Samsung files patent for glass type wearable device

Samsung Electronics has filed a patent application for a ‘Glass type wearable device’ that will enable users to interact with 3D images in mid-air to dial phone numbers, send SMS text messages and even play a virtual piano keyboard, IBTimes reported.

It includes “an image sensor configured to sense a gesture image of a user setting a user input region, and a display configured to provide a virtual input interface corresponding to the user input region set by using the sensed gesture image”. The patent application describes a Google Glass-like device with two cameras that project 3D images only the user can see.

The images included in the patent application suggest that the device would enable a user to project phone’s key pad on his/her hand, held 10cm away from the glasses, and by pressing the required numbers, the smartphone could be triggered to make a call.

The glasses could also project a virtual piano on to a desk and the user would be able to play virtual keys. Moreover, while reading a book, the wearable device would also enable a user to store important information easily using a virtual notepad.

The application says that “the virtual input interface may be realized in any one of various forms, and for example, the virtual input interface may be a keyboard (such as a QWERTY keyboard or a portable terminal keyboard), a memo pad, a game controller, a calculator, a piano keyboard, a drum, or a dial pad, but is not limited thereto.”

The image sensor may detect movement of an input tool. Here, the input tool may be a pre-set tool, such as a pen, a finger, a stylus and a stick, but are not limited thereto.

"A current input method of smart glasses is limited. A user basically controls the smart glasses by using a voice command. However, it is difficult for the user to control the smart glasses by using only a voice command if a text input is required. Thus a wearable system that provides various input interaction methods is required," the patent application read.

The ideas put forth in the patent application clearly show Samsung’s efforts and dedication to take innovation to the next level. When this idea will shape into reality is hard to say, but when it does, it will definitely be a big leap into the future.