Modular Computer Mouse With Interchangeable Shells
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing computer mouse designs lack flexibility in ergonomic shapes and functionality, as they require multiple manufacturing variations to accommodate different user preferences, leading to high production costs and potential mechanical inaccuracies, while existing modular solutions are limited by internal circuitry exposure and mechanical inaccuracy.
Innovation Solution
A modular system where the core module houses the microcontroller, sensor, and RF modules, with interchangeable case modules that include buttons, thumb grooves, and power sources, allowing users to customize the mouse's shape and functionality without exposing the internal circuitry, using a specially adapted connector for input and power integration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple pre-determined mouse shapes are manufactured to suit different user requirements, then user comfort and ergonomic adaptability are improved, but manufacturing complexity and production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mouse is divided into two main segments: a common base unit containing internal components (microcontroller, sensor, wireless component) and interchangeable outer shells with different ergonomic shapes. This segmentation allows the expensive internal components to be manufactured once and reused across multiple shell variations, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining ergonomic adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The base unit is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple different outer shells through a standardized interface. This multi-functionality allows a single base unit to serve multiple ergonomic purposes by simply changing the outer shell, eliminating the need to manufacture separate complete mice for each shape.
2Adaptability or versatility
If interchangeable outer shells are designed with different shapes, then user comfort is improved, but the range of shapes is limited by existing button and scroll wheel positions
Solution Approach 1:
The outer shell is designed to nest over the base unit with a standardized interface that ensures proper alignment of buttons, scroll wheel, and other input elements. This nesting approach allows different shaped shells to accommodate the same functional components without compromising their operational positions or ergonomics.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the internal PCB is designed to be unscrewed and moved between cases, then reconfigurability is improved, but the internal circuitry is exposed to users who may accidentally damage it
Solution Approach 1:
The internal PCB and sensitive circuitry are extracted from the interchangeable shell and permanently integrated into the protected base unit. This extraction ensures that users cannot accidentally damage the circuitry when changing shells, while the standardized interface maintains full reconfigurability of the external shape.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a very small mouse with larger cases placed on top is used, then different shapes are achieved, but mechanical accuracy decreases and high manufacturing tolerances are required
Solution Approach 1:
The outer shell and base unit are merged through a precise standardized interface that ensures proper alignment and mechanical accuracy. This merging approach eliminates the need for extremely high manufacturing tolerances by distributing the precision requirements across the interface design rather than requiring perfect fit between multiple separate components.
Data Source
AI summary
A customer user input device such as a computer mouse is disclosed. A core module can house the sensor, micro-controller and RF modules (if any). It may or may not also house the microswitches and scroll wheel. The core module can accept inserts having differing or variable button configurations so that the user can customize the location of the buttons in accordance with the user's intentions.