Eyewear Tether Routing for Bridge-Free Power and Data Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional eyewear with integrated electronics faces mechanical constraints in power and data transmission between the left and right sides, limiting design and manufacturing options due to the need for these connections to pass through the bridge area.
Innovation Solution
A tether capable of power and data transmission is used to connect the temples of the eyewear, allowing for connections between the left and right sides without going through the bridge, enabling aesthetic and manufacturing flexibility by using flexible PCBs or ribbon cables with protective sheaths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If power and data connections pass through the bridge area of the frame, then mechanical structure is simplified, but design and manufacturing options are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the connection path into two separate segments: one through the bridge area and another through the temple arms. This segmentation allows the tether to route around the head rather than forcing all connections through the bridge, thereby freeing design constraints while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional planar connection (through the bridge) to a three-dimensional spatial routing (around the head via temples and tether). This dimensional change enables aesthetic and manufacturing flexibility without complicating the mechanical structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a tether is used to connect temples for power and data transmission, then aesthetic and manufacturing flexibility is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into the tether: it serves as both a structural connector and a conduit for power and data transmission. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby managing complexity while enhancing design flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The tether acts as an intermediary element between the temples, providing a flexible medium that carries electrical connections without requiring rigid structural modifications. This mediator approach simplifies the overall connection structure while enabling aesthetic versatility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the tether routes around the head instead of through the bridge, then design constraints are freed, but connection reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates strain relief features and protective routing in the tether design to preemptively cushion against mechanical stress and damage. This prior cushioning ensures connection reliability is maintained despite the longer, more flexible routing path around the head.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses flexible protective sheathing and thin-film construction in the tether to maintain durability and connection stability while allowing the necessary flexibility for routing around the head. This flexible protection preserves reliability without constraining design freedom.
Data Source
AI summary
Eyewear devices including a tether and methods for identifying proper installation of the tether are disclosed. An eyewear device includes transmission lines extending through the temples to electrical and electronic components positioned adjacent to edges of a frame. A tether is attached to the temples to enable power and communication flow between the electrical and electronic components rather than through the frame. Proper installation is identified based on communications passing between the electrical and electronic components via the tether.