Transformable Surface Topology Controller for Versatile Input
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hand-held controllers lack versatility in user input mechanisms, as existing designs often require multiple devices or tools to change configurations, limiting user interaction based on specific applications and preferences.
Innovation Solution
A control device with a transformable actuation surface that can change between at least two different topologies, such as a cross-shaped and platter-shaped configuration, through rotation about a central axis, allowing users to tailor their interaction without additional tools or removable parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a controller uses fixed input mechanisms, then the device structure is simple, but the versatility and adaptability for different user preferences and applications is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation surface is designed to be dynamically reconfigurable, allowing users to change its topology between different configurations (e.g., flat, raised,凹陷) to suit different input preferences. This dynamic transformation enables a single controller to provide multiple input mechanism types without requiring separate devices, thereby improving versatility while maintaining relatively simple overall structure
Solution Approach 2:
The transformable actuation surface serves multiple functions within a single component. By changing its topology, the same surface can provide different input mechanisms (such as button-like, stick-like, or directional pad-like interfaces), making the controller universally adaptable to various gaming applications and user preferences without adding multiple separate input devices
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple devices or tools are used to change controller configurations, then input versatility is improved, but the ease of operation and user convenience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The controller enables users to reconfigure the actuation surface directly through simple manual manipulation. The surface can be transformed by the user's own actions (such as pressing, rotating, or sliding movements) without requiring external tools or complex procedures. This self-service capability allows users to quickly adapt the controller to their preferences during gameplay, significantly improving ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The actuation surface is designed with pre-integrated transformation mechanisms that allow configuration changes to be made quickly and easily. The structural design anticipates user needs by providing straightforward transformation paths between different configurations, eliminating the need for complex setup procedures or multiple tools, thus maintaining ease of operation while providing versatile input options
Data Source
AI summary
A control device includes an input mechanism having an actuation surface that is configurable by a user between at least two different surface topologies. In a first configuration, the surface topology may provide a first shape for receiving user input and in a second configuration provide a second shape for receiving user input. The actuation surface in one example includes the upper surface of an input pad having a plurality of input arms and the upper surface of a fill pad having a plurality of fill tabs. At least one of the input pad and the fill pad may be moved in a direction of an axis perpendicular to the face of the control device to change the distance between the upper surfaces. The actuation surface in one example is rotatable to cause translation of at least one of the pads in the direction of the perpendicular axis.