Multi-Force Roller Wheel for Variable Speed Scrolling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional input devices, such as mice and track balls, do not provide efficient horizontal scrolling capabilities, requiring multiple user manipulations and being time-consuming and awkward for controlling graphical objects that extend beyond the displayable width of a monitor.
Innovation Solution
A rotatable member in a mouse or input device that allows both vertical scrolling through rotation and variable speed horizontal scrolling through lateral forces, utilizing sensors and two-stage buttons to control scrolling rates based on force detection and pivot/translation movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional pointing devices are used for x-scrolling, then scrolling functionality is provided, but multiple user manipulations are required making it time-consuming and awkward
Solution Approach 1:
The roller wheel is designed to perform multiple functions: vertical scrolling through rotation, horizontal scrolling through lateral pivoting, and variable speed control through force magnitude detection. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate controls for different scrolling operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts scrolling speed based on the magnitude of lateral force applied to the roller wheel. Greater force results in faster scrolling, allowing users to quickly navigate through content by applying varying degrees of pressure rather than repeated small movements.
2Ease of operation
If traditional x-scrolling methods are used, then horizontal scrolling is achieved, but multiple GUI tools and button manipulations are required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges horizontal and vertical scrolling controls into a single roller wheel component. The same wheel that rotates for vertical scrolling also pivots laterally for horizontal scrolling, consolidating multiple control functions into one unified interface element.
Solution Approach 2:
The roller wheel serves as a universal control for all scrolling operations. By detecting both rotational movement and lateral pivoting, a single component replaces the need for separate horizontal scroll buttons, vertical scroll wheels, and scrollbar drag operations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If force detection sensors are added to the roller wheel, then variable speed scrolling is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The roller wheel itself generates the control signals for variable speed scrolling. The lateral pivoting movement of the wheel directly activates sensors that convert the physical displacement into scrolling commands, eliminating the need for separate control mechanisms or complex processing systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces complex mechanical variable speed controls with a simpler sensor-based system. Force sensing resistors or capacitive sensors detect lateral displacement of the roller wheel and convert it into electrical signals that directly control scrolling speed, substituting mechanical complexity with electronic sensing.
Data Source
AI summary
A roller device including a roller wheel configured to control scrolling of a graphical object along a first axis if the roller wheel is rotated by a user; a first sensor adjacent to a first side of the roller wheel; and a second sensor adjacent to a second side of the roller wheel; wherein the first and second sensors are configured to control a scrolling rate of the graphical object along a second axis.