“Smart Glasses: Balancing Innovation and Privacy"

Abstract

This invention pertains to privacy-focused smart glasses that provide an innovative solution for balancing technological advancements with robust privacy protections. These smart glasses are equipped with a modular design that enables users to add, remove, or disable key components, such as cameras, microphones, and sensors, to suit various privacy needs. The glasses incorporate biometric authentication for secure access, transparency indicators to inform users and bystanders of data collection status, and a control interface for managing granular data settings. With a privacy-by-design software framework, end-to-end encryption, and user-controlled data deletion options, the smart glasses offer comprehensive control over data collection, processing, and transmission. This approach ensures enhanced privacy and security, fostering greater social acceptance of wearable technology by addressing privacy concerns proactively.

Specification

Description:
Field of the invention:
[001] The field of this invention encompasses wearable computing, specifically focusing on smart glasses that integrate advanced technologies such as augmented reality, real-time data processing, and multiple sensor systems. These devices aim to enhance human experiences and productivity by providing real-time information, seamless communication, and various interactive capabilities directly within the user's line of sight. However, due to their extensive data collection and surveillance potential, smart glasses sit at the intersection of technological innovation and privacy ethics. This field requires a careful balance of design, legal, and ethical considerations to protect user privacy while advancing functionality. The invention addresses these challenges by proposing privacy-centric design approaches, regulatory considerations, and ethical guidelines that prioritize transparency, user consent, and security.
Background of the invention and related prior Art:
[002] The invention of smart glasses emerges from the broader evolution of wearable technology and the increasing demand for seamless, real-time interaction with digital information. As smart phones and other portable devices have become integral to daily life, the push toward hands-free, immersive devices has grown, leading to the development of smart glasses with capabilities such as augmented reality, biometric tracking, and voice-activated commands. However, these innovations bring new privacy and security concerns due to the continuous and often passive data collection enabled by features like cameras, microphones, and GPS. Early smart glasses faced public backlash for privacy risks, prompting the need for designs that respect user consent and data security while maintaining advanced functionality. The current invention seeks to bridge this gap by balancing technological advancement with robust privacy measures, creating a solution that enhances user experience without compromising individual privacy.
[003] A patent document US20230194891A1 discloses a method for making smart glasses that includes obtaining a temple pre-form made as a one-piece seamless shell structure with shell walls enclosing a hollow compartment. An opening at one end of the one-piece seamless shell structure provides physical access to insides of the hollow compartment. The method further includes disposing one or more smart glasses components in the hollow compartment through the opening in the shell structure, and attaching the temple pre-form with the one or more smart glasses components disposed in the hollow compartment to a frame of the smart glasses.
[004] Another patent document US10788686B2 discloses an eye-protective shade for the Augmented Reality (AR) smart glasses , including: an eye protection unit disposed in front of the AR smart glasses, wherein the eye protection unit is disposed with a pair of shading portions capable of filtering light, and the pair of the shading portions respectively correspond to a pair of semitransparent display portions disposed on the AR smart glasses, and the pair of shading portions are made of translucent material and/or opaque material; when reading digital information by use of the eye-protective shade along with the AR smart glasses, the eye-protective shade protects the user's eyeballs and the macula from direct light radiation while the peripheral retina is continuously in contact with external light sources.
[005] A document TW201443510A discloses a smart glass, which comprises a glass. The glass comprises a lens, an adhesive layer and an OLED unit. The adhesive layer is disposed on the lens. The OLED unit is attached to the lens via the adhesive layer. The adhesive layer is sandwiched between the OLED unit and the lens. The OLED unit provides an image, and the image passes through the adhesive layer and the lens to be received by the eye of user.
[006] Another document CN104777613B discloses a kind of glasses display device and augmented reality display methods are disclosed, the glasses display device includes：Transparent display layer, for display image, wherein, the image virtual image that human eye is experienced has first size and positioned at the opening position with the glasses display device away from the first distance；And controllable light shield layer, it is stacked with the transparent display layer, for controlling the transit dose from least part light with the glasses display device in the range of the first size of the opening position of first distance. By control be derived from real scene with shown digital object corresponding to the corresponding position of the virtual image light transit dose, and reduce influence of the light from real scene to the viewing effect of shown digital object, improve augmented reality display effect.
[007] A patent document US12096176B2 discloses a pair of smart glasses. The pair of smart glasses may include a frame, one or more lenses, and one or more temples. The pair of smart glasses may further include at least one microphone array, a noise reduction device, at least one low-frequency acoustic driver, at least one high-frequency acoustic driver, and a controller. The at least one microphone array may be configured to generate sub-band voice signals. The noise reduction device may be configured to generate a noise correction signal based on each of the sub-band voice signal and generate a sub-band correction signal based on the noise correction signal and the sub-band voice signal. The controller may be configured to direct the low-frequency acoustic driver to output the sounds in a first frequency range and direct the high-frequency acoustic driver to output the sounds in a second frequency range.
[008] None of these above patents, however alone or in combination, disclose the present invention. The invention consists of certain novel features and a combination of parts hereinafter fully described, illustrated in the accompanying drawings, and particularly pointed out in the appended claims, it being understood that various changes in the details may be made without departing from the spirit, or sacrificing any of the advantages of the present invention.
Summary of the Invention:
[009] This invention introduces a refined design and framework for smart glasses that prioritize both technological innovation and user privacy. Featuring a slim, stylish frame embedded with sensors, cameras, and data transmission capabilities, these smart glasses are designed to offer immersive functionalities such as augmented reality, real-time translation, and health monitoring. To address privacy concerns, the invention incorporates privacy-by-design principles, enabling users to control and customize data collection settings. Key features include modular components that allow users to disable specific functions, transparent data practices, and enhanced security measures like encryption and biometric authentication. By providing users with granular control over their data and ensuring transparency in data usage, this invention enables the transformative potential of smart glasses while protecting privacy rights, thus offering a balanced approach to wearable technology in an increasingly interconnected world.
Detailed Description of the Invention with Accompanying Drawings:
[010] For the purpose of facilitating an understanding of the invention, there is illustrated in the accompanying drawing a preferred embodiment thereof, from an inspection of which, when considered in connection with the following description, the invention, its preparation, and many of its advantages should be readily understood and appreciated.
[011] The principal object of the invention is to develop Smart Glasses: Balancing Innovation and Privacy.
The invention of privacy-focused smart glasses combines cutting-edge technology with privacy-centric design features, offering a transformative, user-centered wearable that addresses the privacy concerns associated with advanced data collection capabilities. Each element of the glasses is designed to balance user control, data security, and functionality, resulting in a device that is both technologically capable and ethically considerate.
1. Design and Form Factor: The smart glasses feature a slim, stylish frame that resembles traditional eyewear, promoting user comfort and social acceptance. The frame integrates various high-tech components-such as cameras, microphones, sensors, and a display module-within a lightweight and ergonomic design. The front of the glasses includes discreet LED indicators that signal to the user and those nearby when certain functions, like recording or data transmission, are active. The temple arms are designed with adjustable hinges, enabling a snug fit, and incorporate user controls such as touchpads or buttons for seamless interaction.
2. Privacy-Centric Hardware: The glasses include modular hardware components that allow users to physically disable or detach certain features, such as the camera or microphone, for enhanced privacy. This modularity empowers users to customize their smart glasses according to situational needs, preventing unwanted data capture in sensitive environments. Additionally, a small, low-power LED is incorporated to indicate when the camera is active, providing transparency and preventing covert recording.
3. Data Collection and Privacy Controls: A comprehensive privacy management system is built into the device's software, allowing users to control what data is collected, stored, or shared. For instance, users can turn off location tracking, facial recognition, or audio recording independently. The system also supports granular consent options, providing users with the ability to permit or restrict specific functionalities as needed. These options are easily accessible via a user-friendly interface on the glasses or a companion smartphone app, empowering users to tailor their privacy settings to their comfort level.
4. Biometric Authentication and Security: To enhance security, the smart glasses use biometric authentication, such as fingerprint or iris recognition, to ensure only authorized users can access the device. This not only safeguards user data but also prevents unauthorized individuals from exploiting the device's features. Data encryption protocols protect stored data, while secure transmission methods, such as end-to-end encryption, ensure data is safe when communicated to paired devices or cloud services.
5. Transparent Data Practices: The invention emphasizes transparency in data practices by providing users with clear information about what data is collected, how it is used, and with whom it may be shared. Through an accompanying app or display notifications, users receive real-time updates on data usage. Additionally, users have the option to delete stored data at any time and are notified when data is shared with third parties. This level of transparency aligns with ethical data practices and builds user trust.
6. Augmented Reality and Display Features: The smart glasses feature a high-quality, low-power display that overlays digital information onto the real world, providing an augmented reality experience. The display supports various applications, such as real-time translation, navigation, notifications, and health monitoring. Adaptive optics allows the display to adjust based on ambient lighting, reducing eye strain and optimizing visibility. The display can be turned off or dimmed to ensure that users maintain privacy in public spaces.
7. Additional Sensors and Functionalities: Integrated sensors, including accelerometers, gyroscopes, and proximity sensors, enhance user experience by enabling gesture-based commands and detecting environmental context. For instance, a proximity sensor will recognize when the glasses are removed, pausing active functions to save power and protect privacy. These sensors also support health applications, such as monitoring physical activity, heart rate, or eye movement, while ensuring that such sensitive data remains securely stored and accessible only by the user.
8. Modular and Customizable Design: The modular design allows users to customize the smart glasses by adding or removing features, such as the camera, microphone, or sensors, depending on their privacy needs. For instance, users could attach a module with additional sensors for fitness tracking or remove the camera module in situations where recording is inappropriate. This customizable approach not only supports privacy but also enhances usability across different scenarios.
9. Ethical and Social Considerations: The invention includes visual indicators, such as LED lights, to signal the operational status of certain features, such as recording or data sharing, to those around the user. This approach addresses ethical concerns surrounding surveillance and fosters social acceptance by making it clear when data collection is occurring. Furthermore, the device's design strives to minimize the "creepiness" factor by blending in with conventional eyewear aesthetics, reducing discomfort among the general public.
[012] Overall, this invention exemplifies a responsible approach to wearable technology, setting a new standard for privacy protection in smart glasses while delivering an innovative, feature-rich experience. Through a combination of user-centric design, security-focused components, and transparent data practices, these smart glasses balance innovation and privacy, contributing to a more ethically aligned future for wearable devices.
Figure 1. Working mechanism of smart glass according to the embodiment of the present invention.
[013] Without further elaboration, the foregoing will so fully illustrate my invention, that others may, by applying current of future knowledge, readily adapt the same for use under various conditions of service. It should also be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention.
Advantages over the prior art
[014] Smart Glasses: balancing innovation and privacy proposed by the present invention has the following advantages over the prior art:
1. Enhanced Privacy Control: Users have full control over data collection and sharing, with options to disable specific features like the camera or microphone. This empowers users to decide how much data they share, addressing privacy concerns associated with wearable technology.
2. Modular Design: The ability to add or remove components such as sensors, cameras, and microphones allows users to customize the glasses for different situations, increasing flexibility and promoting privacy in sensitive environments.
3. Transparency and Trust: LED indicators and real-time data notifications inform both users and those nearby of active data collection. This transparency builds trust and mitigates concerns around covert surveillance, making the technology more socially acceptable.
4. User-Friendly Interface: Granular privacy settings and an intuitive interface (via the glasses or a companion app) allow users to easily manage permissions, increasing usability and accessibility for a broad range of users.
5. Security and Data Protection: Biometric authentication and strong encryption measures protect user data from unauthorized access, ensuring data security both on the device and during transmission.
6. Versatile Applications: The glasses support various applications, including augmented reality, health monitoring, navigation, and productivity tools, catering to diverse needs without compromising privacy.
7. Ethical Design and Social Acceptance: By blending traditional eyewear aesthetics with modern technology, the glasses promote social acceptance. They minimize the "creepy" factor commonly associated with wearable cameras, making them more likely to be adopted in public spaces.
8. Improved Health and Safety: With sensors for health tracking and fitness monitoring, the glasses support wellness goals and physical safety. Features like proximity sensors also help users stay aware of their surroundings, reducing risks in busy or unfamiliar areas.
9. Adaptable to Legal Compliance: By incorporating data minimization, transparency, and informed consent, the invention aligns with regulatory frameworks, making it easier to comply with privacy laws and standards like GDPR.
10. Seamless User Experience: The smart glasses offer a hands-free, immersive experience that enhances productivity and convenience, providing users with real-time information and control without needing additional devices.
[015] In the preceding specification, the invention has been described with reference to specific exemplary embodiments thereof. It will be evident that various modifications and changes may be made thereunto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims that follow. The specification and drawings are accordingly to be regarded in an illustrative rather than restrictive sense. Therefore, the aim in the appended claims is to cover all such changes and modifications as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention. The matter set forth in the foregoing description and accompanying drawings is offered by way of illustration only and not as a limitation. The actual scope of the invention is intended to be defined in the following claims when viewed in their proper perspective based on the prior art.



, Claims:
We claim:
1. Smart Glasses: balancing innovation and privacy which consists of:
- a frame, at least one camera, microphone, display module, and a set of sensors, wherein the device includes privacy features enabling users to selectively activate or deactivate data collection functions, ensuring control over data usage and transmission.
2. Smart Glasses: balancing innovation and privacy as claimed in claim 1 wherein the device allows users to add, remove, or physically disable components such as cameras, microphones, and sensors to customize privacy settings based on situational needs.
3. Smart Glasses: balancing innovation and privacy as claimed in claim 1 wherein indicator system in smart glasses using LEDs or other visual cues inform both the user and surrounding individuals for active data collection or transmission, providing transparency in device operations.
4. Smart Glasses: balancing innovation and privacy as claimed in claim 1 wherein security feature in smart glasses restricts device access through biometric authentication, such as fingerprint or iris scanning, ensuring only authorized users to operate the device.
5. Smart Glasses: balancing innovation and privacy as claimed in claim 1 wherein it allows users to manage data collection features, including location tracking, facial recognition, and audio recording, providing selective data control over each functionality.
6. Smart Glasses: balancing innovation and privacy as claimed in claim 1 further comprising a companion app that allows users to configure privacy settings remotely.
7. Smart Glasses: balancing innovation and privacy as claimed in claim 1 wherein the camera module have the capability to be detached from the frame, preventing unauthorized recording in sensitive environments.
8. Smart Glasses: balancing innovation and privacy as claimed in claim 1 wherein set of context-aware sensors that automatically adjust device functionality based on environmental or user context, such as deactivating certain features when the glasses are removed.
9. Smart Glasses: balancing innovation and privacy as claimed in claim 1 wherein biometric data is stored securely on the device with encryption to prevent unauthorized access.
10. Smart Glasses: balancing innovation and privacy as claimed in claim 1 wherein data security system in smart glasses uses end-to-end encryption to protect all data collected, processed, and transmitted, securing sensitive user information from unauthorized access

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