Simulator Input Device Controller Using Time Intervals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional input devices for simulator environments have limited functionality and result in delayed response times due to the need for complex user handling, such as simultaneous button presses or sequences, which is particularly problematic when simulating various vehicles with different input requirements.
Innovation Solution
An input device with a controller that generates multiple function inputs using a single switch activation, employing switch time intervals and continuity time intervals to allow for dual functionality without requiring complex button combinations or sequences, enabling flexible and simplified configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional input devices provide multiple functions through complex button combinations or sequences, then functionality is expanded, but response time increases and user handling becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by using time-based intervals (switch time interval and continuity time interval) to differentiate between single press and continuous press inputs. The controller monitors the duration of switch activation and generates different function inputs based on whether the switch is pressed briefly or held continuously, thereby providing multiple functions through temporal variation rather than complex button sequences
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by varying the temporal parameter (duration of switch press) to generate different functions. The controller detects changes in the time parameter of switch activation and accordingly generates different function inputs, allowing a single switch to perform multiple functions based on the duration parameter without requiring multiple buttons or complex sequences
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional input devices require button combinations or sequences for multiple functions, then functionality is expanded, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by enabling a single switch to perform multiple functions through the controller's ability to interpret different press durations. The controller is designed to recognize both single press and continuous press patterns from the same switch and generate appropriate function inputs, thereby providing multi-functionality without increasing the number of physical input elements or complicating the input mechanism
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional input devices use complex configuration for multiple functions, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the controller to automatically differentiate between single press and continuous press inputs based on the duration parameter without requiring user configuration or programming. The controller autonomously monitors switch activation time and generates appropriate function inputs, making the system self-configuring and easy to operate while providing multiple functions
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an input device for a simulator environment, a simulator provided therewith, and a method for operating such input device and simulator. The input device according to the invention comprises a frame, a switch configured for generating a signal, a controller that is operatively connected to the switch and is configured for generating an input. The controller is provided with a switch time interval defining the time interval before a new input can be generated after generating a first function input by activating the switch, and a continuity time interval defining the time interval before a second function input is generated while keeping the switch activated.