Video game and simulator joystick controller with geared potentiometer actuation
US5436640A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 30, 1994 |
| Grant date | Jul 25, 1995 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 30, 2014 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG05G2009/04774
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A joystick controller for a video simulation system having a geared potentiometer actuation mechanism. The joystick controller comprises a base, a handle mounted on an actuation shaft, and first and second gimbals pivotally mounted on the base by pivot members for rotational movement about respective axes. The joystick shaft is coupled to the first and second gimbals so that the gimbals rotate about their corresponding axes responsive to movement of the joystick handle. Each gimbal has a corresponding potentiometer for sensing the rotational movement thereof. The first gimbal has a first gear connected thereto for rotational movement therewith. The corresponding potentiometer is mounted on the base opposite the first gear and a second gear is connected to the stem of the potentiometer such that the second gear is in tooth engagement with the first gear. A similar gearing configuration is used to couple the second gimbal to the corresponding potentiometer. A cable is connected to the to the two potentiometers to allow their settings read by the video simulation system when the cable is connected thereto.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.