Wearable Mode Switching for Battery-Saving Private Data Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional wearable devices are limited by space and size, restricting user interaction and requiring cumbersome menu navigation, and operate in a single state, wasting battery power whether worn or not.
Innovation Solution
A wearable computing device that automatically switches between private and public modes based on whether it is being worn, using sensors to determine user presence and adjust functionality accordingly, including data access and display settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the wearable device operates in a single state continuously, then the device structure is simple, but battery power is wasted when the device is not worn
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-mode operating system that dynamically transitions between public mode and private mode based on whether the device is detected as being worn. The system uses sensors (accelerometer, gyroscope, proximity sensor) to detect device state and automatically switches between operational modes, allowing the device to conserve energy in public mode while providing full functionality in private mode when worn.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the wearable device provides full functionality always, then user capability is maximized, but battery consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes operational parameters based on device state by implementing different functional sets in public versus private mode. In public mode, the device provides limited functionality (basic time display, simple notifications) while in private mode, full functionality is enabled (comprehensive notifications, data synchronization, interactive features). This parameter change approach allows the device to adapt its resource consumption to actual usage needs.
3Ease of operation
If private data is always accessible, then user convenience is improved, but security is compromised when device is not worn
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary authentication and mode setting before data access. The system pre-establishes security protocols by detecting device wear state and automatically setting the appropriate operational mode. In public mode, private data is restricted by default, while in private mode (when worn), authentication is performed and data access is granted. This preliminary action ensures security is maintained without requiring user intervention at the moment of data access.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the device requires menu navigation for tasks, then device functionality is comprehensive, but ease of use decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different interaction qualities to different operational modes. In public mode, the interface is simplified with direct access to essential functions and minimal navigation required. In private mode, when the device is worn, the full interactive menu system is available for comprehensive task management. This local quality approach allows the device to provide comprehensive functionality when needed while maintaining ease of use for basic operations.
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
Enhances user motivation and battery life by providing personalized data access when worn and conserving power when not worn, while securing sensitive information.
Implementation Method 1
a capacitance, conductance, galvanic skin response, accelerometer, heartbeat monitor, or a device with a microprocessor may be used to make the determination
Implementation Method 2
a capacitance, conductance, galvanic skin response, accelerometer, heartbeat monitor, or a device with a microprocessor may be used to make the determination
Data Source
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Figure 3
Figure 4a
AI summary
Systems and techniques are disclosed for detecting whether a wearable computing device is worn by a user or not. The detection can be made based on whether the device is secured to a user or based on a sensor. A device worn by a user may be operated in a private mode such that the user wearing the device is provided information that is useful while wearing the device. For example, the user may receive message notifications, news updates, telephone call information, or the like. A wearable computing device maybe operated in a public mode while not being worn by a user. While in the public mode, the device may provide non user specific information such as a current time, media items, or the like.