- A new patent filed by Microsoft describes improved haptic feedback engines
- They can produce more intense haptic feedback
- Or be tuned to simulate vibrations that can be sensed in multiple ways
More advanced haptic feedback could be coming to Xbox controllers, at least if a recent patent filed by Microsoft is anything to go by.
As noted by a gaming blog tech4gamersthe patent was published earlier this month and describes a new kind of haptic feedback engine. In the current Xbox Wireless Controller, each handle contains a haptic feedback motor, securely attached to the controller body.
Each haptic feedback motor has a motor shaft attached to an eccentric mass counterweight (or ERM), which is essentially just an unbalanced, cylindrical weight. The ERM is quickly rotated on the motor shaft to produce the vibrating effect we all know and love. With Xbox Wireless Controller models with translucent faceplates, like the cool Ghost Cipher Special Edition, you can even see this mechanism in action if you look closely.
The patent outlines the concept of a haptic motor that is not attached to the controller’s housing. Instead, it moves relative to it, which allows for significantly increased vibration output, according to the patent. This could potentially be used to reduce the size of the haptic motors used in controllers, reducing the cost and environmental impact of production. Alternatively, the size of the haptic motor could be kept the same for a more powerful haptic response.
It also explains that this new form of haptic motor can be tuned with different mass, 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 DualSense Wireless Controller’s highly immersive haptic feedback a run for its money.
Interestingly, the patent goes on to state that this new haptic feedback engine would be backwards compatible with older games, which is certainly good news for those who already have extensive game libraries.
Of course, the existence of a patent is far from an official confirmation that a new or improved controller is in the works. Companies regularly file patents for technology that ultimately never reaches consumers. We’ll have to wait and see if Microsoft has anything up its sleeve.