Finger-Worn Ring Architecture for Comfortable Optical Sensing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wearable electronics are bulky and intrusive, leading to discomfort and reduced usability for extended wear.
Innovation Solution
A wearable computing device in the form of a ring with a flexible printed circuit board and transparent windows for data transmission, battery recharge, and status indication, utilizing concentrated photovoltaic cells and LEDs for power and functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional wearable electronics are used, then functionality is provided, but the device is bulky and intrusive causing discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The wearable device is segmented into multiple functional components: a flexible printed circuit board with sensors, a separate power source, and a minimal housing structure. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, reducing overall device bulk while maintaining functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes a flexible printed circuit board as the structural backbone, replacing rigid circuit boards with thin, flexible alternatives. This enables the device to conform to body contours and significantly reduces device thickness and bulk, directly addressing the comfort issue
2Ease of operation
If device size is reduced for comfort, then wearability improves, but measurement accuracy and functionality may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible circuit board incorporates sensors and electronic components only in specific locations where they are most effective for measurement. This localized placement of functional elements maintains measurement precision while minimizing overall device size and improving wearability
Solution Approach 2:
The device transitions from traditional two-dimensional sensor placement to three-dimensional spatial utilization by wrapping around body parts. This dimensional change allows sensors to be positioned optimally for accurate measurement while keeping the device itself small and comfortable
3Adaptability or versatility
If transparent windows are added for data transmission and charging, then functionality is enhanced, but device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The transparent window serves multiple functions simultaneously: it allows optical data transmission, enables wireless charging through light transmission, and provides status indication. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, actually simplifying the overall device structure while enhancing versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines data transmission, wireless charging, and status indication functions into a single transparent window structure. By merging these functions into one component rather than using separate openings or components, the structural complexity is minimized while maintaining enhanced functionality
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
Enables prolonged and comfortable wear, providing accurate fitness monitoring and gestural input while improving reception quality and power efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The WCD can include a concentrated photovoltaic cell configured to convert concentrated light into electrical energy
Implementation Method 2
a concentrated photovoltaic cell configured to convert concentrated light into electrical energy
Implementation Method 3
at least one LED configured to emit at least one of visible light, infrared radiation, and ultraviolet radiation through the external potting
Data Source
AI summary
A finger-worn wearable ring device may include a ring-shaped housing, a printed circuit board, and a sensor module that includes one or more light-emitting components and one or more light-receiving components. The wearable ring device may further include a communication module configured to wirelessly communicate with an application executable on a user device.