Adjustable Scroll Wheel Module with Variable Torque Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional computer mouse scroll wheels provide a fixed rotational torque, failing to adapt to user preferences for different section feels, which is no longer sufficient to meet modern user demands.
Innovation Solution
A scroll wheel module with an adjustment wheel, transmission mechanism, and elastic components that allow the rotational force to be adjusted by rotating the adjustment wheel, changing the force applied to the scroll wheel and enabling different section modes based on user preference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the scroll wheel uses a fixed rotational torque mechanism, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the adaptability to different user preferences is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the rotational torque adjustable rather than fixed. The adjustment wheel allows users to dynamically change the torque magnitude, transforming the static system into a dynamic one that can adapt to different user preferences while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by allowing the rotational torque parameter to be varied through the adjustment mechanism. The transmission mechanism converts the adjustment wheel's rotation into changes in the contact force parameter, enabling continuous adjustment of the scroll wheel's rotational characteristics
2Ease of operation
If the scroll wheel provides a single section feel, then the device complexity is low, but the ease of operation for diverse users is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling the scroll wheel to serve multiple users with different preferences through a single adjustable mechanism. The adjustment wheel allows one device to provide multiple section feels, making the device universally operable for different user needs without requiring multiple separate devices
3Ease of manufacture
If the transmission mechanism directly transmits force, then the manufacturing precision is high, but the ease of manufacture is reduced due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the intermediary principle by introducing an elastic piece as a mediator between the transmission mechanism and the scroll wheel. This elastic piece absorbs manufacturing tolerances and alignment errors, reducing the precision requirements for other components while still achieving the desired force transmission function
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 adjust the rotational force of the scroll wheel at any time, providing a customizable section feel that can be either harder or lighter, thus accommodating various user preferences.
Implementation Method 1
the elastic piece produces an elastic deformation to change a magnitude of the contact force applied to the contact portion by the second end of the transmission mechanism
Implementation Method 2
the spring provides a counter force to fix a position of the adjustment wheel
Implementation Method 3
the first end of the transmission mechanism produces a lateral rotational displacement through the inclined surface
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a scroll wheel module, which includes an adjustment wheel, a scroll wheel and a transmission mechanism. The adjustment wheel includes an adjustment portion. The scroll wheel includes a contact portion. The transmission mechanism has a first end and a second end opposite to each other, the first end is connected to the adjustment portion of the adjustment wheel, and the second end is adjacent to the scroll wheel. When the adjustment wheel is rotated, the first end of the transmission mechanism produces a displacement relative to the adjustment portion such that the second end of the transmission mechanism applies a force to the contact. A magnitude of the force is proportional to a rotational force of the scroll wheel.