Optical Scrolling Module Prism Segmentation for Mass Production
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical scrolling modules for mice are not suitable for mass production due to their integrated design, resulting in higher production costs and limited adaptability to different mouse shapes.
Innovation Solution
The optical scrolling module consists of a prism, a light source, an image sensor, and a condenser, where the light source and image sensor are disposed on a circuit board, allowing for flexibility in housing shapes and enabling mass production by separating components, and a second condenser can be added for improved light condensation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If all elements (light source, lens, CMOS image sensor) are integrated into one piece, then the optical scrolling module can be applied to a specific housing shape, but the production cost increases and adaptability to different housing shapes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical scrolling module into separate components: the optical element (prism or lens) is separated from the light source and image sensor. The optical element is integrated into the transparent plate, while the light source and image sensor remain on the circuit board. This segmentation allows the optical element to be adapted to different housing shapes without requiring redesign of the entire module, thereby reducing production costs and improving adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the optical scrolling module is designed as an integrated piece, then structural stability is improved, but the module cannot be easily adapted to different mouse shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the optical element (prism or lens) to be integrated into the transparent plate, which serves multiple functions: it acts as both the optical element and the transparent cover of the housing. This universal design allows the same optical element to be used across different housing shapes and types of electrical products, improving adaptability while maintaining structural stability through the integrated transparent plate design.
3Ease of manufacture
If the light source and image sensor are disposed on the circuit board, then mass production is enabled and production cost is reduced, but additional components (condensers) may be needed for optimal performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the optical element (prism or lens) with the transparent plate into a single integrated component. This merging eliminates the need for separate optical element housings and reduces the total number of components. The light source and image sensor remain on the circuit board for mass production benefits, while the integrated optical element-plate combination simplifies assembly and reduces part count, thereby managing device 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
This design reduces production costs by allowing the module to be applied to multiple mouse shapes and types of electrical products, functioning as a button or pointing device, while ensuring clear optical signal reception through controlled depth of field and refractive index.
Implementation Method 1
The light source is disposed on the circuit board for providing a light beam, the image sensor is disposed on the circuit board
Implementation Method 2
the light beam is transmitted to the reflective surface via the light incident surface and is reflected to the contact surface by the reflective surface
Implementation Method 3
When an object having a pattern structure contacts the contact surface, the light beam transmitted to the contact surface is scattered and then a portion of the light beam is transmitted to the image sensor
Implementation Method 4
the first condenser is disposed between the image sensor and the prism
Implementation Method 5
When the object is removed from the contact surface, the light beam is reflected to the light emitting surface by the contact surface
Data Source
AI summary
An optical scrolling module includes a prism, a light source, an image sensor and a first condenser. The prism is disposed at an opening of an upper shell of a mouse and has a light incident surface, a reflective surface, a contact surface and a light emitting surface. The contact and light incident surfaces are respectively connected between the reflective and light emitting surfaces. The contact surface is exposed by the opening. A light beam from the light source is transmitted to the contact surface via the light incident and reflective surfaces. When an object with a pattern structure puts on the contact surface, the light beam is scattered and a portion of the light beam is transmitted to the image sensor via the first condenser. When the object is removed from the contact surface, the light beam is reflected to the light emitting surface by the contact surface.