Wearable device for electrical quasi-static human body communication and method thereof
By employing electrically quasi-static human body communication (HBC) technology in wearable devices, EQS signals are transmitted through contact and proximity between a conductor and the user's body, solving the problems of form factor limitations in wired communication and high power loss in wireless communication, thus achieving low-power, high-efficiency, and secure data transmission.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Filing Date
- 2024-12-09
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-14
Smart Images

Figure CN122396949A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Cross-references
[0001] This application is based on and benefits from U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 608,259, filed December 10, 2023, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field
[0002] This invention relates to communication interfaces, and more specifically to a wearable device (e.g., an augmented reality (AR) head-mounted device) and method thereof for implementing quasi-static human body communication (HBC). Background Technology
[0003] In recent years, a large number of wireless devices have emerged on the market for collecting various sensory signals from users' bodies. Examples of wireless devices include wireless headphones, smartwatches, smartphones, and virtual reality headsets. These wireless devices typically record user-relevant sensor data (such as audio / video data and biophysical signals) onto at least one computing device to at least visualize the sensor data or provide any sensory feedback to the user. Existing wearable devices (such as augmented reality (AR) headsets) employ wired or radio frequency (RF) and electromagnetic (EM) wireless setups to transmit sensory data around the human body using wired or wireless communication protocols. However, wired communication protocols suffer from form factor issues, making their implementation impractical for most applications.
[0004] Furthermore, wireless communication protocols (such as RF EM technology) are widely used for wireless data / signal transmission between wearable devices and other computing devices. However, RF EM technology involves significant power loss when used around the human body. In addition, wireless communication protocols pose security and vulnerability risks because signals are detectable between the transmitting and receiving points.
[0005] Therefore, there is a need for a wearable device to enable electrically quasi-static human body communication (HBC) in order to efficiently transfer data between wearable devices and computing devices, in order to overcome the above limitations and provide other technological advantages. Summary of the Invention
[0006] This section is provided to introduce, in a simplified form, certain objects and aspects of this disclosure, which are further set forth in the detailed description below. This summary is not intended to identify key features or scope of the claimed subject matter.
[0007] In one aspect, this disclosure relates to a wearable device. The wearable device includes a plurality of sensors configured to generate perceived data for transmission to at least one computing device associated with a user. Furthermore, the wearable device includes a first set of conductors mounted on at least a portion of a first support frame of the wearable device. During operation of the wearable device, the first set of conductors is in contact with a portion of the user's body. The wearable device includes a second set of conductors mounted on at least a portion of a second support frame of the wearable device. During operation of the wearable device, the second set of conductors is positioned close to the user's body. The wearable device also includes a processor communicatively coupled to the plurality of sensors, the first set of conductors, and the second set of conductors. The processor is configured to generate at least a data packet for transmission to at least one computing device of the user. The data packet is generated based at least on processing perceived data captured by the plurality of sensors. The processor is configured to apply an excitation voltage between the first set of conductors and the second set of conductors to at least enable the data packet to be transmitted from the wearable device to the at least one computing device via an electrically quasi-static (EQS) signal within a predefined frequency range. Furthermore, once an excitation voltage is applied, the first set of conductors generates an electrical quasi-static (EQS) signal, and the second set of conductors applies the EQS signal to the user's body to transmit data packets from the wearable device to at least one computing device via human body communication (HBC). Additionally, the processor is configured to trigger a feedback module associated with the wearable device to generate a notification in response to successful data packet transmission to at least one computing device.
[0008] In another aspect, this disclosure relates to a method performed by a wearable device. The method includes: generating perceptual data via a plurality of sensors for transmission between the wearable device and at least one computing device associated with a user. The method includes: generating a data packet via a processor for transmission to the at least one computing device of the user. The data packet is generated at least based on processing the perceptual data captured by the plurality of sensors. Furthermore, the method includes: applying an excitation voltage via a processor between a first set of conductors and a second set of conductors to at least enable the transmission of the data packet from the wearable device to the at least one computing device via a quasi-static (EQS) signal within a predefined frequency range. Once the excitation voltage is applied, the first set of conductors generates the EQS signal, and the second set of conductors applies the EQS signal to the user's body for transmission of the data packet from the wearable device to the at least one computing device via human body communication (HBC). Furthermore, the method includes: triggering a feedback module associated with the wearable device via a processor to generate a notification in response to successful transmission of the data packet to the at least one computing device.
[0009] In another aspect, this disclosure relates to a non-transitory computer-readable medium containing processor-executable instructions that cause a processor to generate a data packet for transmission to at least one computing device for a user. The data packet is generated based at least on preprocessing of perceived data captured by the plurality of sensors. The processor applies an excitation voltage between a first set of conductors and a second set of conductors to at least enable the transmission of the data packet from a wearable device to the at least one computing device via a quasi-static (EQS) signal within a predefined frequency range. Once the excitation voltage is applied, the first set of conductors generates the EQS signal, and the second set of conductors applies the EQS signal to the user's body to transmit the data packet from the wearable device to the at least one computing device via human body communication (HBC). Furthermore, the processor triggers a feedback device associated with the wearable device to generate a notification in response to successful transmission of the data packet to the at least one computing device. Attached Figure Description
[0010] The following detailed description of exemplary embodiments will be more readily understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The drawings illustrate exemplary structures of this disclosure for illustrative purposes. However, this disclosure is not limited to the specific devices, tools, and means disclosed herein. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that the drawings are not drawn to scale. Where possible, the same elements are represented by the same numbers: Figure 1 An example representation of an environment for enabling communication between a wearable device and at least one computing device via an electrically quasi-static (EQS)-human body communication (HBC) network, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, is shown. Figure 2A A schematic diagram of an exemplary wearable device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 2B A schematic diagram of an exemplary wearable device worn by a user according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 2C A block diagram representation of one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, depicting data transmission between an exemplary wearable device and at least one computing device; Figure 3 Exemplary simulation results according to one embodiment of the present disclosure are shown, illustrating the differences between conventional high-speed electromagnetic (EM) radio frequency (RF) communication and EQS-HBC communication technology implemented in wearable devices; Figure 4 Simulation results according to one embodiment of the present disclosure are shown, which depict the process of increased electric field strength due to the extension of the second set of conductors across the user's head; Figure 5Simulation results according to one embodiment of the present disclosure are shown, which depict the process of increasing electric field strength due to the extension of the second set of conductors along the direction from the head to the neck and along the bottom edge of the wearable device; Figure 6 Simulation results according to one embodiment of the present disclosure are shown, depicting the final dimensions of the physical / geometric design of the second set of conductors in a wearable device implementing EQS-HBC; Figure 7 The following is a graphical representation of an embodiment of the present disclosure, which depicts the electric field of the receiver and the physical quantities of the received voltage in the x-direction. Figure 8 The graphic representation of one embodiment of the present disclosure depicts the electric field and received voltage (potential difference) of a prototype receiver surrounding a user (from forehead to neck). Figure 9 The following is a graphical representation of an embodiment of the present disclosure, depicting the electric field and received voltage around a prototype receiver for a user. Figure 10 The simulation results according to one embodiment of the present disclosure depict the electric field around the user of the wearable device, including a second set of conductors, when placed on or not placed on the nose pad and bridge of the wearable device. Figure 11 The graphic representation of one embodiment of the present disclosure depicts the electric field and received voltage of a prototype receiver around a user when the size of a first set of conductors near the temple tip or back of the wearable device changes. Figure 12 A flowchart is shown illustrating a method performed by a wearable device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the method being used to realize communication between the wearable device and at least one computing device via an EQS signal; and Figure 13 A simplified block diagram representation of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.
[0011] Unless otherwise specified, the accompanying drawings mentioned in this specification should not be construed as being drawn to scale, and are merely illustrative in practice. Detailed Implementation
[0012] For purposes of brevity and illustrative purposes, this disclosure is described primarily by reference to its embodiments. The embodiments of this disclosure described herein can be used in various combinations. Details are set forth in the following description to provide an understanding of this disclosure. However, it will be apparent that this disclosure can be practiced without being limited to all such details. Furthermore, throughout this disclosure, the term "a" is intended to mean at least one specific element. The term "a" may also mean more than one specific element. As used herein, the term "comprising" means including but not limited to. The term "based on" means at least partially based on, and the term "for example" means, for example, but not limited to. The term "related" means closely related to or suitable for a matter being performed or considered.
[0013] To facilitate understanding of the principles of this disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiments shown in the figures, and specific language will be used to describe them. However, it should be understood that this does not imply any limitation on the scope of this disclosure. As will often happen to those skilled in the art, such modifications and further alterations to the illustrated system, as well as such further applications of the principles of this disclosure, should be considered within the scope of this disclosure. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are examples and explanations of this disclosure and are not intended to limit it.
[0014] In this document, the term "exemplary" is used to mean "as an example, instance, or illustration." Any embodiment or implementation of the subject matter of the invention described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. The term "comprising" or any other variations thereof is intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, and therefore, the presence of one or more devices, subsystems, elements, structures, or components preceding "comprising..." does not exclude the presence of other devices, subsystems, or additional submodules without further limitation. The phrases "in one embodiment," "in another embodiment," "in an exemplary embodiment," and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily all, refer to the same embodiment.
[0015] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. The systems, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and are not intended to be limiting. A computer system configured by an application (standalone system, client system, server system, or computer-implemented system) may constitute a “module” (or “subsystem”) configured and operated to perform certain operations. In one embodiment, a “module” or “subsystem” may be implemented mechanically or electronically, and thus the module includes dedicated circuitry or logic (within a dedicated processor) permanently configured to perform certain operations. In another embodiment, a “module” or “subsystem” may also include programmable logic or circuitry (enclosed within a general-purpose processor or other programmable processor) temporarily configured by software to perform certain operations. Therefore, the terms “module” or “subsystem” should be understood to encompass a tangible entity that can be an entity physically constructed and permanently configured (hardwired) or temporarily configured (programmed) to operate and / or perform certain operations described herein.
[0016] Now refer to the attached diagram, especially the reference... Figures 1 to 13 Similar reference numerals throughout the figures denote corresponding features, and the figures illustrate preferred embodiments which will be described in the context of the following exemplary systems and / or methods.
[0017] Figure 1 An example representation of an environment 100 associated with at least some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Although the environment 100 is presented in one arrangement, other arrangements are possible, wherein multiple portions (or other portions) of the environment 100 are arranged differently or interconnected. The environment 100 includes a user 102, a wearable device 104, and at least one computing device 106. Some non-limiting examples of the computing device 106 may include a laptop computer, a smartphone, a desktop computer, a workstation terminal, a personal digital assistant, or any computing device that is typically capable of communicating with the wearable device 104.
[0018] Wearable device 104 is exemplarily described as goggles or glasses. Some non-limiting examples of wearable device 104 may include augmented reality (AR) devices, virtual reality (VR) devices, and mixed reality (MR) devices. Furthermore, wearable device 104 is uniquely designed to integrate more powerful processing capabilities into a smaller unit. In other words, wearable device 104 is designed to include a compact and lightweight design, allowing user 102 easy use. Wearable device 104 includes multiple sensors (not shown). The multiple sensors may include at least an imaging module, a microphone, a biosensor, etc. The multiple sensors in wearable device 104 can detect audio data, image data, video data, environmental parameters, etc. The data generated by the multiple sensors (i.e., audio data, image data, video data, environmental parameters, etc.) corresponds to perceived data. In some exemplary embodiments, wearable device 104 may also include a smartwatch, a smart ring, an AR / VR headset, or any other form of wearable device.
[0019] Wearable device 104 may include a processing module (not shown) for processing sensed data generated by multiple sensors. Furthermore, this processing module can transmit the processed sensed data to at least one computing device 106 via a communication network 108. The communication network 108 enables the transmission of sensed data between wearable device 104 and at least one computing device 106 via human body communication (HBC) using an electrically quasi-static (EQS) signal. In other words, the processing module of wearable device 104, communicating around the body of user 102, couples the necessary electric field around the body of user 102 to achieve communication. Additionally, wearable device 104 can generate notifications that provide human feedback on any data received by at least one computing device 106.
[0020] Figure 1 The number and arrangement of systems, devices, and / or networks shown are provided as examples only. Other systems, devices, and / or networks may exist; fewer systems, devices, and / or networks; different systems, devices, and / or networks, and / or compared to… Figure 1 The systems, devices, and / or networks shown are arranged differently.
[0021] although Figure 1 Only a few components and subsystems are disclosed, but other components and subsystems not shown may exist, such as, but not limited to, ports, routers, repeaters, firewall devices, network devices, databases, network-attached storage devices, user equipment, other processing systems, servers, assets, machinery, instruments, facilities, any other devices and combinations thereof.
[0022] Those skilled in the art should understand that Figure 1The hardware shown may vary for a specific implementation. For example, other peripheral devices, such as optical disc drives, local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), and wireless devices (e.g., Wi-Fi adapters, graphics adapters, disk controllers, input / output (I / O) adapters, etc.) may be used in addition to or in lieu of the hardware shown. The examples shown are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to imply any architectural limitations with respect to this disclosure.
[0023] Figure 2A A schematic diagram of a wearable device 104 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. As shown, the wearable device 104 may be goggles (e.g., augmented reality (AR) devices or smart glasses). Typically, goggles (or wearable device 104) include all the typical mechanical components of typical goggles, including but not limited to lenses, frames, connecting members, end-pieces, temples, temple tips, and nose bridge / nose pads.
[0024] Wearable device 104 includes a plurality of sensors 202. Sensors 202 may include (e.g., but not limited to) image sensors, at least one audio device, and one or more biosensors. Furthermore, wearable device 104 includes a first set of conductors 204. The first set of conductors 204 is mounted on at least a portion of a first support frame 206 of wearable device 104. Specifically, the first set of conductors 204 is mounted on the inner surface of at least a portion of the first support frame 206 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 2A (208 in the original text). The first support frame 206 includes the temples and temple sheaths of the wearable device 104 (or goggles). Therefore, it should be noted that the first set of conductors 204 is mounted on at least a portion of the inner surface 208 of the temples and / or temple sheaths of the wearable device 104. Furthermore, the first set of conductors 204 is mounted on at least a portion of the inner surface 208 of the first support frame 206, and during operation of the wearable device 104 (i.e., as...), Figure 2B As shown, when user 102 wears wearable device 104, it is in contact with at least the head structure of user 102. In other words, the first set of conductors 204 mounted on the temple tail sleeve and temple of the goggles (or wearable device 104) is in direct contact with the side of the head on one or both sides (e.g., Figure 2B (As shown). The first set of conductors 204 corresponds to the signal conductor, which is configured to facilitate data transmission. It should be understood that the signal conductor is fixed to the user's head through minute contact with the user 102's body, and a cuboid reference plane (i.e., the first set of conductors 204) is modeled on the computer-aided design of the eyeglass surface (i.e., wearable device 104).
[0025] In one implementation, the area of the first set of conductors 204 is at least 5 mm × 1 cm, with 5 mm × 5 mm in contact with the body of the user 102 to achieve optimal signal coupling. In other words, a wearable device 104 (including the first set of conductors 204) with a contact area of less than 5 mm × 5 mm and a total area of less than 5 mm × 1 cm will operate in a suboptimal EQS field coupling mode for communication around the body of the user 102.
[0026] The first set of conductors 204 is configured with an elongated profile, having a predetermined width range relative to the size of the wearable device 104, to at least maintain maximum signal coupling for data transmission and to enable variable size specifications for the wearable device 104. The elongated profile of the first set of conductors 204 refers to its thin and narrow design. Furthermore, the size specifications of the wearable device 104 refer to its physical dimensions, shape, and design features.
[0027] Furthermore, the first set of conductors 204, designed with an elongated profile, generates a surface area whose width is negligible relative to the size of the glasses (or wearable device 104). This design choice minimizes the size of the wearable device 104. Specifically, the width of the first set of conductors 204 is independent of the signal level. Additionally, the first set of conductors 204 can be configured with a variable width, thus deviating from the requirement of thinness relative to the size of the wearable device 104. While this adjustment deviates from a thin conductor configuration, it still maintains the equivalent functionality of the wearable device 104. This configuration helps to increase the size of the wearable device 104.
[0028] In one embodiment, the first set of conductors 204 can be mounted on one or more components of the wearable device 104, utilizing a sufficient and large area to achieve low loss of human body communication signals. The one or more components of the wearable device 104 can be eyeglass lenses, frames, nose bridges, nose pads, posts, hinges, or any location on the wearable device 104. The mounting of the first set of conductors 204 enables effective EQS field interaction, thereby enhancing human body communication and minimizing loss of human body communication signals.
[0029] In addition, wearable device 104 includes a second set of conductors 210. The second set of conductors 210 is mounted on at least a portion of a second support frame 212 of wearable device 104. During operation of wearable device 104, the second set of conductors 210 is positioned close to the body of user 102. The second support frame 212 includes at least connecting members (e.g., nose bridge components), mounting members (e.g., frames and hinges), and a set of support structures (e.g., nose pads). As shown, the second set of conductors 210 spans the entire eyeglass / goggles structure (i.e., wearable device 104), from one hinge to another, thereby creating a maximum EQS field on and around user 102.
[0030] The second set of conductors 210 corresponds to a floating ground or reference electrode. The second set of conductors 210 is configured to effectively apply or acquire EQS signals to or from the human body (i.e., user 102) for electronic communication purposes. Specifically, the second set of conductors 210, mounted on at least a portion of the connecting member, mounting member, and support structure assembly of the second support frame 212, is positioned close to the body of user 102 at a predetermined distance during operation of the wearable device 104. The second set of conductors 210 positioned close to user 102 at a predetermined distance during operation of the wearable device 104 operates in a contactless mode for enabling communication between the wearable device 104 and at least one computing device 104.
[0031] Specifically, during the operation of wearable device 104 (i.e., when user 102 wears wearable device 104), a second set of conductors 210 positioned at a predetermined distance from user 102 facilitates the transmission of quasi-static (EQS) signals on and around user 102's body and minimizes channel loss during communication. The second set of conductors 210 is positioned at a predetermined distance from user 102 to enable data transmission (or EQS signals) around user 102, corresponding to a suboptimal operating mode of wearable device 104. In other words, in suboptimal mode, the second set of conductors 210 is positioned as far away from user 102 as possible to generate the strongest EQS field on and around user 102. The second set of conductors 210, positioned away from user 102's body, is carefully arranged to minimize signal attenuation and promote effective coupling of quasi-static (EQS) signals from the body. This arrangement aims to maximize the generation and reception of the EQS field on and around user 102's body, thereby enhancing the communication signal-to-noise ratio.
[0032] In one embodiment, in the non-contact operation mode of the second set of conductors 210, the conductor span of the second set of conductors 210 around the nose pad / bridge / center of the wearable device 104 can be reduced to maintain a sufficient distance between the second set of conductors 210 and the user 102, thereby maximizing the excitation of the EQS field. In one embodiment, in the non-contact mode, the second set of conductors 210 can be configured within the entire frame of the wearable device 104 (including the area below the eyes).
[0033] In another embodiment, the second set of conductors 210 is positioned across the entire structure of the wearable device 104, from one hinge to another, in order to generate the maximum EQS field on and around the user 102's body.
[0034] In another embodiment, the conductor span of the second set of conductors 210 located on the temple (i.e., the first support frame 202) may be reduced at a location closer to the mounting of the user 102 (e.g., location 202a of the first support frame 202). Figure 2B (As shown). In addition, the second set of conductors 210 at the hinge may be proportionally thinned as it moves toward the mounting point (e.g., position 202b of the first mounting frame 202) to obtain the maximum EQS field for human body communication purposes.
[0035] Figure 2CA block diagram representation according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, depicting data transmission between a wearable device 104 and at least one computing device 106. The wearable device 104 includes a first processor 220(1). The first processor 220(1) corresponds to the processor of the wearable device 104. The first processor 220(1) is communicatively coupled to a plurality of sensors 202, a first set of conductors 204, and a second set of conductors 210 via a first communication interface 222(1). The first processor 220(1) is configured to generate data packets for transmission to at least one computing device 106 via a user 102. The data packets are generated based at least on processing perceived data captured by the plurality of sensors 202. For example, the perceived data may include audio / video data or video stream data or text data, gesture data, etc. The processing operations performed by the first processor 220(1) may be (but are not limited to) compression and noise removal of the perceived data for transmission to at least one computing device 106. The wearable device 104 then transmits the data packets using EQS-HBC, as described above. Furthermore, at least one computing device 106 includes a second processor 220(2) and a second communication interface 222(2) communicatively coupled to the first set of conductors 204 and the second set of conductors 210. The second processor 220(2) is configured to process data received from the wearable device 104 via the second communication interface 222(2). The processing of data from the wearable device 104 is performed on the computing device 106 (i.e., the second processor 220(2)). Since the data processing of the wearable device 104 is performed on the computing device 106, the wearable device 104 requires significantly lower power.
[0036] Specifically, an excitation voltage can be applied between a first set of conductors 204 and a second set of conductors 210 to at least enable the transmission of data packets from the wearable device 104 to at least one computing device 106 via a quasi-static (EQS) signal within a predefined frequency range. Once the excitation voltage is applied, the first set of conductors 204 generates an EQS signal, and the second set of conductors 210 facilitates the transmission of the EQS signal to the body of the user 102. This enables human body communication (HBC) for transmitting data packets between the wearable device 104 and at least one computing device 106. The first set of conductors 204, mounted on the inner surface 208 of the first support frame 206, orients at least one first position vector associated with the first set of conductors 204 toward the body of the user 102. This allows contact between the first set of conductors 204 and the body of the user 102, thereby enabling human body communication (HBC) via the EQS signal. Furthermore, the second set of conductors 210 mounted on the second support frame 212 orients at least one second position vector associated with the second set of conductors 210 away from the body of the user 102 and operates in a suboptimal mode. This maximizes the transmission of the quasi-static (EQS) signal, thereby enabling human body communication (HBC). Additionally, the predefined frequency range is approximately (e.g., but not limited to) 0.1 MHz to 100 MHz or higher. The first and second position vectors generally refer to vectors that specify the position of a point or segment of the conductors (i.e., the first set of conductors 204 and the second set of conductors 210) in space. When analyzing electric fields, magnetic fields, and currents, the first and second position vectors respectively define the geometry of the first set of conductors 204 and the second set of conductors 210.
[0037] In one embodiment, a first set of conductors 204 mounted on one or more components of the wearable device 104 is positioned close to the body of the user 102. This enables suboptimal body communication via quasi-static (EQS) signals. During operation of the wearable device 104 in suboptimal body communication mode, the first set of conductors 204 is positioned near the user 102 by any contact or proximity, thereby improving the efficiency of the communication process. Due to the technical and technological advantages provided by the present invention, the wearable device 104 operates with significantly lower power consumption. This result is due to the transfer of sensed data and the processing of sensed data elsewhere on the user 102's body (e.g., in computing device 106).
[0038] In one embodiment, a second set of conductors 210 mounted on at least a portion of the second support frame 212 operates in a mode of contact with the user 102's body during operation of the wearable device 104. The second set of conductors 210 operating in contact with the user 102's body triggers current-based quasi-static (EQS) signal communication. The direct contact between the second set of conductors 210 and the user 102's body facilitates communication using an EQS field, generating a localized field strength around the excitation point (i.e., the location 202a where the first set of conductors 204 contacts the user 102).
[0039] It is well known that water containing conductive particles (such as electrolytes and salts) conducts electricity better. The human body is filled with an aqueous solution called tissue fluid, which lies beneath the skin and around the body's cells. Tissue fluid is responsible for transporting nutrients from the bloodstream to the body's cells and is filled with proteins, salts, sugars, hormones, neurotransmitters, and various other molecules that help maintain normal bodily functions. Therefore, the tissue fluid within the user's (i.e., user 102) body allows for the establishment of circuits between two or more communication devices (computing device 106 and wearable device 104) located anywhere in the body. Thus, the user's (i.e., user 102's) body can be referred to as a human body communication (HBC) system. Therefore, in order to achieve data transmission using human body communication signals, this human body communication system may include transmitting electrodes (i.e., the first set of conductors 204) and receiving electrodes (i.e., the second set of conductors 210). Obviously, there is no common ground, nor a closed path for current flow. However, a closed path is formed from the computing device 106 and wearable device 104 to the ground using parasitic capacitance. These parasitic capacitances can be referred to as capacitive HBC. The formation of parasitic capacitance constitutes a closed circuit, thereby enabling data transmission between computing device 106 and wearable device 104 through a low-resistivity tissue layer located within the body.
[0040] Furthermore, the first processor 220(1) triggers a feedback module 224 associated with the wearable device 104 to generate a notification in response to a data packet being successfully transmitted to at least one computing device 106. For example, the wearable device 104 may include audio or video feedback, or some indication or output, that provides human feedback based on any data received by the at least one computing device 106 after processing by artificial intelligence (AI) or computer vision. The feedback module 224 may include a display interface, a speaker, etc.
[0041] Figure 3Simulation results 300 according to one embodiment of this disclosure are shown, depicting the differences between conventional high-speed EM RF communication and the EQS-HBC communication technology implemented in wearable device 104. A key innovation in reducing power consumption and improving security lies in reducing the operating frequency, thereby confining the signal to an extremely narrow area around the human body (as shown in a) at 10 MHz. It is evident from the electric field diagrams comparing the EM RF-based simulation (1 GHz) and the EQS-HBC-based excitation (10 MHz) that the EQS-HBC excitation locally confines the signal and energy to the body of user 102. More specifically, the frequency reduction brings the entire body of user 102 to the same potential and allows for several key simplifications in the physical design.
[0042] Figure 4 Simulation results 400 according to one embodiment of this disclosure are shown, depicting the process of increased electric field levels due to the extension of the second set of conductors 210 across the user's head 102 (from one ear to the other). The physical geometry of the wearable device 100 employing EQS-HBC is partly described in... Figure 4 As shown in the figure, the grounding plane extends along the x-direction, and the amplitude of the electric field around the user's body (i.e., user 102) increases. The x-direction can be the direction of the position vector on the human body (i.e., user 102) pointing from one eye to the other. Three grounding dimensions in the x-direction are used for comparison, as shown in the figure. In one example, the lighter-colored portions in the electric field diagram represent higher electric fields (e.g.,...). Figure 4 (As shown). Due to the X-direction reference / ground dimension being only 1 mm, the field is primarily concentrated on the upper part of the human body (i.e., user 102). When the second set of conductors 210 spans the entire left side of the wearable device 104, the field extends to cover the entire body of user 102, but the amplitude is relatively low (e.g., Figure 4 (As shown). It should be noted that the electric field strength may increase when the second set of conductors 210 extends beyond the head of user 102 on the other side.
[0043] Figure 5 The simulation results 500, representing one embodiment of this disclosure, depict the progression of the electric field level increase as the second set of conductors 210 extends along the direction from the head to the neck and along the bottom frame of the wearable device. The electric field strength also increases as the second set of conductors 210 extends around the frame along the z-direction (represented by the position vector from the user 102's chin to the eyes).
[0044] Figure 6The simulation results 600, representing one embodiment of this disclosure, depict the final dimensions of the physical / geometric design of the second set of conductors 210 for implementing EQS-HBC in a wearable device 104. The second set of conductors 210 extends in the y-direction along the temple direction of the wearable device 104 (defined from the face to the back of the head). In this example, insignificant effects are observed in the 0-20 mm range, but a decrease in the electric field strength around the human body (i.e., user 102) is observed as the span increases beyond 40 mm. This is because the second set of conductors 210 moves closer to the signal plane (i.e., the first set of conductors 204, together with the human body (i.e., user 102), forms the signal plane). The decrease in electric field strength depends at least on the shape of the person's head and the span of the second set of conductors 210 relative to user 102.
[0045] Figure 7 This is a graphical representation 700 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, depicting the physical quantities of the electric field and received voltage in the x-direction of the receiver. The physical quantities of the electric field and received voltage in the x-direction of the receiver in graphical representation 700 are drawn assuming an effective receiver length of 1 cm to provide quantitative measurements. The sharply increasing electric field (e.g., 160 mm+ beyond the human head) is depicted by circling the emphasized portion. Figure 7 (As shown).
[0046] Figure 8 This is a graphical representation 800 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, depicting the electric field and received voltage (potential difference) of a prototype receiver around the user 102 (from forehead to neck). It should be understood that the results obtained by adding a second set of conductors 210 to the bottom frame of the wearable device 104 indicate that the voltage and electric field values moderately improve with the amount of grounding near the hinge of the wearable device 104 extending downwards towards the cheek. The main increase in the slope towards the ends is due to the extension of the second set of conductors 210 along the bottom frame of the wearable device 104.
[0047] Figure 9 This is a graphical representation 900 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, depicting the electric field and received voltage of a prototype receiver around user 102. The graphical representation 900 depicting the electric field and received voltage of the prototype receiver around user 102 is drawn based on a factor that increases the size of the second set of conductors 210 along the temple direction of the wearable device 104. The graphical representation 900 depicts significant damage when the second set of conductors 210 exceeds approximately 10 mm.
[0048] Figure 10The simulation results 1000 based on one embodiment of this disclosure depict the electric field of the wearable device 104, including the second set of conductors 210, surrounding the user 102 when the second set of conductors 210 is placed and not placed on the nose pad and bridge of the wearable device 104. Since the nose pad and bridge of the wearable device 104 are very close to and nearly in contact with the user 102, current communication is enabled rather than capacitive communication. In this case, the channel loss is significantly higher over long distances, but in highly localized environments, the channel loss is extremely low due to the high-intensity field generated by the highly localized current. In other words, this channel is suitable for ultra-short-range communication but not for long-range communication.
[0049] In one example, for applications involving front-to-back head communication or highly localized fields for applications including but not limited to smart contact lenses, necklaces, etc., when user 102 wears wearable device 104, the second set of conductors 210 may have openings around the nose pads, bridge of the nose and lower frame that come into contact with the human body (or user 102).
[0050] Figure 11 This is a graphical representation 1100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, depicting a situation where the dimensions of the first set of conductors 204 are near the temple end cap or temple of the wearable device 104 (e.g., Figure 2A The prototype receiver (shown in 202b) exhibits varying electric field and received voltage around user 102 during rear-end changes. As can be seen from graphical representation 1100, the optimal configuration involves the minimum contact area between the first set of conductors 204 and the human body (user 102). This invention combines the capacitive and current-based applications of EQS-HBC as described above.
[0051] Figure 12 A flowchart of a method 1200 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, the method being performed by a wearable device 104 for communication between the wearable device 104 and at least one computing device 106 via an EQS signal. The method 1200 begins at step 1202.
[0052] In step 1202, method 1200 includes generating sensing data via a plurality of sensors 202 for transmission between wearable device 104 and at least one computing device 106 associated with user 102.
[0053] In step 1204, method 1200 includes: generating a data packet for transmission to at least one computing device 106 of user 102. The data packet is generated based at least on processing of sensed data captured by the plurality of sensors 202.
[0054] In step 1206, method 600 includes applying an excitation voltage between a first set of conductors 204 and a second set of conductors 210 to at least enable data packets to be transmitted from wearable device 104 to at least one computing device 106 via a quasi-static (EQS) signal within a predefined frequency range. Furthermore, once the excitation voltage is applied, the first set of conductors 204 generates the EQS signal, and the second set of conductors 210 applies the EQS signal to the body of user 102. This enables human body communication (HBC) for transmitting data packets between wearable device 104 and at least one computing device 106.
[0055] In step 1208, method 1200 includes triggering a feedback module 224 associated with the wearable device 104 to generate a notification in response to successful transmission of a data packet to at least one computing device 106. One or more operations performed by the wearable device 104 have been referenced... Figures 1 to 11 Since this has already been explained, it will not be repeated for the sake of brevity.
[0056] Figure 13 A simplified block diagram representation of an electronic device 1300 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The electronic device 1300 is an example of a computing device 106 and a wearable device 104. The electronic device 1300 includes a computer system 1302. The computer system 1302 includes one or more processors 1304 and at least one memory 1306. The processor 1304 is configured to execute program instructions. For example, the processor 1304 may be a physical processor or a virtual processor. It should be understood that the computer system 1302 does not limit the scope of the purpose or functionality of the described embodiment. The computer system 1302 may include, but is not limited to, one or more of the following: a general-purpose computer, a programmable microprocessor, a microcontroller, an integrated circuit, a digital signal processor (DSP), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), and an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), as well as other devices or device arrangements capable of implementing the steps constituting the method of the present invention.
[0057] Exemplary embodiments of the computer system 1302 according to the present invention may include one or more servers, desktop computers, laptop computers, tablet computers, smartphones, mobile phones, mobile communication devices, tablet computers, phablets, and personal digital assistants. In one embodiment, memory 1306 may store software for implementing various embodiments of the present invention. The computer system 1302 may include additional components or fewer components. For example, the computer system 1302 may include one or more communication channels 1308, one or more input devices 1310, one or more output devices 1312, and storage 1314. Interconnection mechanisms (not shown), such as buses, control circuitry, or networks, interconnect the components of the computer system 1302. In various embodiments, operating system software (not shown) provides a runtime environment for various software executed in the computer system 1302 using processor 1304 and manages the different functions and features of the components of the computer system 1302.
[0058] Communication channel 1308 allows communication with various other computing entities via a communication medium. The communication medium provides information such as program instructions, or other data within the communication medium. The communication medium can be, but is not limited to, wired or wireless methods implemented using electrical, optical, radio frequency, infrared, acoustic, microwave, Bluetooth, network protocols compliant with IEEE 802.15.6, IEEE 802.15.4, IEEE 802.15.3, or other transmission media.
[0059] Input device 1310 may include, but is not limited to, a touchscreen, keyboard, mouse, pen, joystick, trackball, voice device, scanning device, or any other device capable of providing input to computer system 1302. In one embodiment of the invention, input device 1310 may be a sound card or a similar device that receives audio input in analog or digital form. Output device 1312 may include, but is not limited to: a user interface on a CRT, LCD, or LED display, or any other display, printer, speaker, CD / DVD burner, or device providing output to computer system 1302 associated with any one of a server, desktop computer, laptop computer, tablet computer, smartphone, mobile phone, mobile communication device, tablet PC, phablet, and personal digital assistant.
[0060] Storage device 1314 may include, but is not limited to: magnetic disks, magnetic tapes, CD-ROMs, CD-RWs, DVDs, any type of computer memory, magnetic stripes, smart cards, printed barcodes, or any other temporary or non-temporary medium that can be used to store information and is accessible to computer system 1302. In various embodiments, storage 1314 may contain program instructions for implementing any of the described embodiments.
[0061] In one implementation, computer system 1302 is part of a distributed network or a set of available cloud resources.
[0062] In one embodiment, the invention is applicable to any such wearable computing device that includes multiple sensors, but whose processing power resides in a separate computing device located close to the device within a human area network. To further illustrate, a practical advantage of this embodiment is that the wearable device can thus be made lightweight.
[0063] Furthermore, this invention relates to the field of augmented reality smart glasses, specifically focusing on wearable devices (e.g., electronic goggles) utilizing quasi-static human body communication (EQS-HBC). Traditional wireless methods (e.g., radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic radiation) have limitations in terms of security, power consumption, and size when applied to smart glasses. The wearable device of this invention overcomes these challenges by employing the low-power near-field communication technology EQS-HBC. Furthermore, this invention provides various geometric considerations for wearable devices to minimize signal loss. Additionally, this invention provides an optimal design for a wearable device implemented using EQS-HBC communication technology. The proposed EQS-HBC wearable device addresses the shortcomings of existing communication modules, providing a breakthrough in power efficiency, security, and size for augmented reality wearable devices through distributed computing.
[0064] The present invention can be implemented in a variety of ways, including as a system, method, or computer program product (e.g., a computer-readable storage medium or computer network), wherein programming instructions are transmitted from a remote location.
[0065] In some aspects, the present invention can be suitably implemented as a computer program product for use with computer system 1302. The methods described herein are generally implemented as a computer program product comprising a set of program instructions executable by computer system 1302 or any other similar device. This set of program instructions may be a series of computer-readable codes stored on a tangible medium (such as a computer-readable storage medium (i.e., storage 1314), for example, a floppy disk, CD-ROM, ROM, flash drive, or hard disk), or transmitted to computer system 1302 via a modem or other interface device through a tangible medium (including, but not limited to, optical communication or analog communication channel 1308). The invention as a computer program product may also be implemented in an intangible form using wireless technologies (including, but not limited to, microwave, infrared, Bluetooth, or other transmission technologies). These instructions may be pre-loaded into the system, recorded on a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, or available for download via a network such as the Internet or a mobile phone network. The series of computer-readable instructions may contain all or part of the functionality previously described herein.
[0066] Although preferred embodiments of the invention have been described for illustrative purposes, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications, additions, and substitutions can be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention as disclosed in the appended claims. Such modifications are contemplated herein.
[0067] Those skilled in the art will understand that techniques consistent with this disclosure can also be applied to other situations without departing from the scope of this disclosure.
[0068] The descriptions and illustrations herein are examples of this disclosure. The terminology, descriptions, and figures used herein are illustrative only and are not intended to be limiting. Many variations may be made within the spirit and scope of the subject matter, which is intended to be defined by the following claims and their equivalents, wherein, unless otherwise stated, all terms are to be understood in their broadest reasonable sense.
[0069] The written description herein describes the subject matter and enables those skilled in the art to make and use the embodiments. The scope of the subject matter embodiments is defined by the claims and may include other modifications that may occur to those skilled in the art. Such other modifications are intended to fall within the scope of the claims if they have similar elements that are identical to the literal meaning of the claims, or contain equivalent elements that are only slightly different from the literal meaning of the claims.
[0070] The implementations described herein may include hardware and software elements. Software implementations include, but are not limited to, firmware, resident software, microcode, etc. The functions performed by the modules described herein may be implemented in other modules or combinations of modules. For the purposes of this description, a computer-usable or computer-readable medium may be any means that can contain, store, communicate, propagate, or transmit programs for use by or associated with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.
[0071] The description of an implementation having multiple communicating components does not imply that all of these components are necessary. Rather, various optional components are described to illustrate various possible implementations of the invention. When a single device or article of manufacture is described herein, it is apparent that more than one device / article of manufacture (whether or not they cooperate) may be used in place of the single device / article. Similarly, when more than one device or article of manufacture (whether or not they cooperate) is described herein, it is apparent that a single device / article of manufacture may be used in place of the more than one device or article of manufacture, or that a different number of devices / articles may be used in place of the number of devices or programs shown. The functionality and / or characteristics of a device may also be alternatively implemented by one or more other devices not explicitly described as having such functionality / characteristics. Therefore, other embodiments of the invention do not necessarily include the device itself.
[0072] The steps shown are described to explain the exemplary embodiments illustrated, and it should be anticipated that ongoing technological developments will change the way specific functions are performed. These examples are presented herein for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit. Furthermore, for ease of description, the boundaries of functional building blocks are arbitrarily defined herein. Alternative boundaries can be defined as long as the specified functions and their relationships can be properly performed. For those skilled in the art, alternatives (including equivalents, extensions, variations, deviations, etc.) will be apparent from the teachings contained herein. These alternatives are all within the scope and spirit of the disclosed embodiments. Moreover, the words “comprising,” “having,” “containing,” and “including,” and other similar forms are intended to be equivalent in meaning and are open-ended, meaning that one or more items following any of these words are not intended to exhaustively list the item or items, nor are they intended to be limited to the listed one or more items. It must also be noted that, unless the context clearly specifies otherwise, the singular forms “a” and “the” as used herein and in the appended claims include plural references.
[0073] Finally, the language used in this specification has been chosen primarily for readability and guidance purposes and is not intended to define or limit the subject matter of the invention. Therefore, the scope of the invention is not intended to be limited by this detailed description, but rather by any claims arising from an application based on this specification. Accordingly, embodiments of the invention are intended to illustrate, rather than limit, the scope of the invention, which is outlined in the following claims.
Claims
1. A wearable device, comprising: Multiple sensors configured to generate perceived data for transmission to at least one computing device associated with a user; A first set of conductors is mounted on at least a portion of a first support frame of the wearable device, wherein, during operation of the wearable device, the first set of conductors comes into contact with a portion of the user's body; A second set of conductors, mounted on at least a portion of a second support frame of the wearable device, wherein, during operation of the wearable device, the second set of conductors is positioned close to the user's body; and A processor communicatively coupled to multiple sensors, a first set of conductors, and a second set of conductors, said processor being configured to at least: A data packet is generated for transmission to at least one computing device of the user, wherein the data packet is generated based at least on processing of sensed data captured by the plurality of sensors. An excitation voltage is applied between the first set of conductors and the second set of conductors to at least enable data packets to be transmitted from the wearable device to at least one computing device via a quasi-static (EQS) signal within a predetermined frequency range. In this configuration, once an excitation voltage is applied, the first set of conductors generates a quasi-static (EQS) signal, and the second set of conductors applies the EQS signal to the user's body for transmitting data packets from the wearable device to at least one computing device via Human Body Communication (HBC). Trigger a feedback module associated with the wearable device to generate a notification in response to a data packet being successfully transmitted to at least one computing device.
2. The wearable device according to claim 1, wherein, The first set of conductors is configured with an elongated profile, having a predetermined width range relative to the size of the wearable device, in order to at least maintain maximum signal coupling for data transmission and to achieve variable size specifications.
3. The wearable device according to claim 1, wherein, The first set of conductors is mounted on the inner surface of at least a portion of the first support frame and is in contact with at least the user's head structure during operation of the wearable device.
4. The wearable device according to claim 3, wherein, A first set of conductors mounted on the inner surface enables at least one first position vector associated with the first set of conductors to be oriented toward the user's body, and wherein the at least one first position vector associated with the first set of conductors enables human body communication (HBC) by applying an electrical quasi-static (EQS) signal to the user's body.
5. The wearable device according to claim 1, wherein, The first set of conductors is mounted on one or more components of the wearable device and is located close to the user's body position, wherein the first set of conductors in the wearable device located close to the user's body position causes the wearable device to operate in a suboptimal mode via an electrical quasi-static (EQS) signal.
6. The wearable device according to claim 1, wherein, The second set of conductors is mounted on at least a portion of a set of support structures of the connecting member, the mounting member, and the second support frame, wherein the second set of conductors mounted on at least a portion of a set of support structures of the connecting member, the mounting member, and the second support frame are positioned close to the user's body at a predetermined distance so as to transmit an electrical quasi-static (EQS) signal on and around the user's body.
7. The wearable device according to claim 1, wherein, The second set of conductors mounted on the second support frame causes at least one second position vector associated with the second set of conductors to be away from the user's body orientation, for enabling the wearable device to operate in a suboptimal mode.
8. The wearable device according to claim 1, wherein, A second set of conductors, mounted on at least a portion of the second support frame, operates in a mode of contact with the user's body during operation of the wearable device, and wherein the second set of conductors operating in the mode of contact with the user's body triggers current-based quasi-static (EQS) signal communication.
9. The wearable device according to claim 1, wherein, The predetermined frequency range is approximately 0.1 MHz to 100 MHz.
10. A method comprising: Perceived data is generated through multiple sensors for transmission between the wearable device and at least one computing device associated with the user. A data packet is generated by a processor for transmission to at least one computing device of the user, wherein the data packet is generated based at least on the processing of perceived data captured by multiple sensors; By applying an excitation voltage between the first and second sets of conductors by the processor, data packets are transmitted from a wearable device to at least one computing device via an electrically quasi-static (EQS) signal within a predetermined frequency range. In this configuration, once an excitation voltage is applied, the first set of conductors generates an EQS (Electrically Quasi-Static) signal, and the second set of conductors applies the EQS signal to the user's body to transmit data packets from the wearable device to at least one computing device via Human Body Communication (HBC); and The processor triggers a feedback module associated with the wearable device to generate a notification in response to the successful transmission of a data packet to at least one computing device.
11. The method according to claim 10, wherein, The first set of conductors is configured with an elongated profile, having a predetermined width range relative to the size of the wearable device, in order to at least maintain maximum signal coupling for data transmission and to achieve variable size specifications.
12. The method according to claim 10, wherein, The first set of conductors is mounted on the inner surface of at least a portion of the first support frame and is in contact with at least the user's head structure during operation of the wearable device.
13. The method according to claim 12, wherein, A first set of conductors mounted on the inner surface causes at least one first position vector associated with the first set of conductors to be oriented toward the user's body, and wherein the at least one first position vector associated with the first set of conductors enables human body communication (HBC) by applying an electrical quasi-static (EQS) signal to the user's body.
14. The method of claim 10, wherein, The first set of conductors is mounted on one or more components of the wearable device and positioned close to the user's body, wherein the first set of conductors in the wearable device positioned close to the user's body enables the wearable device to operate in a suboptimal mode via an electrical quasi-static (EQS) signal.
15. The method according to claim 10, wherein, The second set of conductors is mounted on at least a portion of a set of support structures of the connecting member, the mounting member, and the second support frame, wherein the second set of conductors mounted on at least a portion of a set of support structures of the connecting member, the mounting member, and the second support frame are positioned close to the user's body at a predetermined distance so as to transmit an electrical quasi-static (EQS) signal on and around the user's body.
16. The method of claim 10, wherein, The second set of conductors mounted on the second support frame enables at least one second position vector associated with the second set of conductors to be oriented away from the user's body, thereby allowing the wearable device to operate in a suboptimal mode.
17. The method of claim 10, wherein, The second set of conductors, mounted on at least a portion of the second support frame, operates in a mode of contact with the user's body during wearable device operation, and wherein the second set of conductors operating in the mode of contact with the user's body triggers current-based quasi-static (EQS) signal communication.
18. The method according to claim 10, wherein, The predefined frequency range is approximately 0.1 MHz to 100 MHz.
19. A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising processor-executable instructions that cause a processor to: Generate a data packet for transmission to at least one computing device of the user, wherein the data packet is generated based at least on preprocessing of sensing data captured by the plurality of sensors; An excitation voltage is applied between the first set of conductors and the second set of conductors to at least enable data packets to be transmitted from the wearable device to at least one computing device via a quasi-static (EQS) signal within a predetermined frequency range. in, Once an excitation voltage is applied, the first set of conductors generates an electrical quasi-static (EQS) signal, and the second set of conductors applies the EQS signal to the user's body to transmit data packets from the wearable device to at least one computing device via human body communication (HBC). and Trigger a feedback device associated with the wearable device to generate a notification in response to a data packet being successfully transmitted to at least one computing device.
20. The non-transitory computer-readable medium according to claim 19, wherein, The predefined frequency range is approximately 0.1 MHz to 100 MHz.