Retractable / extendable joystick

Abstract

A joystick for an electronic game system controller includes a joystick shaft and a joystick housing. The joystick shaft is rotatably located in a slot of the joystick housing, and an end of the joystick shaft extends above the joystick housing. The joystick shaft includes a protrusion, and the joystick housing includes a plurality of indentations that can be engaged by the protrusion so that the end of the joystick shaft is at different heights relative to the joystick housing. The first indentation and the second indentation are positioned so that when the protrusion engages with the first indentation, rotation of the joystick shaft moves the protrusion to engage with the second indentation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electronic game controller having an adjustable joystick that allows a user to raise and lower the height of the joystick. Background Art

[0002] An electronic game controller includes one or more joystick assemblies that include a joystick that rotates on a base. When a user engages a handle at the end of the stick, a sensor mechanism on the base detects and reports the angle and / or direction of the stick's movement. The handle on the stick has a default height relative to the base that is selected during the manufacturing process of the controller. However, for different games, it may be desirable to raise or lower the handle height because different games work better with different handle heights. For example, in a first-person shooter game, it may be easier to use a taller stick than the default shorter stick. Summary of the invention

[0003] Most conventional video game controllers have a fixed joystick height. Other conventional video game controllers require the user to change the joystick height by replacing the handle or the entire stick.

[0004] Typically, adjusting the height of a joystick requires removing the default joystick on the controller and attaching a new joystick to the controller. However, removing and replacing a joystick in a controller is a cumbersome process that requires the user to physically disassemble the controller to remove the current joystick and install the desired joystick. Additionally, conventional systems require the user to maintain and track multiple different joysticks at different heights.

[0005] The present application provides an adjustable joystick assembly that allows a user to adjust the height of a joystick. The adjustable joystick described herein allows a user to rotate a handle of the joystick to raise and lower the joystick. The user can rotate the handle in a first direction to raise the joystick, and rotate the handle in a second direction opposite to the first direction to lower the joystick. Thus, the same joystick can be used at different heights without requiring the user to remove the controller.

[0006] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a joystick for an electronic game system controller comprises: a joystick shaft; and a joystick housing, wherein the joystick shaft is rotatably located in a slot of the joystick housing, wherein an end of the joystick shaft extends above the joystick housing, wherein the joystick shaft includes a protrusion, and the joystick housing includes a plurality of indentations, wherein the plurality of indentations can be engaged by the protrusion so that the end of the joystick shaft is at a different height relative to the joystick housing; wherein engagement of the protrusion with a first indentation of the plurality of indentations causes the end of the joystick shaft to be at a first height, wherein engagement of the protrusion with a second indentation of the plurality of indentations causes the end of the joystick shaft to be at a second height different from the first height; wherein the positions of the first indentation and the second indentation are such that when the protrusion engages with the first indentation, rotation of the joystick shaft causes the protrusion to move to engage with the second indentation.

[0007] According to an embodiment of any paragraph of the present invention, the control rod shaft can be rotated in a first direction to move the control rod shaft from engaging with the first indentation to engaging with the second indentation, wherein the control rod shaft can be rotated in a second direction to move the control rod shaft from engaging with the second indentation to engaging with the first indentation, wherein the second direction is opposite to the first direction.

[0008] According to an embodiment of any paragraph of the present disclosure, engagement of the protrusion with a third indentation of the plurality of indentations positions the end of the control lever shaft at a third height that is different from the first height and the second height.

[0009] According to an embodiment of any paragraph of the present invention, the second height is higher than the first height, and wherein the third height is higher than the second height.

[0010] According to an embodiment of any paragraph of the present disclosure, the second indentation and the third indentation are positioned such that rotation of the control lever shaft causes the protrusion to engage with the third indentation when the protrusion engages with the second indentation.

[0011] According to an embodiment of any paragraph of the present disclosure, the plurality of dimples are formed on a surface protruding inwardly from the groove.

[0012] According to an embodiment of any paragraph of the present disclosure, the control rod shaft further comprises a hole shaped to receive a portion of the surface so as not to restrict rotation of the control rod shaft.

[0013] According to an embodiment of any paragraph of the present disclosure, further comprising a biasing mechanism configured to bias the protrusion to engage with each of the plurality of indentations.

[0014] According to an embodiment of any paragraph of the present disclosure, the biasing mechanism comprises a compression spring.

[0015] According to an embodiment of any paragraph of the present invention, it also includes an attachment shaft, which is configured to securely connect the control rod shaft to the control rod housing, wherein the control rod shaft has an annular cross-section surrounding the attachment shaft, and wherein the control rod shaft is configured to rotate around the attachment shaft.

[0016] An embodiment according to any paragraph of the present disclosure further includes a thumb pad fixedly connected to the end of the control stick shaft such that rotation of the thumb pad causes corresponding rotation of the control stick shaft.

[0017] According to an embodiment of any paragraph of the present disclosure, the control lever shaft is rotatable in a first direction to move the control lever shaft from engaging with the first indentation to engaging with the second indentation, the second indentation being shaped to prevent further rotation in the first direction when the protrusion engages with the second indentation.

[0018] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic game system controller comprises: a controller body; and a controller control stick, which is movably connected to the controller body, and the controller control stick is rotatable around the pivot center of the controller body, wherein the controller control stick comprises: a control stick shaft; and a control stick housing, wherein the control stick shaft is rotatably located in a slot of the control stick housing, wherein an end of the control stick shaft extends above the control stick housing, wherein the control stick shaft comprises a protrusion, and the control stick housing comprises a plurality of indentations, and the plurality of indentations can be engaged by the protrusion so that the end of the control stick shaft is at different heights relative to the control stick housing; wherein the positions of a first indentation and a second indentation of the plurality of indentations are such that when the protrusion engages with the first indentation, rotation of the control stick shaft causes the protrusion to move to engage with the second indentation.

[0019] According to an embodiment of any paragraph of the present disclosure, the control lever housing is coupled to the controller body so that the control lever housing remains stationary while the control lever shaft rotates in the control lever housing.

[0020] According to an embodiment of any paragraph of the present disclosure, the joystick housing is coupled to a joystick shaft simulation sensor module in the controller body, the sensor module defining the pivot center.

[0021] According to an embodiment of any paragraph of the present invention, engagement of the protrusion and the first indentation causes the end of the control rod shaft to be located at a first height, and engagement of the protrusion and the second indentation causes the end of the control rod shaft to be located at a second height different from the first height.

[0022] According to an embodiment of any paragraph of the present disclosure, it also includes a second controller lever movably coupled to the controller body, wherein the second controller lever is rotatable above a second pivot center in the controller body.

[0023] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a joystick for an electronic game system controller comprises: a joystick shaft; and a joystick housing, wherein the joystick shaft is rotatably located in a slot of the joystick housing, wherein an end of the joystick shaft extends above the joystick housing, wherein the joystick shaft comprises a protrusion, and the joystick housing comprises a plurality of indentations, wherein the plurality of indentations can be engaged by the protrusion so that the end of the joystick shaft is at a different height relative to the joystick housing; wherein engagement of the protrusion with a first indentation of the plurality of indentations causes the end of the joystick shaft to be at a first height, and engagement of the protrusion with a second indentation of the plurality of indentations causes the end of the joystick shaft to be at a second height different from the first height; wherein, Engagement of the protrusion with a third of the plurality of indentations causes the end of the lever shaft to be located at a third height different from the first height and the second height; wherein the first and second indentations are positioned such that when the protrusion engages the first indentation, rotation of the lever shaft in a first direction causes the protrusion to engage with the second indentation; wherein the second and third indentations are positioned such that when the protrusion engages with the second position, rotation of the lever shaft in the first direction causes the protrusion to engage with the third position, and wherein the third indentation and the first indentation are positioned such that when the protrusion engages with the third indentation, rotation of the lever shaft in the first direction causes the protrusion to engage with the first indentation.

[0024] According to an embodiment of any paragraph of the present invention, the electronic game system controller includes a biasing mechanism, which is configured to bias the joystick handle toward the first height or the second height to strongly resist rotation of the at least part in the first direction or the second direction.

[0025] According to an embodiment of any paragraph of the present invention, the second controller control lever includes: a second control lever shaft; and a second control lever housing, wherein the second control lever shaft is rotatably located in a second slot of the second control lever housing, wherein an end of the second control lever shaft extends above the control lever housing; wherein the second control lever shaft includes a second protrusion, and the control lever housing includes a plurality of indentations engageable by the second protrusion so that the end of the second control lever shaft is at different heights relative to the controller body; wherein positions of a third indentation and a fourth indentation of the plurality of indentations are such that when the second protrusion engages with the third indentation, rotation of the second control lever shaft causes the protrusion to move to engage with the fourth indentation.

[0026] To accomplish the above and related ends, the present invention comprises the features fully described and particularly pointed out in the following claims. The following description and drawings set forth in detail certain illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure. However, these embodiments are indicative of only a few of the various ways in which the principles of the present disclosure may be applied. When used in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, the present invention will be described in detail. Figure 1 Other objects, advantages and novel features of the disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered together. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] The accompanying drawings do not necessarily show the various aspects of the disclosure to scale.

[0028] Figure 1 is a view of a controller lever assembly connected to a sensor module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a control rod housing after separation;

[0030] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Another view of the control rod housing after separation;

[0031] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A view of a rotatable component after separation;

[0032] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a controller control lever assembly;

[0033] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 Another view of the controller lever assembly;

[0034] Figure 7-9 The embodiment according to the present disclosure is shown Figure 1 The controller controls the process of moving the lever assembly about the rotation axis to move the lever shaft between different heights;

[0035] Fig.10 An electronic game controller according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0036] Fig.11 is a top view of an example controller lever assembly connected to a sensor module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0037] Fig. 12A yes Fig.11 A cross-sectional view of a control rod housing of a second example after separation;

[0038] Fig. 12B Similar to Fig. 12A , showing a cross-sectional view in a second position;

[0039] Fig. 12C Similar to Fig. 12A , showing a cross-sectional view in a third position;

[0040] Fig.13 yes Fig.11 Another cross-sectional view of the control rod housing;

[0041] Fig.14 yes Fig.11 A view of a rotatable component after separation;

[0042] Fig.15 yes Fig.11 A cross-sectional view of a controller control lever assembly;

[0043] Fig.16 yes Fig.11 Another view of the controller lever assembly;

[0044] Figure 17-19 It is shown that according to an embodiment of the present disclosure Fig.15 The controller controls the process of moving the lever assembly about the axis of rotation to move the lever shaft between different heights. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] Various aspects of the present application pertaining to an adjustable controller lever assembly are now described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of one or more aspects. However, it is apparent that these aspects can be practiced without these specific details.

[0046] With reference to the disclosure herein, directional terms such as top, bottom, left, right, up, down, upper, lower, above, above, below, below, rear, and front may be used for convenience and clarity purposes only. Such directional terms should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the features described herein in any way. It should be understood that the embodiments presented herein are by way of example, not by way of limitation. Although exemplary embodiments are discussed, the following detailed description is intended to be interpreted as covering all modifications, substitutions, and equivalents of the embodiments that may fall within the spirit and scope of the features described herein.

[0047] Figure 1 A controller joystick assembly 100 for use with an electronic game system controller is shown. In common electronic game controller terminology, a joystick may also be referred to as an analog stick or a thumb stick. Unlike conventional joysticks, the joystick assembly 100 allows a user to rotate a handle of the joystick assembly 100 (e.g., handle 116) to adjust the height of the handle relative to the controller without having to remove and replace the current handle with a handle of another height. Thus, the user does not need to disassemble the controller and / or the controller joystick assembly 100 to adjust the handle to a desired height. Figure 1 As shown, the control rod assembly 100 includes a control rod housing 102 and a rotatable component 103 that is movable relative to the control rod housing 102. As will be described in detail below, the rotatable component 103 includes a control rod shaft 104 that is movably retained within the control rod housing 102. A user can move (rotate) the control rod shaft 104 relative to the control rod housing 102 to extend or retract the rotatable component 103.

[0048] The control rod housing 102 may take any suitable shape and / or size for movably fixing the control rod shaft 104. The control rod housing 102 shown includes a hemispherical portion 106 and a cylindrical portion 108 extending from the hemispherical portion 106. The cylindrical portion 108 may be hollow to hold the control rod shaft 104 and have an open end to allow the control rod shaft 104 to extend outward from the cylindrical portion 108.

[0049] In addition to removably securing the control stick shaft 104, the control stick housing 102 may be configured to connect the controller control stick assembly 100 to the controller. In the illustrated embodiment, the control stick housing 102 is configured to connect to the rod 110 of the control stick shaft simulation sensor module 112 that may be embedded in the controller. For illustration purposes, Figure 1The sensor module 112 is shown as being separate from the controller. The rod 110 can be rigidly connected to the sensor 114 and / or, as shown, axially connected to the sensor 114, and the sensor 114 can be configured to detect pivoting of the rod 110. The sensor module 112 can further be configured to cause the rod 110 to move toward the sensor module 112. Figure 1 The neutral vertical position shown is offset, and the sensor 114 can detect movement of the lever 110 relative to the offset. Thus, when the user rotates the attached lever housing 102 about the pivot point of the lever 110, the sensor 112 detects the user-initiated movement of the lever assembly 100.

[0050] The rotatable assembly 103 of the controller lever assembly 100 may further include a handle 116 at the end of the lever shaft 104 to increase the ease of use of the lever assembly 100. The handle 116 may be of any suitable shape, size and / or configuration to increase the ease of use, and different configurations may be used for different levers. For example, where the lever assembly 100 is intended to be used by multiple fingers, the handle 116 may be spherical or shaped so as to be engaged by multiple fingers. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle 116 is a thumb pad that is annular with a central portion shaped to accommodate the end of the lever shaft 104.

[0051] As described above, the lever shaft 104 is configured to move within the cylindrical portion 108 of the lever housing 102 to extend and retract the handle 116. Any suitable motion may be used to raise and / or lower the handle 116. In the embodiment shown herein, the lever housing 102 and the lever shaft 104 are configured such that the lever shaft 104 is rotated in a first direction to extend the lever shaft 104 out of the cylindrical portion 108, and the lever shaft 104 is rotated in a second direction opposite to the first direction to retract the lever shaft 104 into the cylindrical portion 108.

[0052] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 To maintain the handle 116 at a selected height, the control rod housing 102 includes a plurality of indentations and a corresponding structure on the control rod shaft 104 that engages one of the plurality of indentations to maintain the control rod shaft 104 at the indentation. The control rod housing 102 may include any suitable number of indentations, and Figure 2In the illustrated embodiment, the control stick housing 102 includes three indentations. More specifically, the control stick housing 102 includes a first indentation 200, a second indentation 202, and a third indentation 204 (hereinafter referred to as "indentations 200-204"), each of which corresponds to a different height of the handle 116. Specifically, the first indentation 200 corresponds to the most retracted height of the handle 116, the third indentation 204 corresponds to the most extended height of the handle 116, and the second indentation 202 corresponds to an intermediate height between the most retracted height and the most extended height of the handle 116. Because the indentations 200-204 hold the handle 116 at different heights, the indentations 200-204 can further define a selectable range of height options that the user can select by rotating the control stick shaft 104.

[0053] The indentations 200-204 may have any suitable design and / or arrangement in the control rod housing 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner surface of the cylindrical portion 108 includes a protrusion 206 that extends into the opening defined by the cylindrical portion 108. The protrusion 206 includes an arcuate upper surface that defines a path of travel that the control rod shaft 104 follows when the control rod shaft 104 rotates. Figure 2 As shown, the indentations 200-204 are formed at different locations along the travel path. By positioning the indentations 200-204 that are engaged by the lever shaft 104 along the travel path, the lever assembly 100 allows the user to simply rotate the lever shaft 104 to move between different heights.

[0054] Figure 2 The view of the lever housing 102 in FIG. 1 shows one travel path on the protrusion 206. However, the lever housing 102 may include multiple travel paths that are configured to engage and / or support different portions of the lever shaft 104 during rotation. The multiple travel paths may each be formed on a separate protrusion and / or may share a protrusion. Each travel path may include a similar number of indentations and / or may be configured differently. Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the control rod housing 102 includes two travel paths 300 and 302 formed on the same protrusion 206 and having similar structures. Specifically, the travel paths 300 and 302 each include three indentations, such as indentations 200-204. In order to evenly support the control rod shaft 104 during rotation, the indentations 200-204 of each travel path are diametrically opposed within the cylindrical portion 108. For example, the third indentation 204 of the first travel path 300 corresponding to the most extended height is diametrically opposed to the third indentation 204 of the second travel path 302 also corresponding to the most extended height.

[0055] like Figure 3As shown, the control rod housing 102 also includes an attachment protrusion 304 extending longitudinally at the center of the cylindrical portion 108. The attachment protrusion 304 can be configured to be a position where the control rod shaft 104 is rotationally attached to the control rod housing 102. Figure 3 As shown, the attachment protrusion 304 includes a slot 306 that is configured to receive a corresponding attachment structure to rotationally secure the lever shaft 104 to the lever housing 102 .

[0056] Now go to Figure 4 , the rotatable assembly 103 is shown separately. As described above, the control rod shaft 104 is configured to releasably engage the indentations 200-204 of the control rod housing 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the control rod shaft 104 includes a protrusion 400 that is shaped to releasably engage the indentations 200-204. The control rod shaft 104 can include any suitable number of protrusions 400, and the number can depend on the configuration of the travel paths in the control rod housing 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the control rod shaft 104 includes two protrusions 400, each of which travels along a respective travel path 300 and 302 and engages a corresponding indentation 200-204 of the respective travel path 300 and 302.

[0057] To prevent other portions of the lever shaft 104 from inadvertently engaging the lever housing 102 and impeding rotation of the lever shaft 104 between the indentations 200-204, the lever shaft 104 further includes a hole or cutout 402 located adjacent to the protrusion 400 that is shaped to accommodate a portion of the arcuate path of travel of the protrusion 206. In addition, the hole 402 may be further shaped to engage the protrusion 206 to prevent rotation outside of a predefined rotation range. Figure 4 As shown, an edge 404 of the aperture 402 is shaped to engage the protrusion 206 when the protrusion 400 on the lever shaft 104 engages the first indentation 200 to prevent further retraction into the lever housing 102 .

[0058] The rotatable component 103 also includes a support rod 406 rotatably connected to the attachment protrusion 304. The support rod 406 includes an opening 408 at one end, and the opening 408 is shaped to allow the attachment protrusion 304 to be inserted into the support rod 406. Figure 4 As shown, the control rod shaft 104 is arranged concentrically with the support rod 406 , and the control rod shaft 104 extends around the support rod 406 .

[0059] Now go to Figure 5 , shows a cross-sectional view of a rotatable component 103 connected to a control rod housing 102, with the control rod shaft 104 at a maximum retracted height. In the attached configuration, the attachment protrusion 304 in the cylindrical portion 108 extends into the support rod 406 of the rotatable component 103. Thus, as shown Figure 5As shown, the control lever shaft 104 and the support rod 406 are sandwiched between the attachment protrusion 304 and the wall of the cylindrical portion 108 .

[0060] The illustrated lever shaft 104 also includes an outwardly extending protrusion 500 that forms the handle 116 with a pad 502. Since the protrusion 400 of the lever shaft 104 is used to maintain the handle 116 at a selected height, the lever shaft 104 is made of a rigid material (e.g., a thermoplastic polymer) that may be uncomfortable or slippery for long-term contact by a user, so a pad 502 made of a softer gripping material (e.g., rubber) is applied to the protrusion 500 to provide a softer and non-slip surface for user contact. As seen in the illustrated embodiment, the pad 502 is shaped so that a portion of the underside of the protrusion 500 is exposed, leaving the cylindrical portion 108 in the most retracted position.

[0061] To ensure that the protrusions 400 on the control lever shaft 104 continuously engage their respective paths of travel 300 and 302, the controller control lever assembly 100 may further include a biasing mechanism 504 that biases the control lever shaft 104 downward (i.e., retracts) toward the paths of travel 300 and 302. In the illustrated embodiment, the biasing mechanism 504 is a biased compression spring 504, with a first end of the spring 504 engaging the inwardly extending surface 506 of the support rod 406 and a second end engaging a screw 508 threaded into the slot 306 of the attachment portion 304. One end of the spring is fixed to the fixed control lever housing 102 by the screw 508, and during the rotation of the control lever shaft 104, when the attachment protrusion 304 moves along the path of travel, the spring 504 is compressed. Therefore, the spring 504 presses the protrusion 400 of the control lever shaft 104 downward, causing the protrusion 206 of the control lever housing 102 to engage. The control lever shaft 104 and / or the control lever handle 116 are rotatable around the pivot center, and rotation in a first direction causes the control lever handle 116 to reach a first height relative to the hemispherical portion 106 or the controller body, and rotation in a second direction different from the first direction causes the control lever handle 116 to reach a second height relative to the hemispherical portion 106 or the controller body. The biasing mechanism 504 biases the control lever handle 116 toward the first height or the second height to resist rotation in the first direction or the second direction. Although a spring is used as the biasing mechanism 504 in the present embodiment, any suitable biasing mechanism may be used, such as an elastomer, a compressible gas, or other compressible and elastic material.

[0062] like Figure 5As shown, the hemispherical portion 106 of the control rod housing 102 is hollow and defines a curved groove 510, and the cylindrical portion 108 extends from opposite sides of the hemispherical portion 106. Specifically, a first portion 512 of the cylindrical portion 108 extends from the top of the hemispherical portion 106, and a second portion 514 of the cylindrical portion 108 extends from the bottom of the hemispherical portion 106. The second portion 514 of the cylindrical portion 108 includes an attachment slot 516 for connecting the control rod assembly 100 to the rod 110 of the sensor module 112.

[0063] When a user rotates the rotatable assembly 103, the rod 110 and / or the attachment slot 516 may be shaped to secure the control stick housing 102 in place when connected to an electronic game controller. Figure 6 , shown is an embodiment in which the attachment slot 516 has a non-circular cross-sectional shape to prevent the control rod housing 102 from rotating around the rod 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment slot 516 has a rectangular cross-sectional shape, but other non-circular shapes, such as triangles, polygons, ellipses, and / or the like, are conceivable. Similarly, the rod 110 may also have a non-circular cross-sectional shape, such as a rectangle and / or the like. The cross-sectional shapes of the rod 110 and the attachment slot 516 may be similar and / or may vary.

[0064] Now go to Figure 7-Figure 9 , which shows the control rod assembly 100 in the most retracted position 700 ( Figure 7 ) and the most extended position 900( Fig. 9 ). Figure 7 As shown, in the most retracted position 700 corresponding to the first indentation 200, the handle 116 is held in a position closest to the control rod housing 102. The user can then rotate the handle 116 about the axis A in the direction B to move the handle 116 from the most retracted position 700 to the intermediate position 800 ( Figure 8 ).like Figure 8 As shown, the handle 116 is spaced apart from the control rod housing 102 at the intermediate position 800, and the handle 116 is held at the intermediate position 800 by the second indentation 202. Then, the user can rotate the handle 116 in the direction B around the axis A again to move the handle 116 from the intermediate position 800 ( Figure 8 ) moves to the most extended position 900( Fig. 9 ).like Fig. 9 As shown, the handle 116 is further spaced from the lever housing 102 in the most extended position 900 to a point where a portion of the hole 402 of the lever shaft 104 is exposed. Conversely, to lower the handle 116 from the most extended position 900 and / or the intermediate position 800, the user can rotate the handle 116 about the axis A in a direction C opposite to the direction B.

[0065] By using an angled travel path (e.g., travel path 300) with multiple indentations that are continuously engaged by the lever shaft 104, the user only needs to rotate the lever shaft 104 (e.g., through the handle 116) to adjust the height of the handle 116. Therefore, the user does not need to remove the current handle and replace it with a new handle of a different height, nor does the user need to pull the handle upward to engage the lock to hold the handle at an upward height while rotating the handle.

[0066] Now go to Fig.10 , shown is an electronic game controller 1000, which includes a first control stick 1002 and a second control stick 904 attached thereto. In one embodiment, the first control stick 1002 and the second control stick 1004 can be independently adjusted to raise and lower the associated handles, similar to the control stick assembly 100 described above. In the illustrated embodiment, the first control stick 1002 can rotate about a first axis X and the second control stick 1004 can rotate about a second axis Y. As shown, the first axis X and the second axis Y can be parallel to each other and / or at an angle. In this way, the first control stick 1002 can be raised to the most extended position 900 ( Fig. 9 ), while raising the second control rod 904 to the middle position 800 ( Figure 8 In another embodiment, only one control rod is adjustable (eg, first control rod 1002), while the other control rod is fixed (eg, second control rod 1004).

[0067] Fig.11 Shown for use similar to Figure 1 An example controller lever assembly 1100 of an electronic gaming system controller of an example controller lever assembly 100 is shown. As with the previously described examples, the controller lever assembly 1100 allows a user to rotate a handle 1102 of the lever assembly 1100 to adjust the height of the handle 1102 relative to the controller without having to remove and replace the current handle with a handle of another height. Therefore, the user does not need to disassemble the controller and / or the controller lever assembly 1100 to adjust the handle to the desired height. Fig.11 As shown, the controller lever assembly 1100 includes a lever housing 1104 and a rotatable component 1106 that is movable relative to the lever housing 1104. As will be described in detail below, the rotatable component 1106 includes a lever shaft 1108 that is movably retained within the lever housing 1104. A user can move (rotate) the lever shaft 1108 relative to the lever housing 1104 to extend or retract the rotatable component 1106.

[0068] The control rod housing 1104 can take any suitable shape and / or size for movably holding the control rod shaft 1108. The illustrated control rod housing 1104 includes a hemispherical portion 1110 and a cylindrical portion 1112 extending from the hemispherical portion 1110. The cylindrical portion 1112 can be hollow to hold the control rod shaft 1108 and have an open end to allow the control rod shaft 1108 to extend outwardly from the cylindrical portion 1112.

[0069] In addition to removably retaining the joystick shaft 1108, the joystick housing 1104 can be configured to attach the controller joystick assembly 1100 to the controller. In the illustrated embodiment, the joystick housing 1104 is configured to connect to a rod 1114 of a joystick shaft simulation sensor module 1116 that can be embedded in the controller. For illustration purposes, Fig.11 The sensor module 1116 is shown as being separate from the controller. The rod 1114 can be rigidly connected to the sensor 1116 and / or, as shown, axially connected to the sensor 1116, and the sensor 1116 can be configured to detect pivoting of the rod 1114. The sensor module 1116 can be further configured to cause the rod 1114 to move toward the sensor module 1116. Fig.11 The neutral vertical position shown is offset, and the sensor 1116 can detect the movement of the rod 1114 relative to the offset. Therefore, when the user rotates the attached control rod housing 1104 about the pivot point of the rod 1114, the sensor 1116 detects the user-initiated movement of the control rod assembly 1100.

[0070] like Fig. 12A , Fig. 12B and Fig. 12C As shown, in order to hold the handle 1102 (not shown in Figure 12A-12C ) at a selected height, the example control rod housing 1104 includes a plurality of indentations and a corresponding structure on the control rod shaft that engages one of the plurality of indentations to hold the control rod shaft at the selected indentation. The control rod housing 1104 may include any suitable number of indentations, and Figure 12A-12C In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the control rod housing 1104 includes three indentations. More specifically, the control rod housing 1104 includes the following: Fig. 12A The first indentation 1200 shown in FIG. Fig. 12B The second indentation 1202 shown and Fig. 12CThe third indentation 1204 (hereinafter referred to as "indentation 1200-1204") is shown, each corresponding to a different height of the handle 1102. Specifically, the first indentation 1200 corresponds to the most retracted height of the handle 1102, the third indentation 1204 corresponds to the most extended height of the handle 1102, and the second indentation 1202 corresponds to an intermediate height between the most retracted height and the most extended height of the handle 1102. Since the indentations 1200-1204 hold the handle 1102 at different heights, the indentations 1200-1204 can further define a selectable range of height options, which the user can select by rotating the control lever shaft 1108.

[0071] The indentations 1200-1204 may have any suitable design and / or arrangement in the control rod housing 1104. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner surface of the cylindrical portion 1112 includes a protrusion 1208 that extends into the opening defined by the cylindrical portion 1112. The protrusion 1208 includes an arcuate upper surface that defines a path of travel that the control rod shaft 1108 follows when the control rod shaft 1108 rotates. Figure 12A-12C As shown, the indentations 1200-1204 are formed at different locations along the travel path. By positioning the indentations 1200-1204 engaged by the lever shaft 1108 along the travel path, the lever assembly 1100 allows the user to simply rotate the lever shaft 1108 to move the handle 1102 between different heights.

[0072] Figure 12A-12C The view of the lever housing 1104 in FIG. 1 shows one travel path on the protrusion 1208. However, the lever housing 1104 may include multiple travel paths that are configured to engage and / or support different portions of the lever shaft 1108 during rotation. The multiple travel paths may each be formed on a separate protrusion and / or may share a protrusion. Each travel path may include a similar number of indentations and / or may be configured differently. Fig.13 In the illustrated embodiment, the lever housing 1104 includes two travel paths 1300 and 1302 formed on the same protrusion 1208 and having similar structures. Specifically, the travel paths 1300 and 1302 each include three indentations, for example, indentations 1200-1204. In order to evenly support the lever shaft 1108 during rotation, the indentations 1200-1204 of each travel path are diametrically opposed within the cylindrical portion 1112. For example, the third indentation 1204 of the first travel path 1300 corresponding to the most extended height is diametrically opposed to the third indentation 1204 of the second travel path 1302 also corresponding to the most extended height.

[0073] like Fig.13As shown, the control rod housing 1104 also includes an attachment protrusion 1304 extending longitudinally at the center of the cylindrical portion 1112. The attachment protrusion 1304 can be configured as a position where the control rod shaft 1108 is rotatably attached to the control rod housing 1104. Fig.13 As shown, the attachment protrusion 1304 includes a slot 1306 that is configured to receive a corresponding attachment structure to rotationally secure the lever shaft 1108 to the lever housing 1104 .

[0074] Now go to Fig.14 , the rotatable assembly 1106 is shown separately. As described above, the control rod shaft 1108 is configured to releasably engage the indentations 1200-1204 (e.g., Figure 12A-12C 1204). In the illustrated embodiment, the lever shaft 1108 includes a protrusion 1400 shaped to releasably engage the indentations 1200-1204. The lever shaft 1108 may include any suitable number of protrusions 1400, which may depend on the configuration of the travel paths in the lever housing 1104. In the illustrated embodiment, the lever shaft 1108 includes two protrusions 1400, each protrusion 1400 travels along a respective travel path 1300 and 1302 and engages a corresponding indentation 1200-1204 of the respective travel paths 1300 and 1302.

[0075] To prevent other portions of the lever shaft 1108 from inadvertently engaging the lever housing 1104 and impeding rotation of the lever shaft 1108 between the indentations 1200-1204, the lever shaft 1108 also includes a hole or cutout 1402 located adjacent to the protrusion 1400, which is shaped to accommodate a portion of the arcuate path of travel of the protrusion 1208. In addition, the hole 1402 can be further shaped to engage or not engage the protrusion 1208, thereby enabling rotation within a 360 degree rotation range. Fig.14 As shown, when the protrusion 1400 on the lever shaft 1108 engages the first indentation 1200 to prevent further retraction into the lever housing 1104 , the edge 1404 of the aperture 1402 is shaped to engage the protrusion 1208 .

[0076] The rotatable assembly 1106 also includes a support rod 1406 rotatably connected to the attachment protrusion 1304. The support rod 1406 includes an opening 1408 at one end, which is shaped to allow the support rod 1406 to be inserted into the attachment protrusion 1304. Fig.14 As shown, the control rod shaft 1108 is arranged concentrically with the support rod 1406, and the control rod shaft 1108 extends around the attachment protrusion 1304.

[0077] Now go to Fig.15, shows a cross-sectional view of the rotatable component 1106 connected to the control rod housing 1104, with the control rod shaft 1108 at the most retracted height. In the attached configuration, the attachment protrusion 1304 in the cylindrical portion 1112 extends around the support rod 1406 of the rotatable component 1106. Thus, as shown Fig.15 As shown, the attachment protrusion 1304 and the control rod shaft 1108 are sandwiched between the support rod 1406 and the wall of the cylindrical portion 1112.

[0078] The illustrated lever shaft 1108 also includes an outwardly extending protrusion 1500 that forms the handle 1102 with the pad cover 1502. Since the protrusion 1400 of the lever shaft 1108 is used to maintain the handle 1102 at a selected height, the lever shaft 1108 is made of a hard material (e.g., a thermoplastic polymer) that may be uncomfortable or rough for a user to contact for a long time, so the pad cover 1502 is made of a softer gripping material (e.g., rubber) for application on the protrusion 1500 to provide a softer and non-slip surface for the user to contact. In the illustrated embodiment, the pad cover 1502 is shaped to expose a portion of the underside of the protrusion 1500, leaving the cylindrical portion 1112 in the most retracted position.

[0079] To ensure that the protrusions 1400 on the control lever shaft 1108 continuously engage their respective travel paths 1300 and 1302, the controller control lever assembly 1100 may further include a biasing mechanism 1504 that biases the control lever shaft 1108 downward (i.e., retracted) toward the travel paths 1300 and 1302. In the illustrated embodiment, the biasing mechanism 1504 is a biased compression spring 1504, with a first end of the spring 1504 engaging a first surface and a second end engaging an opposing surface of a screw 1508 threadedly inserted into the opening 1408 of the support rod 1406. Fig.15The spring 1504 is shown fully compressed, however, the lower end of the spring 1504 can be understood to be in contact with the upward side of the screw head of the screw 1508. By fixing one end of the spring 1504 to the fixed control lever housing 1104 by the screw 1508, the spring 1504 is compressed when the protrusion 1400 moves along the travel path 1300, 1302 during the rotation of the control lever shaft 1108. Therefore, the spring 1504 presses the protrusion 1400 of the control lever shaft 1108 downwardly, so that the protrusion 1208 of the control lever housing 1104 engages. The control lever shaft 1108 and / or the control lever handle 1102 are rotatable about the pivot center, and rotation in a first direction causes the control lever handle 1102 to reach a first height relative to the hemispherical portion 1110 or the controller body, and rotation in a second direction different from the first direction causes the control lever handle 1102 to reach a second height relative to the hemispherical portion 1110 or the controller body. The biasing mechanism 1504 biases the control rod handle 1102 toward the first height or the second height to resist rotation in the first direction or the second direction. Although a spring is used as the biasing mechanism 1504 in the present embodiment, any suitable biasing mechanism may be used, such as an elastomer, a compressible gas or other compressible and elastic material.

[0080] like Fig.16 As shown, the hemispherical portion 1110 of the control rod housing 1104 is hollow and defines a curved groove 1600, and the cylindrical portion 1112 extends from opposite sides of the hemispherical portion 1110. Specifically, the first portion 1602 of the cylindrical portion 1112 extends from the top of the hemispherical portion 1110, and the second portion 1604 of the cylindrical portion 1112 extends from the bottom of the hemispherical portion 1110. The second portion 1604 of the cylindrical portion 1112 includes an attachment slot 1606 (such as a slot 1606) for connecting the control rod assembly 1100 to the rod 1114 of the sensor module 1116. Fig.11 shown).

[0081] When a user rotates the rotatable component 1106, the rod 1114 and / or the attachment slot 1606 can be shaped to secure the control stick housing 1104 in place when connected to an electronic game controller. Fig.16 As shown, the attachment slot 1606 has a non-circular cross-sectional shape to prevent the control rod housing 1104 from rotating around the rod 1114. In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment slot 1606 has a rectangular cross-sectional shape with slightly curved shorter sides, but other non-circular shapes are conceivable, such as triangular, polygonal, elliptical, and / or similar shapes. Similarly, the rod 1114 can also have a non-circular cross-sectional shape, such as a rectangular and / or similar shape. The cross-sectional shapes of the rod 1114 and the attachment slot 1606 can be similar and / or can vary.

[0082] Now go to Figure 17-Figure 19 , which shows the control rod assembly 1100 in the most retracted position 1700 ( Fig.17 ) and the most extended position 1900( Fig.19 ). Fig.17 As shown, in the most retracted position 1700 corresponding to the first indentation 1200, the handle 1102 is held in the position closest to the control rod housing 1104. The user can then rotate the handle 1102 about the axis A in the direction B to move the handle 1102 from the most retracted position 1700 to the intermediate position 1800 ( Fig.18 ).like Fig.18 As shown, the handle 1102 is separated from the control rod housing 1104 of the intermediate position 1800, and the handle 1102 is held in the intermediate position 1800 by the second indentation 1202. Then, the user can rotate the handle 1102 in the direction B around the axis A again to move the handle 1102 from the intermediate position 1800 ( Fig.18 ) moves to the most extended position 1900( Fig.19 ).like Fig.19 As shown, the handle 1102 is further spaced from the lever housing 1104 in the most extended position 1900 until a portion of the hole 1402 of the lever shaft 1108 is exposed. Conversely, to lower the handle 1102 from the most extended position 1900 and / or the intermediate position 1800, the user can rotate the handle 1102 around the axis A in a direction C opposite to the direction B.

[0083] However, as previously discussed, after reaching the most extended position 1900, the protrusion 1400 can be shaped to accommodate the arcuate travel path portion of the protrusion 1208 without physical interference or hard stops ( Fig.19 ). In other words, the controller lever assembly 1100 of this example enables the user to rotate the handle 1102 through a full 360 degrees. The protrusion 1400 is configured with the protrusion 1208 and the respective paths 1300, 1302 to allow the handle 1102 to rotate in the direction B beyond the most extended position 1900 ( Fig.19 ). Continuing to rotate in direction B will not encounter a hard stop, but will move the handle 1102 from the most extended position 1900 ( Fig.19 ) moves directly to the most retracted position 1700( Fig.17 Thus, the handle 1102 can be moved without passing through the intermediate position 1800 ( Fig.18 ), in the direction B from the most extended position 1900 ( Fig.19 ) rotates to the most retracted position 1700( Fig.17 As described above, a 360-degree rotation can allow the handle 1102 to move from the most extended position 1900 ( Fig.19) moves faster to the most retracted position 1700 ( Fig.17 ), and can also reduce the possibility of unintentional wear caused by forcing the handle 1102 against a hard stop.

[0084] By using an angled travel path (e.g., travel path 1300) having a plurality of indentations that are continuously engaged by lever shaft 1108, a user need only rotate lever shaft 1108 (e.g., through handle 1102) to adjust the height of handle 1102. Thus, the user does not need to remove the current handle and replace it with a new handle of a different height, nor does the user need to pull the handle upward to engage a lock while rotating the handle to secure the handle at an upward height. definition

[0085] The following includes definitions of selected terms used herein. The definitions include various examples or forms of components that fall within the scope of the term and can be used for implementation. These examples are not intended to be limiting. Both singular and plural forms of a term may be used in the definitions.

[0086] An "operably connected" or entity "operably connected" is a connection that can send or receive signals, physical communications, or logical communications. Typically, an operable connection includes a physical interface, an electrical interface, or a data interface, but it should be noted that an operable connection can include different combinations of these or other types of connections, as long as they allow for an operable control interface. For example, two entities may be operably connected by being able to communicate signals to each other directly or through one or more intermediate entities (such as a processor, operating system, logic, software, or other entity). Logical or physical communication channels can be used to create an operable connection.

[0087] To the extent that the terms "include" or "comprising" are used in the detailed description or the claims, they are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "comprising" when interpreted as a transitional word in the claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term "or" is used in the detailed description or the claims (e.g., A or B), it is intended to mean "A or B or both." When applicants intend to indicate "only A or B, but not both," the term "only A or B, but not both" is used. Thus, the use of the term "or" herein is inclusive, not exclusive. See Bryan A. Garner, Dictionary of Contemporary Legal Usage, 624 (2d. Ed. 1995).

[0088] Although example systems, methods, etc. have been illustrated by describing examples, and although the examples have been described in considerable detail, the applicant does not intend to limit or in any way restrict the scope of such details. Of course, in order to describe the systems, methods, etc. described herein, it is impossible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies. Additional advantages and modifications will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the specific details, representative devices, and illustrative embodiments shown and described. Therefore, the present application is intended to include changes, modifications, and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims. In addition, the above description is not meant to limit the scope of the present invention. On the contrary, the scope of the present invention is determined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An electronic game system controller joystick, comprising: Control rod shaft; and a lever housing, wherein the lever shaft is rotatably positioned in a slot in the lever housing, wherein an end of the lever shaft extends above the lever housing, wherein the lever shaft includes a protrusion, and wherein the lever housing includes a plurality of indentations engageable by the protrusion to position the end of the lever shaft at a different height relative to the lever housing; wherein engagement of the protrusion with a first indentation of the plurality of indentations causes the end of the control rod shaft to be located at a first height, and wherein engagement of the protrusion with a second indentation of the plurality of indentations causes the end of the control rod shaft to be located at a second height different from the first height; The first and second indentations are positioned such that when the protrusion engages the first indentation, rotation of the control lever shaft moves the protrusion into engagement with the second indentation.

2. The controller lever according to claim 1, wherein: The lever shaft is rotatable in a first direction to move the lever shaft from engaging the first indentation to engaging the second indentation, wherein the lever shaft is rotatable in a second direction to move the lever shaft from engaging the second indentation to engaging the first indentation, wherein the second direction is opposite to the first direction.

3. The controller lever according to claim 1, wherein: Engagement of the protrusion and a third indentation of the plurality of indentations positions the end of the control lever shaft at a third height that is different from the first height and the second height.

4. The controller lever according to claim 3, wherein: The second height is higher than the first height, and the third height is higher than the second height.

5. The controller lever according to claim 3, wherein: The second and third indentations are positioned such that rotation of the control lever shaft when the protrusion engages the second indentation causes the protrusion to engage the third indentation.

6. The controller lever according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of dimples are formed on a surface protruding inwardly from the groove.

7. The controller lever according to claim 6, wherein: The control lever shaft also includes a hole shaped to receive a portion of the surface so as not to restrict rotation of the control lever shaft.

8. The controller lever of claim 1, further comprising a biasing mechanism configured to bias the protrusion into engagement with each of the plurality of indentations.

9. The controller lever according to claim 8, wherein: The biasing mechanism includes a compression spring.

10. The controller joystick of claim 1, further comprising an attachment shaft configured to securely connect the joystick shaft to the joystick housing, wherein: The control lever shaft has an annular cross-section surrounding the attachment axis, wherein the control lever shaft is configured to rotate about the attachment axis.

11. The controller joystick of claim 1 further comprising a thumb pad fixedly connected to the end of the joystick shaft such that rotation of the thumb pad causes corresponding rotation of the joystick shaft.

12. The controller lever according to claim 1, wherein: The lever shaft is rotatable in a first direction to move the lever shaft from engagement with the first indentation to engagement with the second indentation, the second indentation being shaped to prevent further rotation in the first direction when the protrusion is engaged with the second indentation.

13. An electronic game system controller, comprising: Controller body; and a controller lever movably connected to the controller body, the controller lever being rotatable about a pivot center of the controller body, wherein the controller lever comprises: control lever shaft; and a lever housing, wherein the lever shaft is rotatably positioned in a slot in the lever housing, wherein an end of the lever shaft extends above the lever housing, wherein the lever shaft includes a protrusion, and wherein the lever housing includes a plurality of indentations engageable by the protrusion to position the end of the lever shaft at a different height relative to the lever housing; Wherein, the first and second indentations of the plurality of indentations are positioned such that when the protrusion engages the first indent, rotation of the control lever shaft moves the protrusion into engagement with the second indent.

14. The electronic gaming system controller of claim 13, wherein: The control lever housing is coupled to the controller body such that the control lever housing remains stationary while the control lever shaft rotates in the control lever housing.

15. The electronic gaming system controller of claim 14, wherein: The joystick housing is coupled to a joystick shaft emulation sensor module in the controller body, wherein the sensor module defines the pivot center.

16. The electronic gaming system controller of claim 13, wherein: The engagement of the protrusion and the first indentation positions the end of the control rod shaft at a first height, and the engagement of the protrusion and the second indentation positions the end of the control rod shaft at a second height different from the first height.

17. The electronic gaming system controller of claim 13, further comprising a second controller lever movably coupled to the controller body, wherein: The second controller lever is rotatable over a second pivot center in the controller body.

18. The electronic gaming system controller of claim 17, wherein: The second controller lever comprises: a second control lever shaft; and a second lever housing, wherein the second lever shaft is rotatably positioned in a second slot of the second lever housing, wherein an end of the second lever shaft extends above the lever housing; wherein the second lever shaft includes a second protrusion, and the lever housing includes a plurality of indentations engageable by the second protrusion to position the end of the second lever shaft at different heights relative to the controller body; Wherein, the third and fourth indentations of the plurality of indentations are positioned such that when the second protrusion engages the third indent, rotation of the second lever shaft moves the protrusion into engagement with the fourth indent.

19. An electronic game system controller joystick, comprising: control lever shaft; and A control lever housing, wherein the lever shaft being rotatably located in the slot of the lever housing, wherein an end of the lever shaft extends above the lever housing, wherein the lever shaft includes a protrusion and the lever housing includes a plurality of indentations engageable by the protrusion to position the end of the lever shaft at a different height relative to the lever housing; wherein the engagement of the protrusion with a first indentation of the plurality of indentations causes the end of the control rod shaft to be located at a first height, and the engagement of the protrusion with a second indentation of the plurality of indentations causes the end of the control rod shaft to be located at a second height different from the first height; wherein the engagement of the protrusion with a third indentation of the plurality of indentations causes the end of the control rod shaft to be located at a third height different from the first height and the second height; wherein the first indentation and the second indentation are positioned such that when the protrusion engages the first indentation, rotation of the control lever shaft in a first direction causes the protrusion to engage the second indentation; wherein the second indentation and the third indentation are positioned such that when the protrusion engages the second position, rotation of the control lever shaft in the first direction causes the protrusion to engage the third position, and The third indentation and the first indentation are positioned such that when the protrusion engages with the third indentation, rotation of the control lever shaft in the first direction causes the protrusion to engage with the first indentation.

20. The electronic gaming system controller of claim 19, further comprising a biasing mechanism configured to bias the joystick grip toward the first height or the second height to strongly resist rotation of the at least portion in the first direction or the second direction.

21. An electronic game system controller comprising: a controller body; and A controller lever is movably coupled to the controller body and has a handle, wherein The controller lever or the handle is rotatable relative to the controller body, and the rotation of the controller lever or the handle causes the height of the handle to change relative to the controller body.

22. The electronic gaming system controller of claim 21, wherein: The controller control rod or the handle can rotate 360 ​​degrees relative to the controller body.

23. The electronic gaming system controller of claim 21, wherein: The controller lever or the handle is rotatable in a first direction to change the height of the handle from a most retracted position to an intermediate position to a most extended position.

24. The electronic gaming system controller of claim 21, wherein: The controller lever or the handle is rotatable in a first direction to change the height of the handle from a most retracted position to an intermediate position, from the intermediate position to a most extended position, and from the most extended position to the most retracted position.

25. The electronic gaming system controller of claim 21, wherein: The controller lever or the handle is rotatable in a first direction to change the height of the handle from a most extended position to a most retracted position.

26. The electronic gaming system controller of claim 21, wherein: The controller lever or the handle is rotatable in a first direction and a second direction opposite to the first direction to change the height of the handle relative to the controller body.

27. The electronic gaming system controller of claim 21, wherein: The controller lever or the handle may be rotated in a first direction to increase the height of the handle relative to the controller body, and rotated in a second direction opposite to the first direction to decrease the height of the handle relative to the controller body.

28. The electronic gaming system controller of claim 21, wherein: The controller lever or the handle may be rotated in a first direction to increase the height of the handle relative to the controller body, and further rotation in the first direction may cause the height of the handle to be decreased relative to the controller body.

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