Detachable Operation Stick Unit for Easy Input Module Replacement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing input devices have operation members such as buttons, direction keys, and operation sticks that are fixed to the housing, making it difficult to replace these parts.

Innovation Solution

The input device features a main body with recessed portions for housing an operation member unit, which includes a second operation member and a circuit for detecting movement. This unit is attachable and detachable, allowing for easy replacement of operation members.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If operation members are fixed to the housing, then structural stability is improved, but replaceability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidreplaceability
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The input device is divided into a housing and a detachable operation member unit. The operation member unit includes the operation stick, supporting mechanism, and circuit board assembly, which can be separated from the housing through a detachable connection structure, enabling replacement while maintaining structural integrity during use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connection between the operation member unit and housing transitions from a fixed static connection to a dynamic detachable connection. The unit can be firmly attached during operation for stability, and easily detached when replacement is needed, providing adaptability without compromising structural stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Strength

If operation members are fixed to the housing, then structural integrity is improved, but ease of repair deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidease of repair
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The operation member unit is segmented as a separate replaceable module containing the operation stick, supporting mechanism, and circuit board. This segmentation allows the unit to be detached and replaced without disassembling the entire housing, significantly improving ease of repair while maintaining structural integrity when assembled.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If operation members are fixed to the housing, then reliability is improved, but adaptability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovereliabilityVSAvoidcustomizability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The detachable connection structure provides dynamic adaptability, allowing the operation member unit to be firmly connected for reliable operation and easily disconnected for customization. Users can replace the unit with different configurations or types based on different game or application requirements, achieving both reliability and customizability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS20250060837A1Input device and operation stick unit
Publication Date: 2025.02.20 SONY INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT LLC
  • US20250060837A1 patent drawing
  • US20250060837A1 patent drawing
  • US20250060837A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A part provided with an operation member in an input device is enabled to be replaced easily. The input device includes a stick unit including an operation stick and a circuit for detecting movement of the operation stick. A main body of the input device has a housing recessed portion that opens upward and rearward and houses the stick unit. The stick unit is attachable to and detachable from the housing recessed portion.