Multi-functional ergonomic interface
First Claim
1. A control apparatus for implementing user commands on an electronic device, the control apparatus comprising:
- a mounting frame for attachment to a user'"'"'s hand;
at least one sensor coupled to the mounting frame for generating signals in response to a user-initiated input received by the sensor; and
a physical link layer located remotely of the mounting frame, the physical link layer being in communication with the sensor and interfaced with an electronic device, wherein the physical link layer receives signals generated by the sensor, processes the signal for compatability with the electronic device and transmits such processed signals to the electronic device to allow for control and navigation of such device.
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Accused Products
Abstract
A wearable control apparatus is provided for implementing desired user commands on an electronic device. The apparatus comprises a mounting frame for attaching to one or more of the user'"'"'s fingers, various sensors for generating a command signal in response to user initiated input, and a physical link layer for performing processing on the command signals generated by the sensors and transmitting such processed signals to the electronic device to allow for control and navigation of such device. Preferably, the mounting frame is biometrically shaped to be ergonomically worn on the user'"'"'s index finger or embedded in a “smart-glove”, such that the wearer'"'"'s thumb can manipulate the sensors with minimal physical movement. The control apparatus can interface with the electronic device through a wire based or wireless connection, with an optional antenna for transmitting signals and power supply preferably attached to a user'"'"'s wrist to maximize ergonomics and the range of use of the invention.
139 Citations
23 Claims
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1. A control apparatus for implementing user commands on an electronic device, the control apparatus comprising:
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a mounting frame for attachment to a user'"'"'s hand;
at least one sensor coupled to the mounting frame for generating signals in response to a user-initiated input received by the sensor; and
a physical link layer located remotely of the mounting frame, the physical link layer being in communication with the sensor and interfaced with an electronic device, wherein the physical link layer receives signals generated by the sensor, processes the signal for compatability with the electronic device and transmits such processed signals to the electronic device to allow for control and navigation of such device. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19)
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16. A control apparatus for implementing desired user commands on an electronic device in a secure environment, comprising:
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a mounting frame for attachment to a portion of a user'"'"'s hand;
at least one sensor coupled to the mounting frame for generating signals in response to user initiated input received by the sensor;
a physical link layer in communication with the sensor and interfaced with an electronic device, wherein the physical link layer receives, and performs processing on, signals generated by the sensor and transmits such processed signals to the electronic device to allow for control and navigation of such device, and an authentication means for monitoring and controlling access to the electronic device.
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20. The control apparatus of claims 20 wherein the mount is a wrist-mounted strap.
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21. A self-powered control apparatus for implementing a desired user command on an electronic device, the electronic device having a primary circuit, the self-powered control apparatus comprising:
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a mounting frame for attachment to a portion of a user'"'"'s hand;
at least one sensor coupled to the mounting frame for generating signals in response to user initiated input received by the sensor;
a physical link layer in communication with the sensor and interfaced with an electronic device, wherein the physical link layer receives, and performs processing on, signals generated by the sensor and transmits such processed signals to the electronic device to allow for control and navigation of such device, and a secondary circuit associated with the control apparatus, the secondary circuit being electromagnetically coupled to the primary circuit of the electronic device such that as the secondary circuit is in proximity with the primary circuit, electric energy is transferred therebetween to provide power for the control apparatus. - View Dependent Claims (22)
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23. A control apparatus for implementing desired stimulus commands on a user, comprising:
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a mounting frame for attachment to a portion of a user'"'"'s hand;
at least one transducer mounted to the mounting frame for generating stimulus in response to an initiated input received by the control apparatus; and
a physical link layer in communication with the at least one transducer and interfaced with an electronic device, wherein the physical link layer receives signals generated by the electronic device and transmits signals to the at least one transducer to initiate a desired stimulus.
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Specification