Patent ID: 12205505

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

According to aspects of the present disclosure, an electronic device, method, and computer program product provide a flexible display that is configurable when being worn around a wrist of a user to increase a display width area. In one or more embodiments, the electronic device includes a strap elongated in a longitudinal length dimension relative to a lateral width dimension. The strap includes an outer layer presenting the flexible display and an inner support layer attached to an underside of the flexible display. The strap is configured to be positionable between an uncoiled position and a coiled position with lateral edges of first and second terminal ends of the strap juxtaposed in abutted alignment. In one or more embodiments, at least a middle portion of the inner support layer includes a series of nonorthogonal transverse channels that are parallel to each other and that resist twisting. The series of nonorthogonal transverse channels enable at least one portion of the strap to coil in a plane not aligned with the longitudinal length dimension of the strap in the uncoiled position. The plane of coiling of the strap enables juxtaposed abutting alignment between lateral edges of the first and the second terminal ends in the coiled position. While in the coiled position, the electronic device is configured to be worn on a wrist of a user. The electronic device includes at least one display engine that is communicatively coupled to the flexible display. In response to determining the coiled position of the strap with juxtaposed lateral edges of the first and the second terminal ends, the at least one display engine is configured to selectively render and present display content within a coil display area of up to an abutted length of the juxtaposed lateral edges by two straps width.

In the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, specific exemplary embodiments in which the various aspects of the disclosure may be practiced are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that logical, architectural, programmatic, mechanical, electrical, and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present disclosure is defined by the appended claims and equivalents thereof. Within the descriptions of the different views of the figures, similar elements are provided similar names and reference numerals as those of the previous figure(s). The specific numerals assigned to the elements are provided solely to aid in the description and are not meant to imply any limitations (structural or functional or otherwise) on the described embodiment. It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements illustrated in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements are exaggerated relative to other elements.

It is understood that the use of specific component, device and/or parameter names, such as those of the executing utility, logic, and/or firmware described herein, are for example only and not meant to imply any limitations on the described embodiments. The embodiments may thus be described with different nomenclature and/or terminology utilized to describe the components, devices, parameters, methods and/or functions herein, without limitation. References to any specific protocol or proprietary name in describing one or more elements, features or concepts of the embodiments are provided solely as examples of one implementation, and such references do not limit the extension of the claimed embodiments to embodiments in which different element, feature, protocol, or concept names are utilized. Thus, each term utilized herein is to be given its broadest interpretation given the context in which that term is utilized.

As further described below, implementation of the functional features of the disclosure described herein is provided within processing devices and/or structures and can involve use of a combination of hardware, firmware, as well as several software-level constructs (e.g., program code and/or program instructions and/or pseudo-code) that execute to provide a specific utility for the device or a specific functional logic. The presented figures illustrate both hardware components and software and/or logic components.

Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the hardware components and basic configurations depicted in the figures may vary. The illustrative components are not intended to be exhaustive, but rather are representative to highlight essential components that are utilized to implement aspects of the described embodiments. For example, other devices/components may be used in addition to or in place of the hardware and/or firmware depicted. The depicted example is not meant to imply architectural or other limitations with respect to the presently described embodiments and/or the general invention. The description of the illustrative embodiments can be read in conjunction with the accompanying figures. Embodiments incorporating teachings of the present disclosure are shown and described with respect to the figures presented herein.

FIG.1presents a simplified functional block diagram of electronic device101having flexible display102having one or more display area103and attached to inner support layer104to form strap106having first and second terminal ends105a-105bwith corresponding terminal edges107a-107b, and in which the features of the present disclosure are advantageously implemented.FIG.2Adepicts a front view of electronic device101in a flat position, presenting full-length display area103a. Each of the embodiments depicted herein may be positioned in the flat position. Given the narrow aspect ratio, digital content may be presented on only a portion of full-length display area103a. Strap106is bendable into a curved shape in which flexible display102may be activated to display visual content.FIG.2Bdepicts a three-dimensional view of strap106in a terminal edges abutted loop position that is configured to be worn on a wrist. With full-length display area103acurved into a band, not all of flexible display102is viewable from one vantage point and may not be necessarily used. In an example, box display area103bis presented by flexible display102as limited by a width of strap106and by a resulting aspect ratio to support user interfaces, images, or video content viewing from one vantage point. Similarly,FIG.2Cdepicts a three-dimensional view of strap106in an overlapped terminal ends loop position that is configured to be worn on a wrist. With full-length display area103acurved into a band, not all of flexible display102is viewable from one vantage point. In addition, inner terminal end105ais covered by outer terminal end105bof strap106. In an example, box display area103cis presented by flexible display102as limited by a width of strap106and a length of the overlapping inner and outer terminal ends105a-105b.FIG.2Dis a three-dimensional view of electronic device101having strap106coiled into a position with juxtaposed terminal ends105a-105bthat presents double width display area103d. InFIGS.2A-2E and4A-4C, strap106is capable of being flat, being looped, or being coiled. In one or more embodiments, inner support layer104constrains strap106constrains bending movement to only one of coiling or looping and not both. Straps that are configured to only coil or lay flat are depicted inFIGS.1and5A-5Gand described below. Straps that are configured to only loop or lay flat are depicted inFIGS.3,6A-6H and7A-7Fand described below. In addition to coiling and/or looping, embodiments according to the present disclosure may also provide a strap that is formed by a pair of corner pivoting half straps. When pivoted to a parallel juxtaposition in a flat position, the flexible display presents a half length by double width display area103e, as depicted inFIGS.4C,7A, and7Cand described below. For clarity, the present disclosure presents embodiments that coil in one direction and pivot in one direction. Features of the strap may be reversed or mirrored to coil and pivot in another direction.

Returning toFIG.1, flexible display102may essentially consist of, or include a visual output layer such as an organic light emitting diode (OLED) substrate that is bendable. First and second terminal ends105a-105bof support layer104of strap106having length “Li” may engage in a coiled position that is a side-by-side, juxtaposed position. While in the coiled position, corresponding first and second portions114a-114bof flexible display102are in a juxtaposed and adjacent position to provide coil display area103dthat is a double width (2W) size compared to the width of a single portion of the strap. Flexible display102provides full-length display area103athat is a length “L” and width “W” of strap106while in an uncoiled position in which first and second terminal ends105a-105bof support layer104are opposed to each other and corresponding first and second portions114a-114bof flexible display102are not in juxtaposed, adjacent alignment.

In one or more embodiments, electronic device101includes controller120that is communicatively coupled via communications subsystem122to communication device124as part of communication environment100for data communications with external nodes126. In one or more embodiments, electronic device101is implemented to incorporate functionality of communication device124. One or both of electronic device101and communication device124may incorporate additional optional features, such as wireless communication. Electronic device101and communication device124individually or in combination can be one of a host of different types of devices of device systems, including but not limited to, a mobile cellular phone, satellite phone, or smart phone, a laptop, a netbook, an ultra-book, a networked smartwatch or networked sports/exercise watch, and/or a tablet computing device or similar device that can include wireless communication functionality. As device(s) supporting wireless communication, electronic device101and communication device124individually or in combination can be utilized as, and also be referred to as, a system, device, subscriber unit, subscriber station, mobile station (MS), mobile, mobile device, remote station, remote terminal, user terminal, terminal, user agent, user device, a Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) phone, a wireless local loop (WLL) station, a personal digital assistant (PDA), computer workstation, a handheld device having wireless connection capability, a computing device, or other processing devices connected to a wireless modem.

With continued reference toFIG.1, in addition to controller120and communications subsystem122, electronic device101include input/output (I/O) subsystem128, data storage subsystem130, and memory subsystem132. Controller120may include a processor subsystem, which includes one or more central processing units (CPUs) such as a data processor. The processor subsystem can include one or more digital signal processors that can be integrated with data processor. Controller120manages, and in some instances directly controls, the various functions and/or operations of electronic device101. These functions and/or operations include, but are not limited to including, application data processing, communication with second communication devices, navigation tasks, image processing, and signal processing. In one or more alternate embodiments, electronic device101may use hardware component equivalents for application data processing and signal processing. For example, electronic device101may use special purpose hardware, dedicated processors, general purpose computers, microprocessor-based computers, micro-controllers, optical computers, analog computers, dedicated processors and/or dedicated hard-wired logic.

To enable management by controller120, system interlink134communicatively connects controller120with communications subsystem122, I/O subsystem128, data storage subsystem130, and memory subsystem132. System interlink134represents internal components that facilitate internal communication by way of one or more shared or dedicated internal communication links, such as internal serial or parallel buses. As utilized herein, the term “communicatively coupled” means that information signals are transmissible through various interconnections, including wired and/or wireless links, between the components. The interconnections between the components can be direct interconnections that include conductive transmission media or may be indirect interconnections that include one or more intermediate electrical components. Although certain direct interconnections (i.e., system interlink134) are illustrated inFIG.1, it is to be understood that more, fewer, or different interconnections may be present in other embodiments.

According to aspects of the present disclosure, controller120of electronic device101directs display driver(s)136to provide, via visual data connection138, user interface140including user interface controls142and display content144to flexible display102. Controller120may receive, via I/O subsystem128and touch data connection146, touch inputs148from user110that are detected by touch input layer150of flexible display102. Portable power supply152and battery154provide power to components of electronic device101. Electronic device101includes a coil retention mechanism, such as a permanent magnet156on first terminal end105aand an oppositely oriented permanent magnet or ferrous magnet target158in second terminal end105b. Middle portion160of inner support layer104facilitates alignment of coil retention mechanism by having a series of nonorthogonal transverse channels162. Nonorthogonal transverse channels162are parallel to each other and resist twisting while enabling at least one of the opposed terminal ends105a-105bof strap106to coil in a plane not aligned with the longitudinal length dimension of strap106in the uncoiled position. The plane of coiling of strap enables juxtaposed abutting alignment between lateral edges of first and the second terminal ends105a-105bin the coiled position. In the coiled position, electronic device101is configured to be worn on wrist108of user110. Controller120monitors position sensor164that is configured to detect the coiled position with lateral edges166a-166bof first and second terminal ends105a-105b, respectively, of strap106in juxtaposed abutted alignment.

Memory subsystem132stores program code168such as display control application170that, when executed by controller120, configures electronic device101to manage rendering and presenting display content144according to the coiled or uncoiled position of strap106. Memory subsystem132stores program code168such as communication application172that, when executed by controller120, configures electronic device101to communicate with communication device124and external node126. Memory subsystem132stores computer data174such as user interface controls142and display content144. Program code168may be software or firmware that, when executed by controller120, configures electronic device101to manage display configurations. In one or more embodiments, program code168may be integrated into a distinct chipset or hardware module as firmware that operates separately from executable program code. Portions of program code168may be incorporated into different hardware components that operate in a distributed or collaborative manner. Program code168may be stored on a computer readable storage device that when executed by a processor associated with electronic device101provides functionality of the present disclosure described herein. Implementation of program code168may use any known mechanism or process for doing so using integrated hardware and/or software, as known by those skilled in the art. Program code168may access, use, generate, modify, store, or communicate computer data174. Memory subsystem132may further include an operating system (OS), firmware interface, such as basic input/output system (BIOS) or Uniform Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI), and firmware, which may be considered as program code168.

FIG.3presents a simplified functional block diagram of electronic device301having flexible display302incorporated into a wrist-wearable strap306formed from first and second half straps303a-303bhaving lateral internal ends309a-309bthat are serially connected and configured to pivot to provide full-length display area103a(FIG.4A) and pivoted display area103e(FIG.4C). First and second half straps303a-303bhave respective terminal ends305a-305bwith terminal edges307a-307b.FIG.4Adepicts a top view of the example electronic device301ofFIG.3with first and second half straps303a-303bin series alignment to present full-length display area103aof up to the full strap length by one strap width. Lateral internal ends309a-309b, respectively, of first and second half straps303a-303bare pivoted into close proximity and alignment. Pivot sides401a-401b, respectively, of first and second half straps303a-303bare in series alignment. Midpoint mechanism405is positioned between adjacent lateral internal ends309a-309bof first and second half straps303a-303b. Midpoint mechanism405includes latch423between nonpivoting sides412a-412b, respectively, of first and second half straps303a-303bthat selectively engages first corresponding corners of pivot sides401a-401bof the adjacent lateral internal ends309a-309b. Midpoint mechanism405includes corner hinge425as a corner pivoting attachment between second corresponding corners of the adjacent lateral internal ends. The corner pivoting attachment enables pivoting between: (i) serial alignment of first and second half straps303a-303bto engage the first corresponding corners via latch423; and (ii) non-serial juxtaposed parallel alignment of first and second half straps303a-303b.

FIG.4Bdepicts a top view of electronic device301ofFIG.4Awith first and second half straps303a-303bpivoted to an intermediate position.FIG.4Cdepicts a top view of electronic device301ofFIG.4Awith of first and second half straps303a-303bwith pivot sides401a-401b, respectively, of first and second half straps303a-303bpivoting into a full juxtaposed parallel position. Lateral internal ends309a-309bare brought into serial alignment laterally. Flexible display302is configured into pivoted display area103eof one strap length by two strap width.

Returning toFIG.3, strap306is configurable to provide one of: (i) full-length display area103a(FIG.4A) of up to one strap length by one strap width; (ii) pivoted display area103e(FIG.4C) of up to one strap length by two strap width; and (iii) loop box display area103c(FIG.2C), similar to a smart watch, of an outer one of overlapping terminal ends of strap306in a looped position wearable on wrist308of user310. Midpoint mechanism405(depicted as “MM” inFIG.3) maintains first and second half straps303a-303bin serial alignment for full-length display area103a(FIG.4A), which serial alignment may be detected by serial position sensor312. Juxtaposed parallel position mechanism309(depicted as “JPPM” inFIG.3) maintains first and second half straps303a-303bin juxtaposed parallel alignment for pivoted display area103e(FIG.4C), which parallel alignment may be detected by lateral position sensor311. Looped mechanism313maintains first and second terminal ends305a-305b, respectively, of first and second half straps303a-303bin a looped position, either in ‘end edge to end edge’ contact or overlapping contact. Looped position sensor315detects the looped position of strap306. In one or more embodiments, components of the same name depicted inFIG.3are similar or identical to the components described above with regard toFIG.1.

In one or more embodiments, electronic device301may include functional components similar to electronic device101(FIG.1), with the components essentially all positioned in one of first and second half straps303a-303band communicatively coupled via power/communication interconnect317. In one or more embodiments, electronic device301includes duplication in each of first and second terminal ends305a-305bof some or all of the functional components communicatively coupled via power/communication interconnect317. Instead of coiled position sensor164(FIG.1), electronic device301includes lateral position sensor311and looped position sensor315.

First half strap303ais elongated in a longitudinal length dimension relative to a lateral width dimension. First half strap303aincludes an outer layer presenting first flexible display302aand first inner support layer304aattached to an underside of first flexible display302a. Second half strap303bis elongated in the longitudinal length dimension relative to the lateral width dimension and includes a second outer layer presenting second flexible display302band second inner support layer304battached to an underside of second flexible display302b.

In one or more embodiments, first terminal end305aof electronic device301includes controller320that is communicatively coupled via communications subsystem322to communication device324as part of communication environment300for data communications with external nodes326. In an example, controller320manages first flexible display302aand first touch input layer350aof first half strap303a. Controller320may directly manage second flexible display302band second touch input layer350bof second half strap303b. Alternatively, controller320may indirectly manage second flexible display302band second touch input layer350bvia power/communication interconnect317and controller320or display driver336of second half strap303b. In one or more embodiments, electronic device301is implemented to incorporate functionality of communication device324. One or both of electronic device301and communication device324may incorporate additional optional features, such as wireless communication.

With continued reference toFIG.3, in addition to controller320and communications subsystem322, at least first terminal end305aof electronic device301include input/output (I/O) subsystem328, data storage subsystem330, and memory subsystem332. To enable management by controller320, system interlink334communicatively connects controller320with communications subsystem322, I/O subsystem328, data storage subsystem330, and memory subsystem332. According to aspects of the present disclosure, controller320of electronic device301directs display driver(s)336to communicate, via visual data connection338, user interface340including user interface controls342and display content344to flexible display302. Controller320may receive, via I/O subsystem328and touch data connection346, touch inputs348from user310that are detected by touch input layers350a-350bof flexible display302. Portable power supply352and battery354in either or both of first and second terminal ends305a-305bfacilitate operation of electronic device301both while being worn and not worn.

Memory subsystem332stores program code368such as display control application370that, when executed by controller320, configures electronic device301to manage rendering and presenting display content344according to the full-length display area103a, loop box display area103c, and pivoted display area103ebased on positions of strap306. Memory subsystem332stores program code368such as communication application372that, when executed by controller320, configures electronic device301to communicate with communication device324and external node326. Memory subsystem332stores computer data374such as user interface controls342and display content344.

Memory subsystem332includes one or more computer readable storage devices that store program code368for execution by the processor subsystem to provide the functionality described herein. Program code368includes applications such as communication application372that generates or receives visual content for user interface340. Program code368may be software or firmware that, when executed by controller320, configures electronic device301to manage display configurations. Program code368may access, use, generate, modify, store, or communicate computer data374.

FIG.5Adepicts a top three-dimensional view of example electronic device301athat is an implementation of electronic device301(FIG.3) configured to be laid flat, to pivot, and to coil rather than loop. Wrist-wearable strap306aformed from first and second half straps303a-303bincludes support layers304a-304bwith respective middle portions360a-360bhaving nonorthogonal transverse channels562. Ribs519of nonorthogonal transverse channels562have a circular cross section that appears to be elliptical when viewed from the side. In one or more embodiments, the cross section may be other geometric shapes. In one or more embodiment, the size of the strap, nonorthogonal angle and direction of coiling may be different. Nonorthogonal transverse channels562guide bending movement of strap306afrom flat to a coil. In the flat, unpivoted position, first and second flexible displays302-302bthat form flexible display302provides full-length display area103a. Strap306aincludes first and second half straps303a-303babutted together at lateral internal ends309a-309bthat are engaged on nonpivoting sides412a-412b(right side) by latch423.FIG.5Bdepicts a bottom three-dimensional view of electronic device301aofFIG.5A. First and second half straps303a-303bare engaged on pivoting sides401a-401b(left side) of first and second half straps303a-303bof electronic device301aby corner hinge425(FIG.5F). With latch423released, first and second half straps303a-303bare configurable in a corner pivoting movement about corner hinge425(FIG.5F) that enables positioning first and second half straps303a-303bto provide pivoted display area103e(FIG.4C).FIG.5Cdepicts a top view of electronic device301awith strap306aformed from first and second half straps303a-303babutted together at lateral internal ends309a-309b. In the flat, unpivoted position, first and second flexible displays302-302bform flexible display302that provides full-length display area103a. Lateral internal ends309a-309bare engaged, respectively, on nonpivoting sides412a-412b(right side) of first and second half straps303a-303bby latch423(FIG.5A). Lateral internal ends309a-309bare engaged, respectively, on pivoting sides401a-401b(left side) of first and second half straps303a-303bby corner hinge425(FIG.5F).FIG.5Ddepicts a bottom view of support layers304a-304bof electronic device301aofFIG.5A.FIG.5Edepicts nonpivoting sides412a-412b(left side) of first and second half straps303a-303bof electronic device301aofFIG.5A. Lateral internal ends309a-309bof first and second half straps303a-303bare coupled together by latch423.FIG.5Fdepicts pivoting sides401a-401b(right side) of first and second half straps303a-303bcoupled by corner hinge425of electronic device301aofFIG.5A. Lateral internal ends309a-309bof first and second half straps303a-303bare coupled together by corner hinge425.FIG.5Gdepicts a three-dimensional view of electronic device301aofFIG.5Ain a partially coiled position. First and second terminal ends305a-305bare not fully aligned in juxtaposed adjacent position. Middle portions360a-360bof inner support layers304a-304bincludes the series of nonorthogonal transverse channels562that are parallel to each other and that resist twisting while enabling at least one portion of strap306ato coil in a plane not aligned with the longitudinal length dimension of strap306ain the uncoiled position.

FIG.6Adepicts a top three-dimensional view of example electronic device301bthat is an implementation of electronic device301(FIG.3) configured to be laid flat, to pivot, and to loop rather than coil. Wrist-wearable strap306bincludes support layers304a-304bwith respective middle portions360a-360beach having orthogonal transverse channels662. Ribs619of orthogonal transverse channels662have a circular drop cross section that guide bending movement of strap306bfrom flat to a loop. In one or more embodiments, the cross section may be other geometric shapes. In the flat, unpivoted position, first and second flexible displays302-302bthat form flexible display302provides full-length display area103a. Strap306aincludes first and second half straps303a-303babutted together at lateral internal ends309a-309bthat are engaged on nonpivoting sides412a-412b(right side) by latch423.FIG.6Bdepicts a bottom three-dimensional view of electronic device301aofFIG.6A. First and second half straps303a-303bare engaged on pivoting sides401a-401b(left side) of first and second half straps303a-303bof electronic device301aby corner hinge425. With latch423(FIG.6A) released, first and second half straps303a-303bare configurable in a corner pivoting movement about corner hinge425that enables positioning first and second half straps303a-303bto provide pivoted display area103e(FIG.4C).FIG.6Cdepicts a top view of electronic device301awith strap306aformed from first and second half straps303a-303babutted together at lateral internal ends309a-309b. In the flat, unpivoted position, first and second flexible displays302-302bform flexible display302that provides full-length display area103a. Lateral internal ends309a-309bare engaged, respectively, on nonpivoting sides412a-412b(right side) of first and second half straps303a-303bby latch423(FIG.6A). Lateral internal ends309a-309bare engaged, respectively, on pivoting sides401a-401b(left side) of first and second half straps303a-303bby corner hinge425(FIG.6B).FIG.6Ddepicts a bottom view of support layers304a-304bof electronic device301aofFIG.6A.FIG.6Edepicts nonpivoting sides412a-412b(left side) of first and second half straps303a-303bof electronic device301aofFIG.6A. Lateral internal ends309a-309bof first and second half straps303a-303bare coupled together by latch423.FIG.6Fdepicts pivoting sides401a-401b(right side) of first and second half straps303a-303bof electronic device301aofFIG.5A. Lateral internal ends309a-309bof first and second half straps303a-303bare coupled together by corner hinge425.FIG.6Gdepicts a three-dimensional view of electronic device301bofFIG.6Ain a looped position. First terminal end305aoverlaps second terminal end305band presents box display area103c.FIG.6Hdepicts a right side of the electronic device ofFIG.6Ain the looped position.

FIG.7Adepicts a top three-dimensional view of electronic device301bofFIG.6Awith first and second half straps303a-303bof strap306bpivoted to a juxtaposed parallel position to present pivoted display area103eof one-half strap length by two strap width. Although having different nonorthogonal transverse channels562, electronic device301a(FIGS.5A-5F) may similarly pivot to the juxtaposed parallel position as depicted for electronic device301b(FIG.7A).FIG.7Bdepicts a bottom three-dimensional view of electronic device301bofFIG.7Ain the full-length juxtaposed parallel position.FIG.7Cdepicts a top view of the electronic device ofFIG.7A.FIG.7Ddepicts a bottom view of electronic device301bofFIG.7Ain the full-length juxtaposed parallel position.FIG.7Edepicts left side of electronic device301bofFIG.7Ain the full-length juxtaposed parallel position.FIG.7Fdepicts right side of electronic device301bofFIG.7Ain the full-length juxtaposed parallel position.

FIG.8is a flow diagram of method800of configuring a flexible display to render and present display content in an increased display width area when the flexible display is in the coiled position with juxtaposed terminal end.FIG.9is a flow diagram of method900that augments the method ofFIG.8by facilitating user manual selection of a full-length display area or a coil display area. The descriptions of method800(FIG.8) and method900(FIG.9) are provided with general reference to the specific components illustrated within the precedingFIGS.1,2A-2E,3,4A-4C,5A-5G,6A-6H,7A-7Fand especially embodiments configured to coil. Specific components referenced in method800(FIG.8) and method900(FIG.9) may be identical or similar to components of the same name used in describing precedingFIGS.1,2A-2E,3,4A-4C,5A-5G,6A-6H,7A-7F. In one or more embodiments, controller120(FIG.1) configures electronic device101(FIG.1), electronic device301(FIG.3), or electronic device301a(FIG.7A) to provide the described functionality of method800(FIG.8) and method900(FIG.9).

With reference toFIG.8, method800includes method800includes monitoring a coiled position sensor that is configured to detect a coiled position of an electronic device implemented as a strap that may be worn on a wrist (block802). Method800includes receiving display content (e.g., user interface controls, image content, and video content) (block804). Method800includes determining whether the strap is in the coiled position based on the coiled position sensor (decision block806). In response to determining that the strap is in the coiled position, method800includes determining that an increased width coil display area is available and selected at the first and second terminal ends of the strap (block808). Method800includes selectively rendering display content for the coil display area by scaling the display content to fit within the coil display area (block810). Method800includes identifying a first portion of scaled display content that corresponds to the first terminal end of the strap and a second portion of the scaled display content that corresponds to the second terminal end of the strap (block812). Method800includes separately rendering the first and the second portions of the scaled display content (block814). Method800includes communicating rendered first and second portions of the scaled display content, respectively, to the at least one display engine for presenting, respectively, via the first and the second terminal ends, respectively (block816). Method800includes presenting rendered display content within a coil display area of up to an abutted length of the juxtaposed lateral edges by two straps width (block818). Then method800ends. In response to determining that the strap is not in the coiled position in decision block806, method800includes determining that the strap is in an uncoiled position (block820). Method800includes selectively rendering and presenting display content within at least a full-length display area of up to one strap length by one strap width (block822). Then method800ends.

In one or more embodiments, the strap is elongated in a longitudinal length dimension relative to a lateral width dimension and includes an outer layer presenting a flexible display and an inner support layer attached to an underside of the flexible display. The strap is configured to be positionable between an uncoiled position and the coiled position with lateral edges of first and second terminal ends of the strap juxtaposed in abutted alignment. In one or more embodiments, the coiled position sensor is stabilized in the coiled position by a coil retention mechanism that engages the juxtaposed lateral edges of first and second terminal ends of the strap while the strap is in the coiled position. In one or more embodiments, the coil retention mechanism includes at least one permanent magnet component positioned along a lateral edge of the first terminal end that juxtaposes the second terminal end while in the coiled position. The coiled retention mechanism includes at least one magnet target positioned along a corresponding lateral edge of the second terminal end that juxtaposes the first terminal end while in the coiled position. The at least one permanent magnet component and the at least one magnetic target are aligned to respectively attract while the first and the second straps are in juxtaposed alignment.

In one or more embodiments, the strap includes additional or alternative features to the retention mechanism that facilitate alignment and retention of the strap in the coiled position, enabling accurate sensing of the coiled position by the coiled position sensor. In an example, at least a middle portion of the inner support layer includes a series of nonorthogonal transverse channels that are parallel to each other and that resist twisting while enabling at least one portion of the strap to coil in a plane not aligned with the longitudinal length dimension of the strap in the uncoiled position. The plane of coiling of the strap enables juxtaposed abutting alignment between lateral edges of the first and the second terminal ends in the coiled position. When coiled, the strap may be worn on a wrist of a user.

With reference toFIG.9, in one or more embodiments, method900includes presenting a user interface control on a flexible display of an electronic device (block902). Method900includes monitoring a touch input layer of the flexible display (block904). Method900includes determining whether an indication is received from the user interface indicating that the strap is in the coiled position (decision block906). In response to receiving an indication via the flexible display that the strap is in the coiled position, method900includes determining that an increased width coil display area is available and selected at the first and second terminal ends of the strap (block908). Method900includes presenting rendered display content within a coil display area of up to an abutted length of the juxtaposed lateral edges by two straps width (block910). Then method900ends. In response to not receiving an indication via the flexible display that the strap is in the coiled position in decision block906, method900includes determining that the strap is in an uncoiled position (block912). Method900includes selectively rendering and presenting display content within at least a full-length display area of up to one strap length by one strap width (block914). Then method900ends.

FIGS.10A-10B(collectively “FIG.10”) are a flow diagram presenting a method of configuring a flexible display when not being worn from the full-length display area to a pivoted display area.FIG.11is a flow diagram presenting a method that augments the method ofFIG.10by facilitating user manual selection of a full-length display area or pivoted display area. The descriptions of method1000(FIG.10) and method1100(FIG.11) are provided with general reference to the specific components illustrated within the precedingFIGS.1,3,4A-4C,5A-5G,6A-6H,7A-7F. Specific components referenced in method1000(FIG.10) and method1100(FIG.11) may be identical or similar to components of the same name used in describing precedingFIGS.1,3,4A-4C,5A-5G,6A-6H,7A-7F. In one or more embodiments, controller120(FIG.1) configures electronic device101(FIG.1) or electronic device301(FIG.3) to provide the described functionality of method1000(FIG.10) and method1100(FIG.11).

With reference toFIG.10A, in one or more embodiments, method1000includes receiving display content (e.g., user interface controls, image content, and video content) (block1002). Method1000includes monitoring a lateral position sensor that is configured to detect a juxtaposed parallel position of first and second terminal ends of a first and second half straps of a strap of an electronic device in a pivoted position (block1004). With reference toFIG.11, method1100includes presenting a user interface control on the flexible display of the electronic device (block1102). Method1100includes determining whether an indication is received from the user interface indicating that the first half strap and the second half strap are pivoted to the juxtaposed parallel position (i.e., not in the serial flat or looped position) (decision block1104). In response to receiving an indication via the flexible display that the strap is in the juxtaposed parallel position, method1100includes presenting rendered display content within a pivoted display area of up to one strap length by two straps width (block1106). Then method1100ends. In response to not receiving an indication via the flexible display that the strap is in the juxtaposed parallel position in decision block1104, method1100includes determining whether an indication is received via the flexible display that the strap is in the looped position (decision block1108). In response to determining that the strap is in the looped position based on receiving the indication, method1100includes determining that a box display area is provided by an outer one of the overlapping first and the second terminal ends (block1110). Method1100includes selectively rendering and presenting display content within the box display area of the outer one of the overlapping first and the second terminal ends (block1112). Then method1100ends. In response to determining that an indication is not received via the flexible display that the strap is in the looped position in decision block1108, method1100includes determining that the strap is in a series (unpivoted) flat position that provides the full-length display area for presenting display content (block1114). Method1100includes selectively rendering and presenting display content within the full-length display area of up to one strap length by one strap width (block1116). Then method1100ends.

Aspects of the present innovation are described above with reference to flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems) and computer program products according to embodiments of the innovation. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, embodiments of the present innovation may be embodied as a system, device, and/or method. Accordingly, embodiments of the present innovation may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment or an embodiment combining software and hardware embodiments that may all generally be referred to herein as a “circuit,” “module” or “system.”

While the innovation has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made, and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the innovation. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular system, device, or component thereof to the teachings of the innovation without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the innovation not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed for carrying out this innovation, but that the innovation will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, the use of the terms first, second, etc. do not denote any order or importance, but rather the terms first, second, etc. are used to distinguish one element from another.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the innovation. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprise” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of all means or step plus function elements in the claims below are intended to include any structure, material, or act for performing the function in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. The description of the present innovation has been presented for purposes of illustration and description but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the innovation in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the innovation. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the innovation and the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the innovation for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.