Simulation rod with eccentrically arranged spring support

Abstract

The invention relates to a simulation lever with an eccentrically arranged spring support, comprising a pivotably mounted actuating lever (110), which has an actuating element (140) on a first axial end section and a plate-shaped actuating element (150) on an opposite second axial end section. The plate-shaped actuating element (150) is in contact with the spring-preloaded clip (160) and is designed to transmit a deflection of the actuating lever (110) to the clip (160), whereby the clip (160) deflects against the spring force of the spring element (170). The clip (160) is designed to reset the actuating lever (110) into its zero state in an unactuated state by means of the spring force of the spring element (170), the spring element (170) and the actuating lever (100) being laterally spaced apart from each other as viewed in the direction of extension of the clip (160).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The innovative concept described herein relates to an analog stick for a joystick or game controller with magnetic field-based motion recognition. Background Art

[0002] Joysticks for control are used in many applications today. Joysticks are known in particular in connection with the control of computer games. But at the same time, industrial machines and aircraft are also controlled with joysticks.

[0003] At first, digital joysticks were particularly popular. Thus, similar to a control panel, the four directions (left / right - up / down) could be digitally depicted. However, with the advent of three-dimensional worlds in computer games, the requirements for control became more complex. This led to the development of analog controllers or joysticks that could depict movements significantly more accurately.

[0004] In the consumer market, these analog control devices are known in particular by the introduction of analog sticks into game controllers. The analog sticks are usually installed in addition to the control panel and are provided for operation with the thumb. In principle, however, such analog sticks can also be used for the transmission of simulated movements in joysticks and other operating elements.

[0005] The user's sense of touch is important here. It is desirable that the analog stick provides the same sense of touch in all ranges of motion, so that the analog stick always feels the same to the user in every state. This is currently solved by arranging a conventional steel spring under the analog stick. The steel spring is arranged centrally under the analog stick or concentrically with the center axis of the analog stick, so that the spring force always acts proportionally opposite to the deflection of the analog stick. As a result, the deflection of the analog stick always feels the same to the user over its entire range of motion.

[0006] In order to detect the movement of the analog rod, a potentiometer is used, which is arranged on the side of the axis of the analog rod. However, a relatively large minimum structural space is required to accommodate the analog rod and the potentiometer mounted on the side. In most cases, a pressing function of the analog rod is also added, that is, the user can press the analog rod downward in addition to the pivoting movement in order to use the analog rod as a button. For this purpose, an additional switch is required. However, this additional switch cannot be arranged below the analog rod because the spring is located there. Therefore, this additional switch must also be arranged on the side of the analog rod, which additionally increases the structural space.

[0007] Magnetic sensors represent a conceivable alternative for detecting the movement of the analog rod. They provide high-precision resolution of the movement of the analog rod and are also inexpensive to purchase. They are microelectronic components that have significantly smaller dimensions than potentiometers. However, magnetic field sensors produced in microelectronics are also very sensitive. The metal spring under the analog rod generates interfering magnetic fields that significantly impair the measurement.

[0008] It is therefore desirable to achieve highly precise movement recognition of the analog stick in the smallest possible installation space and at the same time to provide a haptic that is as uniform as possible over the entire range of movement of the analog stick. Summary of the invention

[0009] This object is achieved by a simulation stick according to claim 1. Further embodiments and advantageous aspects of the simulation stick are mentioned in the respective dependent claims.

[0010] The innovative simulation lever proposed here has an operating lever, which can be pivotally deflected by two mutually orthogonal rotation axes. The operating lever has an operating element for moving the operating lever on the first axial end section. On the opposite second axial end section, the operating lever has a plate-shaped operating element, which can move with the operating lever. The simulation lever also has a clamp preloaded by a spring element, wherein the plate-shaped operating element contacts the clamp and is designed to transfer the deflection of the operating lever to the clamp, whereby the clamp deflects against the spring force of the spring element. Here, the clamp is designed to reset the operating lever to its zero state by the spring force of the spring element in the non-operating state. Here, the spring element and the operating lever are spaced apart laterally from each other along the extension direction of the clamp. Thus, the structural space otherwise occupied by the spring in the conventional simulation lever below the simulation lever can be saved, thus generating new design possibilities. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Some embodiments are shown by way of example in the drawings and are explained below.

[0012] Figure 1 shows a schematic partially transparent side view of a simulation stick according to an embodiment,

[0013] Figure 2 shows a schematic partially transparent perspective view of a simulation stick according to an embodiment,

[0014] Figure 3A A schematic perspective view of a clamp and a plate-shaped actuating element for pivoting the clamp according to an exemplary embodiment is shown,

[0015] Figure 3B shows a schematic, partially transparent perspective view of a simulated lever with a clamp and a plate-shaped actuating element for pivoting the clamp according to an exemplary embodiment,

[0016] Figure 4A a schematic partially transparent perspective view showing a deflected simulation rod according to an embodiment,

[0017] Figure 4B shows a schematic partially transparent side view of a simulation stick deflected in a first direction according to an embodiment,

[0018] Figure 4C shows a schematic partially transparent side view of a simulation stick deflected in an opposite second direction according to an embodiment,

[0019] Figure 5A shows a schematic bottom view of a plate-shaped actuating element according to an exemplary embodiment,

[0020] Figure 5B shows a schematic bottom view of a plate-shaped actuating element according to a further exemplary embodiment,

[0021] Figures 6A-6E A schematic diagram of a simulation stick according to various embodiments is shown in side view, and

[0022] Figure 7 A schematic principle diagram of an analog stick with a magnetic sensor according to an embodiment is shown in a side view.

[0023] Hereinafter, embodiments are described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein elements having the same or similar functions are provided with the same reference numerals. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] The method steps depicted or described within the scope of the present disclosure may also be performed in a sequence different from that depicted or described. In addition, method steps involving a specific function of an apparatus may be replaced with that function of the apparatus, and vice versa.

[0025] Figure 1 A first conceivable embodiment of the innovative analog stick 100 is shown. For example, the analog stick 100 can be provided for use in a joystick or a game controller. Other applications in which analog sticks can be used are also included, such as device and machine control.

[0026] Figure 1 A partially transparent side view of the simulation lever 100 and the associated mechanical device and sensor system is shown. The simulation lever 100 has an operating lever 110. The operating lever 110 is pivotally supported by two rotation axes 120, 130 arranged orthogonally to each other. Therefore, the operating lever 110 can move forward, backward, left and right arbitrarily along a circular trajectory.

[0027] The operating rod 110 can be designed in the form of an elongated cylinder. On the first axial end section, the operating rod 110 can have an operating element 140 for moving the operating rod 110. For this reason, the operating element 140 is fixedly connected to the operating rod 110 so that the movement of the operating element 140 is transmitted to the operating rod 110. The operating element 140 can be, for example, a disc-shaped attachment that can be moved by fingers. Alternatively, the operating element 140 can also be a lever that a person can operate with his entire hand or a lever that a person can operate with his fingers. On its opposite second axial end section, the operating rod 110 can have a plate-shaped operating element 150 that can also move with the operating rod 110.

[0028] The clamp 160 is arranged below the operating lever 110. The clamp 160 is located opposite the operating element 150. The clamp 160 can be designed, for example, in the form of an elongated plate. The clamp 160 is preferably rigid or non-bending. The clamp 160 can have metal or plastic.

[0029] The clamp 160 may be rotatably supported. For example, the clamp 160 may be Figure 1 The clamp 160 is clamped on one side, as shown by way of example by means of a support 180 . The clamp 160 can be pivoted rotationally by means of the support 180 , as shown schematically by means of a double arrow 190 .

[0030] The clamp 160 can be preloaded by means of a spring element 170. The spring element 170 can be a metal helical spring, which can be designed in the form of a tension spring or a pressure spring. Alternatively, the spring element 170 can be a plastic spring, for example made of a soft, elastically deformable rubber. A plurality of spring elements 170, for example in the form of a helical spring array, can also be provided.

[0031] The plate-shaped operating element 150 is in contact with the clip 160. In addition, the plate-shaped operating element 150 is designed to transmit the deflection of the operating lever 110 to the clip 160, whereby the clip 160 is deflected against the spring force of the spring element 170. This means that the pivoting movement of the operating lever 110 can be converted into a rotational movement of the clip 160.

[0032] The clamp 160 is also designed to return the actuating lever 110 to its zero state in the non-actuated state by means of the spring force of the spring element 170. Figure 1 For this purpose, the spring element 170 presses the clamp 160 into its initial state, in which the clamp 160 acts on the plate-shaped actuating element 150, so that the actuating element 150 forces the operating lever 110 into its neutral initial state or zero state. Here, the plate-shaped actuating element 150 preferably lies flat on the clamp 160.

[0033] The innovative concept proposed here provides that the spring element 170 and the operating lever 110 are laterally spaced apart from each other, as seen in the extension direction of the clamp 160. In other words, the spring element 170 is offset transversely to the operating lever 110 or orthogonally to the operating lever 110 in the zero state of the operating lever. In this case, the projection of the operating lever 110 and the projection of the spring element 170 do not intersect, as seen in a top view.

[0034] The spring element 170 is therefore no longer arranged directly below the operating lever 110. As a result, construction space can be saved directly opposite or below the operating lever 110, which can be used for other purposes. Some advantageous application examples are explained in more detail below.

[0035] According to the innovative concept disclosed here, spring element 170 and operating rod 110 are spaced apart from one another so that when analog rod 100 is in its zero state, an imaginary extension of operating rod 110 does not extend through spring element 170 but rather extends externally past spring element 170 .

[0036] In the zero state of the simulation rod 100, the central axis 171 of the spring element 170 and the central axis 111 of the operating rod 110 extend parallel to each other and are laterally offset or spaced apart from each other (i.e. transversely or perpendicularly to the central axes 111, 171). Here, in the zero state of the simulation rod 100, the central axis 171 of the spring element 170 and the central axis 111 of the operating rod 110 extend perpendicularly to the two rotation axes 120, 130 of the operating rod 110, respectively.

[0037] The operating lever 110 and the spring element 170 are therefore arranged eccentrically. Due to the lateral offset, additional installation space is now created below the operating lever 110 , which can be used, for example, to accommodate a sensor system for detecting the movement of the operating lever 110 .

[0038] For example, a magnetic sensor may be used, which can distinguish the movement of the operating rod 110 with high accuracy. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As can be seen in the figure, the magnet 210 can be arranged, for example, on the second axial end section of the operating rod 110. The magnet 210 can be fixed on the operating rod 110 at the end or integrated into the operating rod 110. Integration into the operating rod 110 provides additional structural space saving. In both cases, the operating rod 110 and the magnet 210 can be arranged concentrically around a common central axis 111.

[0039] A magnetic sensor 220 can be arranged opposite the second axial end section of the operating rod 110, which is designed to detect the movement of the magnet 210 and thus also the movement of the operating rod 110. Therefore, the magnetic sensor 220 can be arranged directly below the operating rod 110. Since the spring element 170 is laterally spaced apart from the operating rod, the spring element 170 does not generate interfering magnetic fields that could impair the measurement.

[0040] The magnet 210 is preferably arranged on the operating rod 110 such that in both the zero state and the deflected state of the analog rod 100, the central axis of the magnet 210 extends through the magnetic sensor 220. Thus, the orientation or state of the operating rod 110 can be detected over its entire range of motion.

[0041] The magnetic sensor 220 can be designed as a 3D sensor. Therefore, the magnetic sensor 220 can detect the movement of the magnet 210 in the x, y and z directions. Therefore, the magnetic sensor 220 can detect the rotation, tilt and pivoting movement of the operating rod 110. But at the same time, the 3D magnetic sensor 220 can also detect the squeezing movement or vertical movement of the operating rod 110, thereby additionally realizing the button function. Therefore, a single magnetic sensor 220 may be sufficient to cover all the desired functions of the analog stick 100, for which, in a conventional analog stick, three different components (two potentiometers and a push button switch) are otherwise required.

[0042] In the exemplary embodiment depicted here, the clamp 160 is arranged between the magnet 210 and the magnetic sensor 220. It is advantageous here that the clamp 160 is made of a non-magnetic material, such as copper, aluminum, brass, etc., in order not to impair the measurement of the magnetic sensor 220. This arrangement is space-saving and at the same time the magnetic sensor 220 provides reliable and highly accurate values.

[0043] As in Figure 1 and Figure 2 As can be seen in the figure, the analog stick 100 can have a housing 230. The housing 230 can in turn be arranged on a substrate 240, for example a PCB (printed circuit board). In addition to the operating lever 110 and the operating element 140, all previously described components and elements can also be arranged or integrated in the housing 230. The operating lever 110 can extend from the housing 230 through an opening in the housing 230, so that the operating element 140 can be accessed from the outside.

[0044] The magnetic sensor 220 may be arranged on the substrate 240. Optionally, a support bracket 250 may be arranged on the substrate 240, the support bracket extending vertically upward (ie, in the direction of the housing cover) from the substrate 240 and accommodating the two rotation axes 120, 130. The support bracket 250 may have a slot-shaped opening through which the clamp 160 extends.

[0045] The support 180 in which the clamp 160 is rotatably supported may also be arranged on the base plate 240. In addition, the spring element 170 may also be optionally arranged on the base plate 240 and supported thereon. Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the embodiment depicted in , the spring element is a compression spring. However, a tension spring is also conceivable, which can be suspended on the housing cover, for example. Figures 6A to 6E Different embodiments are explained in more detail.

[0046] The spring element 170 can be fixed in its position by means of a fastening element 260. In this case, the fastening element can be, for example, a screw which is guided vertically through the spring element 170. For this purpose, the screw 260 can be introduced through an opening in the housing cover and screwed onto the opposite side in the base plate 240. The fastening element 260 can also extend through an opening in the clamp 160. In this way, the clamp 160 is protected against unintentional twisting or tilting.

[0047] Figure 3A and 3B The detailed view of the suspension of the operating lever 110 and the functional interaction of the plate-shaped actuating element 150 with the clamp 160 are shown. As already mentioned at the outset, the operating lever 110 can be pivotably mounted by means of two rotation axes 120, 130 arranged orthogonally to one another.

[0048] For example, the operating lever 110 may have a first rotation axis 130, which is rotatably supported in the support element 310. The support element 310 may also have a second rotation axis 120 extending orthogonally to the first rotation axis 130, by which the support element 310 and thus the operating lever 110 are rotatably supported in the aforementioned support bracket 250.

[0049] exist Figure 3B In the partially transparent side view depicted in FIG. 1 , the suspension 181 of the clamp 160 can also be seen, by means of which the clamp 160 is rotatably supported in the support part 180 ( Figure 1 and Figure 2 ). It can also be seen here that the clamp 160 can have a bend 320 or a curvature in order to produce a bulge, below which the spring element 170 can be arranged in a space-saving manner. Alternatively, the clamp 160 can have a depression, in which the spring element 170 can be arranged in a space-saving manner. This is suitable, for example, if the spring element 170 is designed in the form of a tension spring suspended from the housing cover.

[0050] exist Figure 3B3. The plate-shaped operating element 150 can also be seen in the figure. For example, the plate-shaped operating element 150 can be arranged in a recess in the support element 310. The plate-shaped operating element 150 is also coupled to the operating rod 110 in motion, that is, it moves together with the operating rod 110.

[0051] As previously referenced Figure 1 and Figure 2 As already explained, the clamp 160 is preloaded by means of the spring element 170 so that the clamp 160 forces the operating lever 110 into its zero state when not actuated. Here, the plate-shaped actuating element 150 can be located flat on the surface of the clamp 160, such as in Figure 3B As exemplarily shown in .

[0052] However, when the operating lever 110 moves, the plate-shaped operating element 150 moves with it and tilts or pivots accordingly. As a result, the flush contact surface of the plate-shaped operating element 150 in the zero state becomes a single contact point, i.e. the plate-shaped operating element 150 no longer contacts the clamp 160 all over, but only at a single contact point.

[0053] Figure 4A and 4B This is illustrated with the aid of the symbolically indicated contact point 330. In the state shown here, the operating lever 110 is rotated both about the first rotation axis 120 and about the second rotation axis 130. As a result, the plate-shaped actuating element 150 is tilted so that its outer periphery forms a single contact point 330 with the clamp 160. At this contact point 330, the plate-shaped actuating element 150 exerts a deflection force on the clamp 160 in order to deflect the clamp 160 against the spring force of the spring element 170. As a result, the clamp 160 is rotated about its support 180.

[0054] The contact point 330 changes with the state of the operating lever 110. That is, depending on the state of the operating lever 110, the plate-shaped operating element 150 contacts the clamp 160 at different clamping areas or clamping sections. However, as explained later, different deflection forces are required at different clamping sections to deflect the clamp 160. This leads to an uneven tactile feel when operating the analog lever 100, but the innovative concept provides a solution for this.

[0055] Figure 4C First, a further partially transparent side view of the analog stick 100 in the deflected state is shown, wherein the force vectors F1, ..., F4 and the length dimensions L1, ..., L4 drawn here should initially be ignored. Figure 4B In comparison, Figure 4CIn [the situation], the operating lever 110 deflects in opposite directions. Here, when the operating lever 110 moves, the plate-shaped actuating element 150 also tilts, such that the outer periphery of the plate-shaped actuating element 150 contacts the surface of the clip 160 at exactly a single contact point 330, and rotates and deflects the clip against the spring force of the spring element 170.

[0056] For the rotational deflection of the clip 160 about the support portion 180, a torque M is required. Due to the physical lever law (M = F x r), the shorter the lever arm, i.e., the shorter the distance r to the support portion 180 of the clip 160, the greater the deflection force transmitted to the clip 160 at the contact point 330, which is necessary to generate the torque M required to deflect the clip 160. In Figure 4C [the situation], the lever arm or the distance to the support portion 180 is represented by r1 and r2. That is, in order to deflect the clip 160, in the Figure 4B state shown, due to the shorter lever arm r1, a greater deflection force is required than in the state required in the Figure 4C [the situation] of the operating lever 110.

[0057] In Figure 4C the state shown, the contact point 330 of the plate-shaped actuating element 150 is spaced apart from the support portion 180 by a distance r2. In contrast, in Figure 4B the state shown, the contact point 330 of the plate-shaped actuating element 150 is spaced apart from the support portion 180 by a smaller distance r1 (r1 < r2). In order to generate the same torque M to deflect the clip 160, due to the smaller lever r1, a greater deflection force is required at the contact point 330 spaced apart by the distance r1 ( Figure 4B ) than at the contact point 330 spaced apart by the distance r2 ( Figure 4C ). This means that different deflection forces are required to deflect the clip 160 in different clamping regions or clamping sections.

[0058] However, this appears to the user as a non-uniform haptic feeling, i.e., the haptic feeling when operating the operating lever 110 changes with the corresponding state of the operating lever 110. However, it is desirable that the haptic feeling of the operating lever 110 is the same in all its states. The innovative analog lever 100 proposed here provides a solution for this, namely a solution with a new geometry of the plate-shaped actuating element 150.

[0059] Figure 5A shows possible design solutions of the plate-shaped actuating element 150, by means of which the aforementioned different deflection forces can be compensated, such that the haptic feeling of the operating lever 110 is substantially constant for the user in all states of the operating lever 110.

[0060] Figure 5AThe view of the underside of the plate-shaped actuating element 150 facing the clamp 160 is shown. Arranged opposite is the (not visible here) actuating lever 110. As can be seen, the plate-shaped actuating element 150 has a shape that is eccentric relative to the central axis 111 of the actuating lever 110. More precisely, the outer contour of the plate-shaped actuating element 150 has a shape that is eccentric relative to the central axis 111.

[0061] Figure 5B A further embodiment of a plate-shaped operating element 150 is shown. Here, too, the outer contour of the plate-shaped operating element 150 has an eccentric shape relative to the central axis 111 of the operating lever 110 schematically drawn here. Figure 5B In the case of Figure 5A In both cases, it can still be seen that the plate-shaped operating element 150 has essentially an oval shape.

[0062] exist Figure 5B The radial distances L2 and L4 of the outer contour of the plate-shaped operating element 150 are also drawn. As can be seen, the outer contour of the plate-shaped operating element 150 is at different distances from the central axis 111 of the operating rod 110 at different locations. On the left side visible in the image, the outer contour of the plate-shaped operating element 150 has a first radial distance L4. On the opposite right side visible in the image, the outer contour of the plate-shaped operating element 150 has a different second radial distance L2. In this example, L2>L4.

[0063] As will be explained in more detail later, the plate-shaped operating element 150 is arranged on the operating rod 110 so that an outer contour (L4) that is placed closer to the center axis 111 of the operating rod 110 points in the direction of the support portion 180 of the clamp 160, while a more distantly spaced outer contour (L2) of the plate-shaped operating element 150 points away from the support portion 180 of the clamp 160.

[0064] As mentioned at the outset, different deflection forces are required in different clamping areas or clamping sections in order to deflect the clamp 160 with one and the same torque M. This is in turn due to the different lever arms r1, r2. That is, in a clamping section that is located closer to the support 180 of the clamp 160, a greater force is required to deflect the clamp 160 than in a clamping section that is at a greater distance from the support 180 of the clamp 160 (larger lever arm).

[0065] Therefore, according to the innovative concept proposed herein, in a clamping area where a smaller deflection force is required to deflect the clamp 160, the radial distance L2 between the outer contour of the plate-shaped operating element 150 and the central axis 111 of the operating rod 110 is larger than in a clamping area where a relatively larger deflection force is required to deflect the clamp 160.

[0066] With respect to the pivot point or support portion 180 of the clamp 160, this means that the outer contour of the support portion 180 of the plate-shaped operating element 150 facing the clamp 160 has a smaller distance L4 from the center axis 111 of the operating lever 110 than the outer contour (L2) of the pivot point 180 of the plate-shaped operating element 150 facing away from the clamp 160.

[0067] In summary, it can be determined with respect to the geometrical shape of the outer contour of the plate-shaped operating element 150 that the closer the outer contour is positioned to the support 180 of the clip 160 or the smaller the lever arms r1, r2 at the corresponding contact point 330, the closer the outer contour is to the central axis 111 of the operating lever 110. This means conversely that the farther the outer contour is positioned from the support 180 of the clip 160 or the larger the lever arms r1, r2 at the corresponding contact point 330, the farther the outer contour is spaced from the central axis 111 of the operating lever 110.

[0068] You should then refer to Figure 4C This is explained, wherein the drawn force vectors F1, ..., F4 and radial distances L1, ..., L4 are now considered. It can be seen first that the user can apply an operating force F1, F3 to the operating element 140 in order to move the operating rod 110. The operating force F1, F3 is transmitted to the plate-shaped operating element 150 via the operating rod 110. At the contact point 330, the plate-shaped operating element 150 applies a deflection force F2, F4, which is related to the operating force F1, F3, to the clamp 160. The deflection force F2, F4 generates the above-mentioned torque in order to deflect the clamp 160 against the spring force of the spring element 170.

[0069] As mentioned at the outset, a substantially identical tactile feel is desirable for the user over the entire range of motion of the operating lever 110. This can be achieved by having the operating forces F1, F3 for moving the operating element 140 be substantially the same in all states of the operating lever. Figure 4C In FIG. 1 , it is symbolically shown that F1 = F3 . A symmetrical design of the operating element 140 is assumed here, that is, L1 = L3 .

[0070] The operating force F1, F3 applied by the user to the operating element 140 is now transmitted to the opposite plate-shaped operating element 150 via the operating rod 110. The plate-shaped operating element 150 then applies the deflection force F2, F4, which is related to the operating force F1, F3, to the clamp 160 at its contact point 330. Here, the lever law is also applied again, because the plate-shaped operating element 150 has a smaller circumference than the operating element 140, that is, L4<L3 and L2<L1. Therefore, a force transmission between the operating force F1, F3 and the deflection force F2, F4 occurs here.

[0071] In the operation lever 110 Figure 4C In the state shown, the operating force F1 exerted on the operating element 140 is transmitted via the operating lever 110 to the plate-shaped operating element 150 at the contact point 330 drawn here. At the contact point 330, the plate-shaped operating element 150 exerts a corresponding deflection force F2 on the clamp 160. According to the law of conservation of forces in lever steering, the following applies here: F1 x L1 = F2 x L2.

[0072] If the operating lever 110 is brought into the opposing state ( Figure 4B ), then the same applies to the operation lever 110 Figure 4B In the state shown, the operating force F3 exerted on the operating element 140 is transmitted to the plate-shaped operating element 150 via the operating rod 110. At the contact point 330, the plate-shaped operating element 150 exerts a corresponding deflection force F4 on the clamp 160. According to the law of conservation of forces in lever steering, the following applies here: F3 x L3 = F4 x L4.

[0073] If we now solve for F4, we get: F4 = (F3 x L3) / L4. That is, the shorter the lever L4, the greater the deflection force F4. The lever L4 corresponds to the outer contour of the plate-shaped operating element 150 and the central axis 111 of the operating lever 110. Figure 5B The radial distance L4.

[0074] Now, this can be done using the forces F1 and F2. If we solve for F2, we get: F2 = (F1 x L1) / L2. That is, the longer the lever L2, the smaller the deflection force F2. The lever L2 corresponds to the outer contour of the plate-shaped operating element 150 and the center axis 111 of the operating rod 110. Figure 5B The radial distance L2.

[0075] As in Figure 4CAs can be seen in , the radial distance L4 is smaller than the radial distance L2. Therefore, the deflection force F4 is greater than the deflection force F2. Therefore, the larger deflection force F4 can be transmitted to the clamp 160 in the clamping section with a shorter lever arm r (see r1), and the smaller deflection force F2 can be transmitted to the clamp 160 in the clamping section with a longer lever arm r (see r2). As a result, the clamp 160 can be deflected with the same torque M in all lever states. Therefore, the operating forces F1, F3 required for operating the operating element 140 are also the same in all lever states, which results in an unchanged tactile feel for the user.

[0076] Therefore, according to the innovation, by means of the specific shape of the plate-shaped operating element 150, different deflection forces F2 and F4 can be applied to the clamp 160 in different states of the operating lever 110, while conversely, the operating forces F1 and F3 required to operate the operating element 140 are the same in different lever states.

[0077] The shaping of the plate-shaped operating element 150 relates in particular to its outer contour. The closer the outer contour of the plate-shaped operating element 150 is to the rotation point 180 of the clamp 160, the smaller the radial distance L4 from the central axis 111 of the operating rod 110 is selected, because a greater deflection force F4 must be used there in order to generate the torque required there for deflecting the clamp 160.

[0078] The contact point 330, which is dependent on the state of the operating lever 110, therefore defines the force application point of the deflection forces F2, F4 applied to the clamp 160 for generating the torque M in order to deflect the clamp 160 against the spring force. However, as mentioned at the beginning, different deflection forces F2, F4 are required in different clamping sections in order to generate the torque M. Therefore, different deflection forces F2, F4 are also required at different positions of the contact point 330 in order to generate the torque M required at each location in order to deflect the clamp 160 against the spring force.

[0079] The innovative plate-shaped operating element 150 proposed here has a geometric shape, by means of which different absolute values ​​of the deflection forces F2 and F4 can be applied to the clamp 160 at different positions of the contact point 330, so that despite the different corresponding absolute values ​​of the deflection forces F2 and F4, the operating forces F1 and F3 required to move the operating lever 110 are respectively the same in different states of the operating lever 110.

[0080] Therefore, by means of the innovative plate-shaped operating element 150, different deflection forces F2, F4 can be transmitted to the clamp 160 at different contact points 330, so that the same torque for deflecting the clamp 160 is generated in different clamping areas. Therefore, the operating forces F1, F3 required for moving the operating lever are the same in all lever states, so that a uniform tactile sensation is generated for the user in all lever states.

[0081] In the embodiments described so far, the clamp 160 is rotatably mounted by means of a support 180, wherein the spring element 170 is arranged on the side of the clamp 160 opposite the support 180, and wherein the actuating lever 110 is positioned between the support 180 and the spring element 170. In addition, a compression spring is used to preload the clamp 160.

[0082] The following Figures 6A to 6E Further conceivable embodiments are shown in order to indicate possible arrangements of the support 180, the spring element 170, the clamp 160 and the actuating lever 110. These different embodiments can be used, for example, when there are structural space restrictions.

[0083] Fig. 6A An embodiment is shown in which, instead of the compression spring discussed so far, a tension spring is used as spring element 170. The tension spring 170 can be fixed, for example, to the housing 230 ( Figure 1 ) The inner side of the upper housing cover. The above functions of the remaining components of the innovative analog stick 100 are otherwise substantially the same, so reference is made to the above description in this regard.

[0084] Figure 6B A further embodiment of the innovative analog lever 100 is shown. Here, the clamp 160 is also again rotatably supported by the support 180. However, here, the spring element 170 is positioned between the support 180 and the operating lever 110. The compression spring 170 depicted here by way of example can be replaced by an oppositely arranged tension spring. The above-mentioned functions of the remaining components of the innovative analog lever 100 are otherwise substantially identical, so reference is made to the above description in this respect.

[0085] Figure 6C A further embodiment of the innovative analog lever 100 is shown, in which the clamp 160 is supported in a seesaw-like manner. The clamp 160 is again supported rotatably by a support 180, but in this case the support 180 is positioned between the spring element 170 and the operating lever 110. The compression spring 170 depicted here by way of example can be replaced by an oppositely arranged tension spring. The above-described functions of the remaining components of the innovative analog lever 100 are otherwise substantially identical, so reference is made to the above description in this regard.

[0086] Fig.6D A further embodiment of the inventive analog stick 100 is shown, in which the clamp 160 is supported in a seesaw-like manner. Here, the clamp 160 is again supported rotatably by means of a support 180, and the support 180 is again positioned between the spring element 170 and the operating lever 110. Here, the clamp 160 has a curved section 160A, which is away from the surface of the clamp 160 at a specific angle. For example, the clamp 160 can have the depicted L-shape. The spring element 170 can be fastened to this curved section 160A in order to preload the clamp 160. For example, the spring element 170 can be designed in the form of a tension spring, which can be fastened to the inner side ( Figure 1 ). The above-mentioned functions of the remaining components of the innovative analog stick 100 are otherwise substantially the same, so reference is made to the above description in this respect.

[0087] Fig. 6E Another embodiment of the innovative analog stick 100 is shown. Fig.6D Compared to the embodiment shown, the spring element 170 is designed in the form of a compression spring, which can act on the bent section 160A of the clamp 160. In other respects, this embodiment is different from Fig.6D The above-mentioned functions of the remaining components of the inventive analog stick 100 are also substantially the same in other respects, so reference is made to the above description in this respect.

[0088] Figure 7 A further embodiment of the innovative analog stick 100 is shown. Here, the magnet 210 is arranged on the plate-shaped operating element 150 so that the magnet 210 can move together with the operating stick 110. A magnetic sensor 220 is arranged laterally adjacent to the plate-shaped operating element 150, which is designed to detect the movement of the magnet 210 and thus also the movement of the operating stick 110. The magnet 210 and the magnetic sensor 220 are arranged here so that they face the same side or surface of the clamp 160 (here: the upper side of the clamp 160).

[0089] exist Figure 7 The embodiment depicted in FIG. 1 represents a previously referenced embodiment of the magnet 210 and the magnetic sensor 220. Figure 1 and Figure 2 Alternative to the described arrangement: This embodiment enables a reduction in the vertical installation space.

[0090] The above-described embodiments represent only illustrations of the principles of the innovative concepts described herein. It is to be understood that modifications and variations of the arrangements and details described herein will be apparent to other persons skilled in the art. It is therefore intended that the concepts described herein are limited only by the scope of protection of the following patent claims and not by the specific details presented by way of the description and explanation of the embodiments.

[0091] Although some aspects are described in conjunction with an apparatus, it is to be understood that these aspects also represent a description of a corresponding method, so that a block or structural element of an apparatus should also be understood as a corresponding method step or a feature of a method step. Similarly, aspects described in conjunction with a method step or as a method step also represent a description of a corresponding block or detail or feature of a corresponding apparatus.

Claims

1. An analog stick (100) for a joystick or game controller, wherein: The simulation rod (100) has the following features: An operating lever (110) is pivotally supported by means of two rotation axes (120, 130) arranged orthogonally to each other, The operating rod (110) has an operating element (140) for moving the operating rod (110) on a first axial end section, and the operating rod (110) has a plate-shaped operating element (150) on an opposite second axial end section, the plate-shaped operating element being movable together with the operating rod (110). A clamp (160) preloaded by means of a spring element (170), wherein the plate-shaped actuating element (150) is in contact with the clamp (160) and is designed to transmit a deflection of the actuating lever (110) to the clamp (160), whereby the clamp (160) is deflected against the spring force of the spring element (170), The clamp (160) is designed to return the operating lever (110) to its zero state in an unoperated state by means of the spring force of the spring element (170), and The spring element (170) and the operating lever (100) are laterally spaced apart from each other when viewed along the extension direction of the clamp (160).

2. The simulation stick (100) according to claim 1, in, The spring element (170) and the operating rod (110) are spaced apart from one another so that, when the analog rod (100) is in its zero state, an imaginary extension of the operating rod (110) does not extend through the spring element (170), but rather extends externally past the spring element (170).

3. The simulation rod (100) according to claim 1 or 2, in, In the zero state of the simulation rod (100), the central axis (171) of the spring element (170) and the central axis (111) of the operating rod (110) extend parallel to each other and are laterally offset from each other.

4. The simulation stick (100) according to claim 3, in, In the zero state of the simulation rod (100), the central axis (171) of the spring element (170) and the central axis (111) of the operating rod (110) extend perpendicularly to the two rotation axes (120, 130) of the operating rod (110).

5. The simulation stick (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, A magnet (210) is arranged on a second axial end section of the operating rod (110), the magnet being movable together with the operating rod (110), and A magnetic sensor (220) is arranged opposite a second axial end section of the operating rod (110), the magnetic sensor being designed to detect a movement of the magnet (210) and thus also a movement of the operating rod (110).

6. The simulation stick (100) according to claim 5, in, The magnet (210) is integrated into the operating rod (110), and the operating rod (110) and the magnet (210) are arranged concentrically around a common central axis (111).

7. The simulation rod (100) according to claim 5 or 6, in, In both the zero state and the deflected state of the analog rod (100), the central axis of the magnet (210) extends through the magnetic sensor (220).

8. The simulation rod (100) according to any one of claims 5 to 7, in, The clamp (160) is arranged between the magnet (210) and the magnetic sensor (220).

9. The simulation rod (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, in, A magnet (210) is arranged on the plate-shaped operating element (150), the magnet being movable together with the operating rod (110), and A magnetic sensor (220) is arranged laterally adjacent to the plate-shaped operating element (150), which is designed to detect the movement of the magnet (210) and thus also the movement of the operating lever (110).

10. The simulation stick (100) according to claim 9, in, The magnet (210) and the magnetic sensor (220) are arranged such that the magnet and the magnetic sensor face the same side of the clip (160).

11. The simulation stick (100) according to any one of claims 5 to 10, in, The magnetic sensor (220) is designed as a magnetic field sensor for three-dimensional measurement and is configured to detect the movement of the operating rod (110) in all three spatial directions.

12. The simulation stick (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The clip (160) is made of non-magnetic material.

13. The simulation stick (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The clamp (160) is rotatably supported by means of a support portion (180), wherein the spring element (170) is arranged on a side of the clamp (160) opposite the support portion (180), and wherein the operating lever (110) is positioned between the support portion (180) and the spring element (170).

14. The simulation stick (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, in, The clamp (160) is rotatably supported by a support portion (180), and Wherein, the spring element (170) is positioned between the support portion (180) and the operating rod (110).

15. The simulation stick (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, in, The clamp (160) is rotatably supported by a support portion (180), and Wherein, the support portion (180) is positioned between the spring element (170) and the operating rod (110).

16. The simulation stick (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The plate-shaped operating element (150) is designed to apply deflection forces F2, F4 of different magnitudes to the clamp (160) in different states of the operating lever (110), while conversely, the operating forces F1, F3 required for operating the operating element (140) are the same in different lever states.

17. The simulation stick (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The operating lever (110) can be moved by applying an operating force F1, F3 to the operating element (140), wherein the clamp (160) extends through below the operating lever (110), and wherein the operating force F1, F3 is transmitted to the plate-shaped operating element (150) via the operating lever (110), and The plate-shaped operating element (150) contacts the clamp (160) via a contact point (330) in the deflected state of the operating rod (110), and the plate-shaped operating element (150) applies deflection forces F2 and F4 related to the operating forces F1 and F3 to the clamp (160) at the contact point (330), thereby generating a torque M that deflects the clamp (160) against the spring force of the spring element (170).

18. The simulation stick (100) according to claim 17, in, The contact point (330) in relation to the state of the operating lever (110) defines the point of force application of the deflection forces F2, F4 applied to the clamp (160) for generating a torque M, wherein different deflection forces F2, F4 are respectively required at different positions of the contact point (330) in order to generate the torque M required to deflect the clamp (160) at the respective positions against the spring force, and The plate-shaped operating element (150) has a geometric shape, by means of which, at different positions of the contact point (330), different absolute values ​​of the deflection forces F2, F4 are applied to the clamp (160), wherein despite the different absolute values ​​of the deflection forces F2, F4, in different states of the operating lever (110), the operating forces F1, F3 required to move the operating lever (110) are respectively the same.

19. The simulation stick (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The plate-shaped actuating element (150) has an eccentric outer contour.

20. The simulation stick (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The outer contour of the plate-shaped actuating element (150) has a substantially oval shape.

21. The simulation stick (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The outer contour of the plate-shaped operating element (150) is at different distances from the central axis (111) of the operating rod (110) at different locations, and In which, in a clamping area where a smaller deflection force F2, F4 is required to deflect the clamp (160), the radial distance L2 between the outer contour of the plate-shaped operating element (150) and the center axis (111) of the operating rod (110) is larger than in a clamping area where a relatively larger deflection force F2, F4 is required to deflect the clamp (160).

22. The simulation stick (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The outer contour of the plate-shaped operating element (150) is at different distances from the central axis (111) of the operating rod (110) at different locations, and In which, compared with the outer contour of the rotation point (180) of the plate-shaped operating element (150) facing away from the clamp (160), the outer contour of the support portion (180) of the plate-shaped operating element (150) facing the clamp (160) has a smaller radial distance L4 from the center axis (111) of the operating rod (110).

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