You can freely build on How the Nintendo D-Pad Works
This patent expired in 2005. Every claim — 0 independent, 0 dependent — is now unenforceable. Anyone can use, reproduce, manufacture, sell, or offer for sale this technology without a license.
Original assignee
Nintendo Co Ltd
Patent granted
1987
Expired
2005
Forward citations
129
What this patent covers
This patent describes the mechanical structure of the directional pad, or D-pad, found on game controllers. It uses a central fulcrum that allows a single key member to tilt in multiple directions. When a user presses one side of the button, the key tilts, pressing a flexible rubber layer down onto a specific electrical contact on the circuit board below. This creates a simple electrical connection that tells the game console which direction the player wants to move.
What is now free to use
All 0 claims of US 4687200 are in the public domain. Specifically:
The 0 dependent claims add narrowing limitations and are also free.
What is NOT covered
Patent expiry frees this specific invention. Separately-patented improvements made after expiry may still be protected.
Does not cover digital joysticks or analog sticks that measure the degree of tilt.
Does not cover touch-sensitive directional controls or capacitive surfaces.
Does not cover switches that use separate, individual buttons for each direction.
Does not cover wireless communication methods for sending the button press signal.
Who is building on this today
Nintendo remains the primary entity associated with this design, having refined it through generations of hardware. Many third-party controller manufacturers and retro-gaming hardware companies continue to utilize this exact mechanical architecture for their products.
Products built on expired version of this technology
Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) controller
Super Nintendo (SNES) controller
Game Boy directional pad
Modern retro-style game controllers
How to cite this patent in your documentation
Nintendo Co Ltd. US Patent 4687200. Multi-directional switch. Granted 1987, expired 2005. Now in the public domain.
Note: This is a convenience citation. Consult a patent attorney for formal freedom-to-operate analysis.
PatentBrief is an educational resource and does not provide legal advice. Patent expiration information is derived from USPTO records and may not reflect continuation patents, divisional filings, or separately-patented improvements. For commercial use or production decisions, obtain a formal freedom-to-operate (FTO) opinion from a registered patent attorney.