Movable Display Actuator for Underwater Acoustic Notifications
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electronic devices, such as smartwatches, lack effective notification methods underwater, as traditional speakers are unable to generate audible sound waves and haptic notifications may be ineffective due to high pressure or user distractions, posing challenges for critical alerts in aquatic environments.
Innovation Solution
A wearable electronic device with a movable display actuated by a magnetic component and coil, capable of generating sound waves between 50 Hz and 15,000 Hz by vibrating underwater, allowing for audible notifications and haptic feedback, even under high pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional speakers are used for notifications, then audible sound waves can be generated in air, but they fail to generate audible sound waves underwater
Solution Approach 1:
The display is designed to be movable relative to the housing, allowing it to vibrate dynamically underwater to generate sound waves. The display can move between a first position and a second position, creating audible notifications in aquatic environments where traditional static speakers fail.
Solution Approach 2:
The display serves dual functions: it acts as both a visual display and an acoustic notification device underwater. By integrating the notification function into the existing display structure, the device achieves multi-functionality without adding separate speaker components.
2Reliability
If haptic notifications are used underwater, then feedback can be provided to the user, but they become ineffective due to high pressure or user distractions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces haptic feedback mechanisms with an acoustic vibration system. Instead of relying on mechanical haptic motors that fail under high pressure, the display itself vibrates to produce audible sound waves underwater, providing reliable notification delivery independent of pressure conditions.
3Strength
If the display is made rigid for structural integrity, then it can withstand pressure, but it cannot vibrate effectively to generate sound waves
Solution Approach 1:
The display is designed with differentiated structural properties: the overall structure maintains rigidity for pressure resistance, while specific regions are engineered to allow controlled vibration for sound generation. The display moves between defined positions rather than requiring complete rigidity, achieving both strength and acoustic functionality.
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
Enables clear and perceivable notifications underwater, including alerts for safety, navigation, and device status, enhancing user safety and communication in aquatic environments.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator can include a magnetic component and a coil, the coil fixed to the display and movable relative to the magnetic component
Implementation Method 2
a display movably connected to the housing... The actuator can move the display based on a detected change in the environment... The movement of the display underwater can generate sound waves between 50 Hz and 15,000 Hz
Data Source
AI summary
A wearable electronic device can include a housing defining an internal volume, a sensor configured to detect an environment of the wearable electronic device. A display can be movably connected to the housing, and an actuator disposed in the internal volume and connected to the display. The actuator can move the display based on a detected change in the environment.