Mouse Input Device Adjustable Click Force Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users are limited by the fixed click force of micro-switches in existing mice, which can lead to accidental clicks and inadequate tactile feel for gaming requirements, as they cannot adjust the click force or tactile feedback to suit their preferences.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable mechanism is introduced in the mouse, allowing users to customize the click force and tactile feel through a biasing element with a user-adjustable element, such as a screw or sliding mechanism, that modifies the pretension of the biasing element, enabling users to change the click force and tactile feedback to suit their gaming needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed click force is set for a micro-switch at the manufacturer level, then the device structure is simple and reliable, but the user cannot alter the click force and is limited to the default setting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic adjustment mechanism that allows the click force to be changed from a fixed value to an adjustable range. The adjustable mechanism includes components such as a screw, sliding member, or spring system that enables users to modify the pretension of the biasing element, thereby changing the click force according to their preferences while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of the biasing element (pretension force) to achieve different click forces. By adjusting the pretension of the spring through a simple mechanical mechanism, the system can provide multiple click force levels without requiring multiple different micro-switches or complex electronic control systems
2Ease of operation
If the click force is too low, then the operation is easier and lighter, but accidental clicks increase and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable mechanism allows users to dynamically change the click force threshold. Users can set the click force to a lower value for easier operation during normal use, or increase it when accidental clicks become a problem, thereby adapting the system to different operational requirements and maintaining both ease of operation and reliability as needed
3Reliability
If the click force is too high, then accidental clicks are reduced and reliability improves, but the operation becomes more difficult and click speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable mechanism enables users to optimize the click force for different tasks. For gaming or rapid clicking scenarios, users can lower the click force to achieve higher click speeds. For tasks requiring precision and preventing accidental clicks, users can increase the click force. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between reliability and productivity
4Adaptability or versatility
If an adjustable mechanism is added to allow users to modify click force, then adaptability and user customization improve, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable mechanism is designed as a separate, modular component that can be independently manufactured and then assembled into the mouse. This segmentation allows the main production line to remain simple while the adjustment mechanism can be produced separately and installed during final assembly, reducing the impact on manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a simple mechanical intermediary element (such as a screw, sliding member, or spring) that acts as a mediator between the user's adjustment action and the biasing element. This intermediary mechanism is designed to be simple in principle but effective in function, allowing complex functionality to be achieved through a relatively simple structural addition
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
This customization reduces accidental clicks and allows for higher click speeds, enhancing gaming performance by allowing users to tailor the click force and tactile feedback to their preferences, particularly beneficial for games like MOBA and RTS.
Implementation Method 1
an adjustable mechanism located between the switch actuator and the base of the mouse, the adjustable mechanism having a biasing element
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
According to various embodiments, an input device may be provided. The input device may include: a housing having an upper portion and a lower portion; a key top provided at the upper portion; a lever member coupled to the lower portion via a joint; a plunger; and a switch including a depressible portion coupleable to the key top via the lever member and the plunger; wherein the plunger is coupleable to the lever member at a distance from the joint which is different from a distance from the joint at which the depressible portion is coupleable to the lever member.