Mobile Game Controller with Acoustic Waveguide and Hold-Open Handles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing game controllers for mobile devices face difficulties in efficiently inserting and removing the mobile device due to the need to manually pull apart handles while aligning connectors, which can be cumbersome and require both hands.
Innovation Solution
The game controller incorporates a hold-open feature where the handles lock in place after being pulled apart sufficiently, allowing easy insertion of the mobile device, and can be unlocked with light pressure to snap shut and secure the device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the game controller uses a mechanical coupling design with handles that need to be pulled apart for insertion, then the device can be securely attached, but the insertion and removal process becomes cumbersome and requires both hands
Solution Approach 1:
The game controller is designed to automatically perform the alignment and securing functions. When the mobile device is placed on the controller, the handles automatically align and lock into position without requiring manual intervention for alignment, and the connector automatically engages with the device
Solution Approach 2:
The handles are pre-configured with guide features and spring mechanisms that prepare the controller for insertion before the device is even placed on it. The springs are pre-compressed to provide the necessary force for automatic engagement, and the guide features are positioned to automatically align with corresponding features on the device
2Ease of operation
If the handles are designed to lock in place after being pulled apart, then insertion becomes easier, but the mechanism requires additional components to maintain the held-open state
Solution Approach 1:
The handle mechanism transitions from a static locked position to a dynamic held-open state through spring activation. When the user pulls the handles apart, the springs compress and store energy, maintaining the handles in the open position until the device is inserted and the handles are released to return to their locked position
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanisms act as counterforces to the natural tendency of the handles to return to their locked position. The pre-compressed springs provide a holding force that counteracts the elastic recovery force, allowing the handles to remain in the held-open state without requiring continuous user input
3Manufacturing precision
If manual alignment of connectors is required during insertion, then precise connection can be achieved, but the process becomes time-consuming and requires two hands
Solution Approach 1:
The connector and corresponding receptacle are pre-aligned through guide features on the handles and device body. Before the actual insertion occurs, these guide features ensure that the connector and receptacle are already positioned correctly relative to each other, eliminating the need for manual alignment during the insertion process
Solution Approach 2:
The manual alignment action is replaced by a mechanical guide system that automatically positions the connector. The guide features create physical constraints that force the connector into the correct position as the device is placed on the controller, substituting automated mechanical guidance for manual human alignment
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
This design enables users to efficiently and easily insert and remove a mobile device from the game controller, improving usability by reducing the need for manual alignment and handling with both hands.
Implementation Method 1
an acoustic waveguide at a juncture of the first handle and the bridge, the acoustic waveguide configured to redirect sound emitted from the mobile device toward at least one of a front side of the game controller, a top side of the game controller, and a bottom side of the game controller
Data Source
AI summary
A game controller for a mobile device, the game controller including a first handle, a bridge, and an acoustic waveguide. The first handle is configured to contact and support a mobile device and includes a user-accessible, first hardware interface on a main body portion of the first handle that is configured to accept touch inputs. The bridge extends from the main body portion of the first handle. The acoustic waveguide is at a juncture of the first handle and the bridge. The acoustic waveguide is configured to redirect sound emitted from the mobile device toward at least one of a front side of the game controller, a top side of the game controller, and a bottom side of the game controller.