Wearable band including magnets

A wearable band for an electronic device and a method of forming the wearable band for the electronic device. The wearable band may include a first strap portion including a loop, and a second strap portion positioned through the loop of the first strap portion. The second strap portion may include a first group of components positioned adjacent a first end of the second strap portion. The first group of components may include magnetic properties. The second strap portion may also include a second group of components positions adjacent a second end, opposite the first end, of the second strap portion. The second group of components may include magnetic properties.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The disclosure relates generally to electronic devices, and more particularly to a wearable band for an electronic device and a method of forming the wearable band for the electronic device.

BACKGROUND

Conventional wearable electronic devices include bands that couple the electronic device to a user or a desired object for holding the electronic device (e.g., bicycle handlebar). For example, a conventional wristwatch typically includes a band that attaches the watch to a user's wrist. There are many varieties of conventional wearable bands for watches including, but not limited to, elastic bands, flexible bands including buckles, and metal bands including metal clasp. However, each of these conventional bands may include negative aspects, and may undesirably fail prior to the end of the expected operational life of the wearable electronic device.

For example, the conventional elastic band may lose its elastic properties over time, and may become too big for a user's wrist, which may result in the electronic device unexpectedly slipping from a user's wrist and being damaged. In another example, the material forming the flexible bands may tear or deteriorate over time due to normal use over the operational life of the band and/or the concentrated force applied at the hole of the flexible band by the tongue of the buckle. The metal bands including the metal clasp may include a plurality of components all coupled together, which may fail, become uncoupled or malfunction over time. That is, the plurality of components forming the metal band may become damaged, not function properly over time, or may become uncoupled, rendering the metal band incapable of attaching the wearable electronic device to a user. When a conventional wearable band fails and/or is incapable of securely attaching the electronic device to a user's wrist, the band needs to be replaced and/or the wearable electronic device may be susceptible to damage.

SUMMARY

Generally, embodiments discussed herein are related to a wearable band for an electronic device, and methods of forming the wearable band for the electronic device. The wearable band may include two strap portions coupled to a wearable electronic device. The first strap portion may include a loop and the second strap portion, capable of being inserted through the loop of the first strap portion, may include a plurality of components having magnetic properties (e.g., magnets, ferrous metals). The wearable electronic device including the wearable band may be secured to an object (e.g., user's wrist) by inserting the second strap portion through the loop of the first strap portion and releasably coupling the components of the second strap portion to one another. A group of magnets positioned at a first end of the second strap portion may be magnetically coupled to a distinct group of magnets positioned at a second end, opposite the first end, after the second end is positioned through the loop of the first strap portion and folded back on the remainder of the second strap portion. By utilizing magnets, the magnetic bond or coupling formed between the plurality of components in the second strap portion may not substantially weaken or fail over time. Additionally, as a result of the components being included in and/or encased within the second strap portion, the risk of mechanical failure (e.g., loss or damage of components) may be substantially minimized.

One embodiment may include a wearable band. The wearable band may include a first strap portion including a loop, and a second strap portion positioned through the loop of the first strap portion. The second strap portion may include a first group of components positioned over a first length of the second strap portion. The first group of components may include magnetic properties. The second strap portion may also include a second group of components positioned over a second length of the second strap, distinct from the first length. The second group of components may include magnetic properties.

Another embodiment may include a wearable electronic device. The wearable electronic device may include a housing, and a wearable band coupled to the housing. The wearable band may include a first strap portion including a loop coupled to a first portion of the housing, and a second strap portion coupled to a second portion, opposite the first portion, of the housing. The second strap portion may include a first group of magnets positioned adjacent a first end of the second strap portion, a second group of magnets positioned adjacent a second end of the second strap portion. The second group of magnets may be positioned opposite the first group of magnets, and a plurality of inserts positioned between the first group of magnet and the second group of magnets. The plurality of inserts may include magnetic properties.

A further embodiment may include a method of forming a wearable band for a wearable electronic device. The method may include coupling a plurality of components to a protective layer. The plurality of components may include magnetic properties. The method may also include coupling filler material to at least one of the protective layer and the plurality of components to form an internal assembly, and positioning the internal assembly within a strap of the wearable electronic device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following disclosure relates generally to an electronic device, and more particularly, to a wearable band for an electronic device and a method of forming the wearable band for the electronic device.

The wearable band may include two strap portions coupled to a wearable electronic device. The first strap portion may include a loop and the second strap portion, capable of being inserted through the loop of the first strap portion, may include a plurality of components having magnetic properties (e.g., magnets, ferrous metals). The wearable electronic device including the wearable band may be secured to an object (e.g., user's wrist) by inserting the second strap portion through the loop of the first strap portion and releasably coupling the components of the second strap portion to one another. A group of magnets positioned at a first end of the second strap portion may be magnetically coupled to a distinct group of magnets positioned at a second end, opposite the first end, after the second end is positioned through the loop of the first strap portion and folded back on the remainder of the second strap portion. By utilizing magnets, the magnetic bond or coupling formed between the plurality of components in the second strap portion may not substantially weaken or fail over time. Additionally, as a result of the components being included in and/or encased within the second strap portion, the risk of mechanical failure (e.g., loss or damage of components) may be substantially minimized.

FIG. 1shows an illustrative perspective view of a portable or wearable electronic device100, according to embodiments. Wearable electronic device100, as shown inFIG. 1, may be configured to provide health-related information or data such as, but not limited to, heart rate data, blood pressure data, temperature data, oxygen level data, diet/nutrition information, medical reminders, health-related tips or information, or other health-related data. The wearable electronic device may optionally convey the health-related information to a separate electronic device such as a tablet computing device, phone, personal digital assistant, computer, and so on. In addition, wearable electronic device100may provide additional information, such as but not limited to, time, date, health, statuses or externally connected or communicating devices and/or software executing on such devices, messages, video, operating commands, and so forth (and may receive any of the foregoing from an external device), in addition to communications.

Wearable electronic device100may include a housing102at least partially surrounding a display104and one or more buttons106or input devices. The housing102may form an outer surface or partial outer surface and protective case for the internal components of wearable electronic device100, and may at least partially surround the display104. The housing102may be formed of one or more components operably connected together, such as a front piece and a back piece. Alternatively, the housing102may be formed of a single piece operably connected to the display104. Housing102may include a plurality of distinct materials including, but not limited to: corundum, commonly referred to as sapphire, metal, glass or plastic. Additionally, housing102may include a decorative and/or coating layer that be disposed on the outer and/or or inner surface of housing102. The decorative layer and/or coating layer may be disposed on the surface(s) of housing102to protect the enclosure and/or provide a decorative feature (e.g., exterior color) for electronic device100.

Housing102may also include recesses108formed on opposite ends to connect a wearable band110(partially shown inFIG. 1) to wearable electronic device100. As shown inFIG. 1, and discussed herein, wearable band110may include a first strap portion112coupled to housing102, and a second strap portion118positioned opposite first strap portion112and coupled to housing102. Wearable band110, and specifically first strap portion112and second strap portion118, may be used to secure wearable electronic device100to a user, or any other object capable of receiving wearable electronic device100. In a non-limiting example where wearable electronic device100includes a smart watch, wearable band110may secure the watch to a user's wrist. In other non-limiting examples, wearable electronic device100may secured to another part of a user's body using wearable band110. Additionally in other non-limiting examples discussed herein, wearable band110may be formed as a single component coupled to housing102or as two distinct components coupled to opposite ends of housing102.

Display104may be implemented with any suitable technology, including, but not limited to, a multi-touch sensing touchscreen that uses liquid crystal display (LCD) technology, light emitting diode (LED) technology, organic light-emitting display (OLED) technology, organic electroluminescence (OEL) technology, or another type of display technology.

Button106may include any suitable input/output (I/O) device for electronic device100. Specifically, button106may include an actuation component in electronic and/or mechanical communication with the internal components of electronic device100, to provide user input and/or allow the user to interact with the various functions of electronic device100. In an embodiment button106may be configured as a single component surrounded by housing102. Alternatively, button106may include a plurality of components, including an actuation component, in mechanical/electrical communication with one another and/or internal component of electronic device100.

FIG. 2shows an illustrative top view of wearable band110ofFIG. 1. Specifically,FIG. 2may show first strap portion112and second strap portion118forming wearable band110for wearable electronic device100. First strap portion112and second strap portion118may be formed from substantially the same material or any material including similar flexible and/or deformable characteristics. In a non-limiting example, first strap portion112and second strap portion118may be formed from a leather material.

First strap portion112and second strap portion118may be formed from a top layer120and a bottom layer122(see,FIG. 4) of material (e.g., leather) bonded or coupled to one another. First strap portion112and second strap portion118may be formed using a single piece of material or multiple pieces of material, where first strap portion112and second strap portion118include top layer120and bottom layer122. In a non-limiting example, each of first strap portion112and second strap portion118may be formed from single, distinct pieces of material. The single piece of material may be folded over itself to form top layer120and bottom layer122, and the folded portion may be positioned at a housing end124(e.g., second strap portion118). Housing end124of first strap portion112(not shown) and/or second strap portion118may be coupled to and/or positioned within recess108to couple wearable band110, and specifically first strap portion112and second strap portion118, to housing102of wearable electronic device100(see,FIG. 1). In another non-limiting example, first strap portion112and second strap portion118may be formed from multiple pieces of material, where each distinct piece of material forms top layer120or bottom layer122for first strap portion112and/or second strap portion118. In an additional non-limiting example discussed herein, wearable band110may be formed from a single piece of material, such that first strap portion112and second strap portion118are integrally formed.

First strap portion112and second strap portion118may include a coupling component126(shown in phantom) positioned substantially around and/or adjacent to the perimeter of the respective strap portions. Coupling component126may include an suitable material or technique that may be used to couple top layer120and bottom layer122to one another to form first strap portion112and/or second strap portion118. Additionally, and as discussed herein, coupling component126may be utilized within first strap portion112and/or second strap portion118to ensure internal components of the respective straps remain within and/or between top layer120and bottom layer122. In a non-limiting example, coupling component126may include an adhesive or bonding adjacent positioned adjacent the perimeter of first strap portion112and/or second strap portion118to bond top layer120to bottom layer122. In another non-limiting example, coupling component126may include a thread that may pass through top layer120and bottom layer122around the perimeter of first strap portion112and/or second strap portion118to couple top layer120to bottom layer122.

As shown inFIG. 2, first strap portion112may include a loop128positioned at an end130adjacent a second strap portion118. As discussed herein, a free end132of second strap portion118may be feed and/or positioned through opening134of loop128, and a portion of second strap portion118may be fold back on itself to couple wearable electronic device100(see,FIG. 1) to a user or a desired object. In a non-limiting example, loop128may be formed from a distinct material or component that may be coupled to the material forming first strap portion112(see,FIG. 2). In a non-limiting example shown inFIG. 2, loop128may be a distinct component from first strap portion112, and may be formed from a material having magnetic properties. In the non-limiting example, loop128may be formed from a ferrous metal material, and may be coupled to end130of first strap portion112using any suitable coupling component and/or technique (e.g., thread, adhesive, melting and so on). As discussed herein, loop128of first strap portion112may be formed from a material having magnetic properties to prevent free end132of second strap portion118from being completely and/or undesirably removed from loop128during use of wearable electronic device100(see,FIG. 1).

As shown inFIG. 2, wearable band110may also include a retention loop135positioned on and/or substantially around second strap portion118. As discussed herein, retention loop135may aid in securing free end132and/or a portion of second strap portion118to the remainder of second strap portion118when free end132is positioned through loop128and folded back onto the remaining portion of second strap portion118. Retention loop135may form an opening (not shown) located between second strap portion118of wearable band assembly110and retention loop135, where the opening may receive free end132and/or a portion of second strap portion118. In a non-limiting example, retention loop135may be coupled to and/or fixed in a predetermined position of second strap portion118. In another non-limiting example, retention loop135may surround second strap portion118, and may be free to move over the length of second strap portion118of wearable band110.

In another non-limiting example, as shown inFIG. 3, loop128may be formed integrally with first strap portion112. More specifically, loop128may be formed from the same material forming first strap portion112, and may include top layer120and bottom layer122(see,FIG. 4), as similarly discussed herein with respect to first strap portion112. As shown inFIG. 3, opening134of loop128may be formed through the material forming loop128and/or first strap portion112and may receive free end132of second strap portion118.

As shown inFIG. 3, where loop128is integrally formed with first strap portion112, loop128may include reinforcing fibers136(shown in phantom). More specifically, reinforcing fibers136may be positioned within at least a portion of loop128and/or may substantially surround at least a portion of opening134of loop128. In a non-limiting example, as shown inFIG. 3, reinforcing fibers136may be positioned around an entire circumference of loop128and/or opening134of loop128. In another non-limiting example, not shown, reinforcing fibers may be positioned within two opposite portions of the circumference of loop128and/or opening134. In the non-limiting example, reinforcing fibers136may be positioned within a first portion of loop128positioned directly adjacent free end132of second strap portion118, and an opposition portion of loop128positioned directly adjacent the body of first strap portion112.

Reinforcing fibers136may be made from a flexible material that may be woven through top layer120and bottom layer122of material forming loop128, to provide additional support to loop128during use of wearable band110. That is, reinforcing fibers136may provide additional support to loop128of first strap portion112to minimize a pull stress placed on loop128by second strap portion118when wearable electronic device100is being used. As similar discussed herein with respect toFIG. 2and as discussed in detail below, reinforcing fibers136may be formed from a material having magnetic properties to prevent free end132of second strap portion118from being completely and/or undesirably removed from loop128during use of wearable electronic device100(see,FIG. 1).

FIG. 4shows a cross-section top view of second strap portion118of wearable band110taken along line4-4ofFIG. 2. Specifically,FIG. 4shows second strap portion118with top layer120removed. As shown inFIG. 4, and as discussed herein with respect toFIG. 2, coupling component126may be positioned substantially around and/or substantially adjacent to a perimeter of second strap portion118. Coupling component126may include an adhesive or bonding agent that may positioned on bottom layer122of second strap portion118, and may couple or bond bottom layer122to top layer120(see,FIG. 2) to form second strap portion118. The adhesive or bonding agent forming coupling component126may be any suitable adhesive capable of coupling the material forming top layer120and bottom layer122of second strap portion118.

Second strap portion118may include a plurality of components138,140and inserts142. More specifically, as shown inFIG. 4, second strap portion118may include a first group of components138positioned adjacent housing end124, and a second group of component140positioned adjacent free end132, opposite first group of component138. Second strap portion118may also include a plurality of inserts142positioned between first group of component138and second group of components140. The first group of components138, the second group of components140and the plurality of inserts142may be positioned within second strap portion118between top layer120(see,FIG. 2) and bottom layer122.

The first group of components138, the second group of components140and the plurality of inserts142may all include magnetic properties. That is, each of the components138,140and inserts142may all be formed from a material that may include magnetic properties (e.g., magnetic field, magnetic attraction, and so on). In non-limiting examples, first group of components138may include a plurality of first magnets144having a first magnetic field, and second group of components140may include a plurality of second magnets146having a second magnetic field distinct from the first magnetic field of the first magnets144. The second magnetic field of the second magnets146of the second group of component140may be distinct (for example, larger) than the first magnetic field of the first magnets144of the first group of component138. Additionally in a non-limiting example, the plurality of inserts142may be formed from a ferrous metal material and may be magnetically attracted to second magnets146of the second group of components140. As discussed in detail below, second magnets146of the second group of components140may be magnetically attracted and/or coupled to first magnets144of the first group of components138and/or the plurality of inserts142for coupling wearable electronic device100(see,FIG. 1) including wearable band110to a user.

As shown inFIG. 4, the number of first magnets144in first group of components138included in second strap portion118may be larger than the number of second magnets146in second group of components140and/or the number of inserts in the plurality of inserts142. As a result, first magnets144in first group of components138may be positioned over the majority of second strap portion118. In a non-limiting example, as shown inFIG. 4, first magnets144in first group of components138may be positioned over approximately half of a length of second strap portion118. Second magnets146in second group of components140and the plurality of inserts142may span or be positioned over the remainder of the length of second strap portion118. In a non-limiting example, second magnets146in second group of components140may be positioned over at least a quarter of the length of second strap portion118. Additionally, the plurality of inserts142may be positioned over the remaining portion of second strap portion118between first group of components138and second group of components140.

It is understood that the number of components138,140or magnets144,146and/or inserts142shown inFIG. 4may be merely exemplary. That is, the number of components, magnets and/or inserts shown inFIG. 4may be merely exemplary for clearly and completely describing the disclosure, and may not represent the actual number of components, magnets and/or inserts used to form wearable band110for wearable electronic device100(see,FIG. 1).

As shown inFIG. 4, second magnets146of second group of components140man include an enlarged second magnet146A positioned directly adjacent free end132of second strap portion118. Enlarged second magnet146A may be substantially larger than the remaining second magnets146of second group of components140. Additionally, enlarged second magnet146A may be substantially larger than the remaining first magnets144of first group of components138, and/or the plurality of inserts142of second strap portion118. Enlarged second magnet146A may be larger than the remaining second magnets146of second group of components140to produce a stronger magnetic field or flux, and to ultimately ensure that the portion of second strap portion118including enlarged second magnet146A is magnetically coupled to a distinct first magnet144and/or insert142, as discussed herein. Additionally, as a result of the stronger magnetic field or flux of enlarged second magnet146A, enlarged second magnet146A may be magnetically coupled and/or attracted to loop128of first strap portion112(see,FIG. 2). This magnetic coupling/attraction to loop128may substantially prevent free end132of second strap portion118from being easily and/or undesirably removed from loop128when wearable electronic device100including wearable band110(see,FIG. 1) is taken off of a user and/or wearable band110is adjusted.

To aid in the positioning of free end132of second strap portion118through loop128, second strap portion118may also include a length of excess material148between free end132and second magnets146of second group of components140. Excess material148may provide a user a portion of material to grab that is not magnetically attracted to loop128of first strap portion112, when positioning free end132of second strap portion118through loop128. The excess material148may aid in position free end132through loop128to magnetically couple second magnets146of second group of components140with first magnets144of first group of components138and/or the plurality of inserts142, and ultimately couple wearable electronic device100to a user, as discussed herein.

As shown inFIG. 4, second strap portion118may also include a protective layer150. Protective layer150may be coupled to the various components138,140and/or inserts142positioned within second strap portion118. In a non-limiting example, protective layer150may be coupled to first magnets144of first group of components138, second magnets146of second group of components140and/or the plurality of inserts142positioned within second strap portion118. Additionally, and as shown inFIG. 4, protective layer150may be positioned between first magnets144of first group of components138, second magnets146of second group of components140and/or the plurality of inserts142, respectively. Protective layer150may include a single layer of material, two separate layers of material, or a plurality of distinct portions of a material. In a non-limiting example, as shown inFIG. 4, protective layer150may include a plurality of distinct portions of a material positioned between and coupled to each of the respective magnets144,146and inserts142for coupling the magnets144,146and inserts142together within second strap portion118. In additional non-limiting examples, not shown, the respective magnets144,146and inserts142may be coupled to a first surface of a single layer of protective layer150, or may be coupled and/or sandwiched between two distinct layers of protective layer150. In a non-limiting example, protective layer150may be formed from a polycarbonate material, and may be included within second strap portion118to protect magnets144,146and inserts142, coupled the respective magnets144,146and inserts142together, and/or to maintain the shape of second strap portion118of wearable band110. In another non-limiting example, protective layer150may be formed from any suitable material that may add structural support and/or stiffness to wearable band110, such as a molded elastomer, liquid crystal polymer fibers (e.g., Vectran®), aromatic polyester fibers, para-aramid fibers (e.g., Kevlar®), polyamide fibers (e.g., Nylon®), and the like.

Additionally, second strap portion118may include a filler material152. As shown inFIG. 4, filler material152may substantially surround first magnets144of first group of components138, second magnets146of second group of components140and/or the plurality of inserts142. Additionally, filler material152may substantially surround protective layer150of second strap portion118. As shown inFIG. 4, filler material152may substantially surround magnets144,146, inserts142, and/or protective layer150, and may fill in the space between magnets144,146, inserts142, and/or protective layer150, and coupling component126. Filler material152may be formed from any suitable material that may provide and/or maintain the structure of second strap portion118including, but not limited to, fabric, foam, rubber, molded elastomer, liquid crystal polymer fibers (e.g., Vectran®), aromatic polyester fibers, para-aramid fibers (e.g., Kevlar®), polyamide fibers (e.g., Nylon®), or the like.

Although not shown, it is understood that first strap portion112, similar to second strap portion118, may also include filler material152. That is, first strap portion112may also include filler material152to substantially maintain the structure, texture, thickness and/or appearance as second strap portion118.

FIGS. 5A and 5Bshow cross-section side views of distinct portions of second strap portion118of wearable band110. In a non-limiting example,FIG. 5Ashows a cross-section side view of second strap portion118taken along line5A-5A ofFIG. 4, and depicts first magnets144of first group of components138positioned between top layer120and bottom layer122of second strap portion118. Additionally,FIG. 5Bshows a cross-section side view of second strap portion118taken along line5B-5B ofFIG. 4, and depicts second magnets146of second group of components140positioned between top layer120and bottom layer122of second strap portion118. It is understood that similarly named components or similarly numbered components may function in a substantially similar fashion, may include similar materials and/or may include similar interactions with other components. Redundant explanation of these components has been omitted for clarity.

As shown inFIGS. 5A and 5B, second strap portion118may also include a magnetic shield154. In non-limiting examples, a plurality of magnetic shields154may be coupled to or substantially surround a portion of each first magnet144(see,FIG. 5A) and each second magnet146(see,FIG. 5B), respectively. The portion of each first magnet144and second magnet146covered by magnetic shield154may be a bottom portion of each magnet144,146positioned adjacent bottom layer122of second strap portion118. As shown inFIGS. 5A and 5B, magnetic shield154may cover a portion of first magnets144and second magnets146, respectively, positioned directly adjacent bottom layer122. A top portion of magnets144,146, opposite the bottom portion covered by magnetic shield154, may remain substantially uncovered to aid in the magnetic coupling of magnets144,146and/or inserts142during use of wearable electronic device100, as discussed herein. Magnetic shield154of second strap portion118may substantially block, redirect or minimize a magnetic flux in a portion of the magnets144,146covered by magnetic shield154. In the non-limiting example, magnetic shield154may block a portion of the magnetic flux of first magnets144and second magnets146in areas that may be exposed to foreign magnetic materials or objects, in order to prevent wearable band110including second strap portion118, from being undesirably attracted or magnetically coupled to foreign objects. In a non-limiting example, magnetic shield154may be made from an iron alloy (e.g., steel).

Second strap portion118of wearable band110may also include a resin outer coating156. As shown inFIGS. 5A and 5B, resin outer coating156may be formed around each of first magnets144and magnetic shield154(see,FIG. 5A), and second magnets146and magnetic shield154(see,FIG. 5B), respectively. Resign outer coating156may form a barrier around magnets144,146and magnetic shield154, and may separate magnets144,146and magnetic shield154from distinct components (e.g., protective layer150, filler material152) positioned between top layer120and bottom layer122of second strap portion118. Resin outer coating156may be formed using any suitable casting technique or process, and may be formed around the respective magnets144,146and magnetic shield154to encompass both components. Additionally, Resin outer coating156may be formed from any suitable resin material that may formed around magnets144,146and magnetic shield154to maintain the coupling between magnets144,146and magnetic shield154, and/or provide structure to magnets144,146and magnetic shield154within second strap portion118.

As shown inFIGS. 5A and 5B, top layer120and bottom layer122may include protrusions158positioned substantially adjacent magnets144,146. In a non-limiting example, the portions of top layer120and bottom layer122positioned directly above and/or below magnets144,146may include protrusions158, extending above the remaining portions of top layer120and bottom layer122, respectively. Protrusions158may be formed in top layer120and bottom layer122as a result of the dimension of magnets144,146, magnetic shields154and/or resin outer coating156, as well as, the hardness of each of the components (e.g., magnets144,146, magnetic shields154and so on) positioned between protrusions158. Additionally, protrusions158may be formed as a result of magnets144,146and/or magnetic shield154being formed from materials that are not substantially deformable, and/or because magnets144,146, magnetic shields154and/or resin outer coating156may be substantially larger than protective layer150. However, protrusions158may be substantially minimal and may or may not be visible to a user of wearable band110. That is, protrusions158, although extending above the remaining portions of top layer120and below bottom layer122of second strap portion118, may only extend above/below a negligible amount, such that a user of wearable band110including second strap portion118may view top layer120and bottom layer122as substantially linear surfaces. As discussed herein, protrusions158formed on top layer120and bottom layer122may aid in the aligning and/or magnetic coupling of second strap portion118when wearable electronic device100is coupled to a user using wearable band110.

Turning toFIGS. 6-9, a description of how wearable band110functions to couple wearable electronic device100(see,FIG. 1) to a user may now be discussed. Specifically,FIGS. 6-9may illustrate how a portion of second band118is positioned through loop128of first band112and folded back onto itself, such that second magnets146of second group of components140may be coupled to first magnets144of first group of components138and/or inserts142to secure wearable band110around a user.

FIG. 6shows a top view of wearable band110of wearable electronic device100(see,FIG. 1) including second strap portion118coupled to first strap portion112. More specifically, free end132of second strap portion118may be positioned or feed through opening134of loop128coupled to first strap portion112, and may be subsequently pulled toward housing end124of second strap portion118to couple second strap portion118to first strap portion112. As shown inFIG. 6, and as discussed herein, free end132may be feed through an opening formed by retention loop135, and retention loop135may aid in securing a portion of second strap portion118to the remainder of second strap portion118. Additionally, as a result of folding a portion160of second strap portion118back onto itself to couple second strap portion118to first strap portion112, bottom layer122of the folded portion160may be exposed and/or facing away from a contact surface (e.g., user's skin) in which the wearable band110is coupled.

FIG. 7depicts a side view of a portion of wearable band including second strap portion118coupled to first strap portion112. In a non-limiting example shown inFIG. 7, second strap portion118may be positioned or feed through opening134of loop128coupled to first strap portion112, and may be subsequently pulled toward housing end124(see,FIG. 6) of second strap portion118to couple second strap portion118to first strap portion112. As shown inFIG. 7, folded portion160of second strap portion118positioned through and/or adjacent loop128of first strap portion112may include a substantial curve in the material forming second strap portion118to fold folded portion160back onto the remaining portion of second strap portion118. The folded portion160may include this curve, and ultimately may include a minimal height (H) difference within folded portion160, as a result of magnets144,146being separated and/or spaced apart. In the non-limiting example, folded portion160may be closely folded around loop128of first strap portion112, such that the height (H) of the fold is substantially small, as a result of magnets144,146being spaced apart and/or separated by the flexible material forming protective layer150. When spaced apart, magnets144,146may not substantially obstruct or limit the flexibility of second strap portion118by contacting each other during the folding of folded portion160around loop128. The height (H) of folded portion160may be substantially small or negligible to avoid the undesirable catching of folding portion160on another object, and ultimately the uncoupling of folded portion160from the remaining portion of second strap portion118.

FIG. 8shows an enlarged cross-section side view of a portion of second strap portion118inFIG. 7. In a non-limiting example,FIG. 8shows a portion of fold portion160including second magnets146coupled to the remaining portion of second strap portion118including first magnets144. When fold portion160contacts the remaining portion of second strap portion118, the respective magnets,144,146may be magnetically attracted to, and/or coupled to one another. That is, and as shown inFIG. 8, second magnets146included in folded portion160may be positioned adjacent and/or above first magnets144of second strap portion118, and may be magnetically coupled to surrounding first magnets144. The magnetic attraction between first magnet144and second magnet146may be illustrated withinFIG. 8using reference arrows. As shown inFIG. 8, and discussed in detail herein, the polarity configuration of magnets144,146may result in second magnets144being aligned between and magnetically coupled to two distinct first magnets146. As a result, magnets144,146may be aligned in a staggered configuration as shown inFIG. 8.

Additionally as shown inFIG. 8, protrusions158formed on top layer120and bottom layer122of second strap portion118may aid in the staggered alignment of first magnets144and second magnets146. Protrusions158of folded portion160may be positioned between protrusions158formed in the remaining portion of second strap portion118to align first magnets144with second magnets146in a staggered configuration. As discussed herein, the staggering of first magnets144and second magnets146may provide for a strong bond or magnetic coupling between folded portion160and the remaining portion of second strap portion118.

As shown inFIG. 8, and discussed herein, protrusion158formed on top layer120of folder portion160of second strap portion118may be positioned adjacent to protrusions158formed on top layer120of the remaining portion of second strap portion118. Additionally, bottom layer122in folded portion160and bottom layer122of the remaining portion of second strap portion118may be positioned opposite one another and/or may be exposed. As a result, and as shown inFIG. 8, magnetic shields154may also be positioned adjacent the exposed bottom layer122. As discussed herein, magnetic shields154may be positioned adjacent the exposed bottom layer122when folded portion160is coupled to the remaining portion of second strap portion118to prevent wearable band110from being undesirably attracted to and/or magnetically coupled to foreign objects.

FIG. 9shows an enlarged top view of a portion of second strap portion118after free end132is fold over and positioned on the remaining portion of second strap portion118. Top layer120of second strap portion118is removed inFIG. 9to clearly show the alignment of first magnets144(shown in phantom), and second magnets146in folded portion160of second strap118. As shown inFIG. 9, first magnets144and second magnets146may be magnetized and/or include various alternating magnetic fields or polarities (e.g., north (N), south (S)) over the length of the magnet. In a non-limiting example, first magnets144may include a first configuration of alternating magnetic fields over the length of the magnet, and second magnets146may include a second configuration of alternating magnetic fields over the length of the magnet, distinct from the first configuration of first magnets144. As shown inFIG. 9, each of the individual magnetic fields of the second configuration of alternating magnetic fields for second magnets146may include a magnetic polarity opposite to a corresponding individual magnet field of the first configuration of alternating magnetic fields for first magnets144.

The configuration of magnetic fields for first magnets144and second magnets146may be opposite one another to form a magnetic attraction or magnetic bond between the respective magnets, as discussed herein. In a non-limiting example, each individual portion of second magnet146includes a polarity that may be magnetically attracted to and/or magnetically bonded to a corresponding portion of first magnet144including an opposite polarity. Additionally, as a result of spacing the magnets apart, within second strap portion118, each second magnet146may be positioned between and may be magnetically attracted to and/or magnetically bonded to two first magnets144positioned on either side of second magnet146. This may ultimately result in a strong magnetic bond between folded portion160of second strap portion118and the remaining portion of second strap portion118when wearable band110is coupled to a user's wrist. Finally, the first and second configurations of the magnetic fields for each of first magnets144and second magnets146may allow folded portion160of second strap portion118to be aligned with the remaining portion of second strap portion118during magnetic bonding or coupling. In the non-limiting example shown inFIG. 9, both first magnets144and second magnets146include a plurality of alternating, and opposite, magnetic fields throughout the entire length of the respective magnets. As a result, second magnets146may be aligned with, and magnetically bonded to first magnets144in such a way that all portions are magnetically bonded or attracted. Furthermore, when magnetically bonded, the magnetic field configurations of first magnets144and second magnets146may not only align the respective magnets, but may also align the edges of folded portion160and the remaining portion of second strap portion118when wearable band110is coupled to a user.

In an additional non-limiting example, protrusions158of top layer120and bottom layer122of the respective strap portions may be substantially aligned and/or contacting when utilizing wearable band110.FIG. 10shows an enlarged cross-section side view of a portion of second strap portion118inFIG. 7, according to another embodiment. In a non-limiting example shown inFIG. 10, a portion of fold portion160including second magnets146may be coupled to the remaining portion of second strap portion118including first magnets144. LikeFIG. 8, the respective magnets144,146may be magnetically attracted to, and/or coupled to one another, as illustrated inFIG. 10using reference arrows. Distinct fromFIG. 8, protrusions158of second strap portion118may be in substantial alignment and/or may contact each other when folded portion160of second strap portion118is magnetically coupled to the remaining portion of second strap portion118. In the non-limiting example, the polarity configuration of magnets144,146may result in first magnets146being aligned directly above and magnetically coupled to a single, corresponding second magnets144. As a result, and compared toFIG. 8, each of the first magnets144may be aligned in a common vertical plane as a corresponding second magnet146as shown inFIG. 10. Additionally, each protrusion158of folded portion160may also be aligned in a common vertical plane with a corresponding protrusion158in the remaining portion of second strap portion118, and no protrusions158included in the folded portion160may be positioned between two distinct protrusions158of the remaining portion of second strap portion118. As discussed herein, a common vertical plane may be understood as a vertical plane passing through a top and bottom magnet and/or protrusions with respect to the orientation and positioning shown inFIG. 10.

As shown inFIG. 10, and as discussed herein, protrusion158formed on top layer120of folder portion160of second strap portion118may be positioned adjacent to, and substantially aligned with, corresponding protrusions158formed on top layer120of the remaining portion of second strap portion118. Additionally, bottom layer122in folded portion160and bottom layer122of the remaining portion of second strap portion118may be positioned opposite one another, aligned and/or exposed. As a result, and as shown inFIG. 10, magnetic shields154may also be positioned adjacent the exposed bottom layer122. As discussed herein, magnetic shields154may be positioned adjacent the exposed bottom layer122when folded portion160is coupled to the remaining portion of second strap portion118.

As similarly discussed herein with respect toFIG. 9, first magnets144and second magnets146may be magnetized and/or include various alternating magnetic fields or polarities (e.g., north (N), south (S)) over the length of the magnet. In a non-limiting example, first magnets144may include a first configuration of alternating magnetic fields over the length of the magnet, and second magnets146may include a second configuration of alternating magnetic fields over the length of the magnet, distinct from the first configuration of first magnets144. Each of the individual magnetic fields of the second configuration of alternating magnetic fields for second magnets146may include a magnetic polarity opposite to a corresponding individual magnet field of the first configuration of alternating magnetic fields for first magnets144.

The configuration of magnetic fields for first magnets144and second magnets146may be opposite one another to form a magnetic attraction or magnetic bond between the respective magnets, as discussed herein. In a non-limiting example, each individual portion of second magnet146including a first polarity may be magnetically attracted to and/or magnetically bonded to a corresponding portion of first magnet144including an opposite polarity. Additionally, as a result of the configuration of the magnets within second strap portion118, each second magnet146may be aligned in a common plane and may be magnetically attracted to and/or magnetically bonded to a single, corresponding first magnet144directly below second magnet146.

Although not shown inFIG. 10, it is understood that the magnetic attraction and/or the coupling of the folded portion160and the remaining portion of second strap portion118may cause at least a partial deformation in wearable band110. As a result of the flexible and/or elastic material used to form at least a portion of second strap portion118, aligned and contacting protrusions158of second strap portion118may be deformed, such that second strap portion118is substantially flat or linear. The deformation of protrusions158may be based on the magnetic attraction and/or magnetic coupling formed between the magnets144,146of wearable band110.

Although shown herein as including two distinct straps (e.g., first strap portion112, second strap portion118), wearable band may be formed from a single strap. In a non-limiting example shown inFIG. 11, wearable band1010may be formed as a single strap, such that first strap portion1012and second strap portion1018may be integrally formed. It is understood that similarly named components or similarly numbered components may function in a substantially similar fashion, may include similar materials and/or may include similar interactions with other components. Redundant explanation of these components has been omitted for clarity.

As discussed herein, wearable band1010may be formed from a single piece of material. That is, wearable band1010may be formed from a single piece of material (e.g., leather), where top layer1020is folded over and positioned above bottom layer1022(not shown) to form wearable band1010. Where wearable band1010is formed from a single piece of material, the fold in the material to differentiate between top layer1020and bottom layer1022may be positioned at end1030, adjacent loop1028. The single piece of material forming wearable band1010may be feed through loop1028of wearable band1010, and loop1028may be partially positioned between top layer1020and bottom layer1022, and secured at end1030of wearable band1010. In another non-limiting example, not shown, single strap wearable band1010may be formed from two pieces of material, where each piece of material forms a respective layer (e.g., top, bottom) of wearable band1010.

Wearable band1010, as shown inFIG. 11, may function substantially similar to wearable band110discussed herein with respect toFIGS. 1-10. That is, wearable band1010may include free end1032positioned opposite, and capable of being positioned through loop1028to be folded back onto a remaining portion of wearable band1010to couple wearable electronic device100(see,FIG. 1) to a user. Although not shown, it is understood that second strap portion1018of wearable band1010may include a similar internal configuration as second strap portion118discussed herein with respect toFIG. 4. In a non-limiting example, wearable band1010may also include a first group of components (e.g., first magnets), a second group of components (e.g., second magnets) and a plurality of inserts positioned between the first and second group of components. The first and second group of components and plurality of inserts may be utilized to couple a folded portion of second strap portion1018to a remaining portion of wearable band1010to ultimately couple wearable electronic device100to a user, as discussed herein with respect toFIGS. 1-10.

FIG. 12depicts an example process for forming a wearable band for a wearable electronic device. Specifically,FIG. 12is a flowchart depicting one example process1100for forming a wearable band for a wearable electronic device. In some cases, the process may be used to form one or more wearable bands, as discussed above with respect toFIGS. 1-11.

In a preliminary, optional operation1102(shown in phantom) a plurality of components may be processed. More specifically, at least a portion of a plurality of components having magnetic properties may undergo preliminary processes. The processing of at least a portion of the plurality of components may include at least one of coupling a magnetic shield to at least one side of at least the portion of the plurality of components, and/or forming a resin coating around at least the portion of the plurality of components. Additionally, the resin coating formed around the components may also be formed around the magnetic shield, where a magnet shield is coupled to at least one side of at least the portion of the plurality of components.

In operation1104, a plurality of components may be coupled to a protective layer. The plurality of components may include magnetic properties. The coupling of the plurality of components may include coupling a first group of magnets to the protective layer, and coupling a second group of magnets to the protective layer opposite the first group of magnets. The first and second group of magnets may or may not be magnetized when coupled to the protective layer. The coupling of operation1104may also include coupling a plurality of inserts to the protective layer between the first group of magnets and the second group of magnets. Like the first and second group of magnets, the plurality of inserts may include magnetic properties (e.g., magnetic field, magnetic attraction, and so on). Additionally, the coupling of the plurality of components to the protective layer may also include positioning at least a portion of the protective layer between each of the components (e.g., first and second group of magnets, inserts). Each of the first group of magnets, second group of magnets and plurality of inserts may be spaced apart from one another, and/or may be separated by a portion of the protective layer.

In operation1106, a filler material may be coupled to at least one of the protective layer and/or plurality of components. More specifically, a filler material may be coupled to at least one of the first group of magnets, the second group of magnets, the plurality of inserts and/or the protective layer. Filler material may be coupled to the respective components (e.g., magnets, inserts, protective layer) to form substantially a perimeter around the components. The coupling of the filler material to the protective layer and/or plurality of components may also result in the formation of an internal assembly. The internal assembly may include the first group of magnets, the second group of magnets, the plurality of inserts, the protective layer and the filler material.

In operation1108, the internal assembly may be positioned within a strap of a wearable electronic device. More specifically, the internal assembly, including the first and second group of magnets, the inserts, the protective layer and the filler material, may be positioned and/or secured within a strap of a wearable electronic device. The strap may be formed from a single piece of material, or a plurality of pieces of material. Where the strap is formed from a single piece of material, the positioning of the internal assembly in operation1108may further include positioning the internal assembly on an inner surface of a bottom layer of the strap, and subsequently folding a top layer of the strap over the internal assembly and bottom layer. Additionally, the strap may be formed as a single strap that may be coupled to the wearable electronic device, or strap may be formed from multiple pieces, that may be individually coupled to the wearable electronic device.

In operation1110(shown in phantom), at least a portion of the plurality of components of the internal assembly may be magnetized. That is, the first group of magnets and second group of magnets, if not magnetized already, may undergo an magnetizing process. The magnetizing of the portion of components included in the internal assembly may include magnetizing the first group of magnets to have a first unique pattern of polarities, and magnetizing the second group of magnets to have a second unique pattern of polarities, distinct and/or opposite from the first unique pattern of polarities of the first group of magnets. The first group and second group of magnets may include distinct and/or opposite polarities so that the second group of magnets may be magnetically coupled to the first group of magnets during use of the wearable band. Additionally, the distinct and/or opposite polarities between the first and second group of magnets may aid in the alignment of the portions of the band including the respective magnets during use of the wearable band. The second group of magnets may also be magnetically coupled to and/or attracted to the plurality of inserts including magnetic properties.

Although not shown, the internal assembly and/or the strap may undergo additional process for forming a wearable band for a wearable electronic device. For example, at least a portion of the strap may be cut. In a non-limiting example, the strap may undergo a cutting process, where at least a portion of the strap is cut. The strap may be cut to alter the length, and/or width of the strap to a specific or desired dimension. Additionally, a free end of the strap that may be folded back onto a portion of the strap to couple to wearable band to a user may also be cut so that the free end visually and/or cosmetically matches the width of the remaining portion of the wearable band. The strap may be cut prior to positioning the internal assembly within the strap, or subsequent to positioning the internal assembly within the strap.

An additional process not shown may include bonding the edges of the strap including the internal assembly. More specifically, subsequent to positioning the internal assembly within the strap, the edges of the top layer and the bottom layer forming the strap may be bonded together to maintain the internal assembly within the strap. The edges may be bonded using any suitable bonding component or technique. In non-limiting examples, the edges of the strap may be bonded using an adhesive or by stitching the top layer to the bottom layer using a thread positioned through the respective layers adjacent the edges of the strap.