Gaming Pedal Assembly Quick-Change Piston and Strain Gauge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Contemporary gaming pedal systems face challenges in easily tunable resistance profiles and accurate force detection, with current methods being complex, time-consuming, and prone to inaccuracies due to sensor placement and implementation.
Innovation Solution
A gaming pedal assembly featuring a quick-change piston assembly with dampening units and a strain gauge integrated into the cross-pin, allowing users to rapidly change resistance profiles without special tools and providing accurate force detection through structural modifications that enhance deformation measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional sensor placement and implementation methods are used, then force detection can be achieved, but measurement precision and reliability are compromised due to inaccuracies and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional electrical force sensors with a mechanical strain gauge system integrated into the cross-pin structure. The strain gauge detects physical deformation of the cross-pin under load, converting mechanical force directly into measurable strain without complex sensor assemblies. This mechanical substitution simplifies the system while improving measurement accuracy through direct structural measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The strain gauge is merged with the cross-pin structure itself, making the structural component also the sensing element. The cross-pin serves dual functions: providing mechanical support for the piston assembly and serving as the measurement element for force detection. This integration eliminates separate sensor mounting and reduces implementation complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If resistance profile adjustment is made possible, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional components and adjustment mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables resistance profile adjustment by allowing users to change the dampening units within the piston assembly. Different dampening units with varying resistance characteristics can be installed to create different resistance profiles. This parameter change approach provides adaptability without requiring complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms, as the resistance is modified by swapping standardized components rather than adjusting existing ones.
Solution Approach 2:
The piston assembly is designed with a quick-release mechanism that allows dynamic reconfiguration of the resistance profile during operation or between uses. The ability to quickly swap dampening units provides adaptability while maintaining simplicity, as the mechanism uses straightforward mechanical release and replacement rather than complex adjustment systems.
3Ease of operation
If quick-release architecture is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase to ensure proper fit and function
Solution Approach 1:
The quick-release mechanism uses an intermediary locking feature between the piston assembly and cross-pin. This intermediary element provides a defined engagement point that guides proper alignment during installation, reducing the precision requirements for the main mating surfaces. The locking feature acts as a mediator that ensures correct positioning without requiring extremely tight tolerances across all contact surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The design incorporates a compression fit that provides a controlled engagement sequence. The piston assembly is designed to compress slightly during installation, providing a cushioning effect that absorbs manufacturing variations and ensures proper fit. This beforehand cushioning through controlled compression allows for easier operation while maintaining adequate manufacturing tolerances.
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 users to easily and quickly adjust resistance profiles and improves force detection accuracy, enhancing user experience and simulation fidelity with reduced complexity and time.
Implementation Method 1
one or more dampening units configured within the cylinder housing... the one or more dampening units provide the resistance profile
Implementation Method 2
The one or more dampening units can be comprised of polyurethane blocks, one or more mechanical springs, foam, sponge, elastomer
Implementation Method 3
a strain gauge can be coupled to the cross pin at a second location opposite the first location and configured to detect an amount of deformation of the cross pin that corresponds to an amount of force applied to the user interface region
Implementation Method 4
the piston assembly compresses according to the resistance profile of the piston assembly in response to the user interface region of the second end of the pedal arm receiving a pressing force
Data Source
AI summary
In certain embodiments, a gaming pedal assembly comprises a base platform and a pedal arm rotatably coupled to the base platform at a first mounting location that provides a first axis of rotation for the pedal arm relative to the base platform. The gaming pedal assembly further includes a piston assembly having a resistance profile, the piston assembly coupled to the pedal arm at a coupling location that provides a second axis of rotation for the piston assembly relative to the pedal arm. The piston assembly is rotatably coupled to the base platform at a second mounting location that provides a third axis of rotation for the piston assembly relative to the base platform. The piston assembly compresses according to the resistance profile of the piston assembly in response to a user interface region of the pedal arm receiving a pressing force.