U.S. patent application number 11/197772 was filed with the patent office on 2006-02-02 for ergonomically cofigurable video game controller.
Invention is credited to Saied Hussaini, Marc Iacovelli.
Application Number | 20060025217 11/197772 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46205668 |
Filed Date | 2006-02-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060025217 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hussaini; Saied ; et
al. |
February 2, 2006 |
Ergonomically cofigurable video game controller
Abstract
An ergonomically configurable hand-held video game controller
for interaction with a computer gaming unit. The video game
controller comprises an configurable control members which may be
selectively positioned relative to the main housing to accommodate
preferred ergonomic positions for custom preferences of a user. In
one embodiment, a particular operational device such as a trackball
may be shifted from the right side of the controller to the left
side to accommodate left and right handed users. A moveable modular
assembly may also be replaceable to unlimited configurations of a
single control unit.
Inventors: |
Hussaini; Saied; (Miami,
FL) ; Iacovelli; Marc; (Miami, FL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BERENATO, WHITE & STAVISH
Suite 240
6550 Rock Spring Drive
Bethesda
MD
20817
US
|
Family ID: |
46205668 |
Appl. No.: |
11/197772 |
Filed: |
August 5, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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10963741 |
Oct 14, 2004 |
|
|
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11197772 |
Aug 5, 2005 |
|
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60556874 |
Mar 29, 2004 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
463/36 ; 463/37;
463/38 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63F 2300/1043 20130101;
A63F 13/22 20140902; A63F 13/24 20140902; A63F 2300/1018
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/036 ;
463/037; 463/038 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24 |
Claims
1. A hand-held video game controller for interaction with a
computer gaming unit, said controller comprising: a hand-held main
housing unit; and a plurality of operating members logistically
positioned to said main housing unit for manipulation by a user for
producing a plurality of game control signals; at least one of said
plurality of said operating members being selectively moveable to a
plurality of logistic positions relative to said main housing unit
to allow for user-specific ergonomic adjustment of at least one
operating members relative to said casing.
2. The hand held video game controller according to claim 2,
wherein said at least one operating member is a trackball input
device.
3. The hand-held video game controller according to claim 2,
wherein said at least one trackball input device is pivotally
movable with respect to said casing.
4. The hand-held video game controller according to claim 2,
wherein said at least one trackball input device is linearly
movable with respect to said casing.
5. The hand-held video game controller according to claim 2,
wherein said at least one trackball input device includes a
trackball housing adjustably mounted to said casing.
6. The hand-held video game controller according to claim 5,
wherein said at least one trackball input device further includes a
support arm integrally connected to said trackball housing and
movably coupled to said casing.
7. A hand-held video game controller for interaction with a
computer gaming unit, said controller comprising: a hand-held
casing having a front surface including a control section; a rear
surface opposite said front surface; a plurality of user operated
operating members logistically positioned on said front surface of
said casing for producing a plurality of game control signals; and
at least one trackball input device integrally mounted to said rear
surface of said casing.
8. A hand-held video game controller for interaction with a
computer gaming unit, said controller comprising: a hand-held main
housing unit; and a modular assembly having plurality of operating
members logistically positioned thereto for manipulation by a user
for producing a plurality of game control signals; wherein said
modular assembly being movably connected to said main housing unit
thereby facilitating selective movement to a plurality of different
logistic positions relative to said main housing unit to allow for
user-specific ergonomic adjustment of at least one operating
members.
9. The controller according to claim 9, wherein said modular
assembly is removably connected to said main housing unit to
thereby facilitate selective replacement of different modular
assemblies to permit a plurality of customized user
configurations.
10. The controller according to claim 9, wherein said modular
assembly is rotationally connected to said main housing unit.
11. The controller according to claim 11, wherein said modular
assembly comprises a substantially cylindrical portion seated in a
substantially cylindrical recess formed in said main housing unit,
said modular assembly capable of rotating to any rotational
positions substantially throughout 360 degrees.
12. The controller according to claim 11, wherein said controller
includes a retainer member to retain said modular assembly within
said recessed of said main housing init.
13. The controller according to claim 12, wherein said retainer
member includes a retainment collar threadingly engaging a second
threaded recessed formed in a tops surface of said main housing
unit, said modular assembly being disposed between said retainment
collar and a bottom portion of said substantially cylindrical
recess of said housing,
14. The controller according to claim 11, wherein said modular
assembly includes a stop to prevent unlimited rotational movement
relative to main housing unit and limit rotational movement to
within a single 360 degrees.
15. The controller according to claim 11, wherein said modular
assembly includes a retention assembly to retain said modular in a
particular selective rotational position relative to said main
housing unit.
16. The controller according to claim 15, wherein said retention
assembly includes at least one detent projecting from said modular
assembly and a plurality of recesses formed in an inner peripheral
surface of said substantially cylindrical recess of said main
housing unit, said detent being flexibly formed capable if inward
deflection upon forced rotational movement of said modular
assembly, said detent being biased in an outward position to engage
one of said plurality of recesses formed in an inner peripheral
surface of said substantially cylindrical recess of said main
housing unit to maintain said modular assembly in a desired
rotational position relative to said main housing unit.
17. The controller according to claim 16, wherein said at least one
detent is formed as a projection on a cantilevered surface external
surface of said modular assembly, said cantilevered surface being
formed by a cut out portion of said external surface to facilitate
inward deflection of said detent upon formed rotational movement of
said modular assembly relative to said main housing unit.
18. The controller according to claim 16, wherein said modular
assembly includes at least one user engaging surfaces provided on a
top exposed surface of said modular assembly to facilitate
engagement by a user to dial the modular assembly to a desired
rotational position within said 360 degrees.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of pending
application Ser. No. 10/963,741 filed Oct. 14, 2004 that claims the
benefit of provisional application No. 60/556,874 filed Mar. 29,
2004 by Hussaini, S. et al. each of which are incorporated herein
by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to hand-held video game
controllers in general, and more specifically to a ergonomically
configurable hand-held video game controller.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] Computer video games are well known in the art. Such devices
range from small hand-held all-in-one units, to larger stand-alone
units which interact with stand-alone controllers. For more
sophisticated play, stand-alone computer units provide tremendous
processing power and work with associated peripheral devices, such
as a remote controller and television display in an attempt to
bring the player a more dramatic gaming experience to that of
hand-held devices. A central stand-alone console contains all the
essential processing components to run a computer game. A
controller is connected to communicate operation control commands
from a user. As previously mentioned, this conventional arrangement
is well known in the art.
[0006] With the tremendous commercial success of stand-alone
computer gaming systems, an entire peripheral market has emerged
ranging from advanced video controllers, joystick input devices,
steering wheel devices for racing games, multi-tap controllers,
vibrating controllers, video stands, audio systems and the like.
Programmable controllers are also available which allow a user to
customize the operation of control buttons by programming different
modes of operation.
[0007] Trackballs have been employed in such devices as lap tops
computers and other electronic devices. In such devices, such as
laptop, a control ball is rotatably mounted into the surface of the
console and optical sensors sense the movement of the ball. Such
prior art devices have been employed to control the simple movement
of a cursor on the lap top display screen. However, the prior art
is void of a hand held control unit incorporating a track ball
control member or the use of a track ball control member to in a
personal video gaming platform. The present invention includes
several embodiments for various implementation of a track ball to
control a video game in a hand held controller.
[0008] FIGS. 1A and 1B represent a prior art hand held controller
including a conventional directional pad, a pair of stick control
members and four control buttons. The directional pad is limited to
finite control in four directions. More specifically, the video
game controller 10 of the prior art includes a plurality of buttons
14, a multi-directional switch 16, commonly known as D-pad
(Directional pad), joystick input devices 18a and 18b, and triggers
(shoulder buttons) 20. D-pads are well known in the game controller
art, and function to provide particular contact closures depending
upon where the user applies pressure on an operating button
thereof. When the user depresses the uppermost or northern position
of the D-pad, such is equivalent to depressing a key of a standard
keyboard. When the user depresses the rightmost or east portion of
the D-pad, such is equivalent to a different key of a standard
keyboard being depressed. Likewise, separate keystroke entries are
made by depressing the southern portion and western portion. It is
possible to provide for yet additional keystroke entries by
depression of the D-pad in portions intermediate the north, east,
south and west positions without departing from the scope of the
present invention.
[0009] The video game controller 10 has various buttons to
implement several modes of operation. The video game controller 10
and the computer gaming unit contain circuitry and drivers to
effectuate the commands given from a user to the computer gaming
unit via the video game controller 10. For example, a start button
24 is used to start a video game once the computer gaming unit is
tuned on. Usually an opening screen appears to the operator on a
display device. Another example of a button with specific functions
is the select button 28.
[0010] Often times, each button 14, joystick input device 15a or
18b, trigger (shoulder button) 20 has a particular command in which
it executes. For example, if a user is playing a hockey game loaded
on the computer gaming unit, D-pad 16 would control the movement of
the player under the control of the video game controller 10. The
other players would be controlled by an additional user through
another video game controller or by the computer gaming unit
itself. When the user presses upon the button 14 with the square,
the player on the display would pass the hockey puck to another
player, while if the user presses the button 14 with the triangle,
the player to shoot the puck towards the goal. Similarly, the right
trigger 20 may allow the player under the control of the video game
unit to check, or hit, another player on the screen. Or the button
14 with the circle allows a player to accelerate and move faster
than normal. Thus, each button 14, trigger 20, pad 16 and joystick
input devices 18a, 18b has a distinct function assigned to it.
[0011] Many games allow a user to select a "turbo" mode for a
particular function. It is often desirable to have a particular
function at an accelerated speed or provide an additional power
boost to the action on the display. Thus, a user will effectuate
the "turbo" or program mode through activation of the "turbo"
button 30. For example, when the hockey player in the above example
is skating and the user wishes to activate the "turbo" function, he
might hold down button 14 with the circle on the top while
simultaneously pressing the "turbo" button 30. This would
essentially place the circle button 14 in "turbo" or program mode.
When circle button 14 is in "turbo" mode the player may skate
faster than if circle button 14 was pressed while not in "turbo" or
program mode. Thus, a particular button may be selectively
programmed in either normal or "turbo" modes.
[0012] While known hand-held video game controllers, including but
not limited to those discussed above, have proven to be acceptable,
such devices are nevertheless susceptible to improvements that may
enhance their performance and ease and convenience of use. With
this in mind, a need exists to develop improved hand-held video
game controllers that advance the art.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] The present invention is directed to an ergonomically
configurable hand-held video game controller for interaction with a
computer gaming unit. The video game controller comprises
configurable control members which may be selectively positioned
relative to the main housing to accommodate preferred ergonomic
positions for custom preferences of a user. In one embodiment, a
particular operational device such as a track ball may be shifted
from the right side of the controller to the left side to
accommodate left and right handed users. A moveable modular
assembly may also be replaceable to unlimited configurations of a
single control unit.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] FIG. 1A is a top plan view of a conventional video game
controller of the prior art;
[0015] FIG. 1B is a bottom plan view of the conventional video game
controller of the prior art;
[0016] FIG. 2A is a top plan view of a video game controller
according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0017] FIG. 2B is a front view of the video game controller
according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0018] FIG. 2C is a left side view of the video game controller
according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0019] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of an electronic circuitry of
the video game controller according to the first exemplary
embodiment of the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 4A is a partially exposed top view of the video game
controller according to the first exemplary embodiment of the
present invention;
[0021] FIG. 4B is a partially exposed rear view of the video game
controller according to the first exemplary embodiment of the
present invention;
[0022] FIG. 5A is a sectional view as seen from the plane indicated
by the line A-A in FIG. 4A;
[0023] FIG. 5B is a sectional view as seen from the plane indicated
by the line B-B in FIG. 4A;
[0024] FIG. 6A is a top plan view of a video game controller
according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0025] FIG. 6B is a front view of the video game controller
according to the second exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0026] FIG. 6C is a left side view of the video game controller
according to the second exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0027] FIG. 7A is a top plan view of a video game controller
according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0028] FIG. 7B is a front view of the video game controller
according to the third exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0029] FIG. 7C is a left side view of the video game controller
according to the third exemplary embodiment of the present
invention.
[0030] FIG. 8 is plan view of an alternate embodiment of the
present invention with movable control member.
[0031] FIGS. 9-10 are top and bottom view of another alternate
embodiment showing a trackball mounted to an underneath
surface.
[0032] FIG. 11 depicts the controller of the present invention used
by an end sure in combination with a gaming platform FIG. 12 is a
plan view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention with
reconfigurable modular controller members.
[0033] FIG. 13 is a partially sectional view of the modular
assembly taken longs lines 13-13 of FIG. 12.
[0034] FIG. 14 depicts an alternate embodiment showing a partial
sectional view between the modular assembly and main housing
unit.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0035] The preferred embodiments of a present invention will now be
described with the reference to accompanying drawings. For purposes
of the following description, certain terminology is used in the
following description for convenience only and is not limiting. The
words "right", "left", "bottom" and "top" designate directions in
the drawings to which reference is made. The words "inwardly" and
"outwardly" refer to directions toward and away from, respectively,
the geometric center of the present invention and designated parts
thereof. However, it is to be understood that the invention may
assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly
specified to the contrary. The terminology includes the words
specifically mentioned above, derivatives thereof and words of
similar import.
[0036] It is also to be understood that the specific article
illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the
following specification is simply exemplary embodiment of the
inventive concept. Specific dimensions and other physical
characteristics relating to the embodiment disclosed herein are not
to be considered as limiting, unless expressly stated otherwise.
Additionally, the word "a," as used in the claims, means "at least
one."
[0037] FIGS. 2A-2C, 3, 4A, 4B, 5A and 5B depict a hand-held video
game controller 110 according to a first exemplary embodiment of
the present invention. A video game controller 110 is ergonomically
formed to be held by a hand(s) of a user. The video game controller
110 includes a plurality of operating members for manipulation of
the users hand to facilitate interaction with game play. The
controller may be of the programmable type and may include a
vibratory member for heightened game play as well as lighted
buttons etc. A communication cable 111 is provided to transmit
operation commands to a stand-alone computer gaming unit, or a game
console, (not shown) in response to manipulation of said operation
members by the user. Located at the terminal end of the
communication cable 111 is a plug 111a. The plug 111a is used to
connect the communication cable 111 to the computer gaming unit.
The plug 111a has a series of electrical connections that
correspond to an electrical connection within a receptacle of the
computer gaming unit. Alternatively, the video game controller 110
may be a wireless controller includes a radio frequency or infrared
transmitter for sending control signals to the game console,
wherein the game console includes a receiver for receiving the
control signals from the game controller.
[0038] The computer gaming unit typically includes a disc drive
mechanism in which a disc, such as a compact disc, has stored
thereon a video game program, and a conventional circuitry for
executing the video game program stored on disc. For example, the
gaming unit may include a processor, memory and stored system
programs for controlling the operation of the gaming unit,
controller interface circuitry, and audio/video generating and
outputting circuitry. An example of suitable computer gaming units
are the Nintendo N64.TM., SEGA Genesis, X-Box, Gamecube, Sony
Playstation game systems, etc. The hand-held video game controller
10 according to this embodiment of the present invention is
connected to the gaming unit via a direct wire link in the form of
the communication cable 111. Further, a wireless control unit can
be connected to the gaming unit by, for example, a direct wire link
or by mating connectors.
[0039] As illustrated in FIGS. 2A-2C, the game controller 110
includes a hollow casing 112 defining a central control section
114, and left and right hand grip sections 116a and 116b extending
out from the control section 114. Thus, the game controller 110 is
intended to be utilized by both hands of a user. The user grasps
the respective left and right hand grip sections 116a and 16b with
each hand, the user's thumbs remaining extended over the central
control section 114. Typically, a player grips the left and right
handgrip sections 116a and 116b during play and operates control
switches corresponding to the handgrip sections gripped.
[0040] The control section 114 includes a plurality of operating
members, which the user will utilize to enter data and control
signals. Those operating members, which are disposed on the control
section 114, are intended to be individually operated by one or
both thumbs of the user.
[0041] A button pad 118 provided with a plurality of user activated
buttons (or switches) 119 are mounted to the control section 114 of
the casing 112 and accessible from an outer peripheral surface of
the casing 112. The game controller 110 also includes a battery
(not shown) that supplies power to the internal components of the
controller.
[0042] The game controller 110 is further provided with a joystick
input device 122 on the left side of the control section 114 of the
casing 112, and trigger switches (shoulder buttons) 124a, 124b and
126a, 126b. The joystick input device 122 is a directional control
device usually used as an input device for two or three dimensional
movement of an object controlled by the game controller 110, while
the trigger switches 124a, 124b, 126a and 126b can be used for
performing at least one control function associated with the
object. Typically, the trigger switches are used to fire weapons
during a game.
[0043] Video game controllers have various buttons to implement
several modes of operation within the game controller 110. The
video game controller 110 and the computer gaming unit contain
circuitry and drivers to effectuate the commands given from the
user to the computer gaming unit via the video game controller 110.
For example, a "START" button 128 is used to start a video game
once the computer gaming unit is turned on. Usually an opening
screen appears to the operator on a display device. Another example
of a button with specific functions is a "SELECT" button 130. The
SELECT button 130 allows the user to scroll through the various
options presented by the computer gaming unit. A "TURBO" button 132
allows the user to select a "TURBO" mode for a particular function.
It is often desirable to have a particular function at an
accelerated speed or provide an additional power boost to the
action on the display. Also, the user will effectuate a program
mode through activation of a "PROGRAM" button 134.
[0044] The video game controller 110 also includes a frequency
response unit in the form of conventional vibration device that is
well known in the art. Such device includes activation of a
rotating eccentric weight and is commonly known to those skilled in
the art. The video game controller 110 of the present invention
includes a 3-position vibration switch 131 to selectively turn off
the vibrating member or select between low and high vibration
modes.
[0045] Furthermore, the game controller 110 in accordance with the
first exemplary embodiment of the present invention incorporates
two integrated trackball control devices: a first trackball control
device 140 and a second trackball control device 150. It will be
appreciated by comparing FIG. 2A with FIG. 1A that the first
trackball control device 140 replaces the D-pad 16 of the video
game controller 10 of the prior art, while the second trackball
control device 150 replaces the joystick input device 18b of the
game controller of the prior art. Preferably, the first and second
trackball control devices 140 and 150 are substantially similar and
may be in the form of any appropriate off-the-shelf trackball
mechanism commonly known to those skilled in the art. As an
example, the trackball control devices 140 and 150 may be similar
to the trackball mechanisms of the mechanical-type disclosed in
U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,410,332, 5,171,978, 5,162,780, 5,078,019,
4,933,670, 4,575,086, 4,505,165 and 4,404,865 incorporated herein
by reference. Preferably, according to the present invention, the
first and second trackball control devices 140 and 150 are
optical-type trackball devices including a trackball and associated
optical elements, well known in the prior art as may be seen by
reference to the U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,586,720, 6,552,716, 6,124,587,
6,084,574, 5,854,482 and 5,680,157 the disclosures of which are
incorporated herein by reference. The optical-type trackball
devices are well known in the art and could be found in a number of
applications, such as, for example, laptops for cursor control and
mouse devices.
[0046] Conventionally, the trackball devices are used as a position
information input device (pointing device) for inputting position
information for moving a cursor on the display screen of an
information processing apparatus such as a computer. To make the
operation space unnecessary, a trackball device includes a
spherical body, e.g., a ball, which is rotatably supported in a
ball holder so as to expose a part of its outer circumferential
portion to the outside, and a circuit for converting the rotation
amount of this spherical body into an electrical signal. The
trackball is rotatable in any direction independent of the ball
holder. The amount obtained by rotating the exposed portion of the
spherical body when operated with a finger of the user is converted
into the electrical signal. In response to this signal, position
information is input to a control unit of an information processing
apparatus, such as a computer.
[0047] Referring to FIGS. 2A-2C and 3, the first trackball control
device 140 is the optical-type trackball device and includes a
first trackball 142 mounted within a first ball holder 144 for
rotation relative to the casing 112 about orthogonal axes, first
trackball rotational position sensors 146, and a first selector
switch 148 (shown in FIGS. 3 and 4B) activated when the first
trackball 142 is pressed. In this particular embodiment the first
trackball 142 is a spherical ball with a substantially smooth
exterior. As shown in FIGS. 2A-2C, the first ball holder 144 is
integrally mounted in a recess in the control section 114 of the
casing 112 so that the first trackball 142 partially extends out
thereof.
[0048] In this embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 3 depicting an
electronic circuitry 160 of the video game controller 110 according
to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the
first trackball control device 140 includes an associated array of
first optical (photosensitive) elements 147 forming two rotational
position sensors 146 oriented orthogonally to each other. However,
in alternate embodiments more or less than two rotational position
sensors could be provided and they could be orientated at any
suitable orientation relative to each other. The optical elements
146 are electrically connected to an electronic control unit (ECU)
162 of the electronic circuitry 160, such as a microprocessor.
[0049] Thus, the first trackball control device 140 is provided to
generate a signal indicative to the amount and direction of
rotational movement of the first trackball 142 relative to the
casing 112 in each of the orthogonal directions.
[0050] The second trackball control device 150 is generally
identical to the first trackball control device 140 as disclosed
hereinabove, and includes a second trackball 152 mounted within a
second ball holder 154 for rotation relative to the casing 112
about the orthogonal axes, second trackball rotational position
sensors 156, and a second selector switch 158 (shown in FIG. 3)
activated when the second trackball 152 is pressed. As shown in
FIGS. 2A-2C, the second ball holder 154 is integrally mounted in a
recess in the control section 114 of the casing 112 so that the
second trackball 152 partially extends out thereof. As further
illustrated in FIG. 3, the second trackball control device 150
includes an associated array of second optical (photosensitive)
elements 157 forming two rotational position sensors 156 oriented
orthogonally to each other.
[0051] Preferably, the second trackball control device 150 is
smaller, than the first trackball control device 140. More
preferably, the first trackball 142 is 22 mm in diameter, while the
second trackball 152 is 20 mm in diameter. Similarly to the first
trackball control device 140, the second trackball control device
150 is, preferably, the optical-type trackball device and includes
an associated array of optical (photosensitive) elements 156
forming two rotational position sensors oriented orthogonal to each
other. The optical elements 156 are electrically connected to the
ECU 162 of the electronic circuitry 160. Thus, the second trackball
control device 150 is provided to generate a signal indicative to
the amount and direction of rotational movement of the second
trackball 152 relative to the casing 112 in each of the orthogonal
directions.
[0052] FIGS. 4A-5B represent additional partially exposed and
sectional views of the first exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 2A-2C
and 3. In this embodiment, each of the first and second trackball
control devices 140 and 150 incorporates the selector switches 148
and 158, respectively, in the form of a micro-switch for enhanced
operation of the trackball control device. As illustrated in FIGS.
4B and 5B, each of the trackballs 142 and 152 floats in a housing
of a spring biased support member. Pressing down on the trackball
will cause the trackball to move. The micro-switch, either first or
second selector switches 148 and 158, in the form of a make/break
contact switch, is positioned underneath the trackball. When the
trackball is depresses hard enough, overcoming the spring bias, the
contact is made. This switch closes a circuitry to the ECU
(micro-controller) 162. Thus micro-controller 162 recognizes
whether the trackball has been depressed or remains suspended for
rotational control. When the switch is made, the micro-controller
continues to send control command signals to the gaming unit using
the last known direction and velocity sensed by the controller.
Thus the user may employ the trackball control device for a
variable that lends itself to continuous fire such as a firing
device or controlling the movement of the variable such as a
racecar or other moving object. For example, when the user wishes
for a game object to continuously move in a particular direction,
the user simply moves the trackball until the object moves in the
desired direction at the desired speed. Then, when such direction
and speed are achieved, the user simply depresses the track ball,
the micro-controller will continuously sense the command signals to
maintain directional and speed control. The user simply releases
the track ball when a change in direction or speed is desired.
[0053] The video game controller 110 further has an ON/OFF switch
133 shown in FIG. 2A. In OFF state of the switch 133, the joystick
input device 122 on the left and the second trackball control
device 150 on the right function as they are. However, when the
switch 133 is in ON state, the left joystick input device 122 and
the right trackball control device 150 are swapped. In other words,
in ON state, the left joystick input device 122 generates the
control signal usually generated by the right trackball control
device 150 (when the switch 133 is in OFF state), while the right
trackball control device 150 generates the control signal usually
generated by the left joystick input device 122.
[0054] The integration of the trackball control devices 140 and 150
into the hand-held video game controller 10 provides superior
control of a variable signal and is particularly suited for aiming
(directional) and force control, for example golfing video games
such as Tiger Woods golf on the Playstation II platform as well as
other gaming software.
[0055] The existing off-the-shelve trackball control devices, for
example those found in laptops for cursor control and mouse
devices, produce the control signal that is difficult to control
and maneuver is some applications. Moreover, different applications
may require different sensitivity for controlling the variable
signal in the application. Furthermore, personal preferences of the
user as well as skill level require different sensitivity for
optimal control by a specific user.
[0056] Thus, a mechanism to selectively control the sensitivity of
the trackball control devices 140 and 150 has been incorporated
into the hand held video game controller 110. As shown in FIG. 2A,
the video game controller 110 further includes first and second
sensitivity switches 170 and 172, respectively, incorporated into
the casing 112 to selectively control the sensitivity of the first
and second trackball control devices 140 and 150, respectively.
[0057] Each of the sensitivity switches 170 and 172 is slidable
between at least three different positions H--high, M--medium and
L--low sensitivity of an output of the trackball control devices
140 and 150 for precise motion control in the video game. As
illustrated in the schematic diagram of the electronic circuitry
162 in FIG. 3, each of the sensitivity switches 170 and 172 simply
moves between a plurality of different positions, either infinitely
variable, or between discrete positions. The sensitivity switch
170, 172 makes or brakes contacts in a different manner to vary the
resistance between the sensitivity switch 170, 172 and the ECU 162.
Thus the voltage drop across the variable resistance will change as
will the resultant current. The ECU 162 senses the different
conditions and the internal software is programmed to manipulate
input (control) signals from the trackball control device 140, 150
differently according to the selected position of the sensitivity
switch 170, 172. The specific algorithm to selectively control the
trackball control device 140, 150 in response to different sensed
conditions (sensitivity switch position) is not essential to the
present invention and may be derived and implemented by one of
ordinary skill in the art.
[0058] FIGS. 6A-6C of the drawings illustrate a second exemplary
embodiment of a hand-held video game controller according to the
present invention. Components, which are unchanged from, or
function in the same way as in the first exemplary embodiment
depicted in FIGS. 2A-2C and 3 are labeled with the same reference
numerals, sometimes without describing detail since similarities
between the corresponding parts in the two embodiments will be
readily perceived by the reader.
[0059] A hand-held video game controller 210 of the second
exemplary embodiment includes a hollow casing 212 defining a
central control section 214, and left and right hand grip sections
216a and 216b extending out from the control section 214. A button
pad 118 provided with a plurality of user activated buttons (or
switches) is mounted to the control section 214 of the casing 212
and accessible from an outer peripheral surface of the casing
212.
[0060] The game controller 210 is further provided with right
(first) and left (second) joystick input devices 222a and 222b, and
trigger switches (shoulder buttons) 124a, 124b and 126a, 126b. The
right and left joystick input devices 222a and 222b are directional
control devices used as input devices for two or three dimensional
movement of an object controlled by the game controller 210, while
the trigger switches 124a, 124b, 126a and 126b can be used for
performing at least one control function associated with the
object. Typically, the trigger switches are used to fire weapons
during a game.
[0061] Moreover, the game controller 210 in accordance with the
second exemplary embodiment of the present invention incorporates a
trackball input device 240 that replaces the conventional D-pad 16
of the video game controller 10 of the prior art, shown in FIG. 1A.
The trackball input device 240 is substantially identical to the
trackball input devices 140 and 150 according to the first
exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIGS.
6A-6C, the trackball input device 240 is preferably the
optical-type trackball device and includes a trackball 242 mounted
within a ball holder 244 for rotation relative to the casing 212
about orthogonal axes.
[0062] As shown in FIG. 6A, the video game controller 210 further
includes a sensitivity switch 170 incorporated into the casing 212
to selectively control the sensitivity of the trackball control
device 240. The game controller 210 also includes a trackball mode
switch 272 that provides the game controller 210 with the ability
to selectively control which conventional control member, (i.e. the
D-pad 16, the right and left joystick input devices 18a and 18b
shown in FIG. 1A) the trackball input device 240 will replace. The
trackball mode switch 272 is slidable between at least three
different positions D--D-pad, L--left joystick input device and
R--right joystick input device. In other words, the trackball mode
switch 272 may provide for the trackball input device 240 to take
over for the conventionally known D-pad when in position D. When in
position L, the trackball input device 240 will then control
operation of the variable conventionally associated with the first
(left) joystick input device 222b, and in position R, the second
(right) joystick input devices 222a. Here again, the switch 272 is
selectively positioned to alter the resistance between the switch
and an ECU of the game controller 210. Thus, the ECU easily
recognizes which mode of operation is selected and utilizes the
input of trackball signals to control the operation otherwise
associated with the conventional input devices of the prior art.
Such increase of programmability allows the user to customize the
control of gaming variables to personal likenesses.
[0063] Many software applications are developed for use with the
conventional game controller 10 shown in FIG. 1A. For example, some
games will associate certain controlled variables with the D-pad
16, the left joystick input device 18b or right joystick input
device 18a. Thus, the game controller 210 of the present invention
will allow the user to selectively control which conventional input
device the trackball input device 240 will govern.
[0064] FIGS. 7A-7C of the drawings illustrate a third exemplary
embodiment of a hand-held video game controller according to the
present invention. Components, which are unchanged from, or
function in the same way as in the first exemplary embodiment
depicted in FIGS. 2A-2C, 3 and 6A-6C are labeled with the same
reference numerals, sometimes without describing detail since
similarities between the corresponding parts in the two embodiments
will be readily perceived by the reader.
[0065] A hand-held video game controller 310 of the third exemplary
embodiment includes a hollow casing 312 defining a central control
section 314, and right and left hand grip sections 316a and 316b
extending out from the control section 314. A button pad 118
provided with a plurality of user activated buttons (or switches)
is mounted to the control section 314 of the casing 312 and
accessible from an outer peripheral surface of the casing 312. The
game controller 310 is further provided with right and left
joystick input devices 222a and 222b, a D-pad 350 as a directional
control device and trigger switches (shoulder buttons) 124a, 124b
and 126a, 126b. The right and left joystick input devices 222a and
222b are directional control devices used as input devices for two
or three dimensional movement of an object controlled by the game
controller 310, while the trigger switches 124a, 124b, 126a and
126b can be used for performing at least one control function
associated with the object. Typically, the trigger switches are
used to fire weapons during a game.
[0066] Moreover, the game controller 310 in accordance with the
third exemplary embodiment of the present invention incorporates a
trackball input device 340 centrally located on the control section
314 of the casing 312. The trackball input device 340 may be
operated by the thumb of either a right hand or left hand of the
user. The trackball input device 340 is substantially identical to
the trackball input device 240 according to the second exemplary
embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIGS. 7A and 7C,
the trackball input device 340 is preferably the optical-type
trackball device and includes a trackball 342 mounted within a ball
holder 344 for rotation relative to the casing 312 about orthogonal
axes.
[0067] As shown in FIG. 7A, the video game controller 310 further
includes a sensitivity switch 170 incorporated into the casing 312
to selectively control the sensitivity of the trackball control
device 340. The game controller 310 also includes a trackball mode
switch 372 that provides the game controller 310 with the ability
to selectively take over the control of any of the conventional
control members (the D-pad 350, the right joystick input device
222a or the left joystick input device 222b). The trackball mode
switch 372 is slidable between at least three different positions
D--D-pad, L--left joystick input device and R--right joystick input
device. When in position D, the trackball input device 340
overrides and replaces the D-pad 350.
[0068] When in position L, the trackball input device 340 will
replace the first (left) joystick input device 222b, and in
position R, the second (right) joystick input devices 222a. Here
again, the switch 372 is selectively positioned to alter the
resistance between the switch and an ECU of the game controller
310.
[0069] FIG. 8 of the drawings illustrates a fourth exemplary
embodiment of a hand-held video game controller according to the
present invention. Components, which are unchanged from, or
function in the same way as in the first, second and third
exemplary embodiments depicted in FIGS. 2A-2C, 3, 6A-6C and 7A-7C
are labeled with the same reference numerals, sometimes without
describing detail since similarities between the corresponding
parts in the two embodiments will be readily perceived by the
reader.
[0070] A hand-held video game controller 410 of the fourth
exemplary embodiment includes a hollow casing 412 defining a
central control section 414, and right and left hand grip sections
416a and 416b extending put from the control section 414. A button
pad 118 provided with a plurality of user activated buttons (or
switches) is mounted to the control section 414 of the casing 412
and accessible from an outer peripheral surface of the casing 412.
The game controller 410 is further provided with right and left
joystick input devices 222a and 222b, a D-pad 350 as a directional
control device and trigger switches (shoulder buttons) 124a, 124b
and 126a, 126b. The right and left joystick input devices 222a and
222b are directional control devices used as input devices for two
or three dimensional movement of an object controlled by the game
controller 410, while the trigger switches 124a, 124b, 126a and
126b can be used for performing at least one control function
associated with the object. Typically, the trigger switches are
used to fire weapons during a game.
[0071] Moreover, the game controller 410 in accordance with the
fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention incorporates a
trackball input device 440 movable between at least two operable,
preferably more than two, positions with respect to the casing 412.
The trackball input device 340 may be operated by the thumb of
either a right hand or left hand of the user. The trackball input
device 440 is substantially identical to the trackball input device
340 according to the third exemplary embodiment of the present
invention. Referring to FIG. 8, the trackball input device 440 is
preferably the optical-type trackball device and includes a
trackball 442 mounted within a ball holder 444 for rotation
relative to the ball holder 444 about orthogonal axes. In turn, the
ball holder 444 is mounted in a trackball housing 445. The
trackball housing 445 is adjustably mounted to the casing 412
through a support arm 446 movably coupled to the casing 412 to
allow a selective user-specific ergonomic adjustment of the
trackball input device 440 relative to the casing 412.
[0072] More specifically, the support arm 446 of the trackball
input device 440 is slideably (telescopically) mounted to the
casing 412 for reciprocatingly moving the trackball input device
440 between a retracted position depicted in FIG. 8 by the
reference numeral 450, and an extended position depicted by the
reference numeral 4502, both for operating either by a right or
left thumb of the user. The support arm 446 of the trackball input
device 440 is also rotatably mounted to the casing 412 for
pivotally moving the trackball input device 440 between a right
side position depicted in FIG. 8 by the reference numeral 4503 for
operating by the right thumb of the user and a left side position
depicted by the reference numeral 4504 for operating by the left
thumb of the user. In other words, the trackball housing 445 is
provided to swing to right or left for right and left handed gamers
or anywhere in between. Also, the trackball housing 445 is capable
to slide inward or outward for desired and comfortable position. At
any desired position the trackball housing 445 can be locked and
secured by any appropriate friction locking system known in the
art.
[0073] FIGS. 9-11 of the drawings illustrate a fifth exemplary
embodiment of a hand-held video game controller according to the
present invention. Components, which are unchanged from, or
function in the same way as in the first, second and third
exemplary embodiments depicted in FIGS. 2A-2C, 3, 6A-6C and 7A-7C
are labeled with the same reference numerals, sometimes without
describing detail since similarities between the corresponding
parts in the two embodiments will be readily perceived by the
reader.
[0074] A hand-held video game controller 510 of the fifth exemplary
embodiment includes a hollow casing 512 defining a central control
section 514, and right and left hand grip sections 516a and 516b
extending out from the control section 514 and adapted to be hold
by a user 550 (shown in FIG. 11). The control section 514 has a
front side 515a facing a user (or player) 550 when the video game
controller 510 is in use and a rear side 515b disposed opposite the
front side 515a.
[0075] A button pad 118 provided with a plurality of user activated
members (buttons or switches) is mounted to the control section 514
of the casing 512 and is accessible from the front side 515a of the
casing 512. The game controller 510 is further provided with right
and left joystick input devices 222a and 222b, a D-pad 350 as a
directional control device and trigger switches (shoulder buttons)
124a, 124b and 126a, 126b. As illustrated in FIG. 9, the right and
left joystick input devices 222a and 222b and the D-pad 350 are
also accessible from the front surface 515a of the casing 412. The
right and left joystick input devices 222a and 222b are directional
control devices used as input devices for two or three dimensional
movement of an object controlled by the game controller 510, while
the trigger switches 124a, 124b, 126a and 126b can be used for
performing at least one control function associated with the
object. Typically, the trigger switches are used to fire weapons
during a game.
[0076] In other words, a plurality of user operated operating
members, such as buttons of the control pad 1118, the joystick
input devices 222a and 222b, the D-pad 350 and the trigger switches
(shoulder buttons) 124a, 124b and 126a, 126b, are provided on the
front side 515a of the casing 512 for producing a plurality of game
control signals. The user operated operating members are reachable
and operated by a thumb 552 of a hand 554 of the user 550 holding
the casing 512 during a video game play, i.e., while the user 550
is playing a video game by controlling a video game console 556. As
further illustrated in FIG. 11, the video game console 556 is
conventionally connected to a monitor 558 trough a communication
cable 560, and to the game controller 510 through the communication
cable 111.
[0077] Moreover, the game controller 510 in accordance with the
fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention incorporates a
trackball input device 540 mounted to and accessible from the rear
side 515b of the casing 512, as illustrated in FIG. 10, to free the
thumb fingers of the user for additional control during game play.
The bottom mounted trackball input device 540 provides the user
(gamer) with superior edge over other locations of the trackball
542. The trackball input device 540 may be operated by either a
right hand or left hand of the user. The trackball input device 540
is substantially identical to the trackball input device 340
according to the third exemplary embodiment of the present
invention. Referring to FIG. 10, the trackball input device 540 is
preferably the optical-type trackball device and includes a
trackball 542 mounted within a ball holder 544 for rotation
relative to the casing 512 about orthogonal axes.
[0078] Therefore, the hand-held video game controller in accordance
with the present invention represents a novel arrangement of the
video game controller that integrates a trackball input device into
the hand held game controller for controlling variables in an
application. Position of the trackball input device is adjustable
relative to a controller casing to allow for user-specific
ergonomic adjustment of the trackball input device relative to the
casing. Moreover, the trackball input device may be mounted to and
accessible from a rear side of the controller casing to free thumb
fingers of a user for additional control during game play.
Sensitively of the trackball input device may be controlled in
addition to selectively choosing which conventional input member
the trackball input device will replace. The video game controller
with the integrated trackball input device thus provides for
superior control of application variables as well as the ability
for users to customize the control and operation of applications to
meet their personal needs.
[0079] FIG. 12 is directed to an additional alternate embodiment of
the present invention. In this embodiment the controller 610
includes a modular assembly 675 having a plurality of control
members such as sticks 622a,b and trackball 642 as shown in the
figure. In this present embodiment, the modular assembly may be
selectively positioned relative to the main housing unit or casing
612. In this embodiment the entire modular assembly 675 may be
rotated like a dial to almost an infinite number of rotary
positions. A plurality of engaging surfaces 676 may be provided so
that the user may grasp or otherwise engage the top surface of the
modular assembly and simply dial the modular assembly 675 to a
desired rotary position. These engagement surfaces can be either
recessed portions or projections or simply a roughened surface. Any
member that will allow positive engagement by the user to rotate
the modular unit relative to the main housing/casing 612 may be
employed. By rotating the modular assembly, each of the sticks
622a, and trackball 642 may be selectively positioned to either
side (left or right) of the controller as well as vertical
orientations (top to bottom) to customize the configuration of the
operational members to ergonomic preferences of a particular user.
While three operational members are show and describes (622a,b 642)
it is to be understood that additional members may be provided in
or on the moveably modular assembly. Moreover, the assembly may
include a plurality of trackballs and a single stick or any
combination multiple operational members. A single operational
member may also be provided in which case the member is positioned
off center of the modular assembly to allow the member to be
selectively positionable throughout a large range of vertical and
horizontal positions by simply rotating the modular assembly
relative to the main housing unit/casing 612. The details showing
to rotatatable connection of the modular assembly 675 to the main
housing unit/casing 612 will no be explained.
[0080] FIG. 13 is a partial sectional view of the modular assembly
676 rotatably connected to the main housing unit/casing 612. The
modular unit includes a main portion having a stepped or notched
portion 680 on the underneath surface. The modular unit 675 simply
sits on recessed bottom surface 681 or ledge formed on the main
housing unit 612. The modular assembly simply rests in place and
sis free to rotate 360 degrees relative to the main housing unit
612. To limit unlimited rotation that could entangle the
communication cord/bundle 690 the modular assembly 675 has a
projection or tab 683. A corresponding projection or tab 685 is
also fomed on the inner surface of the recessed portion of the main
housing 612. Such an arrangement allows the modular assembly 675 to
freely rotate 180 degrees in either direction from the position
show in FIG. 13. Thus the modular assembly is capable of being
positioned in any intermediate rotational position throughout the
entire 360 degrees. The modular assembly 675 s retained and
connected to the main housing unit 612 by a retaining collar 687.
The retaining collar simply has a threaded portion 689 which
engages a threaded portion of an upper most inner surface of the
main housing unit 691. The retaining collar is simply screwed down
and tightened such that the top flange portion 693 engages the top
surface of the modular assembly 675 sandwiching the assembly 675 in
place. An elastomeric material may be employed between the flange
693 and top surface of the assembly 675 to provide a lock tight
arrangement and substantial friction fit. To facilitate retention
of the modular assembly 675 in a particular rotary position a
plurality of locking tabs or detents 695 are formed on the outer
peripheral surface of the modular assembly. These locking tabs are
preferably formed of simply protrusions on a tab punched from the
surface of the modular assembly and cantilevered from joined area
697. Such an arrangement allows the locking tabs/detents 695 top
deflect inward and flush with the outer surface of the modular
assembly to not only facilitate installation of the retaining
collar 687, but to facilitate a simple repositioning of the modular
assembly as desired. The tabs/detents are also preferably chamfered
697 to facilitate easy installation of the retaining collar 687.
The retaining collar 687 is simply screed or tightened in place and
the inner surface of the retaining collar simply urges the tab
inward as the collar is tightened down. The retaining collar and
recessed in the main housing unit 612 together with the dimensions
of the modular assembly 675 are such that once in place, the
locking tabs/detents 695 vertically aligned with a series of
recesses 699 formed on the inner surface of the retaining collar. A
plurality of recesses 695 are provided to facilitate numerous
locked rotary positions of the modular assembly 675. The modular
assembly 675 simply need be rotated to a desire position until the
tabs/detents 675 engage a corresponding recess 699 and lock in
place. The cantilevered nature of the locking tab/detent 697
retains the rotary position of the modular assembly 675 until such
time as the user actively engages surfaces 675 to positively
reposition the modular assembly 675. Off course, the number and
spacing of the recesses 699, and tabs/detents 697 are matches such
that each tab coincidently engages a recessed position when in a
desired position. Increasing the number of recessed portions 699
will provide an increase number of positions to which the modular
assembly 675 may be positively retained in a particularly rotary
position. Off course the tabs may also be formed on a lower portion
of the modular assembly and engage recessed portions of the lower
portion of the main housing unit 612 if desired. Such an
arrangement would eliminate any tendency to accidentally loosen the
retaining collar 689. However, that is not large concern given the
limited rotational movement of the modular assembly 675 to within a
single 180 rotation in opposition directions.
[0081] Lastly, the modular assembly 675 may not only be selectively
positioned it may also be replaced. The nature of the modular
assembly lends itself to reconfiguration by changing out different
modular units. This may not only provide an end user unlimited
ergonomic configurations to which to choose, but also allow a
manufacturer to have a standard main housing unit and swap out
modular assemblies for a particular gaming platform or perhaps a
particular type of user. Thus a plurality of modular assemblies 675
having differing operational members are contemplated. In such an
embodiment, the communication cable/bundle 690 will be provided
with a connection member or plug to engage a corresponding mating
plug or receptacle within the housing unit 612. Such a game
controller unit provides unlimited configurations to both the end
user and manufacturer. Furthermore, while rotational displacement
has been shown and described, translational movement of a modular
assembly may also be employed to provide reconfigurations by a user
to accommodate for example left and right hand user.
[0082] Rather than a having a cord extending between the modular
assembly and internal wiring of the controller, rotary electrical
contacts may be employed between the modular assembly and main
housing unit. FIG. 14 depicts an alternate embodiment showing a
partial sectional view between the modular assembly and main
housing unit. In this alternate embodiment, the modular assembly
775 is equipped with a series of electrical contact projections 792
which engage matching continuous ring contacts 794 formed in the
main housing unit. While three such contacts are shown, it is
understood that sufficient contacts are provided for each specific
signal needed to support the operational members within the modular
unit. Such an assembly eliminates the need for unplugging and
plugging in the modular assembly during replacement. To replace the
modular unit in this embodiment all that is needed is that the
retainment collar removed and the modular assembly dislodged ad a
different modular assembly inserted.
[0083] The description of the preferred embodiments of the present
invention has been presented for the purpose of illustration in
accordance with the provisions of the Patent Statutes. It is not
intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise
forms disclosed. The embodiments disclosed hereinabove were chosen
in order to best illustrate the principles of the present invention
and its practical application to thereby enable those of ordinary
skill in the art to best utilize the invention in various
embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the
particular use contemplated, as long as the principles described
herein are followed. This application is therefore intended to
cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention using
its general principles. Further, this application is intended to
cover such departures from the present disclosure as come within
known or customary practice in the art to which this invention
pertains. Thus, changes can be made in the above-described
invention without departing from the intent and scope thereof. It
is also intended that the scope of the present invention be defined
by the claims appended thereto.
* * * * *