Modular Eyewear Temples for Swappable Electronic Functions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing eyeglasses face challenges in incorporating and modifying electrical components due to design constraints and lack of reliable attachment methods, limiting the ability to add or change electrical features after manufacturing.
Innovation Solution
The integration of temple arrangements and adapters with embedded or attachable electrical components, allowing for swappable temple portions and extended endpieces to facilitate the inclusion of various electrical functionalities such as sensors, communication devices, and power sources without compromising the aesthetic design of the eyeglasses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If electrical components are integrated into traditional eyeglass frames, then functional capabilities are improved, but design flexibility and ease of modification are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the eyeglass system into separate functional modules: a base frame and interchangeable temple portions. Each temple portion can be independently manufactured with specific electrical components (sensors, communication devices, power sources), allowing functional capabilities to be added without redesigning the entire frame. This segmentation enables manufacturers to produce standardized frames that can accommodate multiple temple configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic adaptability through interchangeable temple portions that can be swapped based on user needs. The temple portions include engagement features (such as magnets, clips, or threaded connections) that allow easy attachment and detachment. This dynamic system enables the eyeglasses to transition between different functional states without permanent modification to the base frame.
2Reliability
If electrical components are permanently attached to eyeglass frames, then reliability is improved, but adaptability and ease of modification are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces intermediary connection mechanisms between the base frame and temple portions. These intermediaries (such as magnetic couplings, bayonet connectors, or snap-fit interfaces) provide reliable electrical and mechanical connections while enabling easy detachment. The intermediary layer absorbs the stress of repeated attachment/detachment cycles, protecting both the frame and temple portions from damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables users to discard outdated or malfunctioning temple portions and replace them with new ones, while the base frame remains intact and reusable. This approach allows selective replacement of only the components that need updating, reducing waste and maintenance costs compared to replacing entire eyeglass frames.
3Shape
If traditional eyeglass frame structures are used, then aesthetic design is maintained, but the ability to support electrical components is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by concentrating electrical components and functional features within the temple portions rather than distributing them throughout the entire frame. This allows the main frame to maintain its aesthetic design with minimal visual impact, while the temple portions (which are less visually prominent) house the electronics, batteries, and communication antennas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent moves functional capabilities from the two-dimensional frame plane into the three-dimensional temple structure. By utilizing the volume and length of the temple portions, the design can accommodate larger electrical components, power sources, and antenna structures without compromising the aesthetic appearance of the front frame and lenses.
4Adaptability or versatility
If electrical components are added to eyeglasses, then functionality is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates universal temple portions that can serve multiple functions: structural support, electrical connection, mechanical adjustment, and housing for various electrical components. A single temple portion design can accommodate different sensor types, communication modules, and power sources through standardized mounting interfaces, reducing the number of unique parts needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent treats temple portions as replaceable, lower-cost components compared to the main frame. If electrical components fail or become obsolete, users can replace only the temple portions rather than the entire eyeglass assembly. This approach reduces the overall system cost and allows for easier upgrades without significant investment.
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for providing eyewear with electrical components are disclosed. The electrical components can provide electrical technology to eyewear without having to substantially compromise aesthetic design principles of the eyewear. The electrical components can be partially or completely internal to eyewear, such as within an extended endpiece or a removable temple (or temple part). The electrical components can also be attached to the eyewear as an after-market enhancement. The electrical components can operate independently or together with other electrical components provided elsewhere. Apparatus for presenting after-market electrical components are also disclosed.