Wearable Ring Controller with Micro Joystick for Hands-Free Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile devices require users to stop their activities and interact directly with the device, leading to distractions and safety concerns, especially in outdoor or hazardous environments.
Innovation Solution
A wearable ring-shaped electronic controller that allows users to remotely control external devices using a micro joystick lever, enabling hands-free operation and minimizing disruption to the user's primary task.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users directly interact with the mobile device, then control functionality is achieved, but user attention is diverted from main activity
Solution Approach 1:
A wearable ring controller serves as an intermediary device between the user and the mobile device. The ring includes a joystick that transmits control signals wirelessly to the mobile device, allowing users to control the device without directly holding or looking at it. This mediator enables hands-free operation while maintaining user focus on the primary activity.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system is segmented into two separate components: the wearable ring controller worn on the finger and the mobile device itself. This segmentation allows the control interface to be separated from the device being controlled, enabling users to operate the device remotely while keeping their hands and attention on their main activity.
2Ease of operation
If users remove glove to retrieve device, then device accessibility is improved, but user activity is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The wearable ring acts as an intermediary control interface that remains accessible while the user's hand is gloved. Since the ring is worn on the finger, it can be operated through the glove material, eliminating the need to remove the glove or retrieve the device from storage compartments during outdoor activities.
Solution Approach 2:
The control interface moves from a two-dimensional screen surface to a three-dimensional wearable object on the finger. This dimensional change allows the controller to be positioned in space where it remains accessible throughout the activity without requiring the user to stop or adjust their clothing.
3Reliability
If device is stored in protective clothing, then device protection is improved, but device operability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The ring controller serves as a mediator that provides device control functionality without requiring the device itself to be accessible. The device can remain securely stored in protective clothing while the ring, worn on the finger, provides all necessary control operations through wireless communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The control functionality is extracted from the mobile device and transferred to the wearable ring. This extraction allows the device to be completely separated from the user's hand and stored safely in protective clothing, while the ring retains the ability to control all device functions independently.
4Productivity
If hands are occupied with equipment, then task performance is improved, but device control is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The wearable ring acts as an intermediary control device that can be operated with the thumb while the rest of the hand remains occupied with equipment. The ring's joystick can be manipulated by thumb movement alone, enabling device control without requiring any other hand contact or releasing the equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The ring controller provides universal control capability that works regardless of hand occupancy status. It can be operated by thumb movement whether the hand is holding equipment, performing physical tasks, or engaged in any other activity, making it a multi-functional solution for all hands-occupied scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a wearable electronic controller for remotely controlling an external electronic device. The controller comprises a body configured to fit on a human finger, and a multi-directional switch. The multi-directional switch comprises: a lever that extends outwardly from an outer surface of the body, and a control unit configured generate input signals in response to manipulation of the lever. The controller further comprises circuitry configured to generate command signals based on the input signals, and to wirelessly transmit the command signals to the external electronic device, wherein the generated command signals are for causing respective actions to be performed at the external electronic device.