RingPad is a wearable computer input system designed to replace traditional trackpad controls using five smart rings.
Each ring will detect finger movements and gestures, allowing users to control their computer through tapping, swiping, scrolling and pinching. The system aims to use IMU and contact sensors, Bluetooth communication and software-based gesture recognition.
1h 45m 22s logged
Today I started designing RingPad, a wearable computer input system that aims to replace traditional trackpad controls using five smart rings.
I worked in Shapr3D to develop the first ring’s CAD model. Initially, I experimented with a raised electronics pod, but realised that having bulky housings on all five fingers would be uncomfortable and unattractive. I redesigned the ring with a flat upper surface and a D-shaped inner opening, creating extra space for electronics while keeping the exterior sleek and angular.
I then created a recessed electronics cavity, approximately 3 mm deep, with around 2 mm of material remaining beneath it.
I also explored the technical challenges of cursor tracking, including IMU drift, virtual reference-point resets, tap-sequence activation and combining movement sensors with contact detection. I’m considering a charging case that would recharge all five rings through charging contacts.
This is still an early CAD prototype, and I haven’t tested the electronics yet. My next step is to select components, check their dimensions against the housing and begin testing gesture detection.
