Customizable Game Controller With Modular Input Ports
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional video game controllers are not ergonomically designed for all hand types, and existing solutions like the Xbox Adaptive Controller are primarily targeted at gamers with disabilities, limiting their appeal to able-bodied gamers.
Innovation Solution
A customizable game controller with modular communication ports that allow users to attach controller-input-generating devices like foot pedals, joysticks, and steering wheels via magnetic or wired connections, enabling users to place buttons and inputs where they are most comfortable, and a processor that programs these ports to mirror controller inputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional video game controllers are designed with fixed button layouts optimized for ergonomics, then they provide comfortable operation for average hand sizes, but they cannot accommodate users with different hand sizes and preferences
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is divided into a main body with standard buttons and separate modular input devices that can be attached via communication ports. These modular inputs can be positioned independently, allowing users to segment the control functions across different locations and devices based on their ergonomic needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends the controller functionality from a fixed two-dimensional surface to three-dimensional space by allowing input devices to be placed at various distances and orientations from the main controller body, enabling users to position inputs in optimal locations for their hand reach and comfort.
2Ease of operation
If additional paddle buttons are added to conventional controllers to improve accessibility, then users can map buttons to easier-to-reach locations, but the buttons may still not be comfortable for every hand size and the controller becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The communication ports are designed to accept various types of controller-input-generating devices, making the ports universal. Users can attach different input devices (buttons, joysticks, pedals) to the same port type, avoiding the need for multiple specialized connection interfaces and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication ports serve as intermediaries between the main controller and external input devices. Rather than integrating all inputs directly into the controller body, the ports mediate the connection, allowing inputs to be placed externally while maintaining a clean separation between the controller core and peripheral input devices.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the Xbox Adaptive Controller allows devices to be placed far from the controller body, then users with disabilities can use foot pedals and other adaptive devices, but able-bodied gamers are less likely to be aware of the benefits
Solution Approach 1:
The communication ports are designed to be universally useful for both able-bodied and disabled gamers. The same ports and connection methods that enable foot pedals for accessibility also allow able-bodied gamers to experiment with unconventional input placements, making the feature universally appealing rather than niche.
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 users to customize input locations for optimal comfort, enhancing gaming experience by allowing placement of inputs on or off the controller, catering to diverse hand types and preferences.
Implementation Method 1
The magnetic communication ports are configured to magnetically couple with the communication connection of the controller-input-generating device.
Data Source
AI summary
A customizable handheld game controller includes a body, at least one analog stick, at least two trigger buttons, at least one action button, at least one directional pad operatively installed to the body and a plurality of communication ports operatively mounted to the body and operatively connected to one or more processors. The communication ports are configured to receive communication connections of controller-input-generating devices. The processors are configured to program the communication ports to mirror a controller input. While a controller-input-generating device is connected to a communication port, when the device is triggered, it inputs the programmed controller input. The communication ports can be magnetic such that a magnetic button can be attached, or they can be female jacks such that a male plug can be plugged in, or any other means of mechanical/electrical connection.