Eyewear Docking Interface for Swappable Multi-Function Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current commercial eyewear with integrated electronics can only support a single application at a time, which limits their functionality and aesthetics, as adding multiple applications increases weight and thickness, compromising the cosmetic design.
Innovation Solution
The development of electronic eyewear modules with a docking station that allows for the easy attachment and interchanging of multiple application modules, each with its own set of functions, using standardized connection points for power, audio, video, and data, ensuring compatibility and ease of use while maintaining the eyewear's fashionable design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple application devices are built into eyeglasses, then functionality is improved, but weight and thickness increase compromising aesthetics
Solution Approach 1:
The application device is divided into a base unit attached to the eyeglasses and a separate removable module containing the electronic components. This segmentation allows the heavy electronic parts to be detached when not needed, reducing the weight carried during normal wear while maintaining full functionality when the module is attached.
Solution Approach 2:
The removable application module is designed to nest within or attach to the eyeglass frame structure. When not in use, the module can be stored in a compact form factor that minimizes its impact on the eyeglass aesthetics, similar to how nested dolls store smaller objects within larger ones.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple application devices are built into eyeglasses, then functionality is improved, but cosmetic design is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the application device into a base unit and a removable module, the permanent structure of the eyeglasses remains simple and aesthetically pleasing. The module can be designed to attach in a way that is minimally visible or can be customized to match different fashion preferences, allowing users to prioritize cosmetics when the module is detached.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment mechanism allows the application module to be dynamically added or removed based on situational needs. This dynamic capability enables the eyeglasses to transition between a pure fashion accessory state and a functional device state, giving users control over the cosmetic appearance versus functionality trade-off.
3Ease of operation
If a single application device is attached to eyewear, then functionality is provided, but adaptability to multiple applications is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The base unit attached to the eyeglasses is designed with a universal interface that can accommodate multiple different types of application modules. This universal mounting mechanism allows a single eyeglass frame to support various functions such as cameras, displays, hearing aids, or other electronic applications by simply changing the attached module.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables dynamic reconfiguration of functionality by allowing users to attach different modules to the same base unit depending on their current needs. This dynamic adaptability means the eyeglasses can be quickly transformed from one application to another without requiring multiple separate devices or complex reconfiguration procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
An eyewear system including an eyewear frame and an application module. The eyewear frame including a docking station, and an electronic connector including a first set of preconfigured application connection points. The application module adapted to be mounted to the docking station, and including an electronic device configured to perform a function, and a second set of preconfigured application connection points corresponding to at least some of the first set of preconfigured application connection points. The second set of preconfigured application connection points including at least two different sub-function connections used to support the function of the electronic device.