Magnetic Switch Assembly for Swappable Mouse Click Feel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing computer mice do not offer a versatile solution that allows users to easily swap or interchange switch assemblies to meet different usage requirements such as tactile click feel, durability, and battery life, necessitating the ownership of multiple mice for various scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A computer mouse design featuring a removable switch assembly that is magnetically coupled to a switch connector, allowing easy swapping or interchanging of switch assemblies with different configurations to meet user preferences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a computer mouse uses a fixed mechanical switch assembly, then it provides tactile click feel, but it consumes more power and reduces battery life
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a switch assembly that can dynamically change its operational state between mechanical contact and non-contact modes. The switch assembly includes a movable component that can be positioned to either physically contact the circuit board (providing tactile feedback) or be spaced apart (reducing power consumption). This dynamic configurability allows the system to adapt between tactile feedback mode and power-saving mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch assembly is designed as a separable component that can be independently adjusted or replaced. The switch assembly includes a first switch component and a second switch component that can be independently configured, allowing selective engagement with the circuit board. This segmentation enables flexible configuration where only necessary switch components are activated based on usage requirements.
2Device complexity
If a computer mouse uses a fixed switch assembly design, then it maintains structural simplicity, but it cannot meet different usage requirements for various scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
The switch assembly incorporates adjustable spacing between components, allowing the distance between the switch assembly and circuit board to be varied. This dynamic adjustment enables the same physical structure to provide different operational characteristics - closer spacing for tactile feedback applications and farther spacing for silent or power-saving applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch assembly is designed to perform multiple functions through a single unified structure. It can operate in mechanical contact mode for tactile feedback, non-contact mode for silent operation, and intermediate modes for varying power consumption. The universal design allows one switch assembly to replace multiple specialized assemblies, achieving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a computer mouse uses a removable switch assembly with magnetic coupling, then it enables easy swapping for different configurations, but it increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening mechanisms (screws, clips, or snap-fits) with magnetic coupling for attaching the switch assembly to the circuit board. The magnetic coupling includes a first magnetic component and a second magnetic component that attract each other to secure the switch assembly. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical assembly and disassembly operations, allowing users to simply snap the switch assembly into place and remove it by pulling, significantly easing the swapping process.
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
Enables users to customize their input device by swapping switch assemblies based on desired tactile click feel and characteristics without needing multiple devices, providing a simple and versatile solution.
Implementation Method 1
The switch assembly may be magnetically coupled to the switch connector in a removable manner
Data Source
Figure 1A~1D
Figure 1B
Figure 2
AI summary
An input device including a switch connector having a plurality of electrical terminals fixedly mounted to a circuit board. The input device including a switch assembly magnetically coupled to the switch connector in a removable manner. The switch assembly including a switch adapter having a plurality of contact elements in engagement with the plurality of electrical terminals of the switch connector, and a switch fitted to the switch adapter with a plurality of leads of the switch electrically connected to the plurality of contact elements of the switch adapter. The switch adapter being between the switch connector and the switch. The input device including a magnetic catch arrangement having a first catch unit at the circuit board and a second catch unit at the switch adapter which coact with each other to magnetically couple the switch assembly to the switch connector. A corresponding switch assembly thereof and a computer mouse.