Extendable Support Arm for Wearable Device Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Head-mounted devices, such as computer glasses, face challenges in accommodating varied user anatomies and environments due to the need for precise fit and securement of sensitive electronic components, particularly speakers and cameras, which are not adequately addressed by traditional adjustability mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating extendable support arms with inertial measurement units (IMUs) and actuators that dynamically adjust the position of arm tips and electronic components based on user motion and orientation, allowing for customizable fit and optimal performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fixed support arms are used, then the device structure is simple, but the device cannot accommodate varied user anatomies and environments
Solution Approach 1:
The support arm incorporates an extendable portion with an actuator that can dynamically adjust its length between retracted and extended states, allowing the device to adapt to different user anatomies and environments while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure when not in use
2Adaptability or versatility
If the support arm is extended to reach farther, then the fit is better for diverse users, but the distance between support arms increases reducing stability
Solution Approach 1:
The extendable portion can dynamically transition between extended and retracted states based on real-time IMU data, allowing the support arm to extend only when needed for diverse user fits while retracting to maintain stability and minimize distance between support arms during normal use
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustment mechanisms are used, then the device can be customized, but the operation becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses IMU sensors to automatically detect user motion and orientation, triggering the actuator to extend or retract the support arm without requiring manual user input, thereby providing customizable fit while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The IMU sensor provides continuous feedback on user motion and device orientation, enabling the control circuit to automatically adjust the support arm position in real-time, eliminating the need for manual adjustment and providing adaptive customization
4Strength
If the support arm is made rigid for stability, then the structure is strong, but the ability to dynamically adjust position is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The support arm uses a telescopic design with an extendable portion that can dynamically adjust its length while maintaining structural strength through the sleeve and actuator mechanism, allowing the arm to be rigid when extended for stability but flexible when retracted for adjustment
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution ensures a secure and optimal placement of electronic components, enhancing the performance and usability of head-mounted devices across diverse user anatomies and environments by automatically adjusting to user-specific conditions.
Implementation Method 1
an inertial measurement unit (IMU) attached to the wearable electronic device, and an actuator connected to the extendable portion. The actuator can transition the extendable portion from the retracted state to the extended state in response to a signal received by the actuator from the IMU.
Implementation Method 2
The support arm can further define a pressurized chamber adjacent to the extendible portion, wherein the pressurized chamber exerts a force on the extendable portion in response to a detected motion.
Data Source
AI summary
A wearable electronic device including a display and a support arm attached to the display. The support arm can define a sleeve and can include an extendable portion movable within the sleeve. The support arm having a retracted state and an extended state.