Magnetic Roller Module for Silent, Motor-Free Scroll Mode Switching

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional roller modules in mice generate unpleasant noises when switching between step and smooth scrolling modes, and their switching mechanisms require a motor that occupies valuable internal space, restricting the layout of other components.

Innovation Solution

A roller module utilizing a pole-reversible magnetic element, swinging element, and magnetization member to switch between scrolling modes silently, with reduced abrasion and increased operational life, and without the need for a motor, allowing for a more compact design.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a motor is used to switch the operation mode of the roller module, then the switching function is achieved, but the internal space of the mouse device is occupied and the layout space of other components is restricted

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperation mode switchingVSAvoidinternal space occupation

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the motor-based mechanical switching system with a magnetic interaction system. The pole-reversible magnetic element interacts with magnetic elements on the swinging element to switch between step scrolling and smooth scrolling modes, eliminating the need for a motor and reducing space occupation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts and removes the motor component from the switching mechanism. By using magnetic fields instead of mechanical motors, the design eliminates the motor's volume and associated mechanical components, thereby freeing up internal space for other mouse components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the operation mode of the roller module is switched between step scrolling mode and smooth scrolling mode, then the functionality is enhanced, but unpleasant noises are generated inside the mouse

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvescrolling mode switchingVSAvoidnoise generation

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical contact-based switching with a magnetic field-based system. The pole-reversible magnetic element uses magnetic attraction and repulsion forces to move the swinging element, eliminating mechanical contact and friction that generate noise during mode switching.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces magnetic fields as an intermediary between the control system and the swinging element. Instead of direct mechanical actuation, the magnetic field mediates the interaction, enabling smooth, noiseless switching between scrolling modes through magnetic attraction and repulsion forces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a motor is used for mode switching, then the switching function is provided, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemode switching capabilityVSAvoidswitching mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the complex motor-based switching mechanism with a simpler magnetic interaction system. The pole-reversible magnetic element and swinging element with magnetic elements provide mode switching through magnetic fields, reducing mechanical complexity and the number of components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent removes the motor and its associated control mechanisms from the design. By extracting the motor component, the system achieves mode switching with fewer parts and lower complexity, relying instead on magnetic field interactions between the pole-reversible magnetic element and the swinging element.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

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

The solution reduces noise generation, enhances switching smoothness, extends product life, and saves power while maintaining a compact form factor.

Implementation Method 1

a magnetic attraction force between the second magnetic element and the plural tooth tips of the magnetization member is larger than a magnetic attraction force between the second magnetic element and the plural tooth roots of the magnetization member

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction force: Magnetism

Implementation Method 2

The pole-reversible magnetic element and the first magnetic element interact with each other

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic interaction: Magnetism

Implementation Method 3

due to the cooperation of the swinging element and a ball bearing, the abrasion is reduced

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRolling contact: Ball Bearing

Data Source

PatentUS12393291B2Roller module and input device with same

Publication Date: 2025.08.19 PRIMAX ELECTRONICS LTD

AI summary

A roller module includes a scroll wheel, a magnetization member, a swinging element and a pole-reversible magnetic element. The magnetization member is synchronously rotated with the scroll wheel. The swinging element includes a pivotal part, a first magnetic element and a second magnetic element. The first magnetic element and the second magnetic element are movable by using the pivotal part as a rotation center. The pole-reversible magnetic element and the first magnetic element interact with each other. Consequently, the second magnetic element is close to or away from the magnetization member.