Reconfigurable Controller Interface with Modular Input Controls

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current videogame controllers suffer from ergonomic issues, limiting user customization and comfort during gameplay.

Innovation Solution

A modular controller design with interchangeable input controls and interface ports, allowing users to customize the controller configuration to fit their needs, including removably attached joysticks, paddles, and buttons, which can be rotated and secured using conductive and communicative coupling mechanisms.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed controller design is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the ergonomics and user customization options are limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontroller customizationVSAvoidcontroller structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The controller is divided into modular components including interchangeable input controls (joysticks, paddles, buttons) and separate interface ports. Each module can be independently manufactured and then assembled or detached as needed, allowing customization without requiring complete redesign of the entire controller structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The interface ports are designed with universal coupling mechanisms that can accommodate multiple types of input controls. The same port structure can receive different modules (joysticks, paddles, buttons) through standardized attachment interfaces, enabling one controller body to support multiple control configurations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If modular components are added for customization, then user comfort and adaptability improve, but the device complexity and number of parts increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveuser comfortVSAvoidnumber of parts

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The controller transitions from a static fixed design to a dynamic reconfigurable system where components can be changed during gameplay. The attachment and detachment mechanisms allow users to quickly switch between different input control configurations without complex assembly procedures, maintaining ease of operation despite increased modularity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If interchangeable input controls are implemented, then control configuration flexibility improves, but the reliability of connections may deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol configurationVSAvoidconnection stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The interface ports and input controls are pre-equipped with alignment features and coupling mechanisms that guide proper insertion and secure attachment before use. The conductive and communicative coupling mechanisms are pre-configured to ensure reliable electrical and data connections are established automatically when modules are attached, preventing connection issues before they occur.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11628352B2Two-axis controller interface with reconfigurable orientation

Publication Date: 2023.04.18 SONY INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT LLC

AI summary

A controller device comprises a controller body that includes one or more interface ports, at least which is a control information output port. A joystick coupled to the controller body has an axis control orientation that is configurable relative to the controller body.