Optical rocker device

Abstract

This utility model discloses an optical joystick device, belonging to the field of game input devices, including a joystick mechanism, an image acquisition module, and a PCB board. The bottom of the joystick mechanism is connected to a reflective surface with micron-level texture. The image acquisition module is located directly below the reflective surface and includes a light source, a lens module, and an image sensor. During operation, light shines through the lens onto the reflective surface, and the reflected light is received and analyzed by the image sensor to achieve precise positioning of the joystick operation. This device replaces the traditional multiple sets of optical components with a single image acquisition module, featuring simple structure, low cost, high assembly efficiency, and high reliability. It provides various joystick mechanism structures and can directly replace the joystick devices of existing game controllers, making it suitable for various game devices.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model belongs to the field of game input device technology, specifically relating to an optical joystick device used in game controllers, game gamepads and other devices, and more particularly to an optical sensing joystick structure that achieves precise operation positioning based on image recognition principles. Background Technology

[0002] Existing game controller joysticks are mainly divided into two categories: mechanical potentiometer type and optical sensor type. Mechanical potentiometer joysticks suffer from rapid accuracy decay and short lifespan due to contact wear; while existing optical joysticks (such as the utility model patent with Chinese patent announcement number CN220821224U entitled "An Optical Joystick Potentiometer Device" or the utility model patent with Chinese patent announcement number CN219246467U entitled "A Non-Contact Optical Joystick Potentiometer") generally adopt a structure in which optical components are set at both ends of the X-axis and Y-axis of the rocker arm mechanism, and positioning is achieved by detecting the rotation angle of the pivot.

[0003] Traditional optical joysticks have the following drawbacks:

[0004] 1. Complex structure: Multiple optical components such as light sources, prisms, and photosensitive elements need to be configured at the two rotating shaft ends, resulting in a large number of parts (usually more than 15 core components).

[0005] 2. Higher cost: The precision machining and calibration requirements of multiple optical components lead to increased material and manufacturing costs, making them more than 30% more expensive than ordinary mechanical joysticks;

[0006] 3. Low assembly efficiency: The alignment accuracy requirement of optical components (±0.02mm) leads to complicated assembly processes, increasing the production line cycle time by about 2 times;

[0007] 4. Limited reliability: The optical components at the pivot are susceptible to dust and wear, and the accuracy decay rate exceeds 20% after long-term use.

[0008] To address the aforementioned problems, this utility model provides an optical joystick device that features a simplified structure, lower cost, convenient assembly, and stable precision. Utility Model Content

[0009] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the shortcomings of existing optical joysticks, such as complex structure, high cost, and difficult assembly, and to provide an optical joystick device that achieves precise positioning through "reflective surface + single image acquisition module", while being compatible with various joystick mechanisms, thus improving adaptability and reliability.

[0010] The above-mentioned objective of this utility model is achieved through the following technical solution: an optical rocker device, comprising a housing, a rocker mechanism, an image acquisition module, and a PCB board; the rocker mechanism is installed in the housing, the bottom end of the rocker mechanism is connected to a reflective surface, the image acquisition module is located below the reflective surface, and the image acquisition module is connected to the PCB board.

[0011] Furthermore, the image acquisition module includes a light source, a lens module, and an image sensor. The light source and the image sensor are arranged side by side on opposite sides of the reflective surface and are connected to the PCB board. The light source is an infrared LED, and the image sensor is a CMOS photosensitive chip with a resolution of ≥300dpi, whose photosensitive surface receives infrared light reflected by the reflective surface.

[0012] Furthermore, the lens module is provided with an emitting lens and an incoming lens. The emitting lens is disposed on the light-emitting path of the light source, and the incoming lens is disposed on the light-emitting path of the reflected light.

[0013] Furthermore, the reflective surface has a planar or spherical structure, is fixed to the bottom end of the rocker mechanism, and has micron-level irregular textures on its surface.

[0014] The rocker mechanism can take various structural forms:

[0015] The first structural form: The rocker mechanism includes a rocker arm, a rocker arm and a reset assembly. The rocker arm is movably installed in a shaft hole provided on the housing of the rocker device. The rocker arm is movably connected to the rocker arm. The reset assembly includes an elastic element, which is movably inserted into a hole at the bottom of the rocker arm. A reset spring is provided between the elastic element and the rocker arm.

[0016] The second structural form: The rocker mechanism includes a rocker arm, a rocker arm and a reset assembly. The rocker arm is movably connected to the rocker arm. The reset assembly includes an elastic element, which is installed in the base below the rocker arm. A reset spring is provided between the elastic element and the base.

[0017] The "rocker arm" in the above two structural forms also has two different structural forms:

[0018] The rocker arm is a double-bridge rocker arm, including an X-axis bridge and a Y-axis bridge. The X-axis bridge has X-axis rotating shaft ends at both ends, which are installed in X-axis shaft holes on the rocker arm device housing. The X-axis bridge has a first longitudinal through hole in the middle, and rocker arm mounting holes on both sides of the first longitudinal through hole. The Y-axis bridge has Y-axis rotating shaft ends at both ends, which are installed in Y-axis shaft holes on the rocker arm device housing. The Y-axis bridge has a second longitudinal through hole in the middle. The rocker arm has convex shaft portions on both side walls that are installed in the rocker arm mounting holes and are coaxial with the Y-axis rotating shaft ends. The upper end of the rocker arm passes upward through the second longitudinal through hole and has a rocker arm cap connecting end at its upper end.

[0019] The rocker arm is a single-bridge rocker arm, including an integral rocker arm bridge frame. The integral rocker arm bridge frame has rotating shaft ends at both ends, which are installed in the shaft holes on the rocker arm device housing. The two sides of the middle of the integral rocker arm bridge frame extend downward to the mounting parts, which are provided with rocker arm shaft holes. The two side walls of the rocker arm are provided with convex shaft parts that are installed in the shaft holes and are installed in the rocker arm shaft holes.

[0020] The third structure: The rocker mechanism includes a rocker arm, a universal ball joint, and a return spring. The universal ball joint is installed in a spherical groove on the top of the rocker arm housing. A central through hole is provided in the middle of the universal ball joint. The rocker arm passes through the central through hole of the universal ball joint. A lower limit stop for the return spring is provided at the lower part of the rocker arm to abut against the lower end of the return spring. The upper end of the return spring abuts against the top surface inside the rocker arm housing.

[0021] The advantages of this utility model compared with the prior art are:

[0022] 1. Significantly simplified structure: The traditional multiple optical components are integrated into a single image acquisition module, significantly reducing the number of core parts and eliminating the complex dual-axis optical alignment structure, resulting in a simpler overall structure;

[0023] 2. Significantly reduced costs: The costs of optical components, assembly processes, and total production are all significantly reduced, giving us a cost advantage in both material procurement and manufacturing.

[0024] 3. Improved reliability: The reflective surface and image acquisition module adopt a non-contact design, eliminating mechanical wear issues, significantly reducing the impact of dust on the system, and greatly extending its service life;

[0025] 4. Stable accuracy: Employing a high-resolution CMOS image sensor, combined with a micron-level texture design on the reflective surface, it enables high-precision operation control, meeting the needs of scenarios with high precision requirements, such as competitive games.

[0026] 5. Wide compatibility: Offers various joystick mechanism structures, which can directly replace the mechanical joysticks or traditional optical joysticks of existing game controllers without modifying the game controller shell structure, thus providing a wide range of compatibility;

[0027] 6. Improved assembly efficiency: The simplified optical component layout reduces the alignment accuracy requirements, makes assembly operations more convenient, and significantly shortens assembly time, which helps to improve production efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0028] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the present invention and form part of this application, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present invention and, together with their description, serve to explain the present invention, but do not constitute an undue limitation thereof. In the drawings:

[0029] Figure 1This is a semi-exploded structural diagram of Embodiment 1 of this utility model.

[0030] Figure 2 This is a fully exploded structural diagram of Embodiment 1 of this utility model.

[0031] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the overall appearance structure of Embodiment 1 of this utility model.

[0032] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of Embodiment 1 of this utility model.

[0033] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the image acquisition module in this utility model.

[0034] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the optical path between the image acquisition module and the reflective surface in this utility model.

[0035] Figure 7 This is an exploded structural diagram of the rocker mechanism in Embodiment 1 of this utility model.

[0036] Figure 8 This is a longitudinal sectional view of the rocker mechanism in Embodiment 1 of this utility model.

[0037] Figure 9 This is an exploded structural diagram of another embodiment of this utility model.

[0038] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of another embodiment of this utility model.

[0039] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the appearance structure of another embodiment of this utility model.

[0040] Figure 12 This is an exploded structural diagram of Embodiment 2 of this utility model.

[0041] Figure 13 This is an exploded structural diagram of another embodiment of the present utility model.

[0042] Figure 14 This is an exploded structural diagram of Embodiment 3 of this utility model.

[0043] Figure 15 This is an exploded structural diagram of another embodiment of the present utility model.

[0044] Figure 16 This is an exploded structural diagram of Embodiment 4 of this utility model.

[0045] Figure 17 This is an exploded structural diagram of another embodiment of the present utility model.

[0046] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the external structure of Embodiment 5 of this utility model.

[0047] Figure 19 This is a top view of Embodiment 5 of this utility model.

[0048] Figure 20 yes Figure 19 Sectional view at point AA.

[0049] In the attached diagram: 1-shell, 11-X-axis hole, 12-Y-axis hole, 13-axis hole, 14-spherical groove, 15-inner top surface, 16-stopping part, 17-center hole;

[0050] 2-Rock lever mechanism, 21-Rock lever, 211-Protruding shaft, 212-Rock lever cap connection end, 213-Bottom insertion hole, 214-Lower limit of return spring, 22-Rock arm, 221-X-direction bridge, 2211-X-direction rotation shaft end, 2212-First longitudinal through hole, 2213-Y-direction shaft hole, 222-Y-direction bridge, 2221-Y-direction rotation shaft end, 2222-Second longitudinal through hole, 223-Integrated rocker arm bridge, 2231-Rotation shaft end, 2232-Mounting part, 2233-Rock lever shaft hole, 23-Reset assembly, 231-Elastic element, 232-Reset spring, 233-Base, 24-Universal ball joint, 241-Center through hole;

[0051] 3-Image acquisition module, 31-Light source, 32-Lens module, 321-Emitting lens, 322-Incoming lens, 33-Image sensor;

[0052] 4-PCB board;

[0053] 5-Reflective surface. Detailed Implementation

[0054] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer, the present utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments and accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these descriptions are merely exemplary and not intended to limit the scope of this utility model. Furthermore, descriptions of well-known structures and technologies are omitted in the following description to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the concept of this utility model.

[0055] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, an optical rocker device includes a housing 1, a rocker mechanism 2, an image acquisition module 3, and a PCB board 4. The bottom end of the rocker mechanism 2 is connected to a reflective surface 5, which has a planar or spherical structure (a spherical structure is used in this embodiment). The center of the sphere of the reflective surface 5 coincides with the swing center of the rocker mechanism 2. The reflective surface 5 is fixed to the bottom end of the rocker mechanism 2, and the surface of the reflective surface 5 has micron-level irregular textures.

[0056] like Figure 5 , Figure 6 As shown, the image acquisition module 3 is located below the reflective surface 5 and includes a light source 31, a lens module 32, and an image sensor 33. The light source 31 and the image sensor 33 are arranged side by side on opposite sides of the reflective surface 5. The light source 31 and the image acquisition module 3 are connected to a PCB board 4 via pins. The PCB board 4 can be an independent PCB board installed inside a potentiometer, or it can be the main control PCB board of a game controller (in this embodiment, an independent PCB board installed inside a potentiometer is used). The lens module 32 is integrally formed and includes an emitting lens 321 and an incoming lens 322. The emitting lens 321 is aligned with the light source 31 and is used to refract light to the reflective surface 5. The incoming lens 322 is used to receive the reflected light and focus it onto the image sensor 33. The emitting lens 321 is located on the light-emitting path of the light source 31, and the incoming lens 322 is located on the light-emitting path of the reflected light. The light source 31 is an infrared LED, and the image sensor 33 is a CMOS photosensitive chip with a resolution ≥300dpi. Its photosensitive surface receives infrared light reflected by the reflective surface 5.

[0057] like Figure 7 , Figure 8 As shown, the rocker mechanism 2 includes a rocker arm 21, a rocker arm 22, and a reset assembly 23. The rocker arm 22 is a double-bridge rocker arm, including an X-axis bridge 221 and a Y-axis bridge 222. The X-axis bridge 221 has X-axis rotation shaft ends 2211 at both ends, which are installed in X-axis shaft holes 11 on the rocker device housing 1. The X-axis bridge 221 has a first longitudinal through hole 2212 in the middle, and rocker arm mounting holes 2213 on both sides of the first longitudinal through hole 2212. The Y-axis bridge 222 has Y-axis rotation shaft ends 2221 at both ends, which are installed in Y-axis shaft holes 12 on the rocker device housing 1. The Y-axis bridge 222 has a second longitudinal through hole 2222 in the middle. The rocker arm 21... 1. Both sides of the rocker arm 21 are provided with convex shaft portions 211 installed in the rocker arm mounting holes 2213 and are coaxial with the Y-axis rotation shaft end 2221. The upper end of the rocker arm 21 passes through the second longitudinal through hole 2222 and is provided with a rocker arm cap connecting end 212 at its upper end. The reset assembly 23 includes an elastic element 231, which is movably inserted into the bottom insertion hole 213 of the rocker arm 21. A reset spring 232 is provided between the elastic element 231 and the rocker arm 21. The bottom of the elastic element 231 is provided with a disc portion. The housing 1 is provided with a stop portion 16 that cooperates with the disc portion. The middle of the stop portion 16 is provided with a central hole 17. The center of the bottom end of the elastic element 231 extends through the central hole 17 and is connected to the reflective surface 5.

[0058] Another version of this embodiment, such as Figure 9 , Figure 10 and Figure 11The structure shown is the same as the one described above, but the shape is slightly different to suit the appearance requirements of different game controllers.

[0059] Working principle:

[0060] The working principle of this optical joystick device is based on optical image recognition technology, as detailed below:

[0061] When the user operates the joystick cap, the joystick 21 drives the Y-axis bridge 222 to rotate around the Y-axis rotation shaft end 2221 with the convex shaft part 211 as the axis. At the same time, the Y-axis bridge 222 drives the X-axis bridge 221 to rotate around the X-axis rotation shaft end 2211 through the Y-axis rotation shaft end 2221 and the joystick mounting hole 2213, so as to realize the joystick 21's all-round tilting movement in the XY plane.

[0062] During this process, the reflective surface 5, fixed to the bottom of the rocker arm 21, moves synchronously with the rocker arm 21, and its spatial position changes. At the same time, the infrared LED light source 31 continuously emits infrared light, which is refracted by the light-emitting lens 321 and then shines on the surface of the reflective surface 5. Because the surface of the reflective surface 5 has micron-level irregular textures, the light undergoes diffuse reflection on the reflective surface 5, forming a light spot pattern with textured features.

[0063] The light spot pattern is focused by the light-gathering lens 322 and projected onto the photosensitive surface of the CMOS photosensitive chip of the image sensor 33. The image sensor 33 continuously acquires image information of the reflected light spot at a high frame rate of ≥1500 frames / second. By comparing and analyzing the displacement changes of the light spot pattern in adjacent frames, the image sensor 33 can calculate the motion trajectory and displacement of the reflecting surface 5, and thus determine the tilt direction and angle of the rocker arm 21.

[0064] These displacement data are transmitted to the game controller's main control chip via PCB board 4, and are ultimately converted into directional control signals in the game, enabling precise control of game characters or objects.

[0065] When the user releases the joystick cap, the elastic force of the return spring 232 pushes the elastic element 231 to reset, thereby driving the joystick 21 back to the initial position, completing one operation cycle.

[0066] like Figure 12 As shown, an optical rocker device includes a housing 1, a rocker mechanism 2, an image acquisition module 3, and a PCB board 4; the bottom end of the rocker mechanism 2 is connected to a reflective surface 5, which has a planar or spherical structure and is fixed to the bottom end of the rocker mechanism 2. The surface of the reflective surface 5 has micron-level irregular textures.

[0067] The image acquisition module 3 is the same as in Embodiment 1, such as... Figure 12 and refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5As shown, the image acquisition module 3 is located below the reflective surface 5 and includes a light source 31, a lens module 32, and an image sensor 33. The light source 31 and the image sensor 33 are arranged side by side on opposite sides of the reflective surface 5, and the image acquisition module 3 is connected to the PCB board 4. The lens module 32 is integrally formed and includes an emitting lens 321 and an incoming lens 322. The emitting lens 321 is aligned with the light source 31 and is used to refract light to the reflective surface 5. The incoming lens 322 is used to receive the reflected light and focus it onto the image sensor 33. The emitting lens 321 is located on the light-emitting path of the light source 31, and the incoming lens 322 is located on the light-emitting path of the reflected light. The light source 31 is an infrared LED, and the image sensor 33 is a CMOS photosensitive chip with a resolution ≥300dpi. Its photosensitive surface receives infrared light reflected by the reflective surface 5.

[0068] like Figure 12 As shown, the rocker mechanism 2 includes a rocker arm 21, a rocker arm 22, and a reset assembly 23. The rocker arm 22 is a double-bridge rocker arm, including an X-axis bridge 221 and a Y-axis bridge 222. The X-axis bridge 221 has X-axis rotation shaft ends 2211 at both ends, which are installed in the X-axis shaft holes 11 on the rocker device housing 1. The X-axis bridge 221 has a first longitudinal through hole 2212 in the middle, and rocker arm mounting holes 2213 on both sides of the first longitudinal through hole 2212. The Y-axis bridge 222 has Y-axis rotation shaft ends 2221 at both ends, which are installed on the rocker device housing 1. In the Y-axis hole 12, the Y-axis bridge 222 is provided with a second longitudinal through hole 2222 in the middle; the rocker arm 21 is provided with a convex shaft portion 211 installed in the rocker arm assembly hole 2213 on both side walls, and is coaxial with the Y-axis rotation shaft end 2221. The upper end of the rocker arm 21 passes through the second longitudinal through hole 2222 upward, and is provided with a rocker arm cap connection end 212 at its upper end; the reset assembly 23 includes an elastic element 231, which is installed in the base 233 in the housing 1 below the rocker arm 21, and a reset spring 232 is provided between the elastic element 231 and the base 233.

[0069] Another version of this embodiment, such as Figure 13 As shown, the designs vary slightly to suit the appearance requirements of different game controllers.

[0070] Working principle:

[0071] When the user operates the joystick cap, the joystick 21 drives the Y-axis bridge 222 and X-axis bridge 221 to rotate around the Y-axis rotation axis end 2221 and X-axis rotation axis end 2211 respectively, realizing omnidirectional tilting motion. At this time, the reflective surface 5 fixed to the bottom end of the joystick 21 moves synchronously with the joystick 21.

[0072] Infrared light emitted by light source 31 is incident on reflective surface 5 through light-emitting lens 321. After being reflected by micron-level irregular texture, the resulting light spot pattern is focused onto image sensor 33 by light-entry lens 322. Image sensor 33 acquires continuous images and analyzes their displacement changes, calculates the motion parameters of joystick 21, and transmits them to the main control chip through ribbon cable interface.

[0073] Unlike Embodiment 1, the reset assembly 23 in this embodiment uses a base 233 to support the elastic element 231 and the reset spring 232. When the rocker arm 21 is tilted, its bottom end presses against the elastic element 231, compressing the reset spring 232; when the rocker arm 21 is released, the elastic force of the reset spring 232 is transmitted to the rocker arm 21 through the elastic element 231, causing it to reset. This structure makes the reset force more stable, reduces reset deviation after long-term use, and improves operational consistency.

[0074] like Figure 14 As shown, an optical rocker device includes a housing 1, a rocker mechanism 2, an image acquisition module 3, and a PCB board 4; the bottom end of the rocker mechanism 2 is connected to a reflective surface 5, which has a planar or spherical structure and is fixed to the bottom end of the rocker mechanism 2. The surface of the reflective surface 5 has micron-level irregular textures.

[0075] The image acquisition module 3 is the same as in Embodiment 1, such as... Figure 14 and refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5 As shown, the image acquisition module 3 is located below the reflective surface 5 and includes a light source 31, a lens module 32, and an image sensor 33. The light source 31 and the image sensor 33 are arranged side by side on opposite sides of the reflective surface 5, and the image acquisition module 3 is connected to the PCB board 4. The lens module 32 is integrally formed and includes an emitting lens 321 and an incoming lens 322. The emitting lens 321 is aligned with the light source 31 and is used to refract light to the reflective surface 5. The incoming lens 322 is used to receive the reflected light and focus it onto the image sensor 33. The emitting lens 321 is located on the light-emitting path of the light source 31, and the incoming lens 322 is located on the light-emitting path of the reflected light. The light source 31 is an infrared LED, and the image sensor 33 is a CMOS photosensitive chip with a resolution ≥300dpi. Its photosensitive surface receives infrared light reflected by the reflective surface 5.

[0076] like Figure 14As shown, the rocker mechanism 2 includes a rocker arm 21, a rocker arm 22, and a reset assembly 23. The rocker arm 22 is a single-bridge rocker arm, including an integral rocker arm bridge 223. The integral rocker arm bridge 223 has rotating shaft ends 2231 at both ends, which are installed in the shaft holes 13 on the rocker device housing 1. The integral rocker arm bridge 223 has mounting portions 2232 extending downward from both sides of the middle of the integral rocker arm bridge 223. The mounting portions 2232 have rocker arm shaft holes 2233. The rocker arm 21 has convex shaft portions 211 on both side walls that are installed in the rocker arm shaft holes 2233. The reset assembly 23 includes an elastic element 231, which is movably inserted into the bottom insertion hole 213 of the rocker arm 21 (see reference). Figure 8 In the case, a return spring 232 is provided between the elastic element 231 and the rocker arm 21. The bottom of the elastic element 231 is provided with a disc portion. The housing 1 is provided with a stop portion 16 that cooperates with the disc portion. The middle of the stop portion 16 is provided with a central hole 17. The bottom center of the elastic element 231 extends through the central hole 17 and is connected to the reflective surface 5.

[0077] Another version of this embodiment, such as Figure 15 As shown, the designs vary slightly to suit the appearance requirements of different game controllers.

[0078] Working principle:

[0079] When the user operates the joystick cap, the joystick 21 rotates in the joystick shaft hole 2233 of the integrated rocker arm bridge 223 through the convex shaft part 211. At the same time, it can drive the integrated rocker arm bridge 223 to rotate around the rotating shaft end 2231 in the shaft hole 13 of the housing 1 in another direction, so as to realize the all-round tilting movement of the joystick 21.

[0080] The reflective surface 5, fixed to the bottom of the joystick 21, moves synchronously with the joystick 21. Infrared light emitted by the light source 31 is refracted by the light-emitting lens 321 and then shines onto the reflective surface 5. After diffuse reflection by the micron-level irregular texture, a specific light spot pattern is formed. This light spot pattern is focused onto the image sensor 33 by the light-entry lens 322. The image sensor 33 continuously acquires images and analyzes the displacement changes of adjacent frames, calculates the motion parameters of the joystick 21, and transmits them to the main control chip through the ribbon cable interface, converting them into game control signals.

[0081] When the joystick cap is released, the return spring 232 pushes the elastic element 231 to reset, causing the joystick 21 to return to its initial position, completing the operation cycle. The single-bridge rocker arm structure simplifies the structural design by using a single rotation axis of the integrated rocker arm bridge 223 to cooperate with the convex shaft portion 211 of the joystick 21, while maintaining 0.1° level operating accuracy, making it suitable for cost-sensitive entry-level game controllers.

[0082] like Figure 16As shown, an optical rocker device includes a housing 1, a rocker mechanism 2, an image acquisition module 3, and a PCB board 4; the bottom end of the rocker mechanism 2 is connected to a reflective surface 5, which has a planar or spherical structure and is fixed to the bottom end of the rocker mechanism 2. The surface of the reflective surface 5 has micron-level irregular textures.

[0083] The image acquisition module 3 is the same as in Embodiment 1, such as... Figure 16 and refer to Figure 5 , Figure 6 As shown, the image acquisition module 3 is located below the reflective surface 5 and includes a light source 31, a lens module 32, and an image sensor 33. The light source 31 and the image sensor 33 are arranged side by side on opposite sides of the reflective surface 5, and the image acquisition module 3 is connected to the PCB board 4. The lens module 32 is integrally formed and includes an emitting lens 321 and an incoming lens 322. The emitting lens 321 is aligned with the light source 31 and is used to refract light to the reflective surface 5. The incoming lens 322 is used to receive the reflected light and focus it onto the image sensor 33. The emitting lens 321 is located on the light-emitting path of the light source 31, and the incoming lens 322 is located on the light-emitting path of the reflected light. The light source 31 is an infrared LED, and the image sensor 33 is a CMOS photosensitive chip with a resolution ≥300dpi. Its photosensitive surface receives infrared light reflected by the reflective surface 5.

[0084] like Figure 16 As shown, the rocker mechanism 2 includes a rocker arm 21, a rocker arm 22, and a reset assembly 23. The rocker arm 22 is a single-bridge rocker arm, including an integral rocker arm bridge 223. The integral rocker arm bridge 223 has rotating shaft ends 2231 at both ends, which are installed in the shaft holes 13 on the rocker device housing 1. The two sides of the middle of the integral rocker arm bridge 223 extend downward to the mounting portions 2232, which are provided with rocker shaft holes 2233. The two side walls of the rocker arm 21 are provided with convex shaft portions 211 installed in the rocker shaft holes 2233. The reset assembly 23 includes an elastic element 231, which is installed in the base 233 below the rocker arm 21. A reset spring 232 is provided between the elastic element 231 and the base 233. The upper end of the rocker arm 21 is provided with a rocker arm cap connecting end 212.

[0085] Another version of this embodiment, such as Figure 17 As shown, the designs vary slightly to suit the appearance requirements of different game controllers.

[0086] Working principle:

[0087] When the user operates the joystick cap, the joystick 21 rotates within the joystick shaft hole 2233 of the integrated rocker arm bridge 223 around the convex shaft portion 211. Simultaneously, it can drive the integrated rocker arm bridge 223 to rotate around the rotating shaft end 2231 in another direction, realizing the omnidirectional tilting movement of the joystick 21. The reflective surface 5 fixed to the bottom end of the joystick 21 moves synchronously with it.

[0088] Infrared light emitted by light source 31 is projected onto reflective surface 5 via light-emitting lens 321. After reflection by micron-level irregular texture, the resulting light spot pattern is focused onto image sensor 33 via light-entry lens 322. Image sensor 33 continuously acquires images at a frame rate of ≥1500 frames / second. By analyzing the displacement changes of the light spot pattern in adjacent frames, it calculates the tilt angle and direction of joystick 21 and transmits the data to PCB board 4, ultimately converting it into game control signals.

[0089] The reset function is achieved by a reset spring 232 installed between the base 233 and the elastic element 231: when the joystick 21 is tilted, its bottom end presses against the elastic element 231, compressing the reset spring 232; after release, the elastic force of the reset spring 232 pushes the elastic element 231 back to its original position, causing the joystick 21 to return to its initial position. The single-bridge rocker arm structure reduces the number of shaft parts by 50%, and combined with the lower reset design, reduces the overall height by 15%, making it suitable for ultra-thin game controllers.

[0090] like Figure 18 , Figure 19 and Figure 20 As shown, an optical rocker device includes a housing 1, a rocker mechanism 2, an image acquisition module 3, and a PCB board 4; the bottom end of the rocker mechanism 2 is connected to a reflective surface 5, which has a planar or spherical structure and is fixed to the bottom end of the rocker mechanism 2. The surface of the reflective surface 5 has micron-level irregular textures.

[0091] The image acquisition module 3 is located below the reflective surface 5 and includes a light source 31, a lens module 32, and an image sensor 33. The light source 31 and the image sensor 33 are arranged side by side on opposite sides of the reflective surface 5. The image acquisition module 3 is connected to the PCB board 4. (Reference) Figure 5 , Figure 6 The lens module 32 is integrally formed and includes an emitting lens 321 and an incoming lens 322. The emitting lens 321 is aligned with the light source 31 and is used to refract light to the reflecting surface 5. The incoming lens 322 is used to receive the reflected light and focus it onto the image sensor 33. The emitting lens 321 is disposed on the light-emitting path of the light source 31, and the incoming lens 322 is disposed on the light-emitting path of the reflected light. The light source 31 is an infrared LED, and the image sensor 33 is a CMOS photosensitive chip with a resolution ≥300dpi. Its photosensitive surface receives infrared light reflected by the reflecting surface 5.

[0092] like Figure 20 As shown, the rocker mechanism 2 includes a rocker arm 21, a universal ball joint 24, and a return spring 232. The universal ball joint 24 is installed in the spherical groove 14 on the top of the rocker arm housing 1. The universal ball joint 24 has a central through hole 241 in the middle. The rocker arm 21 passes through the central through hole 241 of the universal ball joint 24. The lower part of the rocker arm 21 has a lower limit 214 for the return spring, which is used to abut against the lower end of the return spring 232. The upper end of the return spring 232 abuts against the inner top surface 15 of the rocker arm housing 1. The upper end of the rocker arm 21 has a rocker arm cap connection end 212.

[0093] Working principle:

[0094] This embodiment employs a universal ball joint structure to achieve omnidirectional movement without axis restrictions. When the user operates the joystick cap, the joystick 21 rotates freely within the spherical groove 14 of the housing 1 via the universal ball joint 24, enabling the joystick 21 to tilt and swing in any direction of 360°. The reflective surface 5, fixed to the bottom of the joystick 21, moves synchronously with it. Infrared light emitted by the light source 31 is refracted by the light-emitting lens 321 and then shines onto the reflective surface 5. The light spot pattern formed by diffuse reflection through the micron-level irregular texture is focused onto the image sensor 33 by the light-receiving lens 322.

[0095] Image sensor 33 continuously acquires light spot images and analyzes their displacement changes. The algorithm calculates the three-dimensional motion parameters of joystick 21, namely the X / Y axis tilt angle and rotation angle. The data is transmitted to the main control chip via PCB board 4 to realize richer game operations, such as composite control of character view rotation and directional movement.

[0096] The reset function is achieved by a reset spring 232 fitted on the rocker arm 21: the upper end of the reset spring 232 abuts against the inner top surface 15 of the housing 1, and the lower end is supported by the lower limit 214 of the reset spring. When the rocker arm 21 is tilted, the reset spring 232 deforms due to uneven force; after being released, the balanced elastic force of the spring causes the rocker arm 21 to automatically return to the center and reset.

[0097] The universal ball joint structure eliminates the shaft friction of traditional rocker arms, reduces operating force by 30%, and reduces moving parts by 60%, significantly improving long-term reliability with a measured lifespan of ≥2 million operations.

[0098] The above description is merely an embodiment of this utility model and does not limit the patent scope of this utility model. Any equivalent structural or procedural transformations made based on the description and drawings of this utility model, or direct or indirect applications in other related technical fields, are similarly included within the patent protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. An optical joystick device, characterized in that: It includes a housing (1), a rocker mechanism (2), an image acquisition module (3), and a PCB board (4); the rocker mechanism (2) is installed in the housing (1), and a reflective surface (5) is connected to the bottom of the rocker mechanism (2); the image acquisition module (3) is located below the reflective surface (5), and the image acquisition module (3) is connected to the PCB board (4); The image acquisition module (3) includes a light source (31), a lens module (32) and an image sensor (33). The light source (31) and the image sensor (33) are arranged side by side on opposite sides of the reflective surface (5) and connected to the PCB board (4).

2. The optical joystick device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The lens module (32) is provided with an output lens (321) and an input lens (322). The output lens (321) is located on the output path of the light source (31), and the input lens (322) is located on the output path of the reflected light.

3. The optical joystick device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The light source (31) is an infrared LED lamp; the image sensor (33) is a CMOS photosensitive chip, whose photosensitive surface receives infrared light reflected by the reflective surface (5).

4. The optical joystick device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The reflective surface (5) has a planar or spherical structure and is fixed to the bottom of the rocker mechanism (2). The surface of the reflective surface (5) has micron-level irregular texture (51).

5. An optical joystick device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The rocker mechanism (2) includes a rocker arm (21), a rocker arm (22), and a reset assembly (23). The rocker arm (22) is movably installed in a shaft hole provided on the housing (1) of the rocker device. The rocker arm (21) is movably connected to the rocker arm (22). The reset assembly (23) includes an elastic element (231). The elastic element (231) is movably inserted into the bottom insertion hole (213) of the rocker arm (21). A reset spring (232) is provided between the elastic element (231) and the rocker arm (21).

6. An optical joystick device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The rocker mechanism (2) includes a rocker (21), a rocker arm (22) and a reset assembly (23). The rocker (21) is movably connected to the rocker arm (22). The reset assembly (23) includes an elastic element (231). The elastic element (231) is installed in a base (233) below the rocker (21). A reset spring (232) is provided between the elastic element (231) and the base (233).

7. An optical joystick device according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that: The rocker arm (22) is a double-bridge rocker arm, including an X-axis bridge (221) and a Y-axis bridge (222). The X-axis bridge (221) has X-axis rotating shaft ends (2211) at both ends, which are installed in the X-axis shaft holes (11) on the rocker arm device housing (1). The X-axis bridge (221) has a first longitudinal through hole (2212) in the middle, and rocker arm mounting holes (2213) are provided on both sides of the first longitudinal through hole (2212). The Y-axis bridge (222) has Y-axis rotating shaft ends at both ends. The rotating shaft end (2221) is installed in the Y-axis shaft hole (12) on the rocker arm housing (1). The Y-axis bridge (222) is provided with a second longitudinal through hole (2222) in the middle. The rocker arm (21) has a convex shaft part (211) on both sides of the rocker arm (213) and is coaxial with the Y-axis rotating shaft end (2221). The upper end of the rocker arm (21) passes through the second longitudinal through hole (2222) upward and has a rocker arm cap connecting end (212) at its upper end.

8. An optical joystick device according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that: The rocker arm (22) is a single-bridge rocker arm, including an integral rocker arm bridge (223). The integral rocker arm bridge (223) has rotating shaft ends (2231) at both ends, which are installed in the shaft holes (13) on the rocker arm device housing (1). The two sides of the middle part of the integral rocker arm bridge (223) extend downward to the mounting parts (2232). The mounting parts (2232) are provided with rocker arm shaft holes (2233). The two side walls of the rocker arm (21) are provided with convex shaft parts (211) installed in the shaft holes, and installed in the rocker arm shaft holes (2233).

9. An optical joystick device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The rocker mechanism (2) includes a rocker arm (21), a universal ball joint (24), and a return spring (232). The universal ball joint (24) is installed in the spherical groove (14) at the top of the rocker arm housing (1). The universal ball joint (24) has a central through hole (241) in the middle. The rocker arm (21) passes through the central through hole (241) of the universal ball joint (24). The rocker arm (21) has a lower limit (214) for the return spring at the lower part, which is used to hold the lower end of the return spring (232). The upper end of the return spring (232) abuts against the inner top surface (15) of the rocker arm housing (1).

Images