Ultra-Thin Wearable Communications Device Wireless Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile communication devices are not sufficiently compact to be carried unobtrusively, and they lack the ability to be controlled without manual input, limiting their usability and convenience.
Innovation Solution
A mobile communications device with a thin, credit card-sized casing containing a cellular communications circuit, a local communications circuit for free space communication, and a control circuit that allows operation via external devices like Bluetooth keyboards, along with a compact module featuring a stack of interconnected chips and an accessory with an earphone, microphone, and electronic camera for wireless interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If mobile communication devices are made smaller to be easier to carry, then portability is improved, but the device size cannot be reduced further to achieve unobtrusive carrying
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical input devices (keyboards, buttons) with a wireless communication system. The local communications circuit enables the device to receive control inputs via wireless signals from external devices, eliminating the need for physical input mechanisms and allowing the device to be made extremely compact without sacrificing operational capability.
2Volume of moving object
If the device is made compact and concealed, then portability is improved, but the ability to provide full functionality is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by enabling the compact device to interface with external auxiliary input and output devices through wireless communication. The local communications circuit allows the device to function as a remote control, media player, or communication hub by connecting to keyboards, displays, speakers, or other devices, thereby providing comprehensive functionality despite the minimal form factor.
3Volume of moving object
If manual input devices are removed to reduce size, then device compactness is improved, but user control capability is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary wireless communication system that mediates between the user and the device. The local communications circuit acts as a mediator, receiving control inputs from external devices (such as wireless keyboards or remote controls) and translating them into commands for the cellular communications circuit, thereby preserving user control capability without requiring physical input devices on the device itself.
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, user-friendly mobile device that can be carried concealed and controlled wirelessly, providing full functionality without manual input, enhancing usability and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
The local communications circuit is desirably operative to receive information representing control inputs by free space communication, and to send and receive information representing the content of a message such as a cellular telephone call by free space communications
Implementation Method 2
The earphone receives signals representing a telephone call from the communications circuit and delivers sound to the user's ear
Implementation Method 3
The microphone supplies audio signals representing the user's voice to the communications circuit
Data Source
AI summary
A device is provided with a housing adapted to engage a portion of a head of a user, such as the ear of the user. The device includes a camera component adapted to face in the same direction as the user when engaged with the portion of the head of the user. The device may be adapted to be controlled using voice commands from the user.