Projection Headset Virtual Keypad Input
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current headset designs do not allow for easy data input without requiring the headset to be removed or positioned for visibility, compromising their compact and comfortable form factor.
Innovation Solution
A headset equipped with a processor, acoustic transducers, a projector, and a position detector that projects a virtual keypad onto a surface exterior to the headset, enabling users to input data by tracking finger movements relative to the projected image.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a mechanical keypad is added to the headset, then data input capability is improved, but the headset form factor becomes similar to a handset, negating advances in compact design and comfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a projector to create a virtual copy of a keypad on an external surface (user's hand, table, or other surface). This virtual keypad image provides full data input capability without adding physical components to the headset, maintaining its compact form factor while enabling complete keyboard functionality through optical projection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional physical keypad embedded in the headset to a virtual image projected onto an external surface in three-dimensional space. This allows the keypad to exist outside the headset's physical constraints, providing full functionality without increasing headset volume
2Loss of information
If a display is added to the headset, then data visibility is improved, but the user must position the headset for visibility or take it off, compromising ease of use
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of embedding a display in the headset that requires specific positioning, the patent projects a visual copy of the data interface onto an external surface where the user can view it from any comfortable position. The projected image on the user's hand or table provides complete data visibility without constraining headset placement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary projection surface (user's hand, table, or other external surface) between the headset and the user's eyes. This intermediary allows the user to view data from any angle and position while keeping the headset in place, eliminating the need to adjust headset positioning for display visibility
3Measurement precision
If the headset is removed for data input, then data entry accuracy is improved, but continuous wear and convenience are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent projects a virtual keypad and interface onto an external surface, creating a visual copy that the user can interact with while wearing the headset. This allows accurate data entry through visual feedback and precise finger positioning on the projected image, eliminating the need to remove the headset for data input tasks
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous data input capability while the headset remains on the user's head. The projected interface allows uninterrupted interaction with the system, maintaining continuous wear comfort while providing accurate data entry through the visual projection and finger tracking system
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 users to input data, such as telephone numbers, without removing the headset, maintaining its compact design while providing features similar to handsets or PDAs, allowing for alpha-numeric text entry and other interactive functions.
Implementation Method 1
a projector operably coupled to the processor for displaying an image on a surface exterior to the headset
Implementation Method 2
a position detector operably coupled to the processor for determining an image position and a user finger position
Implementation Method 3
at least one acoustic transducer
Data Source
AI summary
A headset apparatus including a virtual keypad and a method for inputting data into a headset are provided. In one embodiment, a headset includes a processor, at least one acoustic transducer, a projector operably coupled to the processor for displaying an image on a surface exterior to the headset, and a position detector operably coupled to the processor for determining an image position and a user finger position.