Wrist-Mounted Convex Mirror for Rearview Observation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices fail to provide active individuals with a multipurpose solution to observe their surroundings behind them without obstructing their forward vision, while also allowing for identification and medication storage, and integration with health monitoring devices like heart rate monitors or GPS.
Innovation Solution
A wrist-worn device featuring a convex mirror, a clearly marked identification holder, and a medication capsule, integrated with a wristband that can also retain a monitor or watch, ensuring the device is small, unobtrusive, and does not interfere with forward vision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a rearview mirror is added to a watch, then the user can observe surroundings behind them, but the device complexity increases and forward vision may be obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (rearview mirror, identification holder, medication capsule, and health monitor integration) into a single wrist-worn device. The mirror is integrated with the watch housing, and storage compartments are incorporated into the same structure, eliminating the need for separate devices and reducing overall system complexity despite adding functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The device serves multiple purposes: it provides rearview observation for safety, stores identification and medication, monitors health metrics, and functions as a regular watch. This multi-functionality addresses the need for versatility while maintaining a compact form factor that doesn't obstruct forward vision.
2Reliability
If identification and medication storage are integrated into the wrist device, then safety and convenience are improved, but the device volume increases
Solution Approach 1:
The identification holder and medication capsule are nested within the watch housing structure. The ID holder is positioned in a recessed area of the case, and the medication capsule is integrated into the side or back of the device, utilizing internal space efficiently without significantly increasing the external dimensions of the wrist-worn device.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a convex mirror is used for rearview observation, then a wider field of view is achieved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies using a convex mirror with a defined radius of curvature (e.g., 100mm or 150mm) to achieve a wider field of view for rearward observation. The curved surface allows the user to see a broader area behind them without significantly increasing manufacturing complexity, as convex mirrors are standard optical components with well-established fabrication methods.
4Ease of operation
If the device is kept small and unobtrusive, then forward vision is not obstructed, but the storage capacity for medication and identification is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The device maintains a compact overall size to avoid obstructing forward vision, but incorporates localized storage solutions: a recessed ID holder for flat identification items and a small capsule for medication. These localized compartments are positioned to utilize unused space within the watch housing, providing necessary storage capacity while preserving the device's sleek, non-obtrusive form factor.
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
Enables users to safely view their surroundings behind them without obstructing their forward vision, while securely storing identification and medication, and integrating with health monitoring devices for enhanced functionality.
Implementation Method 1
an upper convex mirrored surface, the mirrored surface retained by the lip
Data Source
AI summary
A personal safety device for use with a wrist band for releasable attachment to a user's wrist, the safety device comprising: an upper convex mirrored surface; an identification (ID) holder slot, the ID holder slot extending from the front towards the back; an ID holder, the ID holder slidably, removably retained in the ID holder slot; and a medication holder.