PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-12026342-B2
Application Number: US-202117446394-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Using a structural internal element as a capacitive element to sense proximity

Abstract:
An electronic device can include a housing, a back cover, a structural member, and a sensing circuit. The housing can at least partially define an internal volume of the electronic device and the back cover can define at least a portion of the internal volume and be connected to the housing. The structural member can be disposed against the back cover and at least partially within the internal volume, the structural member including an electronic component. The sensing circuit can be disposed in the internal volume and electrically coupled to the electronic component. The sensing circuit can detect an amount of charge of the electronic component as part of a user proximity sensor of the electronic device.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. An electronic device, comprising:
 a housing at least partially defining an internal volume; 
 a front cover connected to the housing, the front cover comprising a touchscreen; 
 a back cover connected to the housing and disposed opposite the front cover, the back cover defining an exterior surface of the electronic device and an interior surface opposite the exterior surface and defining the internal volume; 
 a structural member disposed against the interior surface of the back cover and disposed at least partially within the internal volume, the structural member comprising an electronic component disposed between the structural member and the back cover; and 
 a sensing circuit disposed in the internal volume and electrically coupled to the electronic component, the sensing circuit detecting a charge of the electronic component. 
 
     
     
       2. The electronic device of  claim 1 , further comprising a processor disposed within the internal volume, the processor configured to determine a presence of an object near the back cover based at least partially on the charge detected by the sensing circuit. 
     
     
       3. The electronic device of  claim 2 , wherein the presence of the object is detected when the charge passes a threshold. 
     
     
       4. The electronic device of  claim 3 , wherein the threshold is passed when a distance between the structural member and the object is 30 mm or less. 
     
     
       5. The electronic device of  claim 4 , wherein:
 the charge is a first charge; 
 the electronic component is a first electronic component; 
 the structural member comprises a second electronic component that is electrically isolated from the first electronic component; and 
 the sensing circuit detects a second charge of the second electronic component. 
 
     
     
       6. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein:
 the back cover defines a back cover aperture; and 
 the structural member defines a structural member aperture. 
 
     
     
       7. The electronic device of  claim 6 , further comprising a transparent component disposed across the back cover aperture, wherein the back cover aperture is at least partially aligned with the structural member aperture. 
     
     
       8. The electronic device of  claim 6 , further comprising a sensor disposed in the internal volume, the sensor configured to send or receive a signal through the back cover.

Description:
FIELD 
     The present disclosure relates generally to electronic devices. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to proximity sensing apparatus, systems, and methods that can be incorporated into one or more electronic devices. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Recent advances in portable computing have enabled electronic devices that are worn on, and interface with, the body of the user. Many functionalities, including body sensing functionalities and other feedback systems, interne connectivity, cellular data capabilities, and other convenient functionalities have recently been incorporated into such wearable devices. 
     Wearable devices are generally designed to be compact in form and lightweight so as not to burden the user. The user&#39;s preference for compact and lightweight wearable devices, which include the various components needed to perform the multiple functions of the device, drives the need to further develop wearable electronic devices that are more compact, even as the number of functions and components within such devices increases. 
     Furthermore, the portable nature of wearable electronic devices can expose some of the components, such as sensors and antennas, to a variety of environments, which may vary in ambient lighting conditions, temperature, movement of the device, and so forth. Therefore, what is also needed are devices, systems, and methods for ensuring that such sensors and other components are durable, effective, and reliable for use in a variety of environments. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present disclosure relates generally to electronic devices. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to proximity sensing apparatus, systems, and methods that can be incorporated into one or more electronic devices. In one example, the present disclosure includes an electronic device that includes a housing, a back cover, a structural member, and a circuit. The housing can at least partially define an internal volume of the electronic device, and the back cover can define at least a portion of the internal volume and be connected to the housing. The structural member can be disposed against the back cover and at least partially within the internal volume, the structural member including an electronic component. The circuit can be disposed in the internal volume and can be electrically coupled to the electronic component, the circuit detecting an amount of charge of the electronic component. 
     In at least one example, such an electronic device can also include a processor disposed within the internal volume. The processor can be configured to determine a presence of an object at or near the back cover based at least partially on the amount of charge at the structural member. In one example, the amount of charge passes a charge threshold when a distance between the structural member and the object is 30 mm or less. 
     In one example, the structural member is electrically isolated from the housing. The electronic component can also include an electrically conductive material. 
     In at least one example, the electronic device includes first and second electronic components with first and second electrical charges, respectively, with the electronic components being isolated from one another. A circuit can be disposed in the internal volume of the electronic device, which is electronically coupled to the electronic components, to detect the amount of charge on the first and second electronic components separately. 
     In at least one example of the present disclosure, the back cover can define a back cover aperture, and the structural member can define a structural member aperture. The back cover aperture and the structural member aperture can be at least partially aligned. 
     Another example of an electronic device of the present disclosure includes a housing at least partially defining an internal volume, a back cover connected to the housing, a securement feature configured to hold the back cover against or near a user during use, and a user proximity sensor that includes an electrically charged electronic component. The user proximity sensor can be configured to sense when the back cover is at or near the user during use. 
     Such an electronic device can also include, for example, a front cover connected to the housing, where the front cover at least partially defines an exterior front surface of the device, where the back cover at least partially defines an exterior back surface of the device disposed opposite the exterior front surface, and the user proximity sensor includes a structural member disposed at least partially within the interior volume and at least partially against the back cover. In such an example, the structural can absorb forces acting on the back cover during use. 
     At least one example of the electronic component includes an electrically conductive material and the structural member can include the charged electronic component. The structural member can also include a lower surface with a first contour, and the back cover can include a top surface with a second contour. The first contour and the second contour can form an area of contact between the structural member and the back cover. 
     In at least one example, the user proximity sensor can also include a sensing circuit electronically coupled to the charged electronic component and a processor coupled to the sensing circuit. The processor can be configured to sense a change in an electric charge of the charged electronic component. 
     Another example of an electronic device of the present disclosure includes a housing at least partially defining an internal volume, an electronic component disposed at least partially within the internal volume, a sensing circuit disposed within the internal volume, the sensing circuit coupled to the electronic component, and a processor disposed in the internal volume. The processor can be configured to alternate the electronic component and the sensing circuit between a first sensor and a second sensor, where the first sensor includes a capacitive proximity sensor. 
     In one example, the processor is configured to determine a presence of an object at or near the housing based at least partially on the electrical charge of the electronic component. 
     In one example, the electronic device is a smart watch, the object is a user&#39;s body, and the smart watch includes a securement device configured to secure the smart watch to the user&#39;s body. 
     In at least one example, the electronic component defines a break extending from a periphery of the electronic component to an aperture defined by the electronic component, and the second sensor is an antenna. In at least one example, the back cover can be connected to the housing, and a structural member can include the electronic component. In such an example, the structural member can be configured to add structural strength to the back cover. 
     Additional features and advantages of examples given in the present disclosure will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by the practice of such examples. The features and advantages of such examples may be realized and obtained by means of the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. These and other features will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims or may be learned by the practice of such examples as set forth hereinafter. 
    
    
     
       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 schematic view of an electronic device. 
         FIG.  2    shows a schematic view of a user wearing one or more electronic devices. 
         FIG.  3    shows a perspective view of an electronic device. 
         FIG.  4    shows a lower, perspective, exploded view of an electronic device. 
         FIG.  5    illustrates an exploded view of a portion of an electronic device. 
         FIG.  6    illustrates an exploded view of a portion of an electronic device. 
         FIG.  7    illustrates an exploded view of a portion of an electronic device. 
         FIG.  8    illustrates a perspective view of a portion of an electronic device. 
         FIG.  9 A  illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of an electronic device. 
         FIG.  9 B  illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of an electronic device. 
         FIG.  9 C  illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of an electronic device. 
         FIG.  10    illustrates a top view of a portion of an electronic device. 
         FIG.  11    illustrates an electrical component of an electronic device. 
         FIG.  12    illustrates an electrical component of an electronic device. 
         FIG.  13    illustrates an exploded view of a portion of an electronic device. 
         FIG.  14    illustrates a perspective view of a portion of an electronic device. 
         FIG.  15    illustrates a cross-section view of the portion of the electronic device of  FIG.  14   . 
         FIG.  16    illustrates a perspective view of a portion of an electronic device. 
         FIG.  17    illustrates a cross-sectional view the portion of the electronic device of  FIG.  16   . 
         FIG.  18    illustrates a schematic view of a multiplexing electronic component of an electronic device. 
         FIG.  19    illustrates a circuit diagram of a multiplexing electronic component of an electronic device. 
     
    
    
     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. 
     The present disclosure relates generally to electronic devices. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to proximity sensing apparatus, systems, and methods that can be incorporated into one or more electronic devices. One aspect provides a wearable electronic device that can be secured against the body of a user. The electronic device can include a capacitive proximity sensor disposed within the device that senses when the user puts the device on and/or takes the device off. In at least one example, the capacitive proximity sensor can be disposed at or near a back cover of the electronic device, such that the sensor can detect when back cover is pressed against the body of the user, such as when the device is worn. 
     Capacitive proximity sensors require minimal power to operate and are not affected by ambient light conditions. The various examples and configurations of capacitive proximity sensors described herein can overcome various inherent limitations of capacitive proximity sensors, especially as used within wearable electronic devices. For example, the distance between a capacitive proximity sensor and the object being sensed increases as the area of the capacitive sensor element increases. However, portable and wearable electronic devices are generally small for ease of use, and therefore, are limited in space to accommodate such sensors. Examples of capacitive proximity sensors described herein advantageously utilize space within electronic devices to maximize the effective area of the sensor, and therefore, increase effectiveness. 
     In at least one example, an internal structural member of the electronic device acts as, or includes, a component of the capacitive proximity sensor in a way that provides a compact, durable sensor capable of reliable performance in a variety of environments, regardless of, for example, variations in ambient light. 
     Along these lines, in at least one example, a wearable electronic device includes one or more components within an internal volume thereof, including a combined structural-sensing member. This combined structural-sensing member can provide strength and rigidity to the electronic device, as well as sensing capabilities, in a compact and durable configuration. 
     In one example, a structural member of the electronic device includes an electronic component capable of collecting or having an electrical charge. During use, the electronic component, and therefore, at least a portion of the structural member, can be used as part of a capacitive proximity sensor. In at least one example, the structural member can be integrally formed as a single piece with the electronic component. Alternatively, the electronic component of the structural member can be separately formed and then joined with the structural member as a single or unitary structural member of the electronic device. In any case, the electronic component of the structural member can increase the structural integrity of the structural member to add strength, rigidity, and durability to the electronic device in addition to the charge collecting and capacitive sensing capabilities thereof. 
     In at least one example, the electronic component of the structural member can be used as more than one sensor and/or in one or more sensing systems. For example, a processor and sensing circuit can be electrically coupled to the electronic component of the structural member. The processor can be configured to alternate the electronic component and sensing circuit between a first sensor and a second sensor. The first sensor can include a capacitive proximity sensor and the second sensor can include an antenna. The antenna can be configured to receive/sense and emit electromagnetic waves propagating into and out from the electronic device, respectively. 
     In this way, a multiplexing electronic component of the structural member can serve as both a proximity sensor and an antenna, in addition to adding structural strength and durability to the device, without the need for separate components. The physical configuration of the structural member and its electronic component, as disclosed herein, can serve as three components in one, thus reducing the space occupied by the components inside the electronic device. 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS.  1 - 18   . 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. Furthermore, as used herein, a system, a method, an article, a component, a feature, or a sub-feature including at least one of a first option, a second option, or a third option should be understood as referring to a system, a method, an article, a component, a feature, or a sub-feature that can include one of each listed option (e.g., only one of the first option, only one of the second option, or only one of the third option), multiple of a single listed option (e.g., two or more of the first option), two options simultaneously (e.g., one of the first option and one of the second option), or combination thereof (e.g., two of the first option and one of the second option). 
     Turning now to the figures,  FIG.  1    illustrates a schematic view of a device  100  including a housing  102 . The device  100  can include a number of internal components disposed within, or at least partially within, the housing  102 . For example, the device  100  can include a display assembly  104  along with one or more other electronic components  106 ,  108 ,  110 ,  112 . Electronic components  106 - 112  and the display assembly  104  are shown in dotted lines to indicate that these components are not required but merely exemplary of components found in the devices  100  described herein. As such, the number and types of components illustrated in  FIG.  1    as part of device  100  may vary in one or more other examples. Electronic components  106 - 112  may include any number of electronic components, including sensors, batteries, circuitry including sensing circuitry, processors, structural components, and the like. 
     In at least one example, device  100  includes a securement device  114  configured to secure device  100  against an object  116 . In at least one example, securement device  114  includes a strap, a clip, or another securement mechanism. Securement device  114  can be configured to removably secure device  100  against object  116 . In at least one example, object  116  can include a body of a user. In some examples, device  100  may be referred to herein as a wearable device  100 . That is, device  100  can be donned by a user via securement device  114 . Thus, object  116  can include a body part such as an arm, a leg, a wrist, a hand, or a head of a user. 
     In at least one example, specifically where device  100  includes display assembly  104 , securement device  114  can be configured to secure device  100  against object  116  in such a way that display assembly  104  is oriented away from object  116 . In such an example, display assembly  104  can be visible when device  100  is secured to object  116 . In general, and as referred to herein, a “top” or “front” portion, side, or cover of device  100  includes portions thereof that are disposed or oriented away from object  116 , such as portions near display assembly  104  or front cover  118  of device  100 . Conversely, as referred to herein, a “bottom” or “back” portion, side, or cover of device  100  includes portions thereof that are disposed or oriented at or towards object  116  when securement device  114  secures device  100  to object  116 . Such “back” or “bottom” portions of device  100  can include portions at or near back cover  120 . 
     In at least one example, device  100  can also include a structural member  122  disposed at least partially within housing  102  of device  100 . Structural member  122  can be, for example, disposed at or near a back portion of housing  102 , such as at or near a back plate or back cover  120 , in order to provide added strength and structural rigidity to back cover  120  or housing  102  in general. In at least one example, structural member  122  includes materials and/or structure that is stronger or more durable than those of back cover  120 . This can be the case, for example, where back cover  120  is designed and configured to be thin and aesthetically pleasing or using materials that are at least partially transparent to electromagnetic waves and signals for accommodating sensors and antennas sending and receiving signals there through. In such examples, it can be advantageous to include an interior member, such as structural member  122  that adds strength, support, and rigidity to back cover  120 . In this way, advantageously, back cover  120  can be designed for purposes other than just structural purposes, as described above, while device  100  maintains structural integrity and general durability via structural member  122 . 
     One or more other structural members, which are not explicitly shown in  FIG.  1   , can also be included on, around, or within device  100 . Components  106 - 112  can also include one or more structural members serving the same or similar functions as described herein with regard to structural member  122 . However, at least one example includes structural member  122  disposed at or near back cover  120  of device  100  such that structural member  122  is disposed at or near object  116  when back cover  120  or a bottom/back portion of device  100  is secured against object  116 . 
     In at least one example, structural member  122  includes an electronic component  124 . Electronic component  124  can be integrally formed with, and can be a part of, a single structural member  122 . Alternatively, structural member  122  can be separately formed and then joined together with electronic component  124  as a single, unitary piece. In one example, electronic component  124  is a portion of structural member  122  such that electronic component  124  strengthens and provides additional rigidity to structural member  122 . In another example, all of structural member  122  is an electronic component so that electronic component  124  forms all of structural member  122 . Electronic component  124  is indicated in dotted lines in the schematic of  FIG.  1    to indicate the various positions and arrangements of structural member  122  and electronic component  124  noted above. 
     In at least one example, electronic component  124  includes an electrically conductive material that can collect and/or hold or retain an electric charge. Portions of structural member  122  other than electronic component  124  can also include electrically conductive material to serve as part of a charged member for capacitive proximity sensing. In at least one example, only the electronic component  124  portion of structural member  122  includes conductive material so that the rest of structural member  122  includes one or more non-conducting materials. In this way, electronic component  124  can serve as a charging plate for a capacitive sensor. Advantageously, as indicated above and shown in  FIG.  1   , electronic component  124  can be disposed at or near the bottom of device  100 , such as at or near back cover  120 , when securement device  114  secures device  100  to object  116 . 
     In some examples, during use, a bottom or back portion of device  100 , such as back cover  120 , can act as a dielectric material between two charged objects or components, namely object  116  and electronic component  124 . When coupled to a sensing circuit and/or processor within device  100 , such as one or more of the components  106 ,  108 ,  110 , and/or  112  of device  100 , electronic component  124  can then serve as part of a capacitive sensor configured to sense, detect, and/or determine a distance between object  116  and electronic component  124 . Based on the charge collected on electronic component  124  and the known position of electronic component  124  relative to an outside surface of housing  102 , including, for example, a thickness of back cover  120 , the sensing circuit and the processor can determine a distance between the bottom of device  100  and object  116 . Thus, with electronic component  124  configured as a capacitive proximity sensor, the processor can determine whether device  100  is secured to object  116  or not. 
     This positional information of device  100  relative to object  116  can inform any number of other functions of device  100  that depend on proximity to object  116 . These other functions can vary depending on the type of device, some examples of which will be discussed in more detail below. These functions can also vary depending on the type of object  116 . Some examples, here noted generally with regard to object  116  being a human body or body part, include functions regarding initiating active or sleep modes of device  100 , other sensor and data collection including heartbeat monitoring, pulse oximeter readings, body temperature data collection, and the like. 
     Along these lines, one non-limiting example of object  116  includes a human body or a human body part.  FIG.  2    illustrates a user wearing a number of electronic devices  100   a ,  100   b ,  100   c , each of which can be similar to device  100  shown in  FIG.  1   . As illustrated in  FIG.  2   , electronic devices  100   a ,  100   b ,  100   c  can be worn on a user&#39;s arm, including the upper arm and/or lower arm/wrist, or on a user&#39;s head or face, for example over one or more eyes of the user. In addition to the examples of electronic devices  100   a ,  100   b ,  100   c  shown on the body of a user in  FIG.  2   , electronic devices can be worn on other parts of the body, including but not limited to the legs, feet, or torso of the user. In each example, electronic component  124  can be compactly disposed with, or as a part of, structural member  122  to provide the advantages described herein. 
     It will be appreciated that electronic devices according to the schematic of device  100  shown in  FIG.  1    can take a variety of forms and perform a variety of functions. The features, components, arrangements, configurations, examples, and specific advantages thereof, as described herein with regard to the example of  FIG.  1   , can, in isolation or in combination with one another, be applicable to, or combined with, any other feature, component, arrangement, configuration, examples, or combinations thereof, including those shown in subsequent figures and discussed herein. 
     As such,  FIGS.  3 - 16    illustrate examples of an electronic device in the form of a wearable, portable/mobile watch device configured to be worn on the arm or wrist of a user. In particular,  FIG.  3    shows an example of an electronic device  200  (or simply “device”). Device  200  shown in  FIG.  3    is a watch, such as a smartwatch. The smartwatch of  FIG.  3    is merely one representative example of a device that can be used in conjunction with the systems and methods disclosed herein. Device  200  can correspond to any form of wearable electronic device, a portable media player, a media storage device, a portable digital assistant (“PDA”), a tablet computer, a computer, a mobile communication device, a GPS unit, a remote control device, or other electronic device. Device  200  can be referred to as an electronic device, or a consumer device. In some examples, device  200  can include a body  202  that can carry operational components, for example, in an internal volume at least partially defined by a housing of the body. Device  200  can also include a securement component  204 , such as the strap shown or one or more other securement components, such as securement device  114  shown in  FIG.  1   , that can secure device  200  to a body of a user, as desired. Further details of device  200  are provided below with reference to the exploded view of  FIG.  4   . 
     Referring now to  FIG.  4   , device  200  can include body  202  having a housing  206  and a front cover  208  attached to housing  206 . Housing  206  can substantially define at least a portion of an exterior surface of device  200 . Front cover  208  can include a ceramic material such as sapphire, glass, plastic, or any other substantially transparent material, component, or assembly. Front cover  208  can cover or otherwise overlay a display, a camera, a touch sensitive surface such as a touchscreen, or any other component of device  200 . Front cover  208  can define at least a portion of an exterior front surface of device  200 . Together, housing  206  and front cover  208  can substantially define the exterior surface of device  200 . 
     In some examples, housing  206  can include a component, referred to herein as a back cover  210 , that defines at least a portion of an exterior surface of device  200 . Back cover  210  can also be referred to as a back case or a back plate, and can be disposed at a bottom or back of device  200 , which, as noted above, corresponds to a side of device  200  configured to be pressed against or near the user&#39;s body when device  200  is secured thereto during use. Back cover  210  can at least partially define a back surface of device  200 . In at least one example, the back surface of device  200  is disposed opposite the front surface thereof. In some examples, back cover  210  can be attached to one or more other components, such as housing  206 . Back cover  210  can be attached to housing  206  by any method known in the art or developed in the future, such as adhesive bonding, brazing, welding, over-molding, interference fitting, or other securing methods. 
     Back cover  210  can define one or more apertures or through holes. A transparent component  212  can be disposed in or over the one or more apertures such that transparent component  212  extends across or spans the one or more apertures. In some examples, transparent component  212  can be visually transparent and can include any transparent material including a ceramic material, such as sapphire. Transparent component  212  can provide visual and electromagnetic access to an exterior environment for one or more components of device  200 , as described herein. 
     Housing  206  can include one or more features to receive or couple to other components of device  200 . For example, housing  206  can include securement features  214 , such as an indentation or other physical feature, protrusion, or other securement feature to receive one or more securement components  204 , such as the strap shown, and an aperture  216  to receive a button  218 . In at least one example, securement feature  214  together with securement component  204  can be part of a securement device  114 , such as that shown in  FIG.  1   . Alternatively, securement feature  214  can take another form so as to be configured to secure device  200  to the body of a user without any additional securement component  204  received therein. For example, securement feature  214  can include a strap, such as securement component  204  shown, integrally formed or at least permanently fixed to housing  206  without indentations or other physical features of housing  206 . Housing  206  can also define one or more apertures to receive additional input components, such as a dial or a crown  220 . 
     As noted above, device  200  can include back cover  210  that can be attached to housing  206 , for example, opposite display assembly  208 . Back cover  210  can include ceramic, plastic, metal, or combinations thereof. In some examples, back cover  210  can at least partially form or define a back, exterior surface of device  200 . Transparent component  212  can also at least partially form a back, exterior surface of device  200  when coupled with back cover  210 . Transparent component  212  can be transparent to any desired wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation, such as visible light, infrared light, radio waves, or combinations thereof. In some examples, transparent component  212  can allow sensors and/or emitters disposed in housing  206  to communicate with the external environment. In some examples, the transparent component  212  and/or back cover  210  can allow one or more sensors or antennas disposed in an internal volume of housing  206  to emit and/or receive electromagnetic radiation, as described further herein. Together, housing  206 , display assembly  208 , and back cover  210  can substantially define an internal volume and an external, back surface of device  200 . 
     As noted above, electronic devices in accordance with that shown in  FIG.  4    can take a variety of forms and can perform a variety of functions. The features, components, arrangements, configurations, examples, and specific advantages thereof, as described herein with regard to the example of  FIG.  4   , can, in isolation or in combination with one another, be applicable to, or combined with, any other feature, component, arrangement, configuration, examples, or combinations thereof, including those shown in subsequent or previous figures and described herein. Further details of the device  200  are provided below with reference to  FIG.  5   . 
       FIG.  5    illustrates an exploded view of one example of a portion of an electronic device  300 , which can include at least some similar components as those shown and described herein with regard to other devices examples. Device  300  can include additional components and features, which have been omitted from other figures and examples for simplicity. In some examples, a back cover  310  can carry a number of components thereon, such as an electronic component  314 , a logic board  316 , a first sensor or antenna module  318 , and a light directing component  320 , a second sensor or antenna module  332 , and a connection component  324  to electrically connect second sensor or antenna module  332  to one or more components of device  300 , such as logic board  316 . In some examples, one or more of these components, such as a first sensor or antenna module  318  and a second sensor or antenna module  332 , can be disposed over a transparent component  312  situated with back cover  310 . In some examples, a seal or frame element  326  can be disposed between back cover  310  and housing  306  to provide or define a barrier between the internal volume and the ambient environment, as described herein. 
     As noted, various components of device  300 , including first sensor or antenna module  318 , light directing component  320 , and second sensor or antenna module  332 , can be disposed within device  300  such that they can emit and receive electromagnetic signals through transparent component  312  from an internal volume of device  300 . The number and arrangement of these or other sensing/antenna components within device  300  can vary in one or more other examples. One or more other examples of device  300  can include, for example, one or more of audio sensors (e.g., microphones), optical or visual sensors (e.g., cameras, visible light sensors, infrared sensors, or ultraviolet light sensors), proximity sensors, touch sensors, force sensors, mechanical devices (e.g., crowns, switches, buttons, or keys), vibration sensors, orientation sensors, motion sensors (e.g., accelerometers or velocity sensors), location sensors (e.g., global positioning system (GPS) devices), thermal sensors, communication devices (e.g., wired or wireless communication devices), resistive sensors, magnetic sensors, electroactive polymers (EAPs), strain gauges, electrodes, or some combination thereof. Such sensors, such as electrodes or other sensors listed above, can be disposed within an internal volume of device  300  and configured to send and receive electromagnetic waves or other signals through back cover  310  and/or transparent component  312 . In at least one example, sensors listed above and described herein can be configured to determine a user&#39;s pulse, blood oxygen level, temperature, or other biometric data of the user through the back cover  310  and/or transparent component  312 . 
     In some examples, back cover  310  can define a back cover aperture  328  and electronic component  314  can define an electronic component aperture  330 . In addition, device  300  can include a structural member  322  that defines a structural member aperture  334 . When assembled together, each aperture  328 ,  330 ,  334  at least partially aligns with the other apertures and can correspond in position with transparent component  312  such that various sensors and antennas described herein, which can be disposed within device  300 , can emit and receive signals through back cover  310 , electronic component  314 , and corresponding transparent component  312 . In at least one example, apertures  328 ,  330 ,  334  are generally concentric to form a single or combined aperture. Back cover aperture  328  and transparent component  312  are shown as circular, but can be any other shape or size that allows the transmission of electromagnetic energy there through. For example, back cover aperture  328  and transparent component  312  can be substantially rectangular, triangular, or any desired polygonal or polyhedral shape. 
     When device  300  is assembled, structural member  322  and electronic component  314  can be fitted together with back cover  310  to strengthen and add structural rigidity to back cover  310 . In the illustrated example of  FIG.  5   , structural member  322  and electronic component  314  are shown as two separate components, such that when assembled, electronic component  314  is disposed against a top surface  336  of back cover  310  and sandwiched between back cover  310  and structural component  332 . In at least one example, back cover  310  at least partially forms or defines an outer surface of device  300 . Because of the absence of material at back cover aperture  328  and the aesthetic function of back cover  310  as an outer surface of device  300 , it can be advantageous to couple back cover  310  with structural member  322  to improve the strength, rigidity, and durability of back cover  310 . 
     As noted herein, some examples include structural member  322  and electronic component  314  formed as a single, unitary piece or two pieces molded or formed together as one. In at least one example, electronic component  314  can be a coating or a film applied to structural member  322 . In at least one example, electronic component can be compression molded, stamped, or otherwise integrally formed together with structural member  322 . In such cases, the combined structural member  322  and electronic component  314  can be coupled with back cover  310  to provide structural support and rigidity thereto, as noted above. Further details of a subassembly of device  300  are provided below with reference to  FIG.  6   . 
       FIG.  6    illustrates an exploded view of a subassembly of device  300 , including back cover  310  and structural member  322 . A lower portion or surface of structural portion  332  includes electronic component  314 , partially visible in  FIG.  6    through an opening in structural member  322 , and can be contoured such that the lower surface matches or mates with top surface  336  of back cover  310 . Additional details of structural member  322  are provided below with reference to  FIG.  7   . 
       FIG.  7    further illustrates an exploded view of structural member  322  and electronic component  314 . In at least one example, electronic component  314  includes a top surface  338  that is contoured to fit against and mate with a lower surface of structural member  322 . In this way, minimal space is present between electronic component  314  and structural member  322  to conserve space within device  300 . In addition, as noted above, electronic component  314 , either when formed together with structural component  332  as a coating or when formed separately and joined together with structural component  332 , can increase the structural rigidity and strength of structural member  322 , and therefore, back cover  310 . In this way, electronic component  314  can be considered as a portion of structural member  322 , providing structural strength and added rigidity to back cover  310  when assembled together in device  300 . 
       FIG.  8    illustrates another example of a subassembly of an electronic device, including a back cover  410  defining a cover aperture  428  assembled together with a structural member  422  defining a structural member aperture  434 . Again, apertures  428 ,  434  of the various components can be aligned when assembled to form a single aperture through a bottom or a back portion of an electronic device. In at least one example, apertures  428 ,  434  are generally concentric to form a single, combined aperture together. In the illustration of  FIG.  8   , an electronic component associated with structural member  422  is not visible, as it may be faced downward or disposed between structural member  422  and back cover  410 . 
     One will appreciate that a structural member  422  and associate electronic component can be formed and shaped such that a contour thereof compliments, matches, and mates with a contour of a top surface of back cover  410  to form an area of contact between the structural member  422  and the back cover  410 . In this way, when assembled as shown, structural member  422  and electronic component  414  thereof can provide the advantages of other structural members and electronic components described herein, including adding strength and rigidity to back cover  410 . That is, in at least one example, structural member  422  and back cover  410  are configured and disposed within a device such that any forces acting on back cover  410  from outside the device are absorbed or resisted by structural member  422 . In at least one example, structural member  422  and back cover  410  are configured together such that any yielding of one will cause yielding in the other such that back cover  410  and structural member  422  yield together, at least partially, as a single piece to resist forces impinged thereon. 
     Electronic devices in accordance with those shown in  FIGS.  5 - 8    can take a variety of forms and perform a variety of functions. The features, components, arrangements, configurations, examples, and specific advantages thereof, as described herein with regard to the examples of  FIGS.  5 - 7   , can, in isolation or in combination with one another, be applicable to, or combined with, any other feature, component, arrangement, configuration, examples, or combinations thereof, including those shown in subsequent or previous figures and described herein. Additional details of structural member  422  are provided below with reference to  FIGS.  9 A- 9 B . 
       FIGS.  9 A and  9 B  illustrate cross-sectional views of examples of structural member  422  disposed with back cover  410  at the viewing plane indicated by the corresponding arrows in  FIG.  8   . As shown in  FIG.  9 A , structural member  422  includes a lower surface  435  that can be disposed, at least partially, against a top surface  436  of back cover  410 . Also indicated by dotted lines in  FIG.  9 A  is electronic component  414 , which can form a part or all of structural member  422  or, as discussed in some examples herein, be disposed between structural member  422  and back cover  410 , as shown. Some examples can include electronic component  414  forming at least a portion of lower surface  435  of structural member  422 . In examples where electronic component  414  forms all of structural component  422 , structural component  422  can include one or more electrically conductive materials so that all of structural component  422  can collect an electric charge as part of a capacitive proximity sensor. 
     In the illustrated example of  FIG.  9 A , structural member  422  makes contact along at least a portion of top surface of back cover  410 , with structural member  422  being coupled with back cover  410  via one or more attachment means. Such attachment means can include, but are not limited to, adhesives, snaps or clips, friction-fitting, snap-fitting, or any other attachment feature or member configured to hold back cover  410  and structural member  422  together as shown. 
     In at least one example, all or at least a portion of lower surface  435  of structural member matches, or physically compliments, top surface  436  of back cover  410 . That is, in at least one example, a cross-sectional profile or contour of lower surface  435  is the same or similar to at least a portion of the cross-sectional profile or contour of top surface  436  of back cover  410 . In this way, when back cover  410  and structural member  422  are brought together, as shown in  FIG.  9 A , all or at least a substantial portion of bottom surface  435  of structural member  422  contacts top surface  436  of back cover  410 . Thus, structural member  422  is configured to strengthen and/or add rigidity to back cover  410 . 
     For example, when coupled to, or disposed with, back cover  410  as shown, structural member  422  can be configured to absorb or resist at least a portion of the forces and stresses that can act on back cover  410  during use. In at least one example, the cost of material and/or the aesthetic appearance considerations of the design of back cover  410 , which can form at least a portion of the outside of an electronic device, can benefit from added support from structural member  422 , which can be made of stronger or more durable, but less aesthetically appealing materials and shapes (in one non-limiting example) in order to withstand repeated stresses during use. 
     In at least one example, electronic component  414  can be formed with structural member  422  as a coating thereon, or stamped or molded with structural component  422 , as a portion thereof to match or compliment the contour and shape of structural member  422  to form an area of contact between structural member  422  and the back cover  410 . In this way, similar to how structural member  422  strengthens and/or supports back cover  410  as noted above, electronic component  414  adds structural integrity, strength, and durability to the rest of structural member  422 . Thus, electronic component  414  can provide multiple advantages in one piece, including the ability to act as part of a capacitive proximity sensor, as is described in greater detail above and below. 
     In one example, electronic component  414  can be electrically isolated from other components within a device, other than connected circuitry or wires necessary for its function and/or for electrical grounding, between the rest of structural member  422  and back cover  410 . Likewise, in at least one example, all of structural member  422 , including electrical component  414  portion, can be electrically isolated from other components within the device. 
     Electronic devices in accordance with those shown in  FIG.  9 A  can take a variety of forms and can perform a variety of functions. The features, components, arrangements, configurations, examples, and specific advantages thereof, as described herein with regard to the example of  FIG.  9 A , can, in isolation or in combination with one another, be applicable to, or combined with, any other feature, component, arrangement, configuration, examples, or combinations thereof, including those shown in subsequent or previous figures, and as described herein. 
     Alternatively, as shown in  FIG.  9 B , an example of structural member  422  can include discrete contact points between a lower surface  435  thereof and top surface  436  of back cover  410 . For example, as shown, structural member  422  can include one or more ridges  423   a ,  423   b ,  423   c ,  423   d  or other features that serve as contact points between structural member  422  and back cover  410 . In this way, material can be conserved while ridges  423   a - d  serve to maintain the structural rigidity and strength of structural member  42 . 
     In at least one example, only an outer perimeter edge of a structural member  422  couples to back cover  410 , such as at ridges  423   a  and  423   b , to provide added strength thereto. In one or more other examples, only a portion of a structural member  422  contacts back cover  410  but is still coupled to back cover  410  in such a way that a structural member  422  absorbs or resists forces acting on back cover  410 . 
     Electronic devices in accordance with those shown in  FIG.  9 B  can take a variety of forms and perform a variety of functions. The features, components, arrangements, configurations, examples, and specific advantages thereof, as described herein with regard to the example of  FIG.  9 B , can, in isolation or in combination with one another, be applicable to, or combined with, any other feature, component, arrangement, configuration, examples, or combinations thereof, including those shown in subsequent or previous figures and described herein. Additional details of the back cover configuration are provided below with reference to  FIG.  9 C . 
     To better illustrate the configuration of back cover  410  together with a structural member  422  and its associated electronic component  414 ,  FIG.  9 C  illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the subassembly at the plane indicated by the dotted line and arrows in  FIG.  8   . In addition to the assembly of  FIG.  8   , the cross-sectional view of  FIG.  9 C  illustrates transparent component  412  and an object  442 , such as a body of a user, against which back cover  410  and a transparent component  412  can be disposed during use. The cross-sectional view of  FIG.  9 C  also illustrates a portion of a transparent component  412  disposed over back cover aperture  428 , similar to other transparent components shown and described herein. From this cross-sectional view, one can see that in at least one example, an electronic component  414  is disposed with a structural member  422 , between a structural member  422  and back cover  410 , and against a top surface  436  of back cover  410 . One example of electronic component  414  includes a contour that matches or compliments top surface  436  of back cover  410  where the two components contact one another. 
     In examples where electronic component  414  forms all of structural component  422 , structural component  422  can include one or more electrically conductive materials so that all of structural component  422  can collect an electric charge as part of a capacitive proximity sensor. In at least one example, structural member  422  and/or electrical component  414  thereof can be electrically isolated from back cover  410 , housing  206 , or any other component of the device in which electronic component  414  and structural member  422  are disposed. 
     Electronic component  414 , whether formed as a distinct component or as an integral portion or sub-portion of a structural member  422 , can include one or more electrically conductive materials capable of collecting an electric charge. For example, electronic component  414  can include copper, gold, silver, zinc, nickel, platinum, titanium, stainless steel, aluminum, alloys and combinations thereof, and other similarly conductive materials. 
     Additionally, in at least one example, a structural member  422  can also include one or more electronically conductive materials such that a structural member  422  and electronic component form a single piece configured to collect or hold an electric charge. Accordingly, in at least one example, electrical component  414  can act as a charge plate as part of a capacitive sensor. In an alternative example, where a structural member  422 . In at least one example, one or more sensing circuits and processors can be coupled to electronic component  414  and configured to determine the amount of electric charge at or on electronic component  414 . In this way, electronic component  414  can form part of a sensor or sensor module configured to detect the presence of object  442  disposed at, near, or against back cover  410  and transparent component  412 . 
     As the presence of object  442  draws nearer to electronic component  414  during use, a charge associated with object  442 , such as the skin of a user&#39;s wrist, along with any intermediary components, such as back cover  410  and/or transparent component  412  acting as dielectric mediums, affects the electrical charge at or on electronic component  414 . The change in this charge at or on electronic component  414  can be detected, for example, with connected sensor circuitry and one or more processors, to determine the presence or absence of object  442 . In this way, electronic component  414  can be part of a capacitive proximity sensor or a capacitive proximity sensor module configured to determine when a user is wearing or not wearing an electronic device that electronic component  414  is a part of, such as examples of the electronic devices described herein. Such a sensor module can include one or more processors electrically coupled to electronic component  414 , and/or the structural member itself acting as electronic component in examples where structural member  422  includes electrically conductive materials, via one or more components of a sensor circuit. 
     As charge builds up on electronic component  414  and/or support structure  422 , that charge can be measured by the sensor circuit and processor to determine the presence of an object, such as object  442 . For example, a threshold charge value can be set such that when the charge of electronic component  414  and/or structural member  422  changes due to the presence of object  442  at or near back cover  410 , the actual charge on structural member/electrical component  422 / 414  passes or changes above or below the set threshold. The processor can detect this charge, compare it to the set threshold, and determine presence or absence of object  442  accordingly. In at least one example, object  442  is the body/skin of a user. In this example, the processor, in conjunction with the sensing circuit and electronic component  414  and/or structural member  422 , can determine when the user is wearing the device in which structural member  422  and electronic component  414  are disposed. 
     The affect that object  442  has on the charge held/collected by electronic component  414  depends, at least partially, on the distance between object  442  and electronic component  414 . The smaller the distance between object  442  and electronic component  414 , the greater the affect object  442  will have on the charge of electronic component  414 . As shown in  FIG.  9 C , electronic component  414  is shaped to be disposed as close as possible to object  442 . For example, at least a portion of electronic component, such as an inner portion  444  of electronic component  414 , can extend downward towards object  442  at or near aperture  428  of back cover  410 . In this way, electronic component  414  can be configured to minimize a distance between electronic component  414  and object  442 , where possible, depending on the contour, thickness, and shape of components disposed between electronic component  414  and object  442 , such as back cover  410 , transparent component  412 , and an adhesive  438  holding transparent component  412  to back cover  410 . 
     One will appreciate that the shape and configuration, including the specific cross-sectional contour of electronic component  414  shown in  FIG.  9   , can vary from one example to another to match with and accommodate different contours and shapes of other components of an electronic device, such as back cover  410 , structural member  422 , and transparent component  412 . 
     In at least one example, structural member  422  can be disposed against or otherwise coupled with back cover  410  such that a lower surface of electronic component  414  is between about 0.1 mm and 5 mm, or between about 0.5 mm and 4 mm, or between about 0.75 mm and 3 mm, or between about 1 mm and 2 mm, for example about 1.5 mm away from object  442  when object  442  is in direct contact with back cover  410 . In some examples, the distance between electronic component  414  and object  442  can include a thickness of back cover  410 . In at least one example, the distance between electronic component  414  and object  442  can include a thickness of transparent component  412 , or a combination of the thickness of transparent component  412  and back cover  410  where these two components overlap between electronic component  414  and object  442 . Additionally, one or more adhesive layers, such as can be present between the various components, can also add to the distance between electronic component  414  and object  442 . In any case, the processor coupled to electronic component  414  can be configured to detect a change in charge and compare it to a threshold charge to determine the presence of object  442 , such as the user&#39;s body/skin, even when one or more other components of the device are disposed therebetween. 
     Electronic devices in accordance with assemblies and sub-assemblies shown in  FIG.  9 C  can take a variety of forms and perform a variety of functions. The features, components, arrangements, configurations, examples, and specific advantages thereof, as described herein with regard to the example of  FIG.  9 C , can, in isolation or in combination with one another, be applicable to, or combined with, any other feature, component, arrangement, configuration, examples, or combinations thereof, including those shown in subsequent or previous figures and described herein. 
     The affect that object  442  has on the charge held/collected by electronic component  414  also depends, at least partially, on the surface area of electronic component  414 .  FIG.  10    illustrates a top view of a sub assembly  500  of an example of an electronic device, similar to those described elsewhere herein, to illustrate the surface area of an electronic component  514 . 
     As shown, electronic component  514  can be disposed on, near, against, or otherwise coupled with back cover  510  with electronic component aperture  530  corresponding in position with back cover aperture  528 . An outside perimeter edge of structural members  522  is indicated, while not shown in whole, to show a relationship between the position thereof and electronic component  514 .  FIG.  10    also illustrates various components described above, such as various sensor and antenna components disposed above or corresponding to a position of aperture&#39;s  528 ,  530 . In this way, electronic component  514  surrounds a central aperture of the device. In at least one example, electronic device  514  extends outward and away from electronic component aperture  530  but within an outer periphery of device  500  to maximize a surface area within the device. The greater the surface area of electronic component  514 , the bigger the area of the sensed object can be covered thereby, and the more charge electronic component  514  can hold. Thus, increasing the surface area of electronic component  514  increases its capacity to sense object  442  from a greater distance. In at least one example, electronic component  514  includes at least one surface, for example a lower surface corresponding to lower surface  435  shown in  FIGS.  9 A and  9 B , having an area of at least about 100 mm 2 . In at least one example, this surface area can be between about 100 mm 2  and about 500 mm 2 . In at least one example, this surface area can be between about 280 mm 2  and 436 mm 2 , for example about 350 mm 2 . 
     In at least one example, where object  442  includes a user&#39;s body/skin or an object with a similar electrical charge to that of human skin, electronic component  514  is configured in accordance with the surface areas, dimensions, and materials described herein to hold charge suitable for a coupled processor to detect object  442 , as shown in  FIG.  9 C , when object  442  is about 30 mm away or less from electronic component  514 , for example 20 mm, 15 mm, 10 mm, 5 mm, or less than 5 mm away. In at least one example, electronic component  514  is configured to detect object  442  at a distance of at least 30 mm or more. In at least one example, electronic component  514  is configured to detect object  442  at a distance of at least 40 mm away or in some examples at a distance of at least 50 mm away. In some examples, object  442  can be detected without making contact with back cover  410  and/or transparent component  412  but is still present within the detection ranges noted herein. 
     In at least one example, assuming 1.8-Volts of power supply to the electronic component, electronic components described herein, such as electronic component  514 , are configured to detect an object, such as a user&#39;s skin, making contact with back cover  410  or transparent component  412  with a measure capacitance of 3800 femtofarads (fF). At a distance of 5 mm between the user&#39;s skin and back cover  410  or transparent component  412 , electronic components described herein can be configured to measure a capacitance of about 1000 fF. At a 10 mm distance, the measured capacitance can be about 500, at a 15 mm distance, the measured capacitance can be about 300 fF, and at 20 mm, the measured capacitance can be about 150 fF. 
     Along these lines, assuming a power supply to the electronic component  514  of about 1.8-Volts, electronic components described herein, such as electronic component  514 , can be configured to include a charge of 6840 fC when an object, such as a user&#39;s skin, makes contact with back cover  410  or transparent component  412 . When the user&#39;s skin is at a distance of 5 mm away from back cover  410  and/or transparent component  412 , electronic component  514  can be configured to hold a charge of about 1800 fC. In other examples, a distance of 10 mm can correspond to a charge of about 900 fC, a distance of 15 mm can correspond to a charge of about 540 fC, and a distance of 20 mm can correspond to a charge of about 270 fC. 
     Electronic devices in accordance with those shown in  FIG.  10    can take a variety of forms and perform a variety of functions. The features, components, arrangements, configurations, examples, and specific advantages thereof, as described herein with regard to the example of  FIG.  10   , can, in isolation or in combination with one another, be applicable to, or combined with, any other feature, component, arrangement, configuration, examples, or combinations thereof, including those shown in subsequent or previous figures and described herein. 
       FIG.  11    illustrates another top view of an example of an electronic component  614  configured for use as part of a capacitive proximity sensor, similar to one or more other electronic components described herein. And at least one example, electronic component  614  defines a gap or break  646  that extends through electronic component  614 , for example extending from a periphery of electronic component  614  to electronic component aperture  630 . Break  646  keeps electronic component  614  from forming a complete ring around electronic component aperture  630 . In this way, if an electronic device with electronic component  614  also includes one more components configured for inductive charging or other electrical field generating components, electronic component  614  may not be affected or heated by these other components or the electric fields emanating therefrom. 
     The example shown in  FIG.  11    includes features and elements that can be combined with one or more other devices, components, and examples described herein, in whole or in part, without departing from the advantages or general spirit of examples shown in other figures and described herein. 
     In at least one example, electronic devices described herein can include more than one electronic component  614  configured to be part of a capacitive proximity sensor. For example,  FIG.  12    illustrates a dual electrical component configuration including a first electronic component  614   a  and a second electronic component  614   b , which together can at least partially define an electronic component aperture  630 . Similar to other electronic components described herein, dual electronic component  614   a ,  614   b  can be disposed within an electronic device so that electronic component aperture  630  aligns with, for example is generally concentric with, other apertures, as discussed above to form a combined aperture. Two gaps or breaks  646   a ,  646   b  can separate first electronic component  614   a  from second electronic component  614   b  so that first electronic component  614   a  is electrically isolated from second electronic component  614   b.    
     In at least one example, both first and second electronic components  614   a ,  614   b , respectively, can be part of or formed with a single structural member, such as structural member  422  shown in  FIG.  8    and others described herein, yet remain separated by breaks  646   a ,  646   b  as shown in  FIG.  12   . In such an example, first and second electronic components  614   a ,  614   b  can include electrically conductive materials while the rest of structural member  422  of which they can be a part, includes one or more non-conductive materials. In this way, both first and second electronic components  614   a ,  614   b  can be electrically isolated from one another while forming part of the same structural member  422 . Alternatively, in at least one example, each of first and second electronic components  614   a ,  614   b  can be part of separate structural members  422 . 
     In this way, first electronic component  614   a  is electronically isolated from second electronic component  614   b . As such, this dual configuration can be employed within an electronic device to form at least part of two separate capacitive proximity sensors. That is, first electronic component  614   a  can be configured two sense an object, such as the skin of a user&#39;s body or wrist positioned below first electronic component  614   a  and electronic component  614   b  can separately detect a distance from the same or other object situated below second electronic component  614   b . This can be advantageous when, for example, an electronic device such as a wristwatch shown and described herein is fitted loosely on a user&#39;s wrist so that it is tilted or so that a portion of the back or bottom surface of the device is not in complete contact with the user&#39;s body. 
     In such a case, with a wristwatch at a slant or angle relative to the user&#39;s wrist, first electronic component  614   a  and second electronic component  614   b  can be disposed at different distances away from the user&#39;s body while remaining in the same plane as one another within the device. The different distances of each electronic component  614   a ,  614   b  from the body can be extrapolated from the different charge at each electronic component  614   a ,  614   b . Thus, a tilt or inconsistent contact of the device with the user&#39;s body can be detected using the two separate capacitive proximity sensors of the two separate electronic components  614   a ,  614   b , respectively. This information can be valuable to inform the functions of other sensors within the device. For example, if the device including the first and second electronic components  614   a ,  614   b  were loosely worn so that it was tilted or partially separated from the user&#39;s body, other sensors within the device that utilize light transmission or otherwise depend on being in direct contact with the user&#39;s body could adapt accordingly. 
     One or more other examples of electronic devices that include more than two electronic components  614   a ,  614   b , which are configured for capacitive proximity sensing, are explicitly contemplated herein. For example, one or more devices similar to those described herein can include three, four, or more than four electronic components  614  configured for separate capacitive proximity sensing. 
     In at least one example, structural members described herein and associated electronic components can be electrically isolated from other components of the electronic device of which they are a part. In one example, structural members and associated electronic components described herein and configured for capacitive sensing are electronically isolated from other sensors, antennas, housing components, or other components of the device in which they can be disposed. 
     Electronic devices in accordance with those shown in  FIG.  12    can take a variety of forms and perform a variety of functions. The features, components, arrangements, configurations, examples, and specific advantages thereof, as described herein with regard to the example of  FIG.  12   , can, in isolation or in combination with one another, be applicable to, or combined with, any other feature, component, arrangement, configuration, examples, or combinations thereof, including those shown in subsequent or previous figures and described herein. 
     As noted above, at least one example of an electronic device described herein includes one or more processors and/or sensing circuits electrically coupled to electronic components and/or structural members serving as capacitive sensors. Along these lines,  FIG.  13    illustrates and exploded view of a sub assembly  700  of an electronic device, including structural member  722 , back cover  710 , and a variety of other connection and or electronic coupling components. These other components can include, for example, one or more electrical spring contacts  748   a ,  748   b ,  748   c ,  748   d  and one or more flex assemblies  750  which can also include one or more sensing circuitry components and or processor assemblies or subassemblies  752 . These various spring contacts  748   a - d  and flex assembly  750  can be disposed within an electronic device to make contact with the electronic component of structural member  722  or other portion of structural member  722  configured to hold or collect electronic charge as part of a capacitive sensor. 
     In one particular example of a device sub assembly  800  shown in  FIG.  14   , an electrically conductive spring contact  848  extends through an opening in structural member  822  to make contact with a lower surface thereof or an electronic component thereof serving as part of the capacitive proximity sensor. Along these lines,  FIG.  15    illustrates cross-sectional view of the assembly shown in  FIG.  14    where spring contact  848  extends down through structural member  822  to make electrical contact with electronic components  814 . 
     Similarly,  FIG.  16    illustrates a sub assembly  900  that includes a spring contact  948  as well as a flex assembly  950  configured to make electrical contact with an electronic component of structural member  922  coupled with or disposed against back cover  910 .  FIG.  17    shows a cross-sectional view of sub assembly  900  shown in  FIG.  16    to illustrate electronic component  914  sandwiched between structural member  922  and back cover  910 . Electrical contact can be made with electronic component  914  via spring contact  948  and/or flex assembly  950  and then coupled with one more sensing circuits and or processors elsewhere in the device. 
     As illustrated in  FIGS.  16  and  17   , more than one type of electrical contact can be employed within the device, as part of sub assembly  900 , too measure or read the electrical charge of electronic component  914  and communicate to one or more sensor circuits and/or processors. Additionally, or alternatively, electronic component  914 , or any other electronic component described herein, which can be configured as part of a capacitive sensor, can also be used as an antenna. In such an example, one electrical contact, such as spring contact  948 , can be configured as part of a capacitive sensing module or circuit while a second electrical contact, such as flex assembly  950 , can be configured to make contact with electronic component  914  as a part of an antenna module or circuit. 
     The various examples of electronic devices shown separately in accordance with  FIGS.  13 - 17    can take a variety of forms and perform a variety of functions. The features, components, arrangements, configurations, examples, and specific advantages thereof, as described herein with regard to the separate examples of  FIGS.  13 - 17   , can, in isolation or in combination with one another, be applicable to, or combined with, any other feature, component, arrangement, configuration, examples, or combinations thereof, including those shown in subsequent or previous figures and described herein. 
     One or more additional processors can also be configured within the electronic device to multiplex between multiple functionalities of the various circuitry and contacts coupled with electronic component  914 . For example, a central processor or other computing device can switch from receiving an electrical charge measurement from electronic component  914  as part of a capacitive sensor functionality and receiving or sending a radio frequency signal using electronic component  914  as part of an antenna functionality. 
     To further illustrate an example of this multiplexing of electronic component  914 ,  FIG.  18    illustrates a schematic view of an electronic component  1014 , which can be similar to one or more other electronic components described herein, coupled to one or more circuits, processors, electrical contacts, and/or other electronic components configured to perform capacitive sensing or antenna functions using electronic component  1014 . In at least one example, an antenna module  1052 , which can include one more processors, electrical contacts, or other antenna circuitry, can be electrically coupled to electronic component  1014 . Additionally, a separate capacitive proximity sensing module  1054 , which can include the same or separate processors, circuitry, and electrical connections as antenna module  1054 , can be electrically coupled to electronic component  1014  and configured as part of a capacitive proximity sensing function of electronic component  1014 . 
     In addition, at least one example includes a processor or other central computing module  1056  configured to switch between antenna module  1052  and capacitive proximity sensing module  1054 . In practice, switching between modules  1052  and  1054  can occur rapidly so that in practice, electronic component  1014  can serve as an antenna and a capacitor proximity sensor simultaneously from the perspective of the user during use. 
       FIG.  19    illustrates a circuit diagram of another example of a multiplexing electronic component  1014  configured to perform both capacitive sensing and RF antenna functions. In one example, electronic component  1014  can include first and second electronic components  1014   a ,  1014   b , or sub-components, similar to electronic components  614   a  and  614   b  shown in  FIG.  12   . In the illustrated example of  FIG.  19   , electronic component  1014  can be electrically connected to sensing module  1054  and radio  1052 , as shown. The circuit of  FIG.  19    also includes RF blocking filters  1058   a ,  1058   b , first RF switch  1060 , and second RF switch  1062 , with second RF switch  1062  including RF Input/Output Connection/Signal  1064  and Radio/Sense Control  1066  connections to radio  1052 . In one example, Radio/Sense Control  1066  can include a coexistence signal connection  1068  between radio  1052  and module  1054 . In addition, radio  1052  can include RF front end and transceiver components. In at least one example, RF blocking filters  1058   a ,  1058   b  can guard sensing module  1054  from excessive RF voltages generated by radio  1052   
     While the illustrated example of  FIG.  19    illustrates two electronic sub-components  1014   a ,  1014   b  as part of a “two-pixel” multiplexing electronic component  1014 , one or more other examples can include electronic components  1014  having additional pixels, including three-pixel components, four-pixel components, five-pixel components, or electronic components  1014  having six or more pixels or sub-components, allowing for further functionalities and multiplexing capabilities. 
     In at least one example, RF blocking filters  1058   a ,  1058   b  can guard sensing module  1054  from excessive RF voltages generated by radio  1052 . Also, RF blocking filters  1058   a ,  1058   b  can protect sensing module  1054  from de-tuning electronic component  1014  and sub-components  1014   a ,  1014   b  thereof. In at least one example, first RF switch  1060  can be flipped to combine electronic sub-components  1014   a ,  1014   b  to function as a single electronic component  1014 , which may be needed for low-band performance. First RF switch  1060  allows first and second electronic components  1014   a  and  1014   b  to act as one antenna element (by shorting) or as two separate capacitive sense elements (by opening). Second RF switch  1062  can isolate RF Input/Output  1064  when sensing module  1054  is sensing. 
     A coexistence signal connection  1068 , which can be used for controlling second RF switch  1062 , can also be used to coordinate the sensing and RF antenna operation of electronic component  1014 . In one example, radio  1052  can control signal connections  1066  and  1068 , for example connection  1066  can call out a signal that controls RF switch  1060 , and module  1054  can listen when radio  1052  is not receiving/transmitting while scanning. In at least one example, one or more other communication channels may be needed from a processor (not shown) to indicate a system state to the two systems (sensing/RF antenna). 
     The elements and circuit components of multiplexing electronic component  1014  shown in  FIG.  19   , including the arrangement thereof, can include other electronic components and arrangements in one or more other examples. The components, configurations, and advantages of multiplexing component  1014  and the system shown in  FIG.  19    can be included alone or in any combination with other embodiments of electronic components and associated systems shown in the other figures and described herein. In addition, the components, configuration, and advantages of electronic components and associated systems shown and described with reference to other figures can be included alone or in any combination with electronic component  1014  and associated circuit components shown in  FIG.  19    and described herein. 
     Any number or variety of components in any of the configurations described herein can be included in an electronic device, as described herein. The components can include any combination of the features described herein and can be arranged in any of the various configurations described herein. The structure and arrangement of components of a device, as well as the concepts regarding the use and operation of the components can apply not only to the specific examples discussed herein, but to any number of embodiments in any combination. Various examples of electronic devices and electronic device components including having various features in various arrangements are described below, with reference to  FIGS.  3 - 4   . 
     To the extent applicable to the present technology, gathering and use of data available from various sources can be used to improve the delivery to users of invitational content or any other content that may be of interest to them. The present disclosure contemplates that in some instances, this gathered data may include personal information data that uniquely identifies or can be used to contact or locate a specific person. Such personal information data can include demographic data, location-based data, telephone numbers, email addresses, TWITTER® ID&#39;s, home addresses, data or records relating to a user&#39;s health or level of fitness (e.g., vital signs measurements, medication information, exercise information), date of birth, or any other identifying or personal information. 
     The present disclosure recognizes that the use of such personal information data, in the present technology, can be used to the benefit of users. For example, the personal information data can be used to deliver targeted content that is of greater interest to the user. Accordingly, use of such personal information data enables users to calculated control of the delivered content. Further, other uses for personal information data that benefit the user are also contemplated by the present disclosure. For instance, health and fitness data may be used to provide insights into a user&#39;s general wellness, or may be used as positive feedback to individuals using technology to pursue wellness goals. 
     The present disclosure contemplates that the entities responsible for the collection, analysis, disclosure, transfer, storage, or other use of such personal information data will comply with well-established privacy policies and/or privacy practices. In particular, such entities should implement and consistently use privacy policies and practices that are generally recognized as meeting or exceeding industry or governmental requirements for maintaining personal information data private and secure. Such policies should be easily accessible by users, and should be updated as the collection and/or use of data changes. Personal information from users should be collected for legitimate and reasonable uses of the entity and not shared or sold outside of those legitimate uses. Further, such collection/sharing should occur after receiving the informed consent of the users. Additionally, such entities should consider taking any needed steps for safeguarding and securing access to such personal information data and ensuring that others with access to the personal information data adhere to their privacy policies and procedures. Further, such entities can subject themselves to evaluation by third parties to certify their adherence to widely accepted privacy policies and practices. In addition, policies and practices should be adapted for the particular types of personal information data being collected and/or accessed and adapted to applicable laws and standards, including jurisdiction-specific considerations. For instance, in the US, collection of or access to certain health data may be governed by federal and/or state laws, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA); whereas health data in other countries may be subject to other regulations and policies and should be handled accordingly. Hence different privacy practices should be maintained for different personal data types in each country. 
     Despite the foregoing, the present disclosure also contemplates embodiments in which users selectively block the use of, or access to, personal information data. That is, the present disclosure contemplates that hardware and/or software elements can be provided to prevent or block access to such personal information data. For example, in the case of advertisement delivery services, the present technology can be configured to allow users to select to “opt in” or “opt out” of participation in the collection of personal information data during registration for services or anytime thereafter. In another example, users can select not to provide mood-associated data for targeted content delivery services. In yet another example, users can select to limit the length of time mood-associated data is maintained or entirely prohibit the development of a baseline mood profile. In addition to providing “opt in” and “opt out” options, the present disclosure contemplates providing notifications relating to the access or use of personal information. For instance, a user may be notified upon downloading an app that their personal information data will be accessed and then reminded again just before personal information data is accessed by the app. 
     Moreover, it is the intent of the present disclosure that personal information data should be managed and handled in a way to minimize risks of unintentional or unauthorized access or use. Risk can be minimized by limiting the collection of data and deleting data once it is no longer needed. In addition, and when applicable, including in certain health related applications, data de-identification can be used to protect a user&#39;s privacy. De-identification may be facilitated, when appropriate, by removing specific identifiers (e.g., date of birth, etc.), controlling the amount or specificity of data stored (e.g., collecting location data a city level rather than at an address level), controlling how data is stored (e.g., aggregating data across users), and/or other methods. 
     Therefore, although the present disclosure broadly covers use of personal information data to implement one or more various disclosed embodiments, the present disclosure also contemplates that the various embodiments can also be implemented without the need for accessing such personal information data. That is, the various embodiments of the present technology are not rendered inoperable due to the lack of all or a portion of such personal information data. For example, content can be selected and delivered to users by inferring preferences based on non-personal information data or a bare minimum amount of personal information, such as the content being requested by the device associated with a user, other non-personal information available to the content delivery services, or publicly available information. 
     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 target 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: 20210830
Publication Date: 20240702
Grant Date: 20240702
Priority Date: 20210830
Inventors: ATURA BUSHNELL, TYLER S.
KOEBERL, ANDREAS J.
WINOKUR, ERIC S.
SCHWENDEMAN, MATTHEW J.
JOHNSON, TIMOTHY M.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H03K17/955", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K2017/9613", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K2017/9613", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K2217/958", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/044", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K17/955", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K2017/9613", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K17/955", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/044", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 85286328