Rotating Ring Scanner Attachment for Ambidextrous Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wearable electronic devices, such as ring scanners, require users to detach and reorient the device for left- or right-handed operation, disrupting workflow and limiting ergonomic flexibility.
Innovation Solution
An attachment device with pivotally coupled subassemblies, including a mounting component, retainer component, and spring component, allowing 360° rotation of the electronic device for ergonomic positioning without detachment, facilitated by a trigger assembly for actuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the ring scanner is designed with a fixed orientation, then the structural complexity is reduced, but the adaptability for left- or right-handed operation is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The ring scanner is divided into two pivotally coupled subassemblies: a first subassembly containing the mounting component, retainer component, and spring component, and a second subassembly containing the scanning component. This segmentation allows independent rotation of each subassembly, enabling left- or right-handed operation configurations without requiring complete redesign of the entire device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic reconfigurability through pivotal couplings that allow the subassemblies to rotate relative to each other. The spring component provides rotational bias while the trigger assembly enables controlled rotation, transforming a static fixed-orientation device into a dynamic reconfigurable system that adapts to different user preferences.
2Ease of operation
If the ring scanner allows rotation for ergonomic positioning, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The spring component automatically provides rotational bias to return the second subassembly to a neutral position after rotation. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for complex motorized systems or manual adjustment mechanisms, allowing users to easily rotate and reposition the scanning component while the spring automatically manages the return motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The trigger assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the user's input and the rotational movement. When activated, it releases the rotational constraint, allowing the spring to drive the rotation. This intermediary approach simplifies the direct coupling between user action and rotational movement.
3Reliability
If the ring scanner uses a simple mounting structure, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the reliability of maintaining stable positioning is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The spring component is pre-configured to provide rotational bias that cushions and stabilizes the rotational movement. This beforehand cushioning ensures that the second subassembly returns to a stable neutral position after rotation, maintaining reliable positioning during scanning operations without requiring complex active control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the spring's mechanical parameter (rotational bias force) to maintain stable positioning. By carefully selecting the spring's physical parameters, the system achieves reliable return-to-neutral behavior and stable positioning during scanning, simplifying the manufacturing process compared to electronic control systems.
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 seamless switching between left- and right-handed operation without interrupting workflow, enhancing user productivity by providing ergonomic flexibility and stability during scanning tasks.
Implementation Method 1
The spring component is housed in the first cavity. The second subassembly is defined to rotate about the axis.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides an attachment device comprising a first subassembly, comprising a mounting component, a retainer component, coupled to a second subassembly comprising a first rotatable component, a second rotatable component, and a trigger assembly. The mounting component comprises an opening defining at least one slot. The retainer component is coupled to the mounting component defining a first cavity. The spring component, housed in the first cavity, is coupled to the retainer component. The first rotatable component is coupled to the second rotatable component to define a second cavity extending from a first surface of the first rotatable component to a second surface of the second rotatable component. A trigger actuator of the trigger assembly is housed in the second cavity. The first rotatable component defines at least one tab defined to be received within the at least one slot of the mounting component.