Extensible controller
By designing an extendable controller and employing a dual reciprocating opposite motion carrier system and opposite motion mechanism, the problem of asymmetrical configuration of mobile game controllers was solved, achieving symmetrical extension and retraction, and improving the stability and aesthetics of the user experience.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202280093324.7
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2022-03-11
- Publication Date
- 2025-12-05
- Estimated Expiration
- 2042-03-11
AI Technical Summary
The clamping mechanism of existing mobile phone game controllers results in an asymmetrical configuration, leading to uneven support on the back of the mobile phone, unstable user experience, and an unsightly appearance.
The design employs an extendable controller, including first and second handle sections, a slender bridge, and an extendable device. Symmetrical extension and retraction of the handle section are achieved through a dual reciprocating opposite motion carrier system and an opposite motion mechanism, ensuring that the middle section always remains in the center.
It achieves symmetrical extension and retraction movements, providing uniform support for mobile phones and improving user experience stability and aesthetics.
Smart Images

Figure CN118900714B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The embodiments generally relate to a scalable controller, and particularly to a symmetrically scalable controller. Background Technology
[0002] In the market, game controllers for mobile phones typically include a clamping mechanism for attaching the mobile phone to the corresponding game controller. Typically, the clamping mechanism uses a single stacked slider, causing an asymmetrical configuration of the extended single stacked slider when the left controller is pulled away from the right controller, or vice versa. Such an asymmetrical configuration can result in unequal back support for the mobile phone. Such game controllers can also lead to a wobbly and unstable mobile phone clamping experience for the user, which can be frustrating. Furthermore, such game controllers may also be aesthetically unappealing in use.
[0003] Therefore, a controller is needed to solve at least some of the problems mentioned above. Summary of the Invention
[0004] According to various embodiments, an extendable controller may be provided, comprising: a first handle portion having a first bridge portion extending from a first handle body portion; a second handle portion having a second bridge portion extending from a second handle body portion; an elongated bridge, wherein a first half of the elongated bridge is slidably engaged with the first bridge portion of the first handle portion along a longitudinal axis of the elongated bridge, and a second half of the elongated bridge is slidably engaged with the second bridge portion of the second handle portion along a longitudinal axis of the elongated bridge; and an extendable device that interconnects the elongated bridge, the first handle portion, and the second handle portion in such a manner that the first handle portion and the second handle portion extend and retract synchronously in opposite directions relative to the elongated bridge along an extension axis, the extension axis being parallel to or coincident with the longitudinal axis of the elongated bridge. The extendable device includes a dual reciprocating counter-movement carrier system within the elongated bridge. The dual reciprocating opposing motion carrier system includes: a first reciprocating carrier movable relative to an elongated bridge along a first carrier path and within the elongated bridge; a second reciprocating carrier movable relative to the elongated bridge along a second carrier path and within the elongated bridge; and an opposing motion mechanism interconnecting the first and second reciprocating carriers, the opposing motion mechanism being configured to move the first and second reciprocating carriers in opposite directions relative to the extension axis of the extendable device. The extendable device further includes: a first elongated member having a first end portion connected to a first handle portion and a second end portion connected to the first reciprocating carrier of the dual reciprocating opposing motion carrier system; and a second elongated member having a first end portion connected to a second handle portion and a second end portion connected to the second reciprocating carrier of the dual reciprocating opposing motion carrier system.
[0005] According to various embodiments, an extendable controller may be provided, comprising: a first handle portion having a first bridge portion extending from a first handle body portion; a second handle portion having a second bridge portion extending from a second handle body portion; an elongated bridge, wherein a first half of the elongated bridge is slidably engaged with the first bridge portion of the first handle portion along a longitudinal axis of the elongated bridge, and a second half of the elongated bridge is slidably engaged with the second bridge portion of the second handle portion along a longitudinal axis of the elongated bridge; and an extendable means for interconnecting the elongated bridge, the first handle portion, and the second handle portion in such a way that the first handle portion and the second handle portion extend and retract synchronously in opposite directions relative to the elongated bridge along an extension axis, the extension axis being parallel to or coincident with the longitudinal axis of the elongated bridge. The extendable device includes: a first pulley rotatably connected to a first end portion of an elongated bridge in such a way that it can rotate about a first axis of rotation perpendicular to the extension axis; a second pulley rotatably connected to a second end portion of the elongated bridge in such a way that it can rotate about a second axis of rotation perpendicular to the extension axis, the second axis of rotation being parallel to the first axis of rotation; a continuous annular belt wrapped around the first and second pulleys; a first elongated member disposed parallel to the extension axis, the first elongated member having a first end portion connected to a first handle portion and a second end portion connected to a first segment of the continuous annular belt; and a second elongated member disposed parallel to the extension axis, the second elongated member having a first end portion connected to a second handle portion and a second end portion connected to a second segment of the continuous annular belt, the first segment and the second segment of the continuous annular belt being located on opposite sides of the continuous annular belt across the extension axis. Attached Figure Description
[0006] In the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals generally refer to the same parts throughout the different views. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, but generally focus on illustrating the principles of the invention. In the following description, various embodiments are described with reference to the following drawings, wherein:
[0007] Figure 1A A rear view of an extendable controller in a retracted state, according to various embodiments, is shown;
[0008] Figure 1B The extended state is shown according to various embodiments. Figure 1A Rear view of the extendable controller;
[0009] Figure 2A The retracted state is shown according to various embodiments. Figure 1A A schematic diagram of an extendable controller, illustrating the extendable device;
[0010] Figure 2B The extended state is shown according to various embodiments. Figure 2AA schematic diagram of an extendable controller, illustrating the extendable device;
[0011] Figure 3A A perspective view of an extendable controller in a retracted state according to various embodiments is shown;
[0012] Figure 3B The extended state is shown according to various embodiments. Figure 3A A stereoscopic view of the extendable controller;
[0013] Figure 4A The retracted state is shown according to various embodiments. Figure 3A An extendable controller in which the housing is removed;
[0014] Figure 4B The extended state is shown according to various embodiments. Figure 3A An extendable controller in which the housing is removed;
[0015] Figure 5A The retracted state is shown according to various embodiments. Figure 3A A cross-sectional view of the second handle portion of the extendable controller; and
[0016] Figure 5B The extended state is shown according to various embodiments. Figure 3A A cross-sectional view of the second handle portion of the extendable controller. Detailed Implementation
[0017] The embodiments described below in the context of the apparatus are similarly effective for the corresponding methods, and vice versa. Furthermore, it will be understood that the embodiments described below can be combined; for example, a portion of one embodiment can be combined with a portion of another embodiment.
[0018] It should be understood that the terms “up,” “above,” “top,” “bottom,” “lower,” “side,” “back,” “left,” “right,” “front,” “lateral,” “upward,” “downward,” etc., used in the following description are for convenience and to aid in understanding relative position or direction, and are not intended to limit the orientation of any device or structure or any part of any device or structure. Furthermore, the singular terms “a,” “an,” and “described” include plural references unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Similarly, the word “or” is intended to include “and” unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.
[0019] Various embodiments relate to an extendable controller. In particular, various embodiments relate to a symmetrically extendable controller. According to various embodiments, the controller may be a game controller for a portable electronic device. According to various embodiments, the portable electronic device may include a smartphone, mobile phone, tablet computer, or any suitable handheld, lightweight electronic device. According to various embodiments, the extendable controller may be configured to extend or retract to receive or hold a portable electronic device therein, such that the portable electronic device can be removably attached, secured, or coupled to the extendable controller. According to various embodiments, the extendable controller may extend or retract symmetrically, such that the middle portion of the extendable controller can remain in the center, regardless of whether the extendable controller is in a retracted state, extending, or in an extended state. Thus, two opposite portions of the extendable controller on opposite sides of the middle portion of the extendable controller may extend (or retract) and retract relative to the middle portion in a synchronous (or simultaneous) and consistent (or symmetrical) manner, such that the middle portion remains in the center at all times.
[0020] The following examples illustrate various implementation methods.
[0021] Example 1 is a scalable controller that includes:
[0022] A first handle portion, the first handle portion having a first bridge portion extending from the first handle body portion;
[0023] The second handle portion has a second bridge portion extending from the second handle body portion;
[0024] A slender bridge, wherein a first half of the slender bridge is slidably engaged with a first bridge-connecting portion of a first handle portion along the longitudinal axis of the slender bridge, and a second half of the slender bridge is slidably engaged with a second bridge-connecting portion of a second handle portion along the longitudinal axis of the slender bridge; and
[0025] An extendable device interconnects the slender bridge, the first handle portion, and the second handle portion in such a way that the first handle portion and the second handle portion extend and retract synchronously in opposite directions relative to the slender bridge along the extension axis, wherein the extension axis is parallel to or coincides with the longitudinal axis of the slender bridge.
[0026] The extendable device includes:
[0027] A dual reciprocating opposing motion carrier system, located within a slender bridge, comprises:
[0028] The first reciprocating carrier is capable of moving relative to the slender bridge along a first carrier path and within the slender bridge.
[0029] The second reciprocating carrier, which can move relative to the slender bridge along the second carrier path and within the slender bridge, and
[0030] The opposing motion mechanism interconnects the first and second reciprocating carriers, and is configured to move the first and second reciprocating carriers in opposite directions relative to the extension axis of the extendable device.
[0031] The first elongated member has a first end portion connected to the first handle portion and a second end portion connected to the first reciprocating carrier of the dual reciprocating opposite motion carrier system, and
[0032] The second elongated member has a first end portion connected to the second handle portion and a second end portion connected to the second reciprocating carrier of the dual reciprocating opposite motion carrier system.
[0033] In Example 2, the subject of Example 1 may optionally include: the first carrier path and the second carrier path may be parallel to the extension axis and located on opposite sides of the extension axis.
[0034] In Example 3, the subject of Example 2 may optionally include: the first and second load paths may be of equal length and aligned with each other.
[0035] In Example 4, the subject matter of any one of Examples 1 to 3 may optionally include: the opposing motion mechanism may include:
[0036] A first pulley is rotatably connected to a first end portion of the slender bridge in such a manner that it can rotate about a first axis of rotation perpendicular to the extending axis.
[0037] A second pulley is rotatably connected to a second end portion of the elongated bridge in such a manner that it can rotate about a second axis of rotation perpendicular to the extension axis, the second axis of rotation being parallel to the first axis of rotation.
[0038] A continuous annular belt, which wraps around the first and second pulleys.
[0039] The first reciprocating carrier is located at the first segment of the continuous annular belt, and the second reciprocating carrier is located at the second segment of the continuous annular belt. The first segment and the second segment of the continuous annular belt are located on opposite sides of the transverse extension axis of the opposing motion mechanism.
[0040] In Example 5, the subject matter of Example 4 may optionally include: a first elongated member parallel to the extension axis, and a second elongated member parallel to the extension axis.
[0041] In Example 6, the subject of Example 5 may optionally include:
[0042] The first guide pin is located at the first end portion of the slender bridge, and
[0043] The second guide pin is located at the second end portion of the slender bridge.
[0044] The first elongated member may include an elongated groove extending longitudinally along its length, and a first guide pin may be fitted through the elongated groove of the first elongated member to guide longitudinal movement of the first elongated member.
[0045] The second elongated member may include an elongated groove extending longitudinally along the length of the second elongated member, and the second guide pin may be assembled through the elongated groove of the second elongated member to guide longitudinal movement of the second elongated member.
[0046] In Example 7, the subject matter of any one of Examples 4 to 6 may optionally include: the continuous annular belt may be a toothed belt, and each of the first pulley and the second pulley may be a toothed pulley.
[0047] In Example 8, the subject matter of any one of Examples 4 to 7 may optionally include: the continuous annular strip may be made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyurethane (PU) or styrene-ethylene-butene-styrene (SEBS).
[0048] In Example 9, the subject of any one of Examples 1 through 8 may optionally include:
[0049] The first reciprocating carrier may include an interlocking device, and the second end portion of the first elongated member may include a complementary interlocking device, wherein the interlocking device of the first reciprocating carrier and the complementary interlocking device of the first elongated member are interlocked with each other to connect the second end portion of the first elongated member to the first reciprocating carrier, and the second reciprocating carrier may include an interlocking device.
[0050] The second end portion of the second elongated member may include a complementary interlocking device, wherein the interlocking device of the second reciprocating carrier and the complementary interlocking device of the second elongated member are interlocked with each other to connect the second end portion of the second elongated member to the second segment of the continuous annular belt.
[0051] In Example 10, the subject matter of Example 9 may optionally include: the interlocking device of each first reciprocating member may be a protrusion, and the complementary interlocking device of the first elongated member may be a notch, and the interlocking device of the second reciprocating member may be a protrusion, and the complementary interlocking device of the second elongated member may be a notch.
[0052] In Example 11, the subject matter of any one of Examples 1 to 10 may optionally include: the extendable device may further include: a first biasing element connected between the first handle portion and a first end portion of the elongated bridge, the first biasing element being configured to bias to prevent the first handle portion from extending from the elongated bridge along an extension axis; and a second biasing element connected between the second handle portion and a second end portion of the elongated bridge, the second biasing element being configured to bias to prevent the second handle portion from extending from the elongated bridge along an extension axis.
[0053] In Example 12, the subject matter of Example 11 may optionally include: each of the first biasing element and the second biasing element may be a tension spring or an extension spring.
[0054] In Example 13, the subject matter of Example 11 or 12 may optionally include: a first biasing element and a first reciprocating carrier may be located on opposite sides of the opposing motion mechanism relative to the extension axis, and a second biasing element and a second reciprocating carrier may be located on opposite sides of the opposing motion mechanism relative to the extension axis.
[0055] In Example 14, the subject matter of any one of Examples 1 to 13 may optionally include: the first bridge connection portion may be a sleeve-like structure fitted onto the first half of the slender bridge, and the second bridge connection portion may be a sleeve-like structure fitted onto the second half of the slender bridge.
[0056] In Example 15, the subject matter of any of Examples 1 to 14 may optionally include a cable extending between the first handle portion and the second handle portion.
[0057] In Example 16, the subject matter of Example 15 may optionally include: the cable may extend along the first bridge portion, the slender bridge, and the second bridge portion.
[0058] In Example 17, the subject matter of Example 15 or 16 may optionally include: the cable may include a flexible flat cable, a flexible cable, a ribbon cable, a coaxial cable, or a conductor.
[0059] Example 18 is a scalable controller that includes:
[0060] A first handle portion, the first handle portion having a first bridge portion extending from the first handle body portion;
[0061] The second handle portion has a second bridge portion extending from the second handle body portion;
[0062] A slender bridge, wherein the first half of the slender bridge is slidably engaged with the first bridge connecting portion of the first handle portion along the longitudinal axis of the slender bridge, and the second half of the slender bridge is slidably engaged with the second bridge connecting portion of the second handle portion along the longitudinal axis of the slender bridge; and
[0063] An extendable device interconnects the slender bridge, the first handle portion, and the second handle portion in such a way that the first handle portion and the second handle portion extend and retract synchronously in opposite directions relative to the slender bridge along the extension axis, wherein the extension axis is parallel to or coincides with the longitudinal axis of the slender bridge.
[0064] The extendable device includes:
[0065] A first pulley is rotatably connected to a first end portion of the slender bridge in such a manner that it can rotate about a first axis of rotation perpendicular to the extending axis.
[0066] A second pulley is rotatably connected to the second end portion of the slender bridge in such a manner that it can rotate about a second axis of rotation perpendicular to the extending axis, the second axis of rotation being parallel to the first axis of rotation.
[0067] A continuous annular belt, which wraps around the first and second pulleys.
[0068] A first elongated member, disposed parallel to the extending axis, has a first end portion connected to a first handle portion and a second end portion connected to a first segment of a continuous annular belt, and
[0069] The second elongated member is arranged parallel to the extension axis and has a first end portion connected to the second handle portion and a second end portion connected to the second segment of the continuous annular belt. The first segment and the second segment of the continuous annular belt are located on opposite sides of the continuous annular belt across the extension axis.
[0070] In Example 19, the subject matter of Example 18 may optionally include: the extendable device may further include
[0071] A first biasing element is connected between the first handle portion and the first end portion of the elongated bridge. The first biasing element is configured to bias to prevent the first handle portion from extending from the elongated bridge along the extension axis.
[0072] A second biasing element is connected between the second handle portion and the second end portion of the elongated bridge. The second biasing element is configured to bias to prevent the second handle portion from extending from the elongated bridge along the extension axis.
[0073] In Example 20, the subject matter of Example 18 or 19 may optionally include: each of the first biasing element and the second biasing element may be a tension spring or an extension spring.
[0074] In Example 21, the subject of any one of Examples 18 through 20 may optionally include:
[0075] The first segment of the continuous annular belt may include an interlocking device, and the second end portion of the first elongated member may include a complementary interlocking device. The interlocking devices of the first segment of the continuous annular belt and the complementary interlocking devices of the first elongated member are interlocked with each other to connect the second end portion of the first elongated member to the first segment of the continuous annular belt.
[0076] The second segment of the continuous annular strip may include an interlocking device, and the second end portion of the second elongated member may include a complementary interlocking device, wherein the interlocking device of the second segment of the continuous annular strip and the complementary interlocking device of the second elongated member may interlock with each other to connect the second end portion of the second elongated member to the second segment of the continuous annular strip.
[0077] In Example 22, the subject of Example 21 may optionally include:
[0078] The interlocking device of the first segment of the continuous annular strip may include a protrusion, and the complementary interlocking device of the first elongated member may include a notch, and
[0079] The interlocking device of the second segment of the continuous annular strip may include a protrusion, and the complementary interlocking device of the second elongated member may include a notch.
[0080] In Example 23, the subject matter of any of Examples 18 to 22 may optionally include: the continuous annular belt may be a toothed belt, and each of the first pulley and the second pulley may be a toothed pulley.
[0081] In Example 24, the subject of any one of Examples 18 through 23 may optionally include:
[0082] The first guide pin is located at the first end portion of the slender bridge, and
[0083] The second guide pin is located at the second end portion of the slender bridge.
[0084] The first elongated member may include an elongated groove extending longitudinally along its length, and a first guide pin is fitted through the elongated groove to guide longitudinal movement of the first elongated member.
[0085] The second elongated member may include an elongated groove extending longitudinally along the length of the second elongated member, and a second guide pin is assembled through the elongated groove of the second elongated member to guide longitudinal movement of the second elongated member.
[0086] In Example 25, the subject matter of any one of Examples 18 to 24 may optionally include: the first bridge connection portion may be a sleeve-like structure fitted onto the first half of the slender bridge, and the second bridge connection portion may be a sleeve-like structure fitted onto the second half of the slender bridge.
[0087] In Example 26, the subject matter of any of Examples 18 to 25 may optionally include a cable extending between the first handle portion and the second handle portion.
[0088] In Example 27, the subject matter of Example 26 may optionally include: the cable may extend along the first bridge portion, the slender bridge, and the second bridge portion.
[0089] In Example 28, the subject matter of Example 26 or 27 may optionally include: the cable may include a flexible flat cable, a flexible cable, a ribbon cable, a coaxial cable, or a conductor.
[0090] Figure 1A A rear view of an extendable controller 100 in a retracted state, according to various embodiments, is shown. Figure 1B The extended state is shown according to various embodiments. Figure 1AThe image shows a rear view of the extendable controller 100. According to various embodiments, the extendable controller 100 may include a first handle portion 110 and a second handle portion 120. According to various embodiments, the extendable controller 100 may include an elongated bridge 130 disposed between the first handle portion 110 and the second handle portion 120. According to various embodiments, the elongated bridge 130 may be an elongated structure serving as an intermediary bridging (or combining) the first handle portion 110 and the second handle portion 120. The first handle portion 110 may slidably engage with a first half of the elongated bridge 130 to slide relative to the elongated bridge 130 along its longitudinal axis, and the second handle portion 120 may slidably engage with a second half of the elongated bridge 130 to slide relative to the elongated bridge 130 along its longitudinal axis. According to various embodiments, the first half of the elongated bridge 130 may be half the length of the elongated bridge, and the second half of the elongated bridge 130 may be the other half the length of the elongated bridge. According to various embodiments, the first handle portion 110 and the second handle portion 120 can slide relative to the elongated bridge 130 in a synchronous (or simultaneous) and consistent (or symmetrical) manner away from each other, such that the midpoint 139 of the elongated bridge 130 can be maintained in the middle of the extendable controller 100, regardless of whether the extendable controller 100 is in a retracted state, extending, or in an extended state. Similarly, when retracting from the extended state to the retracted state, the first handle portion 110 and the second handle portion 120 can slide relative to the elongated bridge 130 toward each other in a synchronous and consistent manner. Therefore, the first handle portion 110 and the second handle portion 120 can extend and retract relative to the elongated bridge 130 synchronously (or simultaneously) and consistently (or symmetrically) in opposite directions relative to the longitudinal axis 131 of the elongated bridge 130. Therefore, during the extension, the first handle portion 110 and the second handle portion 120 can move outward relative to each other in opposite directions relative to the elongated bridge 130, and during the retraction, the first handle portion 110 and the second handle portion 120 can move inward relative to each other in opposite directions relative to the elongated bridge 130.
[0091] According to various embodiments, the first handle portion 110 may include a first handle body portion 112 and a first bridging portion 114 extending from the first handle body portion 112. Therefore, the first bridging portion 114 may be similarly coupled to the first handle body portion 112 to form an accessory of the first handle portion 110. According to various embodiments, the second handle portion 120 may include a second handle body portion 122 and a second bridging portion 124 extending from the second handle body portion 122. Therefore, the second bridging portion 124 may be similarly connected to the second handle body portion 122 to form an accessory of the second handle portion 120.
[0092] According to various embodiments, the first bridging portion 114 of the first handle portion 110 can slidably engage with the first half of the elongated bridge 130, such that the first handle portion 110 can slide relative to the elongated bridge 130 along the longitudinal axis 131 of the elongated bridge 130. Therefore, in the retracted state, the first bridging portion 114 of the first handle portion 110 can overlap with the first half of the elongated bridge 130. Furthermore, in the extended state, the first bridging portion 114 of the first handle portion 110 can extend longitudinally from the first half of the elongated bridge 130 in such a way that the first handle body portion 112 moves outward and away from the elongated bridge 130. Therefore, the distance from the first handle body portion 112 to the midpoint 139 of the elongated bridge 130 increases from the retracted state to the extended state.
[0093] According to various embodiments, the second bridge portion 124 of the second handle portion 120 can slidably engage with the second half of the elongated bridge 130, such that the second handle portion 120 can slide relative to the elongated bridge 130 along the longitudinal axis 131 of the elongated bridge 130. Therefore, in the retracted state, the second bridge portion 124 of the second handle portion 120 can overlap with the second half of the elongated bridge 130. In the extended state, the second bridge portion 124 of the second handle portion 120 can extend longitudinally from the second half of the elongated bridge 130 in such a way that the second handle body portion 122 moves outward and away from the elongated bridge 130. Therefore, the distance from the second handle body portion 122 to the midpoint 139 of the elongated bridge 130 increases from the retracted state to the extended state.
[0094] According to various embodiments, when the first handle portion 110 and the second handle portion 120 extend synchronously (or simultaneously) from the elongated bridge 130 in opposite directions, the first connecting portion 114 of the first handle portion 110 and the second connecting portion 124 of the second handle portion 120 can slide longitudinally away from each other and outward relative to the elongated bridge 130 in a consistent (or symmetrical) manner to increase the distance between the first handle body portion 112 and the second handle body portion 122. According to various embodiments, when the first handle portion 110 and the second handle portion 120 retract synchronously (or simultaneously) in opposite directions relative to the elongated bridge 130, the first connecting portion 114 of the first handle portion 110 and the second connecting portion 124 of the second handle portion 120 can slide longitudinally inward relative to the elongated bridge 130 in a consistent (or symmetrical) manner toward each other to shorten the distance between the first handle body portion 112 and the second handle body portion 122.
[0095] Figure 2A A schematic diagram of an extendable controller 100 in a retracted state according to various embodiments is shown, wherein an extendable device 140 is illustrated. Figure 2BA schematic diagram of an extendable controller 100 in an extended state according to various embodiments is shown, wherein an extendable device 140 is illustrated.
[0096] According to various embodiments, the extendable controller 100 may include an extendable device 140. According to various embodiments, the extendable device 140 may interconnect the elongated bridge 130, the first handle portion 110, and the second handle portion 120. According to various embodiments, the extendable device 140 may provide or establish a relationship and / or association between the elongated bridge 130, the first handle portion 110, and the second handle portion 120 such that they (i.e., the elongated bridge 130, the first handle portion 110, and the second handle portion 120) can operate synchronously (or simultaneously) or work collaboratively to extend (or retract) and retract the extendable controller 100 in a consistent (or symmetrical) manner relative to the center of the extendable controller 100 (e.g., the midpoint 139 of the elongated bridge 130). Therefore, the extendable device 140 can manage the opposing movements of the elongated bridge 130, the first handle portion 110, and the second handle portion 120, and / or cause (or create or achieve) the desired movements of the first handle portion 110 and the second handle portion 120 extending and retracting in opposite directions relative to the elongated bridge 130 along the extension axis 141 of the extendable device 140. The extension axis 141 of the extendable device 140 may be parallel to or coincide with the longitudinal axis 131 of the elongated bridge 130. According to various embodiments, when the first handle portion 110 extends from the elongated bridge 130, the extendable device 140 can cause the second handle portion 120 to extend from the elongated bridge 130 in coordination with the first handle portion 110 to achieve synchronous (or simultaneous) and consistent (or symmetrical) extension. Similarly, when the second handle portion 120 extends from the elongated bridge 130, the extendable device allows the first handle portion 110 and the second handle portion 120 to extend from the elongated bridge 130 in a coordinated manner to achieve synchronous (or simultaneous) and consistent (or symmetrical) extension. According to various embodiments, the extendable device 140 may interconnect the elongated bridge 130, the first handle portion 110, and the second handle portion 120 in such a way that the first handle portion 110 and the second handle portion 120 extend and retract synchronously (or simultaneously) in opposite directions relative to the elongated bridge 130 along the extension axis 141 of the extendable device 140.
[0097] According to various embodiments, the extendable device 140 may include a dual reciprocating counter-motion carrier system 150. According to various embodiments, the dual reciprocating counter-motion carrier system 150 may be located within the elongated bridge 130. According to various embodiments, various components and / or elements of the dual reciprocating counter-motion carrier system 150 may be disposed or located within the elongated bridge 130. Therefore, the dual reciprocating counter-motion carrier system 150 may be confined or contained within the elongated bridge 130. Furthermore, according to various embodiments, the elongated bridge 130 may support, hold, carry, or sustain the dual reciprocating counter-motion carrier system 150 such that the dual reciprocating counter-motion carrier system 150 can operate or run within the elongated bridge 130.
[0098] According to various embodiments, the dual reciprocating counter-motion carrier system 150 may include a first reciprocating carrier 152 and a second reciprocating carrier 154. According to various embodiments, each of the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 may be capable of repeatedly moving forward and backward (or front-to-back) relative to the elongated bridge 130. According to various embodiments, the first reciprocating carrier 152 may move relative to the elongated bridge 130 along a first carrier path 153. Therefore, the first reciprocating carrier 152 may move along the first carrier path 153 in a reciprocating manner. According to various embodiments, the first reciprocating carrier 152 may move within the elongated bridge 130. Therefore, the first carrier path 153 may be within the boundaries of the elongated bridge 130, such that the first reciprocating carrier 152 can move within the boundaries of the elongated bridge 130. Therefore, the first carrier path 153 may not extend beyond the boundaries of the elongated bridge 130. According to various embodiments, the second reciprocating carrier 154 may move relative to the elongated bridge 130 along a second carrier path 155. Therefore, the second reciprocating carrier 154 can move in a reciprocating manner along the second carrier path 155. According to various embodiments, the second reciprocating carrier 154 may move within the elongated bridge 130. Therefore, the second carrier path 155 can be within the boundaries of the elongated bridge 130, allowing the second reciprocating carrier 154 to move within the boundaries of the elongated bridge 130. Therefore, the second carrier path 155 may not extend beyond the boundaries of the elongated bridge 130.
[0099] According to various embodiments, operating the dual reciprocating opposite motion carrier system 150 can always cause the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 to move synchronously (or simultaneously) relative to each other and relative to the elongated bridge 130 in opposite directions. For example, the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 can move synchronously (or simultaneously) toward each other, past each other, and away from each other. According to various embodiments, when the dual reciprocating opposite motion carrier system 150 is in operation, the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 can move synchronously (or simultaneously) relative to the extension axis 141 of the extendable device 140 in opposite directions (i.e., corresponding to two opposite directions along the extension axis 141). For example, when the first reciprocating carrier 152 moves from right to left relative to the extension axis 141 of the extendable device 140 and relative to the elongated bridge 130, the second reciprocating carrier 154 can move from left to right relative to the extension axis 141 of the extendable device 140 and relative to the elongated bridge 130, coordinating with the movement of the first reciprocating carrier 152. Similarly, when the first reciprocating carrier 152 moves from left to right relative to the extension axis 141 of the extendable device 140 and relative to the elongated bridge 130, the second reciprocating carrier 154 can move from right to left relative to the extension axis 141 of the extendable device 140 and relative to the elongated bridge 130, coordinating with the movement of the first reciprocating carrier 152. Therefore, the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 can move synchronously (or simultaneously) relative to the elongated bridge 130 in an alternating and opposite manner.
[0100] According to various embodiments, the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 may move synchronously (or simultaneously) and uniformly (or symmetrically) relative to each other and relative to the elongated bridge 130 with equal and opposite or completely opposite movements. Therefore, the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 may move relative to the elongated bridge 130 at the same rate or speed, such that they move at the same speed relative to each other in opposite directions.
[0101] According to various embodiments, the dual reciprocating counter-motion carrier system 150 may include a counter-motion mechanism 160. According to various embodiments, the counter-motion mechanism 160 may interconnect a first reciprocating carrier 152 and a second reciprocating carrier 154. According to various embodiments, the counter-motion mechanism 160 may provide or establish a relationship and / or association between the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154, such that the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 can operate synchronously (or simultaneously) with each other or work collaboratively to move relative to each other in opposite directions and / or relative to the extension axis 141 of the extendable device 140. Therefore, the counter-motion mechanism 160 may manage the movement of the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 relative to the elongated bridge 130, and / or cause (or create or realize) the movement required for the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 to move synchronously (or simultaneously) in opposite directions relative to each other and / or relative to the extension axis 141 of the extendable device 140. According to various embodiments, the opposing motion mechanism 160 may be configured to move the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 in opposite directions relative to each other and / or relative to the extension axis 141 of the extendable device 140. According to various embodiments, the opposing motion mechanism 160 may directly engage, interact with, contact or connect with each of the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154.
[0102] According to various embodiments, the opposing motion mechanism 160 may include an opposing motion linkage mechanism, a scissor mechanism, a lever mechanism, a single fixed pulley mechanism, a belt and pulley mechanism, a double slider crank mechanism, or any suitable mechanism configured to move the first reciprocating member 152 and the second reciprocating member 154 synchronously (or simultaneously) in opposite directions relative to each other and / or relative to the extension axis 141 of the extendable device 140.
[0103] According to various embodiments, the extendable device 140 may include a first elongated member 170. According to various embodiments, a first end portion 172 of the first elongated member 170 may be coupled to a first handle portion 110, and a second end portion 174 of the first elongated member 170 may be coupled to a first reciprocating carrier 152 of the dual reciprocating opposing motion carrier system 150. Therefore, when the first elongated member 170, the first handle portion 110, and the first reciprocating carrier 152 are coupled together as a single integral structure, the first handle portion 110 and the first reciprocating carrier 152 may move together as a single unit or as a complete unit. Thus, moving the first handle portion 110 to extend or retract relative to the elongated bridge 130 allows the first reciprocating carrier 152 to move relative to the elongated bridge 130 in a corresponding direction. Similarly, when the first reciprocating carrier 152 moves relative to the elongated bridge 130 in a corresponding direction, the first handle portion 110 may extend or retract relative to the elongated bridge 130.
[0104] According to various embodiments, the extendable device 140 may include a second elongated member 180. According to various embodiments, a first end portion 182 of the second elongated member 180 may be coupled to a second handle portion 120, and a second end portion 184 of the second elongated member 180 may be coupled to a second reciprocating carrier 154 of the dual reciprocating counter-movement carrier system 150. Therefore, when the second elongated member 180, the second handle portion 120, and the second reciprocating carrier 154 are coupled together as a single integral structure, the second handle portion 120 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 may move together as a single unit or as a complete unit. Thus, moving the second handle portion 120 to extend or retract relative to the elongated bridge 130 allows the second reciprocating carrier 154 to move relative to the elongated bridge 130 in a corresponding direction. Similarly, when the second reciprocating carrier 152 moves relative to the elongated bridge 130 in a corresponding direction, the second handle portion 120 may extend or retract relative to the elongated bridge 130.
[0105] According to various embodiments, when the opposing motion mechanism 160 operates in a first operating mode (or forward operating mode), the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 can operate in a first motion cycle (or forward motion cycle) respectively, to move synchronously (or simultaneously) in opposite directions relative to each other and / or relative to the extension axis 141 of the extendable device 140. Therefore, the first reciprocating carrier 152 can move relative to the elongated bridge 130 in the first motion cycle (e.g., a forward cycle of the reciprocating motion of the first reciprocating carrier 152). Similarly, the second reciprocating carrier 154 can move relative to the elongated bridge 130 in the first motion cycle (e.g., a forward cycle of the reciprocating motion of the second reciprocating carrier 154). The first motion cycles of the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 can be opposite to each other relative to the elongated bridge 130. According to various embodiments, the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 can move synchronously (or simultaneously) in the first motion cycle, and the first handle portion 110 and the second handle portion 120 can move synchronously (or simultaneously) in opposite directions relative to the elongated bridge 130 to extend the first handle portion 110 and the second handle portion 120 synchronously (or simultaneously) from the elongated bridge 130. According to various embodiments, the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 can operate uniformly (or symmetrically) in the first motion cycle (or forward motion cycle), respectively. Therefore, the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 can move the first handle portion 110 and the second handle portion 120 synchronously (or simultaneously) and uniformly (or symmetrically) in opposite directions relative to the elongated bridge 130 to extend the first handle portion 110 and the second handle portion 120 from the elongated bridge 130 in a synchronous (or simultaneous) and uniform (or symmetrical) manner.
[0106] For example, when the extendable controller 100 is in the retracted state (see...) Figure 2A The first reciprocating carrier 152 may be located within the second half of the elongated bridge 130, and the first bridge portion 114 of the first handle portion 110 may overlap with the first half of the elongated bridge 130. The second reciprocating carrier 154 may be located within the first half of the elongated bridge 130, and the second bridge portion 124 of the second handle portion 120 may overlap with the second half of the elongated bridge 130. During the extension of the extendable controller 100, the first reciprocating carrier 152 allows the first elongated member 170 to move from the second half of the elongated bridge 130 to the first half of the elongated bridge 130 such that the first handle portion 110 can be moved longitudinally outward from the first half of the elongated bridge 130 along the extension axis 141. Similarly, during the extension of the extendable controller 100, the second reciprocating carrier 154 allows the second elongated member 180 to move from the first half of the elongated bridge 130 to the second half of the elongated bridge 130 in such a way that the second handle portion 120 is moved longitudinally outward along the extension axis 141. Therefore, the direction of movement of the first reciprocating carrier 152 from the second half of the elongated bridge 130 to the first half of the elongated bridge 130 can be opposite to the direction of movement of the second reciprocating carrier 154 from the first half of the elongated bridge 130 to the second half of the elongated bridge 130.
[0107] According to various embodiments, when the opposing motion mechanism 160 operates in a second operating mode (or reverse operating mode), the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 can operate in a second motion cycle (or reverse motion cycle) respectively, to move synchronously (or simultaneously) in opposite directions relative to each other and / or relative to the extension axis 141 of the extendable device 140. Therefore, the first reciprocating carrier 152 can move relative to the elongated bridge 130 in a second motion cycle (e.g., the reverse cycle of the reciprocating motion of the first reciprocating carrier 152). Similarly, the second reciprocating carrier 154 can move relative to the elongated bridge 130 in a second motion cycle (e.g., the reverse cycle of the reciprocating motion of the second reciprocating carrier 154). The second motion cycles of the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second motion cycles of the second reciprocating carrier 154 can be opposite to each other relative to the elongated bridge 130. According to various embodiments, in the second motion cycle, the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 can move synchronously (or simultaneously) relative to the elongated bridge 130 in opposite directions, moving the first handle portion 110 and the second handle portion 120 synchronously (or simultaneously) to retract the first handle portion 110 and the second handle portion 120 relative to the elongated bridge 130. According to various embodiments, the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 can operate uniformly (or symmetrically) in the second motion cycle (or reverse motion cycle), respectively. Therefore, the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 can move the first handle portion 110 and the second handle portion 120 synchronously (or simultaneously) and uniformly (or symmetrically) relative to the elongated bridge 130 in opposite directions, retracting the first handle portion 110 and the second handle portion 120 relative to the elongated bridge 130 in a synchronous (or simultaneous) and uniformly (or symmetrical) manner.
[0108] For example, when the extendable controller 100 is in the extended state (see...) Figure 2BThe first reciprocating carrier 152 may be located within the first half of the elongated bridge 130 and the first handle portion 110 may extend outward from the first half of the elongated bridge 130, and the second reciprocating carrier 154 may be located within the second half of the elongated bridge 130 and the second handle portion 120 may extend outward from the second half of the elongated bridge 130. During the retraction of the extendable controller 100, the first reciprocating carrier 152 may cause the first elongated member 170 to move longitudinally inward along the extension axis 141 toward the first half of the elongated bridge 130, thereby allowing the first bridging portion 114 of the first handle portion 110 to move from the first half of the elongated bridge 130 to the second half of the elongated bridge 130 in a manner that overlaps with the first half of the elongated bridge 130. Similarly, during the retraction of the extendable controller 100, the second reciprocating carrier 154 allows the second elongated member 180 to move longitudinally inward along the extension axis 141 toward the second half of the elongated bridge 130, thereby moving the second handle portion 120 from the second half of the elongated bridge 130 to the first half of the elongated bridge 130 in a manner that overlaps with the second half of the elongated bridge 130. Therefore, the direction of movement of the first reciprocating carrier 152 from the first half of the elongated bridge 130 to the second half of the elongated bridge 130 can be opposite to the direction of movement of the second reciprocating carrier 154 from the second half of the elongated bridge 130 to the first half of the elongated bridge 130.
[0109] refer to Figure 2A and Figure 2B According to various embodiments, each of the first carrier path 153 and the second carrier path 155 may be straight. According to various other embodiments (not shown), each of the first carrier path 153 and the second carrier path 155 may be curved, wavy, zigzag, or any other suitable path, as long as the path extends generally in the direction of the extension axis 141 of the extendable device 140. Reference Figure 2A and Figure 2B According to various embodiments, each of the first carrier path 153 and the second carrier path 155 may be parallel to the extension axis 141. According to various embodiments (not shown), each of the first carrier path 153 and the second carrier path 155 may not be parallel to the extension axis 141, as long as the path extends generally in the direction of the extension axis 141 of the extendable device 140, for example, it may converge, diverge, or deviate relative to the extension axis 141 of the extendable device 140. According to various embodiments, each of the first carrier path 153 and the second carrier path 155 may have a profile and be oriented such that the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 can move in opposite directions relative to the extension axis 141 of the extendable device 140 (i.e., corresponding to two opposite directions along the extension axis 141).
[0110] refer to Figure 2A and Figure 2B According to various embodiments, the first carrier path 153 and the second carrier path 155 may be on opposite sides of the extension axis 141 of the extendable device 140 (i.e., across both opposite sides of the extension axis 141). According to various embodiments, the extension axis 141 of the extendable device 140 may be along a centerline passing through the extendable device 140 in the extension and retraction directions. Therefore, the first carrier path 153 may be along a region of the extendable device 140 on one side of the extension axis 141 (e.g., above the extension axis 141), and the second carrier path 155 may be along another region of the extendable device 140 on the other side of the extension axis 141 (e.g., below the extension axis 141). Therefore, the extension axis 141 of the extendable device 140 may extend through the extendable device 140 in a manner that the first carrier path 153 and the second carrier path 155 are separated on both opposite sides of the extension axis 141.
[0111] refer to Figure 2A and Figure 2B According to various embodiments, the first carrier path 153 and the second carrier path 155 may be of equal length and aligned with each other. According to various embodiments, when the first carrier path 153 and the second carrier path 155 are of equal length, the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 may move to the same displacement. According to various embodiments, the first carrier path 153 and the second carrier path 155 may be aligned such that the starting point of the first carrier path 153 and the ending point of the second carrier path 155 are opposite each other across the extension axis 141, and the ending point of the first carrier path 153 and the starting point of the second carrier path 155 are opposite each other across the extension axis 141.
[0112] Figure 3A A perspective view of an extendable controller 300 in a retracted state according to various embodiments is shown. Figure 3B A perspective view of an extendable controller 300 in an extended state according to various embodiments is shown. Figure 4A An extendable controller 300 in a retracted state, according to various embodiments, is shown, with the housing removed. Figure 4B An extendable controller 300 in an extended state according to various embodiments is shown, wherein the housing has been removed.
[0113] According to various embodiments, Figures 3A to 4B The extendable controller 300 includes Figures 1A to 2B All features of the extendable controller 100. Therefore, suitable for Figures 1A to 2B All features, changes, modifications, and variations of the extendable controller 100 are also applicable. Figures 3A to 4B An extendable controller 300. According to various embodiments, Figures 3A to 4BThe extendable controller 300 may include a first handle portion 110, a second handle portion 120, an elongated bridge 130, and an extendable device 140 (including a dual reciprocating opposing motion carrier system 150, an opposing motion mechanism 160, a first elongated member 170, and a second elongated member 180), as previously mentioned. Figures 1A to 2B The extendable controller 100 is described.
[0114] According to various embodiments, Figures 3A to 4B The counter-motion mechanism 160 of the extendable controller 300 can be of the type of belt and pulley mechanism. (See reference) Figures 3A to 4B According to various embodiments, the counter-motion mechanism 160 of the extendable controller 300 may include a first pulley 362. According to various embodiments, the first pulley 362 may be rotatably coupled to a first end portion 132 of the elongated bridge 130 (or the outer portion of the first half of the elongated bridge 130 away from the midpoint 139 of the elongated bridge 130) so as to be rotatable about a first axis of rotation perpendicular to the extension axis 141 of the extendable device 140. According to various embodiments, the first axis of rotation may extend through the center of the first pulley 362, such that the first pulley 362 is rotatable about its own center. According to various embodiments, the counter-motion mechanism 160 of the extendable controller 300 may include a second pulley 364. According to various embodiments, the second pulley 364 may be rotatably coupled to a second end portion 134 of the elongated bridge 130 (or the outer portion of the second half of the elongated bridge 130 away from the midpoint 139 of the elongated bridge 130) so as to be rotatable about a second axis of rotation perpendicular to the extension axis 141 of the extendable device 140. According to various embodiments, the second axis of rotation may extend through the center of the second pulley 364, allowing the second pulley 364 to rotate about its own center. According to various embodiments, the second axis of rotation of the second pulley 364 and the first axis of rotation of the first pulley 362 may be parallel to each other.
[0115] According to various embodiments, the counter-motion mechanism 160 of the extendable controller 300 may include a continuous annular belt 366 surrounding a first pulley 362 and a second pulley 364. Thus, the continuous annular belt 366, the first pulley 362, and the second pulley 364 may form a belt and pulley mechanism serving as the counter-motion mechanism 160. According to various embodiments, the belt and pulley mechanism formed by the continuous annular belt 366, the first pulley 362, and the second pulley 364 may be a conveyor belt mechanism. According to various embodiments, the continuous annular belt 366 may form a closed loop around the first pulley 362 and the second pulley 364, such that the continuous annular belt 366 can rotate around the first pulley 362 and the second pulley 364 for moving the continuous annular belt 366. According to various embodiments, the continuous annular belt 366 may rotate around the first pulley 362 and the second pulley 364 in a first direction (e.g., clockwise) and a second direction (e.g., counterclockwise), wherein the second direction is opposite to the first direction.
[0116] According to various embodiments, the first reciprocating carrier 152 may be located at the first segment 366a of the continuous annular belt 366, and the second reciprocating carrier 154 may be located at the second segment 366b of the continuous annular belt 366. The first segment 366a and the second segment 366b of the continuous annular belt 366 may be located on opposite sides of the transverse extension axis 141 of the opposing motion mechanism 160. Therefore, the first segment 366a and the second segment 366b of the continuous annular belt 366 may be located on opposite sides of the extension axis 141, such that the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 may be located on corresponding sides of the extension axis 141. Therefore, the first segment 366a of the continuous annular belt 366, together with the first reciprocating carrier 152, can travel along the region of the extendable device 140 on one side of the extension axis 141 (e.g., above the extension axis 141), and the second segment 366b of the continuous annular belt 366, together with the second reciprocating carrier 154, can travel along another region of the extendable device 140 on the other side of the extension axis 141 (e.g., below the extension axis 141).
[0117] According to various embodiments, when the first reciprocating carrier 152 is located at a first segment 366a of the continuous annular belt 366 on one side of the extending axis 141 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 is located at a second segment 366b of the continuous annular belt 366 on the opposite side of the extending axis 141, rotating the continuous annular belt 366 about the first pulley 362 and the second pulley 364 can move the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 relative to each other with respect to the extending axis 141 (i.e., corresponding to two opposite directions along the extending axis 141). Therefore, rotating the continuous annular belt 366 about the first pulley 362 and the second pulley 364 can move the first reciprocating carrier 152 relative to the extending axis 141 in a first direction (e.g., from left to right) and can move the second reciprocating carrier 154 relative to the extending axis 141 in a second direction (e.g., from right to left). The first direction and the second direction can be directions opposite to each other. For example, according to various embodiments, the first direction and the second direction may be parallel to opposite directions along the extension axis 141, respectively.
[0118] According to various embodiments, when the extendable controller 300 is in the retracted state, the first reciprocating carrier 152 at the first segment 366a of the continuous annular belt 366 can approach the second pulley 364 (or the second end portion 134 of the elongated bridge 130), and the first bridging portion 114 of the first handle portion 110 can overlap with the first half of the elongated bridge 130 (or the first end portion 132 of the elongated bridge 130), and the second reciprocating carrier 154 at the second segment 366b of the continuous annular belt 366 can approach the first pulley 362 (or the first end portion 132 of the elongated bridge 130), and the second bridging portion 124 of the second handle portion 120 can overlap with the second half of the elongated bridge 130 (or the second end portion 134 of the elongated bridge 130). Therefore, during the extension of the extendable controller 300, rotating the continuous annular belt 366 about the first pulley 362 and the second pulley 364 in a first direction (e.g., clockwise) allows the first elongated member 170 to move the first reciprocating carrier 152 from the second pulley 364 (or the second end portion 134 of the elongated bridge 130) toward the first pulley 362 (or the first end portion 132 of the elongated bridge 130) in such a way that the first handle portion 110 is moved longitudinally outward along the extension axis 141 from the first half of the elongated bridge 130 (or the first end portion 132 of the elongated bridge 130). Therefore, during the extension of the extendable controller 300, rotating the continuous annular belt 366 about the first pulley 362 and the second pulley 364 in a first direction (e.g., clockwise) allows the second elongated member 180 to move the second handle portion 120 longitudinally outward from the second half of the elongated bridge 130 (or the second end portion 134 of the elongated bridge 130) along the extension axis 141, thereby synchronously (or simultaneously) moving the second reciprocating carrier 154 from the first pulley 362 (or the first end portion 132 of the elongated bridge 130) toward the second pulley 364 (or the second end portion 134 of the elongated bridge 130). Therefore, the direction of movement of the first reciprocating carrier 152 from the second pulley 364 (or the second end portion 134 of the slender bridge 130) toward the first pulley 362 (or the first end portion 132 of the slender bridge 130) can be opposite to the direction of movement of the second reciprocating carrier 154 from the first pulley 362 (or the first end portion 132 of the slender bridge 130) toward the second pulley 364 (or the second end portion 134 of the slender bridge 130).
[0119] According to various embodiments, when the extendable controller 300 is in the extended state, the first reciprocating carrier 152 at the first segment 366a of the continuous annular belt 366 can approach the first pulley 362 (or the first end portion 132 of the elongated bridge 130), and the first handle portion 110 can extend outward from the first half of the elongated bridge 130 (or the first end portion 132 of the first elongated bridge 130), and the second reciprocating carrier 154 at the second segment 366b of the continuous annular belt 366 can approach the second pulley 364 (or the second end portion 134 of the elongated bridge 130), and the second handle portion 120 can extend outward from the second half of the elongated bridge 130 (or the second end portion 134 of the elongated bridge 130). Therefore, during the retraction of the extendable controller 300, the continuous annular belt 366 rotates in a second direction (e.g., counterclockwise) about the first pulley 362 and the second pulley 364, such that the first elongated member 170 can move the first handle portion 110 longitudinally inward to move the first reciprocating carrier 152 from the first pulley 362 (or the first end portion 132 of the elongated bridge 130) toward the second pulley 364 (or the second end portion 134 of the elongated bridge 130) in such a way that it overlaps with the first half (or the first end portion 132 of the elongated bridge 130) along the extension axis 141. Similarly, during the retraction of the extendable controller 300, the continuous annular belt 366 rotates in a second direction (e.g., counterclockwise) about the first pulley 362 and the second pulley 364, such that the second elongated member 180 can move the second handle portion 120 longitudinally inward to synchronously (or simultaneously) move the second reciprocating carrier 154 from the second pulley 364 (or the second end portion 134 of the elongated bridge 130) toward the first pulley 362 (or the first end portion 132 of the elongated bridge 130) in such a way that it overlaps with the second half (or the second end portion 134 of the elongated bridge 130) along the extension axis 141. Therefore, the direction of movement of the first reciprocating carrier 152 from the first pulley 362 (or the first end portion 132 of the slender bridge 130) toward the second pulley 364 (or the second end portion 134 of the slender bridge 130) may be opposite to the direction of movement of the second reciprocating carrier 154 from the second pulley 364 (or the second end portion 134 of the slender bridge 130) toward the first pulley 362 (or the first end portion 132 of the slender bridge 130).
[0120] According to various embodiments, since the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 are on the same continuous annular belt 366, rotating the continuous annular belt 366 around the first pulley 362 and the second pulley 364 can move the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 synchronously (or simultaneously) and uniformly (or symmetrically).
[0121] According to various embodiments, the continuous annular belt 366 may include a toothed belt, a flat belt, a round belt, a V-belt, a grooved belt, a multi-ribbed belt, or a chain. According to various embodiments, the continuous annular belt 366 may be made of any suitable material, including but not limited to thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyurethane (PU), or styrene-ethylene-butene-styrene (SEBS). According to various embodiments, each of the first pulley 362 and the second pulley 364 may include a corresponding toothed pulley, flat belt pulley, grooved pulley, V-groove pulley, or multi-groove pulley.
[0122] According to various embodiments, the first reciprocating carrier 152 may be an integral portion of the continuous annular belt 366 at the first segment 366a of the continuous annular belt 366. Similarly, according to various embodiments, the second reciprocating carrier 154 may be an integral portion of the continuous annular belt 366 at the second segment 366b of the continuous annular belt 366. According to various embodiments, the first reciprocating carrier 152, the second reciprocating carrier 154, and the continuous annular belt 366 may be integrally formed or molded into a single article. According to various embodiments, the first reciprocating carrier 152, the second reciprocating carrier 154, and the continuous annular belt 366 may be made of the same material. According to various embodiments, the first reciprocating carrier 152, the second reciprocating carrier 154, and the continuous annular belt 366 may be integrally connected or joined together to form a single integrated unit. According to various embodiments, the first reciprocating carrier 152, the second reciprocating carrier 154, and the continuous annular belt 366 may be made of the same material or different materials.
[0123] According to various embodiments, the first reciprocating carrier 152 can be connected (or directly connected) to the second end portion 172 of the first elongated member 170 by various suitable connection methods, including but not limited to fastening, interlocking, or adhesive methods. Similarly, according to various embodiments, the second reciprocating carrier 154 can be connected (or directly connected) to the second end portion 182 of the second elongated member 180 by various suitable connection methods, including but not limited to fastening, interlocking, or adhesive methods.
[0124] For example, refer to Figures 3A to 4BAccording to various embodiments, the first reciprocating carrier 152 may include an interlocking device 152a, and the second end portion 172 of the first elongated member 170 may include a complementary interlocking device 172a. According to various embodiments, the interlocking device 152a of the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the complementary interlocking device 172a of the first elongated member 170 may interlock with each other to connect (or directly connect) the second end portion 172 of the first elongated member 170 to the first reciprocating carrier 152. Similarly, according to various embodiments, the second reciprocating carrier 154 may include an interlocking device 154a, and the second end portion 182 of the second elongated member 180 may include a complementary interlocking device 182a. According to various embodiments, the interlocking device 154a of the second reciprocating carrier 154 and the complementary interlocking device 182a of the second elongated member 180 may interlock with each other to connect (or directly connect) the second end portion 182 of the second elongated member 180 to the second reciprocating carrier 154.
[0125] According to various embodiments, the interlocking device 152a of the first reciprocating carrier 152 may be an integral part of the first reciprocating carrier 152. Similarly, the interlocking device 154a of the second reciprocating carrier 154 may be an integral part of the second reciprocating carrier 152. According to various embodiments, the interlocking device 152a of the first reciprocating carrier 152 may be integrally formed, molded, connected, or attached to the first reciprocating carrier 152. Similarly, according to various embodiments, the interlocking device 154a of the second reciprocating carrier 154 may be integrally formed, molded, connected, or attached to the second reciprocating carrier 154. According to various embodiments, the first reciprocating carrier 152 may be configured such that the entire first reciprocating carrier 152 may be the interlocking device 152a of the first reciprocating carrier 152. Similarly, according to various embodiments, the second reciprocating carrier 154 may be configured such that the entire second reciprocating carrier 154 may be an interlocking device 154a for the second reciprocating carrier 154.
[0126] According to various embodiments, the complementary interlocking device 172a of the second end portion 172 of the first elongated member 170 may be an integral part of the first elongated member 170. Similarly, according to various embodiments, the complementary interlocking device 182a of the second end portion 182 of the second elongated member 180 may be an integral part of the second elongated member 180. According to various embodiments, the complementary interlocking device 172a of the second end portion 172 of the first elongated member 170 may be integrally formed, molded, connected, or attached to the first elongated member 170. Similarly, according to various embodiments, the complementary interlocking device 182a of the second end portion 182 of the second elongated member 180 may be integrally formed, molded, connected, or attached to the second elongated member 180.
[0127] According to various embodiments, the interlocking device 152a of the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the complementary interlocking device 172a of the second end portion 172 of the first elongated member 170 can be configured to interlock such that the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second end portion 172 of the first elongated member 170 are immovable relative to each other. Therefore, the interlocking device 152a of the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the complementary interlocking device 172a of the second end portion 172 of the first elongated member 170 can be assembled together to ensure coordinated movement of the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the first elongated member 170 as a whole. Similarly, the interlocking device 154a of the second reciprocating carrier 154 and the complementary interlocking device 182a of the second end portion 182 of the second elongated member 180 can be configured to interlock such that the second reciprocating carrier 154 and the second end portion 182 of the second elongated member 180 are immovable relative to each other. Therefore, the interlocking device 154a of the second reciprocating carrier 154 and the complementary interlocking device 182a of the second end portion 182 of the second elongated member 180 can be assembled together to ensure coordinated movement of the second reciprocating carrier 154 and the second elongated member 180 as a whole.
[0128] For example, according to various embodiments, the interlocking device 152a of the first reciprocating carrier 152 may be a protrusion, and the complementary interlocking device 172a of the first elongated member 170 may be a recess, and vice versa. Therefore, the interlocking device 152a of the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the complementary interlocking device 172a of the first elongated member 170 may form a tongue-and-groove connection or a mortise-and-tenon connection. Similarly, according to various embodiments, the interlocking device 154a of the second reciprocating carrier 154 may be a protrusion, and the complementary interlocking device 182a of the second elongated member 180 may be a recess, and vice versa. Therefore, the interlocking device 154a of the second reciprocating carrier 154 and the complementary interlocking device 182a of the second elongated member 180 may form a tongue-and-groove connection or a mortise-and-tenon connection.
[0129] According to various embodiments, the extendable device 140 of the extendable controller 300 may further include a first bias element 392 and a second bias element 294.
[0130] According to various embodiments, a first biasing element 392 may be connected between the first handle portion 110 and the first end portion 132 of the elongated bridge 130. According to various embodiments, the first biasing element 392 may be configured to bias to prevent the first handle portion 110 from extending from the elongated bridge 130 along the extension axis 141. Therefore, when the first handle portion 110 is being extended from the elongated bridge 130, the first biasing element 392 may apply a biasing force to prevent (or resist) the force that pulls the first handle portion 110 away from the first end portion 132 of the elongated bridge 130. Therefore, when the first handle portion 110 is being extended from the first end portion 132 of the elongated bridge 130, the biasing force may accumulate in the first biasing element 392. According to various embodiments, when the force pulling the first handle portion 110 away from the first end portion 132 of the elongated bridge 130 is released, the biasing force accumulated in the first biasing element 392 can then retract the first handle portion 110 relative to the elongated bridge 130, so as to return the first handle portion 110 to a retracted state. Therefore, when the first handle portion 110 is extending or has been extended, the first biasing element 392 can provide a tendency or driving force to return the first handle portion 110 to the retracted state.
[0131] Similarly, according to various embodiments, a second biasing element 394 may be connected between the second handle portion 120 and the second end portion 134 of the elongated bridge 130. According to various embodiments, the second biasing element 394 may be configured to bias to prevent the second handle portion 120 from extending from the elongated bridge 130 along the extension axis 141. Therefore, when extending the second handle portion 120 from the elongated bridge 130, the second biasing element 394 may apply a biasing force to prevent (or resist) the force pulling the second handle portion 120 away from the second end portion 134 of the elongated bridge 130. Therefore, when extending the second handle portion 120 from the second end portion 134 of the elongated bridge 130, a biasing force may accumulate in the second biasing element 394. According to various embodiments, when the force pulling the second handle portion 120 away from the second end portion 134 of the elongated bridge 130 is released, the biasing force accumulated in the second biasing element 394 can then retract the second handle portion 120 relative to the elongated bridge 130, so that the second handle portion 120 returns to the retracted state. Therefore, when the second handle portion 120 is extending or has been extended, the second biasing element 394 can provide a tendency or driving force to return the second handle portion 120 to the retracted state.
[0132] According to various embodiments, each of the first biasing element 392 and the second biasing element 394 may include, but is not limited to, a tension spring or an extension spring. According to various embodiments, for example, when the first biasing element 392 is a tension spring or an extension spring, a first end of the first biasing element 392 may be connected to the first handle portion 110, and a second end of the first biasing element 392 may be connected to the first end portion 132 of the elongated bridge 130. Similarly, according to various embodiments, for example, when the second biasing element 394 is a tension spring or an extension spring, a first end of the second biasing element 394 may be connected to the second handle portion 120, and a second end of the second biasing element 394 may be connected to the second end portion 134 of the elongated bridge 130.
[0133] According to various embodiments, the first biasing element 392 and the first reciprocating carrier 152 may be on opposite sides of the opposing motion mechanism 160 relative to the extension axis 141 (i.e., across the two opposite sides of the extension axis 141). Therefore, the first biasing element 392 and the first reciprocating carrier 152 may be arranged such that the first biasing element 392 may be coupled to the first end portion 132 of the elongated bridge 130 on the side of the opposing motion mechanism 160 opposite to and away from the first reciprocating carrier 152 relative to the extension axis 141 (i.e., across the extension axis 141). For example, when the first reciprocating carrier 152 is on one side of the opposing motion mechanism 160 above the extension axis 141, the first biasing element 392 may be coupled to the first end portion 132 of the elongated bridge 130 on the side of the opposing motion mechanism 160 below the extension axis 141.
[0134] Similarly, according to various embodiments, the second biasing element 394 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 may be on opposite sides of the opposing motion mechanism 160 (i.e., across the two opposite sides of the extending axis 141) relative to the extending axis 141. Therefore, the second biasing element 394 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 may be arranged such that the second biasing element 394 may be coupled to the second end portion 134 of the elongated bridge 130 on the side of the opposing motion mechanism 160 opposite to and away from the extending axis 141 (i.e., across the extending axis). For example, when the second reciprocating carrier 154 is on one side of the opposing motion mechanism 160 below the extending axis 141, the second biasing element 394 may be coupled to the second end portion 134 of the elongated bridge 130 on the side of the opposing motion mechanism 160 above the extending axis 141.
[0135] According to various embodiments, the first elongated member 170 may be parallel to the extension axis 141, and the second elongated member 180 may be parallel to the extension axis 141. Therefore, the first elongated member 170 and the second elongated member 180 may be parallel to each other. Thus, the first elongated member 170 and the second elongated member 180 may move relative to each other in a parallel manner (i.e., corresponding to two opposite directions along the extension axis 141). According to various embodiments, since the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154 are on opposite sides of the opposing motion mechanism 160, and the first elongated member 170 and the second elongated member 180 are respectively coupled to the first reciprocating carrier 152 and the second reciprocating carrier 154, the first elongated member 170 and the second elongated member 180 may correspondingly be located on two opposite sides of the opposing motion mechanism 160 (i.e., across two opposite sides of the extension axis 141) relative to the extension axis 141.
[0136] According to various embodiments, the extendable controller 300 may include a first guide pin 376 and a second guide pin 386. According to various embodiments, the first guide pin 376 may be disposed at a first end portion 132 of the elongated bridge 130. According to various embodiments, the first guide pin 376 may be fixed relative to the elongated bridge 130. For example, the first guide pin 376 may be fixed to the elongated bridge 130, or the body of the elongated bridge 130, or the housing of the elongated bridge 130. According to various embodiments, the first guide pin 376 may be perpendicular to the first elongated member 170. According to various embodiments, a second guide pin 286 may be disposed at a second end portion 134 of the elongated bridge 130. According to various embodiments, the second guide pin 386 may be fixed relative to the elongated bridge 130. For example, the second guide pin 386 may be fixed to the elongated bridge 130, or the body of the elongated bridge 130, or the housing of the elongated bridge 130. According to various embodiments, the second guide pin 286 may be perpendicular to the second elongated member 180.
[0137] According to various embodiments, the first elongated member 170 may include an elongated slot 378 extending longitudinally along the length of the first elongated member 170. According to various embodiments, a first guide pin 376 may be fitted through the elongated slot 378 of the first elongated member 170 to guide longitudinal movement of the first elongated member 170. Therefore, the first guide pin 376 may be fitted laterally through the elongated slot 378 of the first elongated member 170 such that longitudinal movement of the first elongated member 170 allows the first elongated member 170 to slide relative to the first guide pin 376. According to various embodiments, the elongated slot 378 of the first elongated member 170 may also serve as a stop or limiter, which may limit the range of longitudinal movement of the first elongated member 170 as a measure to limit the amount by which the first handle portion 110 extends from the elongated bridge 130.
[0138] According to various embodiments, the second elongated member 180 may include an elongated slot 388 extending longitudinally along the length of the second elongated member 180. According to various embodiments, a second guide pin 386 may be fitted through the elongated slot 388 of the second elongated member 180 to guide longitudinal movement of the second elongated member 180. Therefore, the second guide pin 386 may be fitted laterally through the elongated slot 388 of the second elongated member 180 such that longitudinal movement of the second elongated member 180 allows the second elongated member 180 to slide relative to the second guide pin 386. According to various embodiments, the elongated slot 388 of the second elongated member 180 may also serve as a stop or limiter, which may limit the range of longitudinal movement of the second elongated member 180 as a measure to limit the amount by which the second handle portion 120 extends from the elongated bridge 130.
[0139] According to various embodiments, the first bridging portion 114 of the first handle portion 110 may be a sleeve-like structure fitted onto the first half of the elongated bridge 130. According to various embodiments, the sleeve-like structure of the first bridging portion 114 may be hollow, allowing the first half of the elongated bridge 130 to be inserted therein. According to various embodiments, the sleeve-like structure of the first bridging portion 114 fitted onto the first half of the elongated bridge 130 may form a sliding engagement between the first bridging portion 114 of the first handle portion 110 and the first half of the elongated bridge 130.
[0140] Similarly, according to various embodiments, the second bridge portion 124 of the second handle portion 120 may be a sleeve-like structure fitted onto the second half of the elongated bridge 130. According to various embodiments, the sleeve-like structure of the second bridge portion 124 may be hollow, allowing the second half of the elongated bridge 130 to be inserted therein. According to various embodiments, the sleeve-like structure of the second bridge portion 124 fitted onto the second half of the elongated bridge 130 may form a sliding engagement between the second bridge portion 124 of the second handle portion 120 and the second half of the elongated bridge 130.
[0141] According to various embodiments, the first bridge portion 114 of the first handle portion 110 and the second bridge portion 124 of the second handle portion 120 may be configured such that when the extendable controller 300 is in the retracted state, the first bridge portion 114 of the first handle portion 110 and the second bridge portion 124 of the second handle portion 120 can completely surround or hide the elongated bridge 130.
[0142] Figure 5A A cross-sectional view of the second handle portion 120 of an extendable controller 300 in a retracted state, according to various embodiments, is shown. Figure 5BA cross-sectional view of the second handle portion 120 of an extendable controller 300 in an extended state, according to various embodiments, is shown. According to various embodiments, the extendable controller 300 may include a cable 396 extending between the first handle portion 110 and the second handle portion 120. According to various embodiments, the cable 396 can be used to establish an electrical connection between the first handle portion 110 and the second handle portion 120. Therefore, control input signals received in the first handle portion 110 can be shared with the second handle portion 120, and vice versa. Thus, the first handle portion 110 and the second handle portion 120 can operate as a single controller.
[0143] According to various embodiments, cable 396 may extend from the first handle portion 110, along the first bridge portion 114 of the first handle portion 110, along the elongated bridge 130, and along the second bridge portion 124 of the second handle portion 120 to the second handle portion 120. Therefore, cable 396 may extend alongside the extendable device 140 of the extendable controller 300.
[0144] According to various embodiments, when the extendable controller 300 is fully extended, the cable 396 can be fully extended to extend between the first handle portion 110 and the second handle portion 120. According to various embodiments, when the extendable controller 300 is retracted, the cable management device can retract the excess length of the cable 396. According to various embodiments, each of the first handle body portion 112 of the first handle portion 110 and the second handle body portion 122 of the second handle portion 120 may include a hollow cavity 398 for accommodating the excess length of the cable 396. Thus, when the extendable controller 300 is retracted, the excess length of the cable 396 can be coiled or bent into the hollow cavity 398. Therefore, the hollow cavity 398 can be used as a cable management device for managing the excess length of the cable 396 when the extendable controller 300 is retracted.
[0145] According to various embodiments, cable 396 may include, but is not limited to, flexible flat cable, flexible cable, ribbon cable, coaxial cable or conductor.
[0146] According to various embodiments, the elongated bridge 130 may include an elongated body 136 and a hollow housing 138 connected to the elongated body 136. The hollow housing 138 may define a through-channel extending from one end to the other. According to various embodiments, a dual reciprocating counter-motion carrier system 150 (including a first reciprocating carrier 152, a second reciprocating carrier 154, and a counter-motion mechanism 160) may be located or disposed within the through-channel of the hollow housing 138 of the elongated bridge 130. For example, the dual reciprocating counter-motion carrier system 150 may be disposed on the elongated body 136 of the elongated bridge 130. According to various embodiments, a first pulley 362, a second pulley 364, and a continuous annular belt 366 may be correspondingly positioned or disposed within the through-channel of the hollow housing 138 of the elongated bridge 130 (or disposed on the elongated body 136 of the elongated bridge 130). The counter-motion mechanism 160 includes the first pulley 362, the second pulley 364, and the continuous annular belt 366.
[0147] Various embodiments have provided an extendable controller capable of synchronously (or simultaneously) extending or retracting a first handle portion and a second handle portion relative to an elongated bridge in opposite directions in a consistent (or symmetrical) manner. Various embodiments also provide an extendable controller that is reliable and durable, and capable of providing stable and balanced extension and retraction.
[0148] While the invention has been specifically shown and described with reference to particular embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, and variations in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Therefore, the scope of the invention is indicated by the appended claims and is thus intended to include all changes falling within the meaning and scope of equivalents of the claims.
Claims
1. An extendable controller comprising: a first handle portion having a first bridging portion extending from a first handle body portion; a second handle portion having a second bridging portion extending from a second handle body portion; an elongate bridge, a first half of the elongate bridge being in sliding engagement with the first bridging portion of the first handle portion along a longitudinal axis of the elongate bridge, and a second half of the elongate bridge being in sliding engagement with the second bridging portion of the second handle portion along the longitudinal axis of the elongate bridge; and an extendable arrangement interconnecting the elongate bridge, the first handle portion and the second handle portion in a manner such that the first handle portion and the second handle portion are uniformly and synchronously extended and retracted in opposite directions relative to the elongate bridge along an extension axis parallel or coincident with the longitudinal axis of the elongate bridge, wherein the extendable arrangement comprises: a dual reciprocating counter-movement carrier system within the elongate bridge, the dual reciprocating counter-movement carrier system comprising: a first reciprocating carrier movable relative to the elongate bridge along a first carrier path and within the elongate bridge, a second reciprocating carrier movable relative to the elongate bridge along a second carrier path and within the elongate bridge, and a counter-movement mechanism interconnecting the first reciprocating carrier and the second reciprocating carrier, the counter-movement mechanism being configured to move the first reciprocating carrier and the second reciprocating carrier in opposite directions relative to an extension axis of the extendable arrangement, a first elongate member having a first end portion coupled to the first handle portion and a second end portion coupled to the first reciprocating carrier of the dual reciprocating counter-movement carrier system, and a second elongate member having a first end portion coupled to the second handle portion and a second end portion coupled to the second reciprocating carrier of the dual reciprocating counter-movement carrier system; wherein during extension of the extendable controller, the first reciprocating carrier moves from the second half of the elongate bridge to the first half of the elongate bridge in a manner such that the first elongate member moves the first handle portion longitudinally outwardly from the first half of the elongate bridge along the extension axis, and the second reciprocating carrier moves from the first half of the elongate bridge to the second half of the elongate bridge in a manner such that the second elongate member moves the second handle portion longitudinally outwardly from the second half of the elongate bridge along the extension axis. The first carrier path and the second carrier path are parallel to the extension axis and located on opposite sides of the extension axis.
2. The extendable controller of claim 1, wherein, The first carrier path and the second carrier path are equal in length and aligned with each other.
3. The extendable controller of claim 2, wherein, The counter-movement mechanism comprises:
4. The extendable controller of claim 1, wherein, a first pulley rotatably coupled to the first end portion of the elongate bridge in a manner such that it is rotatable about a first rotation axis perpendicular to the extension axis, a second pulley rotatably coupled to a second end portion of the elongate bridge in a manner enabling rotation about a second axis of rotation that is perpendicular to the axis of extension, the second axis of rotation being parallel to the first axis of rotation, and a continuous looped belt looped over the first and second pulleys, wherein the first reciprocating carrier is located at a first segment of the continuous looped belt and the second reciprocating carrier is located at a second segment of the continuous looped belt, the first and second segments of the continuous looped belt being located on opposite sides of the opposing motion mechanism across the axis of extension.
5. The extendable controller of claim 4, wherein, the first elongate member is parallel to the axis of extension and the second elongate member is parallel to the axis of extension.
6. The extendable controller of claim 5, further comprising: a first guide pin disposed at a first end portion of the elongate bridge, and a second guide pin disposed at a second end portion of the elongate bridge, wherein the first elongate member includes an elongate slot extending longitudinally along a length of the first elongate member and the first guide pin is fitted through the elongate slot of the first elongate member to guide longitudinal movement of the first elongate member, wherein the second elongate member includes an elongate slot extending longitudinally along a length of the second elongate member and the second guide pin is fitted through the elongate slot of the second elongate member to guide longitudinal movement of the second elongate member.
7. The extendable controller of claim 4, wherein, the continuous looped belt is a toothed belt, and wherein each of the first and second pulleys is a toothed pulley.
8. The extendable controller of claim 4, wherein, the continuous looped belt is made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyurethane (PU), or styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene (SEBS).
9. The extendable controller of claim 1, wherein, the first reciprocating carrier includes an interlocking device and a second end portion of the first elongate member includes a complementary interlocking device, wherein the interlocking device of the first reciprocating carrier and the complementary interlocking device of the first elongate member interlock with each other so as to couple the second end portion of the first elongate member to the first reciprocating carrier, and wherein the second reciprocating carrier includes an interlocking device and a second end portion of the second elongate member includes a complementary interlocking device, wherein the interlocking device of the second reciprocating carrier and the complementary interlocking device of the second elongate member interlock with each other so as to couple the second end portion of the second elongate member to the second reciprocating carrier.
10. The extendable controller of claim 9, wherein the interlocking device of the first reciprocating carrier is a protrusion and the complementary interlocking device of the first elongate member is a notch, and wherein the interlocking device of the second reciprocating carrier is a protrusion and the complementary interlocking device of the second elongate member is a notch.
11. The extendable controller of claim 1, wherein, the extendable device further comprises: a first biasing element connected between the first handle portion and a first end portion of the elongate bridge, the first biasing element configured to bias against extension of the first handle portion from the elongate bridge along the extension axis, and a second biasing element connected between the second handle portion and a second end portion of the elongate bridge, the second biasing element configured to bias against extension of the second handle portion from the elongate bridge along the extension axis.
12. The extendable controller of claim 11, wherein, Each of the first and second biasing elements is a tension spring or an extension spring.
13. The extendable controller of claim 11, wherein the first biasing element and the first reciprocating load are located on opposite sides of the counter-motion mechanism relative to the extension axis, wherein the second biasing element and the second reciprocating load are located on opposite sides of the counter-motion mechanism relative to the extension axis.
14. The extendable controller of claim 1, wherein the first bridge portion is a sleeve-like structure fitted over a first half of the elongate bridge, wherein the second bridge portion is a sleeve-like structure fitted over a second half of the elongate bridge.
15. The extendable controller of claim 1, further comprising a cable extending between the first handle portion and the second handle portion.
16. The extendable controller of claim 15, wherein, the cable extends along the first bridge portion, the elongate bridge, and the second bridge portion.
17. The extendable controller of claim 15, wherein, the cable comprises a flexible cable, a ribbon cable, a coaxial cable, or a wire.
18. An extendable controller, comprising: a first handle portion having a first bridge portion extending from a first handle body portion; a second handle portion having a second bridge portion extending from a second handle body portion; an elongate bridge having a first half slidingly engaged with the first bridge portion of the first handle portion along a longitudinal axis of the elongate bridge, and a second half slidingly engaged with the second bridge portion of the second handle portion along the longitudinal axis of the elongate bridge; and an extendable device interconnecting the elongate bridge, the first handle portion, and the second handle portion in a manner that causes the first handle portion and the second handle portion to extend and retract in unison in opposite directions relative to the elongate bridge along an extension axis that is parallel to or coincident with the longitudinal axis of the elongate bridge, wherein the extendable device comprises: a first pulley rotatably coupled to a first end portion of the elongate bridge in a manner that enables rotation about a first rotational axis that is perpendicular to the extension axis, a second pulley rotatably coupled to a second end portion of the elongate bridge in a manner that enables rotation about a second rotational axis that is perpendicular to the extension axis, the second rotational axis being parallel to the first rotational axis, a continuous looped belt looped around the first and second pulleys, a first elongate member disposed parallel to the extension axis, the first elongate member having a first end portion coupled to the first handle portion and a second end portion coupled to a first segment of the continuous looped band, and a second elongate member disposed parallel to the extension axis, the second elongate member having a first end portion coupled to the second handle portion and a second end portion coupled to a second segment of the continuous looped band, the first segment of the continuous looped band and the second segment of the continuous looped band being on opposite sides of the continuous looped band across the extension axis.
19. The extendable controller of claim 18, wherein, The extendable device further includes: a first biasing element connected between the first handle portion and the first end portion of the elongate bridge, the first biasing element configured to bias to prevent the first handle portion from extending from the elongate bridge along the extension axis, and a second biasing element connected between the second handle portion and the second end portion of the elongate bridge, the second biasing element configured to bias to prevent the second handle portion from extending from the elongate bridge along the extension axis.
20. The extendable controller of claim 19, wherein, Each of the first biasing element and the second biasing element is a tension spring or an extension spring.
21. The extendable controller of claim 18, wherein the first segment of the continuous looped band includes interlocking means, and the second end portion of the first elongate member includes complementary interlocking means, wherein the interlocking means of the first segment of the continuous looped band and the complementary interlocking means of the first elongate member interlock with each other to couple the second end portion of the first elongate member to the first segment of the continuous looped band, and wherein the second segment of the continuous looped band includes interlocking means, and the second end portion of the second elongate member includes complementary interlocking means, wherein the interlocking means of the second segment of the continuous looped band and the complementary interlocking means of the second elongate member interlock with each other to couple the second end portion of the second elongate member to the second segment of the continuous looped band.
22. The extendable controller of claim 21, wherein the interlocking means of the first segment of the continuous looped band includes a protrusion, and the complementary interlocking means of the first elongate member includes a notch, and wherein the interlocking means of the second segment of the continuous looped band includes a protrusion, and the complementary interlocking means of the second elongate member includes a notch.
23. The extendable controller of claim 18, wherein, the continuous looped band is a toothed belt, and wherein each of the first pulley and the second pulley is a toothed pulley.
24. The extendable controller of claim 18, further comprising: a first guide pin disposed at the first end portion of the elongate bridge, and a second guide pin disposed at the second end portion of the elongate bridge, wherein the first elongate member includes an elongate slot extending longitudinally along a length of the first elongate member, and the first guide pin fits through the elongate slot of the first elongate member to guide longitudinal movement of the first elongate member, wherein the second elongate member includes an elongate slot extending longitudinally along a length of the second elongate member, and the second guide pin is fitted through the elongate slot of the second elongate member to guide longitudinal movement of the second elongate member.
25. The extendable controller of claim 18, wherein, the first bridging portion is a sleeve-like structure fitted over a first half of the elongate bridge, wherein the second bridging portion is a sleeve-like structure fitted over a second half of the elongate bridge.
26. The extendable controller of claim 18, further comprising a cable extending between the first handle portion and the second handle portion.
27. The extendable controller of claim 26, wherein, the cable extends along the first bridging portion, the elongate bridge, and the second bridging portion.
28. The extendable controller of claim 26, wherein, the cable comprises a flexible cable, a ribbon cable, a coaxial cable, or a wire.
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Game controller for a mobile device with flat flex connector
US20220032178A1