Switchable D-Pad Assembly for Precision and Swivel Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional handheld gaming controllers typically have a single type of D-pad, requiring users to own multiple controllers for different game types, as swivel D-pads are preferred for fighting games and discrete D-pads for shooting/driving games, leading to inefficiency and inconvenience.
Innovation Solution
A directional pad assembly with a directional-control unit that can switch between swivel and discrete D-pad configurations, allowing interchangeable D-pad caps for tiltable and individual button operations, respectively, through a plate-like structure with plunger elements and a main support structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a swivel D-pad is used, then ease of operation is improved for fighting games, but measurement precision deteriorates for shooting games
Solution Approach 1:
The D-pad is designed to dynamically switch between swivel mode and discrete button mode based on game requirements. The plate-like structure can tilt freely for swivel operation, or be locked in position for discrete button pressing, allowing the system to adapt its operational characteristics in real-time.
Solution Approach 2:
The physical state of the D-pad is changed between two configurations: tilted/swivel position for fighting games and locked/discrete position for shooting games. This parameter change allows the same hardware to provide different operational characteristics suitable for different game genres.
2Measurement precision
If a discrete D-pad is used, then measurement precision is improved for shooting games, but ease of operation deteriorates for fighting games
Solution Approach 1:
The D-pad dynamically transitions between discrete button mode for precision shooting game control and swivel mode for fast combination moves in fighting games. The ability to switch modes allows the system to optimize for either precision or speed depending on the game type.
3Device complexity
If only one type of D-pad is provided, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability deteriorates for different game types
Solution Approach 1:
A single D-pad assembly is designed to perform multiple functions by switching between swivel and discrete button modes. The same physical structure serves both fighting game requirements (swivel for combos) and shooting game requirements (discrete buttons for precision), eliminating the need for multiple specialized controllers.
Solution Approach 2:
The D-pad is segmented into a plate-like structure with multiple plunger elements that can be independently activated. This segmentation allows the single D-pad to function as both a swivel control and a multi-button discrete control, providing versatility without requiring separate controllers for different game types.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple controllers are owned for different game types, then adaptability is improved, but loss of substance increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring multiple specialized controllers, a single universal controller design incorporates both swivel and discrete D-pad functionalities. This eliminates the need for users to purchase and maintain multiple controllers, reducing material consumption and waste associated with owning multiple gaming devices.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A directional pad assembly including a directional-control unit having a plate-like structure and two or more plunger elements slidable relative to the plate-like structure; a main support structure to support a centre of the plate-like structure such that the plate-like structure is multi-directional tiltable; an interface frame structure suspended above the plate-like structure of the directional-control unit and in a fixed spatial relationship and non-movable relative to the main support structure; and two or more switches arranged around the main support structure and aligned to the two or more plunger elements. The directional-control unit being operable between a first mode, whereby the plate-like structure is tiltable, and a second mode, whereby the two or more plunger elements are individually slidable relative to the plate-like structure, to activate the two or more switches.