Detachable Joystick Module With Snap-Fit Stick Replacement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional joystick modules integrate the steering stick unit and pressing switch, leading to unequal lifespans and requiring desoldering for replacement, causing waste and potential environmental pollution.

Innovation Solution

A joystick module design with a detachable steering stick unit and switch module, utilizing buckling structures and hollow buckling units for quick assembly and disassembly without desoldering tools.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the steering stick unit and pressing switch are integrally soldered to the circuit board, then the structure is stable and reliable, but the steering stick unit cannot be replaced independently and causes waste when broken

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidreplaceability of steering stick unit

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The joystick module is divided into independent functional modules: the steering stick unit, the pressing switch, and the circuit board. The steering stick unit is connected to the circuit board via a detachable connection structure rather than permanent soldering, allowing it to be replaced independently when worn or broken, while the pressing switch remains integrated. This segmentation enables selective replacement of only the steering stick unit without discarding the entire assembly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If the steering stick unit is soldered to the circuit board, then the electrical connection is reliable, but desoldering tools are required for replacement which may damage the game controller

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectrical connection reliabilityVSAvoidease of replacement

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The traditional soldering connection is replaced with a mechanical detachable connection structure. This mechanical connection provides reliable electrical contact through conductive elements that engage with corresponding contacts on the circuit board, while allowing tool-free detachment. The mechanical connection maintains electrical reliability without requiring soldering or desoldering operations, eliminating the risk of damage to the game controller during replacement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of manufacture

If the steering stick unit is permanently integrated, then the manufacturing process is simple, but replacement causes environmental pollution from discarded electronic components

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemanufacturing simplicityVSAvoidwaste of electronic components

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The steering stick unit is designed as a separate, replaceable module with its own connection interface to the circuit board. This segmentation allows the steering stick unit to be replaced independently when worn, preventing the need to discard the entire joystick module including the pressing switch and circuit board. Only the worn steering stick unit is discarded, significantly reducing electronic waste and environmental pollution from harmful substances in circuit boards and components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

4Reliability

If the steering stick unit requires desoldering for replacement, then the initial assembly is secure, but the replacement process is time-consuming and complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveassembly securityVSAvoidreplacement time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The soldering process is replaced with a mechanical snap-fit or bayonet-style connection mechanism. The steering stick unit features connection elements that engage with corresponding receptacles on the circuit board, providing secure attachment during normal use. For replacement, the user simply needs to press a release mechanism or pull the unit outward, achieving quick replacement without time-consuming desoldering operations while maintaining assembly security during operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS12551786B2Joystick module

Publication Date: 2026.02.17 CHENG UEI PRECISION IND CO LTD

AI summary

A joystick module includes a circuit board, a base, a steering stick unit, a switch module electrically connected with the circuit board, and a plurality of buckling structures. The base is disposed on the circuit board. The base is equipped with a plurality of hollow buckling units. The steering stick unit is detachably fastened to the base. The steering stick unit has a shell, a directing stick extended upward from a top surface of the shell, and a plurality of insertion feet extended downward from several portions of a bottom surface of the shell. The directing stick is shakable. The plurality of the insertion feet penetrate through the plurality of the buckling units. The plurality of the buckling structures are formed at the plurality of the insertion feet. The plurality of the buckling structures are buckled with the plurality of the buckling units.