Portable Game Controller Joystick With Spiral Spring Sensing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current video game controllers lack portability and universal connectivity, making them inconvenient for gamers who need to transport and use them across different platforms and systems.

Innovation Solution

A compact, portable video game controller with a detachable design that fits in a user's pocket, equipped with wireless communication and a retention mechanism for mobile devices, featuring a joystick with a spiral spring biasing mechanism and magnet-sensor interaction for precise control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional video game controllers are designed with standard size and structure, then control functionality is adequate, but portability and ease of transport deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveportabilityVSAvoidcontroller size

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The controller is divided into separate modular components including a detachable joystick assembly, button module, and connection interface. This segmentation allows the controller to be disassembled into compact parts that can be easily carried or stored in small spaces while maintaining full functionality when assembled.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The controller design transitions from traditional two-dimensional layout to a three-dimensional compact structure with vertically stacked components and folded connection elements. This dimensional optimization reduces the controller's footprint and allows it to fit in smaller spaces without compromising control surface area.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the controller is designed for specific gaming platforms, then compatibility with that platform is improved, but adaptability to other systems deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveplatform compatibilityVSAvoidconnection mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The controller incorporates a universal connection interface with multiple connection modes including wireless communication protocols and detachable physical connectors that can interface with various gaming platforms. This multi-functional design allows a single controller to work across different systems without requiring platform-specific variants.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The controller features dynamically adjustable connection mechanisms that can switch between different connection types (wireless/Wi-Fi/Bluetooth and wired USB-C) and adapt their configuration based on the target platform. This dynamic adaptability allows the same hardware to optimize its connection method for each specific gaming system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If the joystick uses traditional mechanical return mechanisms, then reliability is improved, but device thickness increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvejoystick return mechanismVSAvoidcontroller thickness

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The joystick replaces traditional mechanical spring return mechanisms with a magnetic field-based detection system. A detectable component (magnet) coupled to the joystick shaft interacts with a sensor (Hall effect sensor) to detect position, while a spiral spring provides gentle biasing force. This substitution eliminates the need for complex mechanical return springs, reducing joystick thickness while maintaining reliable center-return functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

4Adaptability or versatility

If the controller includes wireless communication capabilities, then connectivity versatility is improved, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnectivity optionsVSAvoidpower consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The controller implements dynamic power management for wireless communication, switching between Wi-Fi and Bluetooth protocols based on connection requirements and power availability. The system can dynamically adjust transmission power levels and communication frequency to minimize energy consumption while maintaining reliable connectivity across different gaming platforms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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

Enhances gaming experience by providing portability and seamless connectivity across multiple systems, ensuring consistent control and ease of use.

Implementation Method 1

a spiral spring configured to bias the joystick to a neutral position

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

a sensor configured to detect a position of the detectable component

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic field detection: Magnetic Field

Data Source

PatentUS20260007953A1Video game controller

Publication Date: 2026.01.08 AVETOS DESIGN LLC

AI summary

Systems and techniques are described herein for a human-machine interface. For instance, an apparatus for a human-machine interface is provided. The apparatus may include a body and a joystick coupled to the body, the joystick comprising: a spiral spring configured to bias the joystick to a neutral position; a detectable component coupled to the spiral spring; and a sensor configured to detect a position of the detectable component.