Pressable Input Mechanism With Variable-Axis Hinge for Finger Ergonomics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Handheld input devices with fixed paths of motion for pressable user input mechanisms do not adapt to the natural motion of different users' fingers, leading to a less ergonomic experience, especially for users with varying hand sizes.
Innovation Solution
A hinge coupling with a varying axis of rotation based on the force applied, utilizing a curved spring between the pressable user input mechanism and the body of the device, allowing the mechanism to follow the natural motion of the user's finger, combined with sensors to detect multiple actuation states and touch sensors for enhanced input interpretation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed path of motion is used for the pressable user input mechanism, then the device structure is simple and manufacturing is easier, but the device does not adapt to the natural motion of different users' fingers
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge coupling is designed with a curved spring that allows the axis of rotation to dynamically vary based on the force applied by the user's finger. This dynamic characteristic enables the mechanism to adapt to different finger motions and hand sizes, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The location of the axis of rotation is changed as a variable parameter rather than a fixed geometric constraint. The curved spring mechanism allows the axis location to change in response to applied force, enabling adaptation to different users while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
2Ease of operation
If a curved spring hinge coupling is used to vary the axis of rotation, then the device adapts to natural finger motion, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The curved spring hinge coupling is designed to self-adjust the axis of rotation based on the force applied by the user. The mechanism automatically compensates for variations in finger motion and hand size without requiring precise pre-positioning, reducing manufacturing precision requirements while maintaining ergonomic operation.
Solution Approach 2:
By making the axis of rotation dynamic rather than fixed, the system tolerates a wider range of manufacturing variations. The curved spring naturally adjusts the rotation axis based on applied force, reducing the need for high-precision manufacturing while ensuring ergonomic operation across different users.
3Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are used to detect actuation states, then input detection accuracy is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is designed to detect multiple actuation states (pressed, released, partially pressed) using a unified sensing approach. The hinge coupling's varying axis of rotation naturally produces distinct mechanical states that can be detected by sensors, enabling multi-state detection without requiring complex sensor arrays.
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 solution enables a more natural and ergonomic experience by accommodating the unique finger motions of various users, improving the comfort and accuracy of input mechanisms in handheld devices.
Implementation Method 1
a hinge coupling between the body and the pressable user input mechanism, the hinge coupling comprising an axis of rotation that varies based upon a characteristic of force applied to the pressable user input mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
Examples are disclosed that relate to handheld input devices having pressable user input mechanisms configured to move in a manner that adapts to different hands. One disclosed example provides a handheld input device comprising a body configured to be held by a hand such that one or more fingers of the hand are curved at least partially toward a palm of the hand, a pressable user input mechanism positioned on the body at such a location as to be in contact with a palm-side surface of a finger when the handheld input device is held, and a hinge coupling between the body and the pressable user input mechanism, the hinge coupling comprising an axis of rotation that varies based upon a characteristic of force applied to the pressable user input mechanism.