Wearable On-Head Detection Using Dual Sensor Triggering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wearable computing devices with near-eye displays face challenges in conserving battery life when not in use, as they continue to execute functions unnecessarily, leading to potential erroneous sensor readings and reduced battery longevity.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a dual-sensor system where a first sensor detects touch inputs and triggers an inward-facing second sensor to determine if the device is being worn, allowing the device to switch between active and idle modes to conserve power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the wearable computing device continues to execute functions continuously, then the device remains ready for use and responsive to user inputs, but battery power is consumed unnecessarily and sensor readings may become erroneous when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically transitions between operational states based on detected user presence. The processor adjusts the operational state of the wearable device according to whether a user is detected, allowing the device to be responsive when needed while conserving energy when not in use
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses sensor data as feedback to determine user presence and automatically adjusts device operation accordingly. The processor receives sensor data and uses it to trigger state transitions, creating a closed-loop control system that responds to environmental conditions
2Use of energy by moving object
If the wearable computing device switches to idle mode to conserve power, then battery life is extended, but the device may miss user inputs and fail to respond timely
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of user presence using sensors before transitioning to idle mode. By detecting touch inputs or proximity in advance, the system can prevent idle mode activation or trigger immediate wake-up, ensuring user inputs are not missed while still enabling power conservation when appropriate
3Measurement precision
If the device uses multiple sensors to detect user presence, then accuracy in determining worn state improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines data from multiple sensor types (touch sensors, proximity sensors, eye tracking sensors) to determine user presence. By merging information from these different sensing modalities, the system achieves high detection accuracy while using a coordinated approach that manages complexity through integrated processing
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are methods and devices for varying functionality of a wearable computing device. An example device includes a first sensor and a second sensor. An example method includes, while a device is operating in a first state, receiving an indication of a touch input at the first sensor. The second sensor is configured in an idle mode based on the device operating in the first state. The method further includes, in response to receiving the indication of the touch input, triggering the second sensor to operate in an active mode and receiving data from the second sensor. The method further includes determining, based on the data, whether the device is being worn.