Ring-Shaped Wireless Input Device Scroll Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional input devices without a scroll function cause user discomfort due to repetitive button pressing and require frequent hand movement between devices, leading to potential carpal tunnel syndrome, while devices with scroll functions often necessitate awkward hand positioning.
Innovation Solution
A ring-shaped wireless input device with a rotatable wheel and sensor units that send scroll signals to a host device, allowing for convenient, wireless operation with minimal hand movement and application across various electronic devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional input device without scroll function is used, then the device structure is simple, but the user must repeatedly push buttons causing finger pain and operational difficulty
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor unit is integrated within the ring-shaped housing structure, with the wheel component nested inside the housing. The first and second sensors are positioned concentrically along the wheel circumference, creating a compact nested arrangement that provides scroll functionality without significantly increasing external device dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The wheel is designed to rotate freely within the housing, transforming static button pressing into dynamic rotational motion. The sensor unit detects the rotational position and movement of the wheel, converting mechanical rotation into electrical signals for scroll control, thereby improving ease of operation through natural hand movements.
2Ease of operation
If a conventional mouse with scroll function is used, then the scroll function is provided, but the user must frequently move hand between keyboard and mouse causing carpal tunnel syndrome
Solution Approach 1:
The ring-shaped input device integrates multiple functions into a single wearable unit: directional control through wheel rotation, button pressing functionality through the first and second sensors, and wireless communication capabilities. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate keyboard and mouse devices, allowing users to operate all functions from a single hand position.
Solution Approach 2:
The wireless communication unit acts as an intermediary between the ring device and the host device, transmitting control signals without requiring physical connection or hand movement between devices. This wireless mediation enables seamless communication while maintaining ergonomic hand positioning.
3Measurement precision
If the sensor unit has first and second sections alternatively disposed along the wheel circumference, then the scroll signal accuracy is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor unit is divided into multiple discrete sections (first and second sensors) arranged alternately around the wheel circumference. Each sensor section independently detects wheel position, and their combined signals provide precise scroll detection. This segmentation allows for modular manufacturing and assembly while achieving high measurement precision through the alternating pattern.
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 ring-shaped device provides comfortable, ergonomic operation by eliminating repetitive finger actions and excessive hand movement, enabling seamless scroll functionality across multiple devices without causing carpal tunnel syndrome, and offers a simple configuration for easy portability and versatility.
Implementation Method 1
a first sensor unit that has first and second sections alternatively disposed along a circumference of the wheel and is rotated along with the wheel
Implementation Method 2
a wireless communication unit, disposed in the housing, that has a second sensor unit arranged with the first sensor unit, and sends a scroll signal indicating an arranged state to the host device
Data Source
AI summary
A ring-shaped wireless input device for providing an indication of a scroll direction includes a housing having a ring shape, a wheel rotatably installed on the housing, a first sensor unit, that has first and second sections alternatively disposed along a circumference of the wheel and rotated along with the wheel, and a wireless communication unit which is fixedly disposed in the housing, and includes a second sensor unit arranged with the first sensor unit, the communication unit sending a scroll signal indicating an arranged state of the first sensor with regard to the second sensor to the host device.