 according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0082] Referring to FIG. 4, the tactile delivery unit 140 includes
a tactile unit 141 composed of magnetic particles 142 and a matrix
material 143, and a magnetic field generation unit 145 for applying
a magnetic field to the tactile unit 141.
[0083] The tactile unit 141:141a-141e is made of magnetic material
142, for example, nano or micron sized iron or ferrite particles,
and a matrix material 143, for example, rubber or other polymeric
material. Also, the tactile unit 141 may be a Magneto-Rheological
Elastomer (MRE), and the MRE is an elastomeric material containing
particles capable of reacting to an external magnetic field. Since
the MRE contains magnetic particles that may be magnetized by an
external magnetic field in the elastomeric material,
characteristics such as stiffness, tensile strength and elongation
may be changed by application of an external magnetic field. In
addition, the tactile unit 141 may be formed by selecting at least
one of a polygonal phenomenon such as a micro projection, a hollow
cylinder, a dome, a plate shape, a seesaw shape, or a tunnel
shape.
[0084] The magnetic field generation unit 145 is located above or
below the tactile unit 141 to form a magnetic field and the
magnetic particle 142 in the tactile unit 141 reacts to this
magnetic field. Also, the magnetic field generation unit 145 uses
at least one of a plane coil or a solenoid coil. When an
alternating current is applied in a size and shape corresponding to
the tactile unit 141, an alternating magnetic field is generated
and when a direct current is applied, a direct current magnetic
field is generated. In particular, lines of magnetic flux of the
magnetic field generated by the magnetic field generation unit 145
are schematically shown in FIG. 4.
[0085] Further, the magnetic field generation unit 145 has a
position and a shape corresponding to the tactile unit 141, and the
shape of the tactile unit 141 changes due to the magnetic field
generated by the magnetic field generation unit 145, and the
tactile information may be transmitted according to the shape
change of the tactile unit 141. Here, the tactile information may
be at least one of vibration, squeeze, tighten, slap, push, tap,
tilt, and tickle. Tactile information should be understood to mean
sensibility, emotion, etc. [for example, by conveying the tactile
feeling of "I love you" through the touch of "" type, or conveying
the tactile feeling of "sad" through the touch of "" style]
transmitted through tactile feeling.
[0086] Meanwhile, the tactile delivery unit 140 may be a motor or
an actuator for transmitting tactile information by generating
vibration or the like. Specifically, the tactile delivery unit 140
may use a tube-shaped actuator including an eccentric motor that
vibrates with an eccentric force generated when the motor rotates,
and a linear resonance actuator that maximizes the intensity of
vibration using the resonance frequency. Also, the tactile delivery
unit 140 may use a piezoelectric actuator having a beam shape or a
disk shape and driven by using a piezoelectric element whose size
or shape is instantaneously changed by an electric field, an
electroactive polymer actuator that attaches a mass onto an
electroactive polymer film to produce vibrations by repeated
movement of the mass, and an electrostatic actuator driven by a
repulsive force generated when charges of the same kind as the
attractive force generated between two glass surfaces filled with
different electric charges are charged. Since the motor or the
actuator is a known technology, a detailed description thereof will
be omitted.
[0087] FIG. 5 is a view showing the tactile delivery unit 140
according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
[0088] Referring to FIG. 5, the tactile unit 141 of the tactile
delivery unit 140 according to the first embodiment may have the
shape of a fine protrusion 141a. In order to convey the tactile
feeling in detail and emotionally, the fine protrusion 141a may
have a thickness of about 25 .mu.m or less so as to be similar to
fleece or the like, or about 100 .mu.m or less so as to be similar
to human hair or the like.
[0089] As shown in (a) of FIG. 5, the fine protrusion 141a may
maintain a slightly inclined shape (first shape) when it is not
affected by the external magnetic field. Of course, it is also
possible to have a fine protrusion shape erected vertically without
tilting. Next, as shown in (b) of FIG. 5, in the case of being
influenced by an external magnetic field, the fine protrusions 141a
may be more inclined or maintain a lying shape (second shape).
Next, as shown in (c) and (d) of FIG. 5, when the application of
the magnetic field is released and is not affected by the external
magnetic field, the fine protrusions 141a may be reciprocated by
their own elasticity (or resilience) while returning from the
second shape to the first shape. Therefore, a tactile feeling of
rubbing or tickling may be transmitted by the reciprocating fine
protrusion 141a.
[0090] FIG. 6 is a view showing the tactile delivery unit 140
according to the second embodiment of the present invention.
[0091] Referring to FIG. 6, the tactile unit 141 of the tactile
delivery unit 140 according to the second embodiment includes a
hollow cylindrical body 141b, a dome or a polyhedron (see (b) of
FIG. 7).
[0092] As shown in (a) of FIG. 6, in a case where it is not
affected by the external magnetic field, the cylinder 141b in which
the inside is hollow may exhibit a flat shape (first shape) of the
upper surface 141ba. Next, as shown in (b) of FIG. 6, in the case
of being influenced by an external magnetic field, the cylinder
141b may show a shape (second shape) in which the upper surface
141ba is recessed into an empty space. Next, as shown in (c) and
(d) of FIG. 6, when the application of the magnetic field is
released and is not affected by the external magnetic field, in
relation to the cylinder 141b, the upper surface 141ba may be
reciprocated by their own elasticity (or resilience) while
returning from the second shape to the first shape. Therefore, the
tactile feeling and the vibrating tactile feeling may be
transmitted by the reciprocating upper surface 141ba.
[0093] By controlling at least one of the intensity, direction, or
frequency of the magnetic field formed by the magnetic field
generation unit 145, it may control at least one of the intensity
(size), direction, or frequency of the transformation from the
first shape to the second shape. As an example, if a stronger
magnetic field is applied, since the degree of deformation of the
tactile unit 141 will increase, a stronger tactile feeling may be
delivered. In addition, for example, if the frequency of the
magnetic field is varied, the speed at which the tactile unit 141
returns to the first shape, the second shape, and then the first
shape changes, so that various tactile feelings may be
delivered.
[0094] FIG. 7 is a view showing various shapes of a tactile
delivery unit 140 according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0095] (1) (a) of FIG. 7 is a hollow cylinder; (2) (b) of FIG. 7 is
a hexahedron having an empty interior; and (3) (c) of FIG. 7 is a
cylinder formed on the upper surface and empty inside. The air may
flow smoothly through the micro hole during the reciprocating
motion of the upper surface, thereby increasing the durability of
the tactile unit 141. (4) (d) of FIG. 7 shows a shape obtained by
mixing a fine protrusion and an empty cylinder, (5) (e) of FIG. 7
shows a shape in which a plurality of micro holes are formed on the
cylinder upper surface in addition to the shape of (d) of FIG. 7,
(6) (f) of FIG. 7 shows a shape having a plurality of micro holes
in (c) of FIG. 7, (7) (g) of FIG. 7 shows a shape in which various
structures [for example, a cylinder smaller than the cylinder and
an empty cylinder inside] are combined on the upper surface of the
cylinder, and (8) (h) of FIG. 7 shows a shape in which an embossed
structure in the form of a dome is formed on the upper surface of a
cylinder having an empty interior.
[0096] As above, by configuring the shape of the tactile delivery
unit 140 in various ways, the present invention may transmit a
variety of tactile feelings such as a squeeze, a tickle force, a
tapping and the like in a complex manner.
[0097] FIG. 8 is a view showing a tactile delivery unit 140
according to a third embodiment of the present invention, and FIG.
9 is a view showing a tactile delivery unit 140 according to a
fourth embodiment of the present invention.
[0098] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, in relation to the tactile unit
141 according to the third and fourth embodiments, the plurality of
tactile units 141c and 141d and the support members 141ca and 141da
form at least one cell. A plurality of the cells are disposed on
the insulator 144 at regular intervals. The coil unit of the
plurality of magnetic field generation units 145 may be formed as a
single layer or a plurality of layers 145a and 145b in a shape and
position corresponding to the cell below the insulator 144.
[0099] Here, the support members 141ca and 141da [see FIGS. 8 and
9] are further provided between the tactile units 141c and 141d and
the magnetic field generation unit 145, so that it may be
understood that the operation space of the tactile units 141c and
141d may be secured. In addition, the support members 141ca and
141da are MREs, and may have at least one shape of a curved shape
or a wavy shape.
[0100] The tactile unit 141c according to the third embodiment is
in the form of a plate and the support member 141ca is integrally
provided on both sides of the tactile unit 141c in a curved shape.
The support member 141ca is provided between the insulator 144 and
the tactile unit 141c to secure a space in which the tactile unit
141c or the support member 141ca may operate. For example, the
tactile unit 141c and the support member 141ca move upward and
downward in the space by the magnetic field generated by the
magnetic field generation unit 145, and perform a reciprocating
motion to change the shape. This shape change may move one cell or
the entire cell, and as a result, the user may convey various
tactile feelings such as vibration, beating, and tapping.
[0101] The tactile unit 141d according to the fourth embodiment is
in the form of a plate and the support member 141da is integrally
provided on both sides of the tactile unit 141d in a wavy shape.
The support member 141da is provided between the insulator 144 and
the tactile unit 141d to secure a space in which the tactile unit
141d may operate. For example, when a magnetic field is generated
by the magnetic field generation unit 145, the shape of the support
member 141da formed by the MRE changes, and one end of the tactile
unit 141d is inclined toward the center of the magnetic field
generation unit 145. If no magnetic field is generated in the
magnetic field generation unit 145, it is possible to return to the
circular shape by the elastic force. That is, by applying a
magnetic field to one or all of the cells, the user may transmit
various tactile feelings such as vibration, beating, tapping, or
tilting.
[0102] FIG. 10 is a view showing the tactile delivery unit 140
according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.
[0103] Referring to FIG. 10, in relation to the tactile unit 141
according to the fifth embodiment, the plurality of tactile units
141e form at least one cell. A plurality of the cells are disposed
on the insulator 144 at regular intervals. The coil unit of a
plurality of magnetic field generation units 145 may be formed as a
single layer 145a or a plurality of layers below the insulator 144
in a shape and position corresponding to the cell.
[0104] The tactile unit 141e according to the fifth embodiment is
in the form of a tunnel, and an elliptical space is formed therein.
For example, when a magnetic field is generated by the magnetic
field generation unit 145, the shape of the tactile unit 141e
formed by the MRE changes, and one end of the tactile unit 141e is
inclined toward the center of the magnetic field generation unit
145. If no magnetic field is generated in the magnetic field
generation unit 145, it is possible to return to the circular shape
by the elastic force. That is, by applying a magnetic field to one
or all of the cells, it is possible to transmit various tactile
feelings to the user, such as twisting or tightening.
[0105] Meanwhile, although the present invention has been described
on the assumption that the material including the magnetic
particles 142, typically MRE, is used as the tactile delivery unit
140, Electro-Rheological Elastomer (ERE) material is used, and by
applying an external electric field through the electric field
generating unit instead of the magnetic field generation unit 145,
it is noted that the same implementation is possible.
[0106] As described above, the present invention is capable of
delivering various tactile feelings more sensitively through
various tactile delivery units 140.
[0107] Tactile Message Providing Method
[0108] Hereinafter, a method of providing a tactile message through
a tactile message providing device and a system including the same
will be described in detail.
[0109] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a tactile message
transmission process according to an embodiment of the present
invention. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a tactile message
reception process according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0110] A tactile message providing method for transmitting a
tactile sense in a mobile communication terminal device according
to the present invention includes: (a) driving a tactile message
program; (b) receiving a tactile pattern; (c) converting the
tactile pattern into a pattern signal; and (d) transmitting the
pattern signal to a reception terminal device. And, the tactile
message program includes a tactile pattern input window or a
tactile switch icon for switching a text input window to a tactile
pattern input window. The pattern signal is a signal capable of
transmitting tactile information by operating a tactile delivery
unit of a reception terminal device.
[0111] As a first step, the tactile message program may be operated
(S100, S200). The sender may prepare a tactile message to be sent
by driving the tactile message program on the transmission terminal
device 100 (S100) and the receiver may check the received tactile
message by driving the tactile message program on the reception
terminal device 200 (S200). At this time, the tactile message on
the reception terminal device 200 may be confirmed by driving the
tactile message program, or may immediately confirm the tactile
message in the form of push or notification.
[0112] FIG. 13 is a view schematically showing screens 500, 600,
and 700 of a tactile message program according to an embodiment of
the present invention.
[0113] The tactile message program may be a widget, a pop-up
program, an app, a messenger app, a short message service (SMS), or
a multimedia message service (MMS) itself, or may be a program
included additionally. (a) of FIG. 13 shows a widget and a pop-up
program in a smartphone. (b) of FIG. 13 shows an app form in the
smart watch. (c) of FIG. 13 shows that the tactile message program
is activated in the form of a messenger app in the smartphone.
[0114] Referring to FIG. 13, the tactile message program includes
input windows 510, 610 and 710 for inputting tactile patterns,
dialog partner selection windows 530, 630 and 730, message
transmission windows 540, 640 and 740, and an other menu window
550, 650 and 750. Also, selectively, it may further include a
favorites window 520, a dialog window 720, and the like. For the
Messenger app, since text message transmission/reception is basic,
it may further include a text input window 701 and an emoticon
input icon 705. It may further include a tactile switch icon 703
for switching the text input window 701 to the tactile pattern
input window 710 [see (c) of FIG. 14].
[0115] The tactile message program may be driven through one of
methods of pressing the hard key or button of the mobile
communication terminal devices 100 and 200, touching the display,
and rotating or shaking mobile communication terminal devices 100
and 200.
[0116] FIG. 14 is a view showing tactile pattern input windows 510,
610, and 710 according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0117] In the next step, a tactile pattern may be inputted (S110).
The input of the tactile pattern is performed through {circle
around (1)} a method of inputting freely, {circle around (2)} a
method of inputting using a symbol S, {circle around (3)} a method
of selecting a tactile emoticon 706, and {circle around (4)} a
method of selecting a user emoticon 707, in the input windows 510,
610, and 710, by a user.
[0118] On the other hand, after driving the tactile message
program, the dialog partner may be selected before inputting the
tactile pattern (S105). As a dialog partner is selected by touching
the dialog partner selection windows 530, 630, and 730 in the
screens 500, 600, and 700 of the tactile message program, a dialog
window may be opened, and a tactile pattern may be inputted through
the input windows 510, 610, and 710.
[0119] FIG. 15 is a view showing a pattern signal for a tactile
pattern according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0120] Referring to (a) of FIG. 15, for example, if the input unit
110 of the tactile message providing device 100 is an electrostatic
touch panel, since the distances between the electrodes vary
depending on the intensity (t1<t2<t3) of tapping or touching
the input windows 510, 610, and 710, it is possible to generate
electric fields of different intensities, and thus digital signals
of different intensities may be generated. The number of circles in
the touched portion shown in (a) of FIG. 15 represents the
intensity of the touch. Then, as shown in (b) of FIG. 15, in the
case of dragging td without hitting the input windows 510, 610, and
710, a digital signal of a different pattern may be generated.
[0121] Referring again to FIG. 14, through {circle around (1)} the
method, the user may freely input the tactile pattern through the
touch t: t2 of the input windows 510, 610, and 710. Hereinafter,
the tactile message program is assumed to be the messenger
application 700, and the tactile pattern is inputted through the
input window 710.
[0122] The tactile pattern may be generated by a combination of
intensity, position, time, and movement direction of the tactile
pattern input window 710 in the tactile message program. A digital
signal may be generated independently of each unit pixel or unit
area constituting the tactile pattern input window 710. Thus, a
pattern signal may be constituted by a sum of digital signals in
each area.
[0123] For example, when the input window 710 is tapped more and
more strongly (t1->t2->t3), each digital signal having an
intensity of 1, 2, and 3 is generated, and these digital signals
may be combined to form a pattern signal. This pattern signal may
be a signal for driving the tactile delivery unit 140 to cause the
tactile delivery unit 140 to transmit a tactile sense such that it
has an intensity of 1, 2, and 3.
[0124] As another example, when touching the input window 710 by
dragging from the left side to the right side td, a digital signal
is generated independently from each unit area distributed from the
left to the right of the input window 710, and these digital
signals may be combined to form a pattern signal. This pattern
signal becomes a signal to drive the tactile delivery unit 140, and
the tactile delivery units are driven from the tactile delivery
unit 140 disposed on the left side to the tactile delivery unit 140
disposed on the right side, so that tactile senses may be
transmitted.
[0125] That is, identically to the tactile pattern input by the
user in the input window 710, or within a degree in which the
tactile pattern may be intuitively recognized, the tactile delivery
unit 140 is driven to transmit the tactile sense in real time.
[0126] On the other hand, the tactile message program may store the
tactile pattern DB in advance. When the user inputs a tactile
pattern, the control unit 170 matches the input tactile pattern
with the tactile patterns in the tactile pattern DB. If the same or
similar tactile pattern is previously stored in the tactile pattern
DB, a previously stored pattern signal may be transmitted.
[0127] FIGS. 16 and 17 are views showing that a tactile pattern
input window 710 according to an embodiment of the present
invention is divided into a plurality of virtual regions 711 and
715 to receive a tactile pattern.
[0128] The tactile pattern input window 710 may be divided into a
plurality of virtual regions 711 and 715. FIGS. 16 and 17 show that
it is separated into two virtual regions 711 and 715, but it is not
limited thereto. Preferably, the number of virtual regions 711 and
715 may be the same as the number of tactile delivery units 140, or
may be divided into a number that may be mutually matched. Then, it
is also possible for the user to directly specify the number,
position, etc. of the virtual regions 711 and 715 and divide
them.
[0129] As shown in (a) of FIG. 16, when a tactile pattern is
inputted by touching t3 with strong intensity in the left area 711
and touching t1 with a weak intensity in the right area 715, as
shown in (b) of FIG. 16, a digital signal is generated
independently from each of the two virtual regions 711 and 715, and
these digital signals may be combined to form a pattern signal.
This pattern signal becomes a signal to drive the tactile delivery
unit 140, and, as shown in (c) of FIG. 16, drives the tactile
delivery unit 140 disposed on the left side to have a strong
intensity and drives the tactile delivery unit 140 disposed on the
right side to have a weak intensity. Therefore, a tactile message
receiver wearing a smart watch may receive stereoscopic tactile
information from the left and right wrists.
[0130] As shown in (a) of FIG. 17, when a tactile pattern is
inputted by dragging td from the left area 711 to the right area
715, as shown in (b) of FIG. 17, a digital signal is generated
independently from each of the two virtual regions 711 and 715, and
these digital signals may be combined to form a pattern signal.
This pattern signal becomes a signal to drive the tactile delivery
unit 140, and as shown in (c) of FIG. 17, may sequentially drive
tactile delivery units 140 from the tactile delivery units 140aa,
140ab, 140ac, . . . arranged in the left column toward the
direction of the tactile delivery unit 140ca, 140cb, 140cc, . . .
arranged in the right column. Therefore, a tactile message receiver
holding a smartphone may receive tactile information flowing from
left to right like a wave. If wearing a smart watch, he/she will
receive tactile information rotating around the wrist.
[0131] As described above, the present invention is advantageous in
that the tactile pattern inputted by the user through the input
window 710 may be converted into stereoscopic tactile information
having directionality and transmitted.
[0132] FIG. 18 is a view showing that a symbol S is provided in a
tactile pattern input window 710 according to an embodiment of the
present invention.
[0133] As {circle around (2)} the method, the user may input a
tactile pattern by touching t: t2 the symbol S displayed on the
input window 710. When the tactile pattern is freely input by the
method described in FIG. 14, a complicated pattern or an unclear
pattern may be inputted so that it is difficult to operate the
tactile delivery unit 140 in the tactile message providing device
100. In this case, the inputted tactile pattern may be deleted, or
it may be troublesome to request re-input. To prevent this, a
symbol S in the form of an image may be displayed on the tactile
pattern input window 710.
[0134] The symbol S plays a role of attracting a user's attention
and helping the user to intensively touch and drag a portion where
the symbol S is displayed. The tactile pattern inputted through the
portion where the symbol S is displayed may be organized in advance
and provided as database in advance. Thus, the tactile message
providing device 100 may generate a tactile pattern to facilitate
operation of the tactile delivery unit 140.
[0135] In addition, the symbol S may generate not only a tactile
pattern (pattern signal) but also generate a content signal
corresponding to the symbol S. The content signal may reproduce
effects such as hearing and smell. For example, as shown in FIG.
16(a), when a tactile pattern is generated and transmitted by
touching a drum-shaped symbol S2, the receiver receives tactile
information of tapping from the tactile delivery unit 140 and
receives a drum-like sound from the content delivery unit 150 such
as a speaker at the same time. Also, as shown in (b) of FIG. 16,
when a tactile pattern is generated by dragging a drum-shaped
symbol S in a shaking form, the receiver receives the tactile
information of the knocking and vibration alternately from the
tactile delivery unit 140 arranged on the left and right of the
plurality of tactile delivery units 140 and receive the sound of a
drum beat of a fast bit from the content delivery unit 150.
[0136] FIG. 19 is a view showing that a tactile pattern input
window 710 according to another embodiment of the present invention
is divided into a plurality of virtual regions 711 to 717 and a
symbol S is provided. The embodiment of FIG. 19 may be understood
as a combination of the above-described embodiments in FIGS. 16 and
18.
[0137] Each of the seven white keys in the keyboard symbol S
constitutes a plurality of virtual regions 711 to 717, and each of
the virtual regions 711 to 717 may be matched to tactile delivery
units 140a to 140g to independently operate each of the tactile
delivery units 140a to 140g. For example, if the sender touches the
keyboard in the order of 711->713->715, the receiver receives
tactile information in the order of 140a, 140c, and 140e. In
addition, Do, Mi, and Sol corresponding to the notes of the
keyboard may be provided as auditory information from the content
delivery unit 150.
[0138] FIG. 20 is a view showing a screen 760 for selecting a
tactile emoticon 706 according to an embodiment of the present
invention, and FIG. 22 is a view showing pattern signals for
various emotions according to an embodiment of the present
invention. In FIG. 22, it is assumed and described that the solid
line pattern signal drives the left tactile delivery unit 140 among
the arranged tactile delivery units 140, and the dotted line
pattern signal is a pattern signal for driving the tactile delivery
unit 140 on the right side.
[0139] Referring to FIG. 20, as {circle around (3)} the method, a
user may input a tactile pattern by selecting a tactile emoticon
706 provided in a tactile message program. The tactile emoticon 706
stores a tactile pattern corresponding to the image of the tactile
emoticon 706, and when the user selects the tactile emoticon 706,
the corresponding tactile pattern may be inputted.
[0140] As an example, if selecting a tactile emoticon 706a
representing "hahaha", joy, and exciting, an image of the tactile
emoticon 706a is displayed on and transmitted to the dialog window
720, and a pattern signal of a tactile pattern corresponding to the
tactile emoticon 706a may be transmitted. (a) of FIG. 22 is an
example of a pattern signal corresponding to the tactile emoticon
706a. In order to intuitively express feelings of "Ha Ha Ha", joy,
and exciting, the pattern signal is configured to transmit tactile
information of a feeling of jumping.
[0141] As an example, if selecting a tactile emoticon 706b
representing "love you" and heart, an image of the tactile emoticon
706b is displayed on and transmitted to the dialog window 720, and
a pattern signal of a tactile pattern corresponding to the tactile
emoticon 706b may be transmitted. (b) of FIG. 22 is an example of a
pattern signal corresponding to the tactile emoticon 706b. In order
to intuitively express feelings of "love you" and heart, the
pattern signal is configured to transmit tactile information of a
feeling of throbbing.
[0142] FIG. 21 is a view showing a screen 770 for selecting a user
emoticon 707 according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0143] Referring to FIG. 21, as {circle around (4)} the method, the
user may arbitrarily create the tactile message through the tactile
pattern input window 710 of the tactile message program and input
the tactile pattern by selecting the user emoticon 707 which is
stored in advance. The emoticon image and the corresponding tactile
pattern are stored in the user emoticon 707 in combination of
intensity, position, time, and direction of movement that the user
touches, and when the user selects user emoticon 707, the
corresponding tactile pattern may be inputted.
[0144] As an example, if selecting a tactile emoticon 707a
representing "sadness", an image of the corresponding user emoticon
707a is displayed and transmitted in the dialog window 720, and a
pattern signal of a tactile pattern included in the user emoticon
707a may be transmitted simultaneously. (c) of FIG. 22 is an
example of a pattern signal corresponding to the user emoticon
707a. In order to intuitively express the feelings of "sadness",
the pattern signal may be stored so as to transmit tactile
information of a feeling of crying.
[0145] As another example, if selecting a tactile emoticon 707b
representing "angry", an image of the corresponding user emoticon
707b is displayed and transmitted in the dialog window 720, and a
pattern signal of a tactile pattern included in the user emoticon
707b may be transmitted simultaneously. (d) of FIG. 22 is an
example of a pattern signal corresponding to the user emoticon
707b. In order to intuitively express the feelings of "angry", the
pattern signal may be stored so as to transmit tactile information
of a feeling of shouting suddenly.
[0146] On the other hand, the user may input a tactile pattern and
receive a tactile feedback to send. In addition, the memory unit
130 may store a history of the tactile pattern, date, and dialog
partner sent by the user, and may provide the user with a
history.
[0147] Referring again to FIG. 11, a tactile signal (pattern
signal) corresponding to the inputted tactile pattern may be
transmitted (S120). The control unit 170 may encode the tactile
pattern inputted through the input unit 110 as a pattern signal.
The process of encoding the tactile pattern into the pattern signal
is as described above with reference to FIGS. 15 to 17. The encoded
pattern signal is transmitted to the communication unit 160, and
the communication unit 160 may transmit the pattern signal to the
communication unit of the reception terminal device 200.
[0148] The content signal may be transmitted along with the
transmission of the tactile signal (pattern signal). In addition to
the process of inputting the tactile pattern (S110), a process of
inputting the content S115 may be further performed. The content
may include dialogue text, sounds, sound effects, and the like.
[0149] In the next step, tactile information and content
information may be transmitted (S130). The transmission of the
tactile/content information may be performed by reproducing the
tactile information and the content information through the tactile
delivery unit and the content delivery unit of the reception
terminal device 200. The tactile delivery unit 150 may be driven in
response to a tactile signal (pattern signal) as described above
with reference to FIGS. 15 to 22.
[0150] Referring again to FIG. 12, from the perspective of a
receiver, a method of providing a tactile message will be
described.
[0151] The reception terminal device 200 may confirm whether or not
there is a tactile pattern (tactile signal) in the transmitted
signal (S210). When the received signal includes only image signals
such as a simple text signal, an emoticon, and a photograph, the
dialog window 720 of the reception terminal device 200 may display
only text and images. If it is determined that the tactile pattern
(tactile signal) is included in the transmitted signal, the signal
transmitted from the control unit may be recorded in the memory
unit. When transmitting a message signal at the transmission
terminal device 100, by transmitting only the identification code
identifying that the tactile pattern (tactile signal) is contained
in the message signal, the presence or absence of the tactile
pattern may be checked at the reception terminal device 200.
[0152] Meanwhile, the reception terminal device 200 may confirm
whether or not the content signal is included in addition to the
tactile pattern (S215). If it is determined that the received
signal includes a content signal (simple text, content signal such
as auditory sense or olfactory signal except image), the signal
received from the control unit may be recorded in the memory unit.
When transmitting a message signal at the transmission terminal
device 100, by transmitting only the identification code
identifying that the content signal is contained in the message
signal, the presence or absence of the content signal may be
checked at the reception terminal device 200.
[0153] In the next step, the tactile/content signal received from
the control unit is received and written to the memory unit, and
the control unit prepares for processing (S220).
[0154] In the next step, the control unit may reproduce the visual
information, the tactile information, and the content information
including the text, image, and the like through the display unit,
the tactile delivery unit, and the content delivery unit
(S230).
[0155] FIG. 23 is a view showing a screen for receiving tactile
messages 721, 722, and 723 according to an embodiment of the
present invention. (a) of FIG. 23 shows a tactile message 721
inputted by the sender freely or using the symbol S. (b) of FIG. 23
shows a tactile message 722 transmitted by selecting the tactile
emoticon 706. (c) of FIG. 23 shows a dialog window 720 in which a
tactile message 723 transmitted by selecting the user emoticon 707
is displayed.
[0156] As shown in (a) of FIG. 23, the tactile information ti
corresponding to the tactile signal (pattern signal) included in
the tactile message 721 may be transmitted to the receiver. Also,
as shown in (b) and (c) of FIG. 23, when the tactile messages 722
and 723 simultaneously include the tactile signal (pattern signal)
and the content signal, the corresponding tactile information ti
and content information si may be transmitted to the receiver.
[0157] After running the tactile message program and selecting the
dialog partner, by touching the tactile messages 721, 722, and 723,
the receiver may receive tactile information ti and content
information si. In addition, the sender may transmit tactile
information ti and content information si to the receiver in the
form of push and notification immediately after the sender sends
the tactile message. The tactile information ti and the content
information si may be received at the same time, or sequentially
received at predetermined intervals. This may be changed freely
through the setting of the tactile message program.
[0158] If the reception terminal device 200 of the receiver is
included as a single module in which only one tactile delivery unit
140 is installed, tactile information ti such as vibration,
hitting, pushing, and tapping may be received. And, when the
reception terminal device 200 of the receiver includes a plurality
of tactile delivery units 140 as a plurality of modules, it is
possible to receive tactile information ti having directionality
such as squeezing, tightening, tilting, and tickling force in
addition to the form of the tactile information ti.
[0159] Meanwhile, according to another embodiment, without touching
the screen of the tactile message program, the tactile pattern may
be inputted. If the sender may not touch the screen of the tactile
message program, for example, if a mobile phone is on the cheek,
touching on the touch panel may be difficult. This is more
difficult during a call when the proximity sensor is activated and
the display screen is turned off.
[0160] In this case, the sender may input a tactile pattern using a
method of tapping, rotating, or shaking the transmission terminal
device 100. First, during the call, by pressing the hard key or
button of the transmission terminal device 100, or tapping the body
of the terminal device, it is possible to create a state of
entering a tactile pattern. Then, if the transmission terminal
device 100 is directly tapped, rotated, shaken, or brought into
contact with a magnetic material, acceleration sensors, gyro
sensors, gravity sensors, magnetic sensors, etc. may recognize this
pattern. The control unit 170 may generate a tactile pattern by
encoding this pattern. Then, the tactile information corresponding
to the tactile pattern may be transmitted to the receiver.
[0161] As described above, according to the present invention, as
the tactile message is transmitted through the tactile sense, it is
possible to avoid limiting the expression of the user due to
existing message services primarily based on visual. In addition,
as promptly inputting a feeling of a sender in a tactile pattern,
it is possible to transmit various tactile feeling such as
vibration, squeeze, tightening, hitting, pushing, tapping, tilting,
and tickling force to the receiver more sensitively, and the
tactile feeling may be delivered in a form corresponding to the
user's emotions. Thus, there is an effect that emotions that a user
feels in various situations allows other people to feel the same
feeling.
[0162] While the present invention has been particularly shown and
described with reference to exemplary embodiments thereof, the
present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and
within the spirit of the present invention, various changes and
modifications may be made by those skilled in the art. Such
variations and modifications are to be considered as falling within
the scope of the invention and the appended claims.
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