Magnet-Based Mouse Switch for Low-Wear Click Haptics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Contemporary computer input devices, such as mice and keyboards, rely on contact-based switches that suffer from wear and tear, leading to unreliable performance and low signal-to-noise ratios, particularly in heavy usage scenarios like gaming.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a non-impact magnet-based switch in computer mice, utilizing magnetic elements arranged to replicate switch-like haptics, where a first magnet moves along a predefined path under actuation, producing repulsive forces that cause haptic feedback and reducing mechanical wear, with noise levels of 30 dBA or less.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If contact-based switches are used in computer mice, then the device structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the switches suffer from wear and tear leading to unreliable performance and low signal-to-noise ratios
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical contact-based switch with a magnet-based detection system. A magnet is attached to the button, and its position is detected by a sensor (such as a Hall effect sensor or optical sensor) without physical contact. This eliminates mechanical wear and tear while maintaining the switching function, thereby improving reliability without significantly increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnet as an intermediary element between the button and the detection system. The magnet serves as a non-contact mediator that transmits the button's position information to the sensor, enabling detection without direct physical contact. This intermediary approach eliminates the need for contact-based switches, reducing wear and improving performance reliability.
2Reliability
If contact-based switches are used for click detection, then the implementation is straightforward, but repeated actuation causes wear and tear resulting in low signal-to-noise ratios
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical contact-based detection system with a magnetic field-based detection system. The magnet attached to the button interacts with a non-contact sensor (such as a Hall effect sensor or optical sensor), eliminating the need for repeated physical contact. This substitution eliminates wear and tear, maintains high signal-to-noise ratios, and is relatively straightforward to manufacture with modern components.
3Duration of action of moving object
If traditional mechanical switches are used, then the device is simple in structure, but extended use leads to wear and tear and unreliable performance characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical switch mechanism with a non-contact magnetic detection system. A magnet is attached to the button, and its position is detected by a sensor without physical contact. This eliminates the mechanical wear and tear that limits switch lifespan, enabling extended use without performance degradation. The increased complexity is minimal, as it primarily involves adding a magnet and a non-contact sensor instead of a mechanical switch assembly.
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 solution provides a more reliable and consistent click experience with reduced mechanical wear and noise, enhancing user feedback while extending the lifespan of the switch.
Implementation Method 1
a second magnet disposed proximate the predefined path such that at least a portion of a magnetic field of the second magnet extends into a medial portion of the predefined path
Implementation Method 2
repulsive forces between the first and second magnets cause the deflection plate to produce haptic feedback
Data Source
AI summary
A computer mouse with non-impact magnet-based switch. In one aspect, the switch includes a deflection plate, the deflection plate having a movable portion, a first magnet coupled on the movable portion of the deflection plate and being translatable along a predefined path, a second magnet disposed proximate the predefined path such that at least a portion of a magnetic field of the second magnet extends into a medial portion of the predefined path, where the first magnet has first and second poles, and the second magnet has third and fourth poles, the third pole facing the first pole and the fourth pole facing away from the first pole, a distance from the first pole to the third pole is less than a distance from the first pole to the fourth pole, and a polarity of the first pole is the same as the polarity of the third pole.