Adaptive Pressable Input Hinge for Natural Finger Motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Handheld input devices with fixed paths of motion do not adapt to the natural motion of different users' fingers, leading to an unnatural and ergonomic experience, especially for users with varying hand sizes.
Innovation Solution
A hinge coupling with a varying axis of rotation based on the force applied to the pressable user input mechanism, utilizing a curved spring that adjusts to the natural motion of the user's finger, combined with sensor arrangements to detect multiple actuation states and touch sensors for improved input interpretation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed path of motion is used for the pressable user input mechanism, then the device structure is simple and manufacturing is easier, but the device does not adapt to the natural motion of different users' fingers
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge coupling is designed with a curved spring that allows the axis of rotation to vary dynamically based on the force applied by the user's finger. This dynamic mechanism enables the pressable input mechanism to adapt to different natural finger motions while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge coupling changes the rotational parameters (axis position and orientation) in response to applied force characteristics. This allows the mechanism to provide a fixed path when needed while adapting to natural finger motion curves, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and adaptability.
2Ease of operation
If a varying axis of rotation is implemented in the hinge coupling, then the pressable user input mechanism adapts to natural finger motion, but the hinge coupling structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge coupling employs a curved spring design that naturally follows the arc of finger motion. This curved geometry provides the varying axis of rotation needed for ergonomic operation while using a simple, elegant mechanical form rather than a complex multi-component assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The curved spring in the hinge coupling automatically adjusts its rotational characteristics in response to the user's natural finger motion without requiring external control systems or complex mechanisms. The structure serves itself by leveraging the natural physics of curved elastic deformation.
3Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are used to detect actuation states, then input interpretation accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor arrangement is designed to detect multiple actuation states (pressed, released, partially pressed) using a coordinated system of sensors that serve multiple detection functions. This universal approach improves input interpretation accuracy while avoiding the need for separate dedicated sensors for each state.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple sensors are combined into an integrated detection system that works together to interpret user input. By merging the sensing functions and processing them collectively, the system achieves high measurement precision while managing complexity through unified sensor architecture rather than separate independent systems.
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
The solution allows the pressable user input mechanism to follow the natural motion of fingers, providing a more ergonomic and adaptable experience for a wide range of users, enhancing user comfort and input accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
a hinge coupling with a varying axis of rotation based on the force applied to the pressable user input mechanism, utilizing a curved spring that adjusts to the natural motion of the user's finger
Data Source
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AI summary
Examples are disclosed that relate to handheld input devices having pressable user input mechanisms configured to move in a manner that adapts to different hands. One disclosed example provides a handheld input device comprising a body configured to be held by a hand such that one or more fingers of the hand are curved at least partially toward a palm of the hand, a pressable user input mechanism positioned on the body at such a location as to be in contact with a palm-side surface of a finger when the handheld input device is held, and a hinge coupling between the body and the pressable user input mechanism, the hinge coupling comprising an axis of rotation that varies based upon a characteristic of force applied to the pressable user input mechanism.