Magnetic Directional Control Element for Precise Neutral Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Spring force mechanisms in directional control elements of user input devices reduce accuracy and increase uncertainty of the neutral rest position, making it difficult to achieve precise movements.
Innovation Solution
The use of magnetic force to bias a directional control element toward predetermined positions, providing a 'reverse spring' effect that holds the element in specific positions, including the neutral rest position and positions spaced away from it, using complementary magnetic elements on the control element and the device body.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If spring force is used to return the directional control element to neutral position, then the control element can be returned to a rest position, but the accuracy of movement decreases as the joystick is moved farther from the starting position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical spring force system with a magnetic field system. Magnets are positioned to create magnetic force fields that guide the directional control element back to the neutral position, eliminating the linear spring force that causes accuracy degradation with displacement distance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the force characteristic parameter from linear spring force (which increases with displacement) to magnetic force (which can be configured to provide consistent guiding force). By adjusting magnet position and strength, the magnetic force parameters are optimized to maintain accuracy across the full range of motion while still providing reliable return to neutral.
2Stability of the object's composition
If spring force is used in combination with frictional forces, then the control element can be held in position, but an area of uncertainty surrounds the neutral position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the spring-friction mechanism with a magnetic field system. The magnetic force provides smooth, continuous guidance without the abrupt engagement and uncertainty zones characteristic of spring-friction systems. The magnetic field creates a well-defined neutral position without surrounding uncertainty areas.
3Reliability
If a relatively large area of control element positions is recognized as neutral position, then the uncertainty is reduced, but the sensitivity of the directional control element decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic force field parameters are configured to create a narrow, well-defined neutral position zone. The magnetic gradient can be optimized to provide strong guiding force that quickly converges to a precise neutral point, allowing the system to recognize a small positional area as neutral while maintaining high sensitivity for detecting directional input.
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 approach enhances the accuracy and reduces positional uncertainty, allowing for precise and sensitive user inputs by maintaining the control element in defined positions with reduced frictional forces, facilitating fine movements and accurate control.
Implementation Method 1
a magnet configured to hold the directional control element in one or more predetermined positions
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments for a user input device are disclosed. In one embodiment, a user input device comprises a body, an elongate directional control element having a first end projecting towards the body and a second end projecting away from the body and configured to be movable by a user, a magnet to hold the directional control element in one or more predetermined positions, and a sensor coupled to the body to detect a change in position of the directional control element.