WO2018208891A1 - Intégration d'élément de raccordement pour des objets dont un article chaussant - Google Patents

Intégration d'élément de raccordement pour des objets dont un article chaussant Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2018208891A1
WO2018208891A1 PCT/US2018/031763 US2018031763W WO2018208891A1 WO 2018208891 A1 WO2018208891 A1 WO 2018208891A1 US 2018031763 W US2018031763 W US 2018031763W WO 2018208891 A1 WO2018208891 A1 WO 2018208891A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
electronics module
interactive object
connector
interactive
flexible
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2018/031763
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
David BEARDSLEY
Jason Cinge Wong
Original Assignee
Google Llc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Google Llc filed Critical Google Llc
Publication of WO2018208891A1 publication Critical patent/WO2018208891A1/fr

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F1/00—Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
    • G06F1/16—Constructional details or arrangements
    • G06F1/1613—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
    • G06F1/163—Wearable computers, e.g. on a belt
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43—FOOTWEAR
    • A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B3/00—Footwear characterised by the shape or the use
    • A43B3/34—Footwear characterised by the shape or the use with electrical or electronic arrangements
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43—FOOTWEAR
    • A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B3/00—Footwear characterised by the shape or the use
    • A43B3/34—Footwear characterised by the shape or the use with electrical or electronic arrangements
    • A43B3/48—Footwear characterised by the shape or the use with electrical or electronic arrangements with transmitting devices, e.g. GSM or Wi-Fi®

Definitions

  • An interactive object includes an electronics module.
  • the electronics module can be used to provide power, to receive information and/or controls and to send information and/or controls through a wireless network.
  • the electronics module can be removable from the interactive object.
  • the interactive object can include a rechargeable power source. The interactive object can be removed and charged prior to being placed back into the interactive object.
  • the electronics module can be configured to be connected to an electronic device in the interactive object.
  • conductive wires or thread can be integrated into the interactive object and can form a capacitive touch sensor that is configured to detect touch-input.
  • the interactive object can process the touch-input to generate touch data that is useable to initiate functionality at various remote devices that are wirelessly coupled to the interactive object.
  • the interactive object may aid users in controlling volume on a stereo, pausing a movie playing on a television, or selecting a webpage on a desktop computer.
  • the interactive object may include foot apparel, clothing, handbags, fabric casings, hats, and so forth.
  • the electronic device may comprise various other devices that are intended to either provide input to the electronics module or to display an output from the electronics module.
  • the electronics module may be incorporated into the interactive object and connected to an electronic component or device.
  • the electronic device may include conductive thread woven into the interactive textile to form a capacitive touch sensor that is configured to detect touch-input.
  • the electronic device is attached to a connector for facilitating coupling and decoupling with the electronics module.
  • This document describes an interactive object that includes an internal electronics module that is integrated into the interactive object.
  • the internal electronics module can be removably mounted to a rigid member on the interactive object.
  • a connector which includes a pair of opposing flexible wings, includes a connecting device at a first end for electrically coupling to the internal electronics module. The flexible wings allow the connector to flex for facilitating connection to the internal electronics module.
  • An electronic device is in communication with the connector. The electronic device is configured to communicate with the internal electronics module when connected to the connector.
  • a controller receives information or sends commands to the electronic device.
  • a communication interface is configured to enable communication between the electronic device and the controller when the connector is coupled to the internal electronics module.
  • the communication interface may comprise a network interface integral with the internal electronics module.
  • the internal electronics module can also include a rechargeable power source. The internal electronics module can be removable from the interactive object for charging the power source. Once the power source is charged, the internal electronics module can then be placed back into the interactive object and electrically coupled to the connector.
  • the internal electronics module can be removably mounted to the sole of a shoe.
  • the electronic device may be a capacitive touch sensor comprising a plurality of conductive threads that are electrically connected to the connector.
  • the connector includes a pair of opposing flexible wings.
  • the flexible wings can be made from an elastomeric material.
  • the flexible wings can be made from a thermoplastic elastomer, such as a thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer or a copolyester elastomer.
  • the flexible wings can be made from a rubber material, such as a natural rubber or synthetic rubber.
  • the flexible wings are formed from a flexible material having a Shore A hardness of from about 60 to about 85, such as from about 65 to about 75.
  • the connecting device of the connector can have a width such that the width of each flexible wing to the width of the connecting device forms a ratio of from about 1 :3 to about 1 : 1.
  • the controller can comprise generally a microprocessor.
  • the controller can comprise a mobile phone or remote computing device.
  • the electronics product includes an electronics module configured to be integrated into an interactive object.
  • the electronics module can include a communication interface configured to enable
  • the electronics module can be configured to be coupled or decoupled from a connector.
  • the connector includes a pair of opposing flexible wings made from an elastomeric material.
  • the connector can be connected to a plurality of electrical wires at one end and can include a connecting device at an opposite end for coupling to the electronics module.
  • An interactive object e.g., a garment
  • An electronics module coupled to the grid of conductive thread.
  • the electronics module includes a first subset of electronic components, such as sensing circuitry configured to detect touch-input to the conductive threads.
  • a separate electronics module that includes a second subset of electronic components (e.g., a
  • microprocessor power source, or network interface
  • the connector enables communication between the two electronics modules when the electronics modules are coupled to the interactive object.
  • the present disclosure is directed to an interactive object that includes a plurality of conductive threads integrated into the interactive object.
  • the conductive threads have a first end and a second end.
  • the conductive threads can be substantially linear and parallel from the first end to the second end.
  • the interactive object can further include an electronics module coupled to the plurality of conductive threads via a flexible connector.
  • the electronics module or a controller can be configured to detect a touch-input when user pressure is applied to the conductive threads.
  • the interactive object for instance, can comprise a wearable garment, such as a shirt, a jacket, or footwear.
  • Fig. 1 is an illustration of an example environment in which an interactive textile with an electronics module can be implemented.
  • Fig. 2 illustrates an example system that includes an interactive object and an electronics module.
  • Fig. 3 illustrates an example of an interactive object with multiple electronics modules in accordance with one or more implementations.
  • Fig. 4 illustrates an example of a connector for connecting a communications module to an interactive object in accordance with one or more implementations.
  • Fig. 5 illustrates an example of an electronics module shown connected to a plurality of conductive threads.
  • Fig. 6 illustrates an electronics module in accordance with one or more implementations.
  • Fig. 7 illustrates various components of an example computing system that can be implemented as any type of client, server, and/or computing device as described with reference to the previous Figs. 1-6 to implement an interactive object with at least one electronics module.
  • Fig. 8 illustrates an electronics module that can be connected and disconnected from a connector.
  • Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 illustrate the electronics module and the connector from Fig. 8 being mounted within the sole of a shoe.
  • Fig. 11, Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 further illustrate the connector and the electronics module.
  • Fig. 14 illustrates the electronics module and a lead in for the connector.
  • Fig. 15A and Fig. 15B illustrate the electronics module being connected to the connector.
  • Fig. 16 illustrates the electronics module showing a USB type C receptacle and different receptacle shapes.
  • Fig. 17 illustrates the connector being directly coupled to electrical wires and including apertures for mounting the connector in an interactive object.
  • Fig. 18 illustrates the electronics module being mounted within an interactive object.
  • Electronics embedded in garments and other objects are becoming increasingly common. Such electronics often need connectivity to external devices for power and/or data transmission.
  • bulky electronic components e.g., batteries, microprocessors, wireless units, and sensors
  • wearable garments such as a shirt, coat, a shoe, or pair of pants.
  • connecting such electronic components to a garment may cause issues with durability since garments are often washed.
  • some electronic components, such as sensing circuity are better equipped to be positioned within the garment.
  • An interactive object that may include at least one electronics module is described.
  • An interactive object e.g., a garment
  • An interactive object includes at least one electronics module containing a first subset of electronic components for the interactive object, and optionally a second electronics module containing a second subset of electronic components for the interactive object.
  • one of the electronics modules may be removably coupled to the interactive object.
  • the interactive object includes an interactive textile with conductive threads woven into the textile to form a flexible touch pad.
  • Sensing circuity is directly coupled to the conductive threads to enable the detection of touch-input to the interactive textile.
  • the electronics module can contain electronic components that are needed to process and communicate the touch-input data, such as a microprocessor, a power source, a network interface, and so forth.
  • the interactive object further includes a communication interface configured to enable communication between the electronics module and a controller, such as a mobile phone.
  • a communication interface configured to enable communication between the electronics module and a controller, such as a mobile phone.
  • the communication interface may be implemented as a part of the electronics module.
  • the electronics module may be configured to be inserted and removed from the interactive object.
  • the electronics module may include a rechargeable power source wherein the electronics module can be removed from the interactive object for charging the power source.
  • the electronics module may include memory and the electronics module can be removed from the interactive object in order to download the memory onto a computing device.
  • the system can further include a flexible connector.
  • the flexible connector can be configured to facilitate coupling and decoupling the electronics module from the interactive object.
  • the connector can include flexible wings that allow the connector to flex during a process by which the electronics module is connected or disconnected from the connector.
  • the connector may include a connecting device, such as a connector plug.
  • the connector plug may be implemented at the electronics module and is configured to connect to the connector receptacle, which may be implemented at the interactive object.
  • the communication interface enables the system to function as a single unit.
  • the power source contained within the electronics module may transfer power, via the communication interface, to an electronic device, such as sensing circuity to enable the sensing circuitry to detect touch-input to the conductive thread.
  • an electronic device such as sensing circuity to enable the sensing circuitry to detect touch-input to the conductive thread.
  • data representative of the touch-input may be communicated, via the communication interface, to the microprocessor contained within the controller.
  • the microprocessor may then analyze the touch-input data to generate one or more control signals, which may then be communicated to an electronic device in the interactive object.
  • Separating the electronics of the interactive object into multiple different modules or into a module and controller provides a variety of different benefits. For example, the system design enables interoperability and customization because the electronics module and a controller. Additionally, by separating the garment embedded electronics from the external electronics module or controller, users, designers and companies are able to design the electronics modules that are specific to the application or the user.
  • separating the electronics enable broken parts to be easily replaced or serviced without the need to replace the entire interactive object.
  • the electronics module can be shipped to a repair service, or a new electronics module can be purchased without the need to purchase a new interactive object.
  • being able to remove the modules from the interactive object ensures that parts such as batteries are not exposed to washing cycles that a typical garment would go through.
  • the electronics module which may include the battery, can easily be removed from the interactive object before washing the interactive object.
  • the manufacturing challenges are significantly simplified and certification processes (such as FCC certification for RF transmission units) can be handled over the part in question, thereby reducing the complexity.
  • FIG. 1 is an illustration of an example environment 100 in which an interactive object with at least one electronics module can be implemented.
  • Environment 100 includes an electronic device, such as an interactive textile 102, which is shown as being integrated within various interactive objects 104.
  • Interactive textile 102 can be a textile that is configured to sense multi-touch-input.
  • a textile corresponds to any type of flexible woven material consisting of a network of natural or artificial fibers, often referred to as thread or yarn. Textiles may be formed by weaving, knitting, crocheting, knotting, pressing threads together or consolidating fibers or filaments together in a nonwoven manner.
  • interactive objects 104 include "flexible" objects, such as a shirt 104-1, a hat 104-2, a handbag 104-3 and a shoe 104-6. It is to be noted, however, that interactive textile 102 may be integrated within any type of flexible object made from fabric or a similar flexible material, such as garments or articles of clothing, blankets, shower curtains, towels, sheets, bed spreads, or fabric casings of furniture, to name just a few.
  • Interactive textile 102 may be integrated within flexible objects 104 in a variety of different ways, including weaving, sewing, gluing, and so forth.
  • objects 104 further include "hard” objects, such as a plastic cup 104-4 and a hard smart phone casing 104-5.
  • hard objects 104 may include any type of "hard” or “rigid” object made from non-flexible or semi-flexible materials, such as plastic, metal, aluminum, and so on.
  • hard objects 104 may also include plastic chairs, water bottles, plastic balls, shoe soles, or car parts, to name just a few.
  • Interactive textile 102 may be integrated within hard objects 104 using a variety of different manufacturing processes. In one or more implementations, injection molding is used to integrate interactive textiles 102 into hard objects 104.
  • Interactive textile 102 is an electronics device that enables a user to control object 104 that the interactive textile 102 is integrated with, or to control a variety of other computing devices 106 via a network 108.
  • Computing devices 106 are controllers illustrated with various non-limiting example devices: server 106-1, smart phone 106-2, laptop 106-3, computing spectacles 106-4, television 106-5, camera 106-6, tablet 106-7, desktop 106-8, and smart watch 106-9, though other devices may also be used, such as home automation and control systems, sound or entertainment systems, home appliances, security systems, netbooks, and ereaders.
  • computing device 106 can be wearable (e.g., computing spectacles and smart watches), non-wearable but mobile (e.g., laptops and tablets), or relatively immobile (e.g., desktops and servers).
  • Network 108 includes one or more of many types of wireless or partly wireless communication networks, such as a local-area-network (LAN), a wireless local-area-network (WLAN), a personal-area-network (PAN), a wide-area-network (WAN), an intranet, the Internet, a peer-to-peer network, point-to-point network, a mesh network, and so forth.
  • LAN local-area-network
  • WLAN wireless local-area-network
  • PAN personal-area-network
  • WAN wide-area-network
  • intranet the Internet
  • peer-to-peer network point-to-point network
  • mesh network and so forth.
  • Interactive textile 102 can interact with computing devices 106 by transmitting touch data through network 108.
  • Computing device 106 uses the touch data to control computing device 106 or applications at computing device 106.
  • interactive textile 102 integrated at shirt 104-1 may be configured to control or be controlled by the user's smart phone 106-2 in the user's pocket, television 106-5 in the user's home, smart watch 106-9 on the user's wrist, or various other appliances in the user's house, such as thermostats, lights, music, and so forth.
  • the user may be able to swipe up or down on interactive textile 102 integrated within the user's shirt 104-1 to cause the volume on television 106-5 to go up or down, to cause the temperature controlled by a thermostat in the user's house to increase or decrease, or to turn on and off lights in the user's house.
  • any type of touch, tap, swipe, hold, or stroke gesture may be recognized by interactive textile 102.
  • FIG. 2 illustrates an example system 200 that includes an interactive object and multiple electronics modules.
  • interactive textile 102 is integrated in an object 104, which may be implemented as a flexible object (e.g., shirt 104-1, hat 104-2, or handbag 104-3) or a hard object (e.g., plastic cup 104-4 or smart phone casing 104-5).
  • a flexible object e.g., shirt 104-1, hat 104-2, or handbag 104-3
  • a hard object e.g., plastic cup 104-4 or smart phone casing 104-5.
  • Interactive textile 102 is configured to sense multi-touch-input from a user when one or more fingers of the user's hand touch interactive textile 102.
  • Interactive textile 102 may also be configured to sense full-hand touch-input from a user, such as when an entire hand of the user touches or swipes interactive textile 102.
  • interactive textile 102 includes conductive threads 202, which are woven into interactive textile 102 (e.g., in a grid, array or parallel pattern).
  • the conductive threads 202 do not alter the flexibility of interactive textile 102, which enables interactive textile 102 to be easily integrated within interactive objects 104.
  • Interactive object 104 includes interactive textile 102 that includes conductive threads 202 and sensing circuitry 210.
  • the conductive threads or wires 202 can be coupled to a connector 208 that is then coupled to the electronics module 206.
  • the electronics module 206 may optionally include a microprocessor 212, a rechargeable power source 214, and a network interface 216. Through the network interface 216, the electronics module 206 can communicate with a controller.
  • the controller can receive information from the interactive textile 102 or can control and send commands to the interactive textile 102.
  • Wires from the conductive threads 202 may be connected to sensing circuitry 210 using flexible PCB, creping, gluing with conductive glue, soldering, and so forth.
  • the sensing circuitry 210 can be configured to detect a user-inputted touch-input on the conductive threads that is pre-programmed to indicate a certain request.
  • sensing circuitry 210 can be configured to also detect the location of the touch-input on conductive thread 202, as well as motion of the touch-input.
  • the position of the touch can be determined by sensing circuitry 210 by detecting a change in capacitance on the grid or array of conductive thread 202.
  • the touch-input may then be used to generate touch data usable to control computing device 106.
  • the touch-input can be used to determine various gestures, such as single-finger touches (e.g., touches, taps, and holds), multi-finger touches (e.g., two-finger touches, two-finger taps, two-finger holds, and pinches), single-finger and multi-finger swipes (e.g., swipe up, swipe down, swipe left, swipe right), and full-hand interactions (e.g., touching the textile with a user's entire hand, covering textile with the user's entire hand, pressing the textile with the user's entire hand, palm touches, and rolling, twisting, or rotating the user's hand while touching the textile).
  • single-finger touches e.g., touches, taps, and holds
  • multi-finger touches e.g., two-finger touches, two-finger taps, two-finger holds, and pinches
  • single-finger and multi-finger swipes e.g., swipe up, swipe down, swipe left, swipe right
  • Connector 208 enables the transfer of power and data (e.g., the touch-input detected by sensing circuity 210) between the electronics module 206 and the interactive textile or electronics device 102.
  • connector 208 includes a connector plug or a connector receptacle.
  • a connector plug may be coupled to the electronics module 206 and is configured to connect to a receptacle on the electronics module 206.
  • the electronics module 206 includes a microprocessor 212, power source 214, and network interface 216.
  • Power source 214 may be coupled, via connector 208, to sensing circuitry 210 to provide power to sensing circuitry 210 to enable the detection of touch-input, and may be implemented as a small battery.
  • sensing circuitry 210 When touch-input is detected by sensing circuity 210, data representative of the touch-input may be communicated, via connector 208, to microprocessor 212 of the electronics module 206.
  • Microprocessor 212 may then analyze the touch-input data to generate one or more control signals, which may then be communicated to a controller, such as a computing device 106 (e.g., a smart phone) via the network interface 216 to cause the computing device 106 to initiate a particular functionality.
  • a controller such as a computing device 106 (e.g., a smart phone) via the network interface 216 to cause the computing device 106 to initiate a particular functionality.
  • network interfaces 216 are configured to communicate data, such as touch data, over wired, wireless, or optical networks to computing devices 106.
  • network interfaces 216 may communicate data over a local-area- network (LAN), a wireless local-area-network (WLAN), a personal-area-network (PAN) (e.g., BluetoothTM), a wide-area-network (WAN), an intranet, the Internet, a peer-to-peer network, point-to-point network, a mesh network, and the like (e.g., through network 108 of Fig. 1).
  • LAN local-area- network
  • WLAN wireless local-area-network
  • PAN personal-area-network
  • WAN wide-area-network
  • intranet the Internet
  • peer-to-peer network point-to-point network
  • mesh network e.g., through network 108 of Fig. 1
  • electronics module 206 and interactive textile 102 are illustrated and described as including specific electronic components, it is to be appreciated that these devices may be configured in a variety of different ways.
  • Electronics module 206 may include electronic components other that those illustrated in Fig. 2, such as sensors, light sources (e.g., LED's), displays, speakers, and so forth.
  • the interactive textile 102 can be replaced by other sensors, light sources, displays, speakers and so forth.
  • the controller or computing device 106 can be used to control an electronic device that has been coupled to the electronics module 206 by the connector 208.
  • Fig. 3 illustrates an example 300 of interactive object 104 with multiple electronics modules in accordance with one or more implementations.
  • interactive textile 102 of the interactive object 104 includes non-conductive threads 302 woven with conductive threads 202 to form interactive textile 102.
  • Non-conductive threads 302 may correspond to any type of non-conductive thread, fiber, or fabric, such as cotton, wool, silk, nylon, polyester, and so forth.
  • Conductive thread 202 includes a conductive wire or a plurality of conductive filaments that are twisted, braided, or wrapped with a flexible thread. As shown, the conductive thread 202 can be woven with an integrated with the non-conductive threads 302 to form a fabric or a textile.
  • conductive thread 202 includes a thin copper wire. It is to be noted, however, that the conductive thread 202 may also be implemented using other materials, such as silver, gold, or other materials coated with a conductive polymer.
  • the conductive thread 202 may include an outer cover layer formed by braiding together non-conductive threads.
  • the non-conductive threads may be implemented as any type of flexible thread or fiber, such as cotton, wool, silk, nylon, polyester, and so forth.
  • Interactive textile 102 can be formed cheaply and efficiently, using any conventional weaving process (e.g., jacquard weaving or 3D-weaving), which involves interlacing a set of longer threads (called the warp) with a set of crossing threads (called the weft).
  • Weaving may be implemented on a frame or machine known as a loom, of which there are a number of types.
  • a loom can weave non-conductive threads 302 with conductive threads 202 to create interactive textile 102.
  • the conductive threads 202 can be woven into the textile 102 in any suitable pattern or array.
  • the conductive threads 202 may form a single series of parallel threads.
  • the capacitive touch sensor may comprise a single plurality of parallel conductive threads conveniently located on the interactive object, such as on the sleeve of a jacket.
  • the conductive threads 202 may form a grid as shown in FIG. 3.
  • conductive thread 202 is woven into interactive textile 102 to form a grid that includes a set of substantially parallel conductive threads 202 and a second set of substantially parallel conductive threads 202 that crosses the first set of conductive threads to form the grid.
  • the first set of conductive threads 202 are oriented horizontally and the second set of conductive threads 202 are oriented vertically, such that the first set of conductive threads 202 are positioned substantially orthogonal to the second set of conductive threads 202.
  • conductive threads 202 may be oriented such that crossing conductive threads 202 are not orthogonal to each other.
  • crossing conductive threads 202 may form a diamond-shaped grid. While conductive threads 202 are illustrated as being spaced out from each other in Fig. 3, it is to be noted that conductive threads 202 may be weaved very closely together. For example, in some cases two or three conductive threads may be weaved closely together in each direction. Further, in some cases the conductive threads may be oriented as parallel sensing lines that do not cross or intersect with each other.
  • sensing circuity 210 is shown as being integrated within object 104, and is directly connected to conductive threads 202. During operation, sensing circuitry 210 can determine positions of touch-input on the grid of conductive thread 202 using self- capacitance sensing or projective capacitive sensing.
  • sensing circuitry 210 charges crossing conductive threads 202 (e.g., horizontal and vertical conductive threads) by applying a control signal (e.g., a sine signal) to each conductive thread 202.
  • a control signal e.g., a sine signal
  • the conductive threads 202 that are touched are grounded, which changes the capacitance (e.g., increases or decreases the capacitance) on the touched conductive threads 202.
  • Sensing circuitry 210 uses the change in capacitance to identify the presence of the object. To do so, sensing circuitry 210 detects a position of the touch-input by detecting which horizontal conductive thread 202 is touched, and which vertical conductive thread 202 is touched by detecting changes in capacitance of each respective conductive thread 202. Sensing circuitry 210 uses the intersection of the crossing conductive threads 202 that are touched to determine the position of the touch-input on the grid of conductive threads 202. For example, sensing circuitry 210 can determine touch data by determining the position of each touch as X,Y coordinates on the grid of conductive thread 202.
  • sensing circuitry 210 When implemented as a self-capacitance sensor, “ghosting" may occur when multi-touch-input is received. Consider, for example, that a user touches the grid of conductive thread 202 with two fingers. When this occurs, sensing circuitry 210 determines X and Y coordinates for each of the two touches. However, sensing circuitry 210 may be unable to determine how to match each X coordinate to its corresponding Y coordinate. For example, if a first touch has the coordinates XI, Yl and a second touch has the coordinates X4,Y4, sensing circuitry 210 may also detect "ghost" coordinates XI, Y4 and X4,Y1.
  • sensing circuitry 210 is configured to detect "areas" of touch-input corresponding to two or more touch-input points on the grid of conductive thread 202.
  • Conductive threads 202 may be weaved closely together such that when an object touches the grid of conductive thread 202, the capacitance will be changed for multiple horizontal conductive threads 202 and/or multiple vertical conductive threads 202.
  • a single touch with a single finger may generate the coordinates XI, Yl and X2,Y1.
  • sensing circuitry 210 may be configured to detect touch-input if the capacitance is changed for multiple horizontal conductive threads 202 and/or multiple vertical conductive threads 202. Note that this removes the effect of ghosting because sensing circuitry 210 will not detect touch-input if two single-point touches are detected which are spaced apart.
  • sensing circuitry 210 charges a single set of conductive threads 202 (e.g., horizontal conductive threads 202) by applying a control signal (e.g., a sine signal) to the single set of conductive threads 202. Then, sensing circuitry 210 senses changes in capacitance in the other set of conductive threads 202 (e.g., vertical conductive threads 202).
  • vertical conductive threads 202 are not charged and thus act as a virtual ground. However, when horizontal conductive threads 202 are charged, the horizontal conductive threads capacitively couple to vertical conductive threads 202.
  • Sensing circuitry 210 uses the change in capacitance on vertical conductive threads 202 to identify the presence of the object. To do so, sensing circuitry 210 detects a position of the touch-input by scanning vertical conductive threads 202 to detect changes in capacitance. Sensing circuitry 210 determines the position of the touch-input as the intersection point between the vertical conductive thread 202 with the changed capacitance, and the horizontal conductive thread 202 on which the control signal was transmitted. For example, sensing circuitry 210 can determine touch data by determining the position of each touch as X,Y coordinates on the grid of conductive thread 202.
  • the conductive thread 202 and sensing circuitry 210 is configured to communicate the touch data that is representative of the detected touch-input to electronics module 206, which is removably coupled to interactive object 104 via connector 208.
  • the microprocessor 212 may then cause communication of the touch data, via network interface 216, to computing device 106 to enable the device to determine gestures based on the touch data, which can be used to control object 104, computing device 106, or applications implemented at computing device 106.
  • the computing device 106 can be implemented to recognize a variety of different types of gestures, such as touches, taps, swipes, holds, and covers made to interactive textile 102.
  • the computing device can be configured to determine a duration of the touch, swipe, or hold (e.g., one second or two seconds), a number of the touches, swipes, or holds (e.g., a single tap, a double tap, or a triple tap), a number of fingers of the touch, swipe, or hold (e.g., a one finger-touch or swipe, a two-finger touch or swipe, or a three-finger touch or swipe), a frequency of the touch, and a dynamic direction of a touch or swipe (e.g., up, down, left, right).
  • a duration of the touch, swipe, or hold e.g., one second or two seconds
  • a number of the touches, swipes, or holds e.g., a single tap, a double tap, or a triple tap
  • the computing device 106 can also determine an area of the grid of conductive thread 202 that is being held (e.g., top, bottom, left, right, or top and bottom. Thus, the computing device 106 can recognize a variety of different types of holds, such as a cover, a cover and hold, a five finger hold, a five finger cover and hold, a three finger pinch and hold, and so forth.
  • connector 208 is configured to connect electronics module 206 to a second electronics module 204 of interactive object 104.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates an example 400 of a connector for connecting an external communications module to an interactive object in accordance with one or more implementations.
  • interactive object 104 is illustrated as a jacket.
  • interactive object 104 includes a second electronics module or electronic device 204 which include various types of electronics, such as sensing circuitry 210, sensors (e.g., capacitive touch sensors woven into the garment, microphones, or accelerometers), output devices (e.g., LEDs, speakers, or micro-displays), electrical circuitry, and so forth.
  • the interactive textile 102 can be replaced by the second electronics module or electronic device 204.
  • Electronics module 206 which is also shown in FIG. 6 includes various electronics that are configured to connect and/or interface with the electronics of the second electronics module 204.
  • the electronics contained within electronics module 206 are different than those contained within electronics module 204, and may include electronics such as microprocessor 212, power source 214 (e.g., a battery), network interface 216 (e.g., Bluetooth or WiFi), sensors (e.g., accelerometers, heart rate monitors, or pedometers), output devices (e.g., speakers, LEDs), and so forth.
  • power source 214 e.g., a battery
  • network interface 216 e.g., Bluetooth or WiFi
  • sensors e.g., accelerometers, heart rate monitors, or pedometers
  • output devices e.g., speakers, LEDs
  • electronics module 206 is implemented as a strap that contains the various electronics.
  • the strap for example, can be formed from a material such as rubber, nylon, or any other type of fabric.
  • electronics module 206 may take any type of form.
  • electronics module 206 could resemble a circular or square piece of material (e.g., rubber or nylon).
  • the second electronics module 204 is shown in more detail.
  • the electronics module 204 can be located on the interior of the sleeve as shown in FIG. 4 and attached to connector receptacle 406.
  • the conductive threads 202 are also illustrated.
  • the conductive threads 202 are substantially linear from end to end and form a parallel array.
  • the second electronics module 204 includes, in one embodiment, a plurality of electrical contact pads 218.
  • the electrical contact pads 218 are spaced sequentially along the width of a flexible substrate 220.
  • the flexible substrate and the electrical contact pads may comprise a flexible printed circuit board.
  • the printed circuit board can include a first portion containing the electrical contact pads and a second portion 222 that is in communication with the electrical contact pads.
  • the second portion 222 may comprise a microprocessor, a network interface, one or more sensors, output devices, and the like.
  • the conductive threads 202 are generally in a parallel arrangement. Each conductive thread 202 is connected to a separate and corresponding electrical contact pad 218.
  • the second electronics module 204 can include a receptacle 406 that can be used to communicate with the electronics module 206 as shown in FIG. 4.
  • connector 402 includes the connector plug 404 and a connector receptacle 406.
  • connector plug 404 is positioned on electronics module 206 and is configured to attach to connector receptacle 406, which is positioned on interactive object 104, to form an electronic connection between the electronics module 206 and interactive object 104.
  • connector receptacle 406 is positioned on a sleeve of interactive object 104, which is illustrated as a jacket.
  • the jacket can include a small pocket or opening that can receive the second end of the electronics module 206.
  • Fig. 7 illustrates various components of an example computing system 700 that can be implemented as any type of client, server, and/or computing device as described with reference to the previous Figs. 1-6 to implement an interactive object with at least one electronics module.
  • computing system 700 may correspond to electronics module 206 and/or embedded in interactive object 104.
  • computing system 700 can be implemented as one or a combination of a wired and/or wireless wearable device, System-on-Chip (SoC), and/or as another type of device or portion thereof.
  • SoC System-on-Chip
  • Computing system 700 may also be associated with a user (e.g., a person) and/or an entity that operates the device such that a device describes logical devices that include users, software, firmware, and/or a combination of devices.
  • Computing system 700 includes communication devices 702 that enable wired and/or wireless communication of device data 704 (e.g., received data, data that is being received, data scheduled for broadcast, data packets of the data, etc.).
  • Device data 704 or other device content can include configuration settings of the device, media content stored on the device, and/or information associated with a user of the device.
  • Media content stored on computing system 700 can include any type of audio, video, and/or image data.
  • Computing system 700 includes one or more data inputs 706 via which any type of data, media content, and/or inputs can be received, such as human utterances, user-selectable inputs (explicit or implicit), messages, music, television media content, recorded video content, and any other type of audio, video, and/or image data received from any content and/or data source.
  • data inputs 706 via which any type of data, media content, and/or inputs can be received, such as human utterances, user-selectable inputs (explicit or implicit), messages, music, television media content, recorded video content, and any other type of audio, video, and/or image data received from any content and/or data source.
  • Computing system 700 also includes communication interfaces 708, which can be implemented as any one or more of a serial and/or parallel interface, a wireless interface, any type of network interface, a modem, and as any other type of communication interface.
  • communication interfaces 708, can be implemented as any one or more of a serial and/or parallel interface, a wireless interface, any type of network interface, a modem, and as any other type of communication interface.
  • Communication interfaces 708 provide a connection and/or communication links between computing system 700 and a communication network by which other electronic, computing, and communication devices communicate data with computing system 700.
  • Computing system 700 includes one or more processors 710 (e.g., any of microprocessors, controllers, and the like), which process various computer-executable instructions to control the operation of computing system 700 and to enable techniques for, or in which can be embodied, interactive textiles.
  • processors 710 e.g., any of microprocessors, controllers, and the like
  • computing system 700 can be implemented with any one or combination of hardware, firmware, or fixed logic circuitry that is implemented in connection with processing and control circuits which are generally identified at 712.
  • computing system 700 can include a system bus or data transfer system that couples the various components within the device.
  • a system bus can include any one or combination of different bus structures, such as a memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus, a universal serial bus, and/or a processor or local bus that utilizes any of a variety of bus architectures.
  • Computing system 700 also includes computer-readable media 714, such as one or more memory devices that enable persistent and/or non-transitory data storage (i.e., in contrast to mere signal transmission), examples of which include random access memory (RAM), non-volatile memory (e.g., any one or more of a read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, EPROM, EEPROM, etc.), and a disk storage device.
  • RAM random access memory
  • non-volatile memory e.g., any one or more of a read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, EPROM, EEPROM, etc.
  • a disk storage device may be implemented as any type of magnetic or optical storage device, such as a hard disk drive, a recordable and/or rewriteable compact disc (CD), any type of a digital versatile disc (DVD), and the like.
  • Computing system 700 can also include a mass storage media device 716.
  • Computer-readable media 714 provides data storage mechanisms to store device data 704, as well as various device applications 718 and any other types of information and/or data related to operational aspects of computing system 700.
  • an operating system 720 can be maintained as a computer application with computer-readable media 714 and executed on processors 710.
  • Device applications 718 may include a device manager, such as any form of a control application, software application, signal-processing and control module, code that is native to a particular device, a hardware abstraction layer for a particular device, and so on.
  • Device applications 718 also include any system components, engines, or managers to implement an interactive object with multiple electronics modules.
  • the present disclosure is directed to a small form factor wearable electronic product that can be used to enable the interactive objects, such as garments, described above.
  • the wearable electronic product can include a flexible connection that can be easily connected to an electronic module.
  • the electronic product can be configured to fit into the sole of a shoe.
  • the electronic product can include flexible wing connectors that include a plurality of conductive yarns, threads, or wires at one end and can be adapted to be attached to an electronics module at an opposite end.
  • the connector is rigid in one direction needed for making a connection with the electronic module but flexible for allowing an electronics module to be safely inserted at different angles.
  • the interactive object can include an electronics module that is intended to be removed and inserted into the interactive object.
  • the electronics module may include a rechargeable power source. In order to recharge the power source, the electronics module may need to be removed from the interactive object.
  • a connector is needed that facilitates coupling and decoupling with the electronics module.
  • a flexible connector is used that includes flexible wings. The wings are made from an elastomeric material that allows the connector to flex and facilitate coupling and decoupling to the electronics module.
  • the connector connects to the electronics module.
  • the connector can be connected more permanently to an electronic device.
  • the electronic device may comprise the interactive textile 102 as described with respect to Figs. 1-6.
  • the interactive textile 102 can also include an output device such as lights, speakers, or a microdisplay.
  • the flexible connector of the present disclosure can be permanently connected to an output device without the use of the interactive textile.
  • a controller can send commands to the electronics module for controlling the output device via the flexible connector.
  • a flexible connector 800 made in accordance with the present disclosure is shown in Fig. 8.
  • the flexible connector 800 can be used, for instance, to connect the electronics module 206 to the touch sensor as shown in Fig. 4.
  • the flexible connector can replace the plug 404 and the receptacle 406 and provide a different connection with greater flexibility in some applications.
  • the electronic product 800 includes a flexible connector 802 and an electronics module 804.
  • the flexible connector 802 includes a plurality of conductive wires, threads or yarns 810 at one end and at the other end an attachment or connecting device 812 for making an electrical connection with the electronics module 804.
  • the flexible connector 802 further includes a pair of opposing flexible wings 814 and 816 positioned on opposite sides of the connector 812.
  • the flexible wings 814 and 816 are made from an elastomeric material that allows the connector 802 to flex when being connected and disconnected from the electronics module 804.
  • the flexible wings 814 and 816 in one embodiment, can be made from a material having a particular durometer.
  • the flexible wings 814 and 816 can be made from a material that has a Shore A hardness of generally greater than about 50, such as greater than about 55, such as greater than about 60, such as greater than about 65, and generally less than about 95, such as less than about 90, such as less than about 85, such as less than about 80, such as less than about 75.
  • the flexible wings 814 and 816 can be made from a thermoplastic elastomer.
  • the thermoplastic elastomer may comprise a thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer or a copolyester elastomer.
  • the flexible wings 814 and 816 can be made from a natural or synthetic rubber.
  • rubber materials that can be used include butadiene rubbers such as styrene-butadiene rubbers.
  • Other materials that can be used to produce the flexible wings 814 and 816 include silicone rubbers and rubbers made from block copolymers, such as styrenic block copolymers.
  • the connecting device 812 has a width and the flexible wings 814 and 816 extend beyond the width of the connecting device.
  • the width of the flexible wings 814 and 816 can depend upon various configurations and geometries.
  • the ratio of the width of each flexible wing to the width of the connecting device 812 can be generally greater than about 1 :5, such as greater than about 1 :3, such as greater than about 1 :2, such as greater than about 1 : 1.5.
  • the ratio is generally less than about 4: 1, such as less than about 3 : 1, such as less than about 2: 1, such as less than about 1 : 1.
  • the ratio can be from about 1 :3 to about 1 : 1, such as from about 1 :2 to about 1 : 1.25.
  • the flexible connector 802 can further include at least one attachment device, such as a pair of attachment devices 818 and 820 located on each respective flexible wing 814 and 816.
  • the attachment devices 818 and 820 can be for securing the flexible connector 802 onto an interactive object.
  • the flexible connector 802 can be secured to a rigid surface or structure and still have sufficient maneuverability to allow for the connector to connect to the electronics module 804.
  • the flexible connector 802 and the electronics module 804 are shown being mounted within the sole of a shoe.
  • the attachment devices 818 and 820 comprise apertures that may engage two corresponding pins on the sole of the footwear for holding the connector 802 in place.
  • the connector is flexible allowing the electronics module 804 to connect to the connector 802 at different angles as shown in Figs. 13, 15 A, and 15B.
  • the electronics module 804 may be designed to be removable from the interactive object, such as the sole of the shoe.
  • the electronics module 804 may be removable in order to charge the device, update the software, download information on the device, or the like.
  • the flexible connector 802 not only secures the conductive wires 810 within the interactive object but also facilitates coupling and decoupling to the electronics module 804.
  • the electronics module 804 can include a custom lead in for connection as shown in Fig. 14 or can include a conventional lead in such as a USB type C.
  • the flexible connector 802 includes more than one aperture 818 and 820 located along the corresponding flexible wings 814 and 816. As described above, the apertures 818 and 820 are configured to receive corresponding pins for mounting the flexible connector 802 to the interactive object.
  • the electronics module 804 can have any purpose as described above with respect to any of the other electronics modules described.
  • the electronics module 804 includes a receptacle 830 configured to receive the connecting device 812 of the flexible connector 802.
  • the shape of the receptacle 830 can vary. For instance, a complex shape can be used to ensure a better connection between the flexible connector 802 and the electronics module 804.
  • the electronics module 804 can include one or more rechargeable batteries 832 and 834.
  • the electronics module 804 further includes a front end 850 located opposite the receptacle end 830.
  • the front end 850 includes a pair of opposing inclined surfaces 840 and 842.
  • the inclined surfaces 840 and 842 can be used to facilitate insertion and removal of the electronics module 804 into an interactive object.
  • the electronics module 804 is shown being mounted on an interactive object and connected to a connecting device 812 of the flexible connector 802. As shown, the inclined surface 842 facilitates mounting of the electronics module 804 into the interactive object, especially when the interactive object has a rigid structure.
  • the electronic products as shown in Figs. 8-18 can be modified and include variations. It should be understood that an electronics product can be connected to any suitable object and is not limited for use in shoes. For instance, the electronic product can be incorporated into other clothing, such as jackets, shirts, pants, and the like.
  • the electronics module can include a LiPo battery for space savings of the device.
  • the connector can allow for charging in addition to connecting to other devices within a garment.
  • the electronics module and/or connector can be sealed for moisture, especially if a non-battery replaceable is used.
  • the housing for instance, can be ultrasonically welded or coin cells can be used.
  • the connector can be mid-mounted in order to use a two sided PCB. This will also save on space requirements.
  • the wires, threads or yarns can be stripped for any suitable purpose.
  • the receptacle is insert-molded/sealed.
  • the receptacle can also take the vertical and small horizontal loads in the thermoplastic elastomer housing and wires.
  • the device may include a seal and a generous lead-in between plug and receptacle.
  • the product can be moisture resistant and can remain functional even when exposed to moisture.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Microelectronics & Electronic Packaging (AREA)
  • Computer Hardware Design (AREA)
  • Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
  • Human Computer Interaction (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Toys (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention porte sur un objet interactif ayant au moins un module électronique et un élément de raccordement flexible.
PCT/US2018/031763 2017-05-10 2018-05-09 Intégration d'élément de raccordement pour des objets dont un article chaussant WO2018208891A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US201762504224P 2017-05-10 2017-05-10
US62/504,224 2017-05-10

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WO2018208891A1 true WO2018208891A1 (fr) 2018-11-15

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US20120234111A1 (en) * 2008-06-13 2012-09-20 Nike, Inc. Footwear Having Sensor System
US9192816B2 (en) * 2011-02-17 2015-11-24 Nike, Inc. Footwear having sensor system
CA2985084A1 (fr) * 2015-05-22 2016-12-01 Schawbel Technologies Llc Semelle interieure chauffee comprenant un ensemble amovible
US9597497B2 (en) * 2011-10-27 2017-03-21 Salisbury Nhs Foundation Trust Wireless footswitch and functional electrical stimulation apparatus

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US20120234111A1 (en) * 2008-06-13 2012-09-20 Nike, Inc. Footwear Having Sensor System
KR20120007675A (ko) * 2010-07-15 2012-01-25 황동순 알 에프 리모컨 조작 발열 깔창
US9192816B2 (en) * 2011-02-17 2015-11-24 Nike, Inc. Footwear having sensor system
US9597497B2 (en) * 2011-10-27 2017-03-21 Salisbury Nhs Foundation Trust Wireless footswitch and functional electrical stimulation apparatus
CA2985084A1 (fr) * 2015-05-22 2016-12-01 Schawbel Technologies Llc Semelle interieure chauffee comprenant un ensemble amovible

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2022214581A1 (fr) 2021-04-07 2022-10-13 Zhor Tech Système de chargement de batterie pour accessoire pour chaussure, chaussure comprenant un accessoire pour chaussure et base de chargement d'une telle chaussure
FR3121581A1 (fr) 2021-04-07 2022-10-14 Zhor Tech Système de chargement de batterie pour accessoire pour chaussure, chaussure comprenant un accessoire pour chaussure et base de chargement d’une telle chaussure

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