Game Controller Remapping via External Accessory Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Game controllers are limited in functionality due to their compact and ergonomic design, making it costly and resource-intensive to redesign them for additional features, and shoehorning more controls can result in an overcrowded layout that is difficult to interact with accurately.
Innovation Solution
A game controller with a control mapping machine that remaps controls from a first function to a second function when an external accessory is affixed, allowing for expanded functionality without redesigning the controller, using an accessory interface to connect external accessories and dynamically change control mappings based on accessory states or modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional controls are added to the game controller to expand functionality, then the functionality is improved, but the control layout becomes overcrowded and difficult to interact with accurately
Solution Approach 1:
The game controller is divided into a base unit and removable external accessories. The base controller maintains its original ergonomic design with essential controls, while additional functionality is provided through separate accessory modules that can be attached when needed. This segmentation allows the base controller to remain uncluttered while still providing access to expanded features through the accessories.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends the controller's functionality from a two-dimensional surface layout to a three-dimensional configuration by adding removable external accessories that attach to the base controller. This dimensional extension allows additional controls to be added without crowding the original control layout, as the extra controls exist in a separate spatial dimension attached to the base unit.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the game controller is redesigned to include additional controls, then the functionality is improved, but the development cost and resources increase
Solution Approach 1:
The controller system is segmented into a base unit and separate accessory modules. This allows the base controller to be developed once with core functionality, while additional features are added through independently developed accessories. This reduces overall development cost and resource requirements compared to redesigning the entire controller.
Solution Approach 2:
The base controller is designed with a universal interface that can accommodate multiple different accessory types. This multi-functionality allows a single base controller design to work with various accessories, reducing the need for multiple specialized controller designs and thereby lowering development costs and resource requirements.
3Ease of operation
If the game controller is made compact and lightweight for ergonomic holding, then the ease of operation is improved, but the number of controls that can be included is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is segmented into a compact base unit optimized for ergonomic holding and separate external accessories. The base controller maintains its compact, lightweight design for comfortable extended play, while additional controls are provided in detachable accessory modules that can be attached when extra functionality is needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional layout constraint on the controller surface to a three-dimensional configuration with removable accessories. This allows the base controller to remain compact and ergonomic while additional controls are added in an external dimension through attached accessories.
Data Source
AI summary
A game controller includes a plurality of controls, an accessory interface configured to removably affix an external accessory to the game controller, and a control mapping machine. The control mapping machine is configured to map a control of the plurality of controls to a first function while the external accessory is not affixed to the game controller, and map the control to a second function different than the first function while the external accessory is removably affixed to the game controller.