Gesture control of variable brightness light source

Abstract

A system for gesture-controlled brightness for a light source includes a light source, a power supply, the power supply being in communication with the light source, a controller, the controller being in communication with the power supply and the light source, wherein the controller is configured to project an optical signal, wherein the optical signal is modifiable by a target object within the field of view of the optical signal. A method for adjusting brightness of a light source, including measuring a first distance between a sensor and a target object within a field of view of the sensor, comparing the first distance of the target object to a threshold distance value, and outputting to a corresponding brightness adjustment to a light source.

Description

Docket No. 6493.001WO GESTURE CONTROL OF VARIABLE BRIGHTNESS LIGHT SOURCECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. provisional application no. 63 / 720,479, filed on November 14, 2024, entitled “Gesture Control for LED Power Supply with On / Off and Intensity Functions”, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to devices for controlling the brightness output of a light source. More specifically, but not exclusively, the present disclosure concerns a touch-free, gesture-based control system for a variable brightness headlamp or headset for use in medical or dental applications.BACKGROUND

[0003] Loupes are small magnification devices designed to be held or worn close to the eye. Loupes can be utilized across a variety of applications and specialized settings, often employed in medical and dental settings. Dental loupes, for example, are specialized magnifying glasses worn by dentists to enhance their view of the oral cavity during procedures. They provide improved precision, ergonomics, and reduced eye strain, leading to better patient care and potentially shorter procedure times.

[0004] Dentists, hygienists, and dental therapists typically use binocular loupe glasses since they need both hands free when performing dental procedures. The magnification helps with accurate diagnoses of oral conditions and enhances surgical precision when completing treatment. Additionally, loupes can improve dentists' posture which can decrease occupational strain. Some dental loupes are flip-type, which take the form of two small cylinders, one in front of each lens of the glasses. Other types are inset within the lens of the glasses.

[0005] Because loupes magnify a small field of vision, the amount of light that is focused into through the loupe is less than what is seen by just the naked eye. The dimness experienced is negligible for a nonprofessional user, but for professionals who require accuracy and precision and work in a confined area like dentistry, a loupe light provides illumination that will dramatically increase the level of detail they can see through loupes. Dental loupes are often used in conjunction with a light source in order to better visualize teeth and the oral cavity.Docket No. 6493.001WO SUMMARY

[0006] Shortcomings of the prior art are overcome through the provision of a system for gesture-controlled brightness for a light source. The system includes a light source, a power supply, the power supply being in communication with the light source, and a controller, the controller being in communication with the power supply and the light source, wherein the controller is configured to project an optical signal, wherein the optical signal is modifiable by a target object within the field of view of the optical signal.

[0007] In another aspect, a method for controlling the brightness of a light source is provided. A method includes measuring a first distance between a sensor and a target object within a field of view of the sensor, comparing the first distance of the target object to a threshold distance value, and outputting to a corresponding brightness adjustment to a light source.

[0008] The present summary is not intended to illustrate each aspect of, every implementation of, and / or every embodiment of the present disclosure. Additional features and advantages are realized through the concepts described herein.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0009] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and together with the detailed description herein, serve to explain the principles of the aspects described herein. The drawings are only for purposes of illustrating preferred embodiments and are not to be construed as limiting the disclosure. It is emphasized that, in accordance with the standard practice in the industry, various features are not drawn to scale. In fact, the dimensions of the various features may be arbitrarily increased or reduced for clarity of discussion. The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of the invention are apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

[0010] FIG. 1 is a front right perspective view from above of an example controller, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0011] FIG. 2 is a rear left perspective view from below of the example controller of FIG. 1;

[0012] FIG. 3 is a front left perspective view from above of the example controller of FIG.Docket No. 6493.001WO

[0013] FIG. 4 is a front side elevational view of the example controller of FIG. 1;

[0014] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the example controller of FIG. 1;

[0015] FIG. 6 is yet another cross-sectional view of the example controller of FIG. 1;

[0016] FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the example controller of FIG. 1;

[0017] FIG. 8 is an example system including the controller of FIG. 1;

[0018] FIG. 9 is further perspective view of the example system of FIG. 8;

[0019] FIG. 10 is a further example system, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0020] FIG. 11 is yet another example system, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0021] FIG. 12 shows the example system of FIG. 11, worn by a user; and

[0022] FIG. 13 shows an example workflow for controlling the brightness of light source in response to gestures by a user, in accordance with aspects described herein.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] There is a common problem with devices that need control in situations that do not allow physical interaction between the user and the device. This is particularly true in examples of medical or dental applications, where hands-free interaction is desirable. The present disclosure and aspects described herein remedy this situation by providing touchless operation. Once equipped, the device can be operated completely by the user with simple hand gestures.

[0024] Generally stated, disclosed herein is systems, methods, and devices including a gesture-controlled variable brightness light source.

[0025] Aspects described herein may include a system for controlling a variable brightness light source. In examples, the system may include a power supply, a controller (i.e., the device), and a headlamp. In accordance with aspects described herein, the power supply may receive a signal from the device (i.e., the controller) and generate a suitable drive signal (i.e., corresponding to a brightness adjustment) for a light source, for example, a headlamp. The controller may interpret the user's input and provide a controlling signal to the power supply.Docket No. 6493.001WO The headlamp can act as a light source for the user at an intensity commensurate with the power of the drive signal.

[0026] In examples, the device according to aspects described herein projects an optical signal, for example, invisible, vision-safe laser beam. A user's hand may interrupt the laser beam and the user will gesture to and from the device to issue task specific commands to the device. The device uses its ability to measure the distance to the user's hand in space to interpret the gestures.

[0027] In embodiments, the device may be mounted to the temple of a user's glasses frame to allow the user to control the intensity and / brightness of a headlamp or appropriate light source.

[0028] The controller is an electronic device that is connected in the power path between an LED power source and an LED lamp. It will, when commanded by gestures, vary the power to or disable an LED lamp. Gestures will be recognized optically through an enclosure aperture.

[0029] In examples, and as best shown in FIG. 13, two control modes are supported. A command mode allows a user to enable or disable the LED lamp or to switch to the power mode. The power mode will allow the user to vary the power to the already enabled LED lamp. To enter the command mode, the user will place their hand in the field-of-view of the optics for a certain amount of time. From this state the user can either remove their hand from the field-of-view or vary the distance to and from the sensor. If the user removes their hand from the optics, the power to the LED lamp will toggle on or off. If the user varies the distance between their hand and the sensor, the controller will vary the power to the LED lamp thus varying the intensity of the light.

[0030] In examples, the power supply may be a neck- wearable power supply for LED light sources. The power supply may be configured with an ergonomic design with a reversible design for either left or right-handed users. LEDs are current drivers and are powered, for example, via analog mono Jacks. The power to and from the power supply can be through a common power port. In examples, control of the power supply may be through a single capacitive touch button that can be controlled while wearing gloves. The power supply may sustain 100% brightness at 8 hours.

[0031] It is appreciated that aspects described herein may be embodied in a two-cell or three-cell design.Docket No. 6493.001WO

[0032] Referring to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals correspond to analogous components across several views, and with particular reference to FIGS. 1-4, an example controller 100 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, is shown. Example controller 100 may extend from a first end 102 to a second end 104. Enclosure apertures 142a, 142b may be provided in housing 140 and be configured to receive corresponding optical sensor(s) 120a, 120b. A connection port 180 may be provided at the second end 104 of example controller 100, to enable connection to, for example, a power supply or a light source. In examples, the power supply is encased within the housing 140 example controller 100. Example controller 100 may be lightweight and capable of being mounted on a user’s glasses or headset, in order to control brightness of a light source, in accordance with aspects described herein. Mounting may occur by affixing, connecting, or otherwise coupling example controller 100 to a user’s glasses via attachment member(s) 130. A connection port 110 may be provided at the second end 102 of example controller 100, to enable connection to, for example, a light source or an external power supply. Attachment member(s) 130 may be disposed on a housing backing 150 of example controller 100. Enclosure apertures 142a, 142b may be configured to project, for example, a vision-safe laser beam. Example controller 100 may be in communication (e.g., wired communication) with a light source and / or a power supply. In examples, a power supply, such as a battery, is housed within the example controller 100.

[0033] FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the example controller 100, as shown and described with respect to FIGS. 1-4. Example controller 100 may include a printed circuit board 202, configured to be in communication with an optical sensor 120a, in order to project a laser beam or other optical signal. In examples, the optical sensor(s) 120a, 120b is communication with the printed circuit board 202 such that the optical sensor(s) 120a, 120b can communicate information regarding the positioning (i.e., distance) of a target relative to the optical sensor(s)120a, 120b. In examples, the target is a user’s hand, which interrupts the optical signal.

[0034] FIG. 6 is yet another cross-sectional view of the example controller 100, as shown and described with respect to FIGS. 1-5. A laser drive circuit board 202 is shown and can be disposed within housing 140 and housing backing 150 of example controller 100. Connection port 180 may be in fluid communication with the interior cavity of the example controller 100. Connection port 110 may similarly be in fluid communication with the interior cavity of the example controller 100. Printed circuit board 202 may be capable of generating one or more laser beams, or other optical signals, through enclosure apertures 142a, 142b.Docket No. 6493.001WO

[0035] FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the example controller 100, as shown and described with respect to FIGS. 1-6. The example controller 100 may further comprise a power supply 220. The power supply 220 may be a battery assembly, the battery assembly being capable of being housed inside the example controller 100. The battery may, in examples, be encased in its own internal housing member 240. The power supply 220 may be capable of supplying power to a light source. A battery connection member 260 may allow power to be supplied to an input exterior to the example controller 100.

[0036] FIG. 8 is an example system / apparatus 500 for performing gesture-based control of a variable brightness light source, and includes the example controller 100, as shown and described with respect to FIG. 1-7. The example controller 100 may be attached to the temporal portion of a glasses assembly 300, such that a second end 104 is positioned proximal to a light source 404 disposed on the front surface of the glasses assembly 300. Glasses assembly 300 may comprise one or more loupes 310, provided on each lens of the glasses assembly 300.

[0037] FIG. 9 is further perspective view of the example system / device 500 as illustrated and described with reference to FIG. 8. An example system / device 500 for performing gesturebased control of a variable brightness light source is illustrated, and includes the example controller 100, as shown and described with respect to FIG. 1-7. The example controller 100 may be attached to the temporal portion of a glasses assembly 300, such that a first end 102 is positioned distance to a light source 404 disposed on the front surface of the glasses assembly 300. Glasses assembly 300 may comprise one or more loupes 310, provided on each lens of the glasses assembly 300.

[0038] FIG. 10 is a further example system / apparatus, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. Example system / apparatus 1000 for performing gesture-based control of a variable brightness light source is illustrated, and includes a glasses assembly 1030, a controller device 1010, and a power source 1004. The power source 1004 is external to the controller 1010. The controller 1010 is in wired communication with the power source 1004 and the light source 1040. The controller may include an optical sensor with a field of view oriented away from the glasses assembly. The light source 1040 may have variable brightness values or be capable of emitting varying degrees of brightness.

[0039] FIG. 11 is yet another example system / apparatus, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The power supply may be housed in a wearable neck pack 1104.Docket No. 6493.001WO

[0040] FIG. 13 shows an example workflow for controlling the brightness of light source in response to gestures by a user, in accordance with aspects described herein. The workflow may be executed by controllers or devices, such as example controller 100, and / or systems in accordance with aspects described herein. As shown in FIG. 13, two control modes may be supported. The example controller 100 may implement the workflow of FIG. 13. The workflow commences in idle, in which the system will monitor via the disruption of an optical signal if a target is in range (i.e., in the field of view of the optical signal). If the target is not in range and / or in the field of view of the optical signal, the system will continue to idle. If the target is in range, a debounce timer will commence. If the target is in range for an amount of time under a threshold amount of time set by the debounce timer, the debounce timer will not enter command mode and correspondingly reset after a sub-threshold period of inactivity. Debouncing is a technique to control how often a function is executed by ensuring it only runs after a specific period of inactivity has passed since the last time it was triggered. Thus, if the target is in range for an amount of time exceeding a threshold amount of time set by the debounce timer, the system will proceed to command mode. The system will subsequently monitor the distance between the target object and the source of the optical signal. If the distance between the optical signal source and the target object is greater than a threshold limit, the power off the connected light source (i.e., LED lamp) will be toggled, either on or off.

[0041] Alternatively, if the distance between the target object in the field of view of the optical signal source and the optical signal source is below a threshold value (i.e., limit), the system will switch to a power mode. The power mode will allow the user to vary the power to the already enabled (i.e., powered on) light source. The amount of power supplied to the light source, and the corresponding brightness of the light source, may be varied based on the distance between the optical signal sensor / sensor and the target object. In some embodiments, the brightness is inversely proportional to the distance between the target object and optical signal source / sensor. In some embodiments, the brightness is directly proportional to the distance between the target object and the optical signal source / sensor. In some embodiments, the brightness may be increased in incrementally. The controller is configured to alter the intensity of the light source commensurate with the power of the drive signal.

[0042] FIG. 12 shows the example system of FIG. 11, worn by a user. The gesture control feature of the present disclosure is illustrated in FIG. 12, in accordance with the workflow described with respect to FIG. 13. A user 1111 may use their hand to interact with and / or modify an optical signal, such that the hand of user 1111 may be detected by the optical signal source / sensor.Docket No. 6493.001WO

[0043] To enter the command mode, the user will place their hand in the field-of-view of the optics for a certain amount of time, as illustrated in FIG. 12. From this state the user can either remove their hand from the field-of-view or vary the distance to and from the sensor. If the user removes their hand from the optics, the power to the LED lamp will toggle on or off. If the user varies the distance between their hand and the sensor, the controller will vary the power to the LED lamp thus varying the intensity of the light.

[0044] Optical signal sources as described herein may include laser sensors, or in examples, laser distance sensors. Laser distance sensors measure distances and allow it to take measurements at great distances. These distance sensors work on the basis of the Time-Of-Flight (ToF) principle, which means that the sensor emits a laser beam and receives the reflection from it. The time that elapses between sending and receiving the laser light ensures that the laser distance sensor can internally determine the distance. The distance over which the measurements can be taken differs per series.

[0045] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprise” (and any form of comprise, such as “comprises” and “comprising”), “have” (and any form of have, such as “has”, and “having”), “include” (and any form of include, such as “includes” and “including”), and “contain” (and any form of contain, such as “contains” and “containing”) are open-ended linking verbs. As a result, a method or device that “comprises,” “has,” “includes,” or “contains” one or more steps or elements possesses those one or more steps or elements, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more steps or elements. Likewise, a step of a method or an element of a device that “comprises,” “has,” “includes,” or “contains” one or more features possesses those one or more features, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more features. Furthermore, a device or structure that is configured in a certain way is configured in at least that way, but may also be configured in ways that are not listed.

[0046] Aspects of the present disclosure has been described with reference to the preferred embodiments. It will be understood that the architectural and operational embodiments described herein are exemplary of a plurality of possible arrangements to provide the same general features, characteristics, and general system operation. Modifications and alterations will occur to others upon a reading and understanding of the preceding detailed description. It isDocket No. 6493.001 WO intended that the present disclosure be construed as including all such modifications and alterations.

Claims

1. Docket No. 6493.001WO CLAIMS2.What is claimed:

1. A system for gesture-controlled brightness for a light source, comprising:4.a light source,5.a power supply, the power supply being in communication with the light source; and6.a controller, the controller being in communication with the power supply and the light source,7.wherein the controller is configured to project an optical signal, wherein the optical signal is modifiable by a target object within the field of view of the optical signal.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein a modification of the optical signal for a threshold duration of time corresponds to powering the light source on or off.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein the controller comprises a sensor configured to monitor the position of a target object in the field of view of the optical signal.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein the light source is configured to have at least two brightness values.

5. The system according to claim 1, wherein the light source is configured to have at least two brightness values, wherein the controller comprises a sensor configured to monitor the position of a target object in the field of view of the optical signal, wherein a first distance is defined by the distance between the sensor and a target object, wherein a first distance corresponds to a first brightness of the light source.

6. The system according to claim 1, wherein the light source is configured to have at least two brightness values, wherein the controller comprises a sensor configured to monitor the position of a target object in the field of view of the optical signal, wherein a first distance is defined by the distance between the sensor and a target object in a first position, wherein a first distance corresponds to a first brightness of the light source, wherein a second distance is defined by the distance between the sensor and a target object in a second position, wherein aDocket No. 6493.001WO second distance corresponds to a second brightness of the light source, wherein the first distance and the second distance are different, and wherein the first brightness and the second brightness are different.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein the power supply and the controller are enclosed together in a housing.

8. The system according to claim 1, wherein the power supply and the controller are enclosed together in a housing, wherein the housing is mounted to a glasses assembly.

9. The system according to claim 1, wherein the power supply and the controller are enclosed together in a housing, wherein the housing is mounted to a glasses assembly, wherein the light source is affixed to a front surface of the glasses assembly.

10. A method for adjusting brightness of a light source, comprising:17.measuring a first distance between a sensor and a target object within a field of view of the sensor,18.comparing the first distance of the target object to a threshold distance value, and outputting to a corresponding brightness adjustment to a light source.

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