Contextual Scroll Wheel Braking for Precision Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing computer mice lack dynamic and real-time control options for improved interactive user experience, particularly in managing scroll wheel rotation based on contextual interactions with software applications.
Innovation Solution
A computer mouse with a braking system controlled by processors, incorporating a sensor system to detect scroll wheel motion and apply braking force directionally, and a feedback profile system for various modes of operation, including piezoelectric and electro-permanent magnet-based systems to provide contextual braking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a braking system is applied to stop scroll wheel rotation, then precision and control are improved, but the scroll wheel cannot rotate freely in both directions
Solution Approach 1:
The braking system dynamically adjusts its state based on detected scroll wheel motion. When motion in a direction is detected, the braking system applies force to stop rotation in that direction. When no motion or reverse motion is detected, the braking force is removed, allowing free rotation. This dynamic switching between braking and free rotation states resolves the contradiction between precision control and free rotation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a sensor system to detect the direction and state of scroll wheel rotation, providing feedback to the braking system. Based on this feedback, the braking system intelligently decides when to apply or remove braking force, enabling precise control while maintaining the ability to rotate freely in both directions under appropriate conditions.
2Ease of operation
If a braking system is applied to stop scroll wheel rotation, then control over scroll position is improved, but user interaction flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The braking system transitions between active and inactive states based on real-time detection of scroll wheel motion. This dynamic behavior provides strong control when needed (when rotation is detected) while maintaining flexibility when not needed (when no rotation or reverse rotation occurs), thus resolving the contradiction between control and interaction flexibility.
3Measurement precision
If directional braking is implemented, then precision at predefined points is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system continuously monitors scroll wheel rotation direction and provides feedback to the braking system. This feedback mechanism enables the braking system to automatically apply or remove braking force based on detected motion, achieving precise stopping at predefined points without requiring complex manual control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The braking system operates autonomously by detecting its own operational context through the sensor system. It self-regulates the application of braking force based on detected scroll wheel motion, eliminating the need for external control inputs and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high precision.
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 directional and contextual braking of the scroll wheel, enhancing user interaction by automatically stopping rotation at predefined points in software applications, improving precision and control.
Implementation Method 1
a piezoelectric device controlled by the one or more processors and coupled to the engagement mechanism, wherein in response to an applied voltage, the piezoelectric device bends and pushes the engagement mechanism from a first position, where the engagement mechanism does not interface with the scroll wheel, to a second position where the engagement mechanism interfaces with the scroll wheel and provides the braking force
Implementation Method 2
the feedback profile system is an electro-permanent magnet (EPM)-based system
Data Source
AI summary
A computer mouse comprising a scroll wheel, a braking system operable to provide a braking force on the scroll wheel, and a sensor system operable to detect a force or motion of the scroll wheel in the first and second directions. In response to receiving a control signal to stop rotation of the scroll wheel in the first direction, the braking system applies the braking force on the scroll wheel when the sensor indicates that the force or motion of the scroll wheel is in the first direction and removes the braking force when the sensor indicates that the force or motion of the scroll wheel is in the second direction.