Miniaturized 3D Input Element With Six-Axis Magnetic Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional 3D input devices are large and not suitable for mobile or portable use, lacking miniaturization necessary for compact applications such as in mobile devices and remote controls.
Innovation Solution
A miniaturized 3D input device design featuring a housing with an input element and a sensor device that allows for six-component movement detection, utilizing magneto-resistive sensors and a spring device for precise position tracking, integrated within a portable form factor, potentially within mobile devices or as a remote control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional 3D input devices are used to detect six-component movements, then measurement precision is achieved, but device size becomes large and unsuitable for mobile use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical sensor arrangements with a magnetic field-based detection system. Magnets are integrated into the input element, and magneto-resistive sensors are embedded in the housing, eliminating the need for complex mechanical measurement structures and enabling miniaturization while maintaining six-component movement detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The input element serves multiple functions: it acts as both the user interface for input and the mounting structure for magnets. The housing simultaneously provides structural support, houses the sensor device, and integrates the magnetic field detection system. This multi-functionality reduces the overall device volume while maintaining measurement precision
2Volume of moving object
If the input element is integrated within the housing contour, then device compactness is improved, but accessibility to the input element may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The input element is nested within the housing contour, with magnets integrated into the input element and sensors embedded in the housing. This nesting arrangement maintains compact device volume while preserving full functionality. The input element can be fully integrated within the housing boundaries, yet remains accessible through the device exterior
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables portable and compact 3D input capabilities, allowing users to perform three-dimensional movements and rotations with precision, leveraging existing mobile device power and computing resources for efficient operation.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor device comprises at least one sensor unit. A sensor unit comprises at least one sensor and at least one transmitter associated with the sensor. The at least one sensor is a magneto-resistive sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A 3D input device, in particular a mobile 3D input device, has a housing and an input element arranged within the housing. The input element has at least a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The 3D input device has a sensor device. The input element is movable relative to the housing in six components. The sensor device detects the movements and/or the positions of the input element relative to the housing. The first side of the input element or the second side of the input element or the first side and the second side of the input element are together configured in such a way that a user can complete a movement of the input element along the six components via an action on the input element. A mobile device and a 3D remote-control each have at least one such 3D input device.