Input Device Rocking Body Mechanism for Compact Multidirectional Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional input devices with multidirectional operation capabilities are bulkier and lack efficient mechanisms for detecting rotational, sliding, and push operations simultaneously, limiting their compactness and operational precision.
Innovation Solution
The input device incorporates a complex operation mechanism with a circular operation part that allows 360-degree sliding, rotational movement, and push input detection, utilizing a coupling body and rotary body configuration with a rocking body and spring mechanism to detect movements and provide a click feel, while minimizing contact areas for reduced friction and enhanced sliding capability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional multidirectional operation switches use separate movable bodies and switch contacts for rotational and sliding operations, then operational functionality is achieved, but device size becomes bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the rotational operation detection and sliding operation detection into a single integrated switch body structure. The operation part serves dual functions: it can rotate relative to the switch body to detect rotational operations, and it can slide in radial directions relative to the switch body to detect sliding operations. This merging of functions into one component eliminates the need for separate movable bodies for each operation type, thereby reducing device size while maintaining multidirectional operation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The operation part is designed as a universal component that can perform multiple operations: rotational movement for rotational operation input, radial sliding for sliding operation input, and axial pushing for push operation input. By making the operation part multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for separate specialized components for each operation type, achieving downsizing while preserving full operational versatility.
2Measurement precision
If conventional input devices use multiple separate components for detecting rotational, sliding, and push operations, then detection accuracy is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple detection functions into a single integrated switch body structure. The operation part, in conjunction with the switch body, simultaneously provides detection capabilities for rotational operations (through relative rotation), sliding operations (through radial sliding), and push operations (through axial movement). This integration reduces the number of separate components while maintaining detection accuracy through precise electrical contact mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch body and operation part combination serves as a universal detection system that handles multiple operation types with a single integrated structure. The operation part can detect all three operation types (rotational, sliding, and push) through its different movement modes relative to the switch body, eliminating the need for multiple separate detection mechanisms and thereby reducing device complexity.
3Stability of the object's composition
If conventional multidirectional switches use extensive contact areas between components, then structural stability is achieved, but friction increases and sliding capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating differentiated contact areas with different characteristics. The operation part has specific contact surfaces designed for minimal friction that allow smooth radial sliding movements, while maintaining sufficient contact for stable electrical connections. The switch body provides localized support structures that ensure structural stability without creating excessive friction zones, enabling easy sliding operations while preserving overall structural integrity.
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 configuration enables precise detection of rotational direction, angle, and sliding movements in eight directions, along with push inputs, while maintaining a compact design by reducing the number of components and preventing erroneous detection, thus achieving downsizing and improved operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
rocking body and spring mechanism to detect movements and provide a click feel
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2C
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AI summary
An input device includes: an operation part being slidable in a first direction along a reference plane and in a second direction along the reference plane; and a slide detector detecting that the operation part slides. The slide detector includes a rocking body and a rocking motion detector, the rocking body is inclined with respect to the reference plane in accordance with a sliding movement of the operation part, and the rocking motion detector detects that the rocking body is inclined.