Optical Joystick Light-Shielding Portion Eliminates Swing Arm
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing joystick modules have complex structural designs that consume a lot of space, are difficult to assemble, and result in high production costs due to numerous accessories and intermediate transmission mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
An optical joystick apparatus with a simplified design that includes a housing with a PCB board, a rotatable joystick with a light-shielding portion, and optical elements for sensing, eliminating the need for a swing arm mechanism and reducing the number of accessories.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a swing arm mechanism and intermediate transmission mechanisms are used in the joystick module, then the sensing function can be achieved, but the structural complexity increases and assembly becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the swing arm mechanism and intermediate transmission mechanisms from the joystick structure, retaining only the essential light-shielding portion that directly blocks light between the light-emitting element and photosensitive element. This extraction removes unnecessary complex components while preserving the core sensing function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical swing arm transmission system with a direct optical blocking mechanism. Instead of using mechanical linkages to transmit joystick movement to a sensor, the light-shielding portion on the joystick stem directly modulates the light path, substituting a simple optical interaction for a complex mechanical transmission system.
2Reliability
If numerous accessories and intermediate transmission mechanisms are included in the joystick module, then the sensing capability is maintained, but the assembly process becomes inconvenient and production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the light-shielding function directly into the joystick stem by providing a light-shielding portion on the stem itself. This integration eliminates the need for separate swing arm components and intermediate transmission mechanisms, reducing the number of parts that need to be assembled and lowering production complexity.
3Reliability
If a complex swing arm mechanism is used in the joystick, then the sensing function works, but the space occupied increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the swing arm mechanism from the joystick structure, removing the space-consuming intermediate transmission components. Only the minimal light-shielding portion remains on the joystick stem, dramatically reducing the overall space occupied by the joystick assembly while maintaining sensing functionality.
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
The optical joystick apparatus offers easier assembly, lower production costs, improved durability, and a longer service life due to its reduced complexity and fewer components.
Implementation Method 1
a lower part of the joystick extends into the housing and is provided with a light-shielding portion, and the light-emitting element and the photosensitive element are arranged on two sides of the light-shielding portion, respectively
Implementation Method 2
a light-emitting element and a photosensitive element are provided on the PCB board
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses an optical joystick apparatus including a housing and a joystick. A PCB board is provided in the housing. A light-emitting element and a photosensitive element are provided on the PCB board. The joystick is rotatably connected to the housing. A lower part of the joystick extends into the housing and is provided with a light-shielding portion. The light-emitting element and the photosensitive element are arranged on two sides of the light-shielding portion, respectively.