Stackable Controller Thumbstick for Adjustable Height and Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing videogame controllers with fixed thumbstick heights and sizes fail to meet the varying precision requirements of different games and user comfort needs, requiring users to test multiple attachments for optimal fit, which is cumbersome and costly.
Innovation Solution
A modular system comprising a base element, adjustable elements, and a cap element that interlock via coupling mechanisms, allowing users to stack and configure the thumbstick height and size to suit specific games and user preferences, using mechanical, magnetic, or adhesive attachments for secure engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-height thumbstick is used in conventional controllers, then the controller structure is simple and manufacturing is easy, but the controller cannot be adapted to different games and user preferences requiring varying pointing precision
Solution Approach 1:
The thumbstick attachment is divided into multiple stackable segments (base element, intermediate elements, cap element) that can be independently assembled. Each segment contains coupling mechanisms that allow them to connect in series, enabling the overall height to be customized by stacking different numbers of segments together according to specific game requirements or user preferences.
Solution Approach 2:
The thumbstick height is made dynamically adjustable through a modular stacking system. Users can configure the attachment by stacking varying numbers of intermediate elements between the base and cap, allowing the height to be changed as needed for different games or users without permanently altering the controller structure.
2Ease of operation
If multiple fixed attachments are provided for different heights, then users can find an optimal fit, but users must test multiple attachments which is cumbersome and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanisms are designed with universal compatibility across all segments (base element, intermediate elements, cap element). The same coupling interface is used throughout the stackable assembly, allowing any segment to be interchangeably stacked with any other segment of the same type, greatly simplifying the selection and assembly process compared to providing multiple complete fixed attachments.
3Measurement precision
If the thumbstick height is increased for better pointing precision, then pointing precision improves, but the thumbstick may interfere with the controller body during full deflection
Solution Approach 1:
The stackable design allows the thumbstick height to be dynamically adjusted to an optimal level. Users can stack enough intermediate elements to achieve the desired pointing precision while stopping before the height becomes excessive and causes interference with the controller body during full deflection, providing a balanced solution.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, apparatus, and methods are described for adjusting a thumbstick of a controller, such as adjusting a height and/or other characteristic of the thumbstick. Systems, apparatus, and methods can include one or more of a base element, an adjustment element, and a cap element, which can couple to one another to form an interlocked or stacked configuration that, when coupled to the thumbstick, can adjust the thumbstick of the controller.