Finger-Worn Selfie Camera with Extendable Lens for Wearables
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wearable electronic devices with cameras, such as those approximating an eyeglasses form factor, do not allow users to take selfies while wearing them, as the user is typically excluded from photographs unless capturing their reflection from a surface.
Innovation Solution
A wearable electronic device configured to be worn on a finger, featuring an input device and an autofocus camera that can be easily aimed towards the user's face for capturing selfies, with the ability to transmit images wirelessly to an external device, allowing users to take and share photos without obstructing their view.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a wearable electronic device with a camera is designed in an eyeglasses form factor, then the device can be worn comfortably on the user's head, but the user cannot take selfies while wearing the device as the user is excluded from photographs
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into distinct functional components: the wearable body portion that can be worn on the head, and the extendable portion with the camera that can be positioned independently. This segmentation allows the camera to be positioned optimally for selfie capture while the main body remains comfortable to wear.
Solution Approach 2:
The device transitions from a two-dimensional eyeglasses form factor to a three-dimensional structure with an extendable portion that can reach toward the user's face. This dimensional change enables the camera to capture selfies by extending into the user's personal space without requiring the entire device to be worn on the head.
2Ease of operation
If the camera is positioned to face the user for selfie capture, then selfies can be taken, but the device becomes more complex and harder to wear
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates a movable or adjustable extendable portion that can dynamically change its position and orientation. This dynamic capability allows the camera to be positioned for selfie capture only when needed, while returning to a more compact configuration for comfortable wearing, thus reducing perceived complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera system is extracted from the main wearable body and placed on a separate extendable portion. This extraction allows the camera to be positioned independently for optimal selfie capture while keeping the main body simple and comfortable to wear, effectively separating the selfie function from the wearing structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the wearable device includes a camera system, then images can be captured, but the device requires additional components increasing its complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system on the extendable portion serves multiple functions: it can capture selfies when extended toward the user, and it can capture environmental photos when positioned outward. This multi-functionality justifies the additional component while providing versatile imaging capabilities that enhance the device's adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
Wearable electronic devices having a selfie camera are described herein. The wearable electronic devices include a body defining an aperture that is sized and shaped to receive a finger of a user. The wearable electronic device also includes a processor housed in the body, an input device arranged on an outer surface of the body and communicatively coupled to the processor to receive an input from a second finger of the user, an optical sensor to capture an image in response to the input from the second finger of the user, a transmitter communicatively coupled to the processor to transmit the image to an external electronic device, and optionally a power source communicatively coupled to the processor and the transmitter to provide power to at least the processor and the transmitter.