Modular Input Device With Hall Sensor And Integrated Connector

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing input device modules require additional conductive structures to transmit electrical signals to the host, leading to increased complexity and costs when integrated.

Innovation Solution

An input device comprising a circuit board with a Hall sensor and modular input components that eliminate the need for additional conductive structures by using magnetic interactions and connection terminals for signal transmission, allowing for modular assembly and replacement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If additional conductive structures are used to transmit electrical signals from module to host, then signal transmission is achieved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal transmissionVSAvoidoverall structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the signal transmission function into the existing mechanical connection structure. The connection terminals are integrated into the connector that already mechanically couples the module to the host, eliminating the need for separate conductive structures. This is achieved by incorporating contact elements directly into the connector body, so that a single component performs both mechanical support and electrical signal transmission functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If additional conductive structures are used to transmit electrical signals from module to host, then signal transmission is achieved, but manufacturing costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal transmissionVSAvoidmanufacturing costs
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple functions into a single connector component, reducing the total part count and assembly steps. By integrating signal transmission capabilities into the existing mechanical connector, the design eliminates separate conductive structures, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining reliable electrical connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: mechanical coupling, structural support, and electrical signal transmission. This multi-functional design reduces the need for additional specialized components, simplifying the bill of materials and reducing overall manufacturing costs while ensuring reliable signal transmission.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of repair

If modular input components are used, then ease of replacement is improved, but connection complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodule replacementVSAvoidconnection structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the input device into modular components that can be independently replaced. The connector is designed with standardized interfaces that allow individual modules to be detached and reattached without affecting other parts of the system. This segmentation enables easy replacement while keeping each module's connection interface simple and standardized.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

Simplifies the overall structure, reduces costs, and enables easy module replacement while maintaining effective signal transmission and identification by the processor.

Implementation Method 1

The Hall sensor is disposed on the circuit board. When the rotating portion is rotated, the magnet portion is rotated with the rotating portion, and changes in magnetic field are detected by the Hall sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHall effect: Hall Effect

Data Source

PatentUS12026329B1Input device and mouse including input device
Publication Date: 2024.07.02 PRIMAX ELECTRONICS LTD
  • US12026329B1 patent drawing
  • US12026329B1 patent drawing
  • US12026329B1 patent drawing

AI summary

An input device is provided, which includes a circuit board, a Hall sensor and an input module. The circuit board has a processor and a connector electrically connected to the processor, in which the connector has a plurality of connection terminals. The Hall sensor is disposed on the circuit board. The input module is configured to be assembled on or removed from the circuit board. The input module has a connecting portion, in which when the input module is assembled on the circuit board, the connecting portion touches one group of the connection terminals, and a set of signals is outputted to the processor for the processor to identify the input module. A mouse including the above-mentioned input device is also provided.