CN117616348A - Watch with watchband device - Google Patents

Abstract

Wearable electronic devices, such as watches, may include a watch body and a wristband arrangement that may be used together or independently of each other. The wristband device may provide continuous operation of its function even without the watch body. The assembly of the watch body and the wristband device may provide reliable engagement, communication, and power sharing. Thus, neither the watch body nor the wristband device need include components that provide each function desired by the user independently. Instead, the desired function may be provided by the wristband device on a continuous or long-term basis, and the desired function may be provided by the watch body on an intermittent or short-term basis.

Description

Watch with watchband device

Cross Reference to Related Applications

The present application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional application No. 63/217,691, entitled "watch with watchband DEVICE" (WATCH WITH BAND DEVICE), filed on 7.1.2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Technical Field

The present description relates generally to wearable devices, and more particularly to watches with watchband arrangements.

Background

Electronic devices that can be worn on the wrist of a user and that do not merely act as simple timers are becoming increasingly popular. A variety of wearable electronic devices including watches have been developed that include components that provide a variety of functions. For example, some wearable electronic devices include one or more sensors to measure various characteristics of the user and/or the environment in which the device operates. Such a device may include a display indicating the time and date. The devices may also include accelerometers and one or more sensors that enable the user to track fitness activity and health related characteristics (such as heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature) and other information. These devices also typically include a rechargeable battery that powers the electronics within the device.

Drawings

Some features of the subject technology are set forth in the following claims. However, for purposes of explanation, several embodiments of the subject technology are set forth in the following figures.

Fig. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a wristwatch on a user's wrist according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

Fig. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the watchband device of the watch of fig. 1 on a user's wrist with the watch body on a charger according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

Fig. 3 illustrates a side view of a wristwatch including a watch body and a band device, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

Fig. 4 illustrates a side view of the watch of fig. 3 with the wristband device and watch body separated, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

Fig. 5 illustrates a side view of a portion of a wristband device in a contracted configuration, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

Fig. 6 illustrates a side view of a portion of the wristband portion of fig. 5 in an elongated configuration, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

Fig. 7 illustrates a side view of a watch according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

Fig. 8 illustrates a block diagram of a watch body and wristband device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

Detailed Description

The detailed description set forth below is intended as a description of various configurations of the subject technology and is not intended to represent the only configurations in which the subject technology may be practiced. The accompanying drawings are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The specific embodiments include specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of the subject technology. However, it will be clear and apparent to one skilled in the art that the subject technology is not limited to the specific details shown herein and may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known structures and components are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuring the concepts of the subject technology.

A wearable electronic device (including a wristwatch) may perform a series of functions determined by components (e.g., sensors, circuitry, and other hardware) included in the manufactured wearable device. However, space, cost, and other considerations may limit the ability to provide each component that may provide the desired functionality at each given moment. For example, the user may choose to remove the watch to charge his battery. By way of further example, the user may remove the watch for certain activities or for certain occasions. However, removing the entire watch from the user for charging or other purposes would prevent the watch from being able to perform its function with respect to the user, such as tracking the user's biometric using the watch's biometric sensor.

In view of the many occasions where a user may need or desire to remove at least a portion of a watch, it would be beneficial to provide the ability for other portions of the watch to remain with the user. This capability would allow the watch to continuously monitor the user's health indicator and/or other conditions, even when the user removes other portions of the watch. The wearable electronic device (including the watch) of the present disclosure facilitates operation in multiple modes to provide the user with an opportunity to remove some components while still receiving the continued benefit of at least some functions.

The system of the present disclosure may provide a wristwatch having a wristwatch body and a band device that may be used together or independently of each other. The wristband device may provide continuous operation of its function even without the watch body. The assembly of the watch body and the wristband device may provide reliable engagement, communication, and power sharing. Thus, neither the watch body nor the wristband device need include components that provide each function desired by the user independently. Instead, the desired function may be provided by the wristband device on a continuous or long-term basis, and the desired function may be provided by the watch body on an intermittent or short-term basis.

These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to fig. 1 and 8. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting.

According to some embodiments, for example as shown in fig. 1, a wristwatch 10 includes a wristwatch body 100 that is worn on a wrist 2 with a wristband device 200. The watch body 100 may be portable and also attached to other body parts of the user and/or other devices, structures, or objects. The wristband device 200 may be flexible and wrap around at least a portion of a user's wrist 2. The wristband device 200 provides security and convenience by securing the watch body 100 to a user. In some embodiments, the watch body 100 includes a display 20 and a housing for containing the components. The watch body 100 and the band device 200 can communicate with each other and cooperate at least when connected to each other.

It should be appreciated that the teachings related to watches may be applied to other electronic devices, including wearable and/or portable computing devices. Examples include timing devices, computerized eyewear, navigation devices, sports devices, accessory devices, health monitoring devices, medical devices, wrist bands, bracelets, jewelry, and the like.

According to some embodiments, as shown in fig. 2 for example, the watch body 100 may be separated from the wristband device 200 and removed from the user's wrist 2, and the wristband device 200 may be retained on the user's wrist 2. The watch body 100 may be stored remotely from the wristband device 200, such as on a charger device 300 connected to a power source 310. When separated, both the watch body 100 and the wristband device 200 may continue to operate and provide their respective functions. For example, wristband device 200 may include an electronic component 280, such as a sensor, that may operate independently of watch body 100. Such a sensor may continuously monitor a user's health indicator or other condition even when the watch body 100 is not present. When the wristwatch body 100 returns to the band device 200, the band communication element 220 of the band device 200 can send recorded information to the wristwatch body 100, for example, regarding a user's health index or other condition.

By providing wristband device 200 with continuous operation, a user may enjoy a greater range of options with respect to watch body 100 without sacrificing the functionality provided by wristband device 200. For example, the user may remove watch body 100 at night to recharge its battery and continue to wear wristband device 200 to continue monitoring. Such monitoring may include sleep tracking (e.g., exercise, heart rate, etc.). Thus, such monitoring may be performed while the watch body 100 is recharging, and the user may receive the benefits of the monitoring and the battery charging of the watch body the next day. Furthermore, such monitoring can be performed continuously throughout the day and over several days without interruption to effect recharging.

As another example, the user may choose to remove the watch body 100 to perform certain activities, such as exercise. The watch body 100 may be removed to protect it from potential injury, to reduce weight on the user, or to perform other functions elsewhere. During a period of activity or exercise, wristband device 200 may provide functions related to such activity, such as activity tracking (e.g., exercise, heart rate, etc.). Thus, a user may receive the benefit of monitoring by wearing only wristband device 200 during a period of time.

As another example, the user may choose to remove the watch body 100 to change the aesthetic appearance of the watch. In some instances, a user may prefer aesthetic or aesthetic characteristics (e.g., color, pattern, and/or material), ergonomic features, shape, size, flexibility, and/or feel of wristband device 200 without watch body 100. Additionally or alternatively, different watch bodies 100 may be paired with any given wristband device 200 to provide different aesthetic features, and/or look and feel.

Fig. 3 illustrates a watch 10 including a watch body 100 that may be used with a wristband device 200 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

The watch body 100 may include one or more I/O systems. For example, the watch body 100 may include a display 20 configured to output various information about the watch 10. The display 20 of the watch body 100 may also be configured to receive touch input from a user. The watch body 100 may also have other input and output mechanisms. For example, the watch body 100 may include or interface with one or more buttons, crowns, keys, dials, touch pads, microphones, and the like.

The watch body 100 may include a watch case 30, the watch case 30 being configured to surround a peripheral region of the watch body 100 and to support internal components of the watch body 100 in an assembled position thereof. For example, the watch case 30 encloses and supports various internal components (including, for example, integrated circuit chips, processors, memory devices, and other circuitry) to provide computing and functional operations for the watch 10. The watch case 30 may optionally include a rigid material, such as metal, ceramic, plastic, or the like.

The watch 10 may be coupled to the wrist using the wristband device 200. The wristband device 200 may include a wristband body 250 defining an exterior surface 252 and an interior surface of the wristband device 200. In some embodiments, the wristband body 250 may encase (e.g., completely enclose) one or more components of the wristband device 200, such as the wristband communication element 220, the electronic component 280, and/or the connector 240. Alternatively, wristband body 250 may allow at least a portion of one or more components contained therein to be exposed at a surface thereof.

In some embodiments, wristband body 250 may define a continuous loop structure. For example, wristband body 250 may form a closed loop, unitary, and/or one-piece construction that can be elastically stretched to fit over a user's hand and can be contracted to fit comfortably and securely over a user's wrist to maintain contact of the sensor without being overly taut. The material of wristband body 250 may include one or more elastomers, silicones, fluorosilicones, urethanes, synthetic thermosets, and any combination thereof. However, the various embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the above materials, but may be applied to any material capable of achieving the desired mating characteristics. In some embodiments, the elastomeric material of wristband body 250 may have a hardness of between about 20A and about 100A shore. The wristband body 250 may be formed by overmolding with respect to other components of the wristband device 200.

Alternatively, the wristband body 250 may be configured to be releasably attached or secured to itself using a clasp or other attachment mechanism to form a loop. The loop may then be used to secure to the wrist of the user. The circuit may be secured (e.g., at the clasp) by one or more releasable locking mechanisms. For example, mechanisms such as locks, latches, snaps, screws, clasps, threads, magnets, and/or pins may be included to lock wristband device 200 to a user's wrist. The wristband device 200 may optionally remain locked from removal until the release mechanism is actuated. A release mechanism may be provided on an outer surface of wristband device 200 for access by a user. For example, the release mechanism may be provided on the outer surface of the wristband device 200 and/or at the clasp.

Watchband body 250 can include natural materials and/or synthetic materials. Watchband body 250 can include, for example, leather, woven material, nonwoven material, felt, metal, mesh, links, and the like. Although wristband body 250 is shown as being formed as a unitary structure, it should be understood that wristband body 250 may additionally or alternatively include multiple portions. Where multiple materials are used, each material may have different structural characteristics, feel, and/or appearance. In some cases, the material is selected to provide the tape with composite properties: a first set of characteristics of the inner layer (associated with the first material) that is in contact with the user's skin, and a second set of characteristics of the outer layer (associated with the second material) that is visible and exposed to various environmental elements.

As further shown in fig. 3, the watch body 100 includes a case 30 having an outer side 110 and an inner side 112 opposite the outer side 110. The outer side 110 faces away from the user's wrist (e.g., at the display 20) when the watch 10 is worn, and the inner side 112 faces toward the user's wrist when the watch 10 is worn. The body may include a controller 102 for controlling the operation of the watch body 100 and/or wristband device 200.

The wristband device 200 may be attached, for example, to the interior side 112 of the case 30. When the wristband device 200 is attached to the case 30, the electronic components 280 (e.g., sensors) of the wristband device 200 are operatively connected to the controller 102 of the watch body 100. As shown in fig. 3, wristband device 200 forms an exterior side 210 and an interior side 212 opposite exterior side 210. When the watch 10 is worn, the inner side 212 faces the watch body 100 and away from the wrist of the user. When the watch 10 is worn, the outer side 210 faces away from the watch body 100 and faces the wrist of the user.

Watch body 100 may include one or more body engagement elements 130, and wristband device 200 may include one or more wristband engagement elements 230. The body engagement element 130 and the wristband-engagement element 230 facilitate a mechanical coupling or connection of the watch body 100 and the wristband device 200. The body engagement element 130 and wristband engagement element 230 may include one or more of a variety of features, as further described herein. Although opposing blocks are depicted in fig. 3, it will be appreciated that other attachment and securing features, such as magnets, locks, latches, snaps, screws, clasps, threads, and/or pins may be included on the watch body 100 and/or the wristband device 200 for securely attaching the wristband device 200 to the watch body 100. It should be appreciated that some types of engagement elements (e.g., magnets) may facilitate engagement while remaining completely enclosed within the wristband body 250.

As another example, watch body 100 may include one or more body communication elements 120, and wristband device 200 may include one or more wristband communication elements 220. The body communication element 120 and the wristband communication element 220 may facilitate a communication and/or power link between the watch body 100 and the wristband device 200. The body communication element 120 and the wristband communication element 220 may include one or more of a variety of features, as further described herein. Although simple blocks are depicted in fig. 3, it will be appreciated that one or more of a variety of communication links may be provided, for example, a wireless receiver/transmitter, inductive coupling features (e.g., coils), electrical connectors, pogo pins, and/or conductive surfaces may be included in the watch body 100 and/or wristband device 200 for coupling the electronic components 280 of the wristband device 200 to the controller 102 of the watch body 100 for power and/or communication exchanges. It should be appreciated that some types of communication elements, such as wireless receivers/transmitters and/or inductive coupling features (e.g., coils), may facilitate communication while remaining completely enclosed within the wristband body 250.

The wristband device 200 may include one or more electronic components 280 that provide communication, access, or other functionality on the wristband device 200 or through the wristband device 200. While selected electronic components 280 are shown in fig. 3, it should be understood that one or more of the various components, including electronic components, may be provided by wristband device 200, as further described herein. For example, the electronic component 280 may include one or more sensors, one or more health sensors, one or more environmental sensors, one or more batteries, one or more communication components, one or more I/O components, one or more communication elements, and/or one or more audio devices, one or more optical devices, and/or one or more haptic devices. As another example, wristband device 200 may include a display (e.g., LCD, LED, etc.) to provide a visual output, e.g., including an indication of status and/or other information corresponding to a sensed condition detected by a sensor. The electronic component 280 may include circuitry and/or structures that support the functionality provided by the electronic component 280.

While the electronic component 280 of fig. 3 is shown as rectangular at a particular location, it should be understood that the electronic component 280 may be any size, shape, and/or arrangement. For example, the electronic component 280 may be square, rectangular, polygonal, round, curved, arcuate, circular, semi-circular, flat, or other shape. The electronic components 280 (e.g., sensors) may have the same size, different sizes, the same shape, or different shapes. The electronic components 280 (e.g., sensors) may be distributed along and/or near the inner and/or outer surfaces of the wristband device 200 in a pattern or another arrangement. The electronic component 280 may extend along the inner and/or outer surfaces of the wristband device 200 and/or into or through the width of the wristband device 200 (e.g., between and to opposite sides of the wristband device 200).

Where the electronic component 280 or other component of the watch body 100 includes an optical device (e.g., an optical sensor), the wristband device 200 may provide one or more windows that form an optical path to transmit light to and/or from the wristband device 200 and/or the sensor of the watch body 100. With light transmitted through the window, one or more optical (e.g., photoplethysmography or PPG) sensors may be used to calculate various biological features including, but not limited to, heart rate, respiration rate, blood oxygen level, blood volume estimation, blood pressure, or a combination thereof. The window may form an opening, a transmission medium, a filter, and/or a lens. It should be appreciated that any number of windows may be provided. The one or more windows may provide for the transmission of light from the wristband arrangement 200 and/or the light emitting device within the watch body 100. One or more windows may provide for the transmission of light to light detection devices (e.g., sensors) within wristband assembly 200 and/or watch body 100. The window may be of any size, shape and arrangement. For example, the window may be arranged to align with the sensor and/or one or more target areas of the user when the watch is worn by the user. As described herein, the wristband device 200 and/or the watch body 100 may include a display to provide visual output, for example, including an indication of a status and/or other information corresponding to a sensed condition detected by a sensor.

Additionally or alternatively, wristband device 200 may provide one or more electrodes to provide a conductive path through or along wristband device 200. The electrodes may be operable to perform electrical measurements, for example, to measure Electrocardiogram (ECG) characteristics, skin resistance, and other electrical characteristics of the user's body and/or environment. It should be appreciated that any number of electrodes may be provided. Each electrode may be insulated from other electrodes and/or other components of the watch. One or more electrodes may operate as a first terminal and one or more electrodes may operate as additional terminals. The electrodes may be of any size, shape and arrangement. For example, the electrodes may be arranged to align with one or more target areas of the user when the watch is worn by the user.

Additionally or alternatively, wristband device 200 may provide one or more other electronic components 280 that provide other functions. The one or more electronic components 280 may provide convenient measurements of body temperature, exposure to UV radiation, and other health related information. The one or more electronic components 280 may provide convenient measurements of body temperature, exposure to UV radiation, and other health related information. The one or more electronic components 280 may be configured to provide or facilitate detection of images, pressure, light, touch, force, temperature, location, motion, etc. The one or more electronic components 280 may include or facilitate operation of temperature sensors, light or optical sensors, barometric pressure sensors, humidity sensors, magnets, gyroscopes, accelerometers, and the like. The one or more electronic components 280 may include openings that extend partially or completely through the wristband device 200 to be exposed to an external environment, such as for measurement.

The various sensors of wristband device 200 may operate as electronic components 280 to detect wrist, hand, and/or arm movements of a user. For example, one or more IMUs may include accelerometers, gyroscopes, and/or magnetometers (e.g., compasses) for sensing overall movement of a user's wrist and arm. As another example, distributed pressure sensors and/or strain gauges on or within wristband device 200 may be used to measure pressure changes on wristband body 250 when a user makes wrist and/or hand gestures. As another example, a proximity sensor and/or an array of proximity sensors (e.g., optical or ultrasonic proximity sensors) may be used to measure wrist bending (e.g., using a measurement of the change in distance between the wrist interface surface and the wrist) and/or to write on the user's own hand by the user's other hand (e.g., by measuring the changing distance of the user's other finger from the proximity sensor on the sidewall of wristband device 200). As another example, one or more EMG sensors may detect electrical activity in the musculature of the wearer as the wearer moves his or her hand, wrist or arm. As another example, an ultrasonic sensor and/or an ultrasonic imager may be used to project ultrasonic signals into the wrist of a wearer and receive reflected ultrasonic signals to monitor muscle/tendon movements within the wrist of a user. As another example, a lidar sensor may include a laser emission source and a photodetector that detects the reflection of the emitted laser light. As another example, the RF sensor may include an RF receiver, transmitter, or transceiver that receives or transmits RF signals from or to a corresponding RF device on another wrist to facilitate gesture detection based on relative motion or positioning of the hands. As another example, an optical blood oxygen sensor may be used to measure blood concentration under the surface of the skin due to contact pressure changes caused by wrist motion.

It should be appreciated that the electronic component 280 may be positioned at any one or more of various locations along the wristband device 200. For example, at least one electronic component 280 may be positioned on the palm side 264 of wristband-device 200 opposite wristband-communication element 220, wristband-engaging element 230, and/or watch body 100 (e.g., to align with or approximate a central region at the palm or palm side of a wrist). In some examples, a sensor positioned at this location may provide more accurate measurements than at other locations. For example, one or more sensors may perform measurements on a side of wristband device 200 opposite wristband communication element 220, wristband-engaging element 230, and/or watch body 100. Such sensors may optionally include PPG sensors, tendinous grip sensors, and/or temperature sensors. As another example, as shown in fig. 3, one or more electronic components 280 (e.g., sensors) may be positioned at one or both of the radius side 266 and/or the ulna side 268 of wristband device 200 (e.g., to align with or approximate the radius and/or ulna region of the wrist). Such sensors may optionally include an ambient light sensor and/or a microphone. As another example, at least one electronic component (e.g., a sensor) may be positioned on the same side of the watch body 100 as the wristband-communication element 220, the wristband-engagement element 230, and/or on the back side 262 of the wristband device 200 (e.g., on a central area of the back or back side of the wrist). Such sensors may optionally include accelerometers and/or IMUs. It should be appreciated that measurements from multiple sensors at different locations may be combined to create a composite measurement. It should also be appreciated that such sensors may be provided on any side of wristband device 200 in any number to detect conditions as corresponding locations on a user. The electronic component 280 may also include an antenna that may extend across any length of the wristband device 200, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of its reception and transmission.

According to some embodiments, for example as shown in fig. 4, the watch body 100 may be separated from the wristband device 200. The watch body 100 may be stored remotely from the wristband device 200, such as on a charger device 300 connected to a power source 310. When separated, both the watch body 100 and the wristband device 200 may continue to operate and provide their respective functions.

The charger device 300 may include one or more charger engagement elements 330, and the body engagement element 130 and the charger engagement element 330 facilitate mechanical coupling or connection of the watch body 100 and the charger device 300. The charger engagement element 330 may include one or more features described herein for any other engagement element.

The charger device 300 may include one or more charger communication elements 320, and the body communication element 120 and the charger communication element 320 may facilitate communication and/or a power link between the watch body 100 and the charger device 300. The charger communication element 320 may include one or more features described herein with respect to any other communication element. The charger device 300 may charge the battery of the watch body 100 using the power supply 310. Thereafter, when the wristwatch body is returned to the band device 200, the wristwatch body 100 can transfer a certain amount of power to the band device 200.

As described herein, the wristband device 200 may include an electronic component 280, such as a sensor, that may operate independently of the watch body 100. This sensor may continuously monitor a user's health indicator or other condition even when the watch body 100 is not present (e.g., on the charger device 300). When the wristwatch body 100 returns to the band device 200, the band communication element 220 of the band device 200 can send recorded information to the wristwatch body 100, for example, regarding a user's health index or other condition.

According to some embodiments, as shown, for example, in fig. 5 and 6, a wristband device may provide the ability to stretch and maintain an operative connection (e.g., between a communications element and an electronic component of the wristband device). For example, wristband body 250 may encapsulate connector 240, which provides a conductive path for communication of electrical signals. The connector 240 may form a wave-like path including a plurality of curves. As shown in fig. 5 and 6, the connector 240 may change its shape to accommodate longitudinal stretching of the wristband body 250, such as when a user stretches the wristband body while wearing the wristband device on the hand and wrist. As the wristband body 250 stretches, the undulating path may stretch and change its curvature to extend a greater distance. Additionally or alternatively, the connector 240 may include a mixture of an elastic polymer and conductive particles to facilitate bending, flexing, and/or stretching without damage (e.g., breakage, cracking, deformation). Additionally or alternatively, the connector 240 may include a flexible circuit including a conductive layer, an insulating layer, and an optional substrate layer. It should be appreciated that connector 240 may be coupled to wristband body 250 (e.g., from a molding process) and/or may be movable within a cavity or void within wristband body 250.

According to some embodiments, for example as shown in fig. 7, wristband device 200 may include one or more portions each protecting its contents. For example, wristband device 200 may include wristband cases 290 and/or 292 that are rigid and do not undergo flexing and/or deformation when worn during normal use. As another example, wristband case 290 and/or 292 may be more rigid than wristband body 250. The wristband housing 290 may include a wristband-engaging element 230 and/or a wristband communication element 220 for engaging and interacting with the watch body 100 such that the watch body 100 is provided with a security platform for coupling. Watchband housing 292 can include one or more electronic components 280 (e.g., sensors) to maintain a consistent position and/or orientation. Watchband cases 290 and/or 292 can optionally include a rigid material, such as metal, ceramic, plastic, and the like. Other portions of wristband device 200 may include a wristband body 250 (e.g., connecting wristband cases 290 and/or 292 to one another) and/or a clasp or other mechanism for securing and adjusting wristband device 200 to a user as described herein. The wristband device 200 may be secured (e.g., at a clasp) by one or more releasable locking mechanisms at one or more of the wristband cases 290 and/or 292. For example, mechanisms such as locks, latches, snaps, screws, clasps, threads, magnets, and/or pins may be included to lock wristband body 250 to a wristband case 290 and/or 292. The wristband device 200 may optionally remain locked from removal until the release mechanism is actuated. The release mechanism may be provided on an outer surface of wristband housing 290 and/or 292 for access by a user. For example, the release mechanism may be provided on an outer surface of wristband housing 290 and/or 292. It should be appreciated that any number of wristband shells may be provided, including those at the dorsal side 262, palmar side 264, radial side 266, and/or ulnar side 268 of the wristband device 200.

Fig. 8 illustrates a block diagram of a watch body and wristband device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

As shown in fig. 8, the watch body 100 includes a controller 102 having one or more processing units including a memory 104 or a memory 104 configured to access instructions stored thereon. The instructions or computer program may be configured to perform one or more of the operations or functions described with respect to the watch body 100. The controller 102 may be implemented as any electronic device capable of processing, receiving, or transmitting data or instructions. For example, the controller 102 may include one or more of the following: a microprocessor, a Central Processing Unit (CPU), an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), or a combination of such devices. As described herein, the term "processor" is intended to encompass a single processor or processing unit, multiple processors, multiple processing units, or one or more other suitably configured computing elements. The memory 104 may store electronic data that may be used by the watch body 100. For example, the memory 104 may store electrical data or content such as, for example, audio and video files, documents and applications, device settings and user preferences, timing and control signals or data for various modules, data structures, or databases, and the like. The memory 104 may be configured as any type of memory. By way of example only, the memory 104 may be implemented as random access memory, read only memory, flash memory, removable memory, other types of storage elements, or a combination of such devices.

As further shown in fig. 8, the watch body 100 may include components for interacting with a user. For example, the watch body 100 may include a display 20. The display 20 may provide visual (e.g., image or video) output. The display 20 may also provide an input surface for the sensor 132, such as a touch sensing device, a force sensing device, a temperature sensing device, a capacitance sensing device, a resistance sensing device, and/or a fingerprint sensor. The display 20 may be of any size suitable for being at least partially contained on or within the housing of the watch body 100 and may be positioned substantially anywhere on the watch body 100.

The watch body 100 may also include one or more other user interfaces for receiving input from a user and/or providing output to a user. Examples of such interfaces include a speaker 114, a microphone 116, a haptic device 118, and/or another I/O component 108. Haptic component 118 may be implemented as any suitable device configured to provide force feedback, vibration feedback, haptic sensations, and the like. For example, in one embodiment, the haptic device 118 may be implemented as a linear actuator configured to provide intermittent haptic feedback, such as a tap or a tap. As another example, haptic device 118 may be implemented as a piezoelectric transducer. Other embodiments of the user interface include one or more buttons, dials, crowns, switches, or other devices to receive input from a user.

As further shown in fig. 8, the watch body 100 may include a communication component 106 that facilitates transmission of data across standardized or proprietary protocols and/or powering to or from other electronic devices. For example, the communication component 106 can transmit electronic signals via a wireless and/or wired network connection. Examples of wireless and wired network connections include, but are not limited to, cellular networks, wi-Fi, bluetooth, infrared, RFID, and ethernet.

As further shown in fig. 8, the watch body 100 may include a battery 124 for storing power and providing power to other components of the watch body 100. The battery 124 may be a rechargeable power source configured to provide power to the watch body 100 and/or the wristband device 200. The body 100 may also include a charger 122 to recharge the battery 124, for example, using a wireless (e.g., inductive) charging system. The watch body 100 may recharge the battery 224 of the watch strap device 200, for example, by directing power from the battery 124 through the body communication element 120 and the band communication element 220 (e.g., using a wireless or inductive charging system). The battery 124 may be a replaceable battery, a rechargeable battery, or a tethered power supply that receives power from a source external to the watch body 100, such as from a USB cable, a lightning cable, or other interface.

As further shown in fig. 8, wristband device 200 includes components that perform selected functions and interact with watch body 100.

As shown in fig. 8, the watch body 100 may include a body communication element 120, and the wristband device 200 may include a wristband communication element 220 to facilitate a communication link between the watch body 100 and the wristband device 200. For example, the communication link may operatively connect a component of the watch body 100 (such as the controller 102) to the electronic component 280 of the wristband device 200.

As further shown in fig. 8, wristband device 200 may include a controller 202 having one or more processing units including or configured to access a memory 204 having instructions stored thereon. The memory 204 of the controller 202 and/or wristband device 200 may be the same as, similar to, or different from the memory 104 of the controller 102 and/or the watch body 100.

Additionally or alternatively, the wristband device 200 may be controlled at least in part by the controller 102 of the watch body 100. For example, when wristband device 200 is connected to watch body 100, controller 102 of watch body 100 may operably connect and/or control one or more components of wristband device 200 via the communication links provided by body communication element 120 and wristband communication element 220.

Additionally or alternatively, the watch body 100 may be controlled at least in part by the controller 202 of the wristband device 200. For example, when the wristband device 200 is connected to the watch body 100, the controller 202 of the wristband device 200 may be operably connected to and/or control one or more components of the watch body 100 via the communication links provided by the body communication element 120 and the wristband communication element 220.

The wristwatch band device 200 and the wristwatch body 100 can operate as auxiliary power sources to each other. As shown in fig. 8, the wristband device 200 may include a battery 224 for storing power and providing power to the watch body 100 and/or the wristband device 200. The wristband device 200 may recharge the battery 124 of the watch body 100, for example, by directing power from the battery 224 through the body communication element 120 and the wristband communication element 220. Other paths are contemplated, such as another link or wireless charging, such as charger 122 to recharge battery 124, for example, using a wireless (e.g., inductive) charging system. The battery 224 may be a replaceable battery, a rechargeable battery, or a tethered power supply that receives power from a source external to the wristband device 200, such as from a USB cable, a lightning cable, or other interface.

The wristband device 200 may utilize one or more sensors to provide sensing capabilities. As shown in fig. 8, wristband device 200 may include one or more sensors 232. The one or more sensors 232 may be configured to sense substantially any type of feature, such as, but not limited to, image, pressure, light, touch, force, temperature, position, motion, and the like. For example, the one or more sensors 232 may be photodetectors, temperature sensors, light or optical sensors, barometric pressure sensors, humidity sensors, magnets, gyroscopes, accelerometers, chemical sensors, ozone sensors, particle count sensors, and so forth. The sensor 232 may be used to sense environmental conditions in the adjacent environment. The sensor 232 may be configured to be exposed to the environment, for example, with an opening in the wristband device 200.

Watchband device 200 can utilize one or more sensors to provide biosensing capabilities. As shown in fig. 8, wristband device 200 may include one or more biosensors 234. The one or more biosensors 234 may include optical and/or electronic biometric sensors that may be used to calculate one or more biological characteristics. For example, the biosensor 234 may include a light source and a photodetector to form a photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor. Light may be transmitted from the biosensor 234 to the user and back to the biosensor 234. Watchband device 200 can provide one or more windows (e.g., openings, transmission media, and/or lenses) to transmit light to biosensor 234 and/or to transmit light from biosensor 234. One or more optical (e.g., PPG) sensors may be used to calculate various biological characteristics including, but not limited to, heart rate, respiration rate, blood oxygen level, blood volume estimation, blood pressure, or a combination thereof. One or more of the biosensors 234 may also be configured to perform electrical measurements using one or more electrodes. One or more electrical sensors may be used to measure Electrocardiogram (ECG) characteristics, skin resistance, and other electrical characteristics of the user's body. Additionally or alternatively, the biosensor 234 may be configured to measure body temperature, exposure to ultraviolet radiation, and other health-related information.

Watchband device 200 can include means for receiving input from a user, providing output to a user, and/or performing other functions. As shown in fig. 8, wristband device 200 may include one or more I/O components 208. Examples of such components include a speaker, a microphone, a display, a touch sensor, a haptic device, a camera, an optical sensor, a magnet, a gyroscope, an accelerometer, and/or another I/O component. The I/O component 208 can be utilized to detect and interpret user input. I/O component 208 can be used to provide information to a user. The I/O component 208 can also be utilized to capture information related to a user and/or environment.

Watchband device 200 can provide the ability to communicate with other devices. The user may select such wristband devices when such communication links are desired. As shown in fig. 8, communication element 206 facilitates the transfer of data and/or power to and from other electronic devices. As previously described, the communication element 206 may be used to control, communicate with, and/or receive data from a watch band. In such a configuration, the communication element 206 may be positioned at the wristband-retaining feature 16 of the wristband device. In other configurations, the communication element 206 may be used to control and/or communicate with other devices. For example, the communication element 206 may be used to connect to another device that performs diagnostic and/or repair functions. Thus, the communication element 206 may be used to provide a communication link to the wristband device 200 of the watch and/or the watch body 100. The communication link provided by the communication element 206 may include a standardized or proprietary protocol, such as having electronic signals connected via a wireless and/or wired network. Examples of wireless network connections and wired network connections include, but are not limited to, wi-Fi, bluetooth, infrared, RFID, and ethernet.

Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a wristwatch having a wristwatch body and a band device that can be used together or independently of each other. The wristband device may provide continuous operation of its function even without the watch body. The assembly of the watch body and the wristband device may provide reliable engagement, communication, and power sharing. Thus, neither the watch body nor the wristband device need include components that provide each function desired by the user independently. Instead, the desired function may be provided by the wristband device on a continuous or long-term basis, and the desired function may be provided by the watch body on an intermittent or short-term basis.

For convenience, various examples of aspects of the disclosure are described below as clauses. These examples are provided by way of example and not limitation of the subject technology.

Clause a: a wristwatch, comprising: a watch body, the watch body comprising: a display; a controller; a body engagement element; and a body communication element; and a wristband device forming a continuous loop and comprising: a sensor; a wristband-engaging element; a wristband communication element, wherein the controller is operatively connected to the sensor via the body communication element and the wristband communication element when the watch body is attached to the wristband device; and a wristband body enveloping the sensor, the wristband-engaging element, and the wristband communication element.

Clause B: a wristband device, comprising: a wristband body forming a loop and configured to stretch to adjust a diameter of the loop; a wristband-engaging element configured to engage a watch body; a wristband communication element configured to communicate with the watch body; a sensor; and a flexible connector extending within the wristband body to operably connect the wristband communication element to the sensor, the flexible connector forming a contoured shape configured to flex when the wristband body is stretched.

Clause C: a wristwatch, comprising: a watch body, the watch body comprising: a display; a controller; a body engagement element; and a body communication element; and a wristband device forming a loop and comprising: a band engagement element located on a first side of the loop for engaging the watch body; a wristband communication element located on a first side of the loop for communicating with the body communication element; and a sensor located on a second side of the circuit opposite the first side.

An additional sensor positioned on one side of the circuit that connects the first side of the circuit to the second side of the circuit.

One or more of the above clauses may include one or more of the following features. It should be noted that any of the following clauses may be combined with each other in any combination and placed in the corresponding independent clauses, e.g., clauses A, B or C.

Clause 1: the body engagement element and the body communication element are located on a side of the watch body opposite the display.

Clause 2: the watch body further includes: a microphone; a speaker; and a button for receiving input from a user.

Clause 3: the body engagement element and the wristband engagement element include magnets.

Clause 4: the body communication element and the wristband communication element are configured to wirelessly communicate with each other.

Clause 5: the watchband device further includes a battery; and the watch body further includes a charger configured to wirelessly transmit power to the battery of the wristband device.

Clause 6: the wristband device further includes a storage medium configured to store information based on detection by the sensor when the wristwatch body is not connected to the wristband device; and the wristband communication element is configured to transmit information to the controller when the watch body is connected to the wristband device.

Clause 7: the sensor is configured to detect a characteristic of the user.

Clause 8: the sensor is configured to detect a characteristic of an environment external to the watch.

Clause 9: the wristband-engaging element is located on a first side of the circuit; the watchband communication elements are located on a first side of the loop; and the sensor is located on a second side of the loop opposite the first side.

Clause 10: an additional sensor positioned on one side of the circuit that connects the first side of the circuit to the second side of the circuit.

Clause 11: the sensor comprises a photoplethysmography sensor.

Clause 12: the watchband device includes: an upper case accommodating the band engaging element and the band communication element; and a lower housing accommodating the sensor; and a wristband body extending between the upper case and the lower case.

As described above, one aspect of the present technology may include collecting and using data from various sources. The present disclosure contemplates that in some examples, such collected data may include personal information data that uniquely identifies or may be used to contact or locate a particular person. Such personal information data may include demographic data, location-based data, telephone numbers, email addresses, twitter IDs, home addresses, data or records related to the user's health or fitness level (e.g., vital signs measurements, medication information, exercise information), birth dates, or any other identifying or personal information.

The present disclosure recognizes that the use of such personal information data in the present technology may be used to benefit users. For example, health and fitness data may be used to provide insight into the overall health of a user, or may be used as positive feedback to individuals using technology to pursue health goals.

The present disclosure contemplates that entities responsible for collecting, analyzing, disclosing, transmitting, storing, or otherwise using such personal information data will adhere to established privacy policies and/or privacy practices. In particular, such entities should exercise and adhere to privacy policies and practices that are recognized as meeting or exceeding industry or government requirements for maintaining the privacy and security of personal information data. Such policies should be readily accessible to the user and should be updated as the collection and/or use of the data changes. Personal information from users should be collected for legal and reasonable use by entities and not shared or sold outside of these legal uses. In addition, such collection/sharing should be performed after informed consent is received from the user. In addition, such entities should consider taking any necessary steps to defend and secure access to such personal information data and to ensure that others who have access to personal information data adhere to their privacy policies and procedures. In addition, such entities may subject themselves to third party evaluations to prove compliance with widely accepted privacy policies and practices. In addition, policies and practices should be adjusted to collect and/or access specific types of personal information data and to suit applicable laws and standards including specific considerations of jurisdiction. For example, in the united states, the collection or acquisition of certain health data may be governed by federal and/or state law, such as the health insurance flow and liability act (HIPAA); while health data in other countries may be subject to other regulations and policies and should be processed accordingly. Thus, different privacy practices should be maintained for different personal data types in each country.

In spite of the foregoing, the present disclosure also contemplates embodiments in which a user selectively prevents use or access to personal information data. That is, the present disclosure contemplates that hardware elements and/or software elements may be provided to prevent or block access to such personal information data. For example, with respect to advertisement delivery services, the techniques of this disclosure may be configured to allow a user to choose to "opt-in" or "opt-out" to participate in the collection of personal information data during or at any time after registration with the service. In another example, the user may choose not to provide mood-related data for the targeted content delivery service. In another example, the user may choose to limit the length of time that the mood-related data is maintained, or to completely prohibit development of the underlying mood state. In addition to providing the "opt-in" and "opt-out" options, the present disclosure also contemplates providing notifications related to accessing or using personal information. For example, the user may be notified that his personal information data will be accessed when the application is downloaded, and then be reminded again just before the personal information data is accessed by the application.

Further, it is an object of the present disclosure that personal information data should be managed and processed to minimize the risk of inadvertent or unauthorized access or use. Once the data is no longer needed, risk can be minimized by limiting the data collection and deleting the data. In addition, and when applicable, included in certain health-related applications, the data de-identification may be used to protect the privacy of the user. De-identification may be facilitated by removing specific identifiers (e.g., date of birth, etc.), controlling the amount or specificity of stored data (e.g., collecting location data at a city level instead of at an address level), controlling how data is stored (e.g., aggregating data among users), and/or other methods, as appropriate.

Thus, while the present disclosure broadly covers the use of personal information data to implement one or more of the various disclosed embodiments, the present disclosure also contemplates that the various embodiments may be implemented without accessing such personal information data. That is, various embodiments of the present technology do not fail to function properly due to the lack of all or a portion of such personal information data. For example, the content may be selected and delivered to the user by inferring preferences based on non-personal information data or absolute minimum amount of personal information such as content requested by a device associated with the user, other non-personal information available to the content delivery service, or publicly available information.

Elements referred to in the singular are not intended to be unique unless specifically stated, but rather are intended to mean one or more. For example, "a" module may refer to one or more modules. Elements prefixed with "a", "an", "the" or "the" do not exclude the presence of additional identical elements without further limitation.

Headings and subheadings, if any, are for convenience only and do not limit the invention. The term "exemplary" is used to mean serving as an example or illustration. To the extent that the terms "includes," "having," and the like are used, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "comprising" as the term "comprising" is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim. Relational terms such as "first" and "second", and the like may be used to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions.

Phrases such as an aspect, this aspect, another aspect, some aspects, one or more aspects, an implementation, the implementation, another implementation, some implementations, one or more implementations, an embodiment, the embodiment, another embodiment, some embodiments, one or more embodiments, a configuration, the configuration, another configuration, some configurations, one or more configurations, subject technology, disclosure, the present disclosure, other variations, and the like are all for convenience and do not imply that disclosure involving such one or more phrases is essential to the subject technology, or that such disclosure applies to all configurations of the subject technology. The disclosure relating to such one or more phrases may apply to all configurations or one or more configurations. The disclosure relating to such one or more phrases may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as an aspect or some aspects may refer to one or more aspects and vice versa, and this applies similarly to other previously described phrases.

The phrase "at least one" preceding a series of items, with the term "and" or "separating any of the items, modifies the list as a whole rather than each member in the list. The phrase "at least one" does not require the selection of at least one item; rather, the phrase allows for the inclusion of at least one of any one item and/or the meaning of at least one of any combination of items and/or at least one of each item. By way of example, each of the phrases "at least one of A, B and C" or "at least one of A, B or C" refers to a alone, B alone, or C alone; A. any combination of B and C; and/or at least one of each of A, B and C.

It is to be understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps, operations or processes disclosed is an illustration of exemplary approaches. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, it is understood that the particular order or hierarchy of steps, operations or processes may be performed in a different order. Some of the steps, operations, or processes may be performed simultaneously. The accompanying method claims, if any, present elements of the various steps, operations, or processes in a sample order, and are not meant to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented. These may be performed in serial, linear, parallel, or a different order. It should be understood that the described instructions, operations, and systems may be generally integrated together in a single software/hardware product or packaged into multiple software/hardware products.

In one aspect, the term "coupled" or the like may refer to a direct coupling. On the other hand, the term "coupled" or the like may refer to an indirect coupling.

Terms such as top, bottom, front, rear, side, horizontal, vertical, etc. refer to any frame of reference and not to the usual gravitational frame of reference. Thus, such terms may extend upwardly, downwardly, diagonally or horizontally in a gravitational frame of reference.

The present disclosure is provided to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. In some instances, well-known structures and components are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuring the concepts of the subject technology. The present disclosure provides various examples of the subject technology, and the subject technology is not limited to these examples. Various modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the principles described herein may be applied to other aspects.

All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various aspects described throughout this disclosure that are known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the claims. Furthermore, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the claims. According to the provisions of 35u.s.c. ≡112, there is no need to interpret any claim element unless the phrase "method is used to" explicitly state the element or, in the case of method claims, the phrase "step is used to" state the element.

The headings, background, brief description of the drawings, abstract and drawings are incorporated herein by reference into this disclosure and are provided as illustrative examples of the disclosure and not as limiting descriptions. They are not to be taken as limiting the scope or meaning of the claims. Furthermore, it can be seen in the detailed description that the description provides illustrative examples for the purpose of simplifying the disclosure, and that various features are grouped together in various implementations. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed subject matter requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed configuration or operation. The claims are hereby incorporated into the detailed description, with each claim standing on its own as a separately claimed subject matter.

The claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects described herein but are to be accorded the full scope consistent with the language of the claims and encompassing all legal equivalents. None of the claims, however, contain subject matter that is not in compliance with the applicable patent statute, nor should it be construed in such manner.

Claims (20)

1. A wristwatch, the wristwatch comprising:

a watch body, the watch body comprising:

a display;

a controller;

a body engagement element; and

a body communication element; and

a wristband device forming a continuous loop and comprising:

a sensor;

a wristband-engaging element;

a wristband communication element, wherein the controller is operatively connected to the sensor via the body communication element and the wristband communication element when the watch body is attached to the wristband device; and

a wristband body enveloping the sensor, the wristband engagement element, and the wristband communication element.

2. The wristwatch of claim 1, wherein the body engagement element and the body communication element are located on a side of the wristwatch body opposite the display.

3. The wristwatch of claim 1, wherein the wristwatch body further comprises:

a microphone;

a speaker; and

buttons for receiving input from a user.

4. The wristwatch of claim 1, wherein the body engagement element and the band engagement element comprise magnets.

5. The wristwatch of claim 1, wherein the body communication element and the band communication element are configured to communicate wirelessly with each other.

6. The wristwatch of claim 1, wherein:

the watchband device further includes a battery; and is also provided with

The watch body also includes a charger configured to wirelessly transmit power to the battery of the watchband device.

7. The wristwatch of claim 1, wherein:

the wristband device further includes a storage medium configured to store information based on detection by the sensor when the wristwatch body is not connected to the wristband device; and is also provided with

The wristband communication element is configured to transmit the information to the controller when the watch body is connected to the wristband device.

8. The wristwatch of claim 1, wherein the sensor is configured to detect a characteristic of a user.

9. The watch of claim 1, wherein the sensor is configured to detect a characteristic of an environment external to the watch.

10. A wristband device, the wristband device comprising:

a wristband body forming a loop and configured to stretch to adjust a diameter of the loop;

a wristband-engaging element configured to engage a watch body;

a wristband communication element configured to communicate with the watch body;

a sensor; and

a flexible connector extending within the wristband body to operably connect the wristband communication element to the sensor, the flexible connector forming a contoured shape configured to flex when the wristband body is stretched.

11. The wristband device of claim 10, wherein:

the wristband-engaging element is located on a first side of the circuit;

the watchband communication element is located on a first side of the loop; and is also provided with

The sensor is located on a second side of the circuit opposite the first side.

12. The wristband device of claim 11, further comprising an additional sensor positioned on one side of the loop, the loop connecting a first side of the loop to a second side of the loop.

13. The wristband device of claim 10, wherein the sensor is configured to detect a characteristic of a user.

14. The wristband device of claim 10, wherein the sensor is configured to detect a characteristic of an environment external to the watch.

15. A wristwatch, the wristwatch comprising:

a watch body, the watch body comprising:

a display;

a controller;

a body engagement element; and

a body communication element; and

a wristband device forming a loop and comprising:

a band engagement element on a first side of the loop for engaging the watch body;

a wristband communication element on a first side of the loop for communicating with the body communication element; and

a sensor is located on a second side of the loop opposite the first side.

16. The wristwatch of claim 15, further comprising an additional sensor positioned on one side of the loop, the loop connecting a first side of the loop to a second side of the loop.

17. The wristwatch of claim 15, wherein the sensor comprises a photoplethysmography sensor.

18. The wristwatch of claim 15, wherein the band device comprises:

an upper case housing the wristband-engaging element and the wristband-communicating element; and

a lower housing accommodating the sensor; and

a wristband body extending between the upper case and the lower case.

19. The wristwatch of claim 15, wherein the sensor is configured to detect a characteristic of a user.

20. The wristwatch of claim 15, wherein the sensor is configured to detect a characteristic of an environment external to the wristwatch.