Multidirectional input device, control handle, and manipulation device
Patent Information
- Application Number
- TW114118352
- Authority / Receiving Office
- TW · TW
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2025-03-25
- Filing Date
- 2025-05-15
- Publication Date
- 2026-10-01
- Estimated Expiration
- 2045-05-14
AI Technical Summary
Current multi-directional input devices have complex structures, poor consistency in operation feel, and high production costs due to numerous parts.
A multi-directional input device with a simplified structure featuring a housing, operating body, and reset mechanism, utilizing interconnected abutment edges and a rocker arm element to provide consistent tactile feedback and reduce parts, incorporating an elastic element and pressure plate for reset functionality.
The design ensures consistent tactile feedback and ergonomic operation, reduces production costs by simplifying the structure, and enhances operational precision and efficiency in applications like drone control and gaming.
Smart Images

Figure TWG2TA001078142_001 
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Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of input device technology, specifically to a multi-directional input device, a control handle having the multi-directional input device, and a control device having the control handle. Prior Technology
[0002] The demand for multi-directional input devices is increasing in the market, particularly in control applications such as game controllers and drones. These devices are typically designed for flexible operation in both the X and Y directions, enabling precise control of the flight direction of devices like game controllers or drones. Current multi-directional input devices utilize various structural components to achieve this functionality. By incorporating specific spring configurations within the input device, users can achieve output in different directions as the joystick is rotated. When the operator rotates the joystick, the springs in the X and Y directions switch between each other, producing a noticeable tactile feedback and a change in the direction of the rebound force, thus enhancing the user experience.
[0003] However, this type of multi-directional input device has a complex structure, many parts, poor consistency in operation feel, and high production cost. Summary of the Invention
[0004] To address the shortcomings of the prior art, it is necessary to provide a multi-directional input device with better tactile consistency. Furthermore, embodiments of this application also provide a control handle including the multi-directional input device and a control device including the control handle.
[0005] This application provides a multi-directional input device, including a housing, an operating body, and a reset mechanism. The housing has a cavity, and an opening communicating with the cavity is also provided on the housing. At least a portion of the operating body is movably disposed within the cavity. The operating body includes an operating main body and an abutment portion located around the periphery of the operating main body. The operating main body includes a first end that extends out of the cavity from the opening. The abutment portion includes a bottom surface facing away from the first end, and the bottom surface includes at least two interconnected abutment edges. The reset mechanism is disposed within the cavity and elastically abuts against the bottom surface. The reset mechanism is configured to selectively elastically abut against one of the abutment edges when at least a portion of the operating body is moved within the cavity.
[0006] In some embodiments of this application, the abutting edge includes four interconnected abutting edges, which are parallel to each other and surround to form a bottom surface. The outer wall of the abutting part is provided with multiple operating surfaces, which are perpendicular to or inclined to the bottom surface. The operating surfaces and the bottom surface are connected at the abutting edge.
[0007] In some other embodiments of this application, a plurality of protrusions extend from the bottom surface toward the side away from the first end, and an abutting edge is formed between the outer periphery of two adjacent protrusions.
[0008] In some embodiments of this application, the multi-directional input device further includes a rocker arm element, which is rotatably disposed on the housing. The operating body is drivenly connected to the rocker arm element, and the rocker arm element is configured to rotate relative to the housing when the operating body is rocked. The rocker arm element includes a first rocker arm and a second rocker arm whose rotation axes are perpendicular to each other. The first rocker arm and the second rocker arm are rotatably connected to the housing and stacked. When the abutting edge abuts against the reset mechanism, the operating body is configured to drive the first rocker arm or the second rocker arm to rotate relative to the housing.
[0009] In some embodiments of this application, at least one of the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm includes a rocker arm body and a rotating part disposed at both ends of the rocker arm body. The housing is provided with a first groove, and the rotating part is rotatably disposed in the first groove. The rocker arm body is provided with a sliding groove, at least part of which extends in the same direction as the axis. A first end passes through the sliding groove and is slidably disposed in the sliding groove. The first end is configured to drive the second rocker arm to rotate relative to the housing when it moves along the sliding groove of the first rocker arm. The first end is also configured to drive the first rocker arm to rotate relative to the housing when it moves along the sliding groove of the second rocker arm.
[0010] In some embodiments of this application, the reset mechanism includes an elastic element and a pressure plate. The elastic element is disposed within the cavity, and the pressure plate is disposed at one end of the elastic element near the opening. The elastic element holds the pressure plate against the bottom surface, and the abutting edge is configured to abut against the surface of the pressure plate facing the opening.
[0011] In some embodiments of this application, a stepped surface is also provided inside the housing. The stepped surface is located on the side of the pressure plate facing the opening. The projections between the pressure plate and the stepped surface at least partially overlap. The stepped surface is configured to abut against the pressure plate.
[0012] In some embodiments of this application, the operating body further includes a second end, which is disposed through the bottom surface. The pressure plate is provided with a through hole for the second end to pass through. A push switch is provided on the bottom wall of the housing. The second end is configured to trigger the push switch when the operating body is pressed.
[0013] This application also provides a control handle, including the aforementioned multi-directional input device.
[0014] This application also provides a control device, including the aforementioned control handle.
[0015] In this application, the abutment portion includes a bottom surface facing away from the first end, and the bottom surface includes at least two interconnected abutment edges. When the operating body is tilted, one set of abutment edges can press against the reset mechanism. When the operator changes direction, the reset mechanism re-abuts against the bottom surface, and then switches from the bottom surface to the other interconnected abutment edge. This design retains a distinct tactile feedback while allowing the user to experience consistent operating feel in different directions through the change in the direction of the reset mechanism's rebound force. On the other hand, since only one reset mechanism is involved, the product structure can be simplified, effectively reducing the number of complex parts and thus lowering production costs. Simple Explanation of the Diagram
[0016] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the multi-directional input device of this application.
[0017] Figure 2 is an exploded view of the multi-directional input device shown in Figure 1.
[0018] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the multi-directional input device shown in Figure 1 after the cover is assembled.
[0019] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the multi-directional input device shown in Figure 3 along the cutting line AA.
[0020] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the multi-directional input device shown in Figure 3 in another state.
[0021] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the operating body of the multi-directional input device shown in Figure 1.
[0022] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the operator body of the multi-directional input device shown in Figure 1.
[0023] Figure 8 is a module architecture diagram of the control handle of this application.
[0024] Figure 9 is a module architecture diagram of the control device of this application. Implementation
[0025] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments.
[0026] It should be noted that when a component is said to be "fixed to" another component, it can be directly on the other component or there may be an intervening component. When a component is said to be "connected to" another component, it can be directly connected to the other component or there may be an intervening component. When a component is said to be "set on" another component, it can be directly set on the other component or there may be an intervening component.
[0027] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application.
[0028] To further illustrate the technical means and effects adopted by this application in achieving its intended purpose, the following detailed description of this application is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and preferred embodiments.
[0029] Please refer to Figures 1 to 4. This application embodiment provides a multi-directional input device 10, including a housing 100, an operating body 20, and a reset mechanism 300. The housing 100 has a cavity 101, and an opening 104 communicating with the cavity 101 is also provided on the housing 100. At least a portion of the operating body 20 is swayably disposed within the cavity 101. The operating body 20 includes an operating main body 200 and an abutment portion 210 disposed around the periphery of the operating main body 200. The operating main body 200 includes a first end 201, which extends out of the cavity 101 from the opening 104. The abutment portion 210 includes a bottom surface 212 facing away from the first end 201, and the bottom surface 212 includes at least two interconnected abutment edges 213. The reset mechanism 300 is disposed in the cavity 101 and elastically abuts against the bottom surface 212. The reset mechanism 300 is configured to selectively elastically abut against one of the abutting edges 213 when at least part of the operating body 20 is rocked in the cavity 101.
[0030] The multi-directional input device 10 provided in this application embodiment includes a bottom surface 212 of the abutment portion 210 facing away from the first end 201. The bottom surface 212 includes at least two interconnected abutment edges 213. When the operating body 20 is tilted, one set of abutment edges 213 can press against the reset mechanism 300. When the operator changes direction, the reset mechanism 300 abuts against the bottom surface 212 again, and then switches from the bottom surface 212 to the other interconnected abutment edge 213. This design retains a distinct tactile feedback while allowing the user to experience consistent operating feel in different directions through the change in the direction of the rebound force of the reset mechanism 300. On the other hand, since only one set of reset mechanism 300 is involved, the product structure can be simplified, the number of complex parts can be effectively reduced, and thus production costs can be reduced.
[0031] Please refer to Figure 6. In one embodiment of this application, the abutment edge 213 includes four interconnected abutment edges 213. The four abutment edges 213 are parallel to each other and form a bottom surface 212. Each of the four abutment edges 213 includes two abutment edges 213 arranged opposite each other in a first direction X, and two abutment edges 213 arranged opposite each other in a second direction Y, with the first direction X and the second direction Y being perpendicular to each other. The outer wall of the abutment portion 210 is provided with multiple operating surfaces 220, which are perpendicular to or at an angle to the bottom surface 212. The operating surfaces 220 and the bottom surface 212 are connected at the abutment edges 213. Optionally, a transition surface 240 may be provided between adjacent operating surfaces 220. When used in a game controller or in drone flight operation, the first direction X controls forward and backward movement, and the second direction Y controls left and right movement. The bottom surface 212 may be quadrilateral. By designing the operating surface 220, a consistent tactile feel is provided, simplifying the product structure and reducing the number of complex parts while retaining a distinct tactile feedback. This design enhances the smoothness of operation and reduces accidental touches and discomfort during use. The switching between the operating surface 220 and the transition surface 240 provides the operator with more pronounced tactile feedback, improving perception and control in each direction. This feedback mechanism allows the operator to better understand the effect of their input, leading to more precise operation. The well-arranged operating surfaces 220 and the transition surfaces 240 between adjacent operating surfaces 220 allow the operator to maintain a more natural and comfortable hand posture, reducing fatigue that may occur during prolonged use. The smooth transition between the operating surfaces 220 in different directions prevents the operator from feeling abrupt or uncomfortable when switching between them, thus reducing the possibility of accidental operation and enhancing the smoothness of control. Furthermore, these transition surfaces 240 provide additional tactile feedback, allowing users to instantly perceive the sensation of input from different directions during operation, enhancing the naturalness and comfort of the interaction. The combined effect of this design ultimately makes the multi-directional input device 10 more ergonomic, improves operator efficiency, and enhances the operability and adaptability of the entire system, especially in applications requiring precise control, such as drone control, gaming, or various remote control devices.
[0032] In other embodiments, the number of abutment edges 213 may be more than four. For example, six abutment edges 213 may be provided. When there are six abutment edges 213, the bottom surface 212 surrounded by the multiple operating surfaces 220 is hexagonal, that is, the number of operating surfaces 220 is six. More preferably, when there are eight abutment edges 213, the bottom surface 212 surrounded by the multiple operating surfaces 220 is octagonal, that is, the number of operating surfaces 220 is eight.
[0033] Referring also to Figure 7, in another embodiment of this application, a plurality of protrusions 214 extend from the bottom surface 212 toward the side away from the first end 201, and an abutment edge 213 is formed between the outer peripheries of two adjacent protrusions 214. Optionally, four protrusions 214 may be provided, and the peripheries of the four protrusions 214 can be connected to form a quadrilateral. Optionally, six or eight protrusions 214 may also be provided. When there are six protrusions 214, a hexagon can be formed. When there are eight protrusions 214, an octagon can be formed.
[0034] Referring to Figures 2 and 3, in one embodiment of this application, the multi-directional input device 10 further includes a rocker arm element 400, which is rotatably mounted on the housing 100. The operating body 20 is drivenly connected to the rocker arm element 400, and the rocker arm element 400 is configured to rotate relative to the housing 100 when the operating body 20 is rocked. This design not only improves the operational flexibility of the multi-directional input device 10 but also achieves a more intuitive control method. Through the movement of the rocker arm element 400, the operator can more clearly feel the linkage between the input action and the actual feedback.
[0035] Referring to Figures 4 and 5, in some embodiments of this application, the rocker arm element 400 includes a first rocker arm 401 and a second rocker arm 402 whose rotation axes are perpendicular to each other. The first rocker arm 401 and the second rocker arm 402 are rotatably connected to the housing 100 and stacked. When the abutment edge 213 abuts against the reset mechanism 300, the operating body 20 is configured to drive the first rocker arm 401 or the second rocker arm 402 to rotate relative to the housing 100. When the operator inputs in the first direction X, they can obtain more direct mechanical feedback, enhancing the stability of operation and the clarity of signal transmission. When the abutment edge 213 abuts against the reset mechanism 300, the operating body 20 drives the second rocker arm 402 to rotate relative to the housing 100. This independent yet organically combined rotational design between the first rocker arm 401 and the second rocker arm 402 makes the response of the operating body 200 more sensitive and the user experience smoother when inputting in two different directions. Moreover, this design ensures coordination during multi-directional movement, avoiding potential conflicts or stuttering during operation. This improves efficiency in applications involving fine adjustments or rapid responses. Operators maintain a good sense of control whether performing simple operations or complex tasks, thereby increasing work efficiency and meeting personalized needs. Overall, the rocker arm element 400 makes multi-directional input more natural, enhancing the human-machine interface experience.
[0036] Referring to Figure 2, in one embodiment of this application, at least one of the first rocker arm 401 and the second rocker arm 402 includes a rocker arm body 410 and a rotating portion 411 disposed at both ends of the rocker arm body 410. The housing 100 is provided with a first groove 105, and the rotating portion 411 is rotatably disposed within the first groove 105. The design of the first rocker arm 401 and the second rocker arm 402 combines the rocker arm body 410 and the rotating portion 411, providing flexibility and functionality for the operation of the multi-directional input device 10. This structural design allows the rocker arm to rotate freely relative to the housing 100, thereby realizing multi-directional input control. The C-shaped design of the rocker arm body 410 gives it good strength and stability, enabling it to withstand stress and effectively transmit force in various operations. The rotating portion 411 is rotatably disposed in the first groove 105 of the housing 100, allowing the rocker arm body 410 to rotate flexibly during operation. The first groove 105 provided in the housing 100 positions the first rocker arm 401 or the second rocker arm 402, so that the first rocker arm 401 or the second rocker arm 402 remains stable when rotating, avoiding displacement or unnecessary wear caused by external force or misoperation.
[0037] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, in some embodiments of this application, the rocker arm body 410 is provided with a groove 412, at least part of which extends in the same direction as the axis. A first end 201 passes through the groove 412 and is slidably disposed within it. The first end 201 is configured to, when moving along the groove 412 of the first rocker arm 401, drive the second rocker arm 402 to rotate relative to the housing 100. The first end 201 is also configured to, when moving along the groove 412 of the second rocker arm 402, drive the first rocker arm 401 to rotate relative to the housing 100. By providing the groove 412, the dynamic interaction between the first rocker arm 401 and the second rocker arm 402 is enhanced, allowing the operator to simultaneously control the movement of both the first and second rocker arms 401 with simple displacement, improving operational flexibility and efficiency. In practical applications, the operator can quickly switch between two control methods to meet various operational needs, thereby improving the user experience and the application range of the multi-directional input device 10. At the same time, this design also ensures that the rocker arm rotates more smoothly and accurately, which helps to improve the overall operating precision and response speed.
[0038] Referring to Figure 1, in some embodiments of this application, the multi-directional input device 10 further includes two rotation detection components 500 located on adjacent sides of the housing 100. A third end 4110 extends from the rotating part 411 along its axial direction away from the housing 100, passing through the rotation detection components 500. The rotation detection components 500 are configured to detect the rotational movement of the third end 4110. When the rotating part 411 rotates due to the shaking of the operating body 20, the rotation detection components 500 can detect whether the third end 4110 rotates counterclockwise or clockwise, thereby determining whether it is moving forward / backward or left / right. The adjacent and perpendicular positional relationship of the two rotation detection components 500 allows them to independently detect the rotational movement of the third end 4110. This configuration allows the multi-directional input device 10 to acquire rotational data in multiple directions, providing more comprehensive input feedback and control capabilities. The third end 4110 of the rotating part 411 passes through the rotation detection components 500, enabling it to respond instantly to user operations. This direct connection method ensures that the multi-directional input device 10 can accurately capture every movement when the operator is rotating, thereby improving the sensitivity and accuracy of the input.
[0039] Referring to Figure 1, in some embodiments of this application, the axis of rotation of the first rocker arm 401 and the axis of rotation of the second rocker arm 402 are located on the same horizontal plane. Setting the axes of rotation of the first rocker arm 401 and the second rocker arm 402 on the same horizontal plane helps maintain the balance of the multi-directional input device 10 when force is applied, reducing tilting or instability caused by angular differences. This design improves the overall stability of the multi-directional input device 10, ensuring accurate and reliable operation even under harsh operating conditions. This design reduces the structural complexity of the multi-directional input device 10 in the vertical direction, helping to save space and making the entire multi-directional input device 10 more compact and easier to integrate. This is particularly important for layouts, handheld devices, or compact platforms in practical applications.
[0040] Referring to Figures 3 and 4, in some embodiments of this application, the multidirectional input device 10 further includes a cover 600, on which a snap-fit groove 601 is provided, and on the housing 100 a snap-fit portion 106 is provided. The snap-fit portion 106 is configured to insert into the snap-fit groove 601 so that the housing 100 and the cover 600 are connected. The overlapping projection between the snap-fit groove 601 on the cover 600 and the snap-fit portion 106 on the housing 100 ensures that the cover 600 can be firmly fixed to the housing 100 during connection, preventing loosening due to vibration or operation, thereby improving the overall stability and durability of the multidirectional input device 10. The partial overlap of the snap-fit groove 601 and the snap-fit portion 106 in projection ensures precise alignment during connection. This design allows the cover 600 to be correctly positioned in the appropriate location on the housing 100.
[0041] Referring to Figure 3, in some embodiments of this application, the cover 600 is provided with a second groove 602, the projection of which at least partially overlaps with the projection of the first groove 105. The cover 600 and the housing 100 are connected to each other so that the rotating part 411 is fixed to the housing 100 by means of the first groove 105 and the second groove 602. By setting the overlapping projection between the second groove 602 of the cover 600 and the first groove 105 of the housing 100, the rotating part 411 can be more firmly fixed to the housing 100. A through hole 3021 is formed between the first groove 105 and the second groove 602, and the rotating part 411 is provided corresponding to the through hole 3021, ensuring the precise positioning of the rotating part 411 in the housing 100.
[0042] Please refer to Figures 4, 5, and 6. In one embodiment of this application, the reset mechanism 300 includes an elastic element 301 and a pressure plate 302. The elastic element 301 is disposed within the cavity 101, and the pressure plate 302 is disposed at the end of the elastic element 301 near the opening 104. The elastic element 301 holds the pressure plate 302 against the bottom surface 212, and the abutting edge 213 is configured to abut against the surface of the pressure plate 302 facing the opening 104. By configuring the elastic element 301 and the pressure plate 302 to cooperate with each other, the pressure plate 302 always abuts against the bottom surface 212 when no shaking operation is performed. When a shaking operation is performed, the abutting edge 213 abuts against the pressure plate 302 to maintain a tactile feedback. When reset is required, the elastic element 301 can promptly spring back the operating body 20, so that it abuts against the bottom surface 212 again. The elastic element 301 not only provides the necessary restoring force, allowing the operating body 200 to reset when no external force is applied, but also provides effective resistance and feedback during input. When the user operates, any abutting edge 213 presses against the pressure plate 302, and the resulting force is transmitted to the elastic element 301, causing it to elastically deform, thus providing the operator with immediate tactile feedback. In addition, the overall design of the reset mechanism 300 simplifies the structure of the multi-directional input device 10. When the operating body 200 performs tilting operations in various directions, it only presses on a single elastic element 301, significantly improving the consistency of the operator's tactile feedback. On the other hand, it also facilitates production and maintenance.
[0043] Referring to Figure 5, in some embodiments of this application, a stepped surface 102 is also provided inside the housing 100. The stepped surface 102 is located on the side of the pressure plate 302 facing the opening 104. The projections of the pressure plate 302 and the stepped surface 102 at least partially overlap, and the stepped surface 102 is configured to abut against the pressure plate 302. By setting the projections of the stepped surface 102 and the pressure plate 302 to at least partially overlap, the pressure plate 302 can be more stabilized in the predetermined position, thereby reducing accidental touches or damage caused by movement during operation. Moreover, this design reduces errors during operation and improves the accuracy of input. The presence of the stepped surface 102 also serves a positioning function, providing a fixed reference surface for the pressure plate 302, so that the elastic element 301 in the reset mechanism 300 can perform the recovery function more smoothly when the operating body 200 returns to its original position. In this way, the operator can obtain more consistent feedback when performing input operations, maintaining good mechanical consistency whether it is the contact between the pressure plate 302 and the abutment edge 213 or when the operating body 200 returns to its initial state. Please refer to Figure 2. In one embodiment of this application, the pressure plate 302 is quadrilateral, and its corresponding step surface 102 is provided.
[0044] Referring to Figures 5 and 6, in some embodiments of this application, the operating body 200 further includes a second end 202, which extends through the bottom surface 212. The pressure plate 302 has a through hole 3021 through which the second end 202 passes. A push switch 103 is provided on the bottom wall of the housing 100. The second end 202 is configured to trigger the push switch 103 when the operating body 200 is pressed. The structure of the second end 202 of the operating body 200 and the through hole 3021 on the pressure plate 302 provides the user with additional control functions, enhancing the overall usability and interactive experience of the multi-directional input device 10. The projection portion between the push switch 103 and the second end 202 on the bottom wall of the housing 100 effectively achieves a direct functional association. When the user presses the operating body 200, the push switch 103 located below can be directly activated via the second end 202, thereby triggering a specific operation or command. This direct connection improves the response speed of the multi-directional input device 10 and reduces input latency, resulting in a smoother user experience. The design of the second end 202 allows users to operate it directly via the main operating unit 200. The through-hole 3021 below it allows the pressure plate 302 to move freely without hindering the function of the second end 202.
[0045] In some embodiments of this application, the abutment portion 210 further includes a hemispherical surface 211, which is connected to the operating surface 220. A bowl-shaped portion 1011 is provided in the cavity 101, and the abutment portion 210 is fitted between the bowl-shaped portion 1011 and the hemispherical surface 211 with a gap, so that the abutment portion 210 can be rocked in the cavity 101.
[0046] Please refer to Figure 8. This application embodiment also provides a control handle 30, which includes the aforementioned multi-directional input device 10.
[0047] Referring to Figure 9, this embodiment of the application also provides a control device 40, including the aforementioned control handle 30. The control device 40 can be a game console or a drone, etc.
[0048] The above embodiments are merely illustrative of this application, and should not be limited to these embodiments in actual applications. Other modifications and alterations made by those skilled in the art based on the technical concept of this application should fall within the scope of this patent application.
[0049] 10: Multi-directional input device
[0050] 100: Casing
[0051] 20: Operator
[0052] 200: Operating Entity
[0053] 201: First End
[0054] 101: Cavity
[0055] 104: Opening
[0056] 300: Reset Mechanism
[0057] 210: Contact Department
[0058] 220: Operational Surface
[0059] 211: Hemisphere
[0060] 212: Bottom
[0061] 213: Connecting edge
[0062] 214: Convex column
[0063] 240: Transition surface
[0064] 400: Rocker arm component
[0065] 401: First rocker arm
[0066] 402: Second rocker arm
[0067] 410: Rocker arm body
[0068] 411: Rotating part
[0069] 105: First Groove
[0070] 412: Slide
[0071] 500: Rotation detection component
[0072] 4110: Third end
[0073] 600: Cover
[0074] 601: Card slot
[0075] 106: Connecting part
[0076] 602: Second groove
[0077] 202: Second End
[0078] 1011: Bowl-shaped part
[0079] 301: Elastic component
[0080] 302: Pressure Plate
[0081] 102: Stepped surface
[0082] 3021: Through hole
[0083] 103: Press switch
[0084] 30: Control handle
[0085] 40: Controlling the equipment
[0086] X: X-axis direction
[0087] Y: Y-axis direction
[0088] Z: Z-axis direction
Claims
1. A multi-directional input device, improved in that it comprises: A housing, wherein the housing has a cavity inside, and the housing also has an opening communicating with the cavity; An operating body, at least a portion of which is swayably disposed within the cavity, the operating body comprising an operating main body and an abutment portion disposed around the periphery of the operating main body, the operating main body comprising a first end extending from the opening into the cavity, the abutment portion comprising a bottom surface opposite to the first end, the bottom surface comprising at least two interconnected abutment edges; and a reset mechanism disposed within the cavity and elastically abutting against the bottom surface, the reset mechanism being configured to selectively elastically abut against one of the abutment edges when at least a portion of the operating body is swayed within the cavity; the abutment edge comprising four interconnected abutment edges, the four abutment edges being parallel to each other and surrounding the bottom surface, the outer wall of the abutment portion being provided with a plurality of operating surfaces, the operating surfaces being perpendicular to or at an inclined angle to the bottom surface, the operating surfaces being connected to the bottom surface at the abutment edges. The multi-directional input device further includes a rocker arm element, which is rotatably disposed on the housing. The operating body is drivenly connected to the rocker arm element, and the rocker arm element is configured to rotate relative to the housing when the operating body is rocked. The rocker arm element includes a first rocker arm and a second rocker arm whose rotation axes are perpendicular to each other. The first rocker arm and the second rocker arm are rotatably connected to the housing and stacked. When the abutting edge abuts against the reset mechanism, the operating body is configured to drive the first rocker arm or the second rocker arm to rotate relative to the housing.
2. The multi-directional input device as described in claim 1, wherein, The bottom surface extends away from the first end with a plurality of protrusions, and the abutting edge is formed between the outer periphery of two adjacent protrusions.
3. The multi-directional input device as described in claim 1, wherein, At least one of the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm includes a rocker arm body and rotating portions disposed at both ends of the rocker arm body. The housing is provided with a first groove, and the rotating portions are rotatably disposed within the first groove. The rocker arm body is provided with a sliding groove, at least a portion of which extends in the same direction as the axial direction. The first end passes through the sliding groove and is slidably disposed within the sliding groove. The first end is configured to drive the second rocker arm to rotate relative to the housing when it moves along the sliding groove of the first rocker arm. The first end is also configured to drive the first rocker arm to rotate relative to the housing when it moves along the sliding groove of the second rocker arm.
4. The multi-directional input device as described in claim 1, wherein, The reset mechanism includes an elastic element and a pressure plate. The elastic element is disposed within the cavity, and the pressure plate is disposed at one end of the elastic element near the opening. The elastic element holds the pressure plate against the bottom surface, and the abutting edge is configured to abut against the surface of the pressure plate facing the opening.
5. The multi-directional input device as described in claim 4, wherein, The housing also has a stepped surface located on the side of the pressure plate facing the opening. The projections of the pressure plate and the stepped surface at least partially overlap, and the stepped surface is configured to abut against the pressure plate.
6. The multi-directional input device as described in claim 5, wherein, The operating body also includes a second end, which is disposed through the bottom surface. The pressure plate is provided with a through hole for the second end to pass through. The bottom wall of the housing is provided with a push switch. The second end is configured to trigger the push switch when the operating body is pressed.
7. A control handle, improved in that it includes a multidirectional input device as described in any one of claims 1 to 6.
8. A control device, improved in that it includes a control handle as described in claim 7.
