Rotating Ring Band With Variable Friction for Precise Input
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices lack intuitive and unobtrusive input mechanisms that provide precise control and feedback for user interactions, particularly when used at a distance or in environments where direct contact is inconvenient.
Innovation Solution
A ring input device with a rotating outer band that modulates rotational friction and resistance, utilizing variable resistance generators and magnetic or electromagnetic forces to enhance user interaction, and incorporates sensors for position detection and haptic feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a rotating outer band is used for input operations, then ease of operation is improved, but control precision deteriorates due to slippery contact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different surface properties to different regions of the outer band. Specifically, it incorporates friction-enhancing features such as textured surfaces, ridges, or patterned regions at specific locations where user contact occurs. This allows the band to provide enhanced grip and control precision at contact points while maintaining smooth rotation in non-contact areas, thus resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and control precision.
2Measurement precision
If rotational friction is increased to improve control, then control precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements variable friction mechanisms that dynamically adjust rotational resistance based on operational context. This includes using magnetic fields or electromagnetic forces to modulate friction between the outer band and inner band, allowing the system to provide high friction control precision when needed while maintaining low friction for easy operation during other phases, thus resolving the contradiction between control precision and ease of operation.
3Volume of moving object
If the ring device is made compact for wearable use, then portability is improved, but device complexity increases due to space constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested structural arrangement where the outer band rotates around an inner band, with sensors, magnets, and other components embedded within the layered structure. This nested configuration allows multiple functional elements to be packed into a compact wearable form factor while maintaining their individual functions, thus resolving the contradiction between compact size and device complexity.
4Measurement precision
If variable resistance mechanisms are added to modulate rotational friction, then control precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical friction modulation mechanisms with field-based approaches, specifically using magnetic fields or electromagnetic forces to control rotational resistance. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical components such as springs, dampers, or variable friction surfaces, achieving precise control modulation through simpler electromagnetic actuation, thus resolving the contradiction between control precision and device complexity.
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
Enhances user experience by providing precise control and feedback through adjustable rotational resistance, enabling intuitive input operations and reducing accidental triggers, while maintaining a compact and wearable form factor.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing variable resistance generators and magnetic or electromagnetic forces to enhance user interaction
Implementation Method 2
utilizing variable resistance generators and magnetic or electromagnetic forces to enhance user interaction
Implementation Method 3
incorporates sensors for position detection and haptic feedback
Implementation Method 4
incorporates sensors for position detection and haptic feedback
Data Source
AI summary
A ring input device, and more particularly to variable rotational resistance mechanisms within the ring input device that modulate the rotational friction of a rotating outer band to improve the user experience, is disclosed. Because finger rings are often small and routinely worn, electronic finger rings can be employed as unobtrusive communication devices that are readily available to communicate wirelessly with other devices capable of receiving those communications. Ring input devices according to examples of the disclosure can modulate the rotational friction of its rotating outer band in accordance with an item (e.g., user interface or parameter) being manipulated by the band.