Game controllers keys

• US 6,409,600 B1
• Filed: 05/13/1999
• Issued: 06/25/2002
• Est. Priority Date: 05/13/1999
• Status: Expired due to Fees

• Current Assignee: Eleven Engineering Incorporated
• Original Assignee: Eleven Engineering Incorporated
• Inventors: Sobota, John, Hampson, Kip, Yu, Hee-Jong (Andy)
• Primary Examiner(s): ONEILL, MICHAEL W
• Application Number:
  US09/311,393
• Time in Patent Office: 1,139 Days
• Field of Search: 463/36-39, 273/148.B, 345/156, 345/157, 345/158, 345/159, 345/160, 345/161, 345/162, 345/163, 345/169, 200/5.A, 200/339, 200/341
• US Class Current: 463/37
• CPC Class Codes: A63F 13/24 Constructional details thereof, e.g. game controllers with detachable joystick handles
• CPC Class Codes: A63F 2300/1043 being characterized by constructional details

Abstract

An improved game controller. D-pad keys are positioned above a printed circuit board-with plungers guided by housing apertures. The D-pad key is top-loaded into contact with the housing to simplify manufacture and operating reliability. The D-pad key can be depressed downwardly until it contacts a pivot supported by a pivot post. The combination of elements permits significant design flexibility in the orientation and shape and operation of a D-pad key. Front mounted triggers replace front mounted buttons attached to a separate vertical printed circuit board. The triggers function with the main printed circuit board, thereby reducing cost and enhancing product reliability.

Claims

1. A game controller comprising:

a housing having an aperture through at least one portion of said housing;

a printed circuit board within said housing;

a switch proximate to said printed circuit board for selectively operating said printed circuit board;

a key insertable through said housing aperture for engagement with said housing, wherein said key is moveable relative within a selected movement range relative to said housing;

at least one plunger positioned between said key and said switch for translating movement of said key to said switch;

a plunger guide for controlling movement of said plunger; and

a pivot for limiting movement of said key toward said switch.

2. A game controller comprising:

a housing having an aperture through at least one portion of said housing;

a printed circuit board within said housing;

a switch proximate to said printed circuit board for selectively operating said printed circuit board;

a key insertable through said housing aperture for engagement with said housing, wherein said key is moveable relative within a selected movement range relative to said housing;

at least one plunger positioned between said key and said switch for translating movement of said key to said switch;

a pivot for limiting movement of said key toward said switch; and

a depression in said key for contacting said pivot.

3. A game controller comprising:

a housing having an aperture through at least one portion of said housing;

a printed circuit board within said housing;

a switch proximate to said printed circuit board for selectively operating said printed circuit board;

a key insertable through said housing aperture for engagement with said housing, wherein said key is moveable relative within a selected movement range relative to said housing;

clips attached to said key for selectively retaining said key in engagement with said housing;

at least one plunger positioned between said key and said switch for translating movement of said key to said switch; and

a pivot for limiting movement of said key toward said switch.