KR102251255B1 - Multi-purpose interface for a portable electronic device - Google Patents

Abstract

The multipurpose band 200 for use with the portable electronic device 100 includes a base link 202, an interface link 203, and a coupling link 204. The base link 202 is joined to the interface link 203 by an interface support hinge 207, and the coupling link 204 is between the base link 202 and the interface link 203. United. The multi-purpose band 200 is configured to be arranged in a band configuration to be worn on the user's wrist 300 or ankle and in a stand configuration to support the portable electronic device 100 at a support angle 211. Interface link 203 defines an interface surface 212. The charging feature 240 may be disposed on the interface link 203 in proximity to the interface surface 212, and the charging feature 240 may be configured between the charging feature 240 and the portable electronic device 100. It is configured to facilitate establishing a charging relationship between the charging feature 240 and the electrical connector 166 to facilitate engagement between the electrical connectors 166.

Description

Multipurpose interface for portable electronic devices {MULTI-PURPOSE INTERFACE FOR A PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE}

The present disclosure relates to a band worn around the ankle or wrist. The present disclosure also relates to a stand for a portable electronic device capable of supporting a portable electronic device in a desired viewing orientation, capable of providing wireless charging of the portable electronic device and exchange of information with the portable electronic device. The present disclosure thus relates to a multipurpose charging interface for a portable electronic device, the charging interface being wearable to a user as a wristwatch or bracelet or anklet.

Electronic devices including portable electronic devices have been widely used, and various functions including, for example, telephone, electronic messaging, and other personal information manager (PIM) application program functions may be provided. Portable electronic devices include several types of mobile stations such as, for example, simple cellular phones with wireless 802.11 or Bluetooth capabilities, smart phones, wireless personal digital assistants (PDAs), tablet computers, and laptop computers.

In today's world, various auxiliary devices have been developed to enhance the user's experience in using portable electronic devices. For example, a user may use a portable charging device to recharge the portable electronic device, or may use an external speaker in connection with his portable electronic device. The user may use the external interface to transfer information to or from the portable electronic device, and may also use the external display to view information transmitted from the portable electronic device. The stand or docking station can provide a convenient receptacle for the electronic device while coupled to a power source to charge the battery of the portable electronic device. Such a stand may also provide an interface for data transfer between the portable electronic device and, for example, a computer.

Unfortunately, it can be inconvenient to reliably transport or locate such an auxiliary device at a time or place where it is desired to use it.

For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure, reference is made to the following brief description set forth in connection with the accompanying drawings and the detailed description, in which like reference numbers indicate like parts.
1 is a block diagram of an example of a portable electronic device.
2 is another diagram of an example of a portable electronic device.
3 shows an exemplary multipurpose band in a stand configuration.
4 is a view showing an exemplary multi-purpose band in a stand configuration.
5 is a view showing a multipurpose band arranged in a band configuration for wearing on a user's wrist or ankle.
6 is a view showing a multi-purpose band arranged in a band configuration for wearing on a user's wrist or ankle.
7 is a view showing a multi-purpose band configured as a stand.

Multipurpose bands for use with portable electronic devices are described herein. The multipurpose band is configured to be arranged in at least two different configurations. When in a so-called "band configuration", the multipurpose band is configured to be worn on the user's wrist or ankle. When in a so-called "stand configuration" (which may also be referred to as a "charging stand configuration"), the multipurpose band is configured to support the portable electronic device at a support angle. In this disclosure, elements may be described as being “configured” to perform one or more functions (or “configured” for functions or “configured” to perform functions). In general, an element configured to perform a function may be suitable for performing a function, suitable for performing a function, an operation for performing a function, or performing a function in another way.

First, although illustrated implementations of one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are provided below, the disclosed systems and/or methods, whether currently known or existing, may be implemented using any number of techniques. You will know that there is. The disclosure should in no way be limited to the exemplary implementations, drawings and techniques illustrated below, including the exemplary designs and implementations illustrated and described herein, and the appended claims together with the full scope of their equivalents. It can be modified within the scope of.

For simplicity and clarity of illustration, reference numerals may be repeated among the drawings to indicate corresponding or similar elements. Numerous details have been described to provide an understanding of the examples described herein. Examples may be practiced without these details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures and components have not been described in detail in order to avoid obscuring the described examples. This description should not be considered limited to the scope of the examples described herein.

Words such as “substantial” or “generally”, as used herein, are for the purpose of description and to avoid strict application or strict mathematical definition. By way of example, two surfaces that are “substantially parallel” may be strictly parallel or approximately parallel; A shape that is “substantially parallelogram” may be approximately parallelogram, but may not be exactly parallelogram, and may have, for example, rounded corners; "Generally vertical" includes, but is not limited to, exactly vertical. However, the absence of any word that clearly avoids a strict application or definition (in the detailed description and in the claims) does not necessarily imply that strictness is intended.

The multipurpose band described herein can be used in various portable electronic devices including various components. In some embodiments, for example, the band may include electrical components or moving parts, and may perform functions other than serving as a band and/or stand. However, in other embodiments, the band may not serve as a stand (i.e., it may not serve to support a portable electronic device), and instead, as a band for a portable electronic device or for a portable electronic device. It may play a role that is not necessarily related to its use as a stand.

As briefly mentioned above, disadvantages may be associated with the proliferation of auxiliary devices for use with portable electronic devices. For example, finding an auxiliary component or device and connecting it into a functional assembly can be cumbersome and inconvenient. When moving from one location to another, the components may have been misplaced, stored in an inaccessible location (eg, checked baggage), or simply forgotten or forgotten. In some cases, it may be desirable to integrate multiple functions (eg, camera and cell phone) into a single package. However, for practical reasons (eg, weight and size), it may not be desirable to integrate all auxiliary devices (eg, charging stand, remote display, auxiliary power storage device, information relay station) into a portable electronic device.

Certain portable electronic devices, such as smart phones (smart phones) and tablet computers, may be handheld for ease of use and portability. That is, the handheld device is sized and shaped to be held or held in a person's hand, and can be used while being held. Many portable electronic devices include orientation sensing devices, such as accelerometers, to detect the orientation of the device and display information in a corresponding orientation. Portable electronic devices are typically used in an orientation dependent on the application program running on the device. In addition, individual users may prefer to use the portable electronic device in one orientation for one purpose and another orientation for another purpose. Stands that facilitate moving the portable electronic device in different orientations are desirable to improve the ease of use of the portable electronic device to facilitate display to the user during charging and/or during data transfer.

A block diagram of an example of a portable electronic device 100 is shown in FIG. 1. The portable electronic device 100 includes a number of components such as a processor 102 that controls the overall operation of the portable electronic device 100. Examples of portable electronic devices 100 include pagers, cellular phones, cellular smartphones, wireless organizers, personal digital assistants (PDAs), wireless-capable notebook computers, tablet computers, mobile Internet devices, electronic navigation devices, or portable devices. And mobile or handheld wireless communication devices such as speakers. The portable electronic device 100 may also be a device that does not have a wireless communication function, such as a handheld electronic game, a digital photo album, a digital camera, a media player, or an e-book reader.

Communication functions, including data and voice communication, are performed through a communication subsystem 104 that may be configured to communicate wirelessly with the portable electronic device 100 and may include a wireless transmitter and receiver. Data received by the portable electronic device 100 is decompressed and decoded by the decoder 106. Communication subsystem 104 receives messages from wireless network 150 and transmits messages to wireless network 150. Wireless network 150 may be any type of wireless network, including, but not limited to, a data wireless network, a voice wireless network, and a network that supports both voice and data communications. A power storage component 142 that functions as a power source for portable electronic device 100, such as one or more rechargeable batteries, supplies power to portable electronic device 100. The portable electronic device 100 also incorporates charging circuitry (not shown) such as an induction coil and a power controller that may enable the power storage component 142 to be recharged wirelessly or via a physical electrical connection or both. Can include. As will be discussed below, some embodiments of the band may be used to deliver power to the portable electronic device 100 or to recharge the battery within the portable electronic device 100.

The processor 102 includes a random access memory (RAM) 108, a memory 110, a touch-sensitive display 118, one or more actuators, one or more force sensors, an auxiliary input/output (I/O) subsystem. Interacts with other components such as 124, data port 126, speaker 128, microphone 130, short-range communication 132, and other device subsystem 134. The touch sensitive display 118 includes an overlay 114 comprising one or more touch sensors coupled to the display 112 and at least one controller 116 used to interact with the processor 102. Input through the graphical user interface is typically provided through the touch-sensitive display 118. Information such as text, characters, symbols, images, icons, and other items that can be displayed or rendered on the portable electronic device 100 is displayed on the touch-sensitive display 118 through the processor 102. Processor 102 may also interact with orientation sensors, such as accelerometer 136, which may be used to detect the direction of gravity or gravity-induced reaction forces.

To identify a subscriber for network access, the portable electronic device 100 may use a Subscriber Identity Module/Removable User Identity Module (SIM/RUIM) card 138 to communicate with a network such as a wireless network 150. . As another alternative, user identification information may be programmed into memory 110.

The portable electronic device 100 includes an operating system 146 and a software program, application program, or component 148 that are executed by the processor 102 and are typically stored in a persistently updatable storage such as the memory 110. Includes. Additional applications or programs can be accessed via wireless network 150, auxiliary I/O subsystem 124, data ports 126, short-range communications 132, or any other device subsystem 134. Can be loaded in 100.

Received signals such as text messages, email messages, or web page downloads are processed by the communication subsystem 104 and input to the processor 102. Processor 102 processes the received signal for output to display 112 and/or to auxiliary I/O subsystem 124. Subscribers may generate data items (eg, email messages) that may be transmitted over wireless network 150 via communication subsystem 104. For voice communication, the overall operation of the portable electronic device 100 is similar. The speaker 128 outputs audible information converted from the electrical signal, and the microphone 130 converts the audible information into an electrical signal for processing.

The touch sensitive display 118 may be a capacitive touch sensitive display including one or more capacitive touch sensors included in the overlay 114. The capacitive touch sensor may comprise any suitable material such as indium tin oxide (ITO).

One or more touches, also referred to as touch contacts or touch events, may be detected by the touch sensitive display 118. The processor 102 may check the properties of the touch including the location of the touch. The touch position data may include data on a contact area or data on a single contact point (a point at or near the center of the contact area). The location of the detected touch may include x and y components (eg, horizontal and vertical components, respectively) for the view of the touch-sensitive display 118. Depending on the nature of the touch-sensitive display 118, a touch may be detected from any suitable input member, such as a finger, thumb, appendage, or other object (eg, stylus, pen, or other pointer). Multiple simultaneous touches may be detected.

Referring now to FIG. 2, the portable electronic device 100 includes a rear surface 160 that may include one or more features disposed on and/or recessed within the rear surface 160. . Such features may include digital camera device 162 and graphic elements 164 (which may include logos, registered trademarks or any text, symbols, or combinations thereof associated with portable electronic device 100). have. At least one (typically a plurality of) electrical connectors 166 are integrated proximate to the back 160, irrespective of the features disposed on the back 160 or recessed within the back 160. It is contemplated that the electrical connector 166 extends outwardly from the rear surface 160 in the form of a protrusion, as with other features of the rear surface 160.

As another alternative, one or more electrical connectors 166 may be integrated as recessed areas within back 160. Further, it is contemplated that the plurality of electrical connectors 166 include a combination of protrusions and depressions. In another embodiment, the plurality of electrical connectors 166 may form an entire surface of the same height as the rear surface 160. In addition, a plurality of electrical connectors 166 may be arranged in numerous arrangements, such as a relatively vertically aligned arrangement, but a plurality of electrical connectors 166 may be arranged in a relatively horizontal arrangement, an angled arrangement, a nonlinear arrangement and/or a cluster You will see that it can be arranged in an array. The above list of arrangements is merely representative of exemplary embodiments and is not intended to limit a particular arrangement of a plurality of electrical connectors 166.

At least one of the plurality of electrical connectors 166 is formed of a magnetic material. Each of the plurality of electrical connectors 166, as illustrated, typically includes an outer portion 168 that is visible from an external position of the rear surface 160, wherein the outer portion 168 is the outer portion of the rear surface 160 It is accessible from the location. Each of the plurality of electrical connectors 166 also includes an inner portion that communicates with an inner component of the portable electronic device 100 (eg, power storage component 142, etc.). The communication between the inner portion of each of the plurality of electrical connectors 166 and the power storage component 142 can be performed using individual contacts, selective plating, printed circuit boards (PCBs), wires, or any other suitable communication method known in the art. Made through.

Although a plurality of electrical connectors 166 may be disposed in various locations proximate to the rear surface 160, in the illustrated exemplary embodiment, it is contemplated that a plurality of electrical connectors 166 are disposed within the graphic element 164 have.

Referring now to Figures 3 and 4, the multi-purpose band 200 is shown in a stand configuration. The multipurpose band 200 includes a base link 202, an interface link 203, a stabilizer link 205, and a base link 202, an interface link 203 and a stabilizer. It includes one or more coupling links 204 disposed between the links 205. In one exemplary embodiment, the base link 202 is joined to the interface link 203 by an interface support hinge 207. (In general, components, whether detachably or substantially permanent, are attached to each other when physically bonded to each other or in any way so that the physical activity of one component generally affects the other. Or “bonded” when connected. Depending on the context, the components may be bonded to each other directly or through one or more intermediate elements. When the multipurpose band 200 is in a stand configuration, the interface support hinge 207 is a portable electronic device. It is configured to facilitate support of the device 100 in a desired orientation. More specifically, the interface support hinge 207 is a base link 202 and an interface link 203. May be configured to define a support angle 211 between them. According to this embodiment, support for the interface link 203 by the combination of the interface support hinge 207 and the base link 202, and thus the interface Link 203 is provided.

As mentioned above, the phrases "configured to be" and "configured to be" refer to a state of an element or feature capable of performing a specified function of the element or feature. Although an element or feature may not always perform a specified function, an element may be configured to perform a function. For example, from the above description of the interface support hinge 207, it is easy for the interface support hinge 207 to support the portable electronic device 100 in a desired orientation when the multipurpose band 200 is in a stand configuration. You know you can do it. Moreover, when the multipurpose band 200 is in a stand configuration, the interface support hinge 207 can facilitate supporting the portable electronic device 100 in a desired orientation-the interface support hinge 207 always does so. If not, you know well.

In an alternative embodiment, when the multipurpose band 200 is in a stand configuration, the support angle 211 may be defined by the orientation of the coupling link 204. According to this embodiment, the interface link 203 is supported by a mating link 204 that is compressed and located, and the mating link 204 serves as a kickstand 208 with respect to the interface link 203. Accordingly, this embodiment does not require that the interface link 203 is supported by the interface support hinge 207.

5 and 6, in one exemplary embodiment, the multipurpose band 200 may also be arranged in a band configuration for wearing on the user's wrist 300. To facilitate rearrangement from a stand configuration (such as those shown in Figs. 3 and 4) to a band configuration (such as those shown in Figs. 5 and 6) and/or from a band configuration to a stand configuration, Each link of the multipurpose band 200 (i.e., base link 202, interface link 203, stabilizer link 205, and one or more mating link links 204) is a hinged connector 215 Are bound to each other at respective edges 213 by means of. In other words, each of the base link 202, the interface link 203, the stabilizer link 205, and the mating link 204 defines two edges 213, each edge being by a hinge connector 215. It is bound to the edge 213 of the other base link 202, interface link 203, stabilizer link 205, or mating link 204. Each hinge connector 215 is selected from the group consisting of a base link 202, an interface link 203, a mating link 204, and a stabilizer link 205 to accommodate both a band configuration and a stand configuration. It is configured to facilitate a range of relative orientations (ie, the angles between them) of adjacent links (consisting of one or more links). More specifically, according to the embodiment shown in Fig. 5, the hinge connector 215 has an angle of about 100 degrees to 150 degrees between its associated links (i.e., the base link 202 and the interface link 203). It is structured to make it easy. As a result, the multipurpose band 200 can be rearranged from a band configuration to a stand configuration.

In one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the support angle 211 may be defined by a combination of two or more interface support hinges 207. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the base link 202 is fastened to the engaging link 204 by a first interface support hinge 207a. The coupling link 204 is bound to the interface link 203 by a second interface support hinge 207b. The first interface support hinge 207a and the second interface support hinge 207b together define a support angle 211 at which the portable electronic device 100 is disposed. According to this embodiment, when the multipurpose band 200 is in a stand configuration, the stabilizer 219 is installed to extend from the base link 202 in a direction substantially parallel to the base link 202. When the multipurpose band 200 has a band configuration, the stabilizer 219 may be configured to be retracted (ie, occupy a retracted position). For example, the stabilizer 219 may be configured to slide into a cavity 217 defined in the base link 202 or rotate to a retracted position aligned with the base link 202 and along its side. have.

It will be appreciated that the desired orientation of the interface link 203 may be tilted at a support angle 211 away from the vertical V. For example, one preferred angle is about 30 degrees from vertical V, which allows the portable electronic device 100 to be supported with a convenient viewing angle that is also stable. Other orientations are possible, including about 0 degrees from vertical to only about 15 degrees from horizontal H. Another exemplary orientation is about 45 degrees. Accordingly, the exact angular range provided by the support hinges 207 may vary, but is generally combined to define the desired support angle 211.

Each link (i.e., base link 202, interface link 203, one or more coupling links 204, and stabilizer link 205) has an outer surface (herein, each of the base outer surface 210, Interface surface 212, mating outer surface 214, and stabilizer outer surface 216]. In addition, each link (i.e., base link 202, interface link 203, one or more coupling links 204, and stabilizer links 205) has an inner surface (herein, each of the base inner surface 218, an interface inner surface 220, a mating inner surface 222, and a stabilizer inner surface 224]. In addition, when the multi-purpose band 200 is in a band configuration, the base inner surface 218, the interface inner surface 220, the coupling inner surface 222, and the stabilizer inner surface 224 are formed through the multi-purpose band 200. It defines the passage 230 that extends. The passage 230 is sized to fit comfortably in the user's hand or foot in order to facilitate wearing the multi-purpose band 200 on the user's wrist 300 or ankle. Accordingly, the multipurpose band 200 can be carried on the user's wrist 300 or ankle, thereby reducing undesirable aspects that move with auxiliary devices such as a charging stand.

It will be appreciated that the surfaces, in particular the base outer surface 210, the interface surface 212, and the stabilizer outer surface 216, may be relatively flat or may include varying degrees of curvature. At least one charging feature 240 is disposed on the interface link 203 in proximity to the interface surface 212. It will be appreciated that the charging feature may be any physical structure that operates to facilitate charging (ie, transfer of energy to) a charge-receiving structure, such as portable electronic device 100. To facilitate energy transfer (i.e., electrical or electromagnetic coupling) between the charging feature 240 and the portable electronic device 100, the charging feature 240 is a pair of the charging feature and the portable electronic device 100. It may be configured to facilitate setting of a charging relationship between mating features (electrical connectors, etc.). The charging features may include electrodes, induction coils, conductors, electrical connectors, electrically conductive terminals, wireless power transfer coils for transmitting power to an inductive pad included in a mating smartphone, and the like. Similar to the plurality of electrical connectors 166 of the back side 160 of the portable electronic device 100, the plurality of charging features 240 extend outwardly from the interface surface 212 in the form of protrusions or the interface surface 212 ), it is thought to be integrated as a submerged area. It is also contemplated that the plurality of filling features 240 include a combination of protrusions and depressions. In addition, the plurality of filling features 240 may be arranged in a number of arrangements. However, it will be appreciated that the plurality of filling features 240 may be arranged in a relatively angular arrangement, a nonlinear arrangement, and/or a clustered arrangement. The above listing of arrangements is merely representative of exemplary embodiments and is not intended to limit a specific arrangement of a plurality of charging features 240.

Regardless of the exact configuration of the plurality of charging features 240, a corresponding relationship is established between the plurality of charging features 240 and the plurality of electrical connectors 166, and the portable electronic device 100 and the multipurpose band ( 200) is easily engaged. In order to ensure proper alignment and orientation between the portable electronic device 100 and the multipurpose band 200, a portion of the plurality of charging features 240 is formed of a magnetic material.

Engagement between the multipurpose band 200 and the portable electronic device 100 is facilitated by the magnetic attraction of the plurality of electrical connectors 166 and the plurality of charging features 240. The magnetic material that forms the plurality of electrical connectors 166 and the plurality of charging features 240 makes structural connections in the exact orientation desired by the user (ie, “portrait” or “horizontal”), as described below. While maintaining, it facilitates electrical connection between the multipurpose band 200 and the portable electronic device 100. The strength of magnetic attraction depends on a specific application in consideration of factors such as the weight and geometry of the portable electronic device 100. In general, the magnetic attraction is greater than the gravity of the portable electronic device 100 at the center of gravity of the portable electronic device 100, and thus the center of gravity of the portable electronic device 100 ) To ensure that it stays within the periphery. The magnetic attachment between the portable electronic device 100 and the multipurpose band 200 facilitates readily available attachment and detachment functions, which advantageously reduces the cumbersome procedures associated with inserting components into mating receptacles. Let it. This attachment provides greater adaptability of the versatile band 200 to engage a wide variety of portable electronic devices.

3 and 7, the multipurpose band 200 is illustrated as being in a supporting relationship with the portable electronic device 100. In the illustrated embodiments, the base outer surface 210 of the base link 202 and the stabilizer outer surface 216 of the stabilizer link 205 are shown to be in contact with and above the substantially planar horizontally oriented surface. have.

When engaged, the multipurpose band 200 can provide support to position the portable electronic device 100 in a desired orientation. However, an exemplary embodiment including a plurality of charging features 240 provides an electrical connection between the multipurpose band 200 and the portable electronic device 100. The present invention provides that the multipurpose band 200 functions as an interchangeable element between the charging source and the portable electronic device 100. Accordingly, the multipurpose band 200 provides structural robustness to the portable electronic device 100 while still facilitating charging. When the multi-purpose band 200 is in operable communication with a power source or when the band power storage component 242 is disposed in the multi-purpose band 200, such electrical connection is advantageous. Either configuration provides for the delivery of power to the portable electronic device 100 and more specifically to the power storage component 142 disposed therein. It will be appreciated that a direct physical connection between a plurality of charging features 240 and a plurality of electrical connectors 166 can facilitate power transfer from the multipurpose band 200 to the portable electronic device 100. However, it is contemplated that a wireless connection such as induction can adequately deliver power to the power storage component 142.

The multipurpose band 200 is configured to support the portable electronic device 100 in a plurality of orientations. The first orientation is illustrated and corresponds to a relatively vertical orientation of the portable electronic device 100. A relatively vertical orientation can be referred to as a "vertical" orientation. As shown and discussed in detail above, the interface surface 212 engages the back surface 160 of the portable electronic device 100, while at least a portion of the base outer surface 210 of the base link 202 is on a horizontal surface. Is in. In order to provide the desired orientation of the portable electronic device 100, the interface surface 212 of the interface link 203 is formed as a substantially flat surface. In a stand configuration, the interface surface 212 is positioned at an angle from vertical to define the angular orientation of the portable electronic device 100. This feature can take the form of various other embodiments by varying the angle to achieve the desired longitudinal orientation to provide the desired orientation.

It will be appreciated that the portable electronic device 100 may be disposed in a substantially horizontal orientation (which may be referred to as a "landscape" orientation). Accordingly, the portable electronic device 100 will be rotated 90 degrees to rearrange the portable electronic device 100 from a vertical orientation to a horizontal orientation. Angling of the interface surface 212 allows the multipurpose band 200 to provide reliable support of the portable electronic device 100 after this reorientation of the portable electronic device 100 from a horizontal orientation to a vertical orientation. Allows you to do it.

As will be appreciated, the described and illustrated embodiments provide a number of alternative orientations that can be achieved by manipulation of the multipurpose band 200 and portable electronic device 100. In addition, it is contemplated that the geometry of the multipurpose band 200 may be modified to provide an alternative orientation. It will be appreciated that the multipurpose band 200 provides multiple orientations in which the portable electronic device 100 can rest. The plurality of orientations allows a user to selectively determine a preferred orientation of the portable electronic device 100-which is typically different for each use of the portable electronic device 100.

Referring now to FIG. 7, the multipurpose band 200 includes a power port 280 (shown as a blind bore) configured to receive a wired power source such as a power cord 282. Includes. In the illustrated embodiment, the power port 280 is disposed within the coupling link 204, but the power port 280 is the base link 202, the interface link 203, the stabilizer link 205, the coupling link 204. ), or in any of the stabilizers 219. One or more electrical connections (not shown) extend from the power port 280 to the plurality of charging features 240, thereby delivering power to the plurality of externally exposed charging features 240.

In one exemplary embodiment, the multipurpose band 200 facilitates wireless transmission of information between the multipurpose band 200 and the portable electronic device 100. In addition, the multipurpose band 200 includes a wireless power transfer coil for the transmission of power to an inductive pad contained within a mating smartphone (e.g., Q1 wireless charging standard), thereby providing a portable electronic device ( 100) facilitates wireless charging. In addition, the multipurpose band 200 facilitates conversion into a plurality of configurations including a stand configuration and a band configuration.

In one exemplary embodiment, the multipurpose band 200 includes six or seven links that can be configured by the user as a bracelet or as a charging stand. In one exemplary embodiment, the multipurpose band 200 powers one of the links to provide power to the multipurpose band 200 (i.e., the base link 202, the interface link 203, the coupling link 204). Or a USB interface connected to the end of the stabilizer link 205]. In one exemplary embodiment, the multipurpose band 200 includes a power transfer coil for wireless charging of nearby devices (e.g., according to the Q1 charging standard, which provides charging at distances in the range of up to 40 mm. ).

In one exemplary embodiment, the multipurpose band 200 is configured to perform a number of functions including: (a) serving as a wrist mountable interface to the portable electronic device 100; (b) serving as a charging stand for the portable electronic device 100; And/or (c) serving as a wristband/bracelet/watch. To facilitate serving as a wrist mountable interface for the portable electronic device 100, the multipurpose band 200 is configured to provide a display for viewing information received from the portable electronic device 100 via a wireless connection. There may be. As such, the multipurpose band 200 can be worn as a watch or bracelet while providing a display of information accessed through a wireless connection.

1. A multipurpose band 200 for use with the portable electronic device 100, including a base link 202, an interface link 203, and a coupling link 204, wherein the base link 202 supports an interface. The interface support hinge 207 is joined to the interface link 203, the coupling link 204 is coupled between the base link 202 and the interface link 203; The multi-purpose band 200 is configured to be arranged in a band configuration to be worn on the user's wrist 300 or ankle and in a stand configuration to support the portable electronic device 100 at a support angle 211, and a support angle ( 211) is defined between the base link 202 and the interface link 203; Interface link 203 defines interface surface 212; The base link 202 defines the base inner surface 218, the interface link 203 defines the interface inner surface 220, and the mating link 204 defines the mating inner surface 222; The base inner surface 218, the interface inner surface 220, and the mating inner surface 222, when arranged in a band configuration, define a passage 230 that extends through the multipurpose band 200, and the passage 230 ) Is a multi-purpose band 200 that is sized to facilitate wearing the multi-purpose band 200 on the wrist 300 or the ankle.

2. The method of clause 1, further comprising a charging feature (240) disposed on the interface link (203) proximate the interface surface (212), wherein the charging feature (240) comprises: a charging feature ( 240 and the electrical connector 166 of the portable electronic device 100 are configured to facilitate establishing a charging relationship between the charging feature 240 and the electrical connector 166 There is a multi-purpose band (200).

3. The multipurpose band (200) of clause 2, wherein the filling feature (240) comprises a magnetic material.

4. The multipurpose band (200) according to clause 3, wherein the magnetic material is configured to facilitate engagement between the multipurpose band (200) and the portable electronic device (100).

5. The multipurpose band (200) of clause 1, further comprising a band power storage component (242) disposed in a base link (202), an interface link (203), or a coupling link (204).

6. The multipurpose band (200) of clause 2, comprising a power port (280) configured to receive wired power.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein the power port (280) is disposed within a coupling link (204), a base link (202), or an interface link (203); The multipurpose band 200 in which the electrical connection extends from the power port 280 to the charging feature 240.

8. The method of claim 2, wherein the charging feature (240) is configured to deliver power to the portable electronic device (100) through a direct physical connection between the charging feature (240) and at least one of the electrical connector (166). There is a multi-purpose band (200).

9. The multipurpose band (200) of clause 2, wherein the charging feature (240) is configured to deliver power to the portable electronic device (100) via a wireless connection.

10. The multipurpose band (200) of clause 9, wherein the charging feature (240) comprises a wireless power transfer coil for transmitting power to the inductive pad of the portable electronic device (100).

11. The multipurpose band (200) of clause 1, further comprising a communication subsystem (104) configured to communicate wirelessly with a portable electronic device (100).

12. The method of claim 1, wherein the interface support hinge (207) defines the support angle (211) between the base link (202) and the interface link (203), and is supported when the multipurpose band (200) is in a stand configuration. Multipurpose band 200 in which support for the interface link 203 is provided at an angle 211.

13. The multipurpose band (200) according to clause 1, wherein the coupling link (204) is arranged as a pedestal (208) to define a support angle (211) between the base link (202) and the interface link (203). The multi-purpose band 200 that is provided with support for the interface link 203 at a support angle 211 when the are arranged in a stand configuration.

14. The method of clause 1, wherein each of the base link (202), the interface link (203), and the mating link (204) defines two edges (213), and each of the two edges (213) is a hinge connector ( By a hinged connector 215, the other base link 202, the interface link 203, the stabilizer link 205 or the edge 213 of the coupling link 204 are bound, and the multipurpose band 200 is a band configuration. Multi-purpose band 200 that is configured to be rearranged in a stand configuration from.

15. The method of claim 1, wherein the base link (202) is bound to the engaging link (204) by means of a first interface support hinge (207a); The coupling link 204 is bound to the interface link 203 by a second interface support hinge 207b; The first interface support hinge 207a and the second interface support hinge 207b together define a support angle 211 at which the interface link 203 is disposed.

16. The addition of a stabilizer (219) arranged to extend in a direction substantially parallel to the base link (202) from the base link (202) when the multipurpose band (200) is in a stand configuration. Multi-purpose band 200, including as.

17. The multi-purpose band (200) according to claim 16, wherein when the multi-purpose band (200) has a band configuration, the stabilizer (219) is configured to be retracted.

18. The multipurpose band (200) according to clause 16, wherein when the multipurpose band (200) is in a band configuration, the stabilizer (219) is configured to slide into a cavity (217) defined in the base link (202). ).

19. Paragraph 16, wherein when the multipurpose band (200) is in a band configuration, the stabilizer (219) is aligned with the base link (202) and is configured to occupy a retracted position along its side. Multi-purpose band 200.

20. The multipurpose band (200) according to clause 1, wherein the support angle (211) is deviated from the vertical.

While several embodiments have been provided in the present disclosure, it will be appreciated that the disclosed systems and methods may be embodied in many other specific forms without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. The examples are to be regarded as illustrative rather than limiting, and should not be viewed as limiting to the details given herein. For example, various elements or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or certain features may be omitted or not implemented.

In addition, techniques, systems, subsystems, and methods described and illustrated as being separate or separate in various embodiments may be combined or integrated with other systems, modules, techniques, or methods without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Can be. Other items shown or discussed as being coupled or directly coupled or communicating with each other, whether electrical, mechanical, or otherwise, may be indirectly coupled or in communication via any interface, device, or intermediate component. Other examples of changes, substitutions, and modifications may be identified by those skilled in the art, and may be made without departing from the spirit and scope disclosed herein.

Claims (20)

A versatile band for use with portable electronic devices,
A base portion, an interface portion, and a coupling portion; And
A charging feature disposed on the interface portion proximate the interface surface
Including,
The base portion 202 is joined to the interface portion by an interface support hinge, the engaging portion being engaged between the base portion and the interface portion;
The multi-purpose band is configured to be worn on a user's wrist or ankle, and is configured to be arranged in a stand configuration for supporting the portable electronic device at a support angle, and the support angle is between the base part and the interface part. Is defined in;
The interface portion defines an interface surface;
The base portion defines a base inner surface, the interface portion defines an interface inner surface, and the engagement portion defines a mating inner surface;
The base inner surface, the interface inner surface, and the mating inner surface, when arranged in the band configuration, define a passage extending through the multi-purpose band, and the passage to wear the multi-purpose band on the wrist or ankle. Sized to facilitate things;
Wherein the charging feature is configured to establish a charging relationship between the charging feature and the electrical connector to facilitate engagement between the charging feature and the electrical connector of the portable electronic device. . The multipurpose band of claim 1, wherein the charging feature comprises a material configured to facilitate engagement between the multipurpose band and the portable electronic device. The method of claim 1, further comprising a band power storage component disposed in at least one of the base portion, the interface portion, or the coupling portion,
Wherein the band power storage component stores power for charging a battery in the portable electronic device. The method of claim 1, further comprising a power port configured to receive wired power,
The power port is disposed within the coupling portion, the base portion, or the interface portion;
Wherein the electrical connection extends from the power port to the charging feature. The multipurpose band of claim 1, wherein the charging feature is configured to deliver power to the portable electronic device through a direct physical connection between the charging feature and at least one of the electrical connector or an auxiliary power source. The multipurpose band of claim 1, wherein the charging feature is configured to deliver power to the portable electronic device via a wireless connection. 7. The multipurpose band of claim 6, wherein the charging feature comprises a wireless power transfer coil for transmitting power to an inductive pad of the portable electronic device. 2. The multipurpose band of claim 1, further comprising a communication subsystem configured to wirelessly communicate with the portable electronic device. The method of claim 1, wherein the interface support hinge portion defines the support angle between the base portion and the interface portion, and when the multipurpose band is in a stand configuration, support for the interface portion is provided at the support angle. Multi-purpose band. The method of claim 1,
The engaging portion is disposed as a pedestal to define the support angle between the base portion and the interface portion, and when the multi-purpose band is arranged in the stand configuration, support for the interface portion is provided at the support angle. Multi-purpose band. The method of claim 1, wherein each of the base portion, the interface portion, and the mating portion defines two edges, and each of the two edges is, by a hinged connector, another base portion, an interface portion, A multipurpose band, which is bound to an edge of a stabilizer portion or a coupling portion, and wherein the multipurpose band is configured to rearrange from the band configuration to the stand configuration. The method of claim 1, wherein the base portion is bound to the engaging portion by a first interface support hinge;
The engaging portion is bound to the interface portion by a second interface support hinge;
The first interface support hinge and the second interface support hinge together define the support angle at which the interface portion is disposed. The multi-purpose band according to claim 1, further comprising a stabilizer disposed to extend from the base portion in a direction substantially parallel to the base portion when the multi-purpose band is in the stand configuration. 14. The multipurpose band according to claim 13, wherein when the multipurpose band is configured in the band configuration, the stabilizer is configured to be retracted. 14. The multipurpose band of claim 13, wherein when the multipurpose band is in the band configuration, the stabilizer is configured to slide into a cavity defined by the base portion. 14. The multipurpose band of claim 13, wherein when the multipurpose band is in the band configuration, the stabilizer is arranged to be aligned with the base portion and to occupy a retracted position along its side. The multipurpose band of claim 1, wherein the support angle is deviated from the vertical. In the portable electronic device,
A multipurpose band that can be configured with at least one of at least a band configuration and a stand configuration-the band configuration supports wearing the portable electronic device on a wrist or ankle, and the stand configuration is at one or more viewing angles desired by a user of the portable electronic device. Supporting the portable electronic device, wherein the one or more viewing angles are defined between the base portion and the interface portion of the multi-purpose band; And
A charging component integrated with the interface portion of the multipurpose band-the charging component, when set, the engagement between the charging component and the electrical connector facilitates the charging component to charge the portable electronic device So, configured to establish a charging relationship with the electrical connector of the portable electronic device-
Including,
The multipurpose band includes at least one coupling portion coupled between the base portion and the interface portion, and when the multipurpose band is arranged in the band configuration, the band portion, the interface portion, and at least one coupling portion Defines a passage extending through the multi-purpose band, the passage being sized to facilitate wearing the multi-purpose band on a wrist or ankle. The portable electronic device of claim 18, further comprising a connector configured to selectively attach and detach the portable electronic device to the multi-purpose band, wherein the portable electronic device is a smart phone or a smart watch. The method of claim 18, further comprising a power storage component disposed in the multipurpose band, wherein the power storage component is configured to deliver power through the charging component to charge a battery of the portable electronic device, The power storage component is configured to be recharged with at least one of wirelessly and via a wired power source.

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