Patent Description:
<CIT>discusses a wrist-worn electronic device and methods therefor. In particular, it discusses a single layer wristband where the electronic components are suspended within the mold using insert molding and/or double shot injection molding.

<CIT>discusses a wearable device and platform for sensory input from a sensor coupled to a framework. This document explains that the sensors are coupled to a molded band. The molded band containing the sensors may then have a second decorative molding layer over the initial molded band containing the sensors.

<CIT>discusses a wearable device having athletic functionality. The band of the device uses a two layer system where the electronics are put into compartments in the mold of one layer called a spine member <NUM> and then the second layer called an outer encasement member <NUM> covers that compartmented molded layer <NUM>.

Implementations of the disclosed technology relate to wearable device <NUM> that may include a display device <NUM>, such as a watch, and a securing device <NUM>, such as a watch band. The securing device <NUM> contains electronic circuitry. The wearable device <NUM> may be used with an external device, such as a smartphone. The technology disclosed herein can be used with any wearable device <NUM>, including but not limited to smart necklaces, bracelets, and other devices pinned or otherwise attached to a user's clothing or body. An overlay portion of the securing device may be provided to contact a series of contacts on the back of the display device. The same contacts may be used to charge the watch when a charging cable is connected. The dual use of the contacts, if provided, simplifies the display device design by minimizing contacts needed. Various devices are disclosed to allow simple attachment and/or removal of the securing device from the display device.

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate an implementation of apparatuses and methods that together with the detailed description, serve to explain advantages and principles consistent with the invention.

Multiple variations are discussed of a wearable device <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. Generally the wearable device <NUM> is made up of a display device <NUM>, and a securing device, <NUM> to which the display device <NUM> may be attached. In some of the embodiments, the securing device <NUM> of the wearable device <NUM> includes circuitry that can be in communication with the display device <NUM>, and can further expand the functionality and capability of the display device <NUM>. While examples are given of a wearable device <NUM> that is a smartwatch, the wearable devices disclosed herein are useful in other formats.

With this in mind, the following description begins with a wearable device <NUM> with reference to <FIG>-(d), which implements electronic circuitry into securing device where the securing device takes the form of a band. The circuitry in the securing device may be configured to perform various tasks, which will be discussed in greater detail herein. The description continues with <FIG>, which is a cross-sectional view of an assembled wearable device <NUM>, like that illustrated in <FIG>-(d). Next, the description continues with the flow charts illustrated in <FIG>-(b), which illustrate and describe two exemplary, but non-exclusive, methods of assembling and/or manufacturing a securing device, for instance, like that shown in <FIG>-(d) and <NUM>. Next follows the description relating to <FIG>-(c), <NUM>(a)-(c) and <NUM>(a)-(c), which illustrates various embodiments of, and uses for, the wearable devices <NUM>, like the examples disclosed in <FIG>-(d), <NUM> and <NUM>. Next follows the description related to <FIG>, which illustrates the steps of at least one embodiment where certain events are automatically triggered by the connecting of components of the wearable device <NUM> from <FIG>-(d), <NUM> and <NUM>.

Turning now to <FIG>-(d), a securing device specifically shown as a band is shown, which may be comprised of electronic circuitry configured to communicate with a display device, <NUM>. The securing device is illustrated in three different layers, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, which may be formed together into a securing device, as later shown in <FIG> at <NUM>. Turning to <FIG>, a display device <NUM> shown by example in the form of a watch that may be a smartwatch device is illustrated. The display device <NUM> may contain any number of electronic components, including but not limited to a processor, memory, wireless interface (e.g., BlueTooth), charging interface (all not shown), buttons, <NUM>, and a display, <NUM>. The display device <NUM> may also be capable of communicating with an external device, such as a smartphone or tablet. In this way, the display device <NUM> may receive notifications from the external device to alert the user of the devices of an incoming communication or alert. In this embodiment, the display device <NUM> has a liquid crystal display ("LCD") <NUM> configured to display contents generated by the device <NUM>. Those having ordinary skill in the art would recognize that while a LCD is illustrated in this embodiment, any other type of displays may be suitable for use with this invention, such as e-paper, electronic ink ("E Ink"), organic light-emitting diode displays ("OLED"), or active-matrix organic light-emitting diode ("AMOLED"). The display device <NUM> as shown contains four tabs <NUM>, which are designed to allow the display device <NUM> to be attached to the securing device, <NUM> in <FIG>, which will be discussed in greater detail herein. The display device <NUM> may include a plurality of buttons <NUM>, which may enable a user to control the settings or functionality of the display device <NUM>. While the buttons <NUM> disclosed are physical obtrusive buttons, touch sensors could be used in lieu thereof, thereby conserving space on the side of the display device <NUM>. Alternatively, the buttons <NUM> could be built into the display, which could be touch based to allow a user to control the display device <NUM> without the need for potentially obtrusive buttons placed on other portions of the display device <NUM>. The bottom surface (not shown) of the display device <NUM> may also include an interface (e.g., pogo pins) for coupling the display device <NUM> to the securing device, which will be discussed in greater detail herein.

Turning now to <FIG>, perspective view of a first layer <NUM> of the securing device is shown. A first layer <NUM> of the band is the outer most layer of the fully assembled apparatus. The first layer <NUM> may be made of any material suitable to allow the securing device to be worn, such as leather, cloth, rubber, plastic, or other material. The material use can also assist in presenting a desired aesthetic. As would be understood by those having ordinary skill in the art, the type of material suitable for use as the first layer <NUM> may change depending on the intended use of the band. The first layer <NUM> may be made of plastic because of its water-resistant qualities, rendering it capable of being used in a water environment. A housing <NUM> is disposed between two sections of the securing device. The housing <NUM> may be comprised of plastic, (e.g., Polycarbonate or Polycarbonate/Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene), metal (e.g., steel, or aluminum) or any other material. The housing <NUM> is designed to receive the display device <NUM> such that it is firmly secured or coupled to the securing device. This may be accomplished by snapping the four tabs <NUM> of the display device <NUM> into the four receiving members <NUM> of the housing <NUM> of the securing device. The first layer <NUM> may include a clasp connector <NUM>. The clasp connector <NUM> is designed to attach to a clamp, such as clamp <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>. However, it would be apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art that the securing device could be closed around a user's wrist using other connections, such as a ratchet, magnet, bucket connector, fold over clasp, toggle clasp, tongue clasp, or other fastener. Depending on the type of clasp used, clasp connector <NUM> may not be necessitated.

Turning now to <FIG>, a perspective view of a second layer <NUM> (e.g., Low Pressure Molded ("LPM") layer) of the securing device is shown. The second layer <NUM> also comprises a surface <NUM> interposed between two sections of the second layer <NUM>, the surface <NUM> mating with the upward facing surface of the housing <NUM> when the first and second layers are joined together. The surface <NUM> is designed to allow circuitry within the securing device to interface with circuitry (e.g., the display, processor, memory, etc.) of the display device <NUM>. A series of through holes <NUM> may be used to allow pins on the bottom surface of the display device <NUM> to electrically connect with circuitry in the securing device, which will be discussed in more detail with regard to <FIG>. A rubber gasket <NUM> is disposed on the top of the surface <NUM> around the holes <NUM>, while a steel member <NUM> is disposed on the bottom of the surface <NUM> around holes (shown as <NUM> in <FIG>), providing some sealing for the interface between the securing device and display device <NUM> and the securing device and other external circuitry, such as a battery charger (not shown). As will be discussed in greater detail with regard to <FIG>, disposed within the second layer <NUM> is a third layer <NUM>, which may be comprised of electronic circuitry, the third layer <NUM> being secured to the second layer <NUM> by an adhesive or other fastener, such as a mechanical fastener like a spring biased pin or cotter pin. In one embodiment, the second layer <NUM> is formed around the third layer <NUM>, which in in some instances may mean that the third layer <NUM> is protected from exposure to liquid.

Turning now to <FIG>, the third layer <NUM> of the securing device is illustrated in the perspective view. The third layer <NUM> is comprised of electronic circuitry which may be comprised of a Polyether ether keton (PEEK), transparent conductive polyester film, Copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS), or other flexible circuit materials (FCM) known in the art. As would be understood by those having ordinary skill in the art, FCM are typically comprised of: (<NUM>) a base material (e.g., polyester (PET), polyimide (PI), Polyethermide (PEI), etc.); (<NUM>) a bonding adhesive, which constitute a flexible polymer film that provides the foundation for a laminate; and (<NUM>) a metal foil which is commonly used as the conductive element. FCM are particularly advantageous because they allow for the creation of thin, flexible, and light circuitry for use in unique applications, such as the band of a smartwatch, or similar electronics. While FCM is described, it would be understood by those having ordinary skill in the art that any type of circuitry capable of being incorporated into the securing device may be utilized, such as printed circuit board ("PCB"). The third layer <NUM> may be encapsulated by the second layer <NUM> such that the third layer <NUM> is protected from exposure to liquids. The third layer <NUM> is comprised of a first circuitry section <NUM>, second circuitry section <NUM>, and bridge layer <NUM> connecting the first circuitry section <NUM> and second circuitry section <NUM>. The third layer <NUM> may also include a battery <NUM> capable of electronically connecting to display device <NUM> to act as the exclusive source of power or as an additional source of power. Alternatively, the battery <NUM> may act as a backup in case a battery of the display device <NUM> loses its charge. The battery <NUM> may be a Prologium Flexible Battery, ultrathin zinc-polymer battery, flexible lithium ion battery, Flexible Lithium-Ceramic Battery (FLCB) or other battery material. In some instances it is beneficial for the battery <NUM> to have sufficient flexibility to allow the securing device to freely bend without damaging the battery <NUM>.

The third layer <NUM> may communicate with the display device <NUM> and/or other electronic circuitry, such as battery charger <NUM>, via any suitable interface. The charger <NUM> comprises a connector <NUM> sufficient to allow the charger <NUM> to maintain electric connectivity to the third layer <NUM> and/or the display device <NUM> via a flat mating surface. The mating surface <NUM> may be a flat copper surface or plurality of surfaces (i.e., an upward facing and downward facing surface) on or embedded within both sides of third layer <NUM>, wherein the copper surface(s) are capable of receiving: (<NUM>) electronic interface pins protruding downward from the bottom of external device <NUM> and/or (<NUM>) electronic interface pins protruding upward from the charger <NUM> or other electronic devices. In this manner, the display device <NUM> and charger <NUM> (or other electronic circuitry) may be connected to the securing device alone or in combination. The connector <NUM> may also include magnets to aid it in interfacing with the downward facing portion of the mating surface <NUM>. In this way, a user will not be required to physically snap or latch the connector <NUM> to the securing device, which may be tedious and difficult given that the downward facing portion (not shown) of the mating surface <NUM> for the charger connection is on the bottom of the housing <NUM>. The display device <NUM> may have pins <NUM> protruding downward from its bottom for interfacing with the upward facing portion of the flat mating surface <NUM> of the third layer <NUM> via through-holes <NUM>. Specifically, a user may insert the display device <NUM> into the housing <NUM> by snapping the display device <NUM> in place via the protruding members <NUM> and receiving member <NUM>, so that the pins <NUM> (in particular the pins can be pogo pins) protruding from display device <NUM> engage with the upward facing portion of the mating surface <NUM> of the third layer <NUM>. Likewise, the upward facing pins of the battery charger <NUM> may then be connected to the downward facing portion (not shown) of the flat mating surface <NUM> on the third layer <NUM>. While in this embodiment pins <NUM> and a flat mating surface <NUM> on third layer <NUM> are utilized to facilitate communication between the display device <NUM> and securing device, it would be understood by those having ordinary skill in the art that any type of connector known in the art for coupling electronics may be used.

The third layer <NUM> may also include one or more miscellaneous circuits <NUM> configured to perform a variety of functions. The miscellaneous circuitry <NUM> may be configured to: (<NUM>) GPS track; (<NUM>) monitor health (e.g., skin resistance, heart rate/pulse sensor, and skin temperature); (<NUM>) receive/transmit wireless signals (e.g., for Wi-Fi, BlueTooth, Near Field Communication ("NFC"), Radio Frequency Identification ("RFID"));(<NUM>) emit audible, vibratory, light shock, or visual signals; (<NUM>) act as an additional display (e.g., a small LCD display or a plurality of LEDs forming a display); (<NUM>) provide additional memory; (<NUM>) record/output audio or process audio commands to control the securing device or display device <NUM>; (<NUM>) charge a BlueTooth headset; (<NUM>) automatically tighten the securing device to the precise size of the user's wrist using a material such as PolyPower DEAP material, which expands and contracts with electricity; (<NUM>) allow a user to create their own circuitry on the exterior of the securing device using, for example, a breadboard; (<NUM>) allow a user to control the securing device or display device <NUM> using a touch sensor on the securing device; (<NUM>) allow a user to charge or communicate with the securing device and/or display device <NUM> via an end of the securing device that comprises an interface (e.g., a USB interface); (<NUM>) automatically configure or control the display device <NUM> and/or allow the display device <NUM> to automatically configure or control the circuitry layer <NUM>; and (<NUM>) fingerprint ID using the securing device.

Turning now to <FIG>, a cross-sectional view of the full assembly of the assembled wearable device <NUM> from <FIG>-(d) is illustrated. Full cross-sectional view <NUM> is illustrated with detailed view <NUM> focused on the central portion of the securing device <NUM> and display device <NUM>. As shown, the first layer <NUM> is the outer most visible layer of the securing device <NUM>, while the third layer <NUM> is interposed within second layer <NUM>. The display device <NUM> is secured within housing <NUM> via receiving members <NUM> (not shown). Charging connector <NUM> is coupled to the third layer <NUM> and display device <NUM> via pins (not shown). A foam gasket may be used to seal around the pins.

Turning now to <FIG>, flowcharts illustrating exemplary methods of assembling the apparatus from <FIG>-(d) and <NUM> are shown. It should be noted initially that the methods <NUM> and <NUM> are simplified flowcharts to represent useful processes but they do not limit the sequence in which the functions take place or even the functions that may take place in order to achieve the apparatus from <FIG>-(d) and <NUM>. Indeed, those having ordinary skill in the art would understand that the apparatus can be formed using any molding technique, such as compression molding, transfer molding, injection molding, insert molding, and/or double shot injection molding.

As shown, the manufacturing process <NUM> starts at step <NUM> which may include the forming of the second layer <NUM>, by injection molding, which would generally be performed using a polymer, but may alternatively include a metal (e.g., steel). Injection molding may be less flexible than utilizing spring steel as the base structure. Next, at <NUM> an adhesive layer is applied to a portion of the second layer <NUM>. The adhesive layer may be comprised of any material suitable to secure the third layer <NUM> to the adhesive layer. At step <NUM>, the third layer <NUM> is secured to the second layer <NUM> using the adhesive layer from step <NUM>, for example double-sided tape. Finally, at step <NUM> the assembly of the circuitry layer <NUM>, adhesive layer, and portion of second layer <NUM> are overmolded, to create a further portion of the second layer <NUM>. The second layer <NUM> therefore encapsulates the third layer <NUM>, containing the circuitry. The first layer <NUM> may then be applied to the assembly <NUM>, which may comprise steel, leather, or another material (i.e., a fabric layer). If it is desired to use a chain-link type material (or any material that has openings) as the first layer <NUM>, it may be helpful to first overmold the adhesive layer and the third layer <NUM> before applying the chain-link material (i.e., a fabric layer). This may ensure that the circuitry layer <NUM> is protected from liquid exposure.

While not expressly illustrated in the manufacturing process <NUM>, a hole may be left in the top center of a portion of the overmolded second layer <NUM> of the securing device. Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) may then be injection molded or a hard material may be low pressure molded over the exposed center portion to form a water-resistant seal where the housing <NUM> is secured to the securing device <NUM>. The housing <NUM> may then be secured to the center portion of the securing device <NUM> using any number of ways known in the art, which were previously discussed. Alternatively, also as previously discussed, the housing <NUM> may be fully integrated into the band by overmolding the housing <NUM> into the securing device <NUM>. Additionally, a clasp, such as clasp <NUM>, may be attached to one end of the securing device. The fastener may be designed to allow one end of the securing device to clamp to the opposing end of it without the need for holes in the band.

In yet another embodiment of a manufacturing process, the manufacturing process <NUM> starts at <NUM> possibly with the forming of a spring steel frame, which would be part of the second layer <NUM>, into a desired shape for the band. Spring steel is very flexible but will typically return to its original form. Therefore, the spring steel frame must generally be initially formed into the desired shape prior to implementing it into the securing device <NUM>. Additionally, because spring steel attempts to revert to its original form, it may be necessary to form the spring steel frame for an intended wearer's wrist size (e.g. "large wrist size," "medium wrist size"). Next, at step <NUM> an adhesive layer is applied to the spring steel frame. At step <NUM>, the third layer <NUM> with any circuitry is secured to the spring steel frame using the adhesive layer. The second layer <NUM> therefore encapsulates the spring steel structure, adhesive layer, and third layer <NUM>. Finally, at step <NUM> the assembly of the third layer <NUM>, adhesive layer, and spring steel frame are covered with the first layer <NUM>. Alternatively, the second layer <NUM>, adhesive layer, and third layer <NUM> may be overmolded and then covered with the first layer <NUM>. As previously discussed, the first layer <NUM> may also be comprised of a harder material, such as stainless steel. Such materials may be desirable by some wearers because of the more expensive appearance of the material.

The second layer <NUM> can be made with polymer or other material (e.g., a metal) suitable to achieve the objectives of a securing device with circuitry third layer <NUM> containing circuitry. Moreover, while adhesives are described, those of skill in the art would recognize that any method of securing the circuitry to another structure may be used. Further, while certain embodiments may be described as being water-resistant, it would be understood that it is not required.

Rather than using a unitary securing device, the securing device may be comprised of numerous sections or modules, as shown in <FIG>. More specifically, the securing device may be comprised of a plurality of modules <NUM> and <NUM>, each module containing a portion of the third layer <NUM> previously discussed. Each of these modules may be assembled in accordance with the manufacturing processes previously discussed, whereby the third layer <NUM> (e.g., containing circuitry) is within the second layer <NUM> (e.g., overmolded layer), and then a first layer <NUM> is applied. A module based securing device may be desired over a unitary securing device because each module may contain certain miscellaneous circuitry of the third layer for handling different functions. For example, one module may contain circuitry for GPS, while another module contains circuitry for monitoring certain health parameters of the wearer. Such a configuration may be useful when a wearer is planning on jogging. Conversely, when the wearer is planning on attending a social event, the wearer may elect to replace the health monitoring module with a module configured to emit audible, visual, or vibratory signals. Moreover, the display device and securing device may be configured to communicate to one another and reconfigure each other based on the specific module connected as part of the securing device. For example, when the GPS module is connected as part of the securing device, the display device may download a GPS related application or automatically start such application if the application is already on the display device.

Turning to <FIG> in more detail, a securing device <NUM> is comprised of modules <NUM>, <NUM> in disconnected form. The modules <NUM>, <NUM> are connected to the main body <NUM> of the securing device <NUM>, which is configured to receive a display device (not shown) via display device housing <NUM>. The modules <NUM> comprise the open ends of the securing device and include a connector <NUM> that connects one open end of the securing device to the other open end. While a generic clasp <NUM> is illustrated as the connector the securing device around the wearer's wrist, it would be understood that any of the previously discussed and described connectors could be used instead. Each of modules <NUM> and/or <NUM> may contain a portion of the third layer <NUM> which may include miscellaneous circuitry configured to handle a particular function or a plurality of functions.

Turning now to the zoomed in perspective view of a module <NUM>, the module <NUM> has an overmolded body <NUM>, a thinner flexible printed circuit portion <NUM> that has been overmolded, a receiving portion <NUM>, and a clip <NUM>. The receiving portion <NUM> receives the flexible printed circuit portion of another module so that electrical conductivity may be established across the connected modules. The clip <NUM> allows the received flexible printed circuit to be secured within the receiving portion <NUM>. While not shown here, a first layer <NUM> may also be applied to each portion of the modules, or a single first layer piece may be added to cover the entire assembled securing device. When fully assembled, the securing device and display device form a single wearable device <NUM>, as illustrated in <FIG>. As previously stated, however, each module may be replaced by another module containing circuitry that performs a function different than that of the module that was replaced.

Turning now to a more detailed discussion of the potential functionality of the third layer <NUM>, miscellaneous circuitry <NUM> may comprise GPS circuitry that may allow a user to see their precise location on the display device <NUM> or track particular fitness related parameters, including, but not limited to, distance traveled and duration of the travel. As shown in <FIG>, the GPS tracking circuitry <NUM> may be placed, for example, behind the display device <NUM>. The GPS tracking circuitry may comprise, a GPS chip that is passive or active. The GPS circuitry <NUM> may then communicate with the display device <NUM> via third layer <NUM> when the display device <NUM> is secured in the housing <NUM> of the securing device. Additionally, the securing device may include an audio input <NUM> for connecting it or display device <NUM> to a headset or other output device. In this way, a user of the connected securing and display devices may track particular fitness related parameters while listening to music or the radio.

With regard to the health monitoring functionality of the miscellaneous circuitry <NUM>, such functionality may allow a user to track certain health parameters, including but not limited to heart rate/pulse, skin resistance, skin temperature, blood pressure, and glucose levels. The miscellaneous circuitry <NUM> could be integrated into any portion of the third layer <NUM>, though it is understood that certain health sensors that exist currently may be more accurate if placed in direct or close contact with certain portions of a user's body. For example, turning to <FIG>, placement of a heart rate/pulse sensor <NUM> on or around the radial artery of the wearer (i.e., on the bottom of the wrist) may improve the accuracy of health sensor readings. A battery <NUM> may be integrated into the circuitry layer <NUM> to provide power to the sensor or other components of the securing device or display device <NUM>. Similarly, other portions of the user's body may be more suitable for direct contact with a health sensor for detecting skin resistance, which may help indicate psychological or physiological changes in the user. Such a measurement may allow the wearer to review his health status over the course of a day to determine which events caused him or her more stress or anxiety. The user may then make appropriate lifestyle changes to reduce that stress or anxiety, if possible. The wearable device <NUM> may include the use of a blood glucose monitor, as illustrated in <FIG>. The blood glucose monitor <NUM> may be coupled to the bottom of the housing <NUM>. The glucose monitor <NUM> may also be removable and interchangeable with other health monitoring components, such as the heart/pulse rate sensor <NUM> previously discussed.

With regard to the wireless receiving/transmitting functionality of the miscellaneous circuitry <NUM>, such circuitry may include, but is not limited to, RFID, BlueTooth, NFC, and Wi-Fi circuitry. The circuitry necessary for these technologies may be embedded into the third layer <NUM> of the securing device. With regard to RFID, Wi-Fi, and BlueTooth, placement of the circuitry may not be as important as the placement of the NFC circuitry, as RFID, Wi-Fi, and BlueTooth are capable of communicating at moderate distances. NFC, on the other hand, has a very limited range and the location of the NFC circuitry on the band may affect the comfort level of the wearer when attempting to use the securing device for purposes of establishing NFC with another device. A user may utilize NFC to establish communication with NFC enabled card readers to make payments. This may allow a wearer to access a digital wallet on the wearer's cellular telephone without having to actually pull the cellular telephone out to establish an NFC connection. For example, turning to <FIG>, the miscellaneous circuitry <NUM> may include an NFC chip <NUM>. This may allow the NFC chip to communicate with other portions of the third layer <NUM>, the display device <NUM>, and/or another device. RFID may act essentially as a "bar code," which may be used for numerous purposes, such as security clearance. For instance, a wearer of the securing device may gain access to his or her place of work by simply wearing a securing device containing the RFID circuitry. This negates the need for the wearer to pull out a clearance or access card every time he or she enters their place of work. Alternatively, the circuitry <NUM> may comprise BlueTooth circuitry to allow the user to couple the display device <NUM> to a cellular phone or other device. This may conserve space in the display device <NUM>. While NFC, RFID, and Bluetooth have been discussed herein, it would be understood by those having ordinary skill in the art that any wireless circuitry may be utilized within the securing device to allow for data to be transferred between wireless devices.

With regard to the illumination functionality of the miscellaneous circuitry <NUM>, such circuitry may include an LED flashlight capable of illuminating an area in a dark environment. For example, turning to <FIG>, the LED flashlight <NUM> may be coupled to the third layer <NUM>, but protrude through the first layer <NUM> and second layer <NUM>. The flashlight may utilize a battery <NUM> embedded into the third layer <NUM>. The battery <NUM> may be sufficient to provide <NUM> hours of life to the flashlight <NUM>, while the flashlight <NUM> may illuminate at <NUM>-<NUM> millicandelas ("MCD") and require a <NUM>. 5V battery.

With regard to the audible, visual, and/or vibratory indication functionality of the miscellaneous circuitry <NUM>, such circuitry may allow a user to more conveniently determine when a certain event has been triggered by the wearable device <NUM> and/or a corresponding network device (e.g., a smartphone). For example, a plurality of vibratory motors may be implemented in the securing device as the miscellaneous circuitry. When the user receives a cellular telephone call, the user may be notified by a vibration originating from a single vibratory motor in the third layer <NUM>. When the user receives a text message, the user may be notified by two vibrations originating from two separate vibratory motors spaced apart on the third layer <NUM>. In yet another example, a user may be notified that a particular person has called by receiving three vibrations originating from three vibratory motors spaced apart on the third layer <NUM>; while another person's call may be indicated by two vibrations originating from two vibratory motors spaced apart on the third layer <NUM>. Alternatively, rather than having a certain number of motors vibrate together to indicate a particular caller or type of notification, the motors may vibrate sequentially to create a circular vibration pattern in one direction for one particular caller or type of notification, and in another direction for a different particular caller or type of notification. Likewise, visual indicators, such as light emitting diodes (LEDs), may be utilized in a similar manner to convey the same information to the user. For example, turning to <FIG>, a plurality of LEDs <NUM> arranged in a matrix may be built into the third layer <NUM> and protrude through the first layer <NUM> and second layer <NUM> so that the LEDs may be visible to the user. When an alert or notification is received on the user's cellular telephone, the LEDs on the securing device may illuminate to indicate the identity of the caller or the contents of the message being received. As would be understood by those having ordinary skill in the art, the arrangement and sequencing of the speaker(s), vibratory motor(s), and visual indicator(s) may be arranged or configured in any way suitable to inform a user that particular event or notification has occurred. Alternatively, a speaker, vibratory motor, and/or visual indicator may be implemented in the securing device in lieu of the same circuitry that would normally be integrated into the display device <NUM>. This may conserve space in display device <NUM>. It would be understood that any functionality typically found in a display device <NUM> may be located instead in the securing device.

With regard to the additional memory functionality of the miscellaneous circuitry <NUM>, such circuitry may allow a user to store additional information. For example, given the general size constraints of wearable devices <NUM> such as smartwatches due to a lack of available space for memory, most smartwatches are significantly limited as to the number of applications they may store as compared to smartphones. However, by storing additional memory in the securing device, a user may store significantly more applications. Moreover, a larger number of pictures, video, and/or music could also be stored in the memory of the watch if the securing device includes additional memory. Alternatively, all of the memory of a display device <NUM> could be stored in the securing device, which would save space in the display device <NUM>.

With regard to the functionality for allowing users to create their own external circuitry on the securing device, the third layer <NUM> may be configured to communicate with a first layer <NUM> on the outer most surface of the securing device which includes a breadboard structure which comprises the miscellaneous circuitry <NUM>. For example, turning to <FIG>, an outer circuitry layer <NUM> in the form of, for example, a breadboard, may be electrically connected to a third layer <NUM>. The outer circuitry layer <NUM> may be on the outer surface of the first layer <NUM> and allow a user to add their own circuitry to improve the functionality to the securing device. For example, a user may implement their own custom LED arrangement and program the securing device or display device <NUM> to illuminate the LED arrangement as desired.

An additional feature may be a plurality of buttons disposed along the length of the securing device. For example, turning to <FIG>, buttons <NUM> may be incorporated into the securing device via the third layer <NUM>. The buttons <NUM> may be physical buttons that slightly protrude from the outer surface of the securing device, or a touch sensor that is completely integrated and embedded into the securing device. An embedded touch sensor may be particularly advantageous, as it may reduce the overall size of the securing device as compared to physical buttons that may protrude. The buttons or touch sensor may be disposed on a small portion of the securing device, or wrap around the entire length of the securing device. Buttons or a touch sensor may allow a user to more easily control the functionality of the securing device or display device <NUM>. For instance, a user may stop or play a song on a display device utilizing the buttons <NUM>. As yet another example, a user may answer a telephone call utilizing the buttons <NUM> when the display device or securing device is coupled to a cellular telephone physically or wirelessly.

With regard to the additional display integrated into the securing device, the securing device may include several displays spaced apart along the length of the securing device, or a single, long, flexible display disposed along a length of the securing device. The circuitry <NUM> of the securing device display <NUM> may be incorporated as part of the third layer <NUM>. The securing device display <NUM> may allow a user to set the appearance of the securing device based on a theme desired by the user. Moreover, as will be discussed in greater detail below, the display in the securing device may automatically program itself to visually correspond to the user interface theme of the display device <NUM>. Conversely, the display device <NUM> may automatically configure its user interface to visually correspond to the theme of the securing device.

With regard to the functionality of a microphone and/or speaker included in the third layer <NUM>, this functionality may be advantageous for several reasons. First, it may allow a wearer to accept cellular phone calls on the display device <NUM> itself by enabling the wearer to use the microphone and speaker to communicate with a caller. Second, the microphone may allow the user to utilize voice based commands to operate the display device <NUM>, the securing device, and/or a corresponding cellular phone wirelessly coupled to the securing device or display device <NUM>.

With regard to the functionality of charging a BlueTooth headset, the first and second layers <NUM> and <NUM> may be designed to hold or secure a tiny BlueTooth headset to the exterior of the securing device. For example, a very small latching device or protrusion (not shown) on the strap may be implemented that is capable of holding a tiny BlueTooth headset. The third layer <NUM> may be configured to charge a small ultracapacitor of the BlueTooth headset, the headset only activating when separated from the holding mechanism of the securing device.

Yet another potential feature is the capability to charge the securing device or display device via a free end of the securing device. For example, either free end of the securing device may comprise a universal serial bus ("USB") connector, which is electrically coupled to the third layer <NUM> to allow the user to establish a communication link between an external device, such as a laptop, and the securing device or display device <NUM> secured in the housing <NUM>. Alternatively, the USB connector may enable the securing device to be charged by another external device, such as a laptop.

The disclosed embodiments may also include circuitry that allows the securing device or display device to be inductively charged or passively charged using RF. More specifically, inductive charging uses an electromagnetic field emanated from, for example, a charging pad in order to charge the display device or securing device without connecting them to a charger via a physical interface connector. Similarly, passive charging via RF (e.g., PowerCast RF harvesting) may allow the display device and/or securing device to harvest the energy from radio frequency waves and provide additional charging capabilities.

An additional feature is the capability of the third layer <NUM> to automatically cause an event on the display device <NUM> when the display device <NUM> is secured to the housing <NUM> and electrically coupled to the third layer <NUM>. For instance, in reference to <FIG>, the user interface <NUM> of the display device <NUM> may automatically be configured to display a "Louis Vuitton" style theme when a securing device having a "Louis Vuitton" theme <NUM> is connected. Such a feature would allow a user to own various securing devices, wherein each securing device has different visual characteristics and automatically causes the user interface of the display device to match or correspond to the visual characteristics of the particular securing device being used. As yet another example, a user may utilize a securing device corresponding to a particular sports theme (e.g., Dallas Cowboys), which automatically causes the display device <NUM> user interface to visually correspond to that particular sports theme. In yet another example, a user may have a securing device designated as a "sports strap," which may be more durable and water resistant. When a user attaches such a securing device to the display device <NUM>, certain sports related applications (e.g., heart rate monitor, distance tracker) and/or themes are loaded by the display device <NUM>, or if such applications are not on the display device <NUM>, those applications may automatically be downloaded by the securing device and/or display device <NUM>. While numerous examples of such auto-configuration have been set forth, it should be understood that the disclosure is in no way intended to be limited to those particular embodiments. Indeed, the securing device itself could be configured to cause any program, setting, or action to occur when interfaced with the display device <NUM>, depending on the particular characteristics of the securing device. Conversely, the display device <NUM> may cause the securing device to change its configuration. For example, when the display device <NUM> is secured within the housing <NUM> and electrically couples to the third layer <NUM>, the display device <NUM> may cause LEDs on the securing device to illuminate to indicate a successful connection. In yet another example, if the third layer <NUM> comprises a securing device display, the securing device display may be set to display a theme corresponding to the theme of the user interface <NUM> of the display device <NUM> when the display device <NUM> and securing device are first electrically coupled.

Notably, any or all of these features may be implemented into the same securing device. For example, many of these features may be implemented utilizing a plurality of miscellaneous circuits <NUM>, each of which is configured to add additional functionality as discussed above. Moreover, rather than having a single third layer <NUM>, there may be multiple layers containing circuitry, each layer having its own miscellaneous circuitry <NUM>. For example, one third layer <NUM> may be reserved exclusively for battery circuitry and be disposed along the entire length of the band, while an additional third layer <NUM> may be reserved for a plurality of miscellaneous circuits <NUM>. It would be apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art that any number of layers of circuitry may be utilized, and that additional functionality could be implemented into the securing device. For example: (<NUM>) air bladders could be integrated into the securing device and inflate to help a user cope with motion sickness; (<NUM>) a gyroscope could be integrated into the securing device to allow the user to control the securing device or an display device using hand or arm gestures; (<NUM>) vibratory motors within the securing device could vibrate to indicate that a user is not on the correct GPS path; (<NUM>) health parameters of the wearer of the securing device could be detected/monitored and automatically be sent to emergency medical services utilizing the securing device and/or display device; (<NUM>) a breathalyzer could be implemented into the securing device; and/or (<NUM>) a drink tester sensor, which would analyze the composition of any drink and display the composition on the display device (see e.g., Vessyl drink analyzer).

Turning now to <FIG>, a flow chart illustrating the process of triggering an event based on the coupling of the display device <NUM> and securing device is disclosed. When the display device <NUM> is first secured within the housing <NUM>, the display device <NUM> and third layer <NUM> attempts to electronically pair at step <NUM>. After pairing is successful at step <NUM>, an event is triggered on the display device <NUM>, the securing device, or both at step <NUM>. The event may be, for example, the configuring of the appearance of the theme on the user interface of the display device <NUM> based on the theme of the securing device. Conversely, the event may be configuring of the appearance of a display on the securing device based on the theme of the display device <NUM>. At step <NUM> it is determined whether additional data is needed to perform the event. If no additional data is needed by either the securing or display device <NUM> to perform the event, the process continues to step <NUM> where the event is performed. However, if, for example, the event cannot be performed because of a lack of data, the data is either automatically obtained or the user is prompted to decide whether to obtain the data at step <NUM>. For example, if the event is the changing of the theme of the display device <NUM> user interface theme, but the theme is not present in the memory of the display device <NUM>, the theme may be automatically downloaded or the user may be prompted to download the theme at step <NUM>. Once the theme is downloaded, the process moves to step <NUM> where the event is performed. As yet another example, a user may begin pairing a fitness securing device and display device <NUM> at step <NUM>. If pairing is successful at step <NUM>, the securing device may attempt to trigger an event on the display device <NUM> at step <NUM> by automatically running certain fitness related apps. If the apps are already on the display device <NUM> at step <NUM>, the fitness related apps would automatically run at step <NUM>. However, if the fitness apps are not on the display device zoz at step <NUM>, the fitness apps would either automatically download or the user would be prompted to download the apps at step <NUM>. While only two examples are given here, it would be apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art that the securing device and/or display device <NUM> could be configured to trigger any event on the securing device and/or display device <NUM>. Moreover, the user could program the trigger settings using an interface on either the display device <NUM> or the securing device itself. Additionally, the user may cause any event to occur upon the pairing of a particular combination of securing device and display device. Also, the disclosed process may apply (as previously discussed) when a particular module <NUM> or modules of the securing device are connected to the display device or to another module. For example, the connection of a module <NUM> relating to GPS tracking may trigger an event or action to occur on the display device. Conversely, the connection of the GPS module <NUM> may cause an event or action to occur on the GPS module <NUM> itself. Similarly, the connection of multiple modules <NUM> as part of the securing device may cause an action to occur that would otherwise not occur when the multiple modules <NUM> are connected individually. For example, the connection of a module <NUM> relating to GPS tracking and health status monitoring may cause a jogging application to be downloaded and activated on the display device, whereas the connection of the GPS module <NUM> for health status monitoring alone would not cause that event or action to occur.

Claim 1:
A wearable device comprising:
a display device (<NUM>) comprising:
a display (<NUM>),
electrical circuitry, and
an interface coupled to the electrical circuitry;
a securing device (<NUM>) comprising:
electrical circuitry (<NUM>) integrated in at least part of the securing device (<NUM>), and
an interface coupled to the integrated electrical circuitry (<NUM>),
wherein the integrated electrical circuitry (<NUM>) comprises at least two physically distinct circuits, wherein one of the physically distinct circuits is configured to perform one distinct function and one of the other physically distinct circuits is configured to perform another distinct function, wherein the functions augment capabilities of the display device (<NUM>); and
a housing (<NUM>) arranged to physically connect the display device (<NUM>) to the securing device (<NUM>), the housing (<NUM>) being part of the securing device (<NUM>),
wherein when the display device (<NUM>) is physically connected to the securing device (<NUM>) via the housing (<NUM>), the interface of the display device (<NUM>) and the interface of the securing device (<NUM>) physically connect to establish electric connectivity between the integrated electrical circuitry (<NUM>) and the electrical circuitry of the display device (<NUM>) so that the securing device (<NUM>) can augment the capabilities of the display device (<NUM>); and
characterised in that the securing device (<NUM>) comprises a mating surface (<NUM>) allowing a charging connector to be coupled to a side of the securing device (<NUM>) opposite to the display device (<NUM>) to maintain electrical connectivity with the securing device (<NUM>) and/or display device (<NUM>).