Face-Operated Joystick Control System for Head-Mounted Accessibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional joystick control systems require hand or finger operation, limiting accessibility for individuals with limited mobility and not allowing users to freely move their heads while controlling objects.
Innovation Solution
A face-operated joystick control system is integrated into a headset or headgear, allowing users to control objects with head movements, utilizing a joystick that can be positioned for contact with the chin or cheeks, enabling two- or three-dimensional control of remote objects in real-time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional hand-operated joystick is used, then the control system is simple and reliable, but it limits accessibility for individuals with limited hand mobility and prevents users from freely moving their heads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a face-mounted joystick as an intermediary control device that translates facial movements into control signals. This mediator allows users with limited hand mobility to operate the system by moving their head or face, thus resolving the accessibility issue while maintaining a relatively simple control mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional hand-operated mechanical control system with a face-operated system that detects facial movements (either through direct mechanical contact with a face-mounted joystick or through detection of facial muscle movements). This substitution enables users with limited hand mobility to control the system effectively
2Ease of operation
If a hand-operated joystick is used, then the device structure is simple, but users cannot freely move their heads while controlling objects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves the control interface from the hand domain to the head/face domain, utilizing a different spatial dimension for control. By mounting the joystick on the user's head or face, the system enables natural head movements during operation while maintaining control functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a head-mounted structure that balances the joystick weight on the user's head, counteracting the potential burden. This allows users to wear the device comfortably and move their heads freely without the weight interfering with control precision or causing discomfort
3Speed
If the joystick is fixed to the user's body, then head movement is unrestricted, but the joystick position relative to the control object may become unstable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the joystick mounting structure with the user's head or face, creating an integrated control system. This merging ensures that the joystick moves with the user's head while maintaining a stable relative position, as both are part of the same moving reference frame
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms that detect the user's intended control signals through facial movements and translate them into appropriate control commands. This feedback loop ensures that even though the head moves freely, the control signals remain stable and accurate by continuously adapting to the user's movements
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus for controlling an object in real-time is described. In one aspect, an apparatus includes a frame, a bracket, and a stick controller. The frame is configured to be worn on a user's head and to inhibit relative movement between the frame and the user's head. The bracket extends from one or more portions of the frame and is positionable to extend to an area near the user's face with the frame is worn on the user's head. The stick controller is coupled to the bracket and being positionable for contact with user's face when the frame is worn on the user's head.