Optical Integrated Key with Semicircle Reflection Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing eight-direction buttons lack the flexibility to perform more subdivided manipulation, especially around a center point, which is necessary for advanced navigation systems and computer games requiring precise control beyond basic directional movements.
Innovation Solution
An integrated key using an optical sensor with a housing, operation member, and supporting member, which includes a guide unit, elastic body, and reflection unit, allowing for precise measurement of separation distances and rotation to output sensing signals for nuanced movement and rotation operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an eight-direction button is used for basic directional manipulation, then the device structure remains simple, but the manipulation precision and control flexibility are insufficient for advanced navigation and gaming applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensing functions (rotation detection, push detection, and 2D position detection) into a single integrated key device. The operation member integrates a reflection unit that works with optical sensors to detect both rotational movements and linear push movements, eliminating the need for separate buttons for different manipulation types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a new dimension of detection capability by incorporating an optical sensor system that measures separation distances in addition to rotation angles. This enables the detection of push movements toward the sensor and away from the sensor, creating a third degree of freedom (radial movement) beyond the traditional rotational plane.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional mechanical buttons are used for navigation control, then the device complexity is low, but the control flexibility for subdivided manipulation from center point is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The operation member serves multiple functions: it can be rotated to change direction, pushed to activate functions, and its position can be detected in 2D space. The reflection unit combined with optical sensors enables the same component to provide both angular and linear measurement capabilities, making the device versatile for various manipulation types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical switch mechanisms with an optical sensing system. Instead of using mechanical contacts or levers to detect button presses, the invention uses optical sensors to detect changes in separation distance and rotation angle, providing more precise and wear-free detection.
3Measurement precision
If only rotation sensing is implemented in the key device, then the device structure remains simple, but the ability to detect subdivided movement directions and distances is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The reflection unit acts as an intermediary between the operation member and the optical sensor. It reflects light from the optical sensor back to the sensor, enabling the detection of both rotation and linear movement. This intermediary component allows the optical sensor to measure separation distances and detect push movements without requiring direct contact with the operation member.
4Ease of operation
If an optical sensor system is added to measure separation distances and enable push detection, then the manipulation precision improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensing functions (rotation detection, push detection, and 2D position detection) into a single integrated key device. The operation member integrates a reflection unit that works with optical sensors to detect both rotational movements and linear push movements, eliminating the need for separate buttons for different manipulation types.
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 2-dimensional subdivided manipulation from a center point, providing more precise control over electronic devices by accurately measuring movement distances and directions, enhancing user interaction in navigation and gaming applications.
Implementation Method 1
an optical sensor, which measures one or more of a separation distance with the reflection
Implementation Method 2
a reflection unit which has one or more semicircle motifs formed at a bottom surface
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an integrated key using an optical key, in particular, to an integrated key which enables a more subdivided manipulation for the movement to the outside based on a center point, and to perform the operation of rotation and push. An integrated key using an optical sensor of the invention includes a housing which has an accommodation space inside while an upper portion is open; an operation member which has a guide unit which sticks to the housing between an upper end and a lower end of the operation member while a handle is formed in an upper side and a reflection unit is formed at a bottom surface; and an optical sensor which measures one or more of a separation distance with the reflection a rotation of the operation member, and a location coordinate value of the operation member, and outputs a sensing signal according to the measurement.