Reconfigurable Mouse With Modular Case And Multi-Pivot System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Contemporary input devices, such as computer mice and keyboards, face issues with wear and tear due to repeated contact-based actuation, leading to unreliable performance and low signal-to-noise ratios, which are unacceptable for discerning users, particularly in gaming communities.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable computer mouse design featuring a modular structure with a base module and a case module that can be easily swapped, utilizing a magnetic attaching system and a multi-pivot system with spring loading to provide robust pivotability and secure attachment, allowing users to customize shape, size, and orientation without tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If contact-based switches are used for click detection, then the input device can detect button presses, but the switches are subject to wear-and-tear over extended use leading to unreliable performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces contact-based mechanical switches with optical sensing technology. The optical sensor detects button presses by measuring changes in light reflection or transmission when a button is depressed, eliminating mechanical contact between moving parts. This substitution removes the wear-and-tear issue inherent in mechanical switches while maintaining reliable click detection capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a modular design with swappable case modules is implemented, then user customization and adaptability are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the mouse into distinct modular components: a base module containing the optical sensor and electronics, and interchangeable case modules that provide different shapes, sizes, and ergonomics. The case modules attach to the base module through a standardized interface, allowing users to swap cases to match different hand sizes and preferences without replacing the entire device. This segmentation enables customization while keeping the core functional module simple and reusable.
3Reliability
If a locking system is added to secure case modules, then attachment reliability is improved, but the ease of operation for swapping modules decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a spring-loaded locking mechanism that automatically engages when a case module is attached to the base module. The spring pre-compresses during attachment and automatically triggers the lock to secure the connection, eliminating the need for manual locking actions. Users simply snap the case onto the base, and the preliminary spring action completes the securing process automatically, maintaining ease of operation while ensuring reliable attachment.
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 modular design enhances durability and user customization, improving reliability and performance by minimizing wear and tear while allowing for easy adaptation to different hand shapes and preferences, thus providing a more stable and customizable input experience.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic attaching system includes a first magnet disposed in the cover and a second magnet disposed in the case module, and the first and second magnets are arranged such that when the case module is placed on the base module, the first and second magnets magnetically attract each other to secure the case module to the base module
Data Source
AI summary
A reconfigurable computer mouse is disclosed. The reconfigurable mouse includes a base module that has a cover disposed in a back section of the base module, a receiving portion of a locking system disposed on a side of the base module, a front sliding lock disposed in a front section proximal to a front edge of the base module, a multi-pivot system disposed in the front section of the base module, and a button clicking module mounted on the multi-pivot system, and a case module formed in shape of a shell, the case module arranged to be placed on the base module and be secured to the base module using a magnetic attaching system and the locking system, where the multi-pivot system is arranged to pivot in front/back and left/right directions.