PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-11253033-B2
Application Number: US-201916671008-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Clasp mechanisms for wrist-worn devices

Abstract:
A band configured to couple a device to a body of a user is disclosed. The band includes a first link comprising a recess defined in a body of the first link, a leaf spring positioned in the recess and comprising a tongue portion protruding from the leaf spring, and a second link coupled to the first link and comprising first and second lip portions extending away from a body of the second link and separated from one another by a gap. The tongue portion is positioned in the gap between the first and second lip portions, and the first and second lip portions engage the leaf spring to retain the second link to the first link.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A clasp assembly configured to be coupled to a band of a wearable device, comprising:
 a clasp body; 
 a clasp cover; and 
 a flexible connecting arm pivotally coupled to the clasp body at a first end of the flexible connecting arm and pivotally coupled to the clasp cover at a second end of the flexible connecting arm, wherein the clasp assembly is configured to transition between:
 a closed configuration with the clasp body engaged with the clasp cover and with the flexible connecting arm in a deformed shape to provide a biasing force urging the clasp body and the clasp cover away from each other; and 
 an open configuration with the clasp body disengaged from the clasp cover and with the flexible connecting arm in an undeformed shape. 
 
 
     
     
       2. The clasp assembly of  claim 1 , wherein the flexible connecting arm extends along a longitudinal axis and is configured to deform by bending away from the longitudinal axis by at least +/−10 degrees without plastically deforming the flexible connecting arm. 
     
     
       3. The clasp assembly of  claim 1 , wherein the flexible connecting arm extends along a longitudinal axis and is configured to deform by twisting about the longitudinal axis by at least +/−10 degrees without plastically deforming the flexible connecting arm. 
     
     
       4. The clasp assembly of  claim 1 , wherein the flexible connecting arm comprises a nickel-titanium metal alloy or a beta-titanium alloy. 
     
     
       5. The clasp assembly of  claim 1 , wherein:
 the clasp assembly is coupled to the band; 
 the band comprises an engagement member configured to be disposed within a channel of the wearable device housing and configured to be slid out of the channel from an end of the channel; and 
 the flexible connecting arm is configured to be deformed from the undeformed shape as a result of the engagement member being slid out of the channel. 
 
     
     
       6. The clasp assembly of  claim 1 , wherein, in the closed configuration, the flexible connecting arm is within a recess of the clasp body. 
     
     
       7. The clasp assembly of  claim 1 , wherein:
 the clasp cover is a first clasp cover; 
 the flexible connecting arm is a first flexible connecting arm pivotally coupled to a first side of the clasp body; and 
 the clasp assembly further comprises:
 a second clasp cover; and 
 a second flexible connecting arm pivotally coupled to a second side of the clasp body at a first end of the second flexible connecting arm and pivotally coupled to the second clasp cover at a second end of the second flexible connecting arm. 
 
 
     
     
       8. The clasp assembly of  claim 1 , wherein the clasp assembly is retained in the closed configuration by a latch and a retaining structure, and the biasing force from the flexible connecting arm biases the latch against the retaining structure. 
     
     
       9. A clasp assembly configured to be coupled to a band of a wearable device, comprising:
 a clasp body; 
 a clasp cover; and 
 a flexible connecting arm comprising:
 a flexible member; 
 a first lug on a first end of the flexible member and pivotally coupled to the clasp body; and 
 a second lug on a second end of the flexible member and pivotally coupled to the clasp cover, wherein the flexible member is configured to deform while interacting with the clasp body and impart a biasing force between the clasp body and the clasp cover while the clasp assembly is in a closed configuration. 
 
 
     
     
       10. The clasp assembly of  claim 9 , wherein the flexible member has a central portion that is narrower than end portions of the flexible member. 
     
     
       11. The clasp assembly of  claim 9 , wherein, in the closed configuration, the flexible connecting arm is within a recess of the clasp body. 
     
     
       12. The clasp assembly of  claim 9 , wherein the clasp assembly is retained in the closed configuration by a latch and a retaining structure, and the biasing force from the flexible connecting arm biases the latch against the retaining structure. 
     
     
       13. The clasp assembly of  claim 9 , wherein the flexible connecting arm extends along a longitudinal axis and is configured to deform by bending away from the longitudinal axis by at least +/−10 degrees without plastically deforming the flexible connecting arm. 
     
     
       14. The clasp assembly of  claim 9 , wherein the flexible connecting arm extends along a longitudinal axis and is configured to deform by twisting about the longitudinal axis by at least +/−10 degrees without plastically deforming the flexible connecting arm. 
     
     
       15. The clasp assembly of  claim 9 , wherein:
 the clasp assembly is coupled to the band; 
 the band comprises an engagement member configured to be disposed within a channel of the wearable device housing and configured to be slid out of the channel from an end of the channel; and 
 the flexible connecting arm is configured to be deformed as a result of the engagement member being slid out of the channel. 
 
     
     
       16. A clasp assembly configured to be coupled to a band of a wearable device, comprising:
 a clasp body; 
 a clasp cover; and 
 a flexible connecting arm pivotally coupled to the clasp body at a first end of the flexible connecting arm and pivotally coupled to the clasp cover at a second end of the flexible connecting arm, wherein, while the clasp assembly is in a closed configuration, the flexible connecting arm abuts the clasp body in a deformed shape to provide a biasing force between the clasp body and the clasp cover. 
 
     
     
       17. The clasp assembly of  claim 16 , wherein, in the closed configuration, the flexible connecting arm is within a recess of the clasp body. 
     
     
       18. The clasp assembly of  claim 16 , wherein the clasp assembly is retained in the closed configuration by a latch and a retaining structure, and the biasing force from the flexible connecting arm biases the latch against the retaining structure. 
     
     
       19. The clasp assembly of  claim 16 , wherein the flexible connecting arm extends along a longitudinal axis and is configured to deform by bending away from the longitudinal axis by at least +/−10 degrees without plastically deforming the flexible connecting arm. 
     
     
       20. The clasp assembly of  claim 16 , wherein the flexible connecting arm extends along a longitudinal axis and is configured to deform by twisting about the longitudinal axis by at least +/−10 degrees without plastically deforming the flexible connecting arm.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a division of U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 15/256,842, filed Sep. 6, 2016 and entitled “Clasp Mechanisms for Wrist-Worn Devices,” which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/233,463, filed Sep. 28, 2015 and entitled “Clasp Mechanisms for Wrist-Worn Devices,” the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     This disclosure relates generally to electronic devices, and more particularly to releasable links and clasps for bands that are used to secure electronic devices to persons or objects. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Conventional wearable devices, such as wristwatches, include bands that couple the device to a user. For example, a conventional wristwatch typically includes a band that attaches the watch to a user&#39;s wrist. Some bands are composed of multiple articulating links, such that the band can flex to match the shape and contours of a user&#39;s wrist. Such bands are sometimes known as “bracelet bands.” In order for such bands to fit properly, they often need to be resized by adding or removing individual links from the band. 
     SUMMARY 
     A band configured to couple a device to a body of a user may include a first link comprising a first recess defined by a first wall and a second link coupled to the first link and comprising a second recess defined by a second wall. The first and second walls face opposite directions and are separated from one another by a space. The band also includes a spring member disposed in the space and comprising a first face configured to engage the first wall and a second face configured to partially engage the second wall by partially overlapping the second wall. 
     The first link may be pivotally coupled to a third link to form a first link assembly. The second link may be pivotally coupled to a fourth link to form a second link assembly. The first link assembly may be coupled to the second link assembly via the coupling between the first link and the second link. 
     When the first link or the second link is subjected to a decoupling force, a first portion of the second face may contact a portion of the second wall, and a second portion of the second face may not contact the second wall. When the first link or the second link is subjected to the decoupling force, the first face may be forced against the first wall such that the first portion of the first face contacts the first wall to inhibit decoupling of the first link from the second link. 
     The spring member may be retained to the second link. The first link may include a channel formed therein, the second link may include a slide member extending from a body of the second link, and the slide member may be received in the channel to substantially prevent rotation of the first link relative to the second link. 
     The first link may also include a button member configured to deflect the spring member into the second recess such that the first face of the spring member disengages from the first wall, thereby allowing the first link to be decoupled from the second link. 
     A band configured to couple a device to a body of a user may include a first link comprising a recess defined in a body of the first link, a leaf spring positioned in the recess and comprising a tongue portion protruding from the leaf spring, and a second link coupled to the first link and comprising first and second lip portions extending away from a body of the second link and separated from one another by a gap. The tongue portion may be positioned in the gap between the first and second lip portions, and the first and second lip portions may engage the leaf spring to retain the second link to the first link. 
     The band may comprise a plurality of link assemblies forming two straps of a wrist band, each strap coupled to an electronic device, and a clasp mechanism releasably coupling the two straps together. The first link may be part of a first link assembly of the plurality of link assemblies and the second link may be part of a second link assembly of the plurality of link assemblies. The first and second link may be removable from one another with a tool, and at least the first link and the second link may be formed of a metallic material. 
     A first portion of the leaf spring may be positioned within the recess, a second portion of the leaf spring may be disposed outside of the recess, and the tongue portion may extend from the second portion of the leaf spring. The tongue portion may be angled toward the body of the first link. The tongue portion may extend substantially perpendicularly to a longitudinal axis of the leaf spring. The tongue portion may be configured such that a force applied to the tongue portion in a direction towards the body of the first link causes the leaf spring to disengage from the first and second lip portions. 
     The band may also include a third link pivotally coupled to the first link and comprising a channel formed therein, wherein the channel is aligned with the tongue portion of the leaf spring to allow access to the tongue portion by a tool. 
     A clasp assembly configured to be coupled to a band of a wearable device may include a clasp body, a clasp cover, and a flexible connecting arm pivotally coupled to the clasp body at a first end of the flexible connecting arm and pivotally coupled to the clasp cover at a second end of the flexible connecting arm. The flexible connecting arm may be configured to deform from an undeformed shape during removal of the band from a device housing, and return to the undeformed shape after removal of the band from the device housing. 
     The flexible connecting arm may extend along a longitudinal axis and may be configured to bend away from the longitudinal axis by at least +/−10 degrees without plastically deforming the flexible connecting arm. The flexible connecting arm may be configured to twist about the longitudinal axis by at least +/−10 degrees without plastically deforming the flexible connecting arm. The flexible connecting arm may include a nickel-titanium metal alloy or a beta-titanium alloy. 
     The clasp assembly may be coupled to a band that includes an engagement member configured to be disposed within a channel of the device housing and configured to be slid out of the channel from an end of the channel. The flexible connecting arm may be configured to be deformed from the undeformed shape as a result of the engagement member being slid out of the channel. 
     The clasp assembly may be movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the open configuration, the flexible connecting arm may be in the undeformed state. In the closed configuration, the flexible connecting arm may be deformed, thereby imparting a biasing force between the clasp body and the clasp cover. In the closed configuration, the clasp cover may be retained to the clasp body. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which: 
         FIG. 1  shows a perspective view of a wearable electronic device. 
         FIGS. 2A-2B  show plan views of a band for a wearable electronic device. 
         FIG. 3  shows a perspective view of a releasable link assembly. 
         FIG. 4  shows a partial cross-sectional view of the releasable link assembly of  FIG. 3  viewed along line  4 - 4  in  FIG. 3 . 
         FIGS. 5A-5B  show expanded partial cross-sectional views of the releasable link assembly of  FIG. 3  viewed along line  4 - 4  in  FIG. 3 . 
         FIGS. 6A-6B  show perspective views of a link for a releasable link assembly. 
         FIGS. 7A-7C  show cross-sectional views of the link of  FIGS. 6A-6B  viewed along line  7 - 7  in  FIG. 6B . 
         FIG. 8  shows a cross-sectional view of another link for a releasable link assembly viewed along line  7 - 7  in  FIG. 6B . 
         FIG. 9  shows a perspective view of another releasable link assembly. 
         FIG. 10A  shows a partial cross-sectional view of the releasable link assembly of  FIG. 9  viewed along line  10 A- 10 A in  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 10B  shows a partial cross-sectional view of the releasable link assembly of  FIG. 9  viewed along line  10 B- 10 B in  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 11  shows a perspective view of another wearable electronic device. 
         FIG. 12  shows a perspective view of a link assembly. 
         FIG. 13  shows a partial cross-sectional view of the link assembly of  FIG. 12  viewed along line  13 - 13  in  FIG. 12 . 
         FIGS. 14A-14B  show perspective views of yet another wearable electronic device. 
         FIG. 15  shows a perspective view of the wearable electronic device of  FIG. 14A . 
         FIG. 16  shows a perspective view of a clasp. 
         FIG. 17  shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the clasp of  FIG. 16  viewed along line  17 - 17  in  FIG. 16 . 
         FIGS. 18A-18B  show partial cross-sectional views of the clasp of  FIG. 16  viewed along line  18 - 18  in  FIG. 16 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following descriptions are not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims. 
     Wearable devices, such as watches, are typically secured to a user or to an object with a band. Some bands are composed of multiple, pivotally connected links that allow the band to flex to conform to a wearer&#39;s wrist. Discussed herein are articulable, interlocking watch band links and/or link assemblies that include quick-release mechanisms that allow users to quickly and easily add and remove links to a watch band. 
     In some cases, all of the links of a watch band may be quick-release style links. In other cases, a watch band may include some quick-release links, and some permanently or semi-permanently coupled links. Because quick-release functionality is not required for the latter type of link, more permanent, simpler, and potentially stronger mechanisms may be used to couple them together. Additionally, such mechanisms may be used to permanently or semi-permanently couple links that cannot be coupled using welding, bonding, or the like. Accordingly, discussed herein are articulable watch band links and/or link assemblies that include permanent or semi-permanent joining mechanisms. 
     Watch bands are commonly removable from a watch housing to facilitate repair, replacement, or swapping of bands. While watch bands may include clasps that allow the band to open and close to facilitate application and removal of the device, the rigidity of such clasps may make it difficult to attach or detach a watch band and a watch housing without applying undue stress to the clasp or the links of the band. For example, removal of a band from a watch housing may require the band to be twisted in a direction that the band and the clasp are not flexible. Accordingly, described herein are clasp mechanisms that may provide compliance in a direction that facilitates removal and/or application of the band to a watch housing such that the band or clasp itself is not damaged. 
     Various embodiments are described herein with respect to the figures. In particular,  FIGS. 1-11  relate to releasable links and link assemblies, including embodiments where the releasable links are configured to slidably engage with one another.  FIGS. 12-13  relate to links and link assemblies that are permanently or semi-permanently joined with non-pivoting mechanisms.  FIGS. 14-18B  relate to compliant clasps. Each of the figures is discussed herein. 
     Link Assemblies 
       FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a wearable device  100  (also referred to as “device  100 ”). The device  100  may be any appropriate wearable device, including an electrical or mechanical wristwatch, an electronic computing device, a health monitoring device, a timekeeping device, a stopwatch, etc. 
     The device  100  may include a housing  102  that forms an outer surface or partial outer surface and protective case for the internal components of the wearable electronic device  100 . The housing  102  may also include mounting features formed on opposite ends to connect a wearable band  104  (also referred to as “band  104 ”) to the housing  102 . Examples of such mounting features are shown and described with reference to  FIGS. 14A-15 . 
     The band  104  may be composed of or otherwise include multiple links or link assemblies that are coupled to one another to form all or a portion of the band  104 , which may be a wrist band for the device  100 . The links may include releasable link assemblies  110  and non-releasable link assemblies  112 . The releasable link assemblies  110  may be included in the band  104  to allow the user to quickly and easily resize the band  104  to fit their wrist. 
     The band  104  may also include a clasp  106  that opens and closes to facilitate application and removal of the device  100  to and from a user. The band  104  may be used to secure the device  100  to a user, or to any other object capable of receiving the device  100 . In a non-limiting example where the device  100  is a watch, the band  104  may secure the watch to a user&#39;s wrist. In other non-limiting examples, the band  104  may secure the device  100  to or within another part of a user&#39;s body. 
       FIGS. 2A and 2B  are plan views of an interior portion of the band  104  (e.g., the portion that contacts a wearer&#39;s skin), illustrating the band  104  when all of the releasable link assemblies  110  are coupled together ( FIG. 2A ), and when one releasable link assembly  110 - 1  is decoupled from another releasable link assembly  110 - 2  ( FIG. 2B ). 
       FIG. 3  is a perspective view of the releasable link assembly  110 - 1  and a complementary releasable link assembly  110 - 2 . Each releasable link assembly  110  may comprise one or more links coupled together to form the link assembly  110 . With reference to  FIG. 3 , the releasable link assemblies  110  each include a latching link  302  and a receptacle link  304 . For example, in the releasable link assembly  110 - 1 , the latching link  302 - 1  is pivotally coupled to the receptacle link  304 - 1 . 
     As will be apparent from the figures and description, the latching link of a given releasable link assembly is configured to releasably couple to the receptacle link of another releasable link assembly. Similarly, the receptacle link of the given releasable link assembly is configured to releasably couple to the latching link of yet another releasable link assembly. In this way, a band (or a portion of a band) can be formed by coupling multiple identical releasable link assemblies to one another. Any of the releasable link assemblies can therefore be removed, or new ones added, in order to customize the size of the band. 
     As shown in  FIG. 3 , a portion of the latching link  302 - 1  is configured to at least partially overlap a portion of a body of the receptacle link  304 - 2  and to be retained to the body of the receptacle link  304 - 2 . For example, the latching link  302 - 1  includes a first engagement structure  308 - 1  (e.g., a slide member, a tab, or another feature). The first engagement structure  308 - 1  is configured to slidably engage with a second engagement structure  310 - 2  on the receptacle link  304 - 2 . As shown, the first engagement structure  308 - 1  is a slide member that is configured to be received into the second engagement structure  310 - 2  (a channel) of the receptacle link  304 - 2 . In some embodiments, the locations of the slide member and the channel are swapped, so that the slide member is disposed on the receptacle link, and the channel is disposed on the latching link. The first and second engagement structures align the latching link with the receptacle link so that the spring member, described below, retains the latching and receptacle links to one another. Further, the slide member and the channel define a sliding axis between the releasable link assemblies, and also provide the physical support that retains the links together in a direction perpendicular to the sliding axis. The engagement between the first engagement structure  308 - 1  (e.g., a slide) and the second engagement structure  310 - 2  (e.g., a channel) may also substantially prevent rotation of the latching link  302 - 1  relative to the receptacle link  304 - 2 . That is, the first and second engagement structures  308 - 1 ,  310 - 2  may form a substantially non-pivoting joint or coupling between the latching link  302 - 1  and the receptacle link  304 - 2 . 
     A spring member  314  may be disposed in a space between the latching link  302 - 1  and the receptacle link  304 - 2  and may engage with portions of the latching and receptacle links to retain the links together and/or to inhibit unintentional decoupling of the links. For example, when the latching link  302 - 1  and the receptacle link  304 - 2  are coupled together, the spring member  314  may extend into a recess in the latching link  302 - 1  and also into a recess in the receptacle link  304 - 2  such that the spring member  314  interferes with the free movement of the latching and receptacle links  304 - 2 ,  302 - 1 . The spring member  314  therefore inhibits or prevents decoupling or disengaging of the links, until and unless the spring member  314  is disengaged from one of the two recesses. 
     The spring member  314  may be attached to either a latching link  302  or a receptacle link  304 . As shown in  FIG. 3 , the spring member  314  is attached to the receptacle link  304 - 2 , and is disposed above and/or at least partially in a recess  402  ( FIG. 4 ) in a surface of the receptacle link  304 - 2 . When the latching link  302 - 1  is attached to the receptacle link  304 - 2 , a protrusion  316  of the spring member  314  engages with the latching link  302 - 1  to retain the latching link  302 - 1  to the receptacle link  304 - 2 , as described with respect to  FIGS. 4-5B . 
     The latching link  302 - 1  includes a button member  312 - 1  that is configured to disengage the protrusion  316  from the latching link  302 - 1  when depressed, as described herein. By disengaging the protrusion  316  from the latching link  302 - 1 , the latching link  302 - 1  can be decoupled from the receptacle link  304 - 2 . The button member  312 - 1  may be configured to face a user when the band  104  is being worn. In other words, the button member  312 - 1  may be on a non-cosmetic or non-outwardly facing portion of the latching link  302 - 1 . 
       FIG. 4  is a partial cross-sectional view of the releasable link assemblies  110 - 1  and  110 - 2 , viewed along line  4 - 4  in  FIG. 3 , showing the releasable links coupled to one another. In this configuration, the protrusion  316  extends into the recess  402  in the receptacle link  304 - 2  as well as into a recess  404  (e.g., a channel) in the latching link  302 - 1 . This configuration results in a first face  408  of the protrusion  316  engaging with a feature  406  of the latching link  302 - 1 . The feature  406  may be a wall that defines the recess  404 , or any other wall, protrusion, stud, or other feature that is configured to overlap or otherwise engage the first face  408  of the protrusion  316 . As shown in  FIG. 4 , the first face  408  may partially engage the wall  406  by partially overlapping with the wall  406 . In some embodiments, the entire first face  408  may engage (e.g., contact) the wall  406 . 
     This configuration also results in a second face  412  of the protrusion  316  partially engaging or partially overlapping a feature  410  of the receptacle link  304 - 2 . The feature  410  may be a wall of the recess  402 , or any other wall, protrusion, stud, or other feature that is configured to overlap or otherwise engage the second face  412  of the protrusion  316 . 
     The button member  312 - 1  may deflect the protrusion  316  of the spring member  314  into the recess  402  (when the button member is pressed by a user, for example) such that the first face  408  no longer overlaps or engages with the feature or wall  406  of the latching link  302 - 1  and the latching link  302 - 1  may be decoupled from the receptacle link  304 - 2 . In other words, the protrusion  316  is pushed entirely out of the recess  404  in the latching link  302 - 1  so that the latching link  302 - 1  and the receptacle link  304 - 2  can be slid apart from one another. 
       FIG. 5A  is an expanded view of the area  414  in  FIG. 4 , showing the positioning of the first and second faces  408 ,  412  with respect to the features of the latching link  302 - 1  and the receptacle link  304 - 2 .  FIG. 5A  may correspond to a state in which the band  104  is not in significant tension, and thus the protrusion  316  is not imparting appreciable retaining forces on the features (e.g., walls)  406 ,  410 .  FIG. 5B  is another expanded view of the area  414  in  FIG. 4 , showing the positioning of the first and second faces  408 ,  412  with respect to the features  406 ,  410  when the releasable link assemblies  110 - 1  and  110 - 2  are subjected to a decoupling force (e.g., when a relative force in the direction of arrow  502  is applied to the latching link  302 - 1 ). The decoupling force causes the latching link  302 - 1  to move (or be forced) relative to the receptacle link  304 - 2  such that the feature or wall  406  contacts the first face  408  of the protrusion  316 . The force imparted onto the first face  408  by the latching link  302 - 1  causes the protrusion  316  to be forced towards the feature  410  of the receptacle link  304 - 2  (as indicated by arrow  504 ), and forces the second face  412  against the feature  410 . 
     The second face  412  is positioned relative to the feature  410  such that the end of the protrusion  316  of the spring member partially overlaps or partially engages the second face  412 . In particular, the second face  412  is positioned relative to the feature  410  such that a first portion  508  of the second face  412  overlaps the feature  410  (e.g., it contacts the feature  410  at least when resisting a decoupling force of a certain magnitude), and a second portion  510  of the second face  412  does not overlap the feature  410  (e.g., is configured to not contact the feature  410 , even when resisting a decoupling force). By spanning the edge of the feature  410  in this manner, the protrusion  316  is prevented from twisting or otherwise deforming, which could result in the second face  412  diving or sliding into the recess  402  (as indicated by arrow  506 ). More particularly, the engagement of the corner of the feature  410  with a central portion of the second face  412  may increase the friction between the second face  412  and the feature  410  to prevent sliding, which, in turn, increases the resistance of the protrusion to twisting, deformation, and/or sliding when the links  302 - 1 ,  304 - 2  are subjected to a decoupling force. 
     The feature  410  may include a notch, shelf, cutout, protrusion, recess, or other feature that engages with the second face  412  to prevent the protrusion  316  from twisting or sliding with respect to the feature  410 . For example, the feature  410  may include a notch into which a portion of the second face  412  is disposed when the latching link  302 - 1  is subjected to a decoupling force. The physical engagement between the notch and the second face  412  prevents or limits the protrusion  316  from twisting or sliding along the feature  410  (in the direction indicated by arrow  506 ), and thus increases the strength and/or security of the coupling between the latching link  302 - 1  and the receptacle link  304 - 2 . 
     While  FIG. 5A  shows that the faces  408 ,  412  of the protrusion  316  are not in contact with the features (e.g., walls)  406 ,  410 , this is merely to illustrate a resting state, and is not necessarily indicative of the mechanical clearances or interferences between these components. Indeed, both faces  408 ,  412  of the protrusion  316  may be in contact with the respective features  406 ,  410  even when the links are not subject to a decoupling force, and a decoupling force may result only in the increase or decrease of the pressure generated between those components. 
       FIG. 6A  is an exploded view of the receptacle link  304 - 2  showing the spring member  314  removed from the body of the receptacle link  304 - 2 .  FIG. 6B  is a perspective view of the receptacle link  304 - 2  showing the spring member  314  coupled to the body of the receptacle link  304 - 2 .  FIGS. 6A-6B  illustrate an example coupling mechanism that may securely retain the spring member  314  to the body of the receptacle link  304 - 2 . This coupling mechanism may allow the spring member  314  to be coupled to the receptacle link  304 - 2  without joining techniques such as welding, adhering (e.g., with glues, epoxies, or the like), fastening (e.g., with screws, bolts, or rivets), soldering, brazing, or the like. Accordingly, the coupling mechanism described herein may be used where the receptacle link  304 - 2  is formed from a material that is not well suited to those joining techniques, such as platinum, gold, silver, amorphous metals, ceramics, cermets (e.g., composites of ceramic and metallic materials), carbon fiber composites, or the like (or any combination or alloy of such materials). 
     The receptacle link  304 - 2  includes one or more pairs of retention features (e.g., studs  602  and walls  604 ) separated by a gap, into which the spring member  314  is disposed. For example, a stud  602 - 1  may protrude from a surface of the body of the receptacle link  304 - 2  and define a side of a channel  605 - 1 , with a wall  604 - 1  defining the opposite sides of the channel  605 - 1 . The spring member  314  is configured to be elastically deformed when inserted into the channel  605 - 1  between the stud  602 - 1  and the wall  604 - 1  such that the spring member  314  imparts a retention force against the stud  602 - 1  and wall  604 - 1 . For example, the spring member  314  may include tabs  606  that extend from a base portion  608  of the spring member  314  and are configured to contact the studs  602 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 7A-7C , the tabs  606  are elastically deflected with respect to the base portion  608  when the tabs  606  engage with the studs  602 . Because the tabs  606  are elastically deflected when the spring member  314  is coupled to the receptacle link  304 - 2 , the tendency of the tabs  606  to return to an undeflected (or less deflected) state results in the tabs  606  exerting a retention force on both the studs  602  and the walls  604 . This force acts to oppose forces that are applied to the spring member  314  that act in a direction that could cause the spring member  314  to become decoupled from the receptacle link  304 - 2 . Moreover, because the force is produced directly between the spring member  314  and the receptacle link  304 - 2 , the spring member  314  can be retained to the receptacle link  304 - 2  without the use of additional fasteners, welds, adhesives, or the like. This mechanism may reduce the cost and time necessary to manufacture receptacle links  304 , and may provide a simpler, lighter, and more robust connection between the spring member  314  and the receptacle links  304 . 
       FIGS. 7A-7C  are cross-sectional views of the receptacle link  304 - 2  viewed along line  7 - 7  in  FIG. 6B , illustrating various stages of a process of coupling the spring member  314  to the receptacle link  304 - 2 . Some aspects of the receptacle link  304 - 2  are not shown in  FIGS. 7A-7C  for clarity. In  FIG. 7A , the spring member  314  is disposed above the receptacle link  304 - 2 , and has not yet engaged with the stud  602 - 1  or the wall  604 - 1 . In  FIG. 7B , the spring member  314  is in contact with the wall  604 - 1  (e.g., it is placed in a corner defined by the wall  604 - 1  and a surface of the body of the receptacle link  304 - 2 ), and the tab  606 - 1  has begun to engage the stud  602 - 1 . At this point, the tab  606 - 1  has begun to deflect with respect to the base portion  608  of the spring member  314 . As shown in  FIG. 7C , as the spring member  314  is pressed further into the channel  605 - 1  ( FIGS. 6A, 7A ), the tab  606 - 1  continues to engage with the stud  602 - 1  as the spring member  314  is pressed into its final position. 
     The faces of the studs  602  that engage the tabs  606  may have any appropriate contour, feature, radius, shape, or angle to facilitate retention of the spring member  314  to the receptacle link  304 - 2 . For example, the faces may be curved or angled such that the tabs  606  maintain a continuous force against the studs  602  as the spring member  314  is pressed further into the channel  605 - 1  ( FIGS. 6A, 7A ). Alternatively, the faces may be curved or angled such that the tabs  606  progressively increase or decrease the amount of force applied to the studs  602  as the spring member  314  is pressed further into the channel  605 - 1  ( FIGS. 6A, 7A ). 
     The process of coupling the spring member  314  to the receptacle link  304 - 2  may be performed by a human, a machine, or any combination of humans and machines. For example, a human may position the spring member  314  at an appropriate location with respect to the receptacle link  304 - 2 , and then use a tool or machine to apply sufficient force to press the spring member  314  into the channel  605 - 1  ( FIGS. 6A, 7A ) between the studs  602  and the walls  604  and deflect the tabs  606  to provide the appropriate retention force. 
     In some cases, the studs  602  may include undercuts, notches, or other features that receive or otherwise engage with the tabs  606  to retain the spring member  314  to the receptacle link  304 - 2 . For example,  FIG. 8  is a cross-section of the receptacle link  304 - 2  viewed along line  7 - 7  in  FIG. 6B , illustrating an embodiment where the stud  602 - 1  includes a notch  802  at the location where the tab  606 - 1  contacts the stud  602 - 1  when the spring member  314  is in its final position. (Some aspects of the receptacle link  304 - 2  are not shown in  FIG. 8  for clarity.) Once the spring member  314  is positioned in its final position with respect to the body of the receptacle link  304 - 2 , an end of the tab  606 - 1  snaps into the notch  802 , which in turn retains the spring member  314  in the final position. The notch  802  may a recess or groove, as shown, or it may be a widening of the channel  605 - 1  ( FIGS. 6A, 7A ), such as an undercut or recess formed in the stud  602 - 1 . The wall  604 - 1  may include a similar undercut, notch, channel, or other feature to retain the base portion  608  to the wall  604 - 1 . 
       FIG. 9  is a perspective view of a link assembly  900 - 1  and a complementary link assembly  900 - 2 . The coupling mechanism used to join complementary link assemblies  900  allows the link assemblies  900  to be removed from one another using a tool, and thus the link assemblies  900  may be considered releasable link assemblies. Accordingly, the link assemblies  900  may be used in place of the releasable link assemblies  110 , allowing a user to resize the band  104  with relative convenience. However, because a tool is required to decouple the links from one another, the link assemblies  900  may be used in conjunction with releasable link assemblies  110  (e.g., the link assemblies  900  may be used in place of some or all non-releasable link assemblies  112  in the band  104 ), such that the user can use the releasable link assemblies  110  to perform most watch resizing operations without tools. In such cases, the releasable link assemblies  110  may provide enough adjustability to the band  104  that it is not necessary to decouple the link assemblies  900 , but they may be decoupled if necessary. Of course, any combination of releasable link assemblies  110 , non-releasable link assemblies  112 , and the link assemblies  900  may be used in a given band. 
     The link assemblies  900  each include a latching link  902  pivotally coupled to a receptacle link  904 , similar to the latching links  302  and receptacle links  304  of  FIG. 3 . Receptacle links  904  include leaf springs  906  coupled thereto. The leaf springs  906  are coupled to the receptacle links  904  in any appropriate way, including interference fits, mechanical interlocking features (e.g., undercuts, notches, grooves), rivets, bolts, screws, fasteners, welds, and the like. 
     The leaf springs  906  may be at least partially positioned in recesses  908  in the bodies of the receptacle links  904 , and partially positioned outside of the recesses  908 . For example, with reference to the link assembly  900 - 2 , the ends of the leaf spring  906 - 2  are within the recess  908 - 2 . The portion of the leaf spring  906 - 2  that is within the recess  908 - 2  may be mechanically coupled to the body of the receptacle link  904 - 2 . A second portion of the leaf spring  906 - 2  is positioned outside of the recess  908 - 2  (e.g., it extends above a surface of the receptacle link  904 - 2  and/or the top of the recess  908 - 2  so that it can engage with the latching link  902 - 1 ). The portion of the leaf spring  906 - 2  that is positioned outside of the recess  908 - 2  is configured to engage with lip portions  910  (also referred to as “lips  910 ”) that extend away from the body of the latching link  902 - 1 . The lip portions  910  are configured to engage with the leaf spring  906 - 2  when the latching link  902 - 1  is coupled to the receptacle link  904 - 2  to retain the link assemblies  900 - 1  and  900 - 2  together. The lip portions  910  may form sides of a channel  912  (shown in hidden lines) into which part of the leaf spring  906 - 2  extends when the link assemblies  900 - 1 ,  900 - 2  are coupled together. 
     The leaf spring  906 - 2  may include a tongue portion  914 - 2  that protrudes from the leaf spring  906 - 2  substantially perpendicularly to a longitudinal axis of the leaf spring  906 - 2 . The tongue portion  914 - 2  may also be angled toward the body of the receptacle link  904 - 2 . As described herein, the tongue portion  914 - 2  may be configured such that a downward force (e.g., towards the body of the receptacle link  904 - 2 ) applied to the tongue portion  914 - 2  (e.g., by a tool) causes the leaf spring  906 - 2  to disengage from the lip portions  910 , thus allowing the link assemblies  900 - 1  and  900 - 2  to be decoupled from one another. The angle of the tongue portion  914 - 2  may facilitate engagement with the tool to allow the leaf spring  906 - 2  to disengage from the lip portions  910 . 
     The lip portions  910  of a given link assembly  900  may be separated by a gap  916  into which a corresponding tongue portion  914  is positioned when the links are coupled together. For example, when the latching link  902 - 1  is coupled to the receptacle link  904 - 2 , the tongue portion  914 - 2  may be positioned in the gap  916  between the lip portions  910  of the latching link  902 - 1 . The gap  916  between the lip portions  910  allows the portions of the leaf spring  906 - 2  that are adjacent the tongue portion  914 - 2  to extend into the channel  912 - 1  and engage with the lips  910 . In particular, if there were no gap between the lip portions  910 , the interference of the tongue portion  914 - 2  with the lip portions  910  could prevent the leaf spring  906 - 2  from extending into the channel  912 - 1 . 
     The latching links  902  may include channels  918  (or structures, tunnels, gaps, or other access clearances) that are aligned with the tongue portions  914  of the leaf springs  906  to allow a tool to access the tongue portions  914 . For example, the channel  918 - 2  allows a tool to pass through a portion of the link assembly  900 - 2  to reach the tongue portion  914 - 2  of the leaf spring  906 - 2 . In some embodiments, the channels  918  interrupt or otherwise pass between spring bars or other members that couple the latching link  902 - 2  to the receptacle link  904 - 2 . The tool may then deflect the leaf spring  906 - 2  away from the latching link  902 - 1 , thus disengaging the leaf spring  906 - 2  from the lips  910 .  FIG. 11  depicts a band  104  in which a tool  1102  has been inserted into a channel  918  to decouple the link assembly  900 - 2  from the link  900 - 1 . 
       FIG. 10A  is a partial cross-sectional view of the link assemblies  900 - 1  and  900 - 2  viewed along line  10 A- 10 A in  FIG. 9 , showing the link assemblies coupled to one another. The leaf spring  906 - 2  extends into the channel  912 - 1  in the latching link  902 - 1  (as shown in  FIG. 10B ). The tongue portion  914 - 2  extends away from the leaf spring  906 - 2  and is angled towards the receptacle link  904 - 2 . The tongue portion  914 - 2  is positioned relative to the receptacle link  904 - 2  and the latching link  902 - 2  such that a tool or other implement can be inserted into or through the channel  918 - 2  (as well as a channel  1002  in the receptacle link  904 - 2 ) and engage with the tongue portion  914 - 2  to decouple the link assemblies  900 - 1 ,  900 - 2 . For example, the angle of the tongue portion  914 - 2  may provide a face having a suitable angle, contour, or shape such that the tool or implement inserted into the channels  918 - 2  and  1002  is reliably and easily guided into a position against the tongue portion  914 - 2  to facilitate disengagement of the leaf spring  906 - 2  from the lips  910  of the latching link  902 - 1 . 
       FIG. 10B  is a partial cross-sectional view of the link assemblies  900 - 1  and  900 - 2  viewed along line  10 B- 10 B in  FIG. 9 .  FIG. 10B  illustrates a portion of the leaf spring  906 - 2  that is adjacent the tongue portion  914 - 2  engaged with the lip  910  to retain the receptacle link  904 - 2 , to which the leaf spring  906 - 2  is coupled, to the latching link  902 - 1 . As noted above, the portion of the leaf spring  906 - 2  that engages with the lip  910  in  FIG. 10B  may be disengaged from the lip  910  when the tongue portion  914 - 2  is forced towards the receptacle link  904 - 2 , thus forcing the leaf spring  906 - 2  to be removed from the channel  912 - 1  in the latching link  902 - 1 . The latching link  902 - 1  may then be easily slid apart from the receptacle link  904 - 2 . 
     The latching link  902 - 1  and/or the leaf spring  906 - 2  may be configured so that the act of coupling the latching link  902 - 1  to the receptacle link  904 - 2  causes the leaf spring  906 - 2  to be deflected such that the leaf spring  906 - 2  can move past the lips  910  and properly seat in the channel  912 - 1 . Alternatively, the latching link  902 - 1  and/or the leaf spring  906 - 2  may be configured so that a tool (e.g., the tool  1102 ) must be used to deflect the leaf spring  906 - 2  away from the latching link  902 - 1  so that the leaf spring  906 - 2  can clear the lips  910 . 
     Non-Releasable Link Assemblies 
       FIG. 12  is a perspective view of a non-releasable link assembly  112 - 1  and a complementary non-releasable link assembly  112 - 2 . Non-releasable link assemblies  112  may be used in conjunction with releasable link assemblies  110  (and/or link assemblies  900 ) to form the band  104  or a portion thereof. Non-releasable link assemblies  112  may be stronger, less expensive, and easier to produce than releasable link assemblies  110 . Accordingly, including both releasable and non-releasable links in the band  104  may lower the cost of the band and improve its strength while also providing enough adjustability (via the removable links) to fit most users&#39; needs. 
     Each link assembly  112  includes a latching link  1202  and a receptacle link  1204 . For example, in the link assembly  112 - 2 , the latching link  1202 - 2  is pivotally coupled to the receptacle link  1204 - 2 . Moreover, similar to the releasable link assemblies  110  described above, each latching link (e.g., the latching link  1202 - 1 ) is configured to couple to a receptacle link of another link assembly (e.g., the receptacle link  1204 - 2 ). While the latching link and receptacle link of a given link assembly (e.g., link assembly  112 - 1 ) are pivotally coupled to one another, the coupling between a latching link of one assembly (e.g., the latching link of the link assembly  112 - 1 ) and the receptacle link of another assembly (e.g., the receptacle link of the link assembly  112 - 2 ) is configured to not allow pivoting (or pivoting is minimized or reduced). Thus, the non-pivoting coupling between separate non-removable link assemblies mimics the non-pivoting coupling between separate releasable link assemblies. In this way, a band  104  that includes both releasable and non-releasable link assemblies maintains a consistent feel and flexibility despite including several different kinds of links. 
     With reference to  FIG. 12 , the body of the receptacle link  1204 - 2  includes an engagement surface  1206  and sidewalls  1208  extending away from the engagement surface  1206 . The sidewalls  1208  are separated by a gap  1210 . 
     The latching link  1202 - 1  is disposed at least partially within the gap  1210  when the link assemblies  112 - 1 ,  112 - 2  are coupled to one another. A body of the latching link  1202  includes a second engagement surface  1212  that is configured to contact the engagement surface  1206  when the link assemblies  112 - 1 ,  112 - 2  are coupled to one another. 
     The latching link  1202 - 1  and the receptacle link  1204 - 2  are coupled and/or retained together via a retention mechanism. For example, in  FIG. 12 , the body of the latching link  1202 - 1  includes a through hole  1216  extending from one side surface to another side surface. A spring bar  1214  is configured to be disposed in the through hole  1216 , and ends of the spring bar  1214  are configured to be disposed in recesses  1218  in the sidewalls  1208  of the receptacle link  1204 - 2 . Other retention mechanisms may be used instead of or in addition to the spring bar mechanism described above. For example, a spring bar may be used to retain one side of the latching link  1202 - 1  to the receptacle link  1204 - 2 , and a rigid protrusion may be used on the other side of the latching link  1202 - 1  to engage with the recess  1218  in the opposite side. 
     The recesses  1218  may be blind holes, such that the outer surfaces of the receptacle link  1204 - 2  are not interrupted with openings or access ports to reach the spring bar. In some cases, this may make it difficult or impossible to remove the spring bar  1214  from the recesses  1218  (without damaging the links) to disengage the latching link  1202 - 1  from the receptacle link  1204 - 2 . This may be acceptable or desirable, however, as these links may be configured as permanently joined links that do not need to be decoupled to resize or disassemble the band  104 . For example, the retention mechanism described with respect to  FIGS. 12-13  may replace other permanent joining techniques (e.g., welding or brazing) that are not suitable for certain materials. More particularly, welding and brazing may be unsuitable for joining links that are formed from (or include) materials such as platinum, gold, silver, ceramic, amorphous metals or the like. The combination of the spring bar retention mechanism and the pivot-preventing structures of the receptacle links  1204  and the latching links  1202  (described with respect to  FIG. 13 ) provide rigid, secure couplings between links, without requiring welding, brazing, or other fusion-type joining processes. 
       FIG. 13  is a partial cross-sectional view of the link assemblies  112 - 1  and  112 - 2  viewed along line  13 - 13  in  FIG. 12 . As illustrated in  FIG. 13 , the interaction and/or engagement of the engagement surfaces  1206  and  1212  prevents, limits, or constrains the rotation of the latching link  1202 - 1  with respect to the receptacle link  1204 - 2 . In particular, the dimensions and shapes of the latching and receptacle links  1202 - 1 ,  1204 - 2 , as well as the positioning of the through hole  1216  and the recesses  1218  ( FIG. 12 ), may be selected such that the engagement surfaces  1206 ,  1212  substantially prevent the latching link  1202 - 1  from rotating relative to the receptacle link  1204 - 2 . For example, in the depicted embodiment, the engagement surfaces  1206 ,  1212  are both substantially planar or flat, allowing the engagement surfaces  1206 ,  1212  to form a continuous contact region between them. Moreover, the engagement surface  1212  of the latching link  1202 - 1  includes an overhanging portion extending beyond the through hole  1216  sufficiently far to prevent the latching link  1202 - 1  from rotating in a counter-clockwise direction (based on the orientation of  FIG. 13 ). For example, a distance  1304  between the center of the spring bar  1214  and a corner  1302  of the latching link  1202 - 1  may be longer than a distance  1306  from the center of the spring bar  1214  to the engagement surface  1206  of the receptacle link  1204 - 2 . The overhanging portion of the latching link  1202 - 1  causes the engagement surface  1212  of the latching link  1202 - 1  (and in particular the corner  1302 ) to be forced against the engagement surface  1206  of the receptacle link  1204 - 2  such that rotation of the latching link  1202 - 1  is prevented. 
     Rotation or pivoting of the latching link  1202 - 1  with respect to the receptacle link  1204 - 2  may be substantially completely prevented. For example, the latching link  1202 - 1  may be prevented from rotating more than about +/−1 degree relative to the receptacle link  1204 - 2 . In some cases, the latching link  1202 - 1  may be prevented from rotating more than about +/−2, 5, 7, or 10 degrees relative to the receptacle link  1204 - 2 . In some cases, the latching link  1202 - 1  is prevented from freely rotating at all relative to the receptacle link  1204 - 2  (e.g., to the extent that the links rotate relative to one another, it results from application of a force sufficient to deform the material, rather than the free rotation). 
     While the example links shown in  FIGS. 12-13  include substantially flat engagement surfaces  1206 ,  1212 , any other appropriate shape or shapes may be used. For example, the engagement surfaces may have interlocking structures (e.g., complementary saw-toothed profiles, tongue-and-groove features, or any other complementary recesses and protrusions) that provide mechanical interference that prevents or limits rotation of the latching links  1202  with respect to neighboring receptacle links  1204 . 
     Clasps 
     As noted above, bands for watches and other wearable devices, whether they include releasable link assemblies or not, may have clasps that allow the user to open and close the band to facilitate application and removal of the device from the user&#39;s wrist.  FIG. 14A  is an illustrative perspective view of one example of a wearable device  1400  (also referred to as “device  1400 ”) that includes a clasp assembly  1402  in accordance with some embodiments. As described herein, the clasp assembly  1402  (or simply “clasp  1402 ”) may be used in conjunction with a band that includes releasable link assemblies (e.g., releasable link assemblies  110 ) and/or non-releasable link assemblies (e.g., link assemblies  112 ). In some cases, however, the clasp  1402  may be used in conjunction with bands that do not include such assemblies, such as leather, cloth, or mesh bands, or bands made of other materials or links. 
     Returning to  FIG. 14A , the device  1400  may include a housing  1404 . The housing  1404  may include mounting features formed on opposite ends to connect a wearable band  1406  (also referred to as “band  1406 ”) to the housing  1404 . For example, the housing  1404  includes channels  1422  into which engagement members  1502  ( FIG. 15 ) of the band  1406  may be disposed. For example, the engagement members  1502  of the band  1406  may be slid into (or out of) the channels  1422  through an opening in a side of the housing  1404 . Retention means (not shown) on the insides of the channels  1422  may prevent the engagement members  1502  of the band  1406  from unexpectedly sliding out of the channels  1422 . The engagement members  1502  may be lugs, cylinders, beams, rods, or any other appropriate member or component that slides into or out of a channel (e.g., the channels  1422 ) of a housing to attach or otherwise couple the band  1406  to the housing. 
     As shown in  FIG. 14A , and discussed herein, the band  1406  may include a first strap  1408  and a second strap  1410  positioned opposite the first strap  1408 . The band  1406  may also include a clasp  1402  coupled to the first strap  1408  and the second strap  1410 . The band  1406 , and specifically the first strap  1408 , the second strap  1410 , and the clasp  1402 , may be used to secure the device  1400  to a user, or to any other object capable of receiving the device  1400 . 
       FIG. 14B  illustrates a perspective view of the clasp  1402 , showing the clasp  1402  in a partially open configuration. In this example, the clasp  1402  includes a clasp body  1412  pivotally coupled to first and second connecting arms  1414 ,  1416 . The connecting arms  1414 ,  1416  are pivotally coupled to respective clasp covers  1418 ,  1420 . The operation of the pivoting couplings between the connecting arms  1414 ,  1416  and the clasp body  1412  and respective clasp covers  1418 ,  1420  allows the clasp  1402  to articulate or move between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the closed configuration, the connecting arms  1414 ,  1416  are disposed at least partially between the clasp body  1412  and the clasp covers  1418 ,  1420  such that the clasp covers  1418 ,  1420  may engage with the clasp body  1412  via a latching mechanism to secure the clasp  1402  in a closed configuration. 
     While  FIGS. 14A-14B  illustrate a clasp  1402  that has two connecting arms and two clasp covers, a clasp  1402  (having a clasp body  1412 ) may instead include only one connecting arm and only one clasp cover. It will be understood that the descriptions of the various mechanisms and connecting arm configurations and materials described herein apply equally to either type of clasp. 
     The connecting arms  1414 ,  1416  may be configured to flex in one or more directions. In particular, certain manipulations of the band  1406  may result in a stress or force being applied to the connecting arms  1414 ,  1416 . For example, coupling or decoupling the band  1406  to or from the housing  1404  may include sliding the engagement members  1502  of the band  1406  into or out of the channels  1422  in the housing  1404 . This action may require the band  1406  to be twisted, bent, or otherwise deformed in order to accommodate or allow the movement of the engagement members  1502  that is necessary for coupling and/or decoupling.  FIG. 15  shows a perspective view of the device  1400  as the band  1406  is partially decoupled from the housing  1404 . In particular, the engagement members  1502  of the band  1406  are partially removed from the channels  1422  of the housing  1404 , resulting in the band  1406  (and/or the clasp  1402 ) being twisted, bent, or otherwise deformed. 
     Where the band  1406  includes rigid links, such as the releasable or non-releasable link assemblies  110 ,  112 , the band  1406  may not be able to accommodate the amount of twisting or deformation necessary to couple the band  1406  to or decouple it from the housing  1404 . Accordingly, the connecting arms  1414 ,  1416  (or flexible connecting arms  1414 ,  1416 ) may be formed from a material that is rigid, stiff, and/or strong enough to securely couple the clasp body  1412  to the clasp covers  1418 ,  1420  (as well as to maintain the appropriate alignment between these components), while also being flexible enough to allow the band  1406  to be twisted during coupling and decoupling without damaging the links of the band  1406  or the clasp  1402  itself. In particular, the flexible connecting arms  1414 ,  1416  may be configured to deform (or capable of deforming) from an undeformed shape (e.g., a resting or unstrained shape) during coupling/decoupling of the band  1406  and the housing  1404 , and also to return to the undeformed shape after the band  1406  is coupled to or decoupled from the housing  1404 . 
       FIG. 16  is an expanded perspective view of a portion of the clasp  1402 . The flexible connecting arm  1414  includes lugs  1602 ,  1604  at opposite ends of a flexible member  1606 . Alternatively, the flexible connecting arm  1414  may include one lug. As yet another alternative, the flexible connecting arm  1414  may include no lugs, and entire connecting arm  1414  may be formed from a monolithic flexible member. The flexible member  1606  may be formed from any appropriate material, including, but not limited to, high-strain metals, amorphous metals, shape-memory metals, superelastic metals, and pseudoelastic metals. For example, the flexible member  1606  may be formed from a nickel-titanium metal alloy (e.g., Nitinol) or a beta-titanium alloy. 
     The flexible member  1606  extends along a longitudinal axis  1608 , and may be configured to bend away from and/or twist about the longitudinal axis  1608 , without plastically deforming (e.g., becoming permanently bent or deformed), in order to allow the band  1406  to be coupled to or decoupled from the housing  1404 . For example, the flexible member  1606  may be able to bend away from the longitudinal axis  1608  or twist about the longitudinal axis  1608  by at least +/−5, 10, 15, or 20 degrees (or any other appropriate amount) without plastically deforming. 
     The shape of the flexible member  1606  may be configured to allow the desired amount of bending, and to direct the bending to the desired location along the flexible member  1606 . For example, the flexible member  1606  may have a central portion  1610  that is narrower than its end portions, such that twisting or bending forces applied to the flexible member  1606  result primarily in deformations within the central portion  1610 . 
     Additionally, the size and/or shape of the central portion  1610  may be optimized to be less stiff (e.g., more flexible) in certain directions and/or in certain locations than in other directions and/or locations. For example,  FIG. 17  is a cross-sectional view of the flexible member  1606  viewed along line  17 - 17  in  FIG. 16 . The rectangular cross-section of the flexible member  1606  may be more flexible in the +/−y directions than in the +/−x directions (as illustrated by coordinate system  1700 ). The rectangular cross-section of the flexible member  1606  may also allow twisting about the +/−z direction (e.g., into/out of the page). The flexibility of the flexible member may correspond to any appropriate measure of stiffness or resistance to deformation, such as an elastic modulus of a material, or a stiffness constant of the flexible member  1606  (e.g., an amount of deflection per unit force applied to the flexible member). 
     The flexibility of the flexible member  1606  may also provide a biasing force between the clasp body  1412  and the clasp covers  1418 ,  1420 . For example, the flexible member  1606  may be configured to be elastically deformed (e.g., bent) when the clasp  1402  is closed. The tendency of the flexible member  1606  to return to its undeformed or unbent state (e.g., the biasing force created by the flexible member  1606 ) may result in the clasp  1402  at least partially separating under its own force (e.g., “popping” open) when a user unlatches or “opens” the clasp  1402 . This allows a user to more easily manipulate the clasp  1402 , and may obviate the need to apply complex manipulations to the clasp  1402  to both unlatch the clasp  1402  and unfold the mechanism. Moreover, the clasp  1402  may be retained in a closed configuration by operation of hook-shaped latches or catches, and a force that biases the latch toward an open configuration may help to force the hook of the latch against a retaining structure, thereby increasing the strength and the security of the clasp. 
     In order to generate the biasing force, the flexible member  1606  may be configured to contact or otherwise engage with the clasp body  1412  (or any other appropriate component) to cause the flexible member  1606  to bend when the clasp  1402  is closed.  FIGS. 18A-18B  are partial cross-sections of the clasp  1402  viewed along line  18 - 18  in  FIG. 16 .  FIG. 18A  illustrates the clasp  1402  in a partially open (e.g., not fully closed) configuration, where the flexible member  1606  is not engaged with the clasp body  1412 , and thus is not elastically deformed.  FIG. 18B  illustrates the clasp  1402  in a closed configuration, where the flexible member  1606  has contacted the clasp body  1412 , causing the flexible member  1606  to be bent to conform to the contour of the clasp body  1412 . As noted above, the flexible member  1606  may be formed from a material that can sustain high strains without plastically deforming. The tendency of the flexible member  1606  to un-bend (e.g., return to an undeformed state) imparts a biasing force between the clasp body  1412  and the clasp cover  1418  ( FIG. 14 ) that tends to separate these components (as illustrated by arrow  1800 ). 
     The flexible member  1606  may be configured to provide the biasing force (e.g., the force that causes the clasp  1402  to “pop” open and to help engage the retention latches of the clasp) in addition to being flexible enough to allow the band  1406  to accommodate the forces applied thereto while it is being coupled to or decoupled from the housing  1404 . Alternatively, the flexible member  1606  (or, more generally, the clasp  1402 ) may be configured to provide only one of these functionalities. For example, a flexible member of a clasp may be configured to allow the clasp to bend during application or removal of the band, but may not impart a biasing force tending to open the clasp. Similarly, a flexible member that provides a biasing force may not have sufficient material or structural properties to deform without breakage or damage while the band  1406  is being applied to or removed from an electronic device housing. 
     In the foregoing figures and description, similar instances of particular components may be designated by additional numbers or appended to the element number. For example, particular instances of receptacle links may be designated  304 - 1 ,  304 - 2 , etc. It will be understood that any discussion related to an individual instance of a component (e.g., the receptacle link  304 - 1 ) may also apply to other instances of that component (e.g., the receptacle link  304 - 2 ). Moreover, where the discussion refers to an element number without any additional number or indicator (e.g., the receptacle links  304 ), the discussion may apply to any or all instances of that component. 
     The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not targeted to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20191031
Publication Date: 20220222
Grant Date: 20220222
Priority Date: 20150928
Inventors: DE IULIIS, DANIELE
WEBB, MICHAEL J.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "G04B37/1493", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A44C5/107", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04B37/1493", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A44C5/2076", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A44C5/107", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A44C5/2076", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A44C5/2076", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A44C5/107", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04B37/1493", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 58408406