- New patent filed by Microsoft details improved haptic feedback motors
- They can produce more intense haptic feedback.
- Or tune to simulate vibrations that can be perceived in multiple ways.
More advanced haptic feedback could be coming to Xbox controllers, that is, if we’re going by a recent patent filed by Microsoft.
As spotted by gaming blog tech4gamers, the patent was published earlier this month and details a new type of haptic feedback engine. On the current Xbox wireless controller, there is a haptic feedback motor located on each grip, securely attached to the controller housing.
Each haptic feedback motor features a motor shaft attached to an eccentric mass (or ERM) counterweight which is actually just an unbalanced cylindrical weight. The ERM rotates rapidly on the motor shaft to produce the vibrating effect we all know and love. Xbox wireless controller models with translucent faceplates, like the cool Ghost Cipher Special Edition, even let you see this mechanism in action if you look closely.
The patent describes the concept of a haptic motor that is not connected to the controller housing. Instead, it moves relative to it, which, according to the patent, allows for significantly increased vibration output. This could potentially be used to reduce the size of the haptic motors used in controllers, reducing the cost and environmental impact of manufacturing. Alternatively, the size of the haptic motor could be kept the same for more powerful haptic feedback.
He also explains that this new form of haptic motor can be tuned with different masses, stiffness and damping factors to create a range of vibration frequencies that are perceived in different ways. In theory, this could lead to much more detailed and interesting haptic feedback, perhaps finally giving the highly immersive DualSense wireless controller’s haptic feedback a chance.
Interestingly, the patent goes on to state that this new haptic feedback engine would be compatible with older games, which is definitely good news for those who already have extensive game libraries.
Of course, the existence of a patent is far from official confirmation that some kind of new or improved controller is in the works. Companies often file patents for technology that never end up reaching consumers. We’ll have to wait and see if Microsoft has anything in store.
