PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-12093088-B2
Application Number: US-202217833784-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Modular light assembly for a wearable device

Abstract:
A modular light assembly is designed for integration with wearable devices. For example, the modular light assembly can connect with a wearable device, such as a smartwatch, including both a device housing and a band of the wearable device. Additionally, the modular light assembly can receive communication from the wearable device through various means, including inductive energy transfer. As a result, the modular light assembly can receive communication from the wearable device to activate (turn on) or deactivate (turn off) one or more light sources of the modular light assembly. Additionally, or alternatively, the modular light assembly device may include a button coupled to a switch that can activate or deactivate the light source(s).

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A wearable device comprising:
 a device housing; 
 a touchscreen carried by the device housing; 
 a band configured to secure the device housing to a user, the band connected to the device housing; and 
 a an accessory device positioned between, and coupled with, the band and the device housing, the accessory device comprising:
 a housing assembly; and 
 
 a light source disposed in the housing assembly, wherein:
 the accessory device is separable from the band, and 
 an input to the touchscreen alters a state of the light source. 
 
 
     
     
       2. The wearable device of  claim 1 , wherein:
 the housing assembly that includes an internal chamber; and 
 the light source located in the internal chamber. 
 
     
     
       3. The wearable device of  claim 2 , wherein the housing assembly further comprises:
 a cylindrical body that defines a first end and a second end opposite the first end; 
 a lens secured with the first end, the lens covering the light source; and 
 a button secured with the second end, the button configured to illuminate the light source. 
 
     
     
       4. The wearable device of  claim 2 , further comprising a link positioned between, and connected with, the device housing and the housing assembly. 
     
     
       5. The wearable device of  claim 4 , further comprising:
 a transmitter coil carried by the device housing; and 
 a receiver coil carried by the link, wherein the transmitter coil is configured to provide a command to the receiver coil by an induced electrical current, and the command controls the light source. 
 
     
     
       6. The wearable device of  claim 1 , wherein:
 the device housing comprises a receptacle configured to receive the accessory device, and 
 the accessory device is separable from the device housing at the receptacle. 
 
     
     
       7. An accessory device suitable for use with a wearable device, the accessory device comprising:
 a housing assembly comprising a cylindrical body that defines an internal chamber; 
 a connection mechanism extending from the cylindrical body, the connection mechanism comprising an opening configured to receive a band used with the wearable device; 
 a light source located in the internal chamber; 
 a lens coupled with the housing assembly and covering the light source; and 
 a communication component, wherein the light source is configured to receive a command, via the communication component, that alters a state of the light source. 
 
     
     
       8. The accessory device of  claim 7 , further comprising:
 a link coupled with the housing assembly; and 
 a flexible circuit configured to transmit the command when the link is coupled with the wearable device. 
 
     
     
       9. The accessory device of  claim 8 , wherein the communication component comprises a receiver coil carried by the link, the receiver coil configured to receive an induced electrical circuit that transmits command. 
     
     
       10. The accessory device of  claim 9 , wherein:
 the link comprises a non-metal insert configured to engage the wearable device, and 
 the receiver coil is disposed in the non-metal insert. 
 
     
     
       11. The accessory device of  claim 8 , wherein:
 the housing assembly comprises a cylindrical body, and 
 the connection mechanism and the link extend radially outward from the cylindrical body. 
 
     
     
       12. The accessory device of  claim 11 , further comprising a second flexible circuit that passes through the housing assembly and electrically couples to the communication component. 
     
     
       13. The accessory device of  claim 8 , wherein:
 the housing assembly further comprises a first end and a second end opposite the first end, 
 a lens is secured with the housing assembly at the first end 
 a button is secured with the housing assembly at the second end, the button electrically coupled to the flexible circuit and configured to control the light source, and 
 the internal chamber is covered by the lens and the button. 
 
     
     
       14. The accessory device of  claim 7 , further comprising a power source located in the internal chamber. 
     
     
       15. An accessory device suitable for use with a wearable device, the accessory device comprising:
 a housing assembly that includes an internal chamber, the housing assembly comprising connection mechanism; 
 a band detachably secured with the housing assembly at the connection mechanism; 
 a light source located in the internal chamber; 
 a button coupled with a first end of the housing assembly and configured to alter a state of the light source; and 
 a lens coupled with a second end of the housing assembly and covering the light source, the second end opposite the first end. 
 
     
     
       16. The accessory device of  claim 15 , wherein:
 the connection mechanism comprises a receptacle formed in the housing assembly, 
 the band comprises a first end detachably secured with the receptacle, and 
 the band comprises a second end, opposite the first end, configured to detachably secure with the wearable device. 
 
     
     
       17. The accessory device of  claim 16 , further comprising a second connection mechanism secured with the housing assembly, the second connection mechanism configured to secure with a device housing of the wearable device. 
     
     
       18. The accessory device of  claim 15 , wherein the connection mechanism comprises an opening, and the band passes through the opening. 
     
     
       19. The accessory device of  claim 18 , further comprising a second connection mechanism secured with the housing assembly, wherein the second connection mechanism and the band are configured to secure with a device housing of the wearable device. 
     
     
       20. The accessory device of  claim 15 , further comprising a communication component configured to receive a command from the wearable device that alters a state the light source, wherein the communication component comprises a wireless transceiver configured to communicate with the wearable device over a short-range wireless communication protocol.

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     This application is directed to an accessory device for a wearable device. More particularly, this application is directed to a modular light assembly that can integrate with a wearable device by securing with the wearable device and a band. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Wearable devices, including smartwatches, include a display that presents visual information (e.g., textual information, images) to a user. Additionally, some wearable devices can illuminate the display to provide a light source for a user. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Certain features of the subject technology are set forth in the appended claims. However, for purpose of explanation, several embodiments of the subject technology are set forth in the following figures. 
         FIG.  1    illustrates a perspective view of a wearable device and an accessory device integrated with the wearable device, in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  2    illustrates perspective view of the accessory device shown in  FIG.  1   , in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  3    illustrates an exploded view of the accessory device, showing several components of the accessory device, in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  4    illustrates an exploded view of a protruding element of the link, showing additional components, in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  5    illustrates a cross-sectional view of the wearable device and the accessory device, showing respective communication components of the wearable device and the accessory device, in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  6    illustrates a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of an accessory device, showing a modification to a housing assembly to enable an alternate communication mode, in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  7    illustrates a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of an accessory device, showing a modification to a housing assembly to secure with a band, in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  8    illustrates a schematic diagram of the wearable device and the accessory device, in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  9    illustrates a flowchart showing a method for operating an accessory device, in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The detailed description set forth below is intended as a description of various configurations of the subject technology and is not intended to represent the only configurations in which the subject technology may be practiced. The appended drawings are incorporated herein and constitute a part of the detailed description. The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of the subject technology. However, it will be clear and apparent to those skilled in the art that the subject technology is not limited to the specific details set forth herein and may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known structures and components are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuring the concepts of the subject technology. 
     A wearable device, such as a smartwatch, can perform a range of functions that are managed by the components (e.g., sensor hardware, circuitry, and software) included with the wearable device. For example, a wearable device may include a display designed to present visual information to a user as well as receive an input from the user. Moreover, some displays of wearable devices can illuminate to simulate a light source, such as a flashlight. For example, one or more pixels of the display can illuminate in a white, or near-white, appearance. 
     The present disclosure is directed to accessory devices for wearable devices that provide an external light source separate from the display of the wearable device. Accessory devices described herein may include a modular light assembly designed to attach to the wearable device as well as a band (e.g., wristband) of the wearable device. Modular light assemblies described herein may include one or more discrete light sources that can be controlled (i.e., turned on or off) in a number of ways. For example, the accessory device, when attached to the wearable device, may be in communication with the wearable device such that an input to the wearable device can send a command to the accessory device to alter the state of the light sources. In other words, the input can change the state from an unilluminated (off) state to an illuminated (on) state, or vice versa. Additionally, an accessory device may include a button used to change the state of the light sources. By integrating a modular light source, wearable devices described herein may rely upon the light source mode, as opposed to a display of a wearable device, for illumination. Moreover, when the modular light sources includes a dedicated (i.e., separate) battery, the wearable device is less susceptible to the display draining the wearable device battery. 
     Also, wearable devices are commonly worn by a user during physical activity, including aerobic activity (e.g., jogging, running). Moreover, wearable devices are also commonly worn by a user while the user is swimming. Accordingly, the user may expose the wearable device to liquid. In this regard, modular light assemblies described herein may include liquid-resistant features, such as seals or O-rings, that prevent liquid ingress to sensitive components. 
     Systems, devices, and methods of the present disclosure can provide a modular light assembly that, when used with a wearable device, provides a dedicated illumination device. The modular light assembly can be controlled by a user through interaction with a feature located on the modular light assembly and/or through interaction with the display of the wearable device or other input mechanism of the wearable device. 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS.  1 - 9   . However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these Figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. 
     According to some embodiments, for example as shown in  FIG.  1   , a wearable device  100  includes an electronic device in the form of a smartwatch that is worn on an appendage (e.g., wrist) of a user. Wearable device  100  includes a device housing  102  that includes an internal chamber, or internal volume, that stores operational components, such as a processor, a memory circuit, sensors (e.g., heart rate sensor, blood-oxygen level sensor), and a battery, as non-limiting examples. Device housing  102  may include a metal housing or non-metal housing. 
     To secure with a user, wearable device  100  may include a band  104  that wraps around an appendage of a user. Band  104  may include one or more of a variety of materials, such as silicone, woven fabric, or multiple metal links. 
     Wearable device  100  further includes a display  106  designed to present visual information in the form of textual information, still images, or motion images (i.e., video). Display  106  may include a light-emitting diode (LED) display or an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, as non-limiting examples. Additionally, display  106  may include a capacitive touch input display, thus allowing display  106  to take the form of a touchscreen to receive an input from a user. 
     Additionally, wearable device  100  may include input mechanisms designed to provide an input to a processor of wearable device  100 , with the input causing the processor to provide a command to alter and update the visual information provided by display  106 . For example, wearable device  100  includes an input mechanism  108   a  and an input mechanism  108   b . Input mechanism  108   a  may include a button that, when depressed, actuates a switch to generate an input. Input mechanism  108   b  may include a dial that, when rotated, generates an input. Moreover, the input may vary based upon clockwise rotation or counterclockwise rotation of input mechanism  108   b . Additionally, input mechanism  108   b  can also take the form of a button that, when depressed, actuates an additional switch to generate an input. 
     As shown in  FIG.  1   , an accessory device  110  is secured with wearable device  100 . In some embodiments, accessory device  110  takes the form of a modular light assembly that includes one or more light sources, such as a light source  120   a  and a light source  120   b . In this regard, accessory device  110  provides an illumination device separate from display  106 . The state (i.e., on or off states) of light sources  120   a  and  120   b  can be controlled/altered using a button  111  of accessory device  110 . In some embodiments, an input to display  106  and/or input mechanisms  108   a  and  108   b  alters the state of light sources  120   a  and  120   b.    
     To integrate with wearable device  100 , accessory device  110  can secure with both device housing  102  and band  104 . Further, as shown in  FIG.  1   , device housing  102  includes a receptacle  112   a  and a receptacle  112   b . By way of an intermediate device (discussed below), accessory device  110  can secure with device housing  102  at receptacle  112   a . Also, accessory device  110  can secure with band  104 . 
     As shown in  FIG.  1   , band  104  forms a continuous loop in which one end of band secures with accessory device, and another opposite end secures with receptacle  112   b . While band  104  is shown as being connected to accessory device  110  and receptacle  112   b , band  104  can be disconnected with accessory device  110  and/or receptacle  112   b , and replaced with one or more bands (not shown in  FIG.  1   ). Accordingly, band  104  is detachably secured with accessory device  110  and receptacle  112   b.    
     Based on the position of light sources  120   a  and  120   b  relative to display  106 , light sources  120   a  and  120   b , when illuminated, generate visible light cast in a direction that is perpendicular, or at least substantially perpendicular, to a plane defined by display  106  and perpendicular to a loop defined by band  104 . Put another way, light sources  120   a  and  120   b , when illuminated, generate visible light cast in a direction that is parallel, or at least substantially parallel, to an axis defined by a user&#39;s appendage (not shown) when the appendage passes through band  104 . 
     To secure with device housing  102  (shown in  FIG.  1   ), a connection mechanism  116   b  may serve as an intermediate device that is secured with housing assembly  114 . Connection mechanisms  116   a  and  116   b  may be referred to as a first connection mechanism and a second connection mechanism, respectively. However, “first” and “second” may be used interchangeably. Connection mechanism  116   b  may act as a link, or linking element, between housing assembly  114  and device housing  102 . In some embodiments, housing assembly  114  and connection mechanism  116   b  are integrally formed together, and thus non-separable. 
     Referring to  FIG.  2   , accessory device  110  is shown separated from wearable device  100  and band  104  (both shown in  FIG.  1   ). Accessory device  110  includes a housing assembly  114  that includes an internal chamber, or internal volume, that carries several components for accessory device  110 . As shown, housing assembly  114  includes a cylindrical body, or at least a substantially cylindrical body. However, other shapes are possible. Housing assembly  114  may be formed from one or more materials, such as aluminum (including anodized aluminum) as a non-limiting example. However, other materials (including different metals and non-metals) may also be used. Further, a connection mechanism  116   a  extends from housing assembly  114  and forms an opening  118  to receive a band (e.g., band  104  shown in  FIG.  1   ). As shown in  FIG.  2   , connection mechanism  116   a  extends radially outward from housing assembly  114 . 
     Band  104  may include a self-securing feature, such as hook and loop fasteners (i.e., VELCRO®), magnets, snaps (as non-limiting examples), used to secure with accessory device  110 . Also, in this regard, band  104  is separable from accessory device  110  by disconnecting band  104  from connection mechanism  116   a , i.e., removing band  104  from opening  118 . By separating band  104  from connection mechanism  116   a , band  104  is not deformed or otherwise damaged. Alternatively, in some embodiments, band  104  is sewn, adhered, or otherwise permanently attached to accessory device  110 . 
     Light sources  120   a  and  120   b  of accessory device  110  may include LED light sources or incandescent light elements. Light sources  120   a  and  120   b  may provide visible light in a variety of colors, as well as white light. Moreover, the color/appearance and/or the intensity (e.g., lumens) of the visible light may be preset, or alternatively, may be adjusted by a user input. While two light sources are shown, accessory device  110  may include a different number of light sources. Accessory device  110  may also include a lens  122  that covers light sources  120   a  and  120   b . Lens  122  may include a transparent material (e.g., glass or plastic), and act as a protective cover for light sources  120   a  and  120   b.    
     In the embodiment shown in  FIG.  2   , housing assembly  114  and connection mechanism  116   b  are separable pieces secured together. Also, connection mechanism  116   b  is designed to detachably secure with device housing  102  such that connection mechanism  116   b  can be secured with or removed from a receptacle (i.e., receptacle  112   a  shown in  FIG.  1   ) of device housing  102 . Connection mechanism  116   b  carries multiple protruding elements designed to mate with device housing  102 . For example, connection mechanism  116   b  includes a protruding element  126   a , a protruding element  126   b , and a protruding element  126   c . Protruding elements  126   a ,  126   b , and  126   c  may take the form of a non-metal insert and may include one or more non-metal materials (e.g., rubber, silicone) that increase the securing force between connection mechanism  116   b  and device housing  102 , and also prevent damage (i.e., scratching) of device housing  102 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  3   , accessory device  110  includes several additional components. For example, accessory device  110  includes a circuit board  128  that carries light sources  120   a  and  120   b . Additionally, accessory device  110  includes a flexible circuit  130  and a switch  132  located on flexible circuit  130 . Flexible circuit  130  is electrically coupled to light sources  120   a  and  120   b  via circuit board  128 . Accessory device  110  further includes a power source  134 . By depressing button  111 , switch  132  is actuated, thus allowing light sources  120   a  and  120   b  to receive electrical current from power source  134  to energize (e.g., turn on) and illuminate light sources  120   a  and  120   b . Button  111  can be sequentially depressed to actuate switch  132  and deenergize (e.g., turn off) turn off light sources  120   a  and  120   b.    
     In some embodiments, power source  134  is a battery, which may include a rechargeable battery. In this regard, accessory device  110  may include a port (not shown in  FIG.  3   ) used to receive an external power source that charges power source  134 . Alternatively, power source  134  may be charged during a charging operation of wearable device  100  (shown in  FIG.  1   ) when wearable device  100  is capable of transferring electrical current to accessory device  110 . 
     Accessory device  110  further includes a sleeve  136  and a lens barrel  138  that secure with opposing ends of housing assembly  114 . For example, sleeve  136  can secure button  111  with a first end  139   a  of housing assembly  114 , while lens barrel  138  can secure lens  122  with a second end  139   b  of housing assembly  114 . Additionally, lens barrel  138  can receive light sources  120   a  and  120   b , circuit board  128 , flexible circuit  130 , switch  132  and power source  134 . Lens barrel  138  may also be disposed in housing assembly  114 . Further, in order to prevent liquid ingress into housing assembly  114 , sleeve  136  and lens barrel  138  include a sealing element  140   a  and a sealing element  140   b , respectively. In some embodiments, sealing elements  140   a  and  140   b  are O-rings. As a result of sealing elements  140   a  and  140   b , accessory device  110  forms a liquid-resistant accessory device that protects sensitive components, such as light sources  120   a  and  120   b  and power source  134 . 
     To further enhance light sources  120   a  and  120   b , accessory device  110  may include a lens  142   a  and a lens  142   b  that cover light sources  120   a  and  120   b , respectively. When accessory device  110  is assembled, lens  122  covers lenses  142   a  and  142   b . Also, to secure connection mechanism  116   b  with housing assembly  114 , accessory device  110  includes a fastener  144   a  and a fasteners  144   b . In some embodiments, fasteners  144   a  and  144   b  are threaded fasteners. Based on fasteners  144   a  and  144   b , connection mechanism  116   b  may be a removable connection mechanism, thus allowing a different connection mechanism (not shown in  FIG.  3   ) to be secured with housing assembly  114 . 
     Housing assembly  114  may include an opening  153  that receives flexible circuit  148  and is also covered by connection mechanism  116   b  when connection mechanism  116   b  is assembled to housing assembly  114 . 
     In addition to button  111 , the state of the light sources  120   a  and  120   b  can be altered through other means. Connection mechanism  116   b  can carry components used to communicate with electrical components of wearable device  100  (shown in  FIG.  1   ). For example, referring to  FIG.  4   , a communication component  146  is designed to communicate with a corresponding communication component of wearable device  100  (shown in  FIG.  1   ). In some embodiments, communication component  146  is an inductive coil. In this regard, communication component  146  includes a wire wrapped around multiple protruding features. An induced electrical current can form in communication component  146  when communication component  146  is in proximity to an alternating electromagnet field. The induced electrical current may correspond to a command to turn on or turn off light sources  120   a  and  120   b . To carry the induced electrical current, a flexible circuit  148  is electrically coupled to communication component  146  and flexible circuit  130  (shown in  FIG.  3   ). 
     To store communication component  146 , protruding element  126   a  can provide an internal storage area. By modifying and using protruding element  126   a —an existing component of connection mechanism  116   b —additional design modifications for storing accessory device  110  may not be required. Beneficially, connection mechanism  116   b  may include one or more metal components, yet not impede a magnetic field from reaching communication component  146 , as protruding element  126   a  is a non-metal component. While protruding element  126   a  is shown as a component to receive communication component  146 , either of protruding elements  126   b  and  126   c  (shown in  FIG.  2   ) may alternatively be used. Additionally, a cowling  150  and a fastener  152  can secure communication component  146  and flexible circuit  148  with connection mechanism  116   b.    
     Referring to  FIG.  5   , wearable device  100  includes a communication component  156  designed to communicate with communication component  146  disposed in connection mechanism  116   b . In some embodiments, communication component  156  is an inductive coil similar to communication component  146  when communication component  146  takes the form of an inductive coil. Further, in some embodiments, communication component  156  is a transmitter coil and communication component  146  is a receiver coil. Accordingly, when communication component  156  receives an alternating electrical current, an alternating electromagnetic field is generated. Based on the respective positions of communication components  146  and  156 , the alternating electromagnetic field reaches communication component  146  and induces an electrical current in communication component  146 . The induced electrical current is used as a command from wearable device  100  to alter a state of (i.e., activate or deactivate) light sources  120   a  and  120   b  of accessory device  110  (shown in  FIG.  2   ). The use of communication components  146  and  156  allows wearable device  100  and accessory device  110  (shown in  FIG.  1   ) to communicate without a direct, wired communication. 
     Alternatively, in some embodiments (not shown), a wired connection between communication components  146  and  156  is implemented. For example, pin-and-socket connections, spring loaded pins (e.g., pogo pins), and other wired connections that can be disconnected by a user can be implemented between wearable device  100  and accessory device  110 . 
     As shown in  FIG.  5   , wearable device  100  includes a cap  158  that covers communication component  156 . Cap  158  may include a non-metal material, such as plastic, silicone, rubber, or the like. Accordingly, based on their respective material makeups, protruding element  126   a  and cap  158  provide little, if any, impedance of the electromagnetic field, while also providing a protective cover against ingress of liquid, debris, or other contaminants. 
     Accessory devices described herein may include several modifications. For example,  FIGS.  6  and  7    show and describe exemplary modifications to at least one prior embodiment of an accessory device. Although not shown and described in the same details as prior embodiments, accessory devices shown and described in  FIGS.  6  and  7    may include any components and associated features shown and described for prior embodiments of an accessory device. 
     Referring to  FIG.  6   , an accessory device  210  may include a housing assembly  214  and light sources  220   a  and  220   b  carried by housing assembly  214 . Similar to a prior embodiment, accessory device  210  includes a connection mechanism  216   a  and a connection mechanism  216   b . Accessory device  210  further includes a button  211  used to control light sources  220   a  and  220   b . However, other methods for controlling light sources  220   a  and  220   b  are possible. For example, as shown, a connection mechanism  216   a  extends from housing assembly  214  and forms an opening  218  to receive a band (e.g., band  104  shown in  FIG.  1   ). Additionally, a non-metal structure  260  is integrated with housing assembly  214 . Non-metal structure  260  may include one or more materials, such as a polymeric material, resin, or the like. Non-metal structure  260  is formed in proximity to connection mechanism  216   a  and opening  218 . However, other locations of non-metal structure  260  are possible. 
     As shown in  FIG.  6   , non-metal structure  260  covers a communication component  246 . In some embodiments, communication component  246  is a wireless transceiver that communicates with a wearable device (not shown in  FIG.  6   ) over a short-range communication protocol, such as BLUETOOTH® (as a non-limiting example), using an antenna circuit and controller. In this regard, non-metal structure  260  is selected so as to provide little, if any, impedance of radio frequency (RF) communication. Beneficially, housing assembly  214  may include one or more metals to provide a robust housing, while also permitting wireless communication, as non-metal structure  260  allows communication component  246  to send and receive RF energy, which can be used to control (i.e., turn on and turn off light sources  220   a  and  220   b ). 
     Referring to  FIG.  7   , an accessory device  310  may include a housing assembly  314  and light sources  320   a  and  320   b  carried by housing assembly  214 . Similar to a prior embodiment, accessory device  310  includes a connection mechanism  316   b . Accessory device  310  further includes a button  311  used to control light sources  320   a  and  320   b . However, other methods for controlling light sources  320   a  and  320   b  are possible, such as through inducing electrical current or short-range wireless communication protocol. As shown, housing assembly  314  includes a connection mechanism  316   c  designed to receive a structure. Rather than protrude from housing assembly  314  (similar to connection mechanisms  116   a  and  216   a  in  FIGS.  2  and  6   , respectively), connection mechanism  316   c  forms a receptacle, or recessed area, in housing assembly  314 . In this regard, connection mechanism  316   c  is capable of receiving and securing a band  304 . Accordingly, connection mechanism  316   c  can replace a loop and opening shown in prior embodiments. As shown, connection mechanism  316   c  includes receptacles  366   a ,  366   b , and  366   c  designed to receive protruding elements  326   a ,  326   b , and  326   c , respectively, of band  304 . 
     Also, as shown in  FIG.  7   , connection mechanism  316   c  extends to opposing ends of housing assembly  314 , thereby allowing band  304  to slide axially into and out of connection mechanism  316   c  in the directions along arrows  370 . The size and shape of housing assembly  314  may be altered such that button  311  does not interfere with band  304  entering or exiting connection mechanism  316   c . Alternatively, band  304  may slide radially into and out of connection mechanism  316   c  in the directions along arrows  372 . Regardless of the securing direction, band  304  can detachably secure with housing assembly  314  of accessory device  310  by way of connection mechanism  316   c . Although not shown, band  304  may include a second, opposing end that detachably secures with a receptacle (e.g., receptacle  112   b  shown in  FIG.  1   ) of a housing assembly of a wearable device. Alternatively, band  304  may secure through mechanical means, magnetic elements, and/or hook and look fasteners, with an additional band (not shown in  FIG.  7   ), and the additional band is configured to detachably secure with a receptacle (e.g., receptacle  112   b  shown in  FIG.  1   ) of a housing assembly of a wearable device. 
       FIG.  8    illustrates a schematic diagram  400  of a wearable device  460  and an accessory device  480 , in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure. The components and associated features of wearable device  460  and accessory device  480  may be incorporated into any wearable device and accessory device, respectively, described herein. 
     As shown, wearable device  460  includes one or more processors  462 . One or more processors may include a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a controller (including one or more microcontrollers), and an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), as non-limiting examples. 
     Wearable device  460  further includes a power source  464  electrically coupled to one or more processors  462 . Power source  464  may include a direct current (DC) battery, including a DC rechargeable battery. Power source  464  is designed to provide electrical energy to the various components of wearable device  460  shown in  FIG.  8   . 
     Wearable device  460  further includes a memory  466 , which may include random-access memory (RAM) and read-only memory (ROM), as non-limiting examples. Memory  466  stores various software applications, including their respective executable instructions that are run by one or more processors  462 . For example, memory  466  stores a software application for operating accessory device  480 , including one or more light sources  486  of accessory device  480 . 
     Wearable device  460  further includes a display  468  in communication with one or more processors  462 . Display  468  is designed to present visual information based on, for example, information provided by software applications stored on memory  466 . Based on at least one software application stored on memory  466 , display  468  can present visual information that includes an indication whether one or more light sources  486  of accessory device  480  is turned on or off, as well as the light intensity (e.g., brightness) of one or more light sources  486 . Additionally, display  468  may include a capacitive touch input display. In this regard, a touch input to display  468  can provide a signal to one or more processors  462 , which can be used by one or more processors  462  to generate a command to turn on or turn off one or more light sources  486  of accessory device  480 . Additionally, or in combination, a swipe or gesture to display  468  can provide a signal to one or more processors  462 , which can be used by one or more processors  462  to generate a command to increase the intensity (i.e., brighten) or decrease the light intensity (i.e., dim) of one or more light sources  486  of accessory device  480 . 
     Wearable device  460  further includes one or more input mechanisms  470  in communication with one or more processors  462 . One or more input mechanisms  470  may include a button designed to, when depressed, actuate a switch. In this regard, one or more input mechanisms  470  can provide a signal to one or more processors  462 , which can be used by one or more processors  462  to generate a command to turn on or turn off one or more light sources  486  of accessory device  480 . Additionally, or in combination, one or more input mechanisms  470  may include a dial designed to, when rotated, provide a signal to one or more processors  462 , which can be used by one or more processors  462  to generate a command to increase or decrease the light intensity of one or more light sources  486  of accessory device  480 . 
     Wearable device  460  further includes a communication component  472  in communication with one or more processors  462 . Communication component  472  is designed to communicate a command from one or more processors  462  to a communication component  484  of accessory device  480 . In some embodiments, communication components  472  and  484  each include an inductive coil. In this regard, when one or more processors  462  receives an input from display  468  or from one or more input mechanisms  470 , one or more processors  462  allows communication component  472  to receive electrical current from power source  464 . Moreover, one or more processors  462  can modify the electrical current from power source  464  such that communication component  472  receives an alternating electrical current. Based on the alternating electrical current, an alternating electromagnetic field is emitted from communication component  472 , causing an induced electrical current in communication component  484  of accessory device  480 . The induced electrical current represents a transmission of the command by wearable device  460  to one or more processors  482  to operate one or more light sources  486  of accessory device  480  in accordance with the command, i.e., turn on, turn off, increase light intensity of, or decrease light intensity of one or more light sources  486 . 
     In some embodiments, communication component  472  of wearable device  460  may induce electrical current in a series of pulses, with the pulses varying in terms of the number of pulses, time between consecutive pulses, and/or duration of pulses. In this regard, each series of pulses is assigned to a particular command that is known by both one or more processors  462  of wearable device  460  and one or more processors  482  of accessory device  480 . Accordingly, one or more processors  482  of accessory device  480  can decode the series of pulses to determine the type of command. 
     Alternatively, in some embodiments, communication components  472  and  484  each include a wireless transceiver designed to communicate over a short-range wireless protocol, such as BLUETOOTH® as a non-limiting example. The communication may include a command code provided by the communication component  472  of the wearable device  460  to communication component  484  of accessory device  480 . The command code may include an instruction to turn on or turn off one or more light sources  486 , or to increase or decrease the light intensity of one or more light sources  486 . 
     Accessory device  480  includes one or more processors  482 . One or more processors may include a CPU or an ASIC, as non-limiting examples. One or more processors  482  can receive an input from communication component  484 , with the input including an electrical signal representing a command to instruct one or more processors  482  to control (i.e., turn on, turn off, increase the light intensity of, or decrease the light intensity of) one or more light sources  486  in communication with one or more processors  482 . 
     Each of one or more light sources  486  may include an LED or an incandescent bulb. Moreover, when one or more light sources  486  are capable of illuminating in different colors of visible light, a command received by one or more processors  482  via communication component  484  can instruct one or more light sources  486  to change color. 
     As yet another way in which one or more light sources  486  can be controlled, a command provided by wearable device  460  may be used to command a subset of one or more light sources  486  to turn on, or to command a subset of one or more light sources  486  to turn off. Accordingly, a collective light intensity of one or more light sources  486  can altered based on turning some, but not all, light sources of one or more light sources  486  on or off. 
     Additionally, accessory device  480  includes an input mechanism  488  in communication with one or more processors  482 . In some embodiments, input mechanism  488  includes a button that, when depressed, actuates a switch and generates an electrical signal to one or more processors  482 . One or more processors  482  uses the electrical signal to generate an instruction to one or more light sources  486  that turns on or turns off one or more light sources  486 . Moreover, in some embodiments, a series of depressions to input mechanism  488  may generate a corresponding series of electrical signals received by one or more processors  482 . One or more processors  482  can use the series of electrical signal to generate an instruction to one or more light sources  486  that turns on, turns off, increases the lights intensity, decreases the light intensity, or turns on/off a subset of one or more light sources  486 . 
     Further, accessory device  480  includes a power source  490  in communication with one or more processors  482 . Power source  490  may include a DC battery, including a DC rechargeable battery. Power source  490  is designed to provide electrical energy to the aforementioned components of accessory device  480 . In some embodiments, communication component  472  induces an electrical current in communication component  484 , and the electrical current is used to charge power source  490 . Also, in some embodiments, communication component  472  induces an electrical current in communication component  484 , and the electrical current is used to operate components (i.e., one or more processors  482 , communication component  484 , and one or more light sources  486 ), and power source  490  is not present in accessory device  480 . 
     Additionally, in some embodiments, wearable device  460  can request information from accessory device  480  and accessory device  480  can provide the information based on the request. For example, communication component  484  can provide information, such as which, if any, of one or more light sources  486  are illuminated, the intensity (e.g., degree of brightness as a percentage) of each of the one or more light sources  486 , and/or battery life of power source  490 . The information provided by communication component  484  can be received by wearable device  460 , and one or more processors  462  of wearable device  460  can execute instructions stored on memory  466  to illuminate display  468  and present visual information in accordance with the received information. Additionally, in some embodiments, accessory device  480  can provide the information to wearable device  460  without a request from wearable device  460 . 
       FIG.  9    illustrates a flowchart  500  showing a method for operating an accessory device, in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure. The steps shown and described in flowchart  500  may be carried out by wearable devices described herein to alter a state of modular light assemblies described herein. Further, in some embodiments, the steps shown and described in flowchart  500  are carried out at one or more processors of a wearable device. Also, the accessory device may include any accessory device shown and described herein. For explanatory purposes, flowchart  500  is primarily described herein with reference to the wearable devices described herein. However, flowchart  500  is not limited to a wearable device or any one component thereof, and one or more blocks (or operations) of flowchart  500  may be performed by different components of the wearable device and/or one or more other devices. Further for explanatory purposes, the blocks of flowchart  500  are described herein as occurring in serial, or linearly. However, multiple blocks of flowchart  500  may occur in parallel. In addition, the blocks of flowchart  500  need not be performed in the order shown, and/or one or more blocks of flowchart  500  need not be performed and/or can be replaced by other operations. 
     At step  502 , an input is received. The wearable device may include a display and/or one or more input mechanisms used to generate an input. Further, the wearable device includes one or more processors designed to receive and process the input. 
     At step  504 , a signal to a communication component of the wearable device is provided based on the received input. In some embodiments, the communication component is a transmitter coil that generates an alternating electromagnetic field, based on an alternating electrical current received at the transmitter coil, that induces electrical current in a receiver coil of the accessory device. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the communication component is a wireless transceiver capable of communication over a short-range communication protocol, such as BLUETOOTH®, as a non-limiting example. 
     At step  506 , a command to the accessory device is generated by the communication component of the wearable device. The command may be generated by an induced electrical current in the receiver coil, caused by the alternating electromagnetic field. Alternatively, the command may be generated by the wireless transceiver, and received by a wireless transceiver of the accessory device. 
     At step  508 , a state of the accessory device is altered based on the command. For example, the command may cause the accessory device to alter a state of one or more light sources of the accessory device from an unilluminated state (i.e., off) to an illuminated state (i.e., on), or vice versa. Further, when the light source is illuminated, the command may be used to alter the light intensity, i.e., increase the light intensity or decrease the light intensity. As a result, the brightness of the light source can be controlled by the wearable device. Lastly, in some embodiments, the command will cause one or more light sources to enter an unilluminated state or an illuminated state. 
     Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a modular light assembly forms a dedicated light source for wearable devices. The modular light assembly may include an onboard input (i.e., button) to control the state of the light sources of the modular light assembly. Additionally, the light sources can be controlled by an input to a wearable device when the modular light assembly is secured with a wearable device. Also, the modular light assembly is liquid-resistant, thus allowing a user to expose a wearable device to liquid (i.e., water) without damaging the modular light assembly. 
     Various examples of aspects of the disclosure are described below as clauses for convenience. These are provided as examples, and do not limit the subject technology. 
     Clause A: A wearable device including: a device housing; a touchscreen carried by the device housing; a band configured to secure the device housing to a user, the band connected to the device housing; and a modular light assembly positioned between the band and the device housing, the modular light assembly comprising a light source, wherein: the modular light assembly is separable from the band, and an input to the touchscreen alters a state of the light source. 
     Clause B: A modular light assembly suitable for use with a wearable device, the modular light assembly including: a housing assembly that includes an internal chamber; a connection mechanism extending from the housing assembly, the connection mechanism including an opening configured to receive a band used with the wearable device; a light source located in the internal chamber; and a communication component configured to receive a command from the wearable device that alters a state of the light source. 
     Clause C: A modular light assembly suitable for use with a wearable device, the modular light assembly including: a housing assembly that includes an internal chamber, the housing assembly comprising a connection mechanism; a band detachably secured with the housing assembly at the connection mechanism; a light source located in the internal chamber; and a communication component configured to receive a command from the wearable device that alters a state of the light source. 
     One or more of the above clauses can include one or more of the features described below. It is noted that any of the following clauses may be combined in any combination with each other, and placed into a respective independent clause, e.g., clause A, B, or C.
         Clause 1: wherein: the modular light assembly includes a housing assembly that includes an internal chamber; and the light source located in the internal chamber.   Clause 2: wherein the housing assembly further includes: a first end; a second end opposite the first end; a lens secured with the housing assembly at the first end, the lens covering the light source; and a button secured with the housing assembly at the second end, the button configured to control the light source.   Clause 3: further including a link positioned between, and connected with, the device housing and the housing assembly.   Clause 4: further including: a transmitter coil carried by the device housing; and a receiver coil carried by the link, wherein the transmitter coil is configured to provide a command to the receiver coil by an induced electrical current, and the command controls the light source.   Clause 5: wherein the command is generated based on a touch input to the touchscreen.   Clause 6: further including: a link coupled with the housing assembly; and a flexible circuit configured to transmit the command when the link is coupled with the wearable device.   Clause 7: wherein the communication component includes a receiver coil carried by the link, the receiver coil configured to receive an induced electrical circuit that transmits the command.   Clause 8: wherein: the link includes a non-metal insert configured to engage the wearable device, and the receiver coil is disposed in the non-metal insert.   Clause 9: wherein: the housing assembly includes a cylindrical body, and the connection mechanism and the link extend radially outward from the cylindrical body.   Clause 10: further including a second flexible circuit that passes through the housing assembly and electrically couples to the communication component.   Clause 11: wherein the housing assembly further includes: a first end; a second end opposite the first end; a lens secured with the housing assembly at the first end, the lens covering the light source; and a button secured with the housing assembly at the second end, the button electrically coupled to the flexible circuit and configured to control the light source.   Clause 12: further including a power source located in the internal chamber.   Clause 13: wherein: the connection mechanism includes a receptacle formed in the housing assembly, the band includes a first end detachably secured with the receptacle, and the band includes a second end, opposite the first end, configured to detachably secure with the wearable device.   Clause 14: further including a second connection mechanism secured with the housing assembly, the second connection mechanism configured to secure with a device housing of the wearable device.   Clause 15: wherein the connection mechanism includes an opening, and the band passes through the opening.   Clause 16: further including a second connection mechanism secured with the housing assembly, wherein the second connection mechanism and the band are configured to secure with a device housing of the wearable device.   Clause 17: wherein the communication component includes a wireless transceiver configured to communicate with the wearable device over a short-range wireless communication protocol.       

     It is well understood that the use of personally identifiable information should follow privacy policies and practices that are generally recognized as meeting or exceeding industry or governmental requirements for maintaining the privacy of users. In particular, personally identifiable information data should be managed and handled so as to minimize risks of unintentional or unauthorized access or use, and the nature of authorized use should be clearly indicated to users. 
     As used herein, the phrase “at least one of” preceding a series of items, with the term “and” or “or” to separate any of the items, modifies the list as a whole, rather than each member of the list (i.e., each item). The phrase “at least one of” does not require selection of at least one of each item listed; rather, the phrase allows a meaning that includes at least one of any one of the items, and/or at least one of any combination of the items, and/or at least one of each of the items. By way of example, the phrases “at least one of A, B, and C” or “at least one of A, B, or C” each refer to only A, only B, or only C; any combination of A, B, and C; and/or at least one of each of A, B, and C. 
     The predicate words “configured to”, “operable to”, and “programmed to” do not imply any particular tangible or intangible modification of a subject, but, rather, are intended to be used interchangeably. In one or more implementations, a processor configured to monitor and control an operation or a component may also mean the processor being programmed to monitor and control the operation or the processor being operable to monitor and control the operation. Likewise, a processor configured to execute code can be construed as a processor programmed to execute code or operable to execute code. 
     Phrases such as an aspect, the aspect, another aspect, some aspects, one or more aspects, an implementation, the implementation, another implementation, some implementations, one or more implementations, an embodiment, the embodiment, another embodiment, some embodiments, one or more embodiments, a configuration, the configuration, another configuration, some configurations, one or more configurations, the subject technology, the disclosure, the present disclosure, other variations thereof and alike are for convenience and do not imply that a disclosure relating to such phrase(s) is essential to the subject technology or that such disclosure applies to all configurations of the subject technology. A disclosure relating to such phrase(s) may apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations. A disclosure relating to such phrase(s) may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as an aspect or some aspects may refer to one or more aspects and vice versa, and this applies similarly to other foregoing phrases. 
     The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration”. Any embodiment described herein as “exemplary” or as an “example” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “include”, “have”, or the like is used in the description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprise” as “comprise” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim. 
     All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various aspects described throughout this disclosure that are known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the claims. Moreover, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the claims. No claim element is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112, sixth paragraph, unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for” or, in the case of a method claim, the element is recited using the phrase “step for”. 
     The previous description is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. Various modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other aspects. Thus, the claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects shown herein, but are to be accorded the full scope consistent with the language claims, wherein reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless specifically so stated, but rather “one or more”. Unless specifically stated otherwise, the term “some” refers to one or more. Pronouns in the masculine (e.g., his) include the feminine and neuter gender (e.g., her and its) and vice versa. Headings and subheadings, if any, are used for convenience only and do not limit the subject disclosure.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20220606
Publication Date: 20240917
Grant Date: 20240917
Priority Date: 20220606
Inventors: HIEMSTRA, DANIEL J.
GUICHET, CHRISTOPHER D.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "G06F1/163", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1698", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/189", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "F21V33/0008", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04G21/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04G9/0041", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04G17/08", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04G17/02", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05B47/19", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1635", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1698", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1683", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04G17/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1683", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/163", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/189", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1698", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/163", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1683", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 88976445