Directional Game Controller with Hall Effect Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing game controllers with potentiometric sensors suffer from precision issues, mechanical wear, dust susceptibility, limited lifespan, and inability to simulate diverse vehicle types realistically, due to their design limitations and fragility.
Innovation Solution
A game controller with a Hall effect or magnetoresistive detection assembly, featuring a detachable actuator and fixed part, allowing precise rotation measurement without contact, enhanced durability, and compatibility with various vehicle simulations through interchangeable actuators and modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a potentiometer sensor is used to measure steering wheel rotation, then the device structure is simple and cost-effective, but the measurement precision is insufficient and mechanical wear occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical potentiometer sensor with a magnetic detection system consisting of a magnet fixed to the rotating shaft and a magnetic sensor (such as Hall effect sensor) fixed to the housing. This substitution eliminates mechanical contact and wear, providing non-contact measurement of rotational position with higher precision and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnet as an intermediary element that couples the mechanical rotation to the magnetic sensor. The magnet fixed to the rotating shaft creates a magnetic field that the magnetic sensor detects, enabling precise measurement of rotational position without direct mechanical contact between the sensor and rotating parts.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed steering wheel design is used, then the structure is simple, but the adaptability to different vehicle types is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the steering controller into separable modules: a base unit with the magnetic detection system and interchangeable actuator components (steering wheels, handlebars, etc.). This segmentation allows users to swap actuators depending on the vehicle type being simulated, enhancing versatility without requiring complete redesign of the entire controller.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the base unit with a universal mounting interface that can accommodate multiple types of actuators (steering wheels for cars, handlebars for motorcycles, etc.). The magnetic detection system and electronic components serve multiple functions across different vehicle simulations, reducing the need for multiple dedicated controllers.
3Ease of repair
If the actuator is permanently fixed to the base, then the structure is robust, but the ease of repair and recycling is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the connection between the actuator and base as a separable interface rather than a permanent bond. The actuator can be detached and replaced without damaging the base unit, facilitating easy repair, maintenance, and recycling while maintaining robust connection during normal use through proper mechanical engagement features.
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
The solution provides improved precision, durability, and versatility, enabling realistic simulations across different vehicle types without the limitations of potentiometric sensors, with easier maintenance and recycling.
Implementation Method 1
A game controller with a Hall effect or magnetoresistive detection assembly
Implementation Method 2
A game controller with a Hall effect or magnetoresistive detection assembly
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The controller (1) has an activator (2) that is movable in rotation with respect to a fixed part (3) to simulate control of rotation of a steering column of a simulated vehicle. A detecting unit detects rotational displacement of the activator, where the detecting unit has a magnetoresistive effect or Hall effect detection assembly that comprises a permanent magnet e.g. crown magnet, and a magnetic sensor. The sensor is integrated in rotation to the activator, and the permanent magnet is integrated in rotation to the fixed part. The activator is chosen from a hand wheel, handlebar or ship steering wheel.