Rotatable Dial Camera Aperture for Compact Wearable Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Integrating multiple input/output devices, such as cameras and sensors, into wearable electronic devices like watches is challenging due to size and aesthetic constraints, making it difficult to provide both functionality and compactness.
Innovation Solution
A watch design that incorporates a rotatable dial with a camera aperture, allowing image capture through the dial and using an image sensor for both picture capture and rotational input detection, and a back-facing camera that can be removed for full functionality, with components like image sensors and camera flashes being multi-purposed for physiological sensing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple I/O devices are integrated into the wearable device, then the functionality and versatility of the device is improved, but the device size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The image sensor serves multiple functions: capturing images through the dial aperture, detecting dial rotation for input, and enabling physiological monitoring when the watch is worn. This multi-functionality allows one component to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate devices, improving versatility while controlling complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the camera aperture with the dial structure, merging two functional elements (camera and user interface) into a single integrated component. This merging reduces the number of separate parts and simplifies the overall device architecture while maintaining both imaging and rotational input capabilities
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple I/O devices are integrated into the wearable device, then the functionality and versatility of the device is improved, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The image sensor performs multiple functions (imaging, rotation detection, physiological sensing) that would traditionally require multiple separate components, thereby reducing the overall device volume while maintaining enhanced functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The camera aperture is nested within the dial structure, and the image sensor is positioned to serve multiple purposes depending on the watch configuration (worn vs. removed). This nesting allows components to serve multiple functions within a compact volume
3Shape
If the camera aperture is integrated through the dial, then the aesthetic appeal and compactness are improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The dial and camera aperture are merged into a single integrated structure, which simplifies the manufacturing process compared to assembling separate components. The aperture is formed as part of the dial itself, reducing alignment and positioning precision requirements
4Device complexity
If the image sensor is used for both picture capture and rotational input detection, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The image sensor is designed to operate in multiple modes: capturing images through the aperture and detecting dial rotation by tracking markings. This multi-functionality reduces device complexity while the sensor's inherent precision capabilities meet both imaging and rotation detection requirements
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 a compact watch with integrated camera functionality while allowing for both scene capture and physiological monitoring, enhancing user interaction and device versatility without the need for separate sensing components.
Implementation Method 1
detecting light reflected from markings on the dial to determine rotational input
Implementation Method 2
capture pictures of a scene through an aperture extending through the dial
Data Source
AI summary
A watch having a camera is disclosed. The watch can include a housing having a front side, a back side, and an attachment interface configured to couple to a watch band. A camera can be mounted to the housing and configured to capture a picture of a scene through the back side of the housing. A display can be visible through the front side of the housing and configured to display the picture.