Haptic Segments for Head-Worn Computers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing head-worn computer systems with haptic feedback struggle to provide an optimized user experience, particularly in see-through displays, due to the complexity of presenting content in a way that enhances user interaction and immersion.
Innovation Solution
A head-worn computer system that includes a frame for holding a display in front of the user's eye, a processor for presenting digital content and producing haptic signals, and a haptic system with individually controlled haptic segments, including piezo strips, to generate vibrations and enhance user feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single haptic actuator is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the haptic feedback intensity and controllability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The haptic feedback system is divided into multiple independent haptic segments (first haptic segment, second haptic segment, third haptic segment) that can be individually controlled. Each segment contains its own haptic actuator and can generate haptic feedback independently or in combination with other segments, enabling fine-grained control over haptic intensity and distribution without requiring a single complex high-intensity actuator.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If multiple haptic segments are activated simultaneously, then the haptic feedback intensity is increased, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system activates only the necessary number and combination of haptic segments based on the specific interaction context. Instead of always activating all haptic segments at maximum intensity, the processor selectively activates individual segments or combinations of segments (e.g., first and second segments together, or third segment alone) to provide sufficient haptic feedback while minimizing energy consumption. This partial activation approach ensures adequate haptic intensity is achieved only when and where needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If haptic feedback is coordinated with digital content display, then the user immersion is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The processor receives input about user interactions with the see-through display and dynamically coordinates haptic feedback from the segments accordingly. The system monitors interaction events (such as selecting content, scrolling, or other user actions) and triggers appropriate haptic segments to provide tactile confirmation or resistance. This feedback loop creates an immersive experience by synchronizing tactile sensations with visual content without requiring complex external coordination systems.
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 system provides enhanced user interaction and immersion by coordinating digital content display with haptic feedback, allowing for increased intensity and regulation of haptic sensations based on the activation of multiple haptic segments, thereby improving the overall user experience.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the haptic segments may include a piezo strip activated by the haptic signal to generate a vibration in the frame
Implementation Method 2
The vibration conduit is mounted proximate the haptic system and adapted to touch the skin of the user's head to facilitate vibration sensations from the haptic system to the user's head
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure relate to haptic feedback systems and methods for use in head-worn computing systems. A head worn computer includes a frame adapted to hold a computer display in front of a user's eye, a processor adapted to present digital content in the computer display and to produce a haptic signal in coordination with the digital content display, and a haptic system including a plurality of haptic segments, wherein each of the haptic segments is individually controlled in coordination with the haptic signal.


