ANTENNA

An electronic watch can include a housing sidewall defining an internal volume. The electronic watch can include a printed circuit board (PCB) disposed within the internal volume. The electronic watch can include an electrically conductive connector contacting the PCB. The electronic watch can include an elongate conductive member disposed along a portion of a perimeter of the housing sidewall. The elongate conductive member can include a first contact feature electrically coupling the elongate conductive member and the electrically conductive connector at a first position along a length of the elongate conductive member. The first contact feature can include a bulge. The elongate conductive member can include a second contact feature electrically coupling the elongate conductive member and the housing sidewall at a second location along the length of the elongate conductive member.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to electronic devices. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to wearable electronic devices.

BACKGROUND

Electronic devices are increasingly being designed with device portability in mind to allow users to use these devices in a wide variety of situations and environments. In the context of wearable devices, these devices can be designed to include many different functionalities and to be operated in many different locations and environments. The components of an electronic device, for example the processors, memory, antennas, display, and other components, can partially determine a level of performance of the electronic device. Further, the arrangement of these components with respect to one another in the device can also determine the level of overall performance of the electronic device.

Continued advances in electronic devices and their components have enabled considerable increases in performance. Existing components and structures for electronic devices can, however, limit the levels of performance of such devices. For example, while some components can achieve high levels of performance in some situations, the inclusion of multiple components in devices sized to enhance portability can limit the performance of the components and thus the performance of the device. Consequently, further tailoring an arrangement of components for electronic devices to provide additional or enhanced functionality, without introducing or increasing undesirable device properties, can be desirable.

SUMMARY

In one example of the present disclosure, an electronic watch can include a housing sidewall defining an internal volume. The electronic watch can include a printed circuit board (PCB) disposed within the internal volume. The electronic watch can include an electrically conductive connector contacting the PCB. The electronic watch can include an elongate conductive member disposed along a portion of a perimeter of the housing sidewall. The elongate conductive member can include a first contact feature electrically coupling the elongate conductive member and the electrically conductive connector at a first position along a length of the elongate conductive member. The first contact feature can include a bulge. The elongate conductive member can include a second contact feature electrically coupling the elongate conductive member and the housing sidewall at a second location along the length of the elongate conductive member.

In at least one example, the bulge extends toward the PCB.

In at least one example, the elongate conductive member further includes a third contact feature electrically coupling the elongate conductive member and the electrical connector at a third position along the length of the elongate conductive member. The elongate conductive member further includes a fourth contact feature electrically coupling the elongate conductive member and the housing sidewall at a fourth location along the length of the elongate conductive member.

In at least one example, the elongate conductive member includes a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The first end and the second end are coupled to the housing sidewall.

In at least one example, the elongate conductive member is coupled to the housing sidewall at a third position along the length of the elongate conductive member.

In at least one example, the housing sidewall includes a conductive upper portion, a conductive lower portion, and an insulating middle portion between the conductive upper portion and the conductive lower portion.

In at least one example, the electronic watch further includes an antenna having a radiating element and a grounding element. The radiating element includes the conductive upper portion. The grounding element includes the conductive lower portion.

In at least one example, the conductive upper portion defines an opening. The electronic watch further includes a display assembly disposed within the opening. The conductive upper portion surrounds a perimeter of the display assembly and extends above the display assembly.

In at least one example, the electronic watch further includes a seal disposed around the perimeter of the housing sidewall between the conductive lower portion and the display assembly. The seal can define a depression at the first position corresponding to the first contact feature.

In one example of the present disclosure, an antenna assembly can include a housing defining an internal volume. The housing can include an upper housing portion and a lower housing portion electrically isolated by a middle housing portion. The antenna assembly can include printed circuit board (PCB) disposed within the internal volume. The antenna assembly can include an elongate conductive member disposed along a portion of an inner perimeter of the upper housing portion. The elongate conductive member can include a first protrusion electrically contacting the PCB at a first location along a length of the elongate conductive member. The first protrusion can include a tensioning arm. The elongate conductive member can further include a second protrusion contacting the upper housing portion at a second location along the length of the elongate conductive member.

In at least one example, the antenna assembly can further include an electrical conductor creating a conductive path coupled to the PCB and contacting the first protrusion at the first location.

In at least one example, the first protrusion further includes a bulge extending toward the PCB and away from the housing.

In at least one example, the first protrusion and the second protrusion extend from the elongate conductive member in opposite directions.

In at least one example, the antenna assembly further includes a seal disposed around a perimeter of a housing and defining a depression corresponding to the first protrusion.

In at least one example, the antenna assembly further includes display module coupled to the PCB and disposed within an opening defined by the upper housing portion, wherein the elongate conductive member is disposed between the upper housing portion and the display module.

In at least one example the antenna assembly further includes a radiating element including the upper housing portion. The antenna assembly further includes a grounding element including the lower housing portion.

In one example of the present disclosure, an electronic device can include a conductive housing defining an internal volume. The electronic device can further include a printed circuit board (PCB) disposed within the internal volume. The electronic device can further include a spacer disposed along a first portion of an inner perimeter of the conductive housing sidewall. The electronic device can further include a conductive band disposed along a second portion of the inner perimeter of the conductive housing sidewall. A first end of the conductive band is removably coupled to the conductive housing sidewall at a first position along the spacer. A second of the conductive band is removably coupled to the conductive housing sidewall at a second position along the spacer.

In one example, the spacer includes a first feature to receive the first end of the conductive band and a second feature to receive the second end of the conductive band.

In one example, the conductive band includes a first plurality of bulges disposed along a length of the conductive band and forming electrical connections with the PCB. The conductive band also includes a second plurality of bulges disposed along the length of the conductive band and forming electrical connects with the conductive housing sidewall.

In one example, the electronic device further includes an antenna having a radiating element and a grounding element. The radiating element includes an upper portion of the conductive housing sidewall. The grounding element includes a lower portion of the conductive housing sidewall.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following disclosure generally relates to electronic devices. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to wearable electronic devices. The wearable electronic devices of the present disclosure include tailored arrangements of components to provide additional or enhanced functionality, without introducing or increasing undesirable device properties or performance. In this way, more functionality and componentry can be included in wearable devices for users to wear and operate in any condition or activity without limiting the functionality and durability of the devices.

In one example, an electronic watch can include a housing sidewall defining an internal volume. The electronic watch can include a printed circuit board (PCB) disposed within the internal volume. The electronic watch can include an electrically conductive connector contacting the PCB. The electronic watch can include an elongate conductive member disposed along a portion of a perimeter of the housing sidewall. The elongate conductive member can include a first contact feature electrically coupling the elongate conductive member and the electronic connector at a first position along a length of the elongate conductive member. The first contact feature can include a bulge. The elongate conductive member can include a second contact feature electrically coupling the elongate conductive member and the housing sidewall at a second location along the length of the elongate conductive member. In one example, such an arrangement can allow an upper portion of the housing to act as a radiating element and a lower portion of the housing to act as a grounding element of an antenna. An increased vertical distance between the radiating element and the grounding element can improve antenna performance and stability. The elongate conductive member can electrically couple these elements of the antenna, which are formed from the structural housing (e.g., upper and lower portions noted above), thus improving antenna performance, durability, and compactness of the device.

These and other examples are discussed below with reference toFIGS.1-13.

However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. Furthermore, as used herein, a system, a method, an article, a component, a feature, or a sub-feature comprising at least one of a first option, a second option, or a third option should be understood as referring to a system, a method, an article, a component, a feature, or a sub-feature that can include one of each listed option (e.g., only one of the first option, only one of the second option, or only one of the third option), multiple of a single listed option (e.g., two or more of the first option), two options simultaneously (e.g., one of the first option and one of the second option), or combination thereof (e.g., two of the first option and one of the second option).

FIG.1Ashows an example of an electronic device100, according to one example. The electronic device shown inFIG.1Acan be a watch, such as a smartwatch or an electronic watch. The electronic device100ofFIG.1Ais merely one representative example of a device that can be used in conjunction with the systems and methods disclosed herein. For example, the electronic device100can correspond to any form of wearable electronic device, a portable media player, a media storage device, a portable digital assistant (“PDA”), a tablet computer, a computer, a mobile communication device, a GPS unit, a remote-control device, or other electronic device. The electronic device100can also be referred to as a consumer device. In some examples, the electronic device100can include a housing102that can carry operational components, for example, in an internal volume at least partially defined by the housing102. An elongate conductive member (ECM)126can be disposed within the housing102, as will be detailed herein. The electronic device100can also include a strap104, or other retaining component that can secure the electronic device100to a body of a user as desired. Further details of the electronic device are provided below with reference toFIG.1B.

FIG.1Billustrates the electronic device100, for example a smartwatch or an electronic watch, that can be substantially similar to and can include some or all of the features of the devices described herein, including the electronic device100shown inFIG.1Abut without the strap104. The device100can include a housing102, and a display assembly106attached to the housing102. The housing102can substantially define at least a portion of an exterior surface of the device100.

In some examples, the housing102can be a substantially continuous or unitary component and can define one or more openings to receive components of the electronic device100. In some examples, the electronic device100can include input components such as one or more buttons108and/or a crown110that can be disposed in the openings. In some examples, a material can be disposed between the buttons108and/or crown110and the housing102to provide an airtight and/or watertight seal at the locations of the openings. The housing102can also define one or more openings or apertures, such as aperture112that can allow for sound to pass into or out of the internal volume defined by the housing102. For example, the aperture112can be in communication with a microphone component disposed in the internal volume. In some examples, the housing102can define or include a feature, such as an indentation to removably couple the housing102and a strap or retaining component.

FIG.1Cshows a bottom perspective view of the electronic device100. The electronic device100can include a back cover114that can be attached to the housing102, for example, opposite the display assembly106. The back cover114can include ceramic, plastic, metal, or combinations thereof. In some examples, the back cover114can include an at least partially electromagnetically transparent component116. The electromagnetically transparent component116can be transparent to any desired wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation, such as visible light, infrared light, radio waves, or combinations thereof. In some examples, the electromagnetically transparent component116can allow sensors and/or emitters disposed in the housing102to communicate with the external environment. Together, the housing102, display assembly106and back cover114can substantially define an internal volume and an external surface of the device100.

As noted above, portable and/or wearable electronic devices can be designed for use in many different environments and during any kind of activity throughout a user's day. For example, wearable electronic watches, headphones, and phones can be carried by a user during exercise, sleep, driving, biking, hiking, swimming, diving, outside in the rain, outside in the sun, and so forth. Wearable electronic devices described herein are configured to withstand the varied and often harsh conditions of various environments, including changing environments and wet environments. Wet environments can include wearing devices in the rain or when submerged during bathing or swimming, for example. Such devices transmit and/or receive signals via an antenna of the electronic device. Accordingly, there is need for the antenna to function consistently and reliably. As described herein, the ECM126can provide such functionality.

Examples of electronic devices disclosed herein include components, features, arrangements, and configurations that resists damage and corrosion due to exposure to moisture. Some aspects of devices described herein can include gaps between components through which moisture, water, or other fluids could enter. The gaps may be present for aesthetic purposes or for functional purposes. However, one or more components, including seals (such as pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSAs)), insulating materials and frames, and other components of devices described herein can be configured to prevent such moisture from entering the internal volume of the device where sensitive electronic component could be damaged thereby.

FIGS.2A-2Billustrate right and left perspective views, respectively, of an electronic watch200including a housing202with housing sidewalls228, according to one example. In some examples, the electronic device200can be a smartwatch. The sidewalls228can define an opening in which a display cover222is disposed. The electronic watch200can include a securement strap204configured to secure the electronic watch200to an appendage of the user.

The sidewalls228can define an upper peripheral edge of the electronic watch200, which surrounds the display cover222. In particular, the sidewalls228can include an upper portion232, a lower portion234, and a middle portion236. The upper portion232can define an upper peripheral edge surround the display cover222. The middle portion236can be disposed between the upper portion232and the lower portion234.

In at least one example, the display cover222defines a top surface disposed in a plane. The plane can be flush with or set below the upper peripheral edge of the sidewalls228. In this way, when the wearable electronic device200contacts a surface or object at or near the upper surface of the display cover222and/or the upper peripheral edge of the sidewalls228, contact and potential damage to the display cover222can be reduced. In one example, the display cover222is set flush with or below the upper peripheral edges of the sidewalls228to protect the display cover222from damage.

In at least one example, as shown inFIG.2A, the sidewalls228can define a first side of the electronic watch200having a recessed feature in which a crown210is positioned. The crown210can be a part of a turn dial button or other functional knob configured to be manipulated by the user. The crown210can be disposed in the recessed portion, as noted above, such that first side of the sidewalls228extend outward and at least partially around the crown210. In this way, contacts and bumps against of other objects against the first side of the sidewall228during use can contact the sidewall228without pressing or turning the crown210. In this way, the recessed portion of the first side of the sidewalls228prevents inadvertent manipulation of the crown210. The button209shown inFIG.2Acan also be at least partially surrounded by an outwardly extending portion of the sidewall228, such that the button209is disposed within a recess thereof, to protect the button209form inadvertent contacts.

In at least one example, as shown inFIG.2B, the sidewalls228can define a second side opposite the first side shown inFIG.2A. In such an example, the wearable electronic device200can include a first speaker vent247, a second speaker vent249, and a button208disposed between the first speaker vent247and the second speaker vent249. The first speaker vent247and second speaker vent249can provide fluid communication from a common speaker volume behind the sidewall228(e.g., within an internal volume defined by the sidewalls228) and the external environment. The button208can be disposed between the first speaker vent247and the second speaker vents249to save space and provide a compact design without interrupting the functionality of the one or more speakers communicating with the external environment through the first speaker vent247and the second speaker vent249.

The electronic watch200includes a display assembly206, which includes the display cover222. The electronic watch200includes the housing202, a back cover214, and an electromagnetically transparent component216. The housing202, the back cover214, the electromagnetically transparent component216, and the display cover222can define an internal volume203. In at least one example, the housing sidewalls228define the internal volume203.

In addition, the exploded view ofFIG.2Cillustrates various internal components that can be disposed within the internal volume203. For example, the electronic watch200can include one or more printed circuit boards (PCBs)218and one or more antenna components220, as well as electrical connectors and flexes, buttons, seals, gaskets, memory components, processors, sensors, dials, batteries, and so forth disposed within the internal volume203.

FIG.2Dillustrates an exploded view of the housing202and the display assembly206of the electronic watch200, according to one example. As depicted inFIG.2D, the display assembly206is further exploded to illustrate the display cover222and display layers224. In addition,FIG.2Dillustrates an ECM226. In at least one example, the ECM226is a wave ring. A wave ring can refer to an example of an ECM in which electrical contacts can be made between the housing and the PCB as resulting from an undulation or circumferential variation (e.g., wave). The ECM226will be described and discussed in more detail hereafter with reference to other figures.

The housing202defines an opening230and at least partially defines the internal volume. In particular, the upper portion232of the sidewall228can define the opening230. When assembled, the display assembly206and/or one of the components of the display assembly206can be disposed in the opening230to form an outer surface of the electronic watch200and at least partially define the internal volume.

In at least one example, the sidewall228can include an upper portion232and a lower portion234. The upper portion232and the lower portion234can be separated by a middle portion236disposed between the upper portion232and the lower portion234. In at least one example, the upper portion232and the lower portion234of the sidewall228can include one or more electrically conductive materials and the middle portion236can include one or more electrically non-conductive materials (e.g., an insulating material). The middle portion236can be molded to or otherwise adhered to the upper portion232and/or the lower portion234such that the upper portion232, the lower portion234, and the middle portion236form a single, unitary sidewall228of the housing202, as shown.

As will be described in relation to the ECM226, the electronic device200can include an antenna wherein the upper portion232of the conductive housing228forms a radiating element of the antenna and the lower portion234of the conductive housing forms a grounding element of the antenna.

FIG.3Aillustrates a housing sidewall228and an ECM326of an electronic device300, according to one example. Although not all components may be shown, the electronic device300can be substantially similar to the electronic watch200ofFIG.2and other electronic devices described herein, as noted by the same or similar reference numbers.

The housing sidewall228can include an upper housing portion232, a lower housing portion234, and a middle housing portion236. The upper housing portion232and the lower housing portion234can be electrically isolated by the middle housing portion236. In other words, the housing sidewall228includes a conductive upper portion (the upper housing portion232), a conductive lower portion (the lower housing portion234), and an insulating middle portion (the middle housing portion236) between the conductive upper portion and the conductive lower portion.

The ECM326can be disposed along a portion of a perimeter of the housing sidewall228. More specifically, the ECM326can be disposed along a portion of an inner perimeter of the upper housing portion232. In at least one example, the ECM326includes a gap, such that the ECM326is only partially disposed along the inner perimeter of the upper housing portion232. As used herein, a gap indicates a discontinuity, such that the ECM326does not form a continuous ring.

In at least one example, a first end305and a second end307of the ECM326are coupled to the housing sidewall228. The first end305and the second end307can be mechanically coupled to the inner perimeter of the upper housing portion232at a first contact point309(1) and a second contact point309(2). The first end305and the second end307can be coupled via a weld process or other mechanism (snap connections or other non-permanent connections). In at least one example, at the first contact point309(1), the first end305of the ECM326is electrically coupled to the upper housing portion232; and at the second contact point309(2), the second end307of the ECM326is electrically coupled to the upper housing portion232. In a further example, the ECM326and the upper housing portion232can be mechanically and electrically coupled at additional contact points (e.g., via welds or other mechanisms). For example, the ECM326can be coupled to the housing sidewall228along a third position along the length of the ECM326. The third position can be another weld point or other type of coupling between the first contact point309(1) and the second contact point309(2), and along the ECM326.

FIG.3Billustrates the ECM326including contact features320, according to one example. The ECM326can include a contact feature320(1) that electrically couples the ECM326and the housing sidewall228. In particular, the contact feature320(1) can electrically contact the upper housing portion232of the housing sidewall228. As depicted inFIG.3B, the ECM326includes contact features320(1)-320(14). However, in other examples the ECM326can have a different number of contact features. In one example, the ECM326has no contact features, and only makes electrical contact with the upper housing portion232at the contact points309(1) and309(2) at the first end305and the second end307, respectively, of the ECM326. In other examples, the ECM326can have between one and thirteen contact features. In other examples, the ECM326can have more than fourteen contact features. In at least one example, the contact features320are spaced substantially evenly along the ECM326.

The contact feature320can be a protrusion in the ECM326which protrudes towards the housing sidewall228. In at least one example, the contact feature320can be a bump or dimple and can be referred to as a micro-dimple. In one example, the contact feature320can have a substantially half sphere profile. In other examples, the contact feature320can have a conical profile, a rectangular profile, or other suitable profile which protrudes towards the housing sidewall228to make electrical contact with the housing sidewall228at a given location. In at least one example, some or all of the contact features320can be permanent (e.g., the contact features320can be welded to the housing sidewall228). In at least one example, permanently welding the contact features320to the housing sidewall228can help ensure grounding of the ECM326to the housing sidewall228at each point of contact.

Any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown inFIGS.3A-3Bcan be included, either alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in the other figures. Likewise, any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown in the other figures can be included, either alone or in any combination, in the example of the devices, features, components, and parts shown inFIGS.3A-3B. Additional details of contact points between the ECM and other components of the electronic device are provided in reference toFIG.4.

FIG.4illustrates contact points411(1)-(10) between an ECM426and a housing sidewall428, as well as contact points413(1)-(8) between the ECM426and a PCB418of an electronic device400, according to one example. In one example, the contact points413are between the ECM426and a conductive member in contact with the PCB418. The PCB418can be disposed within the internal volume of the electronic device400. The contact points411correspond to locations at which the ECM426and the housing sidewall428are electrically coupled. In particular, the contact points411correspond to locations at which the ECM426and the upper housing portion (e.g., the upper housing portion232) of the sidewall428are coupled. The contact points413correspond to locations at which the ECM426and the PCB418are electrically coupled. In at least one example, the ECM426can include a first plurality of bulges (at contact points413) forming electrical connections with the PCB418; and the ECM426can include a second plurality of bulges (at contact points411) forming electrical connections with the conductive housing sidewall428. In at least one example, rather than including bulges, an ECM can have undulations and/or circumferential variations (e.g., waves) to form electrical connections with the PCB418and/or the conductive housing sidewall428. In additional or alternative examples, an ECM can have both waves and bulges. In such a way, the electronic device400includes an antenna in which an upper portion of the housing sidewall428forms a radiating element of the antenna and a lower portion of the housing sidewall428forms a grounding element of the antenna.

Details of the ECM426to sidewall428coupling are provided below with respect toFIG.5B. Details of the ECM426to PCB418coupling are provided below with respect toFIG.5C. Regions where the ECM426is not coupled to the sidewall428or the PCB418are provided below with respect toFIG.5A.

In at least one example, the contact points411and the contact points413are at least partially alternated such that they are distributed substantially evenly along the ECM426. As depicted inFIG.4, some contact points, such as contact points411(1),413(1),411(2), and413(2) are disposed in an alternating pattern. Other contact points, such as411(2),413(2),413(3),411(3),411(4), and413(4) are disposed in a bi-alternating pattern. In general, the contact points411and413can be disposed in any suitable distribution pattern. The contact points411can be formed by the contact features320ofFIG.3. The contact points413can be formed by contact features similar to those described in reference toFIGS.5-9.

In at least one example, the ECM426includes a first contact feature electrically coupling the ECM426and the electrically conductive connector at a first location413(1). The electrically conductive connector can be a wire, pin, or other electrically conductive path. The electrically conductive path created by the electrically conductive connector can be coupled to the PCB and can contact the first contact feature (protrusion) at the first location413(1). The first contact feature can be a bulge, as described inFIG.5. The ECM426can include a second feature electrically coupling the ECM and the housing sidewall428at a second position411(1) along the length of the ECM426. In at least one example, the ECM426includes a third contact feature electrically coupling the ECM and the electrically conductive connector at a third position along the ECM426. The ECM includes a fourth contact feature electrically coupling the ECM426and the housing sidewall428at a fourth position along a length of the ECM.

Any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown inFIG.4can be included, cither alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in the other figures. Likewise, any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown in the other figures can be included, either alone or in any combination, in the example of the devices, features, components, and parts shown inFIG.4. Additional details of contact points between the ECM and other components of the electronic device are provided in reference toFIGS.5A-5C.

FIGS.5A-5Cillustrate cross-sectional views of a housing sidewall528and an ECM526of an electronic device500along the lines415a,415b, and415cofFIG.4, according to one example. The wearable electronic devices described herein can include antennas configured to send and receive electromagnetic signals during use. Incorporating effective antennas into small, compact devices such as wearable electronic watches can be challenging because the greater the distance between a resonating plane and a grounding plane of an antenna, among other factors, the better the performance of the antenna will be. However, space is often limited to create the required Z-distances necessary in compact wearable electronic devices. In devices described herein, the housing and sidewalls of the device can be electrically separated into multiple portions to create resonating elements and grounding elements of an antenna with sufficient separation (Z-distance) for the housing itself to act as an antenna. However, this design has its own challenges, including electrically connecting the resonating element to a PCB, processor, or other electronic device without reducing the Z-distance of the antenna. Wearable electronic devices described herein are configured to overcome these challenges, as described below.

In at least one example, the electronic device500can include the sidewall528defining an internal volume503. In at least one example, the sidewall528includes a conductive upper portion532, a conductive lower portion534, and an insulating middle portion536. The insulating middle portion536can be disposed between the conductive upper portion532and the conductive lower portion536. In other terms, the housing502defines the internal volume503and includes the upper housing portion532and the lower housing portion534that are electrically isolated by the middle housing portion536. In at least one example, the middle portion536can be bonded to the upper portion532and the lower portion534to electrically isolate the lower portion534from the upper portion532. The upper portion532can define an opening530.

In at least one example, the electronic device500can also include a display assembly506disposed within the opening530defined by the conductive upper portion532. In at least one example, the conductive upper portion532surrounds a perimeter of the display assembly506and extends above the display assembly506. The display assembly506can include a display cover522and one or more other display layers524disposed below the display cover522. The display assembly506can be disposed in the opening530such that a gap568is formed between the display assembly and the sidewall528. The gap568is a space between the display assembly506and the sidewall528.

In at least one example, the electronic device500further includes an insulating material576, seal538, and an adhesive layer578disposed between the insulating material576and the seal538. The middle portion536, the display cover522, the insulating material576, the seal538, and the adhesive layer578can define a cavity570. The cavity570can run along at least a portion of a perimeter of the electronic device500. In particular, the cavity570can run along at least a portion of an inner perimeter of the sidewall528. The cavity570can be in fluid communication with the external environment550via the gap568.

The seal538can bond to other layers and components including the adhesive layer578, the middle portion536, the lower portion534, and/or the insulating material576to prevent moisture, dust, and/or other contaminants from entering the internal volume503from the external environment550. The seal538can in some examples be an adhesive layer or adhesive seal, such as a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA). In at least one example, one or more other components can be disposed or stacked between the seal538and the display assembly506, for example, the adhesive layer578. In at least one example, an epoxy layer can be stacked below the seal538, opposite the display assembly. In addition, the insulating material576can support a PCB574(shown inFIG.5B) disposed within the internal volume503.

In at least one example, the electronic device500includes an ECM526similar to the ECMs126-426ofFIGS.1-4. In at least one example, the ECM526is a wave ring. The ECM526is disposed within the cavity570. The ECM526can make electrical contact with various points of the upper housing portion532at contact points411ofFIG.4. The ECM526can make electrical contact with a PCB (PCB574ofFIG.5C) at contact points413ofFIG.4. At some locations with ECM526does not contact the upper housing portion532or the PCB574.

FIG.5Aillustrates a cross-sectional view of the electronic device500at a first location415awhere the ECM526electrically contacts the upper portion532of the housing sidewall228, according to one example. In particular,FIG.5Aillustrates the cross-sectional view of the electronic device500at a contact point411including a contact feature320ofFIG.3.

At the location415a, the ECM526can include a contact feature320. The contact feature320can electrically couple the ECM526and the housing sidewall528at the location415aalong a length of the ECM526. In at least one example, the contact feature320can be a protrusion or a dimple (e.g., a micro-dimple) that protrudes from the ECM526toward the external environment550to contact the upper portion532of the housing sidewall528.

In at least one example, the ECM526can include an additional contact feature320electrically coupling the ECM526and the housing sidewall528at an additional location along the length of the ECM526. The ECM526can include multiple contact features320electrically coupling the ECM526and the housing sidewall528, as illustrated by contact points411.

FIG.5Billustrates a cross-sectional view of the electronic device500at a second location415bwhere the ECM526electrically contacts the PCB574, according to one example. The electronic device500includes a PCB574disposed within the internal volume503. In at least one example, the electronic device500can include an electrically conductive connector572extending though the insulating material576between the gap568and the PCB574. The electrically conductive connector572can contact the PCB574.

In at least one example, the upper portion532of the sidewall528can be electrically isolated from the lower portion534via the intermediary and non-conductive middle portion536. In this way, the upper portion532can be a resonating element of an antenna of the electronic device500with the lower portion534of the sidewall528acting as an electrical grounding plane relative to the resonating plane of the upper portion532. As noted above, the upper portion532can be electrically connected to the PCB574of the device500such that signals received and sent by the resonating upper portion532can be directed to the PCB574and can be processed with one or more processors or other electronic components of the device500, including any processors or other electronic components mounted on the PCB.

At the location415b, the ECM526includes a contact feature540. The contact feature540can electrically couple the ECM526and the electrically conductive connector572at the location415balong the length of the ECM526. In at least one example, the contact feature540can be a protrusion or a bulge that protrudes from the ECM526toward the internal volume503to contact the electrically conductive connector572. In particular, the bulge or protrusion can extend from the housing502, the housing sidewall528, and toward the PCB574. In this way, the upper housing portion532can be electrically connected to the PCB574through the ECM526.

In at least one example, the ECM526can include an additional contact feature540electrically coupling the ECM526and the electrically conductive connector572at an additional location along the length of the ECM526. The ECM526can include multiple contact features540electrically coupling the ECM526and the electrically conductive connector572, and thus the PCB574, as illustrate by contact points413. As can be seen inFIGS.5A-5B, the protrusions540and the protrusions320can extend from the ECM526in opposite directions.

FIG.5Cillustrates a cross-sectional view of the electronic device500at a third location415c, where the ECM526electrically contacts neither the upper housing portion532nor the PCB574, according to one example. At the location415c, the ECM526does not have any contact features and is disposed within the cavity570. However, due to the electrically conductive nature of the ECM526, the upper housing portion532and the PCB574are electrically coupled such that the upper housing portion532(e.g., the conductive upper portion) forms a radiating element of an antenna while the lower housing portion534(e.g., the conductive portion) forms a grounding element of the antenna. In other words, the sidewall228at least partially forms an antenna assembly, in which the radiating element of the antenna of the electronic device500includes the upper housing portion532, while the grounding element of the antenna of the electronic device500includes the lower housing portion534.

Any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown inFIGS.5A-5Ccan be included, either alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in the other figures. Likewise, any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown in the other figures can be included, either alone or in any combination, in the example of the devices, features, components, and parts shown inFIGS.5A-5C. Additional details of contact points between the ECM and the PCB are provided below in reference toFIG.6.

FIG.6Aillustrates a portion of an ECM626of an electronic device600, according to one example. Although not all of the components of the electronic device600are shown, the electronic device600can be similar to the electronic devices100-500ofFIGS.1-5, as noted by similar reference numbers.

The ECM626includes contact features640for electrically coupling the ECM626to a PCB of the electronic device600. In at least one example, the contact features640can include tensioning arms642(1)-(8). In at least one example, the tensioning arms642(1)-(8) can be torsion springs, which can twist to allow the contact features640to pivot towards the housing sidewall. Additionally or alternatively, the tensioning arms642(1)-(8) can be configured as linear springs allowing the contact features640to be directed towards the housing sidewall. (In some examples, the contact features642can include bulges or protrusions. As used herein, a protrusion or a bulge refers to a formation in the ECM626that extends towards an internal volume of the electronic device600within a planar surface formed by the ECM626. In some examples, the bulge formation can include a curved, domed, or semi-domed surface facing inward and away from and adjacent housing sidewall toward the conductive member572and the PCB of the electronic device600. In one example, the bulge can be curvilinear. In such examples, the domed or semi-domed, curvilinear nature of the bulge can provide many angled surfaces allowing sufficient contact with the conductive member572to form electrical connections within a wide range of assembly and manufacturing tolerances. As depicted inFIG.6A, the ECM626has contact features640(1)-640(8). However, in other examples, the ECM626can have fewer contact features640(e.g., between one and seven) or the ECM626have more contact features640(e.g., greater than eight).

In at least one example, the contact feature640includes a tensioning arm642. The tensioning arm642can couple the contact feature640between adjacent portions of the ECM626. The tensioning arm642can allow the contact feature640to be displaced outward (e.g., toward the sidewall) and/or downward (e.g., away from the display assembly) when the display assembly is disposed within the opening formed by the housing sidewall. In at least one example, a tensioning arm can be a torsion arm or a spring arm, which can exert a restorative force when the display assembly is not disposed within the opening formed by the housing sidewall.

In at least one example, the contact feature640extends below (e.g., away from the display assembly) such that a torsion, represented by arrows629along the tensioning arm642(5), is applied to the contact feature640and the tensioning arm642when the display cover and/or the display assembly is installed. In at least one example, additional contact features (e.g., contact features320ofFIG.3), can be welded to the housing sidewall, such that the contact features640can be deflected when the display cover and/or the display assembly are installed. In this way, the tensioning arms642can allow the contact features640to deflect to account for manufacturing tolerances without applying sufficient stress to the contact features (320), which can prevent cracking or damage to the weld points. In at least one example, the welding points can provide grounding of the ECM626to the housing sidewall at all contact points of the contact features320.

FIG.6Billustrates a first perspective view of a contact feature640of the ECM626of the electronic device600, according to one example. Similarly,FIG.6Cillustrates a second perspective view, opposite the first perspective view, of the contact feature640of the ECM626of the electronic device600, according to one example.

As depicted, the contact feature640can extend away from the ECM626and toward the internal volume by a distance represented by623. The protrusion can extend downward from the tensioning arm642by a distance represented by617. The contact feature640can have a profile with an effective diameter between the lengths represented by619. Thus, by varying the lengths617,619,621, and/or623, a general shape of the contact feature640can be changed. For example, the contact feature640can be mound-shaped, pin-shaped, rectangular, ellipsoidal, etc. In the illustrated example ofFIGS.6B and6C, the protrusion can include a bulge shaped formation/feature including a domed, semi-domed, or curvilinear surface. The side of the contact feature640extending away from the ECM626, as shown inFIG.6B, can be convex to provide a continuous surface of varying angles. The varying angles of the domed, convex surface of bulge contact feature640can provide a range of contact points to make electrical contact with the PCB or conductive portion connected to the PCB of the device within a wide range of manufacturing and assembly tolerances.

Any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown inFIGS.6A-6Ccan be included, either alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in the other figures. Likewise, any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown in the other figures can be included, either alone or in any combination, in the example of the devices, features, components, and parts shown inFIGS.6A-6C. Additional details of different types of contact points between the ECM and the PCB are provided below in reference toFIGS.7A-7C.

FIG.7Aillustrates a portion of an ECM726of an electronic device700, according to one example. Although not all of the components of the electronic device700are shown, the electronic device700can be similar to the electronic devices100-600ofFIGS.1-6, as noted by similar reference numbers.

The ECM726includes contact features740for electrically coupling the ECM626to a PCB of the electronic device700. The contact feature740can be functionally similar to the contact features640ofFIG.6, but with a different profile. In at least one example, the contact feature740is a protrusion or a flat bulge. As depicted inFIG.7, the ECM726has contact features740(1)-740(8). However, in other examples, the ECM726can have fewer contact features740(e.g., between one and seven) or the ECM726have more contact features740(e.g., greater than eight). In at least one example, the contact feature740includes a tensioning arm742which is substantially similar to the tensioning arm642.

FIG.7Billustrates a first perspective view of a contact feature740of the ECM726of the electronic device700, according to one example. Similarly,FIG.7Cillustrates a second perspective view, opposite the first perspective view, of the contact feature740of the ECM726of the electronic device700, according to one example.

As depicted, the contact feature740can extend away from the ECM626and toward the internal volume by a distance represented by723. The contact feature740can extend downward from the tensioning arm742by a distance represented by717. The lower edge729of the contact feature740can be substantially flat (in two dimensions) or linear (in a one-dimensional projection). A width of the contact feature is illustrated by the arrow721.

Any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown inFIGS.7A-7Ccan be included, either alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in the other figures. Likewise, any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown in the other figures can be included, either alone or in any combination, in the example of the devices, features, components, and parts shown inFIGS.7A-7C. Additional details of removable coupling between the ECM and the housing are provided below in reference toFIGS.8A-8C.

FIG.8Aillustrates a perspective view of a portion of an electronic device800with a spacer844coupling an ECM826to a sidewall828of a housing of the electronic device, according to one example. Although not all components are necessarily shown, the electronic device800can be similar to any of the electronic devices100-700ofFIGS.1-7except that the electronic device800includes the spacer844. As such, the ECM826does not need to be welded at a first end805or a second end807of the ECM826. In at least one example, the spacer844can allow a user of the electronic device800to install or replace the ECM826without the need for complicated equipment. For example, the user can remove the ECM826by hand or with simple and/or inexpensive tools to allow the user to easily repair the ECM826.

In at least one example, the electronic device800includes a conductive housing sidewall828defining an internal volume. A PCB (not shown) is disposed in the internal volume. The spacer844can be disposed along a first portion (illustrated by825and detailed inFIGS.8B-8C) of an inner perimeter of the conductive housing sidewall828. A conductive band (e.g., the ECM826) can be disposed along a second portion of the inner perimeter of the conductive housing sidewall828. The first end805of the ECM826can be removably coupled to the conductive housing sidewall828at a first position827(1) along the spacer844. The second end807of the ECM826can be removably coupled to the conductive housing sidewall828at a second position827(2) along the spacer844.

In at least one example, the spacer844can be permanently fixed or welded to the conductive housing sidewall828. The spacer844can provide electrical contact between the ECM826and the conductive sidewall828.

FIG.8Billustrates a zoomed-in perspective view of the region825of the electronic device800, according to one example.

FIG.8Cillustrates a zoomed-in top view of the region825of the electronic device800, according to one example. In at least one example, the first end805of the ECM826can be mechanically coupled to the spacer844at a first position827(1), and the second end807of the ECM826can be mechanically coupled to the spacer at a second position827(2). The spacer844can include a first feature846(1) to receive the first end805of the ECM826. The spacer844can include a second feature846(2) to receive the second end807of the ECM826. In at least one example, the first end805and the second end807of the ECM826can include bends and/or curves, as illustrated, which can allow the first end805and the second end807to be mated with the first feature846(1) and the second feature846(2), respectively, of the spacer844.

Any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown inFIGS.8A-8Ccan be included, either alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in the other figures. Likewise, any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown in the other figures can be included, either alone or in any combination, in the example of the devices, features, components, and parts shown inFIGS.8A-8C. Additional details of an example spacer are given below in reference toFIGS.9A-9B.

FIG.9Aillustrates a first perspective view of a spacer944of an electronic device900, according to one example. Similarly,FIG.9Billustrates a second perspective view, opposite the first perspective view, of the spacer944of the electronic device900, according to one example. Although not all components are necessarily shown, the electronic device900can be similar to any of the electronic devices100-800ofFIGS.1-8except that the electronic device900includes the spacer944.

In at least one example, the spacer944can include a first feature946(1) and a second feature946(2). The first feature946(1) can be configured to couple with a first end of an ECM (e.g., a wave ring). The second feature946(2) can be configured to couple with a second end, opposite the first end of the ECM.

In at least one example, the spacer944can include a hole950which can be a guide hole configured to receive a screw, weld, or other mounting component in order to couple the spacer944to the housing sidewall. In at least one example, the hole950can be configured to adjustably allow the spacer944to be coupled to the housing sidewall. In other words, the spacer944can be tightened or loosened against the housing sidewall, the orientation (e.g., the angle of the spacer with respect to the housing sidewall), etc. can be adjusted.

In at least one example, the features946of the spacer944can include various protrusions facing toward the housing sidewall, toward the internal volume, or a combination thereof. The features946can be configured to receive the ends of the ECM. In at least one example, the features946can be configured to removably receive the ends of the ECM.

FIG.10Aillustrates a first perspective view of a spacer1044of an electronic device1000, according to one example. Similarly,FIG.10Billustrates a second perspective view, opposite the first perspective view, of the spacer1044of the electronic device1000, according to one example. Although not all components are necessarily shown, the electronic device1000can be similar to any of the electronic devices100-900ofFIGS.1-9except that the electronic device1000includes the spacer1044. The spacer1044can be substantially similar to the spacer944ofFIG.9, except with some variations. For example, the spacer1044can include additional material at the features1046(1) and1046(2) and the hole1050which can provide additional mechanical strength to the spacer1044.

Any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown inFIGS.10A-10Bcan be included, either alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in the other figures. Likewise, any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown in the other figures can be included, either alone or in any combination, in the example of the devices, features, components, and parts shown inFIGS.10A-10B. Details of seal are provided below in reference toFIGS.11A-11C.

FIG.11Aillustrates an exploded view of an electronic device1100including an ECM1126and a seal1148, according to one example. Although not all components are necessarily shown, the electronic device1100can be similar to any of the electronic devices100-1000ofFIGS.1-10. For example, the ECM1126can have any of the contact features and any number of contact features described herein. Furthermore, in at least one example, the seal1148can include and/or be similar to the seal538ofFIG.5. In other examples, the seal1148can be a separate sealant layer that is not illustrated inFIG.5.

The seal1148can be configured to bond other layers and components including various antenna layers, insulating layers, and portions of the sidewall of the housing1102to prevent moisture, dust, and/or other contaminants from entering the internal volume of the electronic device1100. In at least one example, the seal1148can be configured to be installed into the housing1102after the ECM1126. As such, the seal1148is disposed around the perimeter of the housing between the conductive lower portion1134and the display portion (such as display portion506, not illustrated inFIGS.11A-11C). The seal1148can define depressions or cutouts corresponding to contact features1140between the ECM1126and the PCB.

In at least one example of the electronic device100, the housing sidewall1128has an upper sidewall portion1132and a lower sidewall portion1134bonded to a middle sidewall portion1136disposed between the upper and lower sidewall portions1132,1134, respectively. The housing sidewall1128can define an opening532and a display assembly (not shown, similar to display assembly506) can be disposed in the opening532. Also, in at least one example, the seal1148can serve as a seal disposed underneath the display assembly and can be bonded directly to the middle portion1136of the sidewall1128.

The seal1148can be a resin or other adhesive. In some examples, the seal1148can be substantially resistant to degradation from light, weather, and/or water. In at least one example, the seal1148can be an adhesion promotor.

FIG.11Billustrates a top view of the electronic device1100including the seal1148, according to one example. As shown inFIG.11B, the seal1148can include depressions (e.g., cutouts)1131. In particular, the seal1148can define a cutout1131at a first position corresponding to the contact feature1140.

In at least one example, the cutouts1131positionally correspond to locations of contact features (such as the contact features540-740ofFIGS.5-7)1140electrically contacting the ECM1126to the PCB (or an electrically conductive connector). Thus, if there are N contact features1140(N), there are N cutouts1131(N). In other examples, the number of contact features1140(N) and the number of cutouts11431M) are not the same (e.g., N is different from M). In the example depicted inFIG.11B, each cutout1131corresponds to a contact feature1140. The contact features1140and the cutouts1131are distributed along the perimeter of the housing sidewall1128.

FIG.11Cillustrates a top view of a cutout1131(6), for example, the cutout1131(6) in the seal1148of the electronic device1100, according to one example. As depicted inFIG.11C, the seal1148can have a width (as considered within a plane defined by the display assembly) which is narrowest (e.g., thinnest) at a location1135corresponding to the contact feature1140(6). In contrast, at the location1133, the seal1148has its maximum width (e.g., thickness).

In at least one example, the cutouts1131are configured to allow the seal1148to be installed along the housing sidewall1128subsequent to the ECM1126being installed. In particular, the cutouts1131can be configured to prevent the seal1148from interfering with the contact features1140of the ECM1126during installation of the seal1148.

To the extent applicable to the present technology, gathering and use of data available from various sources can be used to improve the delivery to users of invitational content or any other content that may be of interest to them. The present disclosure contemplates that in some instances, this gathered data may include personal information data that uniquely identifies or can be used to contact or locate a specific person. Such personal information data can include demographic data, location-based data, telephone numbers, email addresses, TWITTER® ID's, home addresses, data or records relating to a user's health or level of fitness (e.g., vital signs measurements, medication information, exercise information), date of birth, or any other identifying or personal information.