Abstract: Current mobile devices that feature force feedback touchpads include haptic engines that operate in a narrow bandwidth and therefore cannot be used as a dual-purpose center channel for media playback. Further, a separate dedicated loudspeaker for a center channel would add cost and reduce integration space. The presently disclosed dual-use haptic trackpad loudspeaker can enable an enhanced audio experience without the need for an additional dedicated loudspeaker. The dual-use haptic trackpad loudspeaker can be used for haptics feedback as well as provide audio output over the frequency range 400 Hz to 10 kHz. The dual-use haptic trackpad loudspeaker may use a tuned spring-mass actuator and adopt mechanical properties to provide a specific desired mechanical compliance to the dual-use haptic trackpad loudspeaker.

Abstract: Current mobile devices that feature force feedback touchpads include haptic engines that operate in a narrow bandwidth and therefore cannot be used as a dual-purpose center channel for media playback. Further, a separate dedicated loudspeaker for a center channel would add cost and reduce integration space. The presently disclosed dual-use haptic trackpad loudspeaker can enable an enhanced audio experience without the need for an additional dedicated loudspeaker. The dual-use haptic trackpad loudspeaker can be used for haptics feedback as well as provide audio output over the frequency range 400 Hz to 10 kHz. The dual-use haptic trackpad loudspeaker may use a tuned spring-mass actuator and adopt mechanical properties to provide a specific desired mechanical compliance to the dual-use haptic trackpad loudspeaker.