Off-Axis Accelerometer Sphere for Rotation Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing human interface devices are costly and inefficient in accurately measuring the rotation and movement of a spherical input device, particularly due to the high expense of accelerometers.
Innovation Solution
A human interface device incorporating two three-axis-accelerometers located off-axis within a sphere, allowing for the detection of rotation and movement using a combination of acceleration vectors, which is more cost-effective than using a gyroscope.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a gyroscope is used to measure rotation of the spherical input device, then measurement precision is improved, but device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the measurement function into two separate components: two three-axis accelerometers measure linear acceleration, and their data is processed to derive rotational information. This segmentation replaces the single gyroscope component with multiple simpler accelerometers, reducing overall device cost while maintaining measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the mechanical gyroscope system with an accelerometer-based measurement system. By using two three-axis accelerometers positioned off-axis and processing their acceleration data through computational algorithms, the system achieves rotation measurement without requiring expensive gyroscope hardware
2Ease of manufacture
If two three-axis-accelerometers are used instead of a gyroscope, then device cost decreases, but measurement precision may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the two three-axis accelerometers off-axis rather than at the center, creating a spatial configuration that enables rotational measurement through acceleration vectors. This dimensional arrangement in three-dimensional space allows the system to detect rotation by analyzing the relationship between acceleration measurements from different spatial positions
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously processes acceleration data from both accelerometers and uses computational algorithms to derive rotational and movement information. The feedback loop involves comparing expected acceleration patterns with actual measurements to accurately determine device orientation and motion, compensating for the lack of direct gyroscope measurements
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
Enables accurate and cost-effective measurement of rotation and movement, making the device accessible for various user groups, including children, impaired individuals, and those without limbs, while also serving as an anti-stress gadget and entertainment tool.
Implementation Method 1
The movement and rotation of a ball can be determined using a gyroscope and an accelerometer. However, accelerometers may be expensive. Embodiments of the invention address this by incorporating two three-axis-accelerometers into the human interface device.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the invention provide a human interface device including an inner sphere, wherein the inner sphere has a center point. The human interface device can further include an outer sphere, and the outer sphere may be compressible. The human interface device may also include a plurality of pressure sensors between the inner sphere and the outer sphere for detecting localized compression of the outer sphere, a first three-axis-accelerometer located within the inner sphere, and a second three-axis-accelerometer located within the inner sphere, wherein the first three-axis-accelerometer and the second three-axis-accelerometer-accelerometer are each located at least a predetermined distance from the center point.