Mobile Game Controller Hold-Open Mechanism for Easy Device Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing game controllers for mobile devices face difficulties in efficiently inserting and removing the mobile device due to the need to manually pull apart handles while aligning connectors, making the process cumbersome and requiring two hands.
Innovation Solution
The game controller incorporates a hold-open feature where the handles lock in place after being pulled apart sufficiently, allowing easy insertion of the mobile device, and can be unlocked by applying light pressure to snap the device shut, securing it to the controller.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the game controller uses a traditional mechanical coupling design without hold-open feature, then the structure is simpler, but the ease of operation deteriorates because users must manually pull apart handles while aligning connectors, requiring two hands
Solution Approach 1:
The hold-open feature performs the action of keeping handles separated in advance, before the device insertion process begins. When users pull the handles apart, the hold-open mechanism automatically engages to maintain this separated state, eliminating the need for users to continuously hold the handles apart during device alignment and insertion.
Solution Approach 2:
The hold-open mechanism is self-actuating through spring-loaded arms that automatically engage when handles are pulled apart. The system serves itself by using the user's initial pulling action to trigger the spring mechanism, which then maintains the open state without requiring continuous user input or complex control systems.
2Ease of operation
If the game controller incorporates a hold-open feature with spring-loaded arms and latches, then the ease of operation improves for device insertion, but the device complexity increases due to additional mechanical components
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical coupling system transitions from a static connected state to a dynamic hold-open state through spring-loaded arms. These arms can flex and extend when handles are pulled apart, then return to their original position when handles are released, providing automatic locking and unlocking functionality without complex control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism is divided into separate functional components: spring-loaded arms for the hold-open feature, latches for securing handles in the open position, and release buttons for unlocking. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall design while achieving the desired ease of operation.
3Productivity
If the handles are designed to lock in place after being pulled apart, then the productivity improves by enabling single-handed device insertion, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase to ensure proper latch engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The spring constant and pre-load force of the spring-loaded arms are carefully selected to provide sufficient holding force to maintain handles in the open position during device insertion, while requiring only light pressure on release buttons to overcome this force and unlock the handles. This parameter optimization ensures reliable latching without excessive manufacturing tolerances.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism is designed with asymmetric engagement features where the latch arms engage with corresponding slots or detents on the handle assembly. This asymmetric design provides natural alignment guidance during the latching process, reducing the precision requirements compared to symmetric or precision-fit approaches.
Data Source
AI summary
A game controller for a mobile device that includes a first handle, a first bumper, and a first switch. The first handle is configured to contact and support a mobile device. The first bumper is coupled to the first handle. The first bumper is configured to accept touch inputs. The first bumper includes a pivot rod at a first end of the first bumper that is configured to engage a track slot of the first handle. The pivot rod is configured to rotate within the track slot and to translate within the track slot. The first bumper further includes a plunger at a first-span distance from the pivot rod. The first switch is within the first handle and is configured to be activated by touch inputs to the first bumper. The plunger of the first bumper is configured to contact and impart a force to the first switch.