Omnidirectional Game Input Handle With Press-Anywhere Switch Action
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-directional input devices for game machines cannot be pressed within their 360-degree movement range, leading to poor user experience.
Innovation Solution
A multi-directional input device that allows sliding in a horizontal 360-degree omnidirectional range and pressing to trigger switch signals, featuring a disc-shaped first sliding member, elastic pieces for return motion, and orthogonally arranged second and third sliding members connected to a circuit board for precise control and switch activation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the input device is designed to rotate within a 360-degree range, then the movement range is improved, but the ability to press at any position within the movement range is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The input device is segmented into multiple independent sliding members (first sliding member for 360-degree rotation, second sliding member for X-direction pressing, third sliding member for Y-direction pressing). Each segment handles a specific function, allowing the device to achieve both omnidirectional movement and pressing capability at any position within the movement range.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-dimensional rotational movement to a multi-dimensional structure by adding orthogonal sliding members. The first sliding member provides 360-degree rotation, while the second and third sliding members add X and Y directional pressing dimensions, enabling pressing capability at any position within the 360-degree range.
2Ease of operation
If multiple sliding members are added to enable pressing at any position, then the pressing capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple sliding members (first, second, and third sliding members) are merged into a single integrated assembly that moves together as one unit. The first sliding member rotates 360 degrees while the second and third sliding members slide orthogonally, and all are combined with elastic pieces and contact elements to form a unified structure that reduces overall complexity despite the multiple moving components.
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: the first sliding member enables 360-degree omnidirectional movement, the second and third sliding members enable pressing in X and Y directions, and the elastic pieces provide both pressing force and return motion. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms, thereby controlling complexity.
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 stable sliding and pressing actions across a 360-degree range, providing precise control and accurate displacement feedback, enhancing user experience by allowing full-range input functionality.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic piece, arranged on an outer periphery of the first sliding member and configured to push the first sliding member back to an origin position
Implementation Method 2
a coil spring, configured to push the push member upward
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a multi-directional input device. The device includes: an upper case, defining an opening part in a center of a top part; a first operating member, protruding from the opening part and including a flange; a first sliding member, defining a first opening; an elastic piece, arranged on an outer periphery of the first sliding member and configured to push the first sliding member back to an origin position; a second and third sliding members sliding in X and Y directions, respectively; a first and second movable contacts provided on the second the third sliding members, respectively; a circuit board, including a first and second fixed contacts; a push member including a flat part in contact with the flange and a boss; a coil spring, pushing the push member upward; a first support, configured to hold the push member at an upper limit position; and a lower case.