Adjustable Force Input Device Using Pressure-Regulated Elastic Receptacle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional keyboards and mice have fixed force levels for key presses, which fail to accommodate the varying needs of different users, such as children and adults, as the force required for key activation is not adjustable.
Innovation Solution
An input device with a pressure-adjustable elastic receptacle within a casing that allows users to adjust the pressure, providing a customizable resisting force when pressing keys, by incorporating a pressure-adjusting opening and a fluid channel to modify the pressure within the receptacle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the force level of the resisting force is fixed before the keyboard or mouse leaves the factory, then the manufacturing process is simple and consistent, but the device cannot meet the requirements of different users (e.g., children and adults)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the force level adjustable rather than fixed. The elastic receptacle allows users to modify the resistance force according to their needs, transforming a static mechanical system into a dynamic one that can adapt to different users (children and adults) while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by allowing users to adjust the pressure inside the elastic receptacle, which directly changes the force level parameter. This enables the same device to provide different resistance forces for different users without requiring multiple device variants or complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If the force level is set before the keyboard or mouse leaves the factory, then the device structure remains simple, but it is laborious for children to press the key and the feedback force level is insufficient for adults
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic receptacle with adjustable pressure creates a dynamic force level that can be customized for ease of operation. Children can adjust it to lower resistance for easier pressing, while adults can increase it for stronger feedback, all within a simple structural framework that doesn't require complex mechanical adjustment devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The device enables self-service adjustment where users can independently modify the force level according to their own needs without requiring external assistance or complex calibration procedures. The simple structure allows users to adjust the pressure themselves, making the device adaptable to individual preferences and physical capabilities.
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 users to set a force level suitable for their needs, enhancing usability by allowing adjustable resistance for key activation, thus improving the input experience across different user groups.
Implementation Method 1
A pressure-adjustable elastic receptacle is partially or completely accommodated within the casing and contacted with the key body. The pressure within the pressure-adjustable elastic receptacle is adjustable. When the key structure is pressed down to a triggered position, a resisting force to resist the key structure is provided by the pressure-adjustable elastic receptacle.
Data Source
AI summary
An input device with an adjustable force level is provided. The input device includes a circuit board and a key structure. The key structure includes a key body, a casing and a pressure-adjustable elastic receptacle. The pressure-adjustable elastic receptacle is partially or completely accommodated within the casing and sustaining the key body. When the key body is moved downwardly, a resisting force to resist the key body is provided by the pressure-adjustable elastic receptacle and the force level of the resisting force is adjusted by the user. When a force with the force level is applied to the key body by the user, a switch of the circuit board is triggered.