ANALOGUE STICK WITH AN OFF-CENTRALLY POSITIONED SPRING BEARING

Abstract

The innovative concept revealed here relates to an analog stick (100) with a pivotally mounted control lever (110) which has a control element (140) at a first axial end section and a plate-shaped actuating element (150) at an opposing second axial end section. The plate-shaped actuating element (150) is in contact with a spring-loaded clip (160) and is designed to transmit a deflection of the control lever (110) to the clip (160), thereby deflecting the clip (160) against the spring force of the spring element (170). The clamp (160) is designed to return the operating lever (110) to its zero position in an unactuated state by means of the spring force of the spring element (170), wherein the spring element (170) and the operating lever (110) are spaced apart laterally from each other in the extension direction of the clamp (160).

Description

[0001] The innovative concept described herein concerns an analog stick for a joystick or game controller with magnetic field-based motion detection.

[0002] Today, joysticks are used for control in many applications. Joysticks are particularly well-known in connection with controlling computer games. Nowadays, they are also used to control industrial machines and aircraft.

[0003] Such joysticks are described, for example, in the documents DE 10 2012 004 116 A1, DE 10 2007 007 464 A1 and US 4 101 863 A.

[0004] Initially, digital joysticks were the most common. These allowed four directions (left / right - up / down) to be digitally mapped, similar to a directional pad. However, with the introduction of three-dimensional worlds in computer games, the control requirements also became more complex. This led to the development of analog controllers or joysticks, which allowed movements to be mapped much more precisely.

[0005] In the consumer market, these analog control devices have become particularly popular with the introduction of analog sticks in game controllers. Analog sticks are usually installed in addition to a directional pad and are designed for thumb operation. In principle, such analog sticks can also be used for analog motion transmission in joysticks and other control elements.

[0006] What's important here is the feel for the user. It's desirable for the analog stick to provide the same feel across all ranges of motion, so that the analog stick always feels the same to the user in every position. Today, this is achieved by placing a conventional steel spring underneath the analog stick. This steel spring is positioned centrally beneath the analog stick, or concentrically to the central axis of the analog stick, so that the spring force always counteracts any deflection of the analog stick proportionally. This means that the deflection of the analog stick always feels the same to the user across its entire range of motion.

[0007] To detect the movement of the analog stick, potentiometers are used which are attached to the sides of the analog stick axes. However, this requires a relatively large minimum installation space to accommodate the analog stick and the side-mounted potentiometers. In addition, the analog stick is usually also equipped with a push function, meaning that the user can press the analog stick down in addition to the swivel movement to use it as a push button. This requires an additional switch. However, this cannot be placed underneath the analog stick because this is where the spring is located. This switch therefore also has to be attached to the side of the analog stick, which further increases the installation space.

[0008] A possible alternative to analog stick movement detection is magnetic sensors. These provide highly precise resolution of the analog stick's movement and are also inexpensive. These are microelectronic components that are significantly smaller than potentiometers. However, magnetic field sensors manufactured using microelectronics are also very sensitive. The metal spring beneath the analog stick generates magnetic interference fields that significantly impair the measurements.

[0009] It would therefore be desirable to realize highly precise motion detection of analog sticks in the smallest possible space, while at the same time providing a largely uniform haptic across the entire range of motion of the analog stick.

[0010] This object is achieved by an analog stick according to claim 1. Further embodiments and advantageous aspects of this analog stick are mentioned in the respective dependent patent claims.

[0011] The innovative analog stick presented here has an operating lever that can be pivoted and deflected by means of two orthogonally arranged axes of rotation. The operating lever has an operating element for moving the operating lever at a first axial end section. At an opposite second axial end section, the operating lever has a plate-shaped actuating element that can be moved together with the operating lever. The analog stick also has a clip preloaded by a spring element, wherein the plate-shaped actuating element is in contact with the clip and is designed to transmit a deflection of the operating lever to the clip, whereby the clip is deflected counter to the spring force of the spring element. The clip is designed to return the operating lever to its zero position in an unactuated state by means of the spring force of the spring element.The spring element and the control lever are spaced laterally apart, as seen in the direction of the bracket's extension. This saves the space below the analog stick, which is otherwise occupied by the spring in conventional analog sticks, opening up new design possibilities.

[0012] Some exemplary embodiments are shown in the drawings and are explained below. They show: Fig. 1 a schematic partially transparent side view of an analog stick according to an embodiment, Fig. 2 a schematic partially transparent perspective view of an analog stick according to an embodiment, Fig. 3A is a schematic perspective view of a clasp and a plate-shaped actuating element for deflecting the clasp according to an embodiment, Fig. 3B is a schematic, partially transparent perspective view of an analog stick with a clip and a plate-shaped actuating element for deflecting the clip according to an embodiment, Fig. 4A is a schematic partially transparent perspective view of a deflected analog stick according to an embodiment, Fig. 4B is a schematic partially transparent side view of an analog stick deflected in a first direction according to an embodiment, Fig. 4C is a schematic partially transparent side view of an analog stick deflected in an opposite second direction according to an embodiment, Fig. 5A is a schematic bottom view of a plate-shaped actuating element according to an embodiment, Fig. 5B is a schematic bottom view of a plate-shaped actuating element according to a further embodiment, Fig. 6A-6E are schematic diagrams of an analog stick in a side view according to different embodiments, and Fig. 7 a schematic diagram of an analog stick with a magnetic sensor in a side view according to an embodiment.

[0013] In the following, embodiments are described in more detail with reference to the figures, wherein elements with the same or similar function are provided with the same reference numerals.

[0014] Method steps illustrated or described within the scope of the present disclosure may also be performed in a different order than that illustrated or described. Furthermore, method steps relating to a specific feature of a device are interchangeable with that same feature of the device, and vice versa.

[0015] Fig. 1 shows a first conceivable embodiment of an innovative analog stick 100. The analog stick 100 can, for example, be intended for use in a joystick or game controller. Other applications in which analog sticks can be used, such as device and machine controls, are also included.

[0016] Fig. Figure 1 shows a partially transparent side view of the analog stick 100, including the associated mechanics and sensors. The analog stick 100 has an operating lever 110. The operating lever 110 is pivotally mounted by means of two orthogonally arranged rotation axes 120, 130. The operating lever 110 can thus be moved forward, backward, left, and right along a circular path.

[0017] The operating lever 110 can be designed in the form of an elongated cylinder. At a first axial end section, the operating lever 110 can have an operating element 140 for moving the operating lever 110. For this purpose, the operating element 140 is fixedly connected to the operating lever 110, so that a movement of the operating element 140 is transmitted to the operating lever 110. The operating element 140 can, for example, be a plate-shaped attachment that can be moved with a finger. Alternatively, the operating element 140 can also be a joystick that can be operated with the whole hand or a stick that can be operated with the fingers. At its opposite second axial end section, the operating lever 110 can have a plate-shaped actuating element 150, which can also be moved together with the operating lever 110.

[0018] A clip 160 is arranged below the operating lever 110. The clip 160 is located opposite the actuating element 150. The clip 160 can, for example, be designed in the form of an elongated, flat plate. The clip 160 is preferably rigid or bend-resistant. The clip 160 can be made of metal or plastic.

[0019] The clasp 160 can be rotatably mounted. For example, the clasp 160 can, as shown in Fig. 1, as shown by way of example using the bearing 180. By means of the bearing 180, the clasp 160 can be deflected rotationally, as schematically indicated by the double arrow 190.

[0020] The clasp 160 can be preloaded by a spring element 170. The spring element 170 can be a metallic coil spring, which can be configured in the form of a tension or compression spring. Alternatively, the spring element 170 can be a plastic spring, e.g., made of a soft, elastically deformable rubber. Multiple spring elements 170 can also be provided, for example, in the form of an array of coil springs.

[0021] The plate-shaped actuating element 150 is in contact with the clasp 160. Furthermore, the plate-shaped actuating element 150 is configured to transmit a deflection of the operating lever 110 to the clasp 160, thereby deflecting the clasp 160 against the spring force of the spring element 170. This means that a pivoting movement of the operating lever 110 can be translated into a rotational movement of the clasp 160.

[0022] The clasp 160 is also designed to return the operating lever 110 to its zero position in an unactuated state by means of the spring force of the spring element 170. The zero position is in Fig. 1. For this purpose, the spring element 170 presses the clasp 160 into its initial position, in which the clasp 160 acts on the plate-shaped actuating element 150 in such a way that the actuating element 150 forces the operating lever 110 into its neutral initial position or zero position. The plate-shaped actuating element 150 preferably rests flatly on the clasp 160.

[0023] The innovative concept presented here provides that the spring element 170 and the operating lever 110 are laterally spaced from each other, as viewed in the extension direction of the clasp 160. In other words, the spring element 170 is offset laterally relative to the operating lever 110, or orthogonally relative to the operating lever 110 in its zero position. Viewed from above, a projection of the operating lever 110 and a projection of the spring element 170 would not intersect.

[0024] The spring element 170 is therefore no longer mounted directly below the operating lever 110. This saves installation space 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.

[0025] According to the innovative concept disclosed herein, the spring element 170 and the operating lever 110 are spaced apart from one another in such a way that an imaginary extension of the operating lever 110 does not pass through the spring element 170, but rather runs outside the spring element 170 when the analog stick 100 is in its zero position.

[0026] In the zero position of the analog stick 100, the central axis 171 of the spring element 170 and the central axis 111 of the operating lever 110 run parallel to each other and are offset or spaced from each other laterally (i.e., laterally or perpendicularly to the central axes 111, 171). In the zero position of the analog stick 100, both the central axis 171 of the spring element 170 and the central axis 111 of the operating lever 110 run perpendicular to the two rotation axes 120, 130 of the operating lever 110.

[0027] The operating lever 110 and the spring element 170 are thus arranged off-center. The lateral offset creates additional space 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.

[0028] For example, a magnetic sensor can be used that can resolve the movement of the operating lever 110 with high precision. As in Fig. 1 and in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, a magnet 210, for example, can be arranged at the second axial end portion of the operating lever 110. The magnet 210 can be fixed to the front of the operating lever 110 or integrated into the operating lever 110. Integration into the operating lever 110 creates additional space savings. In both cases, the operating lever 110 and the magnet 210 can be arranged concentrically around a common central axis 111.

[0029] A magnetic sensor 220 can be arranged opposite the second axial end portion of the operating lever 110, which is designed to detect a movement of the magnet 210, and thus also a movement of the operating lever 110. The magnetic sensor 220 can therefore be arranged directly below the operating lever 110. Since the spring element 170 is laterally spaced therefrom, the spring element 170 does not generate any magnetic interference fields that could impair the measurement.

[0030] The magnet 210 is preferably arranged on the operating lever 110 such that a central axis of the magnet 210 extends through the magnetic sensor 220, both in the neutral position and in a deflected position of the analog stick 100. This allows the orientation or position of the operating lever 110 to be detected across its entire range of motion.

[0031] The magnetic sensor 220 can be configured as a 3D sensor. Accordingly, the magnetic sensor 220 can detect a movement of the magnet 210 in the x, y, and z directions. Thus, the magnetic sensor 220 can detect the rotational, tilting, and pivoting movements of the operating lever 110. At the same time, the 3D magnetic sensor 220 can also detect a pressing movement or vertical movement of the operating lever 110, which can additionally implement a push-button functionality. Thus, a single magnetic sensor 220 can be sufficient to cover all desired functionalities of the analog stick 100, which would otherwise require three different components (two potentiometers and a push-button switch) in conventional analog sticks.

[0032] In the embodiment shown here, the clip 160 is arranged between the magnet 210 and the magnetic sensor 220. It is advantageous if the clip 160 is made of a non-magnetic material, such as copper, aluminum, brass, etc., so as not to impair the measurements of the magnetic sensor 220. Such an arrangement saves space, and at the same time, the magnetic sensor 220 provides reliable and highly precise values.

[0033] As in the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, the analog stick 100 can have a housing 230. The housing 230, in turn, can be arranged on a substrate 240, such as a PCB (printed circuit board). All components and elements described so far, with the exception of the operating lever 110 and the operating element 140, can be arranged or integrated in the housing 230. The operating lever 110 can extend out of the housing 230 through an opening in the housing 230, so that the operating element 140 is accessible from the outside.

[0034] The magnetic sensor 220 can be arranged on the substrate 240. Optionally, a bearing block 250 can be arranged on the substrate 240, extending vertically upward from the substrate 240 (i.e., toward the housing cover) and accommodating the two rotation axes 120, 130. The bearing block 250 can have a slot-shaped opening through which the clip 160 extends.

[0035] The bearing 180, in which the clip 160 is rotatably mounted, can also be arranged on the substrate 240. In addition, the spring element 170 can optionally also be arranged on the substrate 240 and supported on the same. In the Fig. 1 and Fig. The embodiment shown in Figure 2 is a compression spring. However, a tension spring would also be conceivable, which could, for example, be suspended from the housing cover. Various embodiments are described below with reference to the Fig. 6A to 6E are explained in more detail.

[0036] The spring element 170 can be fixed in position using a fastening means 260. This can be, for example, a screw that is passed vertically through the spring element 170. For this purpose, the screw 260 can be inserted through an opening in the housing cover and screwed into the substrate 240 on the opposite side. The fastening means 260 can also extend through an opening in the clip 160. This secures the clip 160 against unintentional twisting or tilting.

[0037] The Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B show detailed views of the suspension of the operating lever 110 and the functional interaction of the plate-shaped actuating element 150 with the clasp 160. As already mentioned at the beginning, the operating lever 110 can be pivotally mounted by means of two rotation axes 120, 130 arranged orthogonally to one another.

[0038] The operating lever 110 can, for example, have a first rotational axis 130 that is rotatably mounted in a bearing element 310. The bearing element 310, in turn, can have a second rotational axis 120 that runs orthogonally to the first rotational axis 130 and by means of which the bearing element 310, and thus the operating lever 110, is rotatably mounted in the previously described bearing block 250.

[0039] In the Fig. 3B, the suspension 181 of the clip 160 can also be seen, by means of which the clip 160 can be rotated in the bearing 180 ( Fig. 1 and Fig. 2). It can also be seen here that the clip 160 can have a kink 320 or a curvature to create a raised portion under which the spring element 170 can be arranged in a space-saving manner. Alternatively, the clip 160 can have a recess in which the spring element 170 can be arranged in a space-saving manner. This would be appropriate, for example, if the spring element 170 were designed in the form of a tension spring suspended from the housing cover.

[0040] In Fig. 3B also shows the plate-shaped actuating element 150. The plate-shaped actuating element 150 can, for example, be arranged in a recess in the bearing element 310. The plate-shaped actuating element 150 is also motion-coupled to the operating lever 110, ie, it moves with the operating lever 110.

[0041] As previously mentioned with reference to the Fig. 1 and Fig. As already explained in Figure 2, the clasp 160 is pre-tensioned by means of the spring element 170, so that the clasp 160 forces the operating lever 110 into its neutral position when not actuated. The plate-shaped actuating element 150 can rest flatly on the surface of the clasp 160, as is exemplified in Fig. 3B is shown.

[0042] However, when the operating lever 110 is moved, the plate-shaped actuating element 150 moves with it and tilts or pivots accordingly. As a result, the flush contact surface of the plate-shaped actuating element 150, which is present in the zero position, transforms into a single contact point, i.e., the plate-shaped actuating element 150 no longer touches the clasp 160 over its entire surface, but only at a single contact point.

[0043] The Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B illustrate this using the symbolically represented contact point 330. In the position shown here, the operating lever 110 is rotated about both the first rotational axis 120 and the second rotational axis 130. This tilts the plate-shaped actuating element 150 so that its outer circumference forms a single contact point 330 with the clasp 160. At this contact point 330, the plate-shaped actuating element 150 exerts a deflection force on the clasp 160 in order to deflect the clasp 160 against the spring force of the spring element 170. This causes the clasp 160 to rotate about its bearing 180.

[0044] The contact point 330 varies with the position of the operating lever 110. This means that, depending on the position of the operating lever 110, the plate-shaped actuating element 150 comes into contact with the clip 160 at different clip areas or clip sections. As explained below, however, different deflection forces are required at different clip sections to deflect the clip 160. This leads to an uneven feel when operating the analog stick 100, for which the innovative concept provides a solution.

[0045] Fig. Figure 4C initially shows another partially transparent side view of the analog stick 100 in a deflected state, whereby the force vectors F1, ..., F4 and the length specifications L1, ..., L4 shown here are initially ignored. In Fig. 4C is the operating lever 110, compared to Fig. 4B, deflected in the opposite direction. Here, too, the plate-shaped actuating element 150 tilts upon movement of the operating lever 110, so that the outer circumference of the plate-shaped actuating element 150 is in contact with the surface of the clasp 160 at exactly one single contact point 330 and deflects it rotationally against the spring force of the spring element 170.

[0046] A torque M is required for the rotational deflection of the clip 160 around the bearing 180. Due to the physical lever law (M = F × r), the deflection force transmitted to the clip 160 at the contact point 330, which is required to generate the torque M required to deflect the clip 160, is greater the shorter the lever arm, ie the distance r from the bearing 180 of the clip 160. In Fig. 4C, the lever arms or distances to the bearing 180 are marked with r1 and r2. This means that to deflect the clip 160, Fig. 4B, a greater deflection force is required due to the shorter lever arm r1 than in the position shown in Fig. 4C required position of the operating lever 110.

[0047] In the Fig. 4C, the contact point 330 of the plate-shaped actuating element 150 is at a distance r2 from the bearing 180. In the position shown in Fig. 4B, the contact point 330 of the plate-shaped actuating element 150 is at a smaller distance r1 (r1 < r2) from the bearing 180. In order to generate the same torque M for deflecting the clasp 160, the contact point 330 ( Fig. 4B) due to the smaller lever r1, a greater deflection force is required than at the contact point 330 at a distance r2 ( Fig. 4C). This means that different deflection forces are required in different areas or sections of the clasp to deflect the clasp 160.

[0048] However, this results in an uneven feel for the user, i.e., the feel when operating the operating lever 110 varies depending on the respective position of the operating lever 110. However, it is desirable for the feel of the operating lever 110 to be consistent in all its positions. The innovative analog stick 100 presented here provides a solution to this problem, namely with a novel geometric design of the plate-shaped actuating element 150.

[0049] Fig. 5A shows an embodiment of the plate-shaped actuating element 150, with which the previously described different deflection forces can be compensated according to the invention, so that the haptics of the operating lever 110 are largely constant for the user in all positions of the operating lever 110.

[0050] Fig. Figure 5A shows a view of the underside of the plate-shaped actuating element 150 facing the clasp 160. The operating lever 110 (not visible here) is arranged opposite. As can be seen, the plate-shaped actuating element 150 has an eccentric shape relative to the central axis 111 of the operating lever 110. More precisely, the outer contour of the plate-shaped actuating element 150 has an eccentric shape relative to the central axis 111.

[0051] Fig. Figure 5B shows a further embodiment of the plate-shaped actuating element 150. Here, too, the outer contour of the plate-shaped actuating element 150 has an eccentric shape with respect to the central axis 111 of the operating lever 110, which is shown schematically here. The eccentric outer contour is in Fig. 5B is not as pronounced as in Fig. 5A. Nevertheless, in both cases it can be seen that the plate-shaped actuating element 150 has an essentially egg shape.

[0052] In Fig. 5B also shows the radial distances L2, L4 of the outer contour of the plate-shaped actuating element 150. As can be seen, the outer contour of the plate-shaped actuating element 150 is at different distances from the central axis 111 of the operating lever 110 at different locations. On the left side visible in the image, the outer contour of the plate-shaped actuating element 150 has a first radial distance L4. On the opposite right side visible in the image, the outer contour of the plate-shaped actuating element 150 has a different second radial distance L2. In this example, L2 > L4.

[0053] As will be explained in more detail later, the plate-shaped actuating element 150 is arranged on the operating lever 110 such that the outer contour (L4) located closer to the central axis 111 of the operating lever 110 points in the direction of the bearing 180 of the clasp 160, while the outer contour (L2) of the plate-shaped actuating element 150, which is further away, is directed away from the bearing 180 of the clasp 160.

[0054] As mentioned at the beginning, different deflection forces are required in different clasp areas or clasp sections to deflect the clasp 160 with one and the same torque M. This, in turn, is due to the different lever arms r1, r2. This means that at a clasp section positioned closer to the bearing 180 of the clasp 160, a greater force is required to deflect the clasp 160 than at a clasp section that is a greater distance (larger lever arm) from the bearing 180 of the clasp 160.

[0055] According to the innovative concept presented here, the radial distance L2 between the outer contour of the plate-shaped actuating element 150 and the central axis 111 of the operating lever 110 is therefore greater in the clasp areas in which a lower deflection force is required to deflect the clasp 160 than in clasp areas in which a relatively greater deflection force is required to deflect the clasp 160.

[0056] In relation to the pivot point or the bearing 180 of the clasp 160, this means that the outer contour of the plate-shaped actuating element 150 facing the bearing 180 of the clasp 160 has a smaller distance L4 from the central axis 111 of the operating lever 110 than the outer contour (L2) of the plate-shaped actuating element 150 facing away from the pivot point 180 of the clasp 160.

[0057] In summary, with regard to the geometric shape of the outer contour of the plate-shaped actuating element 150, it can be stated that the outer contour is the closer to the central axis 111 of the operating lever 110, the closer it is positioned to the bearing 180 of the clasp 160, or the smaller the lever arm r1, r2 is at the respective contact point 330. Conversely, this means that the outer contour is the further away from the central axis 111 of the operating lever 110, the further it is positioned from the bearing 180 of the clasp 160, or the larger the lever arm r1, r2 is at the respective contact point 330.

[0058] An explanation for this will be given below with reference to Fig. 4C, where the drawn force vectors F1, ..., F4 and the radial distances L1, ..., L4 are considered here. First, it can be seen that the user can exert an operating force F1, F3 on the operating element 140 in order to move the operating lever 110. This operating force F1, F3 is transmitted via the operating lever 110 to the plate-shaped actuating element 150. At the contact point 330, the plate-shaped actuating element 150 exerts a deflection force F2, F4 on the clasp 160 that depends on the operating force F1, F3. The deflection force F2, F4 generates the aforementioned torque in order to deflect the clasp 160 against the spring force of the spring element 170.

[0059] As mentioned above, a substantially identical haptic experience for the user is desired across the entire range of motion of the operating lever 110. This can be achieved by ensuring that the operating forces F1, F3 for moving the operating element 140 are substantially the same in all positions of the operating lever. Fig. 4C, this is symbolized by F1 = F3. This assumes a symmetrical design of the control element 140, ie, L1 = L3.

[0060] The operating force F1, F3 exerted by the user on the operating element 140 is now transferred via the operating lever 110 to the opposite plate-shaped actuating element 150. The plate-shaped actuating element 150 then exerts a deflection force F2, F4 on the clasp 160 at its contact point 330, which deflection force is dependent on the operating force F1, F3. Here, too, the lever law applies again, because the plate-shaped actuating element 150 has a smaller circumference than the operating element 140, i.e., L4 < L3 and L2 < L1. Thus, a force transmission takes place between the operating force F1, F3 and the deflection force F2, F4.

[0061] In the Fig. In the position of the operating lever 110 shown in Figure 4C, the operating force F1 exerted on the operating element 140 is transmitted via the operating lever 110 to the plate-shaped actuating element 150 at the contact point 330 shown here. At the contact point 330, the plate-shaped actuating element 150 then exerts a corresponding deflection force F2 on the clasp 160. According to the law of conservation of force for lever deflections, the following applies: F1 × L1 = F2 × L2.

[0062] When the operating lever 110 is moved to the opposite position ( Fig. 4B), then it is the same, ie in the Fig. In the position of the operating lever 110 shown in Figure 4B, the operating force F3 exerted on the operating element 140 is transmitted via the operating lever 110 to the plate-shaped actuating element 150. At the contact point 330, the plate-shaped actuating element 150 then exerts a corresponding deflection force F4 on the clasp 160. According to the law of conservation of force for lever deflections, the following applies: F3 × L3 = 42 × L4.

[0063] If we now solve for F4, we get: F4 = (F3 × L3) / L4. This means that the shorter the lever L4, the greater the deflection force F4. The lever L4 corresponds to the one previously defined with reference to Fig. 5B described radial distance L4 of the outer contour of the plate-shaped actuating element 150 to the central axis 111 of the operating lever 110.

[0064] The same can now be done with the forces F1, F2. If we solve for F2, we get: F2 = (F1 × L1) / L2. This means that the longer the lever L2, the smaller the deflection force F2. The lever L2 corresponds to the previously determined with reference to Fig. 5B described radial distance L2 of the outer contour of the plate-shaped actuating element 150 to the central axis 111 of the operating lever 110.

[0065] As in Fig. 4C, the radial distance L4 is smaller than the radial distance L2. Accordingly, the deflection force F4 is greater than the deflection force F2. The larger deflection force F4 can accordingly be transmitted to the clasp 160 at the clasp sections where the lever arm r is shorter (see r1), and the smaller deflection force F2 can in turn be transmitted to the clasp 160 at the clasp sections where the lever arm r is longer (see r2). As a result, the clasp 160 can be deflected with the same torque M in all lever positions. Accordingly, the operating forces F1, F3 required to operate the operating element 140 are the same in all lever positions, which results in a consistent haptic experience for the user.

[0066] According to the invention, by means of the specific shape of the plate-shaped actuating element 150, deflection forces F2, F4 of different magnitudes are exerted on the clasp 160 in different positions of the operating lever 110, whereas the operating forces F1, F3 required to actuate the operating element 140 are of the same magnitude in different lever positions.

[0067] The inventive design of the plate-shaped actuating element 150 relates in particular to its outer contour. The closer the outer contour of the plate-shaped actuating element 150 is to the pivot point 180 of the clasp 160, the smaller the radial distance L4 to the central axis 111 of the operating lever 110 should be, since a higher deflection force F4 must be applied there to generate the torque required to deflect the clasp 160.

[0068] The contact point 330, which depends on the position of the operating lever 110, thus defines a force application point for the deflection force F2, F4 exerted on the clasp 160 to generate the torque M to deflect the clasp 160 against the spring force. As mentioned at the beginning, however, to generate the torque M, different deflection forces F2, F4 of different magnitudes are required at different clasp sections. Accordingly, different deflection forces F2, F4 of different magnitudes are also required at different positions of the contact point 330 in order to generate the torque M required there in each case to deflect the clasp 160 against the spring force.

[0069] The plate-shaped actuating element 150 according to the invention presented here has a geometric shape by means of which different amounts of the deflection force F2, F4 can be exerted on the clasp 160 at the different positions of the contact point 330, so that despite the respective different amounts of the deflection force F2, F4, the operating force F1, F3 required to move the operating lever 110 is always the same in different positions of the operating lever 110.

[0070] Thus, with the plate-shaped actuating element 150 according to the invention, different deflection forces F2, F4 can be transmitted to the clasp 160 at different contact points 330 in order to generate an equal torque for deflecting the clasp 160 in different clasp areas. As a result, the operating forces F1, F3 required to move the operating lever are equal in all lever positions, resulting in a uniform haptic experience for the user in all lever positions.

[0071] In the embodiments described so far, the clasp 160 was rotatably mounted by means of a bearing 180, with the spring element 170 being arranged on a side of the clasp 160 opposite the bearing 180, and with the operating lever 110 being positioned between the bearing 180 and the spring element 170. In addition, a compression spring was used to preload the clasp 160.

[0072] The following Fig. 6A to 6E show further conceivable embodiments to illustrate possible arrangements of the bearing 180, the spring element 170, the clip 160, and the operating lever 110. These different embodiments can be used, for example, when installation space limitations exist.

[0073] Fig. 6A shows an embodiment in which a tension spring is used as the spring element 170 instead of the previously discussed compression spring. The tension spring 170 can, for example, be mounted on the inside of the upper housing cover of the housing 230 ( Fig. 1). The functionality of the remaining components of the innovative analog stick 100 described above is otherwise largely identical, which is why reference is made to the above description in this regard.

[0074] Fig. 6B shows another embodiment of an innovative analog stick 100. Here, too, the clip 160 is again rotatably mounted by means of the bearing 180. However, here the spring element 170 is positioned between the bearing 180 and the operating lever 110. The compression spring 170 shown here as an example can be replaced by a tension spring arranged opposite. The functionality of the remaining components of the innovative analog stick 100 described above is otherwise largely identical, which is why reference is made to the above description in this regard.

[0075] Fig. 6C shows another embodiment of an innovative analog stick 100, wherein the clip 160 is mounted in a rocker-like manner. Here, the clip 160 is again rotatably mounted by means of the bearing 180, but in this case, the bearing 180 is positioned between the spring element 170 and the operating lever 110. The compression spring 170 shown here as an example can be replaced by a tension spring arranged opposite. The functionality of the remaining components of the innovative analog stick 100 described above is otherwise largely identical, which is why reference is made to the above description in this regard.

[0076] Fig. 6D shows a further embodiment of an innovative analog stick 100, wherein the clip 160 is mounted in a rocker-like manner. The clip 160 is again rotatably mounted here by means of the bearing 180, and the bearing 180 is also positioned between the spring element 170 and the operating lever 110. The clip 160 here has an angled section 160A that protrudes at a certain angle from the surface of the clip 160. For example, the clip 160 can have an L-shape as shown. The spring element 170 can be attached to this angled section 160A in order to preload the clip 160. For example, the spring element 170 can be designed in the form of a tension spring that is attached to an inner side of the housing 230 ( Fig. 1). The functionality of the remaining components of the innovative analog stick 100 described above is otherwise largely identical, which is why reference is made to the above description in this regard.

[0077] Fig. 6E shows another embodiment of an innovative analog stick 100. Compared to the Fig. 6D, however, the spring element 170 is designed in the form of a compression spring that can engage the angled portion 160A of the clasp 160. Otherwise, this embodiment is identical to Fig. 6D. The functionality of the other components of the innovative analog stick 100 described above is otherwise largely identical, which is why reference is made to the above description in this regard.

[0078] Fig. 7 shows another embodiment of an innovative analog stick 100. Here, a magnet 210 is arranged on the plate-shaped actuating element 150, so that the magnet 210 can be moved together with the operating lever 110. A magnetic sensor 220 is arranged laterally next to the plate-shaped actuating element 150 and is designed to detect a movement of the magnet 210, and thus also a movement of the operating lever 110. The magnet 210 and the magnetic sensor 220 are arranged such that they face the same side or surface of the clip 160 (here: the top side of the clip 160).

[0079] The Fig. The embodiment shown in Figure 7 represents an alternative to the previously described embodiments with reference to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, the arrangements of the magnet 210 and the magnetic sensor 220 are shown. This embodiment can enable a reduction in the vertical installation space.

[0080] The above-described embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles of the innovative concept described herein. It is understood that modifications and variations of the arrangements and details described herein will be apparent to others skilled in the art. Therefore, it is intended that the concept described herein be limited only by the scope of the following claims and not by the specific details presented in the description and explanation of the embodiments herein.

[0081] Although some aspects have been described in connection with a device, it should be understood that these aspects also represent a description of the corresponding method, so that a block or component of a device can also be understood as a corresponding method step or as a feature of a method step. Analogously, aspects described in connection with or as a method step also represent a description of a corresponding block, detail, or feature of a corresponding device.

Claims

[1] Analog stick (100) for a joystick or game controller, the analog stick (100) having the following features: an operating lever (110) which is pivotally mounted by means of two orthogonally arranged rotation axes (120, 130), wherein the operating lever (110) has an operating element (140) for moving the operating lever (110) at a first axial end portion, and wherein the operating lever (110) has a plate-shaped actuating element (150) at an opposite second axial end portion, which is movable together with the operating lever (110), a clip (160) prestressed by means of a spring element (170), wherein the plate-shaped actuating element (150) is in contact with the clip (160) and is designed to transmit a 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), wherein the clasp (160) is designed to return the operating lever (110) to its zero position in an unactuated state by means of the spring force of the spring element (170), wherein the spring element (170) and the operating lever (110) are laterally spaced from each other, as seen in the direction of extension of the clasp (160), and wherein the plate-shaped actuating element (150) has a geometric shape which allows different deflection forces F2, F4 to be exerted on the clasp (160) in different positions of the operating lever (110), whereas the operating forces F1, F3 required to actuate the operating element (140) are of the same size in different lever positions. [2] Analog stick (100) according to claim 1, wherein the spring element (170) and the operating lever (110) are spaced apart from one another such that an imaginary extension of the operating lever (110) does not pass through the spring element (170), but rather runs outside the spring element (170) when the analog stick (100) is in its zero position. [3] Analog stick (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, in the zero position of the analog stick (100), the central axis (171) of the spring element (170) and the central axis (111) of the operating lever (110) run parallel to each other and are laterally offset from each other. [4] Analog stick (100) according to claim 3, wherein, in the zero position of the analog stick (100), the central axis (171) of the spring element (170) and the central axis (111) of the operating lever (110) each run perpendicular to the two axes of rotation (120, 130) of the operating lever (110). [5] Analog stick (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a magnet (210) is arranged on the second axial end portion of the operating lever (110), which magnet is movable together with the operating lever (110), and wherein a magnetic sensor (220) is arranged opposite the second axial end portion of the operating lever (110), which is designed to detect a movement of the magnet (210), and thus also a movement of the operating lever (110). [6] Analog stick (100) according to claim 5, wherein the magnet (210) is integrated in the operating lever (110), and wherein the operating lever (110) and the magnet (210) are arranged concentrically around a common central axis (111). [7] Analog stick (100) according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the central axis of the magnet (210) passes through the magnetic sensor (220) both in the zero position and in a deflected position of the analog stick (100). [8] Analog stick (100) according to one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the clip (160) is arranged between the magnet (210) and the magnetic sensor (220). [9] Analog stick (100) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a magnet (210) is arranged on the plate-shaped actuating element (150), which magnet is movable together with the operating lever (110), and wherein a magnetic sensor (220) is arranged laterally next to the plate-shaped actuating element (150), which is designed to detect a movement of the magnet (210), and thus also a movement of the operating lever (110). [10] The analog stick (100) of claim 9, wherein the magnet (210) and the magnetic sensor (220) are arranged to face the same side of the clasp (160). [11] Analog stick (100) according to one of claims 5 to 10, wherein the magnetic sensor (220) is designed as a three-dimensional measuring magnetic field sensor which is configured to detect the movement of the operating lever (110) in all three spatial directions. [12] Analog stick (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the clip (160) is made of a non-magnetic material. [13] Analog stick (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the clasp (160) is rotatably mounted by means of a bearing (180), wherein the spring element (170) is arranged on a side of the clasp (160) opposite the bearing (180), and wherein the operating lever (110) is positioned between the bearing (180) and the spring element (170). [14] Analog stick (100) according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the clasp (160) is rotatably mounted by means of a bearing (180), and wherein the spring element (170) is positioned between the bearing (180) and the operating lever (110). [15] Analog stick (100) according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the clasp (160) is rotatably mounted by means of a bearing (180), and wherein the bearing (180) is positioned between the spring element (170) and the operating lever (110). [16] Analog stick (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the operating lever (110) can be moved by exerting an operating force F1, F3 on the operating element (140), wherein the clasp (160) extends under the operating lever (110), and wherein the operating force F1, F3 is transmitted via the operating lever (110) to the plate-shaped actuating element (150), and wherein the plate-shaped actuating element (150) is in contact with the clasp (160) via a contact point (330) in a deflected position of the operating lever (110), and wherein the plate-shaped actuating element (150) exerts a deflection force F2, F4 on the clasp (160) at the contact point (330), which deflection force is dependent on the operating force F1, F3, whereby a torque M is generated which deflects the clasp (160) against the spring force of the spring element (170). [17] Analog stick (100) according to claim 16, wherein the contact point (330) dependent on the position of the operating lever (110) defines a force application point of the deflection force F2, F4 exerted on the clasp (160) for generating the torque M, wherein at different positions of the contact point (330) different deflection forces F2, F4 are required in order to generate the torque M required there in each case for deflecting the clasp (160) against the spring force, and wherein the plate-shaped actuating element (150) has a geometric shape by means of which different amounts of the deflection force F2, F4 are exerted on the clasp (160) at the different positions of the contact point (330), wherein despite the respective different amounts of the deflection force F2, F4, the operating force F1, F3 required to move the operating lever (110) is always the same in different positions of the operating lever (110). [18] Analog stick (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the plate-shaped actuating element (150) has an eccentric outer contour. [19] Analog stick (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer contour of the plate-shaped actuating element (150) has a substantially egg shape. [20] Analog stick (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer contour of the plate-shaped actuating element (150) is at different distances from the central axis (111) of the operating lever (110) at different locations, and wherein in clasp regions in which a lower deflection force F2, F4 is required to deflect the clasp (160), the radial distance L2 between the outer contour of the plate-shaped actuating element (150) and the central axis (111) of the operating lever (110) is greater than in clasp regions in which a relatively greater deflection force F2, F4 is required to deflect the clasp (160). [21] Analog stick (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer contour of the plate-shaped actuating element (150) is at different distances from the central axis (111) of the operating lever (110) at different points, and wherein the outer contour of the plate-shaped actuating element (150) facing the bearing (180) of the clip (160) has a smaller radial distance L4 from the central axis (111) of the operating lever (110) than the outer contour of the plate-shaped actuating element (150) facing away from the pivot point (180) of the clip (160).

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