Ergonomic Data Input Device with Integrated Multi-Function Button
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current data input devices require numerous hand movements to access and validate data, leading to ergonomic challenges such as error-proneness and significant learning time due to the distance between actuators.
Innovation Solution
A data input device with a trackball designator and ambidextrous palm rest, featuring two buttons configured with concentric rings for coarse and fine adjustments, allowing for multiple inputs without hand repositioning, and a mini stick function for additional data entry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the rotary button and validation button are separated on the device, then each button can be independently operated, but the operator must move the hand between buttons which increases error rate and passage time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the rotary button and validation button into a single integrated button structure. The validation function is integrated into the rotary button itself, allowing the operator to perform both rotation for value selection and validation without moving the hand to a separate button location.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated button serves multiple functions: it acts as both a rotary selection mechanism and a validation button. By making the button multi-functional, the device eliminates the need for separate buttons and reduces the number of hand movements required during operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple buttons are placed on the palm rest, then data entry capabilities are enhanced, but the hand must reposition between buttons which reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple data entry functions (rotation, pushing, clicking) into a single button structure, allowing all operations to be performed without hand repositioning while maintaining full data entry versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The button incorporates multiple degrees of freedom for interaction: rotational movement around a vertical axis, vertical pushing movement, and lateral clicking movement. This multi-dimensional interaction capability allows diverse data entry operations from a single button location.
3Device complexity
If the validation button is located away from the rotary button, then the designator and buttons can be independently positioned, but the operator's hand must move between them increasing error proneness
Solution Approach 1:
The validation function is merged into the rotary button structure itself, eliminating the spatial separation between the two functions. This integration ensures that the operator's hand remains stationary on the same button throughout the entire operation, significantly reducing errors caused by hand movement.
Data Source
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Figure 5a~5c
AI summary
The invention relates to a data input device (10; 40; 45) comprising a designator (11; 41; 46) capable of pointing to a position on a screen of a computer system to which the device is intended to be connected, and a body (12) intended to be fixed to a workstation. The body (12) includes a support area (17, 18) for the hand of an operator (13) to rest on when manipulating the designator (11; 41; 46). According to the invention, the device further comprises a button (20, 21) arranged to be operated by the operator's fingers, while their hand (13) rests on the support area (17, 18). The button (20, 21) is configured to allow at least two separate data selections (23, 24, 25) including a choice of values in a series and a binary input related to the chosen value.