Wearable Signaling Device for Motorcyclists Using Haptic Feedback
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Riders of human- and engine-powered vehicles face safety risks due to reduced visibility and lack of dynamic signaling in low-light conditions, and existing navigational solutions distract operators or are ineffective for smaller vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A wearable device with an external electroluminescent diode array and haptic feedback mechanism, connected to external devices via personal-area-network protocols, providing automatic and manual signaling and navigational prompts without requiring the rider to divert attention from the road.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If traditional navigational displays are used, then navigational information is provided to the rider, but the rider's attention is diverted from the road creating safety risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses haptic feedback as an intermediary medium to convey navigational information. Instead of directly displaying visual information that competes for the rider's attention, the system translates navigational data into tactile sensations through the handlebar, allowing the rider to receive guidance subconsciously without visual distraction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces visual display mechanisms with haptic feedback mechanisms. The electronic display system is substituted with a tactile feedback system that uses vibration and pressure sensations to communicate navigational information, eliminating the need for the rider to visually engage with the display.
2Illumination intensity
If static illuminants like bicycle lights and reflectors are used, then visibility is improved, but dynamic signaling of intention is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms static illuminants into dynamic signaling devices. The LED arrays are controlled to change patterns, intensities, and configurations based on the rider's intended actions (turning, stopping, alerting), allowing the lighting system to actively communicate dynamic intentions rather than merely providing static illumination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional lighting system that serves both visibility and communication functions. The same LED arrays that provide illumination also dynamically signal the rider's intentions to other road users, combining multiple functions into a single adaptable system.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the rider manually activates signaling devices, then dynamic signaling is achieved, but the activation process requires distraction from the road
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service signaling where the system automatically detects the rider's intended actions through sensors (accelerometers, gyroscopes, pressure sensors) and activates the appropriate signals without requiring manual intervention. The system serves itself by autonomously translating the rider's physical actions into communicative signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback from sensors that monitor the rider's vehicle control inputs (handlebar angle, brake pressure, body position) to automatically trigger appropriate signaling responses. The system continuously monitors rider actions and provides immediate feedback through automated signal activation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If wearable devices are added to provide haptic feedback and signaling, then navigational information and signaling are integrated, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions (navigation display, turn signaling, hazard lighting, visibility illumination) into a single integrated wearable apparatus. By combining these previously separate systems into one unified device mounted on the rider's helmet or clothing, the patent reduces overall system complexity while maintaining full functionality.
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 visibility and safety by allowing seamless, non-distracting directional signaling and navigational information delivery, reducing the risk of accidents by enabling hands-free operation and clear communication of intentions to other road users.
Implementation Method 1
an external electroluminescent diode array
Implementation Method 2
an electronic haptic feedback mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a device and a method associated with the device. With respect to the device, it is a wearable garment for the hand, wrist, and/or forearm with an embedded array of lights; one or more micro processing units; one or more touch or pressure activated switches, buttons, or toggles; one or more motion sensing mechanisms; and one or more wireless transmission components which is capable of receiving and transmitting information to a mobile computing device. A wireless transmission device is also disclosed which is attached or embedded in a vehicle connected to the turn signaling system. The mobile computing device such as a smartphone or GPS unit tracks the wearer's location and route and transmits a signal to the wearable garment when a turn approaches causing haptic feedback vibration to the wearer and activation of the embedded lights on the appropriate side. The wearable garment also transmits and receives signals from the wireless transmission device in the vehicle which activates or deactivates the turn signals on the vehicle when the wearable garment's lights and haptic feedback mechanisms are activated or deactivated, and reciprocally the lights and haptic feedback systems on the wearable garment when the turn signal on the vehicle is activated or deactivated. The wearable garment signaling system may be activated by the user's hand/arm motions, by actuation of embedded switches, buttons, or toggles, or by signal from the mobile computing device.