Rotatable Tremolo Arm Angular Detection for Guitar Controller

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing video game controllers lack a realistic and entertaining way to simulate the operation of a guitar, while being durable and cost-effective for mass production.

Innovation Solution

A guitar-shaped video game controller with a rotatable tremolo arm and angular detection system that mimics the operation of an electric guitar, allowing for realistic strumming and pitch modulation through a combination of fret buttons and a tremolo arm that can be rotated about a single axis, sending corresponding signals to the game console.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a specialized guitar-shaped controller is developed to simulate electric guitar operation, then realism and user engagement are improved, but manufacturing cost and device complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverealism of guitar simulationVSAvoidcontroller structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The controller copies the essential visual and operational characteristics of an electric guitar (body shape, neck, strings, tremolo arm) without replicating its complex acoustic-mechanical system. This allows realistic appearance and basic gameplay simulation while keeping manufacturing costs down by using simple electronic components instead of complex mechanical systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The controller serves multiple functions: it simulates guitar playing for music games, provides directional input through the neck portion, and offers button inputs on the body portion. This multi-functionality justifies the specialized guitar shape by making it useful for various game types, thereby amortizing the manufacturing cost across multiple use cases.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If a tremolo arm with angular detection is added to detect pitch changes, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveangular position detection accuracyVSAvoiddetection system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical angular detection mechanisms (such as encoders or resolvers) with simpler electronic sensors like Hall effect sensors or potentiometers. This substitution maintains adequate measurement precision for detecting tremolo arm position while significantly reducing device complexity and manufacturing cost.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system detects angular position changes (pitch bends) by measuring changes in electrical parameters (voltage, resistance, or magnetic field position) rather than mechanical position directly. This parameter transformation allows for precise detection using simple electronic components rather than complex mechanical measurement systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If the controller is designed for durability to survive extended use, then reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedurability for extended useVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The controller is divided into separate modular components (body portion, neck portion, tremolo arm assembly) that can be manufactured independently using cost-effective processes and assembled through durable connection methods. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for durability while keeping individual component costs low, and enables easy replacement of wear-prone parts.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The tremolo arm assembly includes built-in return mechanisms (springs or elastic elements) that automatically return the arm to its neutral position after use, reducing wear on mechanical components and eliminating the need for complex motorized return systems. This self-service feature enhances durability while keeping the system simple and inexpensive to manufacture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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 controller provides a more immersive gaming experience by simulating the operation of a guitar, allowing for varied pitch changes and strumming interactions, enhancing realism and user engagement without being prohibitively expensive to manufacture.

Implementation Method 1

an angular detector coupled to the console interface for detecting angular rotation of the tremolo arm

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAngular detection:

Data Source

PatentUS7435178B1Tremolo bar input for a video game controller

Publication Date: 2008.10.14 ACTIVISION PUBLISHING INC

AI summary

A video game controller and a method of operating the controller are provided. The controller includes: a guitar-shaped housing comprising a body portion and a neck portion; a console interface for coupling with a game console; a tremolo arm extending from the body portion of the housing, said tremolo arm being rotatable about a first axis; and an angular detector coupled to the console interface for detecting angular rotation of the tremolo arm.