Wrist-Worn Code Reader Rotation Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wrist-worn product code readers face challenges in efficiently activating and deactivating the light source to conserve battery power and prevent accidental activation, particularly in scenarios where ambient light is used or privacy concerns are present.
Innovation Solution
A wrist-worn device with a band or strap, equipped with a sensor to detect rotation around the wrist's longitudinal axis, activates the optical component only when a predefined angle and time are met, reducing accidental activation by eliminating the need for manual button pressing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a button or simple wake-up gesture is used to activate the device, then ease of operation is improved, but accidental activation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The activation mechanism transitions from static (button press) or simple dynamic (tap/shake) to a more complex dynamic gesture requiring rotation of the wrist-mounted device around the longitudinal axis by at least 30 degrees within a specified time period. This dynamic complexity selectively filters intentional vs. accidental movements based on the specific rotational pattern required.
2Measurement precision
If the light source is kept on continuously, then reading accuracy is improved, but battery consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light source operates periodically rather than continuously - it is activated only during brief intervals when the rotation gesture is detected and deactivated after a predetermined time period when no reading activity is detected. This periodic operation maintains reading capability when needed while dramatically reducing overall power consumption during extended periods of non-use.
3Productivity
If the camera is always on to capture product codes, then reading capability is improved, but privacy concerns increase
Solution Approach 1:
The camera and optical components are activated periodically only when the specific rotation gesture is detected, rather than remaining continuously active. This ensures reading capability is maintained when the user intends to scan a product while preventing unauthorized continuous monitoring that would raise privacy concerns.
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
This solution provides a convenient and reliable method to activate the product code reader, minimizing battery consumption and reducing accidental activations, while ensuring the light source is only active when needed, thus enhancing user experience and privacy.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor configured in use to detect rotation of the device indicative of a rotation of the device around the longitudinal axis of the wearer's wrist
Data Source
AI summary
A wrist-worn device comprises a band or strap for attaching the device to a wearer's wrist; a product code reader comprising at least one optical component; a sensor; and a processor. The sensor is configured in use to detect rotation of the device indicative of a rotation of the device around a longitudinal axis of the wearer's wrist. The processor is coupled to the sensor and to the product code reader and is configured in use to activate the optical component, or place the device in a state in which a predefined subsequent action or actions can activate the optical component, when the sensor detects a rotation of the device over at least a predefined angle.