Wearable Data Input Management System for Seamless Source Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Users face inconvenience when switching between multiple data sources, such as audio and video inputs, as existing systems require manual adjustment or removal of interfaces, leading to a need for improved management of input signals from various sources.

Innovation Solution

A wearable data input management system that allows users to select and toggle between multiple data sources using a single interface, incorporating a selector mechanism, radiofrequency electronics, and a support system for comfortable and convenient use, such as in electronically enabled eyeglasses.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If users wear traditional audio interfaces (headphones or earbuds connected by cable) for music playback, then audio output is achieved, but the user must adjust or remove the interface when receiving cell phone calls or wearing glasses

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconvenience of audio interfaceVSAvoidcompatibility with other devices
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple data sources (MP3 player, cell phone, video player) and multiple interfaces (headphones, speakers, display screens) into a single integrated wearable device. This merging allows the device to function as both an audio interface and a communication device simultaneously, eliminating the need to remove or adjust the interface when switching between music playback and phone calls.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The wearable device is designed with multi-functionality to serve multiple purposes: it can play music, receive and make phone calls, display video, and provide visual notifications. This universal design allows a single device to replace multiple separate devices and interfaces, improving adaptability while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If users switch between multiple data sources (MP3 player, cell phone, video player) using traditional interfaces, then different functions are accessed, but manual adjustment or removal of interfaces is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccess to multiple data sourcesVSAvoidtime for switching interfaces
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic switching capability that automatically or semi-automatically transitions between different data sources and output modes. The device can dynamically adjust which data source is active and which interface is used based on user input or system detection, eliminating the manual adjustment time required by traditional interfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The wearable device serves as an intermediary between multiple data sources and the user. It receives data from various sources (MP3 player, cell phone, video player), processes and manages the data flow, and delivers it through appropriate interfaces. This intermediary role streamlines the switching process and reduces the time users spend manually adjusting interfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple interfaces are used simultaneously for different data sources, then comprehensive functionality is achieved, but device complexity and user management burden increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesupport for multiple input sourcesVSAvoidinterface management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The wearable device incorporates self-service features including automatic detection of active data sources, automatic routing to appropriate interfaces, and priority-based signal management. The system can automatically determine when to switch between music playback, phone calls, or video output without requiring complex manual configuration by the user, thereby reducing interface management complexity while maintaining support for multiple input sources.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS8482488B2Data input management system for wearable electronically enabled interface
Publication Date: 2013.07.09 OAKLEY INC
  • US8482488B2 patent drawing
  • US8482488B2 patent drawing
  • US8482488B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A data input management system is disclosed, for allowing a user to select one or more data sources, to be placed either simultaneously or one at a time into electrical communication with a single user interface. The user interface may comprise a wearable support, such as an eyeglass frame, adapted to carry one or more of speakers, microphone and video display, depending upon the desired functionality. Source electronics may be carried by the support or carried remotely, and in wireless communication with the support using Bluetooth protocols or other data transmission technology.