Electrical and mechanical connection mechanisms

An electronic device and an attachment element that includes one or more electronic components each include connection mechanisms. The connection mechanisms of the electronic device and the attachment element may be engaged to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device and the attachment element. Such electrical connection may electrically couple the one or more electrical components of the attachment element to the electronic device. The connection mechanisms may utilize one or more of a variety of different mechanical connection mechanism such as one or more snap mechanisms, twist mechanisms, threaded mechanisms, detent mechanisms, spring mechanisms, slide mechanisms, magnetic mechanisms, and/or any other mechanism for mechanical and electrical attachment.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a 35 U.S.C. § 371 application of PCT Patent Application No. PCT/US2013/078169, filed Dec. 29, 2013 and titled “Electrical and Mechanical Connection Mechanisms,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates generally to connection mechanisms, and more specifically to connection mechanisms that electrically and mechanically connect devices to attachment elements.

BACKGROUND

Attachment elements are frequently utilized to couple devices to body parts of users and/or other objects. Such attachment elements may include bands, belts, straps, and other such elements and such devices may include watch bodies, belt buckles, backpacks, and/or other such devices. For example, a watch band may be utilized to couple a watch to the wrist, ankle, arm, and so on of a user. In this way, the device may be releasably attached to a user's body part or other object.

In some cases, the device may be mechanically attached to the attachment element(s) utilizing one or more connection mechanisms. Such connection mechanisms may be releasably attachable in some cases such that the device may be attached and/or detached from the attachment element. Regardless, such connection mechanisms operate to mechanically attach the attachment element to the device.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure discloses systems and methods for electrically and mechanically connecting devices and attachment elements. One or more electronic devices and one or more attachment elements that include one or more electronic components may each include one or more connection mechanisms. The connection mechanisms of the electronic device and the attachment element may be engaged to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device and the attachment element. Such electrical connection may electrically couple the one or more electrical components of the attachment element to the electronic device.

The electronic device may be any kind of electronic device such as an electronic watch, a laptop computer, a digital media player, a cellular phone, a smart phone, a mobile computing device, a tablet computing device, a pedometer, a heart rate and/or other body status monitor, and/or any other such electronic device. The attachment element may be any kind of attachment element that can couple the electronic device to a body part of a user and/or other object such as one or more bands, straps, and/or other such attachment element.

The connection mechanisms may utilize one or more of a variety of different mechanical connection mechanisms. Such mechanical connection mechanisms may include a variety of different snap mechanisms, twist mechanisms, threaded mechanisms, detent mechanisms, spring mechanisms, slide mechanisms, magnetic mechanisms, and/or any other mechanism for mechanical attachment. The connection mechanisms may also utilize one or more of a variety of different wired and/or wireless electrical connection mechanisms. Such electrical connection mechanism may include one or more electrical contacts and/or any other mechanism for electrical connection. In some cases, the mechanical connection mechanism may be the same mechanism as the electrical connection mechanism.

The electronic component of the attachment element may be any kind of electronic component that may be electrically coupled to the electronic device. Such electronic components may include one or more batteries, connection adapters and/or other cables, storage components, computing components, communication components, global positioning systems, barcode readers, credit card processing units, scanners, printers, displays, speakers, microphones, and/or any other electronic component that may be utilized with the electronic device.

Additionally, the attachment element and/or the electronic device may be coupleable to one or more other electronic devices. Such other electronic devices may be electrically and/or mechanically attachable to the attachment element and/or the electronic device. In cases where the other electronic devices are electrically coupled to one of the attachment element or the electronic device, the electronic device may also be electrically coupled to the other of the attachment element or the electronic device via the directly connected device.

In one or more implementations, a system for connecting electronic devices and attachment elements includes: at least one electronic device including at least one first connection mechanism and at least one attachment element including: at least one second connection mechanism and at least one electronic component; wherein the at least one electronic device and the at least one attachment element are mechanically and electrically attachable by engaging the at least one first connection mechanism with the at least one second connection mechanism such that the at least one electronic device is electrically coupled to the at least one electronic component.

In various implementations, a method for connecting electronic devices and attachment elements includes: engaging a first connection mechanism of at least one electronic device with a second connection mechanism of at least one attachment element; mechanically attaching the at least one electronic device to the at least one attachment element utilizing the first connection mechanism and the second connection mechanism; and electrically connecting the at least one electronic device to the at least one attachment element utilizing the first connection mechanism and the second connection mechanism.

In some implementations, a method for disconnecting electronic devices and attachment elements includes: disengaging a first connection mechanism of at least one electronic device from a second connection mechanism of at least one attachment element; mechanically detaching the at least one electronic device from the at least one attachment element utilizing the first connection mechanism and the second connection mechanism; and electrically disconnecting the at least one electronic device from the at least one attachment element utilizing the first connection mechanism and the second connection mechanism.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are for purposes of example and explanation and do not necessarily limit the present disclosure. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate subject matter of the disclosure. Together, the descriptions and the drawings serve to explain the principles of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The description that follows includes sample systems, methods, and computer program products that embody various elements of the present disclosure. However, it should be understood that the described disclosure may be practiced in a variety of forms in addition to those described herein.

The present disclosure discloses systems and methods for electrically and mechanically connecting devices and attachment elements. One or more electronic devices and one or more attachment elements that include one or more electronic components may each include one or more connection mechanisms. The connection mechanisms of the electronic device and the attachment element may be engaged to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device and the attachment element. Such electrical connection may electrically couple the one or more electrical components of the attachment element to the electronic device.

The electronic device may be any kind of electronic device such as an electronic watch, a laptop computer, a digital media player, a cellular phone, a smart phone, a mobile computing device, a tablet computing device, a pedometer, a heart rate and/or other body status monitor, and/or any other such electronic device. The attachment element may be any kind of attachment element that can couple the electronic device to a body part of a user and/or other object such as one or more bands, straps, and/or other such attachment element.

The connection mechanisms may utilize one or more of a variety of different mechanical connection mechanisms. Such mechanical connection mechanisms may include a variety of different snap mechanisms, twist mechanisms, threaded mechanisms, detest mechanisms, spring mechanisms, slide mechanisms, magnetic mechanisms, and/or any other mechanism for mechanical attachment. The connection mechanisms may also utilize one or more of a variety of different wired and/or wireless electrical connection mechanisms. Such electrical connection mechanism may include one or more electrical contacts and/or any other mechanism for electrical connection. In some cases, the mechanical connection mechanism may be the same mechanism as the electrical connection mechanism.

The electronic component of the attachment element may be any kind of electronic component that may be electrically coupled to the electronic device. Such electronic components may include one or more batteries, connection adapters and/or other cables, storage components, computing components, communication components, global positioning systems, barcode readers, credit card processing units, scanners, printers, displays, speakers, microphones, and/or any other electronic component that may be utilized with the electronic device.

Additionally, the attachment element and/or the electronic device may be coupleable to one or more other electronic devices. Such other electronic devices may be electrically and/or mechanically attachable to the attachment element and/or the electronic device. In cases where the other electronic devices are electrically coupled to one of the attachment element or the electronic device, the electronic device may also be electrically coupled to the other of the attachment element or the electronic device via the directly connected device.

FIG. 1Ais a side cross sectional view of a first embodiment of a system100for connecting an electronic device101to an attachment element102utilizing an electromechanical snap connection mechanism105and106.

The system100includes an electronic device101(which may be any kind of electronic device) and an attachment element102. As illustrated, the attachment element102is a bracelet-style band. However, it is understood that this is an example and that in various implementations the attachment element may be any kind of attachment element.

The electronic device101may include a housing103and/or one or more electronic components104. Such electronic components may include one or more processing units, one or more communication components, one or more non-transitory storage media (which may take the form of, but is not limited to, a magnetic storage medium; optical storage medium; magneto-optical storage medium; read only memory; random access memory; erasable programmable memory; flash memory; and so on), and/or any other electronic component. The attachment element102may also include one or more electronic components112, which may be any kind of electronic component such as one or more batteries, connection adapters and/or other cables, storage components, computing components, communication components, global positioning systems, barcode readers, credit card processing units, scanners, printers, displays, speakers, microphones, and/or any other electronic component.

As illustrated, the electronic device101may also include conductive elements109and a connection mechanism105. The connection mechanism105may include a plug105that includes notches108and contacts110. Each notch108can be defined by a base portion130positioned at a base131of notch108, and overhang portions132and134extending from base portion130. The conductive elements109may electrically couple the contacts109to the electronic component104.

As also illustrated, the attachment element102may also include conductive elements111and a connection mechanism106. The connection mechanism106may include spring104loaded detents113. The conductive elements111may electrically couple the electronic component112to the detents113.

The electronic device101may be attachable to the attachment element102by engaging the connection mechanisms105and106. Such connection may mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device101and the attachment element102and may be accomplished by inserting the connection mechanism105into the connection mechanism106.

When the connection mechanism105is inserted into the connection mechanism106, the spring114loaded detents113may be compressed by the plug107until the spring114loaded detents113are able to enter the notches108. The spring114loaded detents113present in the notches108may mechanically connect the electronic device101to the attachment element102until sufficient force is exerted to again compress the springs114such that the plug107can be removed from the connection mechanism106.FIG. 1Billustrates the system100ofFIG. 1Aafter the electromechanical snap connection mechanism105and106is utilized to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device101to the attachment element102.

Additionally, while the spring114loaded detents113are present in the notches108, the detents113may contact the contacts110positioned in base portion130at base131of notch108. This may electrically connect the electronic components112and104via the conductive elements111and109.

Although the connection mechanism105is illustrated and described above as including the plug107, it is understood that this is an example. In various implementations, the connection mechanism106may instead include a plug that is inserted into the connection mechanism105without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Further, though the connection mechanism105is illustrated with two notches108, it is understood that this is an example. In various cases, the connection mechanism105may include a variety of notches108such that the electronic device101may be attached to the attachment element102in a variety of different orientations. For example, the electronic device101may include a display that has both a landscape and portrait orientation and the connection mechanism105may include notches108to enable the electronic device to be attached to the attachment element102such that either the portrait or landscape orientations of the display are presented to a user when the attachment element102is attached to a body part of the user.

Additionally, though the attachment element102is illustrated as a bracelet-style band that may enable the electronic device101to be attached and/or detached without removing the bracelet-style band, it is understood that this is an example. In various cases, the attachment element102may be any kind of attachment element, such as one or more bands, straps, and/or any other attachment element.

In some cases, the attachment element102may not include at least one electronic component112and may not have any associated functionality. In other cases, the attachment element102may include one or more electronic components112and may have associated functionality only when electrically and/or mechanically connected to the electronic device101(and/or other electronic devices and/or other attachment elements). In still other cases, the attachment element102may include one or more electronic components112and may have associated functionality regardless whether or not the attachment element102is electrically and/or mechanically connected to the electronic device101(and/or other electronic devices and/or attachment elements). In such cases, such functionality may alter when the attachment element102is electrically and/or mechanically connected to the electronic device101(and/or other electronic devices and/or attachment elements).

By way of a first example, the electronic component112may be one or more batteries (which may be rechargeable and/or replaceable). Such a battery (which may be a large capacity battery to offer maximum power life for attachment elements102designed for multi day travel and/or small capacity batteries in order to result in minimum volume and weight for attachment elements102designed for active situations such as an outdoor run) may function to extend a battery life of the electronic device101when the attachment element102is electrically and/or mechanically connected to the electronic device101. Additionally, such a battery may function to power various features and/or components of the attachment element102regardless whether or not the attachment element102is electrically and/or mechanically connected to the electronic device101, only when the attachment element102is electrically and/or mechanically connected to the electronic device101, only when the attachment element102is not electrically and/or mechanically connected to the electronic device101, and so on.

By way of a second example, the electronic component112may be one or more antennas (such as a near field communication antenna, a Bluetooth antenna, a WiFi antenna, and/or other such antenna). Such an antenna may enable the antenna to not have to be included in the electronic device101, enabling the electronic device101to be smaller (since long antennas may be required) and/or made from different materials (since materials such as metals may interfere with antenna communications). In some cases, such antennas may interface with radiofrequency modules included in the electronic device101, though in other cases such radiofrequency modules may be included in the attachment element102.

By way of a third example, the electronic component112may be one or more global positioning system components or systems. Such a component may provide similar benefits to attachment elements102that include antennas. In some cases, the global positioning system may include a storage component (such as flash storage and/or other storage) for storing map data, a travel log, and/or other such data. In various cases, the global positioning system may operate independently of the electronic device101such that global positioning system data may be logged until the attachment element102is reconnected to the electronic device101. Such a case may enable a user to go out for a run with the attachment element102but not the electronic device101but still be able to record the route travelled.

By way of a fourth example, the electronic component112may be one or more displays. Such displays may be an E-ink display, an organic light emitting diode display light emitting diode display, and/or other kind of displays or light up indicators. Such a display may be an extension of a display of the electronic device101and/or may display particular data (e.g. battery life, local weather, user biometric stats, artwork and/or other aesthetic designs or displays) and may or may not continue to display such data regardless of whether or not the attachment element102is electronically and/or mechanically connected to and/or disconnected from the electronic device101. In some cases, an E-ink display may continue to display an image or design (with or without power) when disconnected from the electronic device101. In various cases, one or more light emitting diodes may blink or illuminate in other ways to make a user visible in darkness and/or dim illumination.

By way of a fifth example, the electronic component112may be one or more microphone and/or speaker combinations. Inclusion of such elements in the attachment element102may enable the electronic device101to be significantly smaller due to the large back volume that may be required for a speaker. Additionally, the electronic device101may be waterproof or water resistant when the attachment element102is not electrically and/or mechanically connected as speakers and/or microphones may require one or more acoustic ports to allow sound to travel in and/or out. Moreover, beam-forming microphone configurations may be enabled by spacing multiple microphones on the attachment element102at greater distances than may be available in the electronic device101.

By way of a sixth example, the electronic component112may be one or more storage devices, such as data storage devices. Such storage devices may be removable (such as a secure digital card or other removable storage device) and/or fixed. In this way, different attachment elements102may contain different data (such as different music playlists, map data, confidential data, and/or other such data). In some cases, attachment elements102storing music may be bought as an album and/or a user may store their own music. In various cases, map data may be protected to only work with a particular application or component on the electronic device101. In one or more cases, confidential data may be unlocked by a password or a biometric signature (such as a fingerprint, photoplethysmographic data, or other biometric). In some cases, personal passwords such as passwords to enter websites, unlock a computer, use near field communication payment, unlock a car or house, and so on) may be stored by an attachment element102.

By way of a seventh example, the electronic component112may be one or more user interface controls. In some cases, an attachment element102may extend the input and/or output functionality of the electronic device101by offering controls that may not fit and/or may not be included in the electronic device101. Such controls may be in the form of one or more buttons, capacitive touch sensors, slide switches (such as a ringer switch), force-sensitive pads, and/or any other controls. Functionality of such controls may include volume controls, media controls, starting and/or stopping of data logging (e.g. biometric data, location data, and/or other data), and/or any other user interface functionality.

By way of an eighth example, the electronic component112may be one or more sensors. Such sensors may extend electronic device101functionality by including specialized sensors not included in the electronic device101. Examples of such sensors may include one or more inertial sensors, compasses, pressure sensors, biometric sensors, fingerprint readers, thermometers, ultraviolet sensors, cameras, radiation detectors, breathalyzers, and/or any other such sensors. Some sensors, such as thermometers or compasses, may experience improved operation when removed from thermal and/or magnetic sources contained within the electronic device101. Other sensors (such as photoplethysmographic biometric sensors) may experience improved operation specific placement (e.g. the underside of a user's wrist) which may not be accessible from electronic device101. In some cases, sensors (e.g. galvanic skin response sensors, electrocardiogram sensors, and/or other such sensors) may be contained within the electronic device101and electrodes associated with such may be included in the attachment element102. Some sensors, such as a camera may be too large to include in the electronic device101itself and may thus be located on the attachment element102. Other sensors, such as a radiation detector or a breathalyzer, may be useful to too few users to justify including in the electronic device101and may thus be included in the attachment element102.

By way of a ninth example, the electronic component112may be one or more charging components. Such charging components may extend the battery life of the electronic device101and/or the attachment element102by including ways to charge the electronic device101and/or the attachment element102during use. In some implementations, chargers such as solar cells may enable charging via solar energy. In other implementations, chargers such as kinetic chargers may enable charging via movement or vibration. In still other implementations, chargers such as thermal generators (such as a Peltier device) may enable charging via the thermal gradient between one or more parts of a user's body and the ambient temperature.

By way of a tenth example, the attachment element102may include one or more non-electrical components. Functionality of such components may not directly interact with the electronic device101. Examples of such may include a wallet to store money or other items, a pocket to store keys or other items, and so on.

FIG. 2Ais a side cross sectional view of a second embodiment of a system200for connecting an electronic device201to an attachment element202utilizing an electromechanical snap connection mechanism205and206.

The system200includes an electronic device201and an attachment element202. The electronic device201may include a housing203, one or more electronic components204, a conductive element209, and a connection mechanism205that includes a plug207, notches208, and a contact210. The attachment element202may include a conductive element211, one or more electronic components212, and a connection mechanism206that includes a contact215and spring214loaded detents213.

The system200may be similar to the system100ofFIG. 1Aexcept that the connection mechanism206does not extend all the way through the attachment element202and the electrical connection between the electrical component204and the electrical component212may be formed by connection between the contacts210and215instead of the spring214loaded detents213.

FIG. 2Billustrates the system200ofFIG. 2Aafter the electromechanical snap connection mechanism205and206is utilized to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device201to the attachment element202.

Though the attachment element202is illustrated as an unbroken band, it is understood that this is an example. In various implementations, such a band may include one or more portions that may be connected by one or more connector mechanisms such as one or more buckles, snaps, magnets, and/or other such connector mechanisms without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Further, though the connection mechanism205is illustrated and described as having a single contact210and the connection mechanism206is illustrated and described as having a single contact215, it is understood that the connection mechanism205and/or the connection mechanism206may have any number of contacts210and215(such as one, four, or fifteen) without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3Ais a side cross sectional view of a third embodiment of a system300for connecting an electronic device301to an attachment element302utilizing an electromechanical threaded twist connection mechanism305and306.

The system300includes an electronic device301and an attachment element302. The electronic device301may include a housing303, one or more electronic components304, conductive elements309, and a connection mechanism305that includes threads308and contacts310. The attachment element302may include conductive elements311, one or more electronic components312, and a connection mechanism306that includes contacts315and threads318.

As contrasted with the system200ofFIG. 2A, the connection mechanism305may be connected to the connection mechanism306by engaging the threads308with the threads318. This may enable the electronic device301to “screw” onto the attachment element302and may cause the contacts310to contact the contacts315.

FIG. 3Billustrates the system300ofFIG. 3Aafter the electromechanical threaded twist connection mechanism305and306is utilized to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device301to the attachment element302.

Further, with reference again toFIG. 3A, the attachment element302may include a connector315that is electrically coupled to the electronic component312via a conductive element314. The connector315may be any kind of a connector such as a universal serial bus connector and/or any other kind of connector. Such a connector315may be coupleable to one or more other electronic devices (such as a computing device, a power source, and so on) to the electrical component312for purposes of electrical connection, communication connection, charging, and so on. Further, by connecting the electric component312to the other electronic device, the connector315may be operable to indirectly connect the electronic device301to the other electronic device.

As illustrated, the connector315may be located at a gap in the attachment element302that includes connection mechanisms316and317and an aperture317. These elements may enable the connector315to be inserted into the aperture317and the gap to be closed by the connection of the connection mechanisms316and317. As also illustrated, the connection mechanisms316and317may be magnetic elements that each include one or more polarity portions (which may be dynamically controllable). The magnetic elements of the connection mechanisms316and317may be configured such that the connection mechanisms316and317attract, allowing the illustrated gap to be releasably sealed (as illustrated inFIG. 3B).

FIG. 4Ais a side cross sectional view of a fourth embodiment of a system400for connecting an electronic device401to an attachment element402utilizing an electromechanical toe-in snap connection mechanism405.

The system400includes an electronic device401and an attachment element402. The electronic device401may include a housing403, one or more electronic components404, a conductive element409, and contact410. The attachment element402may include a conductive element411, one or more electronic components412, and a connection mechanism405that includes prongs406.

As contrasted with the system300ofFIG. 3A, the connection mechanism405may be connected to the electronic device401itself by sliding one edge of the electronic device401under one of the prongs406and snapping the other edge of the electronic device401under the other of the prongs406. In this case, the electronic device401itself may be the connection mechanism of the electronic device401as the prongs406mechanically connect the electronic device401to the attachment element402by restraining the entire electronic device401.

FIG. 4Billustrates the system400ofFIG. 4Aafter the electromechanical toe-in snap connection mechanism405is utilized to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device401to the attachment element402. As illustrated, after connection, the contact410may contact the contact413.

Although the system400is illustrated and described as snapping at least part of the electronic device401into the connection mechanism405of the attachment element402, it is understood that this is an example. In various cases, at least a portion of the attachment element402may snap into a connection mechanism of the electronic device401without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5Ais a side cross sectional view of a fifth embodiment of a system500for connecting an electronic device501to an attachment element502utilizing an electromechanical snap connection mechanism505and506.

The system500includes an electronic device501and an attachment element502. The electronic device501may include a housing503, one or more electronic components504, conductive elements509, and a connection mechanism505that includes a plug507, apertures508, and contacts510. The attachment element502may include a conductive element511, one or more electronic components512, and a connection mechanism506that includes prongs514with contacts513.

As contrasted with the system400ofFIG. 4A, the connection mechanism505may be connected to the connection mechanism506by pressing the plug507down to pry open the prongs514. The prongs514may then enter the apertures508such that the contacts510contact the contacts513.

FIG. 5Billustrates the system500ofFIG. 5Aafter the electromechanical snap connection mechanism505and506is utilized to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device501to the attachment element502.

Although the system500is illustrated and described as snapping a plug507of the connection mechanism505using prongs514of the connection mechanism506, it is understood that this is an example. In various cases, the attachment element502may include a plug and the electronic device601may include prongs without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6Ais a side cross sectional view of a sixth embodiment of a system600for connecting an electronic device601to an attachment element602utilizing an electromechanical twist connection mechanism605and606.

The system600includes an electronic device601and an attachment element602. The electronic device601may include a housing603, one or more electronic components604, a conductive element609, and a connection mechanism605that includes a plug607, pins608, and a contact610. The attachment element602may include a conductive element611, one or more electronic components612, and a connection mechanism606that includes a track613and a contact615.

As contrasted with the system500ofFIG. 5A, with reference toFIG. 6B, the attachment element602may include aperture614that enable the pins608to be inserted into the track613. With reference toFIG. 6C, the pins608may then be moved along the track613away from the apertures614, mechanically connecting the connection mechanism606to the connection mechanism605may be connected to the connection mechanism606. This may cause the contact610to contact the contact615.

As the pins608have moved along the track613away from the apertures614, the pins608may not be able to leave the track613unless the pins608are moved back along the track613to the apertures614, in this way, the electronic device601may be mechanically and electrically connected to the attachment element602.

Although the system600is illustrated and described the connection mechanism605including the pins608and the connection mechanism606including the track613and the apertures614, it is understood that this is an example. In various cases, the attachment element602may include pins and the electronic device601may include one or more tracks and/or apertures without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7Ais a side cross sectional view of a seventh embodiment of a system700for connecting an electronic device701to an attachment element702utilizing an electromechanical slide connection mechanism705and706.

The system700includes an electronic device701and an attachment element702. The electronic device701may include a housing703, one or more electronic components704, a conductive element709, and a connection mechanism705that includes a plug707and a contact710. The attachment element702may include a conductive element711, one or more electronic components712, and a connection mechanism706that includes a contact713.

As contrasted with the system600ofFIG. 6A, with reference toFIG. 7B, the attachment element702may include aperture714that enable the plug707to be inserted by sliding or similar motion into the connection mechanism706from the side. With reference toFIG. 7C, the plug707may then be moved into the connection mechanism706. This may cause the contact710to contact the contact713. As the plug707occupies the connection mechanism706, the electronic device701may be mechanically and electrically connected to the attachment element702until the plug707is slid back out of the connection mechanism706.

Although the system700is illustrated and described the connection mechanism705including the plug707that can be slid into the connection mechanism706, it is understood that this is an example. In various cases, the attachment element702may include a plug that may be slid into the connection mechanism705without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8Ais a side cross sectional view of an eighth embodiment of a system800for connecting an electronic device801to an attachment element802utilizing an electromechanical magnetic connection mechanism.

The system800includes an electronic device801and an attachment element802. The electronic device801may include a housing803, one or more electronic components804, a conductive element809, and a magnetic contact element810. The attachment element802may include a conductive element811, one or more electronic components812, and a magnetic contact element813.

As contrasted with the system700ofFIG. 7A, the magnetic contact elements810and813may each include one or more polarized portions and one or more electrical contact portions. The polarized portions (which may be dynamically controllable) of the magnetic contact elements810and813may be configured to oppose such that the magnetic contact elements810and813attract each other. When this attraction causes the magnetic contact elements810and813to contact, the respective electrical contact portions may contact such that the electrical device801and the attachment element802are electrically and mechanically connected. In this way, the magnetic contact elements810and813may simultaneously be mechanical and electrical connection mechanisms.

FIG. 8Billustrates the system800ofFIG. 8Aafter the electromechanical magnetic connection mechanism of the magnetic contact elements810and813is utilized to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device801to the attachment element802.

As illustrated inFIG. 8C, the electronic device801and the attachment element802may be indirectly connected mechanically and electrically by one or more intermediate electronic devices820. Such an intermediate electronic device may be any electronic device that includes at least one electrical component823, conductive elements822, and first and second magnetic contact elements821and824.

As illustrated, the electronic device801and the attachment element802may be indirectly connected mechanically and electrically by the intermediate electronic devices820by the magnetic contact element810mechanically and electrically coupling to the first magnetic contact element821and the magnetic contact element813mechanically and electrically coupling to the second magnetic contact element824. In this way, the electrical and mechanical connection between the electronic device801and the attachment element802may be formed via one or more modular components.

Although the system800is illustrated and described as including a single set of magnetic contact elements810and813, it is understood that this is an example. In various cases, the any number of magnetic contact elements may be utilized without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Further, although the system800is illustrated and described with respect toFIG. 8Cas including a single intermediate component820, it is understood that this is an example. In various cases, any number of intermediate components may be utilized without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9Ais a side cross sectional view of a ninth embodiment of a system900A for connecting an electronic device901to an attachment element902utilizing an electromechanical magnetic connection mechanism.

Similar to the system800ofFIG. 8A, the system900A includes an electronic device901and an attachment element902. The electronic device901may include a housing903, one or more electronic components904, a conductive element909, and a magnetic contact element910. The attachment element902may include a conductive element911, one or more electronic components912, and a magnetic contact element913.

As contrasted with the system800ofFIG. 8A, the attachment element902may include one or more additional magnetic contact elements920that may electrically and/or mechanically connect the attachment element802to one or more additional electronic devices930. Such additional electronic devices930may include a housing926, one or more electronic components929, a conductive portion928, and a magnetic contact927.

Although the system900A is illustrated and described as having two additional magnetic contact elements920, it is understood that this is an example. In various cases, the attachment element may include any number of additional magnetic contact elements920such as one, three, or thirty) without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Further, although the magnetic contact elements920are illustrated and described as magnetic contact elements, it is understood that this is an example. In various cases, any mechanical and/or electrical connection mechanism may be utilized to connect additional electronic devices to the attachment element902.

FIG. 9Bis a side cross sectional view of a first alternative version900B of the ninth embodiment of the system900A ofFIG. 9A. Instead of additional electronic devices930, one or more magnetic contact elements920may be utilized to mechanically and/or electrically connect one or more additional attachment elements922(which may be made of hard, form-fitting materials, soft materials such as rubber, and/or any other such materials) to the attachment element902. Such additional attachment elements922may include one or more electronic components925, a conductive element924, and a magnetic contact element923.

Further, although the additional attachment element922is illustrated and described as having magnetic contact elements923for electrically and/or mechanically connecting to the attachment element902, it is understood that this is an example. In various cases, additional attachment elements922may each have additional connection mechanisms for electrically and/or mechanically connecting to one or more additional connection mechanisms and/or additional electronic components. In such cases, attachment mechanisms and/or electronic devices may be stacked in sequence and may be electrically and/or mechanically connected to additional attachment elements922.

Additionally, although the additional attachment element922is illustrated and described as having magnetic contact elements923for electrically and/or mechanically connecting to the attachment element902and the attachment element902is illustrated and described as having magnetic contact elements920for electrically and/or mechanically connecting to the attachment element902, it is understood that this is an example. In various cases, additional attachment elements920and/or attachment element902may each have various connection mechanisms for electrically (such as via electrical copper, copper and/or other contacts, wirelessly such as via Bluetooth or other wireless communication technology, optical signals, acoustic signals, magnetic induction, and so on) and/or mechanically (such as one or more magnets, mechanical snaps, electro-magnetic connectors, Velcro, and/or other such connectors) connecting to the attachment element902, the electronic device901, one or more additional connection mechanisms, and/or additional electronic components in a variety of series, parallel, and/or otherwise arrangements. In such cases, attachment mechanisms and/or electronic devices may be stacked in sequence and may be electrically and/or mechanically connected to one or more of each other.

Moreover, though the additional attachment element922is illustrated as an entire band that does not couple to the electronic device901, it is understood that this is an example. In some implementations, additional attachment elements922may comprise segments of a band that may be attached to the attachment element902(and/or the electronic device901such as where a group of segments is utilized instead of the attachment element902) in a single and/or multiple layers in a variety of positions (such as where attachment elements922and/or902have various contacts disposed in a variety of positions on one or more sides). In various implementations, additional attachment elements922may or may not electrically and/or mechanically connect to the electronic device901in addition to the attachment element902. In some implementations, the placement and/or number of electrical and/or mechanical connectors on additional attachment elements922, the attachment element902, and/or the electronic device901may function to limit the number of these items that may be coupled together and/or which out of a group of these items may be coupled together at a particular time.

In various cases, the attachment element902and/or the additional attachment element922may be associated with one or more functions. In such cases, the attachment element902and/or the additional attachment element922may be color and/or otherwise coded to indicate such functions. In some cases, the attachment element902and/or the additional attachment element922may also be color and/or otherwise coded based on aesthetic considerations, to enable users to make a statement regarding personality, and so on.

FIG. 9Cis a top view of a second alternative version900C of the ninth embodiment of the system ofFIG. 9A. As compared with900B, instead of additional attachment elements922being wrapped and/or otherwise being arranged around the attachment element902the attachment elements922and/or the attachment element902may include one or more components (such as the additional magnetic contacts920and the magnetic contact elements923) positioned on the sides of the attachment elements922and/or the attachment element902. As illustrated, such components may enable the attachment elements922to be electrically and/or mechanically connected to the attachment element902in a sideways configuration.

In some implementations, electrical and/or mechanical attachment of multiple attachment elements902and922may enable one or more combined functionalities. In some cases, such combined functionality may be enabled when at least one of the attachment elements902and/or922are electrically and/or mechanically attached to the electronic device901. However, in other cases such combined functionality may be enabled the attachment elements902and/or922are not electrically and/or mechanically attached to the electronic device901. Such combined functionality may be enabled from a plurality of various attachment elements902and/or922, multiple attachment elements902and/or922to be worn at one time by a user (and/or connected via contacts, wireless, connections and so on), or by a singular attachment element902and/or922with multiple functions.

By way of a first example, such combined functionality may include the combination of a microphone and speaker. Such a combination may enable telephone applications which may and/or may not be dependent on the electronic device901for wired and/or wireless connection and/or power.

By way of a second example, such combined functionality may include the combination of a microphone, speaker, and camera. Such a combination may enable one or more videoconferencing and/or other video call applications which may and/or may not be dependent on the electronic device901for wired and/or wireless connection and/or power.

By way of a third example, such combined functionality may include the combination of a global positioning system, a battery, and data storage. Such a combination may enable applications such as location tracking of a jogger. In some cases, such an application may be independent of the electronic device901, though data may be uploaded to the electronic device901when reconnected.

By way of a fourth example, such combined functionality may include the combination of a near field communication antenna and a fingerprint reader. Such a combination may enable applications such as a secure wallet which may and/or may not be dependent on the electronic device901for data and/or power.

By way of a fifth example, such combined functionality may include the combination of a near field communication antenna, data storage, and a battery. Such a combination may enable applications such as a portable wallet which may and/or may not be independent of the electronic device901. Financial information such as credit card information may be viewed and/or changed when reconnected to the electronic device901in some implementations.

By way of a sixth example, such combined functionality may include the combination of one or more biometric sensors, one or more output components (such as speakers, displays, light emitting diodes, and so on), and one or more wireless communication components (such as Win, 4G, and so on). Such a combination may enable integrated health monitoring devices. Such devices may be programmed with threshold sensor values (e.g. a hear rate level or other values) by a doctor and exceeding these thresholds may trigger doctor-approved instructions (e.g. “Please call your doctor”), set off an alert (e.g. waking a sleep apnea patient), and so on. Data may immediately be sent to a user's doctor, to emergency services, and so on via wireless communication. Application of such a device may be at a patient's home, in a hospital where vitals data may be continuously streamed for various patients (such as patients awaiting doctors in the emergency room), and so on.

FIG. 10Ais a side cross sectional view of a tenth embodiment of a system1000for connecting an electronic device1001to an attachment element1002utilizing an electromechanical snap connection mechanism1005and1006.

Similar to the system100ofFIG. 1A, the system1000includes an electronic device1001and an attachment element1002. The electronic device1001may include a housing1003, one or more electronic components1004, conductive elements1009, and a connection mechanism1005that includes a plug1007, notches1008, contacts1010. The attachment element1002may include conductive elements1011, one or more electronic components1012, and a connection mechanism1006that includes spring1014loaded detents1013.

Contrasted with to the system100ofFIG. 1A, the system1000includes one or more electrically conductive holes1015. As illustrated, such electrically conductive holes1015may extend through the thickness of the attachment element1002. However, such electrically conductive holes1015may not extend through the width of the attachment element1002such that the attachment element1002is not separated into pieces. As such, the electrically conductive holes1015may allow passage through the attachment element1002while still electrically connecting the various portions of the conductive elements1011.

FIG. 10Billustrates the system1000ofFIG. 10Aafter a plug1021of one or more additional electronic devices1016is inserted into at least one of the electrically conductive holes1015. As illustrated, the additional electronic device1016may include a housing1017, one or more electronic components1018, a conductive portion1019, and a plug1021with a contact1020.

As illustrated, the plug1021may be tapered such that it may be inserted into and/or removed from the electrically conductive hole1015under the application of force, but may otherwise mechanically connect the additional electronic device1016to the attachment element1002absent the application of such force. Further, when the plug1021is inserted into the electrically conductive hole1015, the contact1020may contact the electrically conductive hole1015.

Further, although the attachment element1002is illustrated and described as having electrically conductive holes1015for electrically and/or mechanically connecting to additional electronic devices1016, it is understood that this is an example. In various cases, the attachment elements1002may each have other connection mechanisms for electrically and/or mechanically connecting to one or more additional electronic devices1016.

Further, although the system1000is illustrated and described as electrically and/or mechanically connecting two additional electronic devices1016to the attachment element1002, it is understood that this is an example. In various cases, any number of additional electronic devices1016may be so connected (such as one, three, or fifteen) without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Additionally, although the various systems illustrated inFIGS. 1A-10Bare illustrated and described above as utilizing various connection mechanisms, it is understood that these are examples. In various implementations, various connection mechanisms described herein and illustrated in the accompanying figures may be combined into a single implementation without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11is a flow chart illustrating a method1100for connecting a device to an attachment element utilizing a connection mechanism. This method may be performed utilizing any of the systems ofFIGS. 1A-10B.

The flow may begin at block1101and proceeds to block1102where a connection mechanism of at least one electronic device is engaged with a connection mechanism of at least one attachment device.

The flow then proceeds to block1103where the electronic device is mechanically attached to the attachment element utilizing the respective connection mechanisms of the electronic device and the attachment element. The flow then proceeds block1104where the electronic device is electrically attached to the attachment element utilizing the respective connection mechanisms of the electronic device and the attachment element.

Although the method1100is illustrated as including particular operations performed in a particular order, it is understood that this is an example. In various implementations, various orders of the same, similar, and/or different operations may be performed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, though the operations1103and1104of mechanically and electrically attaching the electronic device and attachment element are illustrated and described as distinct operations performed in a linear order, in various implementations such operations may be combined into a single, simultaneous operation.

FIG. 12is a flow chart illustrating a method1200for disconnecting a device from an attachment element utilizing a connection mechanism. This method may be performed utilizing any of the systems ofFIGS. 1A-10B.

The flow may begin at block1201and proceeds to block1202where a connection mechanism of at least one electronic device is disengaged from a connection mechanism of at least one attachment device.

The flow then proceeds to block1203where the electronic device is mechanically detached from the attachment element utilizing the respective connection mechanisms of the electronic device and the attachment element. The flow then proceeds to block1204where the electronic device is electrically disconnected from the attachment element utilizing the respective connection mechanisms of the electronic device and the attachment element.

Although the method1200is illustrated as including particular operations performed in a particular order, it is understood that this is an example. In various implementations, various orders of the same, similar, and/or different operations may be performed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, though the operations1203and1204of mechanically detaching and electrically disconnecting the electronic device from the attachment element are illustrated and described as distinct operations performed in a linear order, in various implementations such operations may be combined into a single, simultaneous operation.

As described above and illustrated in the accompanying figures, the present disclosure discloses systems and methods for electrically and mechanically connecting devices and attachment elements. One or more electronic devices and one or more attachment elements that include one or more electronic components may each include one or more connection mechanisms. The connection mechanisms of the electronic device and the attachment element may be engaged to mechanically and electrically connect the electronic device and the attachment element. Such electrical connection may electrically couple the one or more electrical components of the attachment element to the electronic device.