Snugon MO1 Chapter 3: Record of prototype and trial and error
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[Complete operation with one mouse] More than 60 types of key input can be registered | Snugon MO1
In Chapter 1, we talked about the attractive features of the Snugon MO1, and in Chapter 2, we talked about the issues that led to the creation of this unique idea, namely the awareness of the challenges facing conventional multi-button mice. .
In this third chapter, we will finally introduce the process of "giving shape to an idea," that is, the path of prototyping and trial and error . Before the concept in your head turns into something you can actually hold in your hands, there is a lot of trial and error, and sometimes unexpected obstacles to overcome. We hope to convey the real struggles of manufacturing.
First attempt: Making a model out of paper clay
In order to realize the idea of "placing two buttons on each of the five fingers," I decided to first make an initial model using paper clay that I had on hand. .
Anyway, I decided to just arrange the buttons in a way that would make them easy to press with each finger.
…The result was a rather creepy looking object (laughs). .
It's not just a matter of appearance. I soon noticed a fatal flaw. That was the problem of not being able to lift the mouse, which was also mentioned as a concern in Chapter 2. .
In this first model, we arranged all the buttons so that they would be pressed from top to bottom. This would allow us to use only one flat board inside, which we thought would be advantageous in terms of cost. However, there was nowhere to hook my fingers on the sides or top of the mouse, making it impossible to lift it. .
This is fatal for a mouse. This idea was rejected without even going ahead with the actual prototype . .
Second attempt: a more three-dimensional shape
Learning from my first failure, I next focused on making it easier to pick up . I decided to make a more three-dimensional model based on the shape of a vertical mouse. .
This time it felt good. When I actually put my hand on it, the placement of my fingers felt natural, and it seemed like all the buttons could be pressed as expected. And I was able to confirm that the all-important lifting action could be done smoothly by wrapping the device around the thumb and the entire palm of my hand. .
We were convinced that this would work, and decided to move on to the next step: 3D design. .
Facing the wall: the reality of 3D design
Since I had no experience with 3D design, I asked a specialized mechanical design company for help. Based on the model, precise 3D data is created on a PC.
However, as the data collection progressed, problems that could not be seen by simply making models began to become apparent. .
1. Overly complex internal structure and space issues
The three-dimensional shape created an extremely narrow space inside. It turned out that it was very difficult to place a microswitch there. .
This design required us to use a shorter switch rather than the microswitch we had originally wanted to use.
2. Cost issues (internal mechanisms)
Each button switch needs to be able to withstand the force of a finger and be fixed in the correct direction. The internal mechanism required to achieve this complex three-dimensional arrangement was expected to be very expensive. .
As you can see in the image, the red part is the mechanism for fixing the board in three dimensions, which is very complicated. In addition, the board that is fixed to this mechanism has to be divided into five small parts and fixed separately.
3. Cost issues (molds)
In addition, we realized that we would need at least three or more molds for the resin molding required to mass-produce this complex shape, because there were seven resin parts, including the wheels. This would significantly increase the initial investment.
It was difficult to continue in this state, both in terms of the internal structure and costs. It was a tough decision, but we decided to abandon this second design idea and start over from scratch. .
Third time's a charm: Starting afresh from shape considerations
So I went back to square one and started making my third model. This time I used oil-based clay because it would be easier to correct (in hindsight I regret that I should have used paper clay, which hardens better and doesn't leave a mark...). . Our goal was to "keep the internal structure as simple as possible while still maintaining a three-dimensional design that is easy to hold." .
The incline on the palm side is gentler than in the second model, but by leaving a firm grip on the thumb side, we sought a shape that would allow for easy lifting. The interior space has also been designed to be free of any excessively narrow spaces, and the switches have been placed in a way that is not too cramped. .
By this time, I had become somewhat proficient at 3D design, so I did the 3D design myself. I 3D scanned the model, imported it into the design software, and created the shape.
Due to the concept of placing a button for each of the five fingers, the internal structure was inevitably more complex than that of a typical mouse. .
The internal space is designed to be spacious enough that I had no trouble arranging the internal parts.
From 3D Printing Prototype to Mass Production
With the 3D data complete, the next step was to create an actual "moving prototype." Using my experience with homemade keyboards, I designed the circuit board, created firmware (software to control the mouse), and printed the case on a 3D printer. .
The first time I held the prototype in my hands, I was impressed with how easy it was to use. The action of picking it up was smooth, and the 10 buttons were naturally placed under my fingertips, making them easy to press intuitively. It was the moment when all the hard work paid off.
With each board and software, there were of course struggles and a lot of trial and error, but after repeated improvements we were finally able to reach a state where we were satisfied with everything.
Now we are finally moving on to the next step towards mass production. We found a resin molding company that would cooperate with us, and started to produce mass production samples through injection molding . .
The first sample is a smooth one with no surface treatment.
It feels pretty good.
From this point, we made minor adjustments to the mold and created a sample with a surface finish (embossing) that was close to that of the final product.
That's pretty good!
In addition, we also produced a white sample as a color variation.
The Snugon MO1 was born in this way, but there are many more technical innovations that went into achieving its unique shape and button layout .
In the next chapter, Chapter 4, titled "Technical Features and Ingenuity of the Snugon MO1," we will go into more detail about the technology behind this mouse, both in terms of hardware and firmware.