Multi-DOF Hand Controller for Six Degrees of Freedom Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional control systems require multiple discrete controllers to manage six degrees of freedom, leading to complexity and the need for substantial training, and are often not intuitive or mobile, especially for applications like drone flight and virtual reality.
Innovation Solution
A single-hand controller with multiple control members, including a first control member for rotational inputs and a second control member for translational inputs, coupled with optional third members for additional control, allowing independent manipulation of up to six degrees of freedom with reduced cross-coupling and fatigue, using sensors like inertial measurement units and potentiometers for precise feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple discrete controllers are used to control six degrees of freedom, then control capability is improved, but device complexity and training requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple discrete controllers into a single integrated hand controller that can control all six degrees of freedom. The controller includes a first control member for rotational inputs (pitch, yaw, roll) and a second control member for translational inputs (x, y, z axis movement), allowing comprehensive control capability in one device rather than requiring multiple separate controllers.
Solution Approach 2:
The hand controller is designed as a universal control device that can handle multiple functions simultaneously - both rotational and translational control of six degrees of freedom. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for specialized discrete controllers for each degree of freedom, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining full control capability.
2Measurement precision
If multiple discrete controllers are used for six degrees of freedom, then control precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is segmented into distinct control members with specific functions - the first control member handles rotational inputs while the second control member handles translational inputs. This segmentation allows each control member to be optimized for its specific function, maintaining precision while improving ease of operation through intuitive spatial separation of controls.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a spatial dimension to control organization by positioning control members in different locations and orientations within the hand controller. The first control member is positioned for natural thumb manipulation for rotational control, while the second control member is positioned for finger manipulation for translational control, creating an intuitive three-dimensional control layout that enhances both precision and ease of operation.
3Stability of the object's composition
If conventional controllers are designed for stationary use, then control stability is improved, but mobility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The hand controller is designed as a dynamic, portable device that can be easily moved and repositioned, unlike conventional stationary controllers. The controller includes a rechargeable battery for wireless operation and a compact hand-held form factor, enabling users to maintain stable control while moving freely in three-dimensional space, thus achieving both stability and mobility simultaneously.
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
Enables intuitive and precise control of up to six degrees of freedom in a single hand, reducing operator fatigue and allowing for mobile operation in applications like drone flight and virtual reality with improved tactile feedback and reduced training requirements.
Implementation Method 1
Movement or displacement of the first member may be sensed, and control inputs generated, by, for example, an inertial motion unit
Implementation Method 2
using sensors like inertial measurement units and potentiometers for precise feedback
Data Source
AI summary
A controller including a first control member, a second control member that extends from a portion of the first control member, and a third control member that moves in conjunction with, and in opposition to, a degree of freedom of the second control member. The third control member is configured to be operated by one or more of the non-index fingers of the user's hand. A controller processor is operable to produce a rotational movement output signal in response to movement of the first control member, and a translational movement output signal in response to movement of the second control member relative to the first control member. In exemplary embodiments, the first control member may be gripped and moved using a single hand, and the second control member may be moved using the thumb of the single hand. The third control member is configured to be operated by one or more of the non-index fingers of the user's hand, thus permitting intuitive, single-handed control of multiple degrees of freedom, to and including, all six degrees of rotational and translational freedom without any inadvertent cross-coupling inputs.