Magnetic Retractable Buttons for Adaptive Game Controller Layouts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing user input devices, such as gaming controllers, often have a fixed number of buttons that can confuse users with varying game requirements, leading to difficulty in learning which buttons to use and potential misuse due to accessibility of unnecessary buttons.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of retractable buttons in user input devices using magnets, coils, and spacers to dynamically change button configuration based on application needs, allowing buttons to be raised or lowered to enable or disable functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed number of buttons are provided on the user input device, then the device structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but users experience confusion and difficulty in learning which buttons to use when game requirements vary
Solution Approach 1:
The button mechanism transitions from a static fixed configuration to a dynamic reconfigurable system. Each button can be independently actuated between extended and retracted positions through electromagnetic actuators, allowing the controller to adapt its button configuration based on different game requirements while maintaining a compact physical form factor.
Solution Approach 2:
The button structure employs a nested arrangement where the cap, spacer, and button body are concentrically arranged around a central actuator assembly. The electromagnetic actuator is positioned within the button body, and the spacer is positioned around the actuator, creating a compact nested structure that enables reconfiguration without significantly increasing overall device volume.
2Ease of operation
If all buttons are always accessible, then users can access all functions at any time, but unnecessary buttons cause confusion and potential misuse
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts or removes unnecessary buttons from the accessible position by retracting them into the controller body. Only the buttons required for the current game or application remain extended and accessible to the user, effectively filtering out irrelevant controls and reducing cognitive load while maintaining full functionality when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The button accessibility is made dynamic rather than static. Buttons can be extended or retracted based on real-time game requirements, allowing the system to adapt the accessible button set to match the current gameplay context, thereby eliminating confusion about which buttons are relevant without permanently removing any functions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If retractable buttons are implemented using magnets, coils, and spacers, then button configuration can be dynamically changed, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnetic actuator assembly serves multiple functions: it provides the retractable mechanism, establishes magnetic fields for actuation, and integrates with the button's haptic feedback structure. The spacer component simultaneously provides mechanical support, defines magnetic field geometry, and enables haptic feedback through its interaction with the magnetic components, reducing the total number of separate parts needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The design merges the actuator, magnetic components, and haptic feedback elements into a single integrated button assembly. The coil and magnets are positioned within the button body structure, and the spacer serves both mechanical and magnetic functions, consolidating multiple subsystems into a unified component that simplifies assembly and manufacturing processes.
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
Enhances user experience by providing customizable button configurations that align with game requirements, reducing confusion and improving interaction efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The controller can be configured to extend the cap by applying a first current to the coil to generate a magnetic field that repels the first magnet and attracts the second magnet and to retract the cap by applying a second current to the coil to generate a magnetic field that attracts the first magnet and repels the second magnet
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure describes systems, devices, apparatuses, and methods of retracting or extending a button, such as a depressible button, pad, joystick, trigger, or bumper. The button can include a movable structure with magnets at two positions and a coil that can be energized to create a magnetic field. The button can be configured to retract when a current is applied to the coil, and to extend when a different current is applied to the coil. The button can include a magnetic core that can latch to a magnet when the button is retracted and that can latch to a different magnet when the button is extended. In some configurations, the button is configured to retract or extend relative to a printed circuit board, a housing, or both.