Force Sensitive Input Device with Analog Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing input devices, such as digital switches and analog sensors, face limitations in representing user intent due to binary outputs and poor tactile feedback, and struggle to fit complex circuitry within compact form factors like keyswitches, leading to inadequate control over movement and action precision in applications like gaming controllers.
Innovation Solution
A force-sensitive input device comprising a button, an analog sensor, and circuitry that generates both analog and digital input data based on the button's displacement, allowing for a range of values and binary outputs, with automatic calibration to ensure accurate and precise user input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If digital switches are used for input devices, then the device structure is simple, but the output is limited to binary values which cannot represent continuous user intent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines digital switch simplicity with analog sensor capability by integrating an analog sensor into the keyswitch structure. The analog sensor continuously measures plunger displacement, providing granular output values that represent continuous user intent while maintaining the simple mechanical keyswitch structure for actuation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If prior analog sensors like potentiometers are used, then continuous user intent can be represented, but the response time is slow due to measurement methods and material relaxation time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical measurement system of prior analog sensors (potentiometers requiring physical rotation and resistance measurement) with a capacitive sensing system. The capacitive sensor detects changes in capacitance caused by plunger displacement, providing instantaneous electrical measurement without mechanical friction or material relaxation delays, thus achieving fast response time while maintaining continuous output.
3Measurement precision
If prior analog sensors are used, then continuous measurement is possible, but tactile and haptic feedback is poor and does not provide reassurance to the user
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the continuous measurement capability of analog sensors with the superior tactile feedback of mechanical switches. The capacitive sensor provides granular measurement of plunger displacement, while the mechanical plunger and spring assembly provide immediate tactile resistance and haptic feedback, allowing users to feel and confirm their input actions while achieving precise continuous measurement.
4Measurement precision
If additional circuitry is added to achieve analog sensing, then continuous output is achieved, but the circuitry does not fit within the compact form factor of a standard keyswitch
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a thin-film capacitive sensor structure that can be integrated into the compact keyswitch form factor. The capacitive sensing element is implemented as a thin film or layered structure within the keyswitch housing, requiring minimal space while providing continuous measurement capability throughout the plunger's travel range.
5Adaptability or versatility
If analog sensors are used in gaming controllers, then granular control of character movement is achieved, but precise directional control (e.g., exactly 90 degrees) cannot be obtained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control functionality by providing both analog output (for granular movement magnitude) and digital output (for precise directional control). The system can output discrete directional information (up, down, left, right) alongside continuous magnitude information, allowing players to achieve both precise 90-degree directional control and variable speed control within each direction.
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 enhanced precision and control over user input by combining analog and digital signals, offering improved tactile feedback and flexibility in representing user intent within compact form factors, enabling more nuanced control in applications like gaming controllers.
Implementation Method 1
analog sensor that outputs an analog signal that is a function of a displacement of the button along the first axis from the first end position
Data Source
AI summary
Force sensitive input device and methods are disclosed. A force sensitive input device may include a button, an analog sensor, and circuitry. The button may be movable along a first axis between first and second end positions and biased toward the first end position. The analog sensor may output an analog signal that is a function of a displacement of the button along the first axis from the first end position. The circuitry may generate both analog and digital input data in response to the analog signal. The analog input data may include a range of values that are monotonically related to the displacement of the button, and the digital input data may include first and second binary values.