Reference Design For Audio To Haptics

This ready-to-use and customisable solution is ideal for next-generation VR, AR, and gaming devices, providing real-time, immersive haptic feedback that enhances user engagement.

The Audio to Haptic Reference Design is a comprehensive solution that provides immersive haptic feedback by converting audio input into tactile sensations. It is optimised for game controllers, virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) applications, allowing users to experience realistic touch feedback based on audio signals. This design enables a highly responsive and natural interaction by processing Bluetooth audio input and translating it into intuitive haptic feedback. It supports up to four haptic actuators and incorporates a high-voltage amplifier with an integrated Boost regulator for efficient power management.

The system extracts relevant signal patterns from audio sources and converts them into touch-based haptic responses, enhancing the overall sensory experience. It is designed to work seamlessly with wide-frequency bandwidth actuators, ensuring accurate and natural haptic feedback. The reference design consists of two primary boards: the Low Voltage Board and the High Voltage Board. The Low Voltage Board contains the Bluetooth module (BM83), responsible for synchronizing stereo audio wirelessly, as well as the microcontroller and digital signal processing (DSP) unit, which processes and conditions the audio signals. The High Voltage Board includes high-voltage operational amplifiers (HV56020/2) and a Boost regulator, which drive the haptic actuators and ensure proper voltage levels. T

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The design by Microchip Technology operates by receiving stereo audio input through the BM83 Bluetooth module, which is then processed using an integrated DSP to extract suitable signal patterns for haptic feedback. The processed waveforms are further conditioned and amplified by the HV56020/2 high-voltage amplifiers, capable of delivering up to 225V to drive the actuators effectively. The Boost regulator ensures a stable power supply to the amplifiers while also allowing for SPI-based control and monitoring.

It is preprogrammed with firmware for immediate use, but it also offers flexibility for customization. Users can modify the firmware through dedicated connectors, making it a versatile solution for developers. The system is designed specifically for battery-powered applications, making it ideal for portable VR and gaming devices. A Li-Ion battery (not included) can be connected to power the system and recharged via a USB interface. 

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The audio-to-haptic conversion strategy and power optimization techniques used in this design are patented by Microchip, ensuring an efficient and high-performance implementation. The design incorporates key components such as the PIC16F1459 microcontroller, HV56020/22 haptic drive amplifiers, MCP1804 voltage regulator, BM83 Bluetooth 5.0 module, and MCP6421 operational amplifier, all of which contribute to the system’s reliable performance. 

Microchip Technology has tested this reference design. It includes a bill of materials (BOM), schematics, assembly drawing, printed circuit board (PCB) layout, and more. Additional data about the reference design is available on the company’s website. To learn more, click here.