Segmented Force Sensors for Wearable Mixed Reality
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mixed-reality applications face challenges in detecting and interpreting subtle touch interactions, such as forces applied during grip or virtual tool interactions, as video/audio sensors are inadequate for capturing these data.
Innovation Solution
The use of multi-segment force sensors integrated into wearable devices, like gloves, with flexible substrates and signal aggregators to detect and analyze forces applied by individuals, transmitting data to an application processing engine for interpretation and feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If video/audio sensors are used for mixed-reality applications, then visual and hearing data can be captured effectively, but touch-related force interactions cannot be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The force sensor is divided into multiple segments that can be distributed across different locations on the wearable device. Each segment independently detects force at its location, enabling comprehensive touch interaction detection while maintaining sensor versatility through modular architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The force sensing segments are integrated into a wearable device that can function across multiple sensing modalities. The same platform supports both traditional video/audio capture and new force detection capabilities, making the system versatile for various mixed-reality applications
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensor segments are integrated into wearable devices, then accurate force distribution detection is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is segmented into multiple independent force-detecting elements distributed on the wearable device. Each segment operates autonomously to detect local force, achieving precise force distribution detection while the modular segmented architecture actually reduces overall system complexity compared to a single complex sensor
Solution Approach 2:
The force sensor segments are integrated onto flexible substrate materials that conform to the wearable device structure. This flexible integration method simplifies device assembly and reduces structural complexity while maintaining accurate force detection capabilities across multiple segments
3Ease of operation
If flexible substrate materials are used for sensor integration, then comfort and natural feel are improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Flexible substrate materials are used as the foundation for mounting force sensor segments. These flexible substrates conform to the contours of body parts, providing wearer comfort and natural feel while the standardized flexible interface actually simplifies manufacturing compared to rigid precision mounting requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor system uses segmented force detectors mounted on flexible substrates. Each segment can be independently positioned and attached, reducing the cumulative precision requirements compared to a single large sensor. The segmented approach allows for easier manufacturing and assembly while maintaining comfort
Data Source
AI summary
A wearable electronic device comprises a multi-segment force sensor and a signal aggregator. The sensor comprises at least a first segment and a second segment connected to a flexible substrate material. A first portion of the substrate material (to which the first segment is attached) and a second portion of the substrate material (to which the second segment is attached) collectively wrap at least partially around a portion of an individual's body. The signal aggregator receives respective signals indicative of forces applied by an individual to the segments, and causes a representation of the respective signals to be transmitted to an application processing engine.