Foldable Digital Input Device for Smartwatch Data Entry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current digital wristwatches face challenges in data input due to limited space for input buttons and display characters, making it inconvenient to enter information such as schedules, and they require manual re-entry of data sets, which is error-prone and consumes significant power, shortening battery life.
Innovation Solution
A foldable digital device with a stylus-like design that includes a body with hinges, allowing it to be folded around a watch band, featuring a pointer end and a tail end with slider lock assemblies, enabling efficient data input on a touch panel or watch by pivoting segments and using capacitive coupling for signal transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If more input buttons are added to digital watches, then data input capability is improved, but watch size becomes too large for comfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a third dimension by attaching a foldable keyboard assembly to the side of the watch case, allowing the keyboard to extend perpendicular to the watch face when needed and fold away when not in use. This dimensional change provides full keyboard input capability without increasing the watch face area.
Solution Approach 2:
The keyboard assembly is designed to be foldable and movable between a stored position against the watch case and an extended typing position. This dynamic structure allows the watch to adapt its form factor based on whether keyboard input is needed, providing full functionality without permanent size increase.
2Ease of operation
If manual data entry is performed on watches, then data input is possible, but power consumption increases and battery life decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual button pressing with a mechanical keyboard typing mechanism. The keyboard uses mechanical key switches that register presses through physical actuation, allowing for more efficient input than navigating through menu options with limited buttons, thereby reducing the time the processor needs to remain active.
Solution Approach 2:
The keyboard allows users to pre-type entire messages or data entries in one sitting, rather than incrementally building data through multiple menu navigations. This preliminary action reduces the cumulative power consumption that would result from keeping the processor and display active over extended periods of incremental data entry.
3Ease of operation
If manual data entry is performed on watches, then data input is possible, but error rate increases and time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical keyboard provides tactile feedback and precise key registration, eliminating the ambiguity and errors associated with navigating limited button options. Each key press is clearly registered, reducing data entry errors and the time needed to correct mistakes.
Solution Approach 2:
The keyboard creates a dedicated typing environment isolated from the watch's limited interface constraints. Users can type naturally without the interruptions and constraints of menu systems, maintaining focus and reducing errors throughout the data entry process.
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
The device allows for convenient data input on a watch without the need for additional devices, reduces power consumption, and extends battery life by minimizing the need for continuous processor operation, while being compact and user-friendly.
Implementation Method 1
using capacitive coupling for signal transmission
Data Source
AI summary
A digital device and a method of forming a digital device. The digital device includes a body, circuitry and a folding assembly. The body is provided with a body having a pointer end and a tail end opposite the pointer end. Circuitry is disposed within the body for sending or receiving signals representing a position of the pointer end relative to a signal receiving surface disposed on a watch. A folding assembly integral with the body permits the body to fold from a linear shape to a folded shape adapted to circumscribe at least a portion of a watch band. The body may be formed with a plurality of hinges interconnecting a plurality of segments of the body, wherein the plurality of hinges connects the body segments to permit the body to pivot from the linear shape to a geometric shape adapted to circumscribe a portion of the watch band.