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.