Multi-Axis Input Device Panning Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Computer input devices, such as mice, lack the complex functionalities required for advanced applications like gaming, particularly in terms of panning, twisting, and tilting mechanisms, which are essential for precise control of images on displays and real-world devices.
Innovation Solution
The development of a panning mechanism with constraining means, a twisting mechanism with pivot assemblies, and a tilting mechanism, each utilizing sensor arrangements and urging members to create input signals for data processing, allowing for precise movement control in multiple axes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a standard computer mouse is used, then the device is simple to manufacture and operate, but it lacks complex functionalities required for advanced applications like gaming
Solution Approach 1:
The input device is divided into multiple independent movement mechanisms: a panning mechanism with first and second sensor arrangements for horizontal/vertical movement, a twisting mechanism with third sensor arrangement for rotational input, and a tilting mechanism with fourth sensor arrangement for angular input. Each mechanism operates independently with its own sensor carrier and constraining means, allowing complex functionality while maintaining modular simplicity in manufacturing
Solution Approach 2:
The device integrates multiple input functions into a single unified structure. The housing contains all sensor arrangements (first, second, third, and fourth sensors) and their respective carrier arrangements, enabling the device to perform panning, twisting, tilting, and clicking operations simultaneously or independently, providing universal control for various applications including gaming, robotics, and virtual reality
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sensor arrangements are integrated into a single housing, then complex input functions are achieved, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Each sensor arrangement is housed in its own dedicated carrier arrangement (first sensor carrier, second sensor carrier, third sensor carrier, fourth sensor carrier). These carrier arrangements are independently movable relative to each other within the housing, with each having its own constraining means (guide ways, guide slots, guide members). This segmentation allows complex multi-axis input functionality while maintaining structural organization and simplifying manufacturing through modular assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier arrangements are nested within the housing structure in a hierarchical manner. The first and second sensor carriers are movable within the housing, while the third and fourth sensor carriers are positioned to enable twisting and tilting motions respectively. Each carrier contains its sensor and movement mechanism, nested within the overall housing that provides the external interface, creating a compact multi-functional structure
3Measurement precision
If constraining means with guide ways are used for the panning mechanism, then precise movement control is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The constraining means for the panning mechanism uses guide ways and guide slots that define permissible movement paths, replacing complex mechanical linkages with simpler geometric constraints. The guide members (pegs, pins, or protrusions) on the first and second sensor carriers engage with corresponding guide slots in the housing, allowing precise linear and angular movement through geometric guidance rather than mechanical joints, reducing complexity while maintaining precision
Solution Approach 2:
The guide members act as intermediaries between the sensor carriers and the housing. These guide members (protrusions on carriers engaging with slots in housing) translate user input forces into precise sensor movements along defined paths, mediating between the user's manual manipulation and the sensor's measurement function, achieving precise control with simple geometric interfaces
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 a 5-axis input device capable of single-handed operation, allowing simultaneous movement in multiple axes, enhancing control over images on screens and real-world devices, suitable for gaming and various applications like robotics and virtual reality.
Implementation Method 1
the movement of the movable carrier arrangement relative to the fixed carrier arrangement effects movement of the first sensor component relative to the second sensor component to create input signals
Implementation Method 2
The constraining means may comprise a plurality of urging members operable on the guide members to urge the movable carrier arrangement to a substantially central position relative to the fixed carrier arrangement
Data Source
AI summary
An input device (10) comprises a panning mechanism (12). The panning mechanism comprises a sensor arrangement having first and second sensor components (46, 48), a movable carrier arrangement (40) for carrying the first sensor component and a fixed carrier arrangement (42) on which the second sensor component is mounted. The movable carrier arrangement is movable relative to the fixed carrier arrangement. The panning mechanism further includes constraining means (50) to constrain movement of the movable carrier arrangement relative to the fixed carrier arrangement in two directions. The movement of the movable carrier arrangement relative to the fixed carrier arrangement effects movement of the first sensor component relative to the second sensor component to create input signals such as input signals for a data processing apparatus.