Eyewear Control Section Hierarchical Input Operations

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

As the number of functions in wearable eyewear increases, the complexity of operations also rises, leading to more difficult and error-prone user interactions due to the need for additional sensors, making it challenging to execute multiple functions simply and efficiently.

Innovation Solution

The eyewear employs a hierarchical function system with a control section that selectively executes functions based on different input operations through an input section, allowing for simpler operation by distinguishing between first and second instruction operations to manage the optical properties of electrically controlled lenses.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the number of functions in wearable eyewear is increased, then the versatility and functionality of the device is improved, but the operational complexity and difficulty of use increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of functionsVSAvoidoperational complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the control system into distinct input sections (first input section and second input section) that are spatially separated and assigned different functions. This segmentation allows multiple functions to be controlled without increasing overall operational complexity, as each input section handles specific operations independently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a universal control architecture where the control section can execute multiple functions based on input from either the first or second input section. This multi-functionality is achieved through a unified control logic that processes different input types, allowing the device to perform various operations without requiring separate control mechanisms for each function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the number of sensors is increased to support more functions, then the functionality of the eyewear is improved, but the device complexity and likelihood of erroneous operation increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidnumber of sensors
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a universal input section design where each input section can handle multiple types of operations (selection operations and execution operations). This universality reduces the need for specialized sensors for each function, as the same physical input sections can serve multiple purposes through different input patterns or contexts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the selection and execution control functions into a unified system where the control section manages both types of operations through a single control logic. By combining these functions and using a hierarchical control structure, the patent reduces the total number of sensors needed while maintaining full functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Measurement precision

If multiple input operations are required to control different functions, then the precision of function selection is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunction selection precisionVSAvoiduser interaction simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the input operations into two distinct types handled by separate input sections: selection operations for choosing functions and execution operations for activating functions. This segmentation allows precise function selection through spatial differentiation, while each individual operation remains simple and intuitive.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent adds a spatial dimension to the control interface by placing different input sections at different locations. This dimensional separation allows the system to distinguish between selection and execution operations based on location rather than requiring complex multi-step sequences, thereby maintaining precision while improving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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

This approach enables the execution of multiple functions with simpler user interactions, reducing operational complexity and minimizing errors by allowing the eyewear to switch between various modes based on user input, thereby enhancing usability and user preference.

Implementation Method 1

an electrically controlled lens 150 including a liquid crystal 1532

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLiquid crystal effect: Liquid Crystals

Implementation Method 2

an electrochromic layer 1528 that surrounds the liquid crystal 1532 in the radial direction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrochromism: Electrochromism

Data Source

PatentEP3588173B1eyewear
Publication Date: 2024.04.10 CARL ZEISS VISION INTERNATIONAL GMBH
  • EP3588173B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3588173B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3588173B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

This eyewear comprises: a frame; an input unit which is disposed in the frame and accepts a first instruction operation and a second instruction operation that are different from each other; an optical module which is held in the frame and has an optical characteristic that changes by electric control; and a control unit which changes the optical characteristic of the optical module by selectively executing an upper-class function by the first instruction operation, and selectively executing a lower-class function by the second instruction operation. Consequently, the eyewear enabling execution of a larger number of functions with a simpler manipulation can be provided.