Surface Arc is a unique travel mouse that has a flat design but curves for use. When folded, it turns on automatically and turns off when flat. A teardown video by [Mr Teardown] reveals the inner workings of the device, showcasing a magnetic connection near the bottom end of the mouse’s “tail” that allows for quick flex action. The on/off functionality is controlled by a small tab that actuates a microswitch, rather than using magnets.
One surprising design feature is the absence of a mechanical scroll wheel, with the mouse instead using touch sensors and a haptic feedback motor to simulate the feel of a traditional scroll wheel. Despite its sleek and effective design, the teardown reveals that the mouse contains over 70 components and 23 screws of different types, making reassembly a time-consuming process.
For those interested in more mouse teardowns, there is also an old optical mouse from the 80s that requires a special surface to work on. Overall, the Surface Arc mouse is praised for its innovative design, but there are some inefficiencies that could be optimized.
In summary, the Surface Arc mouse is a travel-friendly device with a unique folding mechanism that enables quick flex action. Despite lacking a mechanical scroll wheel, the mouse offers similar functionality through touch sensors and haptic feedback. The teardown video sheds light on the inner workings of the device, revealing over 70 components and a complex reassembly process. Overall, the Surface Arc mouse is a stylish and innovative piece of hardware that combines form and function effectively.
Article Source
https://hackaday.com/2024/05/25/the-secret-behind-the-motion-of-microsofts-bendy-mouse/