A haptic feedback interface device and actuator assembly providing inertial tactile
sensations. An interface device includes a housing that is physically contacted
by a user, a sensor device detecting said manipulation of the interface device
by the user, and an actuator assembly of the present invention. The assembly includes
an actuator operative to output a force and a mechanism coupling the actuator to
the device housing. The mechanism allows the actuator to be moved and act as an
inertial mass when in motion to provide an inertial force that is transmitted to
the user. The mechanism includes at least two separated portions, each of the portions
coupled to a different portion of the actuator. The mechanism is preferably a flexure
having at least two flex joints.