Multidirectional Stick Input with Load-Based Origin Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multidirectional input devices face challenges in accurately determining the origin position of an operating member when it is not in an exact neutral position, due to difficulties in interpreting output from rotation detecting sensors.
Innovation Solution
A multidirectional input device design that includes an operation input part with a tiltable operation stick, coupled parts converting tilt into orthogonal rotation angles, return springs for upright return, a frame, and a load detector on a plate-shaped base to detect applied loads, allowing for accurate determination of the operating member's position through rotation and distortion sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a rotation detecting sensor is used to detect the operating member position, then the operating member can be controlled according to tilt angle, but it becomes difficult to determine the origin position when the operating member is not in an exact neutral position
Solution Approach 1:
A load detector is introduced as an intermediary device to detect the load applied to the operation stick. This load information serves as a mediator to determine whether the operation stick is in the origin position, complementing the rotation detecting sensor's angle information and solving the ambiguity when the stick is not exactly neutral.
Solution Approach 2:
The operation stick system is designed to provide multiple types of information simultaneously - both rotation angle from the rotation detecting sensor and load magnitude from the load detector. This multi-functionality allows the system to determine origin position through combined criteria rather than relying on a single sensor, improving reliability.
2Device complexity
If only rotation detecting sensors are used, then the device structure remains simple, but the ability to accurately determine origin position deteriorates when neutral position is not exact
Solution Approach 1:
The rotation detecting sensor and load detector are merged into a coordinated detection system. The rotation sensor provides angular position while the load detector provides force magnitude, and their combined outputs are processed together to determine origin position, achieving higher precision without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system monitors changes in load parameter in addition to rotation angle parameter. By detecting both the magnitude of applied load and the angular displacement, the system can identify origin position through parameter relationships rather than absolute values, improving detection accuracy.
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
Enables precise determination of the operating member's origin position and improved load detection accuracy, ensuring correct operation even when the member is not in an exact neutral position.
Implementation Method 1
at least one return spring configured to return the operation stick to an upright position
Implementation Method 2
The load detector is provided on the frame or the base and is configured to detect a load applied to the frame
Data Source
AI summary
A multidirectional input device includes an operation input part, a base, and a load detector. The operation input part includes an operation stick, two coupled parts configured to convert a tilt of the operation stick into two rotation angles orthogonal to each other, at least one return spring configured to return the operation stick to an upright position, and a frame accommodating the two coupled parts, the at least one return spring, and a part of the operation stick. The base has a plate shape and is provided below the frame. The load detector is provided on the frame or the base and is configured to detect a load applied to the frame.