Controller Docking Station for Mobile Gaming Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile computing devices face limitations in user interface real estate due to their portable size, particularly when trying to utilize the entire display area for gaming, as traditional protective cases fail to provide adequate controller arrangements for gaming.
Innovation Solution
A controller docking station with a gaming controller interface, electro-mechanical connector, and Bluetooth wireless interface that integrates additional user interface components such as rocker switches and buttons, allowing for enhanced control over mobile computing devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a touch screen interface is used in mobile computing devices, then the device can provide graphical user interface controls, but the visible real estate for gaming is reduced due to the fixed display viewing area
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the control function into two separate components: the display device remains dedicated to visual output (gaming), while a separate controller docking station handles user input. This segmentation allows the display to be fully utilized for gaming without being compromised by on-device interface controls.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller docking station serves as an intermediary between the user and the mobile computing device. It receives input from physical controllers and transmits signals to the device, enabling full display utilization for gaming while providing traditional controller inputs.
2Reliability
If traditional protective cases are used, then the device is protected, but adequate controller arrangements for gaming are not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The controller docking station is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it protects the mobile computing device (similar to a protective case) while also providing dedicated gaming controller interfaces. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by combining protection and gaming control capabilities in a single device.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges the protective case function with the gaming controller function into a single integrated docking station. The controller docking station provides both physical protection for the device and dedicated controller arrangements for gaming, eliminating the need for separate protective cases and controllers.
3Weight of moving object
If the mobile computing device is made smaller for portability, then portability is improved, but the real estate for user interface features is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system moves the user interface controls from the two-dimensional display surface to a separate three-dimensional docking station. This dimensional separation allows the mobile device to remain small and portable while providing extensive user interface real estate through the external controller docking station.
Data Source
AI summary
A controller docking device comprising a controller casing having a mobile device receptacle extending inward from a casing front panel. Common game controller user input devices are integrated into the front panel, preferably locating a directional controller on a left side and an action controller on a right side of the mobile device receptacle. Additional user input devices can be integrated into the controller casing. The additional user input devices can include additional controller inputs located proximate one or both of the common game controller user input devices, along an intermediary circumferential panel of the casing, and the like. Various mobile device controller communicative buttons can be integrated into the controller casing providing the user with an interface for operational capabilities of the mobile computing device.