Ergonomic Mouse With Segmented Palm-Rest and Haptic Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional computer input devices, such as mice, cause wrist strain and are inefficient for visually impaired users due to inadequate ergonomic design and limited haptic feedback, leading to inaccurate navigation and selection on computer screens.
Innovation Solution
A computer mouse with a ergonomic design featuring a palm-rest, mechanical joints, and position sensors that allow for haptic feedback without moving the palm-rest, providing support for the palm and fingers, and enabling precise navigation and selection through adjustable finger-rests and haptic modules that provide tactile feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional mouse design with palm-rest is used, then basic navigation function is provided, but wrist strain and carpal tunnel syndrome occur due to unsupported palm position
Solution Approach 1:
The palm-rest is divided into multiple support zones including a first support surface for the palm and a second support surface for the fingers, with mechanical joints providing additional segmented support points. This segmentation allows different parts of the hand to be supported at optimal positions, eliminating wrist strain while maintaining navigation functionality.
2Measurement precision
If haptic feedback is provided through conventional pin-matrix devices, then tactile information is delivered, but device size becomes bulky and resolution remains low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from mechanical pin-matrix haptic feedback to electroactive polymer-based haptic feedback, changing the physical state and mechanism of the haptic elements. This allows for higher resolution tactile feedback with smaller, more densely packed actuation elements, improving measurement precision while reducing device volume.
3Loss of information
If multiple tactile elements are provided for haptic feedback, then more information can be conveyed, but user can only access elements directly under fingers, reducing efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides haptic feedback at multiple locations simultaneously through the electroactive polymer array, allowing users to receive tactile information from across the entire GUI rather than just under their fingers. This comprehensive feedback mechanism reduces information loss and improves navigation efficiency by enabling parallel access to multiple interface elements.
4Measurement precision
If conventional haptic mouse is used, then limited tactile feedback is provided, but navigation accuracy and selection precision are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite materials including electroactive polymers combined with conductive elements and support structures to create a multi-functional haptic interface. This composite approach enables precise tactile feedback for accurate selection while maintaining structural integrity and providing rich tactile information for improved navigation precision.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a computer mouse and a method for operating the computer mouse, with the computer mouse including a palm-rest on a first side thereof, a baseplate on a second side substantially opposite the first side, hinges positioned along an edge of the palm-rest, and finger-rests, with each finger-rest fixedly attached to one end of a respective hinge.