Reconfigurable Button Array Mechanism for Compact Input Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing input devices, such as arrays of push buttons, are often complicated, inadequate, or awkward to use due to a lack of compactness, cost-effectiveness, and ease of manufacture, failing to adequately address the need for sophisticated configuration adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A mechanism comprising two layers with linkages that can transform from a planar to a non-planar configuration, utilizing bi-stable biasing mechanisms and compliant linkages to move portions out of the plane, allowing for independent or dependent actuation of multiple sets of configuration-changing mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional push button arrays are used for input devices, then basic input functionality is provided, but the devices become complicated, inadequate, and awkward to use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transforming static push buttons into dynamic, reconfigurable elements that can change position and configuration. The mechanism allows buttons to transition between depressed and released states, and enables the entire array to be reconfigured into different patterns, making the input device adaptable to different operational modes and reducing complexity through multi-functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a single reconfigurable button array that can serve multiple input functions. The mechanism allows the same physical structure to be configured in different patterns (e.g., QWERTY, Dvorak, numeric keyboards), eliminating the need for multiple separate input devices or complex switch matrices, thereby simplifying the overall device complexity while enhancing ease of operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If more buttons are added to provide sophisticated input functions, then functionality is improved, but the device footprint and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by utilizing the out-of-plane movement of buttons through the compliant mechanism. Instead of expanding the footprint horizontally to add more buttons, the mechanism exploits the vertical dimension by allowing buttons to depress and reconfigure in three-dimensional space. This enables sophisticated input functionality within a compact footprint by using the third dimension for button travel and configuration changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by integrating multiple functional capabilities within a single compact structure. The reconfigurable button array nests multiple keyboard layouts and input patterns within the same physical footprint, allowing the device to provide sophisticated input functionality without increasing the external dimensions. The mechanism effectively nests different configuration states within the same spatial envelope.
3Adaptability or versatility
If reconfigurable mechanisms are implemented, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies flexible shells and thin films by using a compliant mechanism made from a flexible substrate or thin-walled structure. This compliant mechanism allows the button array to reconfigure through elastic deformation and flexing of the substrate, eliminating the need for complex mechanical linkages, motors, or actuators. The flexible substrate can be manufactured using standard fabrication techniques, thereby maintaining ease of manufacture while achieving reconfigurability.
4Area of stationary object
If compact design is pursued, then footprint is reduced, but the mechanism becomes more difficult to manufacture and less reliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements merging by combining the button structure, spring mechanism, and compliant substrate into a single integrated assembly. The compliant mechanism merges multiple functional elements (buttons, springs, linkages) into one monolithic or closely-integrated structure that can be manufactured as a single piece or pre-assembled unit. This merging simplifies manufacturing while achieving compact footprint, as it eliminates the need for separate components and complex assembly procedures.
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 solution provides a lightweight, cost-effective, and reconfigurable apparatus capable of creating complex contours and textures, enhancing user interaction by enabling multiple positions or patterns on a surface to be independently or dependently moved, thus improving the usability and functionality of input devices.
Implementation Method 1
bi-stable biasing mechanism for biasing the second layer into each of the two stable positions relative to the first layer
Implementation Method 2
The layers may be compliant, and the linkage may include a portion of at least one of the first and second layers
Data Source
AI summary
Configuration-adjusting mechanisms include linkages interconnecting first and second layers of a sheet material. The linkages have hinges positioned and oriented to cause motion of at least a portion of the linkages out of a plane of the first and second layers when the mechanisms are actuated. An apparatus, system, and method include one or more of the mechanisms for changing a contour of a surface provided by a cover overlying the mechanisms. An array of mechanisms or mechanisms corresponding to an array of positions on the surface may be selectively actuated to change the contour or texture of the surface. The array of mechanisms for changing the contour can provide user interface buttons selectively actuated by the mechanisms, which cause the buttons to emerge from the surface. A reconfigurable contour may be provided by selectable sets of the buttons associated with respective functions of a control panel, for example.