Computer Mouse Input Mobility Control Using Magnetorheological Braking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing input devices, such as computer mice, lack intuitive operability and ergonomic comfort, leading to reduced productivity and increased error frequency due to inadequate control over input element mobility.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a magnetorheological braking apparatus to adjust the mobility of input elements, allowing for targeted delay, blocking, or enabling of input element movement based on input conditions, enhancing user support and operability through bidirectional communication with the computing apparatus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the input element mobility is fixed, then the device structure is simple, but the operability and ergonomics are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the mobility of the input element dynamically adjustable through a magnetorheological braking apparatus. The braking effect can be varied in real-time based on input conditions, allowing the device to adapt its mechanical characteristics during operation rather than maintaining a fixed structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of mobility by using a magnetorheological medium whose viscosity can be altered through magnetic field strength. By adjusting the braking effect parameter, the system transforms the input element's mobility from a fixed property to a variable one, resolving the contradiction between simple structure and good operability.
2Ease of operation
If the input element mobility is adjustable, then the ergonomics and intuitiveness improve, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms with a magnetorheological braking apparatus controlled by magnetic fields. This substitution eliminates the need for mechanical linkages, gears, or physical adjustment components, achieving mobility control through electromagnetic fields instead of mechanical systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetorheological medium acts as an intermediary between the control system and the input element. Instead of directly mechanically controlling the input element's mobility, the system uses the magnetorheological fluid as a mediator that translates electromagnetic control signals into mechanical resistance changes.
3Productivity
If the mobility is dynamically adjusted, then the productivity increases, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by adjusting the braking effect in discrete steps or phases based on input conditions rather than continuous adjustment. The magnetorheological braking apparatus can switch between different braking levels (e.g., free movement, partial braking, complete blocking) in response to detected input states, reducing unnecessary energy consumption while maintaining productivity.
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 solution significantly improves the intuitive operation and comfort of input devices by dynamically adjusting input element mobility, reducing error frequency and enhancing productivity through haptic feedback and adaptive control.
Implementation Method 1
at least one field-sensitive magnetorheological medium (34) and at least one field generation device (24) for generating and controlling a field strength
Data Source
AI summary
A method for operating an input device. An input element of the input device is manually operated to perform an input into a computer device operatively connected to the input device. Mobility of the input element can be selectively delayed, blocked, and enabled by a controllable magneto-rheological braking device. The mobility of the input element is selectively adjusted by the computer device at least as a function of at least one input condition stored in the computer device. The input device may be a computer mouse.