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

VSEngineering 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

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehaptic system structureVSAvoidhaptic feedback intensity
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSObject-generated harmful factors

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.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Object-generated harmful factors

If multiple haptic segments are activated simultaneously, then the haptic feedback intensity is increased, but the energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehaptic feedback intensityVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-generated harmful factorsVSUse of energy by moving object

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.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Adaptability or versatility

If haptic feedback is coordinated with digital content display, then the user immersion is improved, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser immersionVSAvoidsystem coordination mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

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.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPiezoelectric effect: Piezoelectric Effect

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

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVibration transmission: Vibration

Data Source

PatentUS20250044601A1Haptic systems for head-worn computers
Publication Date: 2025.02.06 OSTERHOUT GROUP INC
  • US20250044601A1 patent drawing
  • US20250044601A1 patent drawing
  • US20250044601A1 patent drawing

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.