External User Interface for Head-Worn Computing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wearable computing systems face challenges in providing effective user interfaces that are intuitive and efficient for interacting with head-worn computers, particularly in terms of distance control, force interpretation, and mode selection.
Innovation Solution
The development of external user interfaces, such as the pen 200, which incorporates cameras, IMUs, pressure sensors, and communication modules to interpret gestures, pressure, and contextual information, allowing for bi-directional communication with head-worn computers to control local or remote devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional user interfaces are used with head-worn computers, then the device structure remains simple, but the ease of operation and intuitiveness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
An external user interface device serves as an intermediary between the user and the head-worn computer. This external device contains the processing unit, memory, and communication interface, allowing the head-worn computer to remain simple while providing sophisticated interface capabilities through wireless communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The user interface system is segmented into two parts: a simple head-worn computer and a separate external user interface device. The external device handles complex processing, storage, and communication functions, while the head-worn computer focuses on display and basic interaction, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and functionality.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors and processing components are integrated into the user interface, then the measurement precision and context-awareness improve, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The external user interface device acts as an intermediary that houses multiple sensors (cameras, IMUs, pressure sensors) and processing components. This allows high measurement precision and context-awareness to be achieved without increasing the complexity of the head-worn computer itself.
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional mechanical buttons and physical interfaces are replaced with sensor-based detection systems (cameras, IMUs, pressure sensors) that interpret gestures and forces. This substitution enables precise measurement of user intent without requiring complex mechanical structures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If bi-directional communication capabilities are added to control local and remote devices, then the adaptability and functionality improve, but the device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The external user interface device is designed with universal communication capabilities that can control both local and remote devices through a single communication interface. This multi-functionality approach allows one device to handle multiple communication protocols and device types, improving adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity.
4Productivity
If processing power and memory are increased for context-aware functionality, then the productivity and user experience improve, but the use of energy and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Processing power and memory are segmented and placed in the external user interface device rather than the head-worn computer. This allows high processing capability for context-aware functionality while the head-worn device consumes minimal energy, as it only needs to handle basic display and sensor data transmission.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present invention relate to user interface control of a head-worn computer.