Finger-Mounted Data Capture Device with Dual Mode Triggering
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Finger-mounted data capture devices, such as ring scanners, can impede certain activities due to their design, particularly in top-mounted operational modes where the primary housing may obstruct reaching into narrow spaces or operating certain vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A data capture device with a primary housing and a mounting accessory that allows for dual operational modes: top-mounted and side-mounted, featuring distinct triggers for activation by the thumb, enabling easier access and reduced height for improved reach and comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the data capture device is mounted on top of the finger (top-mounted mode), then the device is stable and easy to operate, but the device height obstructs reaching into narrow spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The device allows dynamic switching between two mounting configurations: top-mounted mode for stable operation and side-mounted mode for reduced height. The mounting accessory can be repositioned or removed to change the operational mode, enabling the device to adapt its physical configuration based on the task requirements.
2Length of stationary object
If the data capture device is mounted on the side of the finger (side-mounted mode), then the device height is reduced for better reach, but the trigger accessibility becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates two separate triggers: a primary trigger on the housing and an accessory trigger on the mounting accessory. This segmentation allows the operator to access the appropriate trigger based on the mounting mode, ensuring ease of operation regardless of the device's physical configuration.
3Device complexity
If a single mounting mode is used, then the device structure is simple, but the device cannot adapt to different operational requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed with multi-functionality, supporting both top-mounted and side-mounted operational modes through a configurable mounting accessory. This universal design allows the same device to adapt to different operational requirements without requiring multiple specialized devices, achieving versatility while maintaining relatively simple structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A data capture device includes: a primary housing supporting a data capture assembly and having inner and outer surfaces joined by a perimeter wall; and a mounting accessory coupled to the inner surface. The mounting accessory mounts the device on an operator index finger in either of: a side-mounted mode in which the primary housing is between the index finger and a thumb; and a top-mounted mode, in which the primary housing is on a back of the index finger. The device includes an accessory trigger on the mounting accessory and a primary trigger supported on the outer surface. In the top-mounted mode, the accessory trigger is between the index finger and the thumb, for activation by the thumb. In the side-mounted mode, the primary trigger is disposed on the side of the index finger for activation by the thumb of the operator.