PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-9848690-B2
Application Number: US-201514696452-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: High strength retention loops for wearable bands

Abstract:
A high strength retention loops for a wearable band of an electronic device and method of forming the retention loop. The retention loop of the wearable band may include a bottom layer, a tensile member encircling the bottom layer, and a top layer positioned adjacent to and substantially encircling the bottom layer and the tensile member. A distinct retention loop may include a single piece of folded leather material having an exterior portion, and two interior portions positioned adjacent the outer portion. The distinct retention loop may also include a tensile member positioned between the exterior portion and the two interior portions.

Claims:
We claim: 
     
       1. A retention loop for a watch band, the retention loop comprising:
 a bottom layer comprising:
 a first reduced thickness portion positioned at a first end of the bottom layer; and 
 a second reduced thickness portion positioned at a second end of the bottom layer and opposite the first end, the second reduced thickness portion coupled to the first reduced thickness portion to maintain a uniform thickness of the bottom layer; 
 
 a tensile member encircling the bottom layer; and 
 a top layer encircling the bottom layer and the tensile member, the top layer comprising a seam positioned opposite the first reduced thickness portion and the second reduced thickness portion of the bottom layer. 
 
     
     
       2. The retention loop of  claim 1 , wherein the bottom layer is formed from a leather material, and wherein the top layer is formed from the leather material. 
     
     
       3. The retention loop of  claim 1 , wherein the tensile member is formed from a non-woven material. 
     
     
       4. The retention loop of  claim 3 , wherein the tensile member is formed from one of:
 a polyester material, or a urethane material. 
 
     
     
       5. The retention loop of  claim 1 , wherein the first reduced thickness portion is formed on a first surface of the bottom layer, and
 wherein the second reduced thickness portion is formed on a second surface of the bottom layer and opposite the first surface. 
 
     
     
       6. The retention loop of  claim 1 , wherein the tensile member overlaps itself directly above the first and second reduced thickness portions creating two distinct overlapping layers. 
     
     
       7. The retention loop of  claim 1 , wherein the tensile member is coupled to the bottom layer. 
     
     
       8. The retention loop of  claim 1 , wherein the tensile member further comprises a plurality of score lines formed partially through the tensile member. 
     
     
       9. The retention loop of  claim 1  further comprising exposed ends formed in:
 the bottom layer; 
 the tensile member; and 
 the top layer. 
 
     
     
       10. The retention loop of  claim 9 , wherein the exposed ends are at least one of sanded, or painted. 
     
     
       11. A retention loop for a watch band, the retention loop comprising:
 a bottom layer; 
 a tensile member encircling the bottom layer, wherein the tensile member overlaps itself, creating two distinct layers; and 
 a top layer encircling the bottom layer and the tensile member, 
 wherein the tensile member further comprises a plurality of score lines formed partially through the tensile member. 
 
     
     
       12. The retention loop of  claim 11 , wherein the bottom layer comprises:
 a first reduced thickness portion positioned at a first end of the bottom layer; and 
 a second reduced thickness portion positioned at a second end of the bottom layer and opposite the first end, the second reduced thickness portion coupled to the first reduced thickness portion to maintain a uniform thickness of the bottom layer.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a nonprovisional patent application of and claims the benefit to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/044,910, filed Sep. 2, 2014 and titled “High Strength Retention Loops for Wearable Bands,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The disclosure relates generally to electronic devices, and more particularly to retention loops for a wearable band of an electronic device and a method of forming the retention loops for the wearable band. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Conventional wearable electronic devices include bands that couple the electronic device to a user or a desired object for holding the electronic device (e.g., bicycle handlebar). For example, a conventional wristwatch typically includes a band that attaches the watch to a user&#39;s wrist. There are many varieties of conventional wearable bands for watches including, but not limited to, elastic bands, flexible bands including buckles, and metal bands including metal clasp. However, each of these conventional bands may include negative aspects, and may undesirably fail prior to the end of the expected operational life of the wearable electronic device. 
     For example, the conventional elastic band may lose its elastic properties over time, and may become too big for a user&#39;s wrist, which may result in the electronic device unexpectedly slipping from a user&#39;s wrist and being damaged. In another example, the material forming the flexible bands may tear or deteriorate over time due to normal use over the operational life of the band and/or the concentrated force applied at the hole of the flexible band by the tongue of the buckle. The metal bands including the metal clasp may include a plurality of components all coupled together, which may fail, become uncoupled or malfunction over time. That is, the plurality of components forming the metal band may become damaged, not function properly over time, or may become uncoupled, rendering the metal band incapable of attaching the wearable electronic device to a user. When a conventional wearable band fails and/or is incapable of securely attaching the electronic device to a user&#39;s wrist, the band needs to be replaced and/or the wearable electronic device may be susceptible to damage. 
     Additionally, conventional wearable bands include retention loops for securing free ends of the wearable band, and/or prevent the free ends from undesirably contacting or catching other objects. When the free end of the conventional wearable band contacts or is caught on other objects the wearable band may come undone or uncoupled, which may result in the wearable electronic device being undesirably uncoupled from a user. These conventional retention loops may also be formed from a plurality of materials, and may undergo a plurality of processes for forming just a small portion of the conventional wearable band. Similar to the wearable band itself, with an increase in the amount of materials forming the retention loop, the risk of failure and/or damage to the retention loop may increase over the operational life of the conventional wearable band including the retention loop. Additionally, as a result of the multiple materials used to form conventional retention loops, the cost, and/or manufacture time may increase for the conventional wearable band including the retention loop. To decrease cost and/or manufacture time, conventional retention loops may be made using simple manufacturing processes. However, this may result in less desirable aesthetic and/or visually appealing (e.g., exposed threads, unfinished ends, distinguishable layers of material, and the like) retention loops. 
     SUMMARY 
     Generally, embodiments discussed herein are related to retention loops for a wearable band of an electronic device and a method of forming the retention loops for the wearable band. The retention loops may be formed using a tensile member as an intermediate layer to provide added stiffness, rigidity and/or structure to the retention loop. Additionally, the retention loops may be formed from a plurality of layers, including multiple layers of leather material and/or the tensile member, in such a way to make the retention loop strong, as well as, aesthetically appealing to a user of the wearable band. The retention loops may be formed using methods to provide both high tensile strength, a visually appealing retention loop (e.g., a single seam visible to a user). 
     One embodiment may include a retention loop for a wearable band. The retention loop may include a bottom layer. The bottom layer may comprise a first reduced thickness portion positioned at a first end of the bottom layer, and a second reduced thickness portion positioned at a second end of the bottom layer and opposite the first end. The second reduced thickness portion may be coupled to the first reduced thickness portion to maintain a uniform thickness of the bottom layer. The retention loop may also comprise a tensile member encircling the bottom layer, and a top layer positioned adjacent to and substantially encircling the bottom layer and the tensile member. 
     Another embodiment may include a method of forming a plurality of retention loops for a wearable band. The method may include wrapping a bottom layer of material around a mandrel to form an inner loop, coupling a tensile member around the bottom layer of material, and inserting the bottom layer of material and the tensile member into an opening formed in a top layer of material. The method may also include coupling the top layer of material to the tensile member and the bottom layer of material to form a loop assembly, and cutting through the loop assembly. 
     A further embodiment may include a distinct retention loop for a wearable band. The retention loop may include a tensile member, and a single piece of folded leather material encircling the tensile member. The single piece of folded leather material may comprise an exterior portion, and two interior foldable portions positioned adjacent the outer portion. Each of the two interior foldable portions may be folded over a portion of the tensile member to cover the tensile member. 
     An additional embodiment may include a method of forming an individual retention loop for a wearable band. The method may include stitching a single piece of leather material proximate two joined ends of the leather material using a thread, cutting a portion of selvedge material formed adjacent the thread to form an exterior portion and two interior foldable portions of the single piece of leather material, and fixing a centralized selvedge portion of the selvedge material to the single piece of leather material. The centralized selvedge portion defines the exterior portion of the single piece of leather material. The method may also include wrapping a tensile member around the single piece of leather material and the centralized selvedge portion, folding the two interior foldable portions of the single piece of leather material over the tensile member, and turning the single piece of leather material and the tensile member inside out to expose the outer portion of the single piece of leather material. 
    
    
     
       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  depicts an illustrative perspective view of a wearable electronic device including a portion of a wearable band, according to embodiments of the invention. 
         FIG. 2  shows an illustrative top view of the wearable band as shown in  FIG. 1 , according to embodiments of the invention. 
         FIG. 3  shows an illustrative top view of a wearable band, according to further embodiments of the invention. 
         FIG. 4  shows an enlarged cross-section side view of a portion of wearable band for the electronic device including a tensile member taken along line  4 - 4  of  FIG. 2 , according to embodiments of the invention. 
         FIG. 5  shows an enlarged front cross-section view of a retention loop for a wearable band of an electronic device taken along line  5 - 5  of  FIG. 2 , according to embodiments of the invention. 
         FIGS. 6A-6D  show an enlarged front view of a leather material undergoing a process for forming a retention loop for a wearable band of an electronic device, according to embodiments of the invention. 
         FIG. 7A  shows an illustrative perspective view of a bottom layer undergoing processes for forming a retention loop, according to embodiments. 
         FIG. 7B  shows an illustrative perspective view of a mandrel utilized in forming a retention loop, according to embodiments. 
         FIGS. 7C and 7D  show illustrative perspective views of the bottom layer of  FIG. 7A  and the mandrel of  FIG. 7B  undergoing processes for forming a retention loop, according to embodiments. 
         FIG. 7E  shows an illustrative perspective view of a tensile member utilized in forming a retention loop, according to embodiments. 
         FIGS. 7F and 7G  shows an illustrative perspective view of the bottom layer  FIG. 7A , the mandrel of  FIG. 7B , and the tensile member of  FIG. 7E  undergoing processes for forming a retention loop, according to embodiments. 
         FIGS. 7H-7J  show an illustrative perspective view of the bottom layer  FIG. 7A , the mandrel of  FIG. 7B , the tensile member of  FIG. 7E , and a top layer undergoing processes for forming a retention loop, according to embodiments. 
         FIG. 7K  shows an illustrative perspective view of a retention loop for a wearable band, according to embodiments. 
         FIG. 8  shows a flow chart illustrating a method of forming a plurality of retention loops for a wearable band. This method may form the retention loops as shown in  FIGS. 7A-7K . 
         FIG. 9A  shows an illustrative front view of a single piece of material utilized in forming a retention loop, according to further embodiments. 
         FIG. 9B  shows an illustrative side view of the single piece of material of  FIG. 9A , according to further embodiments. 
         FIG. 9C  shows an illustrative side view of the single piece of material of  FIGS. 9A and 9B  undergoing processes for forming a retention loop, according to further embodiments. 
         FIG. 9D  shows an illustrative side view of the single piece of material of  FIGS. 9A and 9B  undergoing processes for forming a retention loop, according to further embodiments. 
         FIG. 9E  shows an illustrative top view of the single piece of material of  FIG. 9D , according to embodiments. 
         FIG. 9F  shows an illustrative side view of the single piece of material of  FIG. 9D  undergoing processes for forming a retention loop, according to further embodiments. 
         FIG. 9G  shows an illustrative front view of the single piece of material of  FIG. 9F , according to embodiments. 
         FIGS. 9H-9J  show illustrative side views of the single piece of material of  FIG. 9F  undergoing processes for forming a retention loop, according to further embodiments. 
         FIGS. 9K and 9L  show illustrative perspective views of the single piece of material of  FIG. 9J  undergoing processes for forming a retention loop, according to further embodiments. 
         FIG. 9M  shows an cross-section front view of a retention loop taken along line  9 M- 9 M of  FIG. 9L , according to embodiments. 
         FIG. 10  shows a flow chart illustrating a method of forming a single retention loop for a wearable band. This method may form the retention loop as shown in  FIGS. 9A-9M . 
     
    
    
     It is noted that the drawings of the invention are not necessarily to scale. The drawings are intended to depict only typical aspects of the invention, and therefore should not be considered as limiting the scope of the invention. In the drawings, like numbering represents like elements between the drawings. 
     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 following disclosure relates generally to an electronic device, and more particularly, to retention loops for a wearable band of an electronic device and a method of forming the retention loops for the wearable band. 
     The retention loops may be formed using a tensile member as an intermediate layer to provide added stiffness, rigidity and/or structure to the retention loop. Additionally, the retention loops may be formed from a plurality of layers, including multiple layers of leather material and/or the tensile member, in such a way to make the retention loop strong, as well as, aesthetically appealing to a user of the wearable band. The retention loops may be formed using methods to provide both high tensile strength, a visually appealing retention loop (e.g., a single seam visible to a user). 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS. 1-10 . 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. 
       FIG. 1  shows an illustrative perspective view of a portable or wearable electronic device  100 , according to embodiments. Wearable electronic device  100 , as shown in  FIG. 1 , may be configured to provide health-related information or data such as, but not limited to, heart rate data, blood pressure data, temperature data, oxygen level data, diet/nutrition information, medical reminders, health-related tips or information, or other health-related data. The wearable electronic device may optionally convey the health-related information to a separate electronic device such as a tablet computing device, phone, personal digital assistant, computer, and so on. In addition, wearable electronic device  100  may provide additional information, such as but not limited to, time, date, health, statuses or externally connected or communicating devices and/or software executing on such devices, messages, video, operating commands, and so forth (and may receive any of the foregoing from an external device), in addition to communications. 
     Wearable electronic device  100  may include a housing  102  at least partially surrounding a display  104  and one or more buttons  106  or input devices. The housing  102  may form an outer surface or partial outer surface and protective case for the internal components of wearable electronic device  100 , and may at least partially surround the display  104 . The housing  102  may be formed of one or more components operably connected together, such as a front piece and a back piece. Alternatively, the housing  102  may be formed of a single piece operably connected to the display  104 . Housing  102  may include a plurality of distinct materials including, but not limited to: corundum, commonly referred to as sapphire, metal, glass or plastic. Additionally, housing  102  may include a decorative and/or coating layer that be disposed on the outer and/or or inner surface of housing  102 . The decorative layer and/or coating layer may be disposed on the surface(s) of housing  102  to protect the enclosure and/or provide a decorative feature (e.g., exterior color) for electronic device  100 . 
     Housing  102  may also include recesses  108  formed on opposite ends to connect a wearable band  110  (partially shown in  FIG. 1 ) to wearable electronic device  100 . As shown in  FIG. 1 , and discussed herein, wearable band  110  may include a first strap portion  112  coupled to housing  102 , and a second strap portion  118  positioned opposite first strap portion  112  and coupled to housing  102 . Wearable band  110 , and specifically first strap portion  112  and second strap portion  118 , may be used to secure wearable electronic device  100  to a user, or any other object capable of receiving wearable electronic device  100 . In a non-limiting example where wearable electronic device  100  includes a smart watch, wearable band  110  may secure the watch to a user&#39;s wrist. In other non-limiting examples, wearable electronic device  100  may be secured to another part of a user&#39;s body. Additionally in other non-limiting examples discussed herein, wearable band  110  may be formed as a single component coupled to housing  102  or as two distinct components coupled to opposite ends of housing  102 . 
     Display  104  may be implemented with any suitable technology, including, but not limited to, a multi-touch sensing touchscreen that uses liquid crystal display (LCD) technology, light emitting diode (LED) technology, organic light-emitting display (OLED) technology, organic electroluminescence (OEL) technology, or another type of display technology. 
     Button  106  may include any suitable input/output (I/O) device for electronic device  100 . Specifically, button  106  may include an actuation component in electronic and/or mechanical communication with the internal components of electronic device  100 , to provide user input and/or allow the user to interact with the various functions of electronic device  100 . In an embodiment, button  106  may be configured as a single component surrounded by housing  102 . Alternatively, button  106  may include a plurality of components, including an actuation component, in mechanical/electrical communication with one another and/or internal component of electronic device  100 . 
       FIG. 2  shows an illustrative top view of wearable band  110  of  FIG. 1 . Specifically,  FIG. 2  may show first strap portion  112  and second strap portion  118  forming wearable band  110  for wearable electronic device  100 . First strap portion  112  and second strap portion  118  may be formed from substantially the same material or any material including similar flexible and/or deformable characteristics. In a non-limiting example, first strap portion  112  and second strap portion  118  may be formed from a leather material. 
     First strap portion  112  and second strap portion  118  may be formed from a top layer  120  and a bottom layer  122  (see,  FIG. 4 ) of material (e.g., leather) bonded or coupled to one another. First strap portion  112  and second strap portion  118  may be formed using a single piece of material or multiple pieces of material, where first strap portion  112  and second strap portion  118  include top layer  120  and bottom layer  122 . In a non-limiting example, each of first strap portion  112  and second strap portion  118  may be formed from single, distinct pieces of material. The single piece of material may be folded over itself to form top layer  120  and bottom layer  122 , and the folded portion may be positioned at a housing end  124  (e.g., second strap portion  118 ). Housing end  124  of first strap portion  112  (not shown) and/or second strap portion  118  may be coupled to and/or positioned within recess  108  to couple wearable band  110 , and specifically first strap portion  112  and second strap portion  118 , to housing  102  of wearable electronic device  100  (see,  FIG. 1 ). In another non-limiting example, first strap portion  112  and second strap portion  118  may be formed from multiple pieces of material, where each distinct piece of material forms top layer  120  or bottom layer  122  for first strap portion  112  and/or second strap portion  118 . In an additional non-limiting example discussed herein, wearable band  110  may be formed from a single piece of material, such that first strap portion  112  and second strap portion  118  are integrally formed. 
     First strap portion  112  and second strap portion  118  may include a coupling component  126  (shown in phantom) positioned substantially around and/or adjacent to the perimeter of the respective strap portions. Coupling component  126  may include an suitable material or technique that may be used to couple top layer  120  and bottom layer  122  to one another to form first strap portion  112  and/or second strap portion  118 . Additionally, and as discussed herein, coupling component  126  may be utilized within first strap portion  112  and/or second strap portion  118  to ensure internal components of the respective straps remain within and/or between top layer  120  and bottom layer  122 . In a non-limiting example, coupling component  126  may include an adhesive or bonding adjacent positioned adjacent the perimeter of first strap portion  112  and/or second strap portion  118  to bond top layer  120  to bottom layer  122 . In another non-limiting example, coupling component  126  may include a thread that may pass through top layer  120  and bottom layer  122  around the perimeter of first strap portion  112  and/or second strap portion  118  to couple top layer  120  to bottom layer  122 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , first strap portion  112  may include a loop  128  positioned at an end  130  adjacent a second strap portion  118 . A free end  132  of second strap portion  118  may be feed and/or positioned through opening  134  of loop  128 , and a portion of second strap portion  118  may be folded back on itself to couple wearable electronic device  100  (see,  FIG. 1 ) to a user or a desired object. The folded portion of second strap portion  118  may be coupled to the remaining portion of second strap portion  118  using any suitable technique including, but not limited to, magnets embedded into second strap portion  118 , hook-and-loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro®) position on at least a portion of second strap portion  118 , and the like. In a non-limiting example, loop  128  may be formed from a distinct material or component that may be coupled to the material forming first strap portion  112  (see,  FIG. 2 ). 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , wearable band  110  may also include a retention loop  136  positioned on and/or substantially around second strap portion  118 . As discussed herein, retention loop  135  may aid in securing free end  132  and/or a portion of second strap portion  118  to the remainder of second strap portion  118  when free end  132  is positioned through loop  128  and folded back onto the remaining portion of second strap portion  118 . Retention loop  136  may form an opening (not shown) located between second strap portion  118  of wearable band  110  and retention loop  136 , where the opening may receive free end  132  and/or a portion of second strap portion  118 . In a non-limiting example, retention loop  135  may be coupled to and/or fixed in a predetermined position of second strap portion  118 . In another non-limiting example, retention loop  135  may surround second strap portion  118 , and may be free to move over the length of second strap portion  118  of wearable band  110 . 
     Although shown herein as including two distinct straps (e.g., first strap portion  112 , second strap portion  118 ), wearable band  110  may be formed from a single strap. In a non-limiting example shown in  FIG. 3 , wearable band  210  may be formed as a single strap, such that first strap portion  212  and second strap portion  218  may be integrally formed. It is understood that similarly named components or similarly numbered components may function in a substantially similar fashion, may include similar materials and/or may include similar interactions with other components. Redundant explanation of these components has been omitted for clarity. 
     As discussed herein, wearable band  210  may be formed from a single piece of material. In a non-limiting example, wearable band  210  may be formed from a single piece of material (e.g., leather), where top layer  220  is folded over and positioned above bottom layer (not shown) to form wearable band  210 . Where wearable band  210  is formed from a single piece of material, the fold in the material to differentiate between top layer  220  and bottom layer  222  may be positioned at end  230  including buckle clasp  238 . The single piece of material forming wearable band  210  may be feed through opening  234  of buckle clasp  238 , and buckle clasp  238  may be partially positioned between top layer  220  and bottom layer  222 , and secured at end  230  of wearable band  210 . In another non-limiting example, not shown, single strap wearable band  210  may be formed from two pieces of material, where each piece of material forms a respective layer (e.g., top, bottom) of wearable band  210 . 
     Wearable band  210 , as shown in  FIG. 3 , may couple wearable electronic device  100  (see,  FIG. 1 ) to a user by utilizing buckle clasp  238 . In a non-limiting example, opening  234  of buckle clasp  238  may receive free end  232  and/or a portion of second strap portion  228 , and a tongue  240  of buckle clasp  238  may be positioned within one of a plurality of holes  242  formed adjacent free end  232  to secure wearable band  210  to a user. As discussed herein with respect to  FIG. 2 , retention loop  236  may aid in securing free end  232  and/or a portion of second strap portion  228  to a portion of wearable band  210 , when second strap portion  218  is coupled to buckle clasp  238 . 
       FIG. 4  shows an enlarged cross-section side view of a portion of wearable band  110  for an electronic device  100  taken along line  4 - 4  of  FIG. 2 . Wearable band  110  may include leather material for forming top layer  120  and bottom layer  122 , as discussed herein. Additionally, wearable band  110  may also include a tensile member  144 . Tensile member  144  may be placed or positioned between top layer  120  and bottom layer  122  of wearable band  110 . As shown in  FIG. 4 , tensile member  144  may be sandwiched between and/or coupled to at least one of top layer  120  and bottom layer  122 . Tensile member  144  may be positioned within wearable band  110  to add structure and/or stiffness to wearable band  110 . As such, tensile member  144  may be formed from any suitable material that may add structural support and/or stiffness to wearable band  110 , such as a molded elastomer, liquid crystal polymer fibers (e.g., Vectran®), aromatic polyester fibers, para-aramid fibers (e.g., Kevlar®), polyamide fibers (e.g., Nylon®), and the like. 
     In addition to being used with wearable band  110 , tensile member  144  may be used with a retention loop  136  of wearable band  110 . Retention loop  136  may be positioned on wearable band  110  for receiving and/or maintaining free end  132  of wearable band  110  (see,  FIG. 2 ) on the remainder of wearable band  110 , as discussed herein. 
       FIG. 5  shows an enlarged front cross-section view of retention loop  136  for wearable band  110  of an electronic device  100  taken along line  5 - 5  of  FIG. 2 . Retention loop  136  may be formed from a plurality of layers that form a loop of material and opening  146 . Opening  146  of retention loop  136  may receive wearable band  110  and a free end of wearable band  110  when electronic device  100  is coupled to a user. As shown in  FIG. 5 , and similarly discussed herein with respect to  FIG. 4 , tensile member  144  may be formed between top layer  120  and bottom layer  122  of retention loop  136 . Additionally, as shown in  FIG. 5 , tensile member  144  may include at least a portion that may be overlapped when formed within retention loop  136 . 
     seam  148   FIGS. 6A-6D  show a front view of top layer  120  of retention loop  136  undergoing a process of formation. Specifically,  FIGS. 6A-6D  show top layer  120  undergoing a process of formation, such that only seam  148  (see,  FIG. 6D ) may be visible to a user of wearable band  110  including retention loop  136 . 
       FIG. 6A  shows a single piece of leather forming top layer  120  of retention loop  136 . The single piece of leather may include a first end  150 , and a second end  152 , positioned opposite first end  150 . Additionally, single piece of leather forming top layer  120  may also include an interior surface  154 , and an exterior surface  156 . As discussed herein, interior surface  154  may be coupled to tensile member  144  when top layer  120  is utilized within retention loop  136 . Additionally, and as discussed herein, exterior surface  156  may be exposed to a user when top layer  120  is utilized in the formation of retention loop  136 . 
       FIG. 6B  shows first end  150  and second end  152  of top layer  120  positioned adjacent one another. In a non-limiting example, first end  150  and second end  152  may be positioned adjacent one another and may be folded so exterior surface  156  of first end  150  and second end  152  contact each other. Once positioned adjacent to one another, first end  150  and second end  152  of top layer  120  may be coupled together. In the non-limiting example shown in  FIG. 6B , a thread  158 , shown in phantom, may be positioned through first end  150  and second end  152  to join the respective ends to one another and form a loop having opening  146 . Thread  158  may be any suitable thread material that may be used to ensure a bond between first end  150  and second end  152  of top layer  120 . 
     Additionally as shown in  FIG. 6B , a cutout or trench  160  may be formed in a portion of top layer  120  adjacent the bonded edges of top layer  120 . Trench  160  may be formed partially through interior surface  154  of top layer  120  adjacent the coupled and/or threaded first end  150  and second end  152 . Trench  160  may be formed in top layer  120  of leather material using any suitable technique for removing a portion of material. Additionally, and as discussed herein, trench  160  may receive first end  150  and second end  152  for maintaining a substantially equal width or thickness of top layer  120  utilized to form retention loop  136 . 
     Turning to  FIG. 6C , subsequent to the bonding or coupling of first end  150  and second end  152 , the respective ends of top layer  120  may be folded over and/or positioned within trench  160 . In a non-limiting example, first end  150  and second end  152  may be bonded using threads  158 , and may be subsequently folded over into trench  160 , such that first end  150  is positioned closest to inner surface  154 , and second end  152  is positioned closest to exterior surface  156 . By forming trench  160  in top layer  120 , and subsequently positioning the respective ends of top layer within trench  160 , the thickness of top layer  120  may remain substantially uniform. First end  150  and second end  152  may be secured within trench  160  of top layer  120  using an suitable technique or component such as, but not limited to, adhesive, welding, melting or embossing. 
     Additionally, portions of ends  150 ,  152  of top layer  120  may also have a reduced thickness to ensure a uniform thickness for top layer  120 . In a non-limiting example, a thickness of each of first end  150  and second end  152  of top layer  120  may be reduced prior to positioning the ends  150 ,  152  within trench  160 . The reduction in the thickness of the coupled first end  150  and second end  152  of top layer  120  may allow top layer  120  to maintain a uniform thickness over the portion that includes trench  160 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 6C , seam  148  may be formed on exterior surface  156  of top layer  120  as a result of folding first end  150  and second end  152  into trench  160 . Seam  148  may be formed as a result of exterior surface  156  of first end  150  and second end  152  coming in contact with one another, without over lapping each other. Seam  148  may be substantially small in size, and may only show a minimal transition in material when coupling first end  150  to second end  152  to form the loop in retention loop  136  (see,  FIG. 5 ). As shown in  FIG. 6C , seam  148  may be positioned adjacent opening  146 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 6D , prior to being used in retention loop  136  (see,  FIG. 4 ) or prior to top layer  120  being used solely as retention loop  26  for a wearable band  110 , top layer  120  including seam  148  may be reversed or may be folded right-side in. That In a non-limiting example shown in  FIG. 6D  with comparison to  FIG. 6C , top layer  120  may be folded around, such that exterior surface  156  is now positioned on the exterior of opening  146 , and interior surface  154  is now positioned adjacent opening  146 . Additionally, by turning top layer  120  right-side-in (e.g., exposing exterior surface  156 ) seam  148  may now be exposed to a user of wearable band  110  including retention loop  136  having top layer  120 . By exposing seam  148  instead of the bonded ends of top layer  120 , a more visually desirable and/or aesthetically pleasing exterior surface  156  may be exposed to a user, while also forming top layer  120  from a single piece of leather material. 
       FIGS. 7A-7K  depict a process of forming a retention loop  336  for a wearable band  110  (see,  FIG. 2 ). In non-limiting embodiments,  FIGS. 7A-7K  show a process of formation of the retention loop  336 , where retention loop  336  includes top layer  320 , bottom layer  322  and tensile member  344  positioned there between. It is understood that similarly named components or similarly numbered components may function in a substantially similar fashion, may include similar materials and/or may include similar interactions with other components. Redundant explanation of these components has been omitted for clarity. 
       FIG. 7A  depicts an illustrative perspective view of bottom layer  322  utilized in forming retention loop  336 . Bottom layer  322  may be formed from a distinct piece of material, such as leather, when forming retention loop  336  (see,  FIG. 7K ), as discussed herein. As shown in  FIG. 7A , bottom layer  322  may include a reduced thickness portions  362   a ,  362   b  positioned on opposite sides of bottom layer  322 . That is, a first reduced thickness portion  362   a  may be formed on a first end partially through a first surface  364  of bottom layer  322 . In the non-limiting example, first reduced thickness portion  362   a  may reduce the thickness of a portion of bottom layer  322  by approximately half of the thickness of bottom layer  322 . 
     Additionally, a second reduced thickness portion  362   b  may be formed on a second end, opposite the first end of bottom layer  322  having the first reduced thickness portion  362   a . Second reduced thickness portion  362   b , as shown in  FIG. 7A , may be formed partially through a second surface  366  of bottom layer  322 . Similar to first reduced thickness portion  362   a , and in a non-limiting example, second reduced thickness portion  362   b  may reduce the thickness of a portion of bottom layer  322  by approximately half of the thickness of bottom layer  322 . As discussed herein, the reduced thickness portions  362   a ,  362   b  may be coupled or mated to each other when forming retention loop  336  to maintain a uniform thickness for bottom layer  322 . 
       FIG. 7B  depicts an illustrative perspective view of a mandrel  368  used in the process of forming retention loop  336 , as discussed herein. As shown in  FIG. 7B , mandrel  368  may have a substantially rectangular geometry, similar to the desired geometry of retention loop  336  (see,  FIG. 7K ). An adhesive strip  370  may be positioned along a center (C) of a top surface  372  of mandrel  368 . Adhesive strip  370  may be any suitable adhesive, such as double-sided tape, that may adhere bottom layer  322  to mandrel  368  when forming retention loop  336 , as discussed herein. Mandrel  368  may provide a rigid structure to bottom layer  322 , and other layers of material, when forming retention loop  336 . 
       FIGS. 7C and 7D  depict bottom layer  322  being coupled to mandrel  368 . In a non-limiting example, when forming retention loop  336  (see,  FIG. 7K ), bottom layer  322 , having reduced thickness portions  362   a ,  362   b , may be coupled to and/or wrapped around mandrel  368 . As shown in  FIGS. 7C and 7D , second surface  366  of bottom layer  122  may contact mandrel  368 . Additionally, the first end of bottom layer  322  having reduced thickness portion  362   a  may be coupled to and/or adhered to adhesive strip  370  of mandrel  368  on second surface  366 . By adhering bottom layer  322  to mandrel  368 , bottom layer  322  may remain substantially stationary on mandrel  368  during the wrapping process. 
     As shown in  FIG. 7D , and as discussed herein, second reduced thickness portion  362   b  may be coupled to and/or mated with first reduced thickness portion  362   a . In a non-limiting example, when bottom layer  322  is wrapped completely around mandrel  368 , second reduced thickness portion  362   b  may be coupled to and/or mated with first reduced thickness portion  362   a  to form a continuous loop of material around mandrel  368 . As shown in  FIG. 7D , by mating and/or coupling the reduced thickness portions  362   a ,  362   b , bottom layer  322  may have a uniform thickness after being wrapped around and/or coupled to mandrel  368 . Second reduced thickness portion  362   b  may be coupled to and/or mated with first reduced thickness portion  362   a  using any suitable bonding agent or technique including, but not limited to, adhesive, adhesive tape, melting, and the like. 
     Additionally as shown in  FIG. 7D , an adhesive  374  may be applied to first surface  364  of bottom layer  322 . Adhesive  374  may cover a portion or an entirety of first surface  364  of bottom layer  322 . Adhesive  374  may be any suitable bonding agent used to couple an additional layer of material to bottom layer  122 , as discussed herein. 
       FIG. 7E  depicts an illustrative perspective view of tensile member  344  utilized in the formation of retention loop  336  (see,  FIG. 7K ), as discussed herein. Tensile member  344  may be formed from a partially-rigid, non-woven material, such as polyester or urethane. Tensile member  344  may provide structural support, rigidity shape, and/or geometry to retention loop  336 , as discussed herein. 
     As a result of the structurally rigid properties of tensile member  344 , a plurality of creases or score lines  376  may be formed partially through a contact surface  378  of tensile member  344  to aid in the flexibility of tensile member  344 . Score lines  376  may be formed in predetermined areas or portions of tensile member  344 , to allow tensile member  344  to wrap around mandrel  368  and/or bottom layer  322 . In a non-limiting example shown in  FIGS. 7F and 7G , contact surface  378  of tensile member  344  may be coupled to bottom layer  322  using adhesive  374  applied to first surface  364  (see,  FIG. 7D ). Additionally, as shown in  FIGS. 7F and 7G , score lines  376  (shown in phantom) formed partially though contact surface  378 , may be formed in predetermined positions to align with the corners, bends, and/or folds in mandrel  368  and/or bottom layer  322 . 
     Additionally, as shown in  FIG. 7G , tensile member  344  may be “double wrapped” over the reduced thickness portions  362   a ,  362   b  of bottom layer  322 . In a non-limiting example shown in  FIG. 7G , two layers of tensile member  344  may be positioned above reduced thickness portions  362   a ,  362   b  of bottom layer  322 . The double wrapping of tensile member  344  may be a result of an extra length of material forming tensile member  344  being wrapped around the portion of bottom layer  322  having reduced thickness portions  362   a ,  362   b  a second time. As discussed herein, the double wrapping of tensile member  344  over bottom layer  322  may aid in maintaining an overall uniform or symmetric thickness of retention loop  336 . 
       FIGS. 7H and 7I , depict a top layer  320  of material being coupled to and/or positioned around tensile member  344  and bottom layer  322 . Top layer  320  may be formed from a distinct piece of material, such as leather, when forming retention loop  336  (see,  FIG. 7K ), as discussed herein. Also shown in  FIG. 7H , top layer  320  may include a single piece of material that may be sewn together. That is, top layer  320  may be formed by stitching a portion of the material adjacent ends  350 ,  352  using thread  358 . As shown in  FIG. 7H , the stitching of top layer  320  may formed a visible seam  348  on exterior surface  356  of top layer  320 . The formation of top layer  320  having seam  348  may be substantially similar to the processes discussed herein with respect to  FIGS. 6A-6C . 
     However, distinct from the process discussed with respect to  FIGS. 6A-6C , ends  350 ,  352  of top layer  320  may be positioned within opening  346  of top layer  320 . As shown in  FIG. 7H , a portion of material including ends  350 ,  352  may be positioned within opening  346 , and may be folded down and/or glued to interior surface  354  of top layer  320 . As a result, top layer  320  may include a greater thickness on the portion including seam  348 , than adjacent portions. As discussed herein, the uniform and/or symmetrical thickness of retention loop  336  may be maintained as a result of the layered configuration of bottom layer  322 , tensile member  344 , and/or top layer  320 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 7H and 7I , tensile member  344  and bottom layer  322  may be removed from mandrel  368 , prior to being inserted within opening  346  and/or being coupled top layer  320 . By removing tensile member  344  and bottom layer  322  from mandrel  368 , tensile member  344  and bottom layer  322  may be slightly deformed to be more easily inserted into opening  346  formed in top layer  320 . To aid in the coupling and/or bonding of top layer  320  to tensile member  344  and/or bottom layer  322 , tensile member  344  may be partially or completely covered with an adhesive  374 , as shown in  FIG. 7H . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 7H and 7I , opposite sides or portions of the assembly  380  including top layer  320 , tensile member  344  and bottom layer  322  may include equal thicknesses. In a non-limiting example, and as discussed herein, top layer  320  may include a double layer of material on a side or portion of the assembly  380  including seam  348 . As a result, when tensile member  344  and bottom layer  322  are inserted into opening  346  to be coupled to top layer  320 , the side or portion of the assembly  380  including seam  348  in top layer  320  may include four (4) layers: two (2) layers of material of top layer  320 , one (1) layer of material for tensile member  344 , and one (1) layer of material for bottom layer  322 . In the non-limiting example, the opposite side or portion of assembly  380  may include the double wrapped or two layers of tensile member  344 . As a result, the side or portion of the assembly  380  opposite the side or portion including the seam  348  may include four (4) layers as well: two (2) layers of material of tensile member  344 , one (1) layer of material for top layer  320 , and one (1) layer of material for bottom layer  322 . 
     Additionally shown in  FIG. 7I , subsequent to top layer  320  being coupled to tensile member  344  and bottom layer  322  to form assembly  380 , assembly  380  may be repositioned on mandrel  368 . Mandrel  368  in  FIG. 7I  may be the same mandrel  368  depicted in  FIGS. 7B-7D and 7F , or may be a distinct mandrel. Assembly  380  may be repositioned on mandrel  368  to heat the assembly  380  and set the adhesive  374  used to bond each layer together. In a non-limiting example, mandrel  368  may be heated to set adhesive  374  positioned between bottom layer  322  and tensile member  344  (see,  FIG. 7D ), and set adhesive  374  positioned between tensile member  344  and top layer  320  (see,  FIG. 7H ) to strength the bond between the respective, adhered layers. By using heated mandrel  368 , the adhesive  374  may be set from the inside, rather than applying heat to the assembly from the exterior. By setting the adhesive by applying heat from the inside using mandrel  368 , the risk of cosmetic damage to the exterior of the assembly  380  may be substantially minimized or eliminated when forming retention loop  336 . Additionally, by setting the adhesive on heated mandrel  368 , assembly  380  may take the desired shape and/or geometry of mandrel  368 . 
       FIG. 7J  depicts a perspective view of assembly  380  positioned on a sacrificial member  382 . Sacrificial member  382  may be positioned through the opening formed in assembly  380 . As shown in  FIG. 7J , sacrificial member  382  may be wider than opening  346  of assembly  380 . As a result, by inserting sacrificial member  382  through opening  346  of assembly  380 , assembly  380  may be temporarily flattened, stretched, and/or deformed. Sacrificial member  382  may be formed from a substantially rigid material, such as nylon, that may deform assembly  380  when inserted therein, and may be cut during a cutting process, as discussed herein. 
     The flattening or stretching of assembly  380  may aid in a cutting process of assembly  380 . In a non-limiting example, subsequent to assembly  380  being flattened or stretched by inserting sacrificial member  382  therein, assembly  380  may be cut into a plurality of retention loops  336  (see,  FIG. 7K ) having a desired width (W). As shown in  FIG. 7J , assembly  380  may be cut along cut lines (CL) to form a plurality of retention loops  336 . In a non-limiting example, assembly  380  may be cut along cut lines (CL) using a die cut process, where a blade cuts completely though assembly  380  and sacrificial member  382  to form retention loops  336 . In another non-limiting example, the cutting process may include the use of a circular belt cutting tool to cut assembly  380  along cut lines (CL). The circular belt cutting tool may cut assembly  380  by rotating a cutting blade completely around stationary assembly  380 , by rotating assembly  380  while contacting a stationary cutting blade, or any combination of the two processes. 
       FIG. 7K  depicts an illustrative perspective view of a single retention loop  336  formed from assembly  380  (see,  FIG. 7J ). Retention loop  336  may undergo further processing prior to being utilized with a wearable band  110  of an electronic device  100 , as discussed herein with respect to  FIGS. 1 and 2 . In a non-limiting example, exposed ends  384  of retention loop  336  may undergo a sanding process. The sanding process may remove any undesirable aesthetic irregularities of retention loop  336  that may be formed during the cutting process, discussed herein. The material of the layers (e.g., top layer  320 , tensile member  344 , bottom layer  322 ) may fray, be unevenly cut, tear and/or have a rough edge at exposed ends  384  as a result of the cutting process. A sanding process may be performed on the exposed ends  384  to substantially minimize, and/or eliminate the aesthetic irregularities (fray, rough edge, and so on), and may form substantially uniform exposed ends  384  for retention loop  336 . 
     Subsequent to the sanding process, exposed ends  384  may be painted. As shown in  FIG. 7K , and compared to  FIG. 7J , exposed ends  384  of retention loop  336  may be painted a color similar to top layer  320  of retention loop  336 . In a non-limiting example, all layers of retention loop  336 , including top layer  320 , tensile member  344  and bottom layer  322 , may be painted at exposed ends  384  to make retention loop  336  uniform in color. Additionally, the painting of exposed ends  384  may depict retention loop  336  as being formed from a single material, which may be aesthetically appealing to a user of a wearable band including retention loop  336 . 
       FIG. 8  depicts an example process for forming a plurality of retention loops for a wearable band. That is,  FIG. 8  is a flowchart depicting one example process  400  for forming a plurality of retention loops for a wearable band. In some cases, the process may be used to form one or more retention loops, as discussed above with respect to  FIGS. 7A-7J . 
     In operation  402  a bottom layer of material may be wrapped around and/or coupled to a mandrel to form an inner loop. In operation  404 , a tensile member may be coupled to and/or wrapped around the bottom layer of the material wrapped around and/or coupled to the mandrel. In operation  406 , the bottom layer, and the tensile member coupled to the bottom layer may be removed from the mandrel and may be inserted into an opening formed in a top layer of material. The top layer of material having the opening may form an outer loop. In operation  408 , the top layer of material may be coupled to and/or positioned around the tensile member, and the bottom layer of material, to form a loop assembly. In operation  410 , the loop assembly, including the top layer of material, the tensile member and the bottom layer of material, may be cut or diced into a plurality of retention loops. In operation  412 , the exposed edges of each individually cut retention loop may undergo a sanding process, and/or a painting process. 
       FIGS. 9A-9M  depict a process of forming a retention loop  536  for a wearable band  110  (see,  FIG. 2 ). In non-limiting embodiments,  FIGS. 9A-9M  show a process of formation of the retention loop  536  including a single piece of material  586 , and tensile member  544 . Distinct from the process discussed herein with respect to  FIGS. 7A-7K  where a plurality of retention loops  336  are formed from an assembly  380 , the process discussed herein with respect to  FIGS. 9A-9M  depict a single or individual retention loop  536  being formed. 
       FIGS. 9A and 9B  depict front and side views, respectively, of a single piece of material  586  (hereafter, “material  586 ”) utilized in forming retention loop  536 . Material  586  may be substantially similar to top layer  320  and/or bottom layer  322 , as discussed herein with respect to  FIGS. 7A-7K . In a non-limiting example, material  586  may be formed from leather. As shown in  FIGS. 9A and 9B , ends  550 ,  552  of material  586  may be positioned adjacent each other, and a stitch may be formed adjacent ends  550 ,  552  using thread  558 . The portion of material  586  positioned between thread  558  and ends  550 ,  552  may be selvedge material  588 . The stitch formed using thread  558  may form opening  546  in material  586 , as shown in  FIG. 9A . 
     Additionally shown in  FIG. 9A , and similarly discussed herein with respect to  FIG. 6B , thread  558  may form a stitch on material  586  that may be inside out. In a non-limiting example shown in  FIG. 9A , thread may be formed through material  586  while interior surface  554  is exposed and exterior surface  556  is formed within and/or adjacent opening  546 . As discussed below in detail, at least a portion of material  586  may be turned right side-in, or reversed to expose exterior surface  556  when forming retention loop  536 . 
       FIG. 9C  depicts a side view of material  586  undergoing another process of forming retention loop  536 . As shown in  FIG. 9C , extra selvedge portions  590   a ,  590   b  of selvedge material  588  may be removed from material  586 . In a non-limiting example, extra selvedge portions  590   a ,  590   b  may be removed on the selvedge material  588  to form a centralized selvedge portion  592  of material  586 . As show in  FIG. 9C , centralized selvedge portion  592  may be a portion of selvedge material  588  remaining above thread  558  of material  586  when forming retention loop  536 . Additionally, and as discussed herein, centralized selvedge portion  592  may define an outer portion of material  586  that may be exposed when retention loop  536  is formed. 
       FIGS. 9D and 9E  depict front and top views, respectively, of material  586 . After the removal process of extra selvedge portions  590   a ,  590   b , centralized selvedge portion  592  of material  586  may contact interior surface  554 . In a non-limiting example, centralized selvedge portion  592  may be folded down and coupled to interior surface  554  of material  586 . As shown in  FIG. 9E , centralized selvedge portion  592  may folded along the stitched formed by thread  558 , such that ends  550 ,  552  of selvedge portion  592  are positioned opposite one another. Centralized selvedge portion  592  of material  586  may be coupled to interior surface  554  of material  586  using any suitable bonding agent or technique including, but not limited to, adhesive, adhesive tape, melting, and the like. 
       FIGS. 9F and 9G  show front and side views, respectively, of material  586  undergoing additional processes for forming retention loop  536  (see,  FIG. 9L ). As shown in  FIGS. 9F and 9G , material  586  may be placed on a mandrel  1784 . As similarly discussed herein with respect to  FIG. 7B , mandrel  1784  may have a substantially rectangular geometry, similar to the desired geometry of retention loop  536 . Additionally, mandrel  1784  may provide structural support to material  586  when undergoing processes for forming retention loop  536 . 
     Additionally as shown in  FIGS. 9F and 9G , a subsequent process of wrapping tensile member  544  around material  586  may be depicted. In a non-limiting example, tensile member  544  may include a width substantially equal to the width of centralized selvedge portion  592  (shown in phantom) of material  586 . As such, tensile member  544  may substantially cover centralized selvedge portion  592  of material  586 . 
     As similarly discussed herein with respect to  FIG. 7G , tensile member  544  may be double wrapped around a portion of material  586 . In a non-limiting example shown in  FIG. 9G , tensile member  544  may be double wrapped on a portion of material  586  opposite centralized selvedge portion  592 . In the non-limiting, the portion of material  586  including centralized selvedge portion  592  may include three (3) layers after tensile member  544  is wrapped around material  586 . The three layers include, one (1) layer of material  586  below thread  558 , one (1) layer of folded, centralized selvedge portion  592 , and one (1) layer of tensile member  544 . In the non-limiting example shown in  FIG. 9G , a portion of material  586  positioned opposite centralized selvedge portion  592  may also include three (3) layers: one (1) layer of material  586 , and two (2) layers of tensile member  544 . As similarly discussed herein, the double wrapping of tensile member  544  may aid in maintaining a uniform and/or symmetric thickness of retention loop  536  formed from material  586  and tensile member  544 . 
       FIGS. 9H-9J  show front views of material  586  and tensile member  544  undergoing further processes for forming retention loop  536  (see,  FIG. 9K ). Subsequent to the wrapping of tensile member  544  around material  586 , an adhesive  1787  may be applied to a portion or substantially all of tensile member  544  and exposed, interior surface  554  of material  586 . In a non-limiting example shown in  FIG. 9H , both tensile member  544  and interior surface  554  of material  586  may be substantially covered with adhesive  1787 . Adhesive  374  may be any suitable bonding agent used to bond foldable portions  594   a ,  594   b  of material  586  to itself and/or tensile member  544 , as discussed herein. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 9H-9J , two interior portions or foldable portions  594   a ,  594   b  of material  586  uncovered by tensile member  544  may be folded toward tensile member  544 . In a non-limiting example, foldable portions  594   a ,  594   b  of material  1763  may be folded in respective directions, indicated by references arrows in  FIG. 9H , toward a centerline (C) of tensile member  544  to be coupled to tensile member  544  and/or distinct portions of material  586  using adhesive  374 . Foldable portions  594   a ,  594   b  of material  1763  may be folded or substantially rolled right side-in when being coupled to tensile member  544  to expose exterior surface  556  (see,  FIGS. 9I and 9J ). In a non-limiting example shown in  FIG. 9I , a first foldable portion  594   a  may be folded toward centerline (C) and coupled to tensile member  544 , while exposing a portion of exterior surface  556  of material  586 . Interior surface  554  of material  586  may still be exposed on second foldable portion  594   b , prior to folding of second foldable portion  594   b . As discussed herein, two interior portions or foldable portions  594   a ,  594   b  of material  586  may be concealed, and/or positioned adjacent the opening  546  when forming retention loop  536 . 
       FIG. 9J  depicts second foldable portion  594   b  folded toward centerline (C) and coupled to tensile member  544  in a similar manner as first foldable portion  594   a . As shown in  FIG. 9J , a portion of exterior surface  556  of material  586  may be exposed on second foldable portion  594   b  coupled to tensile member  544 . By folding and coupling both foldable portions  594   a ,  594   b  of material  586  to tensile member  544 , a joint  596  may be formed between the foldable portions  594   a ,  594   b . Although the foldable portions  594   a ,  594   b  of material  586  may touch or abut each other when coupled to tensile member  544 , joint  596  may be formed there between as a result of foldable portions  594   a ,  594   b  being formed from two distinct portions of material  586 . 
     Additionally, as shown in  FIG. 9J , and discussed herein, thread  558  forming the stitch in material  586  may be substantially hidden as a result of coupling foldable portions  594   a ,  594   b  to tensile member  544 . In a non-limiting example shown in  FIG. 9J , thread  558  may fold with foldable portions  594   a ,  594   b , such that a portion of the thread  558  may be positioned both below and about tensile member  544  (shown in phantom), but may be hidden from exterior surface  556  of material  586 . 
       FIGS. 9K and 9L  depict perspective views of material  586  and tensile member  544  undergoing additional processes for forming retention loop  536 . As shown in  FIG. 9K , material  586  is shown after foldable portions  594   a ,  594   b  are folded and coupled to tensile member  544  (see,  FIG. 9H-J ), and material  586  is removed from mandrel  1784 . Joint  596  formed between foldable portions  594   a ,  594   b  of material  586  may be exposed and visible when material  586  is removed from mandrel  1784 . Additionally, and as result of forming material  586  inside out, as discussed herein with respect to  FIGS. 9A and 9B , interior surface  554  of material  586  may be the only surface visible when material  586  is removed from mandrel  1784 . In a non-limiting example shown in  FIG. 9K , interior surface  554  may be visible on the surface of material  586  including joint  596 . 
       FIG. 9L  depicts material  586  turned right side-in and/or reversed after being removed from mandrel  1784  to form retention loop  536 . As shown in  FIG. 9L  and with comparison to  FIG. 9K , material  586  may be turned right side-in, reversed and/or may be rolled, such that the portion of interior surface  554  including joint  596  is positioned within opening  546 . Additionally, as shown in  FIG. 9L , the portion of exterior surface  556  positioned within or adjacent opening  546  in  FIG. 9K , may now be the exposed exterior surface of retention loop  536 . Finally, as shown in  FIG. 9L  seam  548  formed on exterior surface  556  may be exposed on retention loop  536 . 
       FIG. 9M  depicts a cross-section view of retention loop  536  taken along line  9 M- 9 M in  FIG. 9L . As shown in  FIG. 9M  joint  596  of retention loop  536  may be positioned within and/or adjacent opening  546 , and may not be substantially exposed or visible by a user of a wearable band  110  (see,  FIGS. 1 and 2 ) including retention loop  536 . Additionally as shown in  FIG. 9M , seam  548  formed in material  586  by forming a stitch using thread  558  may be the only feature exposed on exterior surface  556  of retention loop  536 . The remainder of retention loop  536  may appear seamless to a user of wearable band  110 . 
       FIG. 10  depicts an example process for forming an individual retention loop for a wearable band. that is,  FIG. 10  is a flowchart depicting one example process  600  for forming a retention loop for a wearable band. In some cases, the process may be used to form one or more retention loops, as discussed above with respect to  FIGS. 9A-9M . 
     In operation  602 , a thread may stitch a single piece of leather material proximate two joined ends of the material. The stitching in operation  602  may form a loop out of the single piece of leather material. In operation  604 , a portion of selvedge material formed adjacent the thread may be cut. The cutting of the portion of selvedge material may form an exterior portion and two interior foldable portions of the single piece of leather material. In operation  606 , a centralized selvedge portion of the selvedge material may be fixed to the single piece of leather material. The centralized selvedge portion may define the exterior portion of the single piece of the leather material. In operation  608 , a tensile member may be wrapped around the centralized selvedge portion and the single piece of the leather material. In operation  610 , the two interior foldable portions of the single piece of the leather material may be folded over and/or may cover the tensile member. In operation  612 , the single piece of leather and the tensile member may be turned inside out or reversed to expose the outer portion of the single piece of leather material. 
     The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not targeted to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20150426
Publication Date: 20171226
Grant Date: 20171226
Priority Date: 20140902
Inventors: ROHRBACH MATTHEW D.
GRIFFIN, II JAMES J.
SIAHAAN EDWARD
SHAFFER BENJAMIN A.
ESCHNER ADAM K.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "A44C5/0053", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45F2005/008", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45F5/00", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45F2005/008", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45F5/00", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A44C5/0053", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 55401053