Angular Adjustment Mechanism for Ergonomic Input Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional input devices such as keyboards and mice are not ergonomically adjustable in three-dimensional directions, leading to user discomfort and fatigue due to fixed angular positions that do not accommodate individual user needs.
Innovation Solution
An angular adjustment mechanism comprising a limiting unit with guiding channels, U-shaped and inverted U-shaped clamping units, and a top cover unit, allowing for adjustment in three-dimensional directions by rotating these components relative to each other, with a fixing member to secure the desired position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the operation device is designed as a stand-alone device with fixed structure, then the device structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the device cannot be adjusted in three-dimensional directions and cannot fit individual user needs
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is divided into multiple independent components: a base unit, a limiting unit with guiding channels, and a clamping unit with adjustable arms. Each component can be manufactured separately and then assembled, allowing the complex adjustment function to be achieved through modular design rather than a single complex structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism transforms from a static fixed-structure device to a dynamic adjustable device. The clamping unit can be positioned at different locations along the guiding channels, and the arms can be adjusted to different lengths and angles, enabling the device to adapt to various user needs while maintaining structural integrity.
2Ease of operation
If the operation device allows free movement on support surface, then the device is portable and easy to position, but the device lacks stable angular adjustment capability and cannot maintain fixed inclination positions
Solution Approach 1:
The limiting unit acts as an intermediary between the base unit and the clamping unit. It provides guiding channels that constrain the movement of the clamping unit to specific paths, thereby enabling stable angular adjustment while maintaining ease of positioning. The intermediary structure translates free movement capability into controlled adjustable positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism allows changing of geometric parameters (position along guiding channels, arm lengths, angles) to achieve different stable angular positions. By adjusting these parameters, the device can maintain various fixed inclination positions while remaining easy to reposition overall.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the operation device has fixed angular position, then the device structure is simple and reliable, but the device causes user discomfort and fatigue due to inability to accommodate individual ergonomic needs
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is designed to be universal, accommodating different user sizes, preferences, and ergonomic requirements through a single device configuration. The same mechanism can be adjusted to suit multiple users and different usage scenarios, making the device multi-functional without requiring multiple specialized designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism employs a nested structure where the clamping unit with adjustable arms fits within the framework of the base unit and limiting unit. This nesting allows the complex adjustment functionality to be integrated into a compact form that is relatively simple to manufacture while providing extensive ergonomic adaptability.
Data Source
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AI summary
An adjustment mechanism includes a limiting unit formed with a first channel and a second channel lying along first and second planes, a lower clamping unit having a U structure and being received within the first channel, a bottom seat unit disposed below and supporting the lower clamping unit from underneath, an upper clamping unit having inverted U structure and being received within the second channel such that the lower and upper clamping units are located at two opposite sides of the limiting unit with the first and second planes crossing perpendicularly each other. A top cover unit is disposed above and connected to the upper clamping unit. Adjusting position of the lower clamping unit and the limiting unit along the first plane and the upper clamping unit and the limiting unit along the second plane results in changing an angular position of the cover unit relative to the bottom seat unit.