US 20160058375A1

(19) United States

(12) Patent Application Publication (10) Pub. No.: US 2016/0058375 A1
Rothkopf (43) Pub. Date: Mar. 3, 2016
(54) WEARABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE G06F I/I6 (2006.01)
A6B 5/1455 (2006.01)
(71) Applicant: Apple Inc., Cupertino, CA (US) (52) U.S. Cl.
CPC ............. A61B5/681 (2013.01); A61 B 5/14551
(72) Inventor: Fletcher R. Rothkopf, Cupertino, CA (2013.01); A6B 5/0205 (2013.01); G06F
(US) I/I63 (2013.01); G06F 1/1656 (2013.01);
G06F 1/1605 (2013.01); A61 B 5/02427
(21) Appl. No.: 14/842,617 (2013.01)
(22) Filed: Sep. 1, 2015 (57) ABSTRACT
A consumer product that is a portable and, in some cases, a
Related U.S. Application Data wearable electronic device. The wearable electronic device
may have functionalities including: keeping time; monitoring
(60) Provisional application No. 62/044,974, filed on Sep. a user's physiological signals and providing health-related
2, 2014. information based on those signals; communicating with
other electronic devices or services; visually depicting data
Publication Classification ona display; gather data from one or more sensors that may be
used to initiate, control, or modify operations of the device;
(51) Int. Cl. determine a location of a touch on a surface of the device
A6 IB5/00 (2006.01) and/or an amount of force exerted on the device, and use
A6B 5/0205 (2006.01) either or both as input.

609

1s 610

623

100
624 608 644

1. 620
Patent Application Publication Mar. 3, 2016 Sheet 1 of 26 US 2016/005837S A1

10)
11

FIG. I.
Patent Application Publication Mar. 3, 2016 Sheet 2 of 26 US 2016/005837S A1

PROCESSING
102 MEMORY 104
UNITS

106 INPUT COMMUNICATIONS

COMPONENTS CHANNELS

HAPTIC
110 SENSORS DEVICE 112

WIRELESS 116
114 BATTERY
POWER

118 BIO SENSORS DISPLAY 120

122 SPEAKER MICROPHONE 124

FIG 2
Patent Application Publication Mar. 3, 2016 Sheet 3 of 26 US 2016/005837S A1

100

OUTPUT

DISPLAY
OUTPUT

AUDIO
OUTPUT

BUTTON/DIAL HAPTIC
INPUT OUTPUT

AUDIO COMMUNICATIONS
INPUT I/O

SENSOR
INPUT

BIOSENSOR
INPUT

FIG 3
Patent Application Publication Mar. 3, 2016 Sheet 4 of 26 US 2016/005837S A1

410

FIG. 4
Patent Application Publication Mar. 3, 2016 Sheet 5 of 26 US 2016/005837S A1

551a.
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552b
515 502

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FIG. 5
Patent Application Publication Mar. 3, 2016 Sheet 6 of 26 US 2016/005837S A1

609

623

624 608 644

1s 620
Patent Application Publication Mar. 3, 2016 Sheet 7 of 26 US 2016/005837S A1

705

720

2 642
Patent Application Publication Mar. 3, 2016 Sheet 8 of 26 US 2016/005837S A1
Patent Application Publication Mar. 3, 2016 Sheet 10 of 26 US 2016/005837S A1

o 1001b.

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1304

FIG. I.3B
Patent Application Publication Mar. 3, 2016 Sheet 14 of 26 US 2016/005837S A1

FIG. 14A

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Patent Application Publication Mar. 3, 2016 Sheet 15 of 26 US 2016/005837S A1

FIG. ISA

1530

FIG. ISB
Patent Application Publication Mar. 3, 2016 Sheet 16 of 26 US 2016/005837S A1

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FIG 16
Patent Application Publication Mar. 3, 2016 Sheet 17 of 26 US 2016/005837S A1

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FIG. 17
Patent Application Publication Mar. 3, 2016 Sheet 18 of 26 US 2016/005837S A1
Patent Application Publication Mar. 3, 2016 Sheet 19 of 26 US 2016/005837S A1

100
104 102

MEMORY PROCESSOR
1810 COND BATTERY 114
1838

1869 - COIL COIL N-1869

PROCESSOR
1834 1840 1836

FIG. 19
Patent Application Publication Mar. 3, 2016 Sheet 20 of 26 US 2016/005837S A1

601

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N2012 2014

FIG. 20
Patent Application Publication Mar. 3, 2016 Sheet 21 of 26 US 2016/005837S A1

2134

2130

FIG. 2IA

2128 2134 2100

NZ-S

FIG 21B
Patent Application Publication Mar. 3, 2016 Sheet 22 of 26 US 2016/005837S A1

2N
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FIG. 22B
Patent Application Publication Mar. 3, 2016 Sheet 23 of 26 US 2016/005837S A1

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2380 2370
FIG. 23
Patent Application Publication Mar. 3, 2016 Sheet 24 of 26 US 2016/005837S A1

N
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FIG. 24B
Patent Application Publication Mar. 3, 2016 Sheet 25 of 26 US 2016/005837S A1

2501

FIG. 25C
Patent Application Publication Mar. 3, 2016 Sheet 26 of 26 US 2016/005837S A1

2606 2606

2604
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2608

G
2608

G
2608
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016

WEARABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE at a first end of the contour. The continuous contoured Surface
may also be tangent with the flat middle portion of the cover
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED at a second end of the contour. In some embodiments, the
APPLICATION continuous contoured Surface has a constant radius.
0001. This application is a nonprovisional patent applica 0007. In some embodiments, the cavity has a rectangular
tion of and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent shape. The curved edge portion of the housing may have four
Application No. 62/044,974, filed Sep. 2, 2014 and titled sides that Surround the cavity, each side is orthogonal to two
“Wearable Electronic Device and Associated Methods of Use adjacent sides. Each side may be connected to an adjacent
and Manufacture, the disclosure of which is hereby incorpo side by a rounded corner. In some embodiments, the rounded
rated herein by reference in its entirety. corners have a curvature that corresponds to a curvature of the
continuous contoured surface formed by the curved edge
FIELD portion of the cover and the curved side portion of the hous
0002 The following disclosure generally relates to an ing.
electronic device, and more specifically to a wearable elec 0008. Some embodiments include a crown module that is
tronic device having a range of features, including touch positioned at least partially within an aperture formed within
input, force input, an interchangeable attachment system, the curved side portion of the housing. The crown module
health monitoring functionality, wireless power charging, may include an outer Surface configured to receive a rotary
wireless authentication and transaction functionality, and user input. The crown module may be offset with respect to a
other features and functionality. centerline of the housing between the top portion and the flat
bottom portion. The offset may be toward the top portion of
BACKGROUND the housing. The crown module may include a dial having a
0003 Portable electronic devices have become increas portion that is higher than an interface between the cover and
ingly popular, and the features and functionality provided by the housing.
portable electronic devices continue to expand to meet the 0009. In some example embodiments, a port is formed in
needs and expectations of many consumers. However, some the curved side portion of the housing. An acoustic module
traditional portable electronic devices, particularly wearable may be disposed within the housing and configured to pro
electronic devices, may have relatively limited functionality duce an audio output through the port. The acoustic module
or are only able to perform a specialized set of functions or may include an acoustic element and an acoustic cavity that
tasks. For example, some traditional electronic wristwatches acoustically couples the acoustic element to the port. The port
may be configured to perform a relatively limited set of func may include an orifice that is offset with respect to the acous
tions, including displaying time, date, and performing basic tic cavity to prevent the directingress of liquid into the acous
timing functions. The embodiments described herein are tic module.
directed to a wearable electronic device that provides a wide 0010. In some embodiments, the device includes a gasket
range of functionality, as compared to Some traditional wear positioned between the housing and the cover. The housing
able electronic devices.
may also include a ledge formed along a perimeter of the
SUMMARY cavity. The gasket may be positioned along the ledge that is
formed along the perimeter of the cavity. The gasket, the
0004. The embodiments included herein are directed to a cover, and the housing may be configured to cooperate to
consumer product, which may include a portable or wearable form a substantially water-proof seal.
electronic device that is configured to provide an expansive 0011. In some example embodiments, the device includes
feature set integrated or incorporated into a compact form a biosensor module that is disposed in an opening formed in
factor. In some aspects of the present disclosure, a consumer the flat bottom portion of the housing. The biosensor module
product may integrate or combine multiple Subsystems into a may include a chassis positioned in the opening of the hous
single device to provide a wide range of functionality, includ ing and defining an array of windows. An array of light
ing biometric sensing, touch-based user input, near-field Sources may be attached to the chassis and configured to emit
communications, and other desirable features. In some light into the user through the array of windows. The biosen
aspects, multiple Subsystems are integrated into the relatively Sor module may also include an optically transparent rear
compact space of a wrist-worn device. cover disposed over the chassis and over the array of windows
0005. Some example embodiments are directed to wear and operative to pass light emitted from the array of light
able electronic device having a housing that includes a flat Sources into the user. In some embodiments, the rear cover
bottom portion, a top portion defining a cavity, and a curved has a convex outer contour.
side portion that extends from the bottom portion to the top
portion. A band may be attached to the housing and config 0012 Some example embodiments are directed to an elec
ured to secure the wearable electronic device to a user. A tronic device having a housing comprising a bottom portion
display may be at least partially disposed within the cavity defining an opening and a band attached to the housing and
and may have a viewable area. The device may also include a configured to secure the electronic device to a user. A biosen
cover disposed above the display and including a flat middle Sor module may be disposed within the opening of the hous
portion larger than the viewable area of the display, a curved ing. A rear cover may be disposed over the biosensor module
edge portion Surrounding the flat middle portion and coincid and may include an edge protruding outwardly from the bot
ing with the curved side portion along a perimeter of the tom portion of the housing and an outer Surface having a
cavity to form a continuous contoured surface. convex curved contour. In some embodiments, the outer Sur
0006. In some embodiments, the continuous contoured face of the rear cover defines one or more windows that
Surface is tangent with the flat bottom portion of the housing provide operational access to one or more optical components
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016

of the biosensor module. The one or more windows may have 0019. Some example embodiments are directed to a wear
a curvature that matches the convex curved contour of the able electronic device including a housing and a band
outer Surface. attached to the housing and configured to secure the wearable
0013. In some embodiments, the biosensor module electronic device to a user. A crown may be disposed relative
includes an array of light Sources that are configured to emit to the housing and configured to receive a rotational input. An
light into a body of the user. The biosensor module may also encoder may be operatively coupled to the crown and config
include a photodetector configured to receive light produced ured to produce an encoder output that corresponds to the
by a light source of the array of light sources that is reflected rotational input. A speaker module may be disposed within
from the body and produce a sensor signal. In some cases, the the housing and configured to produce an audio output that
biosensor module is removably coupled to the housing. corresponds to the encoder output. A haptic device may be
0014. In some embodiments, the device also includes a disposed within the housing and configured to produce a
processing unit configured to compute a health metric asso haptic output that corresponds to the encoder output. In some
ciated with the user based on the sensor signal. The device embodiments, the haptic output is synchronized with the
may also include a display disposed within the housing and audio output. The crown may be further configured to trans
configured to display the health metric. late along an axis and actuate a tactile Switch.
0015. Some example embodiments are directed to a wear 0020. In some embodiments, the device also includes a
able electronic device, having a housing including a top por display element within the housing. The device may be con
tion, a cavity formed within the top portion, and a curved side figured to display a list of items on the display element and
portion that Surrounds the cavity. The device may also include scroll the list of items in response to the encoder output. The
a transparent cover disposed over the cavity of the housing device may also be configured to synchronize the audio and
and may include a flat middle portion at a center of the haptic outputs with the scrolling of the list of items. In some
transparent cover, a curved outer portion that emanates from embodiments, the crown is further configured to translate
and surrounds the flat middle portion and extends outwardly along an axis and actuate a tactile Switch. The crown may be
to an edge of the transparent cover, and a mask positioned operative to select an item of the list of items when the tactile
relative to an internal surface of the transparent cover. The Switch is actuated.
mask may have an outer boundary located proximate to the 0021. Some example embodiments are directed to a wear
edge of the transparent cover and an inner boundary located able electronic device having a housing that includes a bottom
within the curved outer portion of the transparent cover. portion and an aperture formed in the bottom portion. A band
0016. In some embodiments, the device includes a display may be attached to the housing and configured to secure the
disposed below the transparent cover. A perimeter portion of wearable electronic device to a user. A biosensor module may
a viewable area of the display may be disposed below the be disposed in the aperture of the housing. The biosensor
mask. The device may also include an antenna having a shape module may include an array of light sources configured to
that corresponds to a shape of the cavity formed within the emit light into a body of the user, and a photodetector con
housing. The antenna may be disposed in a groove formed in figured to receive light produced by a light source of the array
the internal Surface of the transparent cover. The groove may of light sources that is reflected from the body and produce a
be formed between the outer boundary and the inner bound sensor signal. The device may also include a processing unit
ary of the mask. In some embodiments, the cover is formed that is configured to compute a health metric associated with
from a Sapphire material. The antenna may be configured to the user based on the sensor signal. A display may be disposed
facilitate wireless communication between the wearable elec within the housing and configured to display the health met
tronic device and an external device. 1C

0017. Some example embodiments are directed to an elec 0022. In some embodiments, the array of light sources and
tronic device having a housing including a first end, a second the photodetector are configured to function as multiple pho
end opposite the first end, a first side extending between the toplethysmography (PPG) sensors. Each PPG sensor may be
first and second ends, and a second side opposite to the first configured to be used to compute a separate health metric. In
side and extending between the first and second ends. The first Some embodiments, a first light source of the array of light
end may define a first groove extending between the first and sources includes a green LED adapted to detect blood perfu
second sides and may be configured to receive a first lug sion in the body. A second light source of the array of light
portion of a first band. The second end may define a second sources may include an infrared LED adapted to detect water
groove extending between the first and second sides and may content of the body. The health metric may include one or
be configured to receive a second lug portion of a second more of a heart rate, a respiration rate, a blood oxygenation
band. The first and second grooves may have an inwardly level, and a blood volume estimate.
curved concave shape with an undercut feature that retains the 0023. In some embodiments, the device also includes at
first and second lug portions. In some embodiments, the first least one pair of electrodes disposed on an exterior Surface of
groove extends through a solid portion of the housing to form the housing. The at least one pair of electrodes may be con
a continuous interior shape. figured to produce a signal when the at least one pair of
0018. In some embodiments, the device includes a display electrodes is in contact with the body. In some case, the signal
at least partially disposed within a cavity of the housing. A is used to compute an additional health metric that includes
cover may be disposed above the display and at least a portion one or more of a heart function, a body fat estimate, and a
of the first groove is disposed below the cover. The first and body fat estimate.
second grooves may be formed at an angle with respect to a 0024. Some example embodiments are directed to a wear
centerline of the housing. The first and second grooves may able electronic device including a housing and a band
be angled upward toward a top of the housing and inward attached to the housing and configured to secure the wearable
toward the center of the housing. The first and second grooves electronic device to a user. The device may also include an
may cross the centerline of the housing. array of light emitting diodes (LEDs) disposed within the
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016

housing, the array of LEDs being configured to emit light. A 0029 FIG. 1 depicts an example wearable electronic
photodetector may be disposed within the housing and con device having a device body and band.
figured to receive light produced by an LED of the array of 0030 FIG. 2 depicts an example schematic diagram of a
LEDs that is reflected from a body of the user and produce a wearable electronic device.
first sensor signal in response to the received light. The device 0031 FIG. 3 depicts an example functional diagram for a
may also include at least one pair of electrodes disposed on an wearable electronic device.
exterior surface of the wearable electronic device. The elec 0032 FIG. 4 depicts an example wearable electronic
trodes may be configured to produce a second sensor signal device as part of a system of devices.
when the electrodes are in contact with a respective portion of 0033 FIG. 5 depicts a system of interchangeable compo
the body. The device may also include a processing unit that nents for a wearable device.
is configured to compute one or more health metrics based on 0034 FIG. 6 depicts an example wearable electronic
the first and second sensor signals. The device may also device having a device body and band.
include a display disposed at least partially within the housing 0035 FIG. 7 depicts an exploded view of components of
and configured to display the one or more health metrics.
0025. Some example embodiments are directed to a wear an example wearable electronic device.
able electronic device including a housing and a band 0036 FIG. 8 depicts an example housing for a wearable
attached to the housing and configured to secure the wearable electronic device.
electronic device to a user. A cover may be disposed relative 0037 FIG. 9 depicts an example force sensor configured
to the housing and a display may be attached to a lower to use a capacitive measurement.
Surface of the cover. A force sensor may be positioned 0038 FIGS. 10A-B depict plan views of example force
between the cover and the housing and attaching the cover to SSOS.
the housing. The force sensor may be configured to detect the 0039 FIG. 11 depicts an example force sensor configured
force of a touch on the cover. The force sensor may also form to use a resistive measurement.
a barrier to prevent ingress of liquid into the wearable elec 0040 FIG. 12 depicts an example pixelated force sensor
tronic device. In some embodiments, an antenna may be configured to use a resistive measurement.
disposed relative to the cover and external from the housing. 0041 FIGS. 13 A-B depict example force sensor struc
The antenna may be configured to facilitate wireless commu tures.
nication with an external device. 0042 FIGS. 14A-C depict an example touch sensor based
0026. In some example embodiments, a wearable elec on mutual capacitance.
tronic device may include a housing and a band attached to 0043 FIGS. 15A-B depict an example touch sensor based
the housing and configured to secure the wearable electronic on self capacitance.
device to a user. A display element may be positioned within 0044 FIG. 16 depicts an example device having biosen
the housing and a rechargeable battery may be disposed SOS.
within the housing and operatively coupled to the display 0045 FIG. 17 depicts an example device having wireless
element. The device may also include a receive coil within the communications with an external device.
housing configured to inductively couple with an external 0046 FIG. 18 depicts an example electronic device and
transmit coil. A power conditioning circuit may be configured example dock of an inductive charging system.
to recharge the rechargeable battery using power received by 0047 FIG. 19 depicts a block diagram of an example
the receive coil. The power conditioning circuit may be con inductive charging system.
figured to provide power to the display element. The device 0048 FIG. 20 depicts an example acoustic module.
may also include a first alignment magnet positioned within 0049 FIGS. 21A-B depict an example cover and antenna.
the receive coil and configured to align the device with respect 0050 FIGS. 22A-B depict an example haptic module.
to a second alignment magnet positioned within the external 0051 FIG. 23 depicts an example device having a crown
transmit coil. module with an encoder.
0027. Some example embodiments are directed to a wear 0.052 FIGS. 24A-B depict an example device having a
able electronic device that includes a housing and a band crown module with a tactile switch.
attached to the housing and configured to secure the wearable 0053 FIGS. 25A-C depict an example receiving feature
electronic device to a user. A cover may be positioned relative for a band.
to the housing and a display may be disposed within the 0054 FIG. 26 depicts example elements of a display.
housing and below the cover. A force sensor may be disposed
within the housing and configured to detect a force of a touch DETAILED DESCRIPTION
on the cover. A touch sensor may be disposed between the 0055 Provided herein are descriptions and examples of a
display and the cover. The touch sensor may be configured to
detect a location of the touch on the cover. In some embodi consumer product, which may include a portable electronic
ments, the force sensor is disposed along a perimeter of the device, a wearable electronic device, or other type of device.
display. The device may also include a processing unit and By way of example and not by way of limitation, the con
memory disposed within the housing. The processing unit Sumer product may be an electronic device, a mechanical
may be configured to interpreta touch gesture on a surface of device, or an electromechanical device. Specific example
the cover using a force output from the force sensor and a devices include mobile phones, personal digital assistants,
touch output from the touch sensor. music players, timekeeping devices, health monitoring
devices, tablet computers, laptop computers, glasses (elec
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS tronic or otherwise), portable storage devices, and the like.
0028. The disclosure will be readily understood by the 0056. In one particular embodiment, the consumer prod
following detailed description in conjunction with the accom uct is a portable and, more specifically, a wearable consumer
panying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate product. A wearable consumer product is one that can be
like structural elements. worn by or otherwise secured to a user. For example, the
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016

consumer product may be a wearable electronic device ucts may have a similar receiving feature that is standardized
including, but not limited to, a wearable computer, a wearable within the system of interchangeable components. An
watch, a wearable communication device, a wearable media example system of interchangeable components is described
player, a wearable health monitoring device, and the like. A below with respect to FIG. 5 and with respect to other
wearable consumer product may be wornby a user in a variety examples provided herein.
of ways. In some examples, the consumer product is a wrist 0060 Some aspects of the present disclosure are directed
worn product and may include a band that can be wrapped to a consumer product that includes a body that includes a
around a user's wrist to secure the consumer product to the case or housing used to protect as well as Support the internal
user's body. The device may include one or more other types components of the product in their assembled position. The
of attachments including, for example, an armband, lanyard, housing may enclose and Support various components,
waistband, chest strap, and the like. including, for example, integrated circuits, Subsystems, mod
0057. Some aspects of the disclosure are directed to a ules, and other internal components of the device. In some
wearable electronic device having improved functionality aspects, the housing forms a water-resistant or water-proof
and/or versatility as compared to some traditional wearable barrier and also provides structural rigidity necessary to pro
devices. For example, some aspects of the disclosure are tect internal components. The housing may be formed as a
directed to a consumer product, Such as a portable electronic single piece, which may enhance the structural rigidity, water
device, having an expansive feature set integrated or incor impermeability, and manufacturability of the housing. An
porated into a compact form factor. In some aspects of the example housing and example internal components for a con
present disclosure, a consumer product may integrate or com Sumer product are provided below with respect to FIGS. 6-8
bine multiple Subsystems into a single device to provide a and with respect to other examples provided herein.
wide range of functionality, including biometric sensing, 0061. In some aspects, the consumer product includes a
touch-based user input, near-field communications, and other force sensor that is configured to detect and measure the
desirable features. In some aspects, multiple Subsystems are magnitude of a force or pressure on a surface of the product.
integrated into the relatively compact space of a wrist-worn In some implementations, the force sensor includes a capaci
device. Some aspects of the following disclosure are directed tive-based sensor that is configured to estimate the force
to the integration of a variety of Subsystems or modules to based on a deflection or movement between capacitive plates
provide functionality that may not be possible using some that is caused by and correlates to the amount of force caused
traditional device platforms. In some cases, the configuration by a touch. In some implementations, the force sensor is a
and/or functionality provided by the various subsystems may resistance- or charge-based sensor that is configured to esti
be configurable by the end user, the manufacturer, and/or a mate the force based on the deflection of a sheet or film that is
vendor of the device. Example subsystems or modules of a positioned relative to the touch-sensitive surface of the prod
consumer product and their respective functions are uct. In some implementations, the output from the force sen
described below with respect to FIGS. 2 and 3. sor is combined with the output from a touch sensor, which
0058 Some aspects of the disclosure are directed to a may be self-capacitive or mutually capacitive, or a combina
consumer product that is configured to communicate wire tion of the two. Example force and touch sensors are
lessly with any of a number of other devices, such as a mobile described below with respect to FIGS. 9-15B and with respect
phone, computer, tablet computing devices, personal media to other examples provided herein.
players, televisions, networked home appliances, networked 0062. In some aspects, the consumer product includes one
home controls, electronic systems in vehicles, and so on. or more biosensors. The biosensors may include optical and/
Through wireless communication with other devices, the or electronic biometric sensors that may be used to compute
consumer product may transmit and/or receive various noti one or more health metrics. Example health metrics include,
fications, messages, or other information between devices. without limitation, a heart rate, a respiration rate, blood oxy
The wireless communication may also facilitate the relay of genation level, a blood Volume estimate, blood pressure, or a
alerts or other device outputs to notify the user of an event or combination thereof. In some embodiments, the biosensors
action. In some aspects, the consumer product may commu include an electrical sensor that may be used to measure
nicate wirelessly with any of a number of electronic accesso electrocardiographic (ECG) characteristics, galvanic skin
ries, including headset devices, portable speaker devices, por resistance, and other electrical properties of the user's body.
table microphone devices, display Screens, and so on. An An example consumer product having multiple biosensors is
example communication system is described below with described below with respect to FIG. 16 and with respect to
respect to FIG. 4 and with respect to other examples provided other examples herein.
herein. 0063. In some aspects, the consumer product is configured
0059. In some aspects, the consumer product may include to perform wireless communication with an external device.
a system of interchangeable components used to attach or In some implementations, the wireless communication may
secure the consumer product to the user. The system of inter include a Near Field Communication (NFC) interface. The
changeable components may include a set of interchangeable NFC interface may be used to identify the device and initiate
bands or attachment devices that are configured to connect or a secure data connection, which may be used to authorize
attach to a receiving feature on the body of the product. The transactions, purchases, or conduct other forms of e-com
receiving feature may be standardized within the system of merce. An example consumer product having wireless com
interchangeable components and allow multiple types of munications with an external device is described in more
bands or attachment devices to be used with the same housing detail below with respect to FIG. 17 and with respect to other
or body. The system of interchangeable components may also examples herein.
allow for an interchange between different bodies, which may 0064. In some aspects, the consumer product is configured
include different types of electronic devices or other con to recharge an internal battery using a wireless charging sys
Sumer products. Each body of the different devices or prod tem. In some implementations, the consumer product
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016

includes one or more receiving inductive coils that are con another, visually depicting data on a display; gathering data
figured to cooperate with one or more transmitting inductive form one or more sensors that may be used to initiate, control,
coils that are located in a charging dock or other external or modify operations of the device; determining a location of
device. The wireless charging system may allow the transfer a touch on a Surface of the device and/or an amount of force
of power and/or wireless communications with the consumer exerted on the device, and using either or both as input;
product without the use of an external port or terminal con accepting Voice input to control one or more functions;
nection. An example consumer product having wireless accepting tactile input to control one or more functions; cap
charging capabilities is described in more detail below with turing and transmitting images; and so on. These and other
respect to FIGS. 18-19 and with respect to other examples functions and features will be described in more detail herein.
herein. 0069. The wearable consumer product 10 can take a vari
0065. In some aspects, the consumer product includes one ety of forms. In one example, the consumer product 10 may
or more acoustic modules that are configured to function as a be a wrist-worn electronic device. The device may include a
speaker and/or a microphone for the product. The speaker variety of types of form factors including, wristbands, arm
and/or microphone may include features that enhance the bands, bracelets, jewelry, and/or the like.
water/liquid resistance or impermeability of the consumer 0070. In the illustrated embodiment, the consumer prod
product. The consumer product may also include a haptic uct 10 includes a device body 11. The device body 11 may
module or actuator that is configured to produce a haptic include a housing that carries, encloses and Supports both
output that may be perceived by the user. In some implemen externally and internally various components (including, for
tations, the output of an acoustic module. Such as a speaker, example. integrated circuit chips and other circuitry) to pro
and the haptic module may be used to provide feedback or an vide computing and functional operations for the consumer
alert to the user. In some cases, an acoustic module and the product 10. The components may be disposed on the outside
haptic module provide feedback to the user and may be coor of the housing, partially within the housing, through the hous
dinated with a user input, Such as user-interface selecting, ing, completely inside the housing, and the like. The housing
user-interface Scrolling, or other user input command. An may, for example, include a cavity for retaining components
example acoustic module is described below with respect to internally, holes or windows for providing access to internal
FIG. 20 and an example haptic module is described below components, and various features for attaching other compo
with respect to FIGS. 22A-B. nents. The housing may also be configured to form a water
0066. In some aspects, the consumer product includes a resistant or water-proof enclosure for the body 11. For
dial or crown that is coupled to an encoder or other rotary example, the housing may be formed from as a single unitary
sensor for detecting a rotary input. In some implementations, body and the openings in the unitary body may be configured
the output from the optical encoder is used to drive an aspect to cooperate with other components to form a water-resistant
of a user interface or control other functionality of the prod or water-proof barrier.
uct. Additionally, the dial or crown may include a tactile 0071 Examples of components that may be contained in
Switch that can be actuated by pressing inward on the dial or the device body 11 include processing units, memory, dis
crown. An example consumer product having a crown is play, sensors, biosensors, speakers, microphones, haptic
described below with respect to FIGS. 23-24B and with actuators, batteries, and so on. In some cases, the device body
respect to other examples herein. 11 may take on a small form factor. In cases such as these, the
0067. The description that follows includes sample components may be packaged and/or in order to provide the
devices, components, modules, systems, methods, and appa most functionality in the Smallest space. The components
ratuses that embody various elements of the present disclo may also be configured to take up a minimal amount of space,
sure. However, it should be understood that various elements which may facilitate the device body 11 having a small form
of the described disclosure may be combined and/or practiced factor. Additionally, the integration and assembly of the vari
in a variety of forms in addition to those described herein. In ous components may be configured to enhance the reliability
particular, the modules and components are described in a of the consumer product 10.
particular combination with respect to some examples pro 0072 The construction of the housing of the device body
vided below. However other combinations are possible, 11 may be widely varied. For example, housing may be
which may be achieved by adding, removing, and/or re-ar formed from a variety of materials including plastic, rubber,
ranging modules to obtain a device or system having the wood, silicone, glass, ceramics, fiber composites, metal or
desired characteristics. metal alloys, (e.g., stainless steel, aluminum), precious met
0068 FIG. 1 depicts a wearable consumer product 10. For als (e.g., gold, silver), or other Suitable materials, or a com
example, the consumer product 10 may be a wearable elec bination of these materials.
tronic device. In one example, the consumer product 10 may 0073. Also in the illustrated embodiment, the wearable
be a wearable multifunctional electronic device including electronic device includes a band 12 or strap or other means
multiple functionalities such as time keeping, health moni for attaching to a user. The band 12 may, for example, be
toring, sports monitoring, medical monitoring, communica configured to attach to the body and provide a loop for secur
tions, navigation, computing operations, and/or the like. The ing to the wrist of the user. The band 12 may be integral with
functionalities may include but are not limited to: keeping the housing or it may be a separate part. If integral, the band
time; monitoring a user's physiological signals and providing 12 may be a continuation of the housing. In some cases, the
health-related information based on those signals; communi integral band may be formed from the same material as the
cating (in a wired or wireless fashion) with other electronic housing. If the band 12 is separate, the band may be fixed or
devices or services, which may be different types of devices releasably coupled to the housing. In both cases, the band 12
having different functionalities; providing alerts to a user, may be formed from similar or different materials as the
which may include audio, haptic, visual and/or other sensory housing. In most cases, the band 12 is formed from a flexible
output, any or all of which may be synchronized with one material such that it can conform to a user's body. Further
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016

more, the band 12 itself may be a single integral part or it may on the processing units 102. In the present example, the input
include attachment ends that provide an open and closed components 106 may include the hardware configured to
configuration. The attachment ends may, for example, be receive the user input (e.g., button, Switch, crown, and
manifested as a clasp or other similar attachment mechanism encoder) which is operatively coupled to circuitry and firm
or device. This particular configuration allows a user to open ware used to generate signals or data that are able to be
the band 12 for placement on the arm and close the band 12 in accessed using processor instructions. Each input component
order to secure the band and body to the arm. The band 12 106 may include specialized circuitry for generating signals
may be widely varied. By way of example, they may be or data and, additionally or alternatively, circuitry and firm
formed from rubber, silicone, leather, metal, mesh, links and/ ware for generating signals or data may be shared between
or the like. multiple input components 106. In some cases, the input
0074 FIG. 2 depicts an example schematic diagram of a components 106 produce user-provided feedback for appli
wearable electronic device. By way of example, device 100 of cation-specific input that corresponds to a prompt or user
FIG.2 may correspond to the consumer product 10 shown in interface object presented on display 120. For example, the
FIG.1. To the extent that multiple functionalities, operations, crown (item 642 of FIG. 6) may be used to receive rotational
and structures are disclosed as being part of, incorporated input from the user, which may be translated into an instruc
into, or performed by device 100, it should be understood that tion to scroll a list or object presented on the display 120. The
various embodiments may omit any or all such described input components 106 may also produce user input for sys
functionalities, operations, and structures. Thus, different tem-level operations. For example the input components 106
embodiments of the device 100 may have some, none, or all of may be configured to interact directly with hardware or firm
the various capabilities, apparatuses, physical features, ware being executed on the device 100 for system-level
modes, and operating parameters discussed herein. operations, including, without limitation, power on, power
0075. As shown in FIG. 2, the device 100 includes one or off, sleep, awake, and do-not-disturb operations.
more processing units 102 that are configured to access a (0079. As shown in FIG. 2, the device 100 may also include
memory 104 having instructions stored thereon. The instruc one or more acoustic elements, including a speaker 122 and a
tions or computer programs may be configured to perform microphone 124. The speaker 122 may include drive elec
one or more of the operations or functions described with tronics or circuitry and may be configured to produce an
respect to the device 100. For example, the instructions may audible sound or acoustic signal in response to a command or
be configured to control or coordinate the operation of a input. Similarly, the microphone 124 may also include drive
display 120, one or more input/output components 106, one electronics or circuitry and is configured to receive an audible
or more communication channels 108, one or more sensors Sound or acoustic signal in response to a command or input.
110, a speaker 122, a microphone 124 and/or one or more The speaker 122 and the microphone 124 may be acoustically
haptic feedback devices 112. coupled to respective ports or openings in the housing that
0076. The processing units 102 of FIG. 2 may be imple allow acoustic energy to pass, but may prevent the ingress of
mented as any electronic device capable of processing, liquid and other debris. As shown in FIG. 2, the speaker 122
receiving, or transmitting data or instructions. For example, and microphone 124 are also operatively coupled to the pro
the processing units 102 may include one or more of a micro cessing units 102, which may control the operation of the
processor, a central processing unit (CPU), an application speaker 122 and microphone 124. In some cases, the process
specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor ing units 102 are configured to operate the speaker 122 to
(DSP), or combinations of such devices. As described herein, produce an acoustic output that corresponds to an application
the term “processor is meant to encompass a single proces or system-leveloperation being performed on the device 100.
sor or processing unit, multiple processors, multiple process In Some cases, the speaker 122 is operatively coupled to other
ing units, or other Suitably configured computing element or modules, including, for example, input components 106, Such
elements. as a crown or button. In some implementations, the device
0077. The memory 104 can store electronic data that can 100 is configured to produce an audible output that corre
be used by the device 100. For example, a memory can store sponds to the operation of the crown or buttons using the
electrical data or content Such as, for example, audio and speaker 122. The microphone 124 may be configured to pro
Video files, documents and applications, device settings and duce an output or signal in response to an acoustic stimulus.
user preferences, timing and control signals or data for the For example, the microphone 124 may be operatively coupled
various modules, data structures or databases, and so on. The to the memory 104 and may be configured to record audio
memory 104 can be configured as any type of memory. By input, including human speech, music, or other sounds. In
way of example only, the memory can be implemented as Some cases, the microphone 124 may be configured to receive
random access memory, read-only memory, Flash memory, Voice signals, which may be interpreted as Voice commands
removable memory, or other types of storage elements, or by the processing units 102.
combinations of Such devices. 0080. The one or more communication channels 108 may
0078. In the schematic diagram of FIG. 2, the one or more include one or more wireless interface(s) that are adapted to
input components 106 are represented as a single item within provide communication between the processing unit(s) 102
the schematic diagram. However, input components 106 may and an external device. In general, the one or more commu
represent a number of different input components, including nication channels 108 may be configured to transmit and
buttons, Switches, and dials for accepting user input, and so receive data and/or signals that may be interpreted by instruc
on. More specifically, the input components 106 may corre tions executed on the processing units 102. In some cases, the
spond to the buttons, dials, crowns or other devices for receiv external device is part of an external communication network
ing input. Generally, the input components 106 are config that is configured to exchange data with wireless devices.
ured to translate a user-provided input into a signal or Generally, the wireless interface may include, without limi
instructions that may be accessed using instructions executed tation, radio frequency, optical, acoustic, and/or magnetic
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016

signals and may be configured to operate over a wireless I0085. The device 100 may also include one or more haptic
interface or protocol. Example wireless interfaces include devices 112. The haptic device 112 may include one or more
radio frequency cellular interfaces, fiber optic interfaces, of a variety of haptic technologies Such as, but not necessarily
acoustic interfaces, Bluetooth interfaces, infrared interfaces, limited to, rotational haptic devices, linear actuators, piezo
USB interfaces, Wi-Fi interfaces, TCP/IP interfaces, network electric devices, vibration elements, and so on. In general, the
communications interfaces, or any conventional communica haptic device 112 may be configured to provide punctuated
tion interfaces. and distinct feedback to a user of the device. More particu
0081. In some implementations, the one or more commu larly, the haptic device 112 may be adapted to produce a
nications channels 108 may include a dedicated wireless knock or tap sensation and/or a vibration sensation. As shown
communication channel between the device 100 and another in FIG. 2, the haptic device 112 may be operatively coupled to
user device. Such as a mobile phone, tablet, computer, or the the processing unit 102 and memory 104. In some embodi
like. In some cases, output, including audio Sounds or visual ments, the haptic device 112 may be directly controlled by the
display elements, are transmitted directly to the other user processing unit 102. In some embodiments, the haptic device
device for output to the user. For example, an audible alert or 112 may be controlled, at least in part, by the operation of an
visual warning may be transmitted to a user's mobile phone input component 106, including, for example, a button, dial,
for output on that device. Similarly, the one or more commu crown, or the like. The operation of the haptic device 112 may
nications channels 108 may be configured to receive user also be paired or linked to the operation of one or more other
input provided on another user device. In one example, the output devices, including, for example, the display 120 or the
user may control one or more operations on the device 100 speaker 122.
using a user interface on an external mobile phone, table, I0086. As shown in FIG. 2, the device 100 may include a
computer, or the like. battery 114 that is used to store and provide power to the other
components of the device 100. The battery 114 may be a
0082. Additionally, as described in more detail below with rechargeable power Supply that is configured to provide
respect to FIG. 17, the communications channels 108 may power to the device 100 while it is being worn by the user. The
include a Near Field Communication (NFC) interface. The device 100 may also be configured to recharge the battery 114
NFC interface may be used to identify the device and initiate using a wireless charging system. Accordingly, in some cases,
a secure data connection, which may be used to authorize the device may include a wireless power module 116 that may
transactions, purchases, or conduct other forms of e-com be configured to receive power from an external device or
CCC.
dock. The wireless power module 116 may be configured to
0083. As shown in FIG. 2, the device 100 also includes one deliver power to components of the device, including the
or more sensors 110 represented as a single item within the battery 114. The wireless power module 116 and an external
schematic diagram. However, the sensors 110 may represent charging station or dock may also be configured to transmit
a number of different sensors, including devices and compo data between the device and a base or host device. In some
nents that are configured to detect environmental conditions cases, the wireless power module 116 may interface with the
and/or other aspects of the operating environment. Example wireless charging station or dock to provide an authentication
sensors 110 include an ambient light sensor (ALS), proximity routine that is able to identify specific hardware, firmware, or
sensor, temperature sensor, barometric pressure sensor, mois software on the device in order to facilitate device mainte
ture sensor, and the like. Thus, the sensors 110 may also be nance or product updates. A more detailed description of an
used to compute an ambient temperature, air pressure, and/or example wireless charging station is provided below with
water ingress into the device. In some embodiments, the respect to FIGS. 18-19.
sensors 110 may include one or more motion sensors for I0087. The device 100 may include a variety of other com
detecting movement and acceleration of the device 100. The ponents, including for example, a camera or camera modules.
one or more motion sensors may include one or more of the The camera may be configured to capture an image of a scene
following: an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a tilt sensor, or or subject located within a field of view of the camera. The
other type of inertial measurement device. image may be stored in a digital file in accordance with any
0084. The device 100 also includes one or more biosensors one of a number of digital formats. In some embodiments, the
118 and may include optical and/or electronic biometric sen device 100 includes a camera, which includes an image sen
sors that may be used to compute one or more health metrics. sor formed from a charge-coupled device (CCD) and/or a
As described in more detail below with respect to FIG. 16, complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) device.
one or more of the biosensors 118 may include a light source The camera may also include one or more optical components
and a photodetector to form a photoplethysmography (PPG) disposed relative to the image sensor, including, for example,
sensor. The optical (e.g., PPG) sensor or sensors may be used a lens, an filter, a shutter, and so on.
to compute various health metrics including, without limita I0088 FIG. 3 depicts functional elements of the device
tion, a heart rate, a respiration rate, blood oxygenation level. 100, in accordance with some embodiments. In particular,
a blood Volume estimate, blood pressure, or a combination FIG.3 depicts the inputs that may be received and outputs that
thereof. One or more of the biosensors 118 may also be may be produced on an example device 100. By way of
configured to perform an electrical measurement using one or example, the device 100 may correspond to the devices shown
more electrodes. The electrical sensor(s) may be used to in FIGS. 1 and 2. As shown in FIG. 3, the device 100 may
measure electrocardiographic (ECG) characteristics, gal include a force input 302 that may be produced using a force
Vanic skin resistance, and other electrical properties of the sensor that is configured to detect and measure the magnitude
user's body. Additionally or alternatively, one or more of the of a force of a touch on a surface of the device. The force input
biosensors 118 may be configured to measure body tempera 302 may include a non-binary output that is generated in
ture, exposure to UV radiation, and other health-related infor response to a touch. For example, the force input 302 may
mation. include a range of values or analog value that corresponds to
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016

the amount of force exerted on a surface of the device. Addi audio input 314 may also be adapted to detect and measure
tionally or alternatively, the force input 302 may include ambient audio conditions that may be used to adjust the
binary (e.g., on, off) output in response to the force of a touch. volume of the audio output 308 or operation of the haptic
The force input 302 may be used to control various aspects of output 312. The audio input 314 may also be used to recordan
the device. For example, the force input 302 may be used to audio stream or voice message in accordance with an audio
control an aspect, Such as a cursor or item selection on a user recording application or Software program.
interface presented on the display of the device. The force (0093. As shown in FIG. 3, the device 100 may include a
input 302 may also be used to control the audio output 308, display output 304 in accordance with some embodiments.
haptic output 312, and other functionality of the device. The The display output 304 includes visual or graphical output
force input 302 may also be used to distinguish between that may be produced using the display element of the device.
different types of input from the user. For example, a light In some embodiments, the display output 304 includes a
touch from the user may be interpreted as a scroll command graphical user interface produced using an operating system
and used to index or Scroll through a list of items on the or software application executed on one or more processing
display. A harder touch from the user may be interpreted as a units of the device. In one example, the display output 304
selection or confirmation of an item on the display. In some includes a graphical depiction that resembles a watch face or
embodiments, the force input 302 is used to distinguish an other timekeeping device. In other examples, the display out
intentional touch from the user from an incidental or acciden put 304 includes a graphical interface for an e-mail, text
tal touch that may be ignored. messaging, or other communication-oriented program. The
I0089. As shown in FIG.3, the device 100 may also include display output 304 may also present visual information that
a touch input 306 that may be produced using a touch sensor corresponds to one of the other functional aspects of the
that is configured to detect and measure the location of a touch device 100. For example, the display output 304 may include
on a surface of the device. In some implementations, the information that corresponds to the biosensor input 320, sen
touch sensor is a capacitive-based touch sensor that is dis sor input 318, force input 302, touch input 306, and others.
posed relative to the display or display stack of the device. (0094. As shown in FIG. 3 the device 100 may include an
The touch sensor may be a separate non-integrated sensor audio output 308 that may be produced with a speaker or
relative to the force sensor. In alternative embodiments, the acoustic module. The audio output 308 may include sounds or
touch sensor may also be physically and/or logically inte audio signals that are associated with the operation of the
grated with the force sensor to produce a combined output. device. For example, the audio output 308 may correspond to
The touch input 306 may be used to control various aspects of the operation of an input device to provide audio feedback to
the device. For example, the touch input 306 may be used to the user. For example the audio output 308 may correspond to
control anaspect of the user interface presented on the display an input received in the form of a force input 302, touch input
of the device. The touch input 306 may also be used to control 306, and/or button/dial input 310. In some cases, the audio
the audio output 308, haptic output 312, and other function output 308 may also include a portion of an auditory alert that
ality of the device. may be produced alone or combined with a haptic output 312
0090. In some cases, the logical integration of the force and/or display output 304 of the device 100.
input 302 and the touch input 306 enhances the versatility or (0095. The device 100 may also include a sensor input 318
adaptability of device 100 by enabling a more sophisticated produced using one or more sensors that may be configured to
user interface than is currently available on Some traditional monitor and detect various environmental conditions. For
wearable devices. In particular, the force input 302 and the example, the sensor input 318 may include signals or data
touch input 306 may be combined to interpreta wider range of produced using an ambient light sensor, proximity sensor,
gestures and input commands than may be possible using, for temperature sensor, barometric pressure sensor, or other sen
example, only a touch input. For example, the force input 302 sor for monitoring environmental conditions Surrounding or
may provide a magnitude of a force of a touch, which may be near the device. In general, the sensor input 318 may be used
used to distinguish between two touch input commands that to adapt the functionality of the device 100 to conform to the
have a similar location or gesture path. An improved touch one or more environmental conditions. For example, the
interface using both force input 302 and touch input 306 may brightness of the display output 304, the volume of the audio
be particularly advantageous when interpreting touch com output 308, and/or the operation of the input to the device 100
mands on a relatively small area surface, such as a display may be based on the sensor input 318.
screen or cover glass of a wearable electronic device. 0096. In some embodiments, the sensor input 318 includes
0091. As shown in FIG.3, the device 100 may also include input produced by one or more motion sensors. The motion
a button/dial input 310 that may be produced using an input sensors may include one or more of the following: an accel
device that is configured to receive input from the user. As erometer, a gyroscope, a tilt sensor, or other type of inertial
described previously, the device 100 may include one or more measurement device. A sensor input 318 produced using one
buttons disposed on or near an external Surface of the housing or more motion sensors may be used to monitor and detect
and are configured to receive input from a user. The device changes in motion of the device 100. Changes in linear and
may also include a dial or crown that is configured to accept angular motion may be used to determine or estimate an
rotational input from the user. As described in more detail orientation of the device relative to a known location or fixed
below with respect to FIGS. 24A-B, the dial or crown may datum. The sensor input 318 produced from the one or more
also include a push feature that is adapted to accept input from motion sensors may also be used to track the movement of the
the user. user. The movement of the user may be used to facilitate
0092. The device 100 may also accept audio input 314 navigation or map-guided functionality of the device. Addi
using a microphone or other acoustic sensing device. The tionally, input related to the gross movement of the user can
audio input 314 may be adapted to accept input from the user, be used as a pedometer or activity meter, which may be stored
including Voice commands and other audio signal input. The and tracked over time to determine health metrics or other
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016

health-related information. Additionally, in some embodi interfaces, USB interfaces, Wi-Fi interfaces, TCP/IP inter
ments, sensor input 318 from the one or more motion sensors faces, network communications interfaces, or any conven
may be used to identify motion gestures. For example, the tional communication interfaces. In some cases, the commu
motion sensors can be used to detect an arm raise or the nications I/O 316 may include signals and data received from
position of a user's body (within a predetermined confidence an external device that has been paired or is otherwise in
level of certainty). electronic communication with the device 100. The external
0097. The device 100 may also include a biosensor input data included in the communications I/O 316 may include, for
320 produced using one or more biosensors or biosensor example, message data associated with an electronic commu
modules that are configured to monitor physiological and/or nication, notification data associated with an event, and/or
health conditions of a user. As discussed above with respect to data related to audio or visual content. The communications
FIG. 2, the device may include one or more optical sensors for I/O 316 may also include an authorization or identification of
measuring heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen Saturation, or a external devices in communication with the device 100 or
combination thereof. The device may also include one or users associated with one or more external devices. Similarly,
more sensors having electrical contacts that are disposed to the communications I/O 316 may be used to output various
contact the user's body. The sensors may be configured to forms of data or signals to one or more devices or systems that
measure electrocardiographic (ECG) characteristics, gal are external to the device 100. For example, the communica
Vanic skin resistance, and other electrical properties of the tions I/O 316 may include data or computations that are
user's body. Additionally or alternatively, sensors may be produced using the biosensor input 320 and/or the sensor
configured to measure body temperature, exposure to UV input 318.
radiation, and other health related information. The biosensor 0101 FIG. 4 depicts an example wearable electronic
input 320 may be combined with other aspects of the device device 100 as part of a system of devices. By way of example,
to provide heath-monitoring functionality. For example, the the wearable electronic device 100 of FIG. 4 may correspond
biosensor input 320 may be used to compute data that is to the devices shown in any of the previous figures. Generally,
presented using the display output 304. The operation of the the wearable electronic device 100 may communicate wire
biosensor input 320 may also be controlled using the force lessly with any of a number of other devices, such as mobile
input 302, touch input 306, or other user input 310 to provide phone 420, computer 430, tablet computing devices, personal
an interactive health monitoring function or application. media players, televisions, networked home appliances, net
0098. As shown in FIG. 3, the device may include a haptic worked home controls, electronic systems in vehicles, and so
output 312 that may be produced using one or more haptic on. Additionally, the wearable electronic device 100 may
devices that are configured to provide haptic feedback to the communicate wirelessly with any of a number of electronic
user. In particular, the haptic output 312 may be produced accessories, including headset devices, portable speaker
using one or more electromechanical Subassemblies that are devices, portable microphone devices, display Screens, and so
configured to induce motion or vibration in the device, which on. Communication may be through a wired or wireless con
may be perceived or sensed by the user. In some cases, the nection, including any technology mentioned herein.
haptic actuator or device is tuned to operate based on a reso 0102. In some embodiments the wearable electronic
nance or near resonance with respect to the device, which may device 100 may accept a variety of bands, straps, or other
enhance haptic output. In some cases, the haptic actuator or retention mechanisms (collectively, “bands'). These bands
device is configured to operate based on a resonance or near may be removably connected to the electronic device by a
resonance with respect to some components of the device, feature formed into the band or band assembly that is
such as the band or clasp of the device. accepted in a recess or other aperture within the device and
0099. In some embodiments, the haptic output 312 may locks thereto. An example band interface is described in more
correspond to the operation of one or more other modules or detail below with respect to FIGS. 25A-C.
Subsystems. For example, the haptic output 312 may include
a vibration or haptic feedback that corresponds to an audio 0103. In general, a user may change combinations of
alert or visual alert or signal produced by the acoustic module bands and electronic devices, thereby permitting mixing and
or display, respectively. Additionally or alternatively, the hap matching of the two categories. It should be appreciated that
tic output 312 may be operated in conjunction with an input devices having other forms and/or functions may include
from the user. The haptic output 312 may include haptic or similar recesses and may releasably mate with a lug and/or
force feedback that confirms that the user input was or is band incorporating a lug. In this fashion, a system of bands
being received. By way of example, a haptic output 312 may and devices may be envisioned, each of which is compatible
include a click or vibration when the crown of the device is with another. A single band may be used to connect to
turned or a button is depressed. The haptic output 312 may devices, as one further example; in Such embodiments the
also be coordinated with other functionality of the device band may include electrical interconnections that permit the
including, for example, message transmission operations, two devices to transmit signals to one another and thereby
power management operations, force sensor operations, bio interact with one another.
sensor operations, to provide a notification, to provide an 0104 Insofar as the electronic device 100 may connect
alert, and others. either physically or through a data communication link with
0100. As shown in FIG.3, the device 100 may also include other computing devices, the combination of devices and
communications input/output (I/O)316, which may facilitate bands may be thought of as an ecosystem having multiple
communication with an external device or system. The com parts that interact with one another, may intelligently com
munications I/O 316 may be produced using one or more municate with one another, may share functionality and/or
wireless interfaces, including radio frequency cellular inter may substitute for one another in terms of operations, output,
faces, fiber optic interfaces, acoustic interfaces, Bluetooth input and the like. Examples of devices existing in Such an
interfaces, Near Field Communication interfaces, infrared ecosystem follow, but are illustrative rather that limiting.
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016

0105. As one example, a number of electronic devices formed in one end of the device body. The mating feature 502
100, 420, 430 may each have identical or similar attachment of a respective band or component may be configured to
structures that permit them to share a band or connector. A slidably engage with the receiving feature 504 of a respective
user may thus change the interconnected band and device(s) device body to attach the band or component. An example
with respect to one another, permitting a number of different receiving feature is described in more detail below with
physical connections between different ecosystem compo respect to FIGS. 25A-C. In some embodiments, the receiving
nents. In some embodiments, a band that serves to retain an feature 504 and the mating feature 502 are standardized in the
electronic device only may be Swapped for bands having system 500 and, thus, any of the bands (551a-b, 552a-b,
additional functionalities, such as transmitting data between 553a-b, 554a–b, and 555a-b) can be interchangeably used
devices connected to the band, adding functionality to a con with any of the device bodies 515,525,535.
nected device that the device lacks, providing additional 0111. With respect to FIG. 5, each of the bands may be
power to a connected device, and so on. Further, different formed from a different material or using a different construc
bands may look different, so that the appearance of the elec tion. In the present example, bands 551a-b may be formed
tronic device(s) in combination with aband(s) may change by from a textile material that may be constructed from a pattern
changing the band(s) and/or device(s) with respect to one of thread or fiber material. The textile material may include a
another.
variety of materials, including natural fibers, synthetic fibers,
0106. As another example, electronic devices 100, 420, metallic fibers, and so on. The bands 552a-b may be formed
430 may communicate with one another as part of the overall from a woven material and may be constructed from an array
ecosystem. Data may be passed from one device 420 to of warp fibers or threads interwoven with one or more weft
another 100. This may be useful if the user 410 is wearing one fibers or threads. Similarly, the warp and weft fibers may
electronic device 100 but is not near another device 430 that include a variety of materials, including natural fibers, Syn
wishes to notify the user or interact with the user in some thetic fibers, metallic fibers, and so on. The bands 553a-b may
fashion. Continuing the example, the computer 430 may beformed from leather material 553a-b. In one example, the
transmit a reminder or message to the wearable device 100 to bands 553a-b are formed from a sheet or strip of cowhide;
gain the users attention. As another example, the computer however, the bands 553a-b may also be formed from one of
430 (or any other electronic device in the ecosystem) may any number of types of animal hide. The leather material
transmit a state of an application or even the device itself to 553a-b may also include a synthetic leather material, such as
the wearable device 100. Thus, for example, if an application vinyl or plastic. The bands 554a–b may be formed from a
operating on the computer needs the user's attention, it may metallic mesh or link construction. For example the bands
begained through an alert issued by the wearable device. 554a–b may beformed from a Milanese mesh or other similar
0107 Data communication between devices in an ecosys type of construction. The bands 555a-b may be formed from
tem may also permit the devices to share functionality. As one a silicone or other elastomer material.
non-limiting example, electronic devices may share sensor
data with one another to permit one device access to data it 0112 In some cases, the band is a composite construction
normally would not have, from a sensor it does not physically including various materials, which may be selected based on
incorporate. Thus, any given device 100, 420, 430 may draw the end use or application. In some embodiments, a first band
on the abilities of other devices in the ecosystem to provide an strap, or a first portion of the first band strap, may be made up
enhanced and relatively seamless experience for a user 410. of a first material and a second band strap, or a second portion
0108 FIG.5 depicts a system 500 of interchangeable com of the second band strap, may be made from a second, differ
ponents for a wearable device. By way of example, one or ent material. The band may also be made up of a plurality of
more of the devices of FIG.5 may correspond to the devices links and, as such, the band may be resizable by, for example,
shown in any of the previous figures. FIG.5 depicts a system adding or removing links. Example bands and band construc
500 including a variety of interchangeable components, tions are provided below in Section 12.
including multiple device bodies 515, 525,535 that are con 0113. In the system 500, an interchangeable band may
figured to connect via a standard interface to any one of a allow for individual customization of the device or to better
number of different bands 551a-b, 552a-b, 553a-b, 554a–b, adapt the device for a range of uses or applications. In some
and 555a-b. In addition, each of the three devices may be instances, the type of band that is selected and installed can
configured to connect via a standard interface to another type facilitate a particular user activity. For example, band 551a-b
of non-band component, Such as a lug 556a-b, non-band may be formed from a textile material and include a durable
component, or other device. clasp that may be particularly well suited for exercise or
0109. As shown in FIG. 5, the system 500 may include a outdoor activities. Alternatively, as discussed above the band
body or device that is adapted to attach to one or more bands, 554a–b may be formed from a metallic material and include a
straps, or other similar component that may be used to attach thin or low-profile clasp that may be well suited for more
the device to the body of a user. In some embodiments, the formal or fashion-focused activities.
device may be interchangeable or interchanged to provide a 0114. In some embodiments, the band may be coupled to
different set of functions or features. In some embodiments, a separate component having the mating feature 502. The
the bands or attachment components may be interchangeable band may be coupled using pins, holes, adhesives, screws,
or interchanged to provide desired functionality or features. and so on. In yet other embodiments, the band may be co
0110. In the example depicted in FIG. 5, each of the molded or overmolded with at least a portion of the compo
devices includes at least one receiving feature 504 that is nent having the mating feature 502. In some embodiments,
configured to interconnect with a corresponding feature 502 the band is coupled to the component via a pin that allows the
that is attached to or integrally formed with the end of each of straps to rotate with respect to the component. The pin may be
the bands or other mating parts. In some embodiments, formed integrally with or disposed in a loop formed in the end
receiving feature 504 includes a channel or groove that is of the band.
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016

0115. In the example system 500, each of the bands is I0120. In the example of FIG. 6, the device 100 includes a
shown as having a generic band clasp. However, the type of display (item 120 of FIG. 2) that is disposed at least partially
band clasp that is used may vary between embodiments. On within an opening or cavity defined within a top portion of the
example band clasp may include a first band strap having a housing 601 of the device body 610. The display may be
buckle or tangassembly which is configured to interface with formed from a liquid crystal display (LCD), organic light
a second band strap having a series of apertures or holes emitting diode (OLED) display, organic electroluminescence
formed with the strap. Additionally or alternatively, the bands (OEL) display, or other type of display device. The display
may include a magnetic clasp having one or more magnetic may be used to present visual information to the user and may
elements on a first band strap that is configured to mate to one be operated in accordance with one or more display modes or
or more magnetic or ferromagnetic elements on a second the software applications being executed on the device 100.
band strap. By way of example, the display may be configured to present
0116. As shown in FIG. 5, the system may include mul the current time and date similar to a traditional watch or
tiple device bodies 515,525,535 that may vary in size, shape, timepiece. The display may also present a variety of other
and composition. The device body 515,525,535 may include visual information that may correspond to or be produced
one or more of the embodiments described herein and may using one of the other modules in the device 100. For
include, but is not limited to a wearable computer, a wearable example, the display may be configured to display one of a
watch, a wearable communication device, a wearable media variety of notification messages, which may be generated
player, a wearable health monitoring device, and/or the like. based on data received from the one or more sensors, the
In particular, the device body may correspond to the device wireless communication system, or other Subsystem of the
body described with respect to device body 610 of device 100 device 100. The display may also be configured to present
(shown in FIG. 6). visual information ordata that is based on the output of one or
more sensor outputs. The display may also provide status or
1. Example Wearable Electronic Device information related to a wireless charging process or battery
power. The display may also present visual output or infor
0117 FIG. 6 depicts an example wearable electronic mation related to media being produced using a speaker or
device, which may include various aspects of the device(s) acoustic module of the device 100. Accordingly, a variety of
described above. In some embodiments, multiple modules or other types of visual output or information may be presented
Subsystems are physically and operationally integrated using the display.
together to provide particular functionality or device features. 0121. In the current example, the display includes or is
In particular, the interaction between the subsystems, or the integrated with a cover 609 that helps to protect the display
Subsystems themselves, may be configurable by the user, from physical impact or scratches. In the field of wearable
manufacturer, or vendor to adapt the device to produce certain devices, the cover 609 may also be referred to generically as
functionality. Some example combinations and interactions a crystal or cover glass, regardless of the material that is used
between the various modules and Subsystems are expressly to form the cover 609. In some cases, the cover 609 is formed
provided in the present description. However, the combina from a sheet or block of Sapphire material. Sapphire may
tions and interactions provided herein are merely illustrative provide Superior optical and Surface hardness properties as
in nature and are not intended to be limiting on the scope of compared to other materials. In some cases, the Sapphire
the disclosure. material has a hardness of approximately 9 on the Mohs scale.
0118 FIG. 6 depicts an example configuration of a wear In alternative embodiments, the cover 609 is formed from a
able electronic device 100. In particular, FIG. 6 depicts an glass, polycarbonate, or other optically transparent material.
electronic wearable device 100 including a device body 610 The cover 609 may also be coated with one or more optical or
that may be configured to be attached to the wrist of a user mechanical enhancing materials or Surface treatments. For
using a band assembly 620. This configuration may also be example, interior and/or exterior surfaces of the cover 609
referred to hereinas a wearable device, a device, an electronic may be coated with an anti-reflective (AR), oleophobic or
wristwatch, or an electronic watch. While these terms may be other coating to enhance the visible or functional properties
used with respect to certain embodiments, the functionality of the display. Additionally, in some cases, the cover 609 may
provided by the example electronic wearable device 100 may be configured to cooperate with an antenna used to facilitate
be substantially greater than or vary with respect to many wireless communication with an external device. FIGS. 21A
traditional electronic watches or timekeeping devices. B, described in more detail below, provide one example
0119. In the present example, the exterior surface of the embodiment of a cover configured to cooperate with an
antenna.
device body 610 is defined, in part, by the exterior surface of
the housing 601 and the exterior surface of the cover 609. In I0122) In the example depicted in FIG. 6, the cover 609 is
the example depicted in FIG. 6, the device body 610 is sub formed from a transparent material and, when assembled has
stantially rectangular with round or curved side portions. The an external surface and an internal surface. The cover 609 is
outer surfaces of the cover 609 and the housing 601 coincide disposed above the display and encloses a cavity or opening
at a joint interface and cooperate to form a continuous con formed in the top portion of the housing 601. In some embodi
toured Surface. The continuous contoured surface may have a ments, the external surface of the cover 609 cooperates with
constant radius and may be tangent to a flat middle portion of the external surface of the housing to form a substantially
the cover 609 and/or a flat bottom portion of the housing 601. continuous external peripheral Surface of the electronic
In some embodiments, the cover 609 has substantially the device. As shown in FIG. 6, the external surface of the cover
same shape as a flat bottom portion and at least a portion of the 609 has a flat middle portion at the center of the cover, which
curved side portions of the housing 601. A more complete extends outwardly. The cover 609 also includes a curved edge
description of the geometry of the cover 609 and the housing portion that emanates from and Surrounds the flat middle
601 is provided below with respect to FIGS. 7 and 8. portion and extends outwardly to an edge at the side of the
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016

cover 609. In some embodiments, the cover 609 also includes detail below, a capacitive force sensor may be configured to
an opaque mask disposed relative to the internal Surface of the detect the magnitude of a touch based on the displacement of
transparent cover. The opaque mask may correspond to or a surface or element on the device. Additionally or alterna
otherwise define the viewable area of the display 120. The tively, a strain-based force sensor may be configured to detect
mask may have an outer boundary that is located proximate the magnitude of a touch based on the deflection. Example
the edge of the side of the cover 609 and has an inner bound force sensor and force-sensing modules are described in more
ary located within the curved edge portion of the cover 609. detail below with respect to FIGS. 9-12.
0123. As shown in FIG. 6, the cover 609 is disposed rela 0128. As shown in FIG. 6, the device 100 also includes
tive to a top portion of the housing 601. The housing 601 device body 610 including a housing 601 that upon which
includes a top portion defining an opening, which is Sur may be mounted or integrated with various components of the
rounded by a curved side portion. In the present example, the device 100. The housing 601 serves to surround at a periph
curved edge portion of the cover 609 coincides with the eral region as well as Support the internal components of the
curved side portion of the housing 601 to form a continuous product in their assembled position. In some embodiments,
external surface of the electronic device 100. In some the housing 601 may enclose and Support internally various
instances, the cover 609 may have a contour that follows or components (including for example integrated circuit chips
otherwise corresponds to a similar contour of the housing 601 and other circuitry) to provide computing and functional
to form a Substantially continuous Surface at the interface operations for the device 100. The housing 601 may also help
between the two components. As shown in FIG. 6, the cover define the shape or form of the device. That is, the contour of
609 protrudes above the housing 601. the housing 601 may embody the outward physical appear
0.124. In some instances, the cover 609 is disposed relative ance of the device. As such, it may include various ornamental
to a touch sensor (item 702 of FIG. 7). In some embodiments, and mechanical features that improve the aesthetical appear
the touch sensor may be integrated with the display or other ance and tactile feel of the device. For example, the housing
element of the device 100. The touch sensor may be formed 601 may include a contoured surface that includes rectilinear
from one or more capacitive sensor electrodes or nodes that contours, curvilinear contours, or combinations thereof. The
are configured to detect the presence and/or location of an housing 601 may also include various Surface features,
object or the user's finger that is touching or nearly touching including textures, patterns, decorative elements, and so on.
the Surface of the display. In some cases, the touch sensor I0129. In the present example, the housing 601 is formed
includes an array of sensing nodes formed in accordance with from a single piece, which may also be referred to as single
a mutual capacitance sensing scheme. body, unitary, or uni-body design or construction. By utilizing
0.125. In one example, the touch sensor may include an a single-body construction, the structural integrity of the
array of mutual capacitance touch nodes that can be formed device may be improved as compared to a multi-piece con
by a two-layer electrode structure separated by a dielectric struction. For example, a single body may be more easily
material. One layer of electrodes may comprise a plurality of sealed from contaminants as compared to a multi-piece
drive lines and another layer of electrodes may comprise a enclosure. Additionally, a single-body enclosure may be
plurality of sense lines, and where the drive lines and the more rigid due, in part, to the absence of joints or seams. The
sense lines cross, mutual capacitive sense nodes are formed rigidity of the housing 601 may be further enhanced by
(also referred to as coupling capacitance). In some implemen increasing the material thickness in areas where mechanical
tations, the drive lines and sense lines may cross over each stress may be greatest, while also maintaining or thinning
other in different planes separated from one another by a other areas where mechanical stress may be lower or reduced.
dielectric. Alternatively, in other embodiments the drive lines Variations in the thickness of the housing 601 may be possible
and sense lines can be formed Substantially on a single layer. by machining or casting the housing 601 as a single piece.
An example touch sensor and touch-sensing node are Additionally, a single-body housing 601 may include one or
described in more detail below with respect to FIGS. 14A-C more features for mounting or integrating the internal com
and 15A-B. ponents of the device 100, which may facilitate manufactur
0126 Alternatively or additionally, the touch sensor may ing and/or assembly of the device 100.
include one or more self-capacitive nodes or electrodes that 0.130. An example housing 601 is described in more detail
are configured to detect a discharge of electrical current or below with respect to FIG.8. The housing 601 may beformed
charge when an object, Such as a user's finger, contacts or from a variety of materials, including, without limitation
nearly contacts a surface of the housing 601 or other surface plastic, glass, ceramics, fiber composites, metal (e.g., stain
of the device 100. Other types of electronically sensing nodes, less steel, aluminum, magnesium), other Suitable materials,
including resistive, inductive, or the like, may also be inte or a combination of these materials. Further, the housing 601
grated into a surface of the device 100. may include a Surface treatment or coating, which may be
0127. In some embodiments, the device 100 may also formed from a variety of materials, including, without limi
include a force sensor (item 705 of FIG. 7). The force sensor tation aluminum, Steel, gold, silver and other metals, metal
may be disposed relative to the display 120 or integrated with alloys, ceramics, wood, plastics, glasses, and the like.
other elements of the device 100. In some cases, the force I0131. As discussed above, the display, the touch sensor,
sensor includes one or more force sensing structures or force and force sensor may be disposed within the housing 601. In
sensing nodes for detecting and measuring the magnitude of this example, one or more buttons 644 and a crown 642 used
a force or pressure due to a touch on a Surface of the device to receive user input may also be disposed within or relative to
100. The force sensor may be formed from or implement one the housing 601. Other types of user input, including for
or more types of sensor configurations. For example, capaci example, one or more dials, slides, or similar user input
tive and/or strain based sensor configurations may be used devices or mechanisms may also be disposed within or rela
alone or in combination to detect and measure the magnitude tive to the housing 601. As described in more detail with
of a force or pressure due to a touch. As described in more respect to FIGS. 7 and 8, the housing 601 may include various
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016

features for attaching and mounting the Subassemblies and 0135. As shown in FIG. 6, the device 100 includes a device
modules of the device 100. In particular, the housing 601 may body 610 that may be attached to a user's wrist using a band
have one or more openings for receiving the cover 609, the 620. In the present example, the band 620 include a first band
display, the force sensor, or other components. The housing strap 621 attached to a first receiving feature 623 and a second
601 may also include one or more holes or openings for band strap 622 attached to a second receiving feature 624. In
receiving the button 644 and crown 642 that are located some embodiments, the first and second band straps 621, 622
around the perimeter of the device 100. In some embodi include a lug feature that is configured to attach to the first and
ments, the housing 601 also includes internal features, such as second receiving features 623,624, respectively. As shown in
bosses and threaded portions, that can be used to attach mod FIG. 6, the free ends of the band straps 621, 622 are connected
ules or components within the housing 601. with a clasp 625.
0132) The device 100 may also include an ambient light I0136. The band straps 621, 622 are formed from a flexible
sensor (ALS) that is configured to detect and measure or compliant material that may be specially configured for a
changes in ambient lighting conditions. The ALS may include particular application. The band straps 621, 622 may be
a photodiode and one or more optical elements or lenses for formed from a variety of materials, including, for example,
collecting light. An ALS may be located on an external facing leather, woven textiles, or metallic mesh materials. The mate
surface that is less likely to be blocked when the device is rial and construction of the band straps 621, 622 may depend
worn or in use. The ALS may be used to adjust settings, on the application. For example, the band straps 621, 622 may
including screen brightness and other visual output depend beformed from a woven textile material configured for expo
ing on the overall lighting conditions. Sure to impact and moisture typically associated with outdoor
activities. In another example, the band straps 621, 622 may
0133. The housing 601 may also include one or more be formed from a metallic mesh material that may be config
motion-sensing elements or devices for detecting motion of ured to have a fine finish and construction that may be more
the device 100. For example, the device 100 may include one appropriate for professional or social activities.
or more accelerometers that are configured to sense accelera I0137 Similarly, the clasp 625 of the band 620 may be
tion or changes in motion. Additionally or alternatively, the configured for a particular application or to work with a
device 100 may include one or more gyroscopic sensors that particular style of band. For example, if the band straps 621,
are configured to detect changes in direction. In some cases, 622 are formed from a metallic mesh material, the clasp 625
the one or more gyroscopic sensors may include a spinning may include a magnetic clasp mechanism. In the present
mass that can be used to detect changes in angular velocity. example, the device 100 is configured to be attached to the
Multiple motion-sensing elements may be used to detect wrist of a user. However, in alternative embodiments, the
motion along multiple directions or axes. The motion sensors device may be configured to be attached to the arm, leg or
may also be used to identify motion gestures. For example, other body part of the user.
the motion sensors can be used to detect an arm raise or the
position of a user's body (within a predetermined confidence 0.138. The housing 601 includes one or more features for
attaching the band straps 621, 622. In the present example, the
level of certainty). The one or more motion-sensing elements housing 601 includes a first receiving feature 623 and a sec
may be used to determine an orientation of the device relative ond receiving feature 624 for attaching the first band strap 621
to a known or fixed datum. For example, the device may and the second band strap 622, respectively. In this example,
include a compass and/or global positioning system (GPS) the band straps 621, 622 include a lug portion that is adapted
that can be used to identify an absolute position. The one or to mechanically engage with the receiving features 623, 624.
more motion sensing elements may then measure deviation or A more detailed description of the receiving features and lugs
movement with respect to the absolute position to track is provided below with respect to FIGS. 25A-C. As shown in
movement of the device or the user wearing the device. In FIG. 6, the first 623 and second receiving features 624 may be
Some implementations, the one or more motion-sensing ele integrally formed into the housing 601. In alternative embodi
ments are used to detect gross movement of the device or user. ments, the receiving features may be formed from separate
The gross movement may be used as a pedometer or activity parts and may be attached to the housing 601 during manu
meter, which may be tracked over time and used to calculate facturing. In some embodiments, the receiving features 623,
a health metric or other health-related information. 624 may be configured to release the band straps 621, 622
0134. Described in more detail with respect to FIG. 8, the from the device body 610 (e.g., the housing 601). For
housing 601 may also include one or more openings or ori example, one or both of the receiving features 623, 624 may
fices coupled to an acoustic module or speaker 122, which include abutton or slide, which may be actuated by the user to
may include a speaker and/or a microphone Subassembly. release a corresponding band strap 621 and 622. One advan
Although the housing 601 may include one or more openings tage of a releasable lug is that the user can Swap between a
or orifices, the housing 601 may still be substantially water variety of bands that may be specially configured for a par
proof water resistant and may be substantially impermeable ticular use scenario. For example, Some bands may be spe
to liquids. For example, the opening or orifice in the housing cially configured for sport or athletic activities and other
or enclosure may include a membrane or mesh that is Sub bands may be configured for more formal or professional
stantially impermeable to liquid ingress. Additionally or activities.
alternatively, the geometry of the opening or orifice and other (0.139. The device 100 may also include a rear cover 608
internal features of the housing 601 may be configured to located on the rear-facing surface of the housing 601 of the
reduce or impede the ingress of liquid or moisture into the device body 610. The rear cover 608 may improve the
device 100. In one example, the opening is formed from one strength and/or scratch resistance of the Surface of the device
or more orifices that are offset with respect to an internal 100. For example, in some embodiments, the rear cover 608
acoustic chamber or cavity, which may prevent a direct path may be formed from a Sapphire sheet, Zirconia, or alumina
from the outside of the housing 601 into the acoustic module. material having Superior scratch resistance and Surface finish
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016

qualities. In some cases, the Sapphire material has a hardness an optically clear adhesive layer (OCA). Similarly, an OCA
greater than 6 on the Mohs scale. In some cases, the Sapphire layer is used to attach the touch sensor 702 to the cover 609.
material has a hardness of approximately 9 on the Mohs scale. Other adhesives or bonding techniques may be used to attach
Due to the Superior strength of the Sapphire material, a cover the display 120 and the touch sensor 702 to the cover 609. In
glass formed from a sapphire sheet may be very thin. For some embodiments, the touch sensor 702 is integrated into
example, the thickness of a Sapphire cover sheet may be less the display 120 and the display 120 (and integrated touch
300 microns thick. In some cases, the thickness of a Sapphire sensor 702) are attached to the cover 609.
cover sheet may be less than 100 microns thick. In some 0144. As shown in FIG.7, the speaker 122 is also disposed
cases, the thickness of a Sapphire cover sheet may be less than within the cavity of the housing 601. The speaker 122 is
50 microns thick. In some embodiments, the rear cover 608 is adapted to mechanically and acoustically interface with a port
contoured in shape. For example, the rear cover 608 may have formed in the side of the housing 601. In some embodiments,
a convex curved surface. the port is configured to prevent a direct path for water or
0140 FIG.7 depicts an example exploded view of various liquid into an acoustic chamber or cavity of the speaker 122.
modules and subassemblies of the device 100. As shown in In some embodiments, the device 100 also includes a micro
FIG. 7, multiple components are configured to be disposed phone that is similarly coupled to another port formed in the
within and/or attached to the housing 601. The exploded view side of the housing 601. A more detailed description of the
provided in FIG. 7 depicts one example arrangement of the speaker 122 and microphone is provided below with respect
components of the device 100. However, in other embodi to the acoustic module of FIG. 20.
ments, arrangement, placement, and/or grouping of the Sub 0145. In the present example, the haptic device 112 is also
assemblies and the components of the Subassemblies may disposed within the cavity of the housing 601 proximate to the
vary. speaker 122. In some embodiments, the haptic device 112 is
0141. In the present example, a main cavity of the housing rigidly mounted to a portion of the housing 601. A rigid
601 houses an electronics subassembly 720 and the battery mounting between the housing 601 and the haptic device 112
114 of the device. The electronics subassembly 720 includes may facilitate the transmission of vibrations or other energy
one or more electrical circuit assemblies for coupling the produced by the haptic device 112 to the user. In the present
various electrical components of the device 100 to each other example, the haptic device 112 includes a moving mass that is
and to power supplied by the battery 114. The electronics configured to oscillate or translate in a direction that is Sub
subassembly 720 may also include structural elements or stantially parallel with a rear face of the housing 601. In some
components that provide structural rigidity for the electronics implementations, this orientation facilitates the perception of
subassembly 720 and/or structural mounting or support for a haptic output produced by the haptic device 112 by a user
other components disposed within the housing 601. As shown wearing the device 100. While this configuration is provided
in FIG. 7, within the cavity of the housing 601, the speaker as one example, in other implementations, the haptic device
122, the crown module 642, and the battery 114 are all dis 112 may be placed in a different orientation or may be con
posed above the electronics subassembly 720. In the present figured to produce a haptic response using a rotating mass or
embodiment the top surface of the speaker 122, the crown other type of moving mass.
module 642, and the battery 114 have a substantially similar 0146. As shown in FIG. 7, the device also includes an
height. In some embodiments, the speaker 122, the crown antenna subassembly 722. In this example, a portion of the
module 642, and the battery 114, when assembled in the antenna subassembly 722 is disposed within the housing 601
housing 601, define an area for the display 120 within the and a portion of the antenna subassembly 722 is disposed
cavity. Thus, as shown in FIG. 7, the display 120 may overlay within the cover assembly. In some implementations, a por
the speaker 122, the crown module 642, and the battery 114, tion of the antenna subassembly 722 is disposed relative to a
which overlay the electronics subassembly 720. feature formed within the cover 609. An example embodi
0142. As shown in FIG. 7, the cover 609 is configured to fit ment is described in more detail below with respect to FIGS.
within a corresponding recess formed within the housing 601. 21A-B.
In particular, the cover 609 includes a vertical portion having 0147 In the example depicted in FIG. 7, the device 100
a height that corresponds to the depth of the recess formed also includes a crown module 642 which is disposed in an
within the housing 601. In this example, the device 100 aperture or hole in the housing 601. When installed, a portion
includes a force sensor 705 disposed between the housing 601 of the crown module 642 is located outside of the housing 601
and a cover subassembly 704. As described in more detail and a portion of the crown module 642 is disposed within the
below with respect to FIGS. 9 and 10A-B, the force sensor housing 601. The crown module 642 may be configured to
705 may be configured to detect a force placed on a surface of mechanically and/or electrically cooperate with the electron
the cover 609 by detecting a relative deflection between the ics subassembly 720. A more detailed description of an
cover 609 (or cover subassembly 704) and the housing 601. In example crown module is provided below with respect to
the present example, the force sensor 705 also forms a gasket FIGS. 23 and 24A-B. The housing 601 also includes a button
or seal between the cover subassembly 704 and the housing 644, which is disposed in an opening of the housing 601 and
601. In some implementations, the seal is a water-proof or may be configured to mechanically and/or electrically coop
water-resistant seal that helps to prevent water or liquid erate with the electronics subassembly 720.
ingress into the internal cavity of the housing 601. The force 0.148. In the example depicted in FIG. 7, a biosensor mod
sensor 705 may also be used to join the cover subassembly ule 710 is disposed in an opening formed in the rear surface of
704 to the housing 601 using an adhesive or film. the housing 601. In some embodiments, the biosensor module
0143. In some embodiments, the cover subassembly 704 710 includes the rear cover 608 and may also include a chassis
includes the cover 609 which is disposed above the touch or plate that facilitates attachment of the biosensor module
sensor 702 and display 120. In the present example, the touch 710 to the housing 601. The chassis or plate or the cover sheet
sensor 702 and the display 120 are attached to each other by 608 may also include features or elements that facilitate a
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016

watertight seal between the biosensor module 710 and the rounded corners may correspond to the curvature of the
housing 601. For example, the rear cover 608 may include a curved portion of the housing 601. Specifically, the curvature
shelf or flange that may be used to form a seal between the of the rounded corners may match or correspond to the cur
biosensor module 710 and the housing 601. As described in vature of the continuous external surface formed by the hous
more detail below with respect to FIG. 16, the biosensor ing 601 and the cover 609, as described above with respect to
module 710 may include one or more light sources, one or FIG. 6.
more photodetectors, and one or more electrodes or conduc 0153. The sides 802a-d may vary in thickness in order to
tive elements that are configured to detect and measure a provide the structural rigidity for the device. In general, areas
physiological condition or property of the user. of high stress may have an increased material thickness as
0149. In some embodiments, the rear cover 608 has an compared to areas of low stress, which may have a reduced
edge that protrudes outwardly from the back surface of the material thickness. In particular, portions of the sides 802a-d
housing 601. The rear cover 608 may also have a convex near the bottom portion 801 may have an increased thickness
curved area located between the edges of the rear cover 608. as compared to portions of the sides 802a-d located further
The convex curved area of the rear cover 608 may include one away from the bottom portion 801. This configuration may
or more windows or apertures that provide operational access improve the structural rigidity and overall stiffness of the
to one or more internal components located within the hous housing 601.
ing 601. In some embodiments, the windows have a curvature 0154 As shown in FIG. 8, one or more mounting features
that matches the curvature of the convex curved area of the may be formed directly into the housing 601, which may
a COV.
reduce the number of parts and also enhance the structural
2. Example Housing integrity of the device. As shown in FIG. 8, receiving features
623, 624 may be formed as channels or openings that are
0150. As described above, a wearable electronic device configured to receive an end of a band (e.g., a lug) having a
may include a device body that includes a housing or enclo mating feature. As described above with respect to FIG. 5, the
Sure shell. As previously described, the housing may function receiving features 623, 624 may be standardized and config
as a chassis that physically integrates the various components ured to work with a system of interchangeable components.
of the device. The housing may also form a protective shell or Forming the receiving features 623, 624 directly into the
housing for the components and function as a barrier against housing 601 may reduce parts and also facilitate structural
moisture or debris. In the present examples, the housing is rigidity of the device.
formed as a uni-body, unitary, or single body or component. A (O155 In the example depicted in FIG. 8, the housing 601
single-body construction may be advantageous by providing can be described as having two ends (a first end and a second
mounting features directly into the housing, which may end opposite the first end), and a first side and a second side
reduce space, reduce part count, and increase structural rigid opposite the first side, the sides being continuous with the
ity as compared to some alternative configurations. Addition ends. In this example, the first and second ends and the first
ally, a single-body construction may improve the housings and second sides having an outwardly curved three-dimen
ability to prevent the ingress of moisture or debris by reducing sional shape. In this example, the receiving feature 623 is
or eliminating seams or joints between external components. formed from a first groove situated in the first end. Similarly,
0151 FIG. 8 depicts an example housing 601 in accor the receiving feature 624 is formed from a second groove
dance with some embodiments. In the present example, the situated in the second end. In the present example the grooves
housing 601 is formed as a single body or component. As have openings at the interface of the first and second sides and
shown in FIG. 8, the housing 601 is formed as a single part or first and second ends. As shown in FIG. 8 the groove also has
body. The housing 601 may be formed, for example, by an inwardly curved concave three-dimensional shape with an
machining or shaping a solid or castblank having the approxi undercut feature. For example, the middle portion of the
mate shape of the housing 601. In some implementations, the groove of receiving features 623,624 may have a width that is
housing 601 may be configured to provide structural integrity greater than the opening of the receiving features 623,624. In
for potentially delicate internal components and also with Some embodiments, the upper portion of the housing over
stand a reasonable impact. hangs the lower portion of the housing at the groove opening.
0152. In the present embodiment, the housing 601 is In the example depicted in FIG. 8, the groove is cut into a solid
formed as a uni-body, unitary, or single-body construction portion of the housing Such that the groove forms a continu
having a flat bottom portion 801 and a top portion including ous interior shape.
flange 812. The top portion defines an internal cavity 805, 0156 The geometry of the receiving features may be
which is surrounded by four sides 802a-d that are integrally located with respect to other features or components of the
formed with the bottom portion 801. The internal cavity 805 device. In the example depicted in FIG. 8, at least a portion of
can also be described as being defined by the top portion, the the groove of the receiving features 623,624 may be disposed
four sides 802a-d and the bottom portion 801. In this underneath the cover (item 609 of FIGS. 6-7). With respect to
example, the internal cavity 805 has a rectangular (square) FIG. 6, the groove of the receiving features 623,624 is located
shape, although the specific shape may vary with different underneath the opening for the cover, which is defined by the
implementations. In the present example, the four sides sealing ledge 810 and flange 812 formed in the upper portion
802a-d define a curved side portion of the housing 601 that of the housing 601. In some embodiments, the length of the
extends from the bottom portion 801 to the top portion of the groove extends further than the width of the opening config
housing 601. Each side 802a-d is orthogonal to an adjacent ured to receive the cover (and thus the cover, when
side and each side 802a-dis connected to an adjacent side by assembled). In some embodiments, the grooves are formed at
arounded corner. For example, side 802a is orthogonal to two an angle relative to the centerline of the housing. In some
adjacent sides 802b and 802d and is connected to those sides cases, the angle is approximately 5 degrees. In some embodi
by respective rounded corners. The shape or contour of the ments, the groove is located underneath the centerline of the
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016

housing 601. In some embodiments, the groove is angled ing 815, which may facilitate a water-proof or water-resistant
upward toward the top of the housing 601 and inward toward property of the device. Additionally, by integrating a sensor
the center of the housing 601. The groove 601 may angle array into a module that attaches via the opening 815, same
upward and cross the centerline of the housing. In some cases, housing 601 may be used with a variety of sensing configu
the groove crosses the vertical centerline of the housing 601. rations or arrays. For example, the number or sensors or
0157. In the present embodiment, the housing 601 also components may be increased or decreased without modify
includes an aperture 821 formed into the side 802c of the ing the housing 601. This may allow for flexibility in the
housing 601 for attaching a crown or crown module (item 642 product development and may facilitate upgrades as new
of FIGS. 6-7). In some embodiments, the aperture 821 for the sensing configurations are available.
crown is offset upwardly from the centerline of the housing 0162. As previously discussed above with respect to
601. In some embodiments, the aperture 821 for the crown is FIGS. 6-7, the housing 601 may also be configured to serve as
positioned such that an upper portion of a crown (when a protective housing for one or more acoustic elements. Such
installed) is higher than the interface of cover 609 and hous as a microphone or speaker. Additionally, in Some embodi
ing 601. With respect to FIG. 6, the interface may correspond ments, the housing 601 may also be configured to inhibit the
to the upper edge of the flange 812. ingress of foreign particulate or moisture. In particular, the
0158. The housing 601 also includes an opening 822 housing 601 may include a speaker port having orifices 831,
formed into the side 802c of the housing 601 for attaching the 832 that are configured to transmit acoustic signals but also
button (item 644 of FIGS. 6-7). In some embodiments, the prevent the ingress of liquid or other foreign particulate. In the
aperture 821 for the crown and the opening 822 for the button present example, the speaker port includes orifices 831, 832
are disposed with the length defined by a flat part of the cover. that are offset with respect to an acoustic chamber or cavity to
In some embodiments, the aperture 821 for the crown is prevent the directingress of liquid into the speaker Subassem
disposed above the centerline of the housing 601 and the bly or acoustic module. In the present example, a shielding or
opening 822 for the button is disposed below the centerline of umbrella portion of the housing, which is substantially free of
the housing 601. In some embodiments, the aperture 821 for openings, is formed between the orifices 831, 832, which
the crown and the opening 822 for the button are disposed on helps to prevent the direct ingress of liquid. Similarly, the
a curved surface of the housing 601. The housing 601 may housing 601 includes a microphone port having orifices 833,
also include various other internal features, including 834 that are offset from a corresponding acoustic chamber or
threaded features and bosses, for attaching other internal cavity to prevent the direct ingress of liquid into the micro
components of the device. phone Subassembly or acoustic module.
0159. In some cases, the housing 601 may be formed as a (0163. In the example depicted in FIG. 8, the orifices 831,
single-piece or integral enclosure shell to enhance the struc 832 of the speaker port are located on one side of the aperture
tural rigidity and/or liquid-sealing properties of the device. As 821 for the crown and the orifices 833, 834 for the micro
described above with respect to FIGS. 6 and 7, the housing phone are located on the other side of the aperture 821. Both
601 may be integrated with a cover (e.g., crystal) and other the orifices 831, 832 of the speaker port and the orifices 833,
external components to provide a Substantially sealed hous 834 for the microphone are located on a curved portion of the
ing. In the present embodiment, the housing 601, includes a housing 601.
sealing ledge 810 formed around the perimeter of the main
cavity 805 formed within the housing 601. In some embodi 3. Example Force Sensor and Touch Sensor
ments, the sealing ledge 810 (and thus the cover when 0164. As discussed previously, a wearable electronic
installed) is located in the center of the housing 601. The device may include one or more sensors for detecting the
sealing ledge 810 may be defined by a substantially flat por location and force of a touch. For the purposes of the follow
tion 811 that is adapted to form a seal between the housing ing description of the force sensor and touch sensor, the
601 and another component (e.g., the force sensor 705 or described device 100 is one example of that shown and dis
cover 609 of FIGS. 6-7). The sealing ledge 810 may be cussed above with respect to FIGS. 2-7. However, certain
formed at a depth that is Substantially similar or corresponds features of the device 100 including the external surface
to the thickness of the mating cover. geometry, may be simplified or vary with respect to aspects of
0160. As shown in FIG. 8, the sealing ledge 810 may also the device 100 discussed above.
include flange 812 that protrudes from the flat portion and 0.165. In some embodiments, a force sensor and a touch
forms a continuous surface with the side walls 802a-d. In sensor may be disposed relative to the display of a wearable
Some cases, the flange 812 is configured to cooperate with the electronic device for to form a touch-sensitive surface. The
cover (item 609 of FIGS. 6-7) to form a substantially continu following description is provided with respect to individual
ous Surface. In some implementations, the sides 802a-d and force and touch sensors that may be used to determine the
the cover or crystal are configured to cooperate or mechani force and location of a touch, respectively. However, in some
cally interface to improve the strength and the water sealing embodiments, a single integrated sensor may be used to
properties of the device. detect both the force and location of a touch on the device.
0161. As also shown in FIG. 8, an opening or aperture 815 0166 In one embodiment, an output from a force sensor
may be formed in the bottom portion 801 of the housing 601. may be combined with a touch sensor to provide both location
In some embodiments, the opening or aperture 815 is located and force of a single touch or of multiple touches on the
at the center of the housing 601. As described above with surface of a device. In an alternative embodiment, a hybrid or
respect to FIG. 7, the aperture 815 may be used to integrate a integrated force and touch sensor may be used to sense both
sensor array or other module used to collect measurements touch force and location of a single touch or of multiple
that may be used to compute a health metric or other health touches. In either embodiment, by sensing both the force and
related information. The present embodiment may be advan location of a touch, multiple types of user input may be
tageous by integrating multiple components in a single open generated and interpreted. In one example, a first touch may
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016

be correlated with a first force and a first touch location or conductive electrodes, it should be appreciated that the ele
gesture. Based on the magnitude of the force, the first touch ments need not be rigid but may instead be flexible (as in the
may be interpreted as a first type of input or command. A case of a trace or flex).
second touch may be sensed as having a second, different 0171 FIG. 10A depicts an example configuration of the
force and a similar location or gesture as the first touch. Based force sensor 1000 having four individual force-sensing struc
in part on the magnitude of the second force, the second touch tures 1001a-darranged around the perimeter of a display in a
may be interpreted as a second type of input or command. device. For the sake of clarity, the crystal, display, and other
Thus, a force sensor (alone or in combination with another elements of the device are omitted from the depiction of FIG.
touch sensor) may be used to produce different responses or 10A. Each of the force-sensing structures 1001a-d may be
outputs depending on the force of the touch. formed from a pair of capacitive plates separated by a com
pressible element. Additionally, each force-sensing structure
0167. The one or more force sensors may beformed from 1001a-d may be separated by a small gap at or near the
or may be implemented as one or more types of sensor con corners of the opening in the housing 601. In the example
figurations. For example, capacitive and/or strain based sen depicted in FIG. 10A, the four individual force-sensing struc
Sor configurations may be used alone or in combination to tures 1001a-d may each be operatively coupled to force
detect and measure the magnitude of a touch. As described in sensing circuitry that is configured to detect a change in the
more detail below, a capacitive force sensor may be config capacitance of each force-sensing structure 1001a-d. Using
ured to detect the magnitude of a touchbased on the displace the example arrangement depicted in FIG. 10A, the approxi
ment of a surface or element on the device. Additionally or mate location of the touch may be determined by comparing
alternatively, a strain-based force sensor may be configured to the relative change incapacitance of each force-sensing struc
detect the magnitude of a touch based on a deflection of the ture 1001a-d. For example, a change in capacitance of struc
Surface, such as the cover glass. ture 1001b that is larger as compared to a change in capaci
0168 By way of example, the force sensor may include a tance of structure 1001d may indicate that the touch is closer
capacitive force sensor, which may be formed from one or to structure 1001b. In some embodiments, the degree of the
more capacitive plates or conductive electrodes that are sepa difference in the change in capacitance may be used to pro
vide a more accurate location estimate.
rated by a compressible element or other compliant member.
As a force is applied to a Surface of the device, the compress 0172. While the configuration shown in FIG. 10A depicts
ible element may deflect resulting in a predictable change in the force-sensing structures as individual elements separated
the capacitance between the plates or electrodes. In some by a small gap, in Some embodiments, the force-sensing
implementations, a capacitive force sensor may be formed structure may be formed as a single continuous piece. FIG.
from transparent materials and disposed over the display. In 10B depicts a force sensor 1050 formed as a single force
other implementations, a capacitive force sensor may be sensing structure 1051 formed as a continuous part along the
formed from non-transparent materials and disposed beneath perimeter of the display. Similar to the example described
or around the perimeter of a display. above, the force-sensing structure 1051 may be operatively
coupled to force sensing circuitry that is configured to detect
0169 FIG. 9 depicts a detail cross-sectional view of a a change in the capacitance of one or more capacitive ele
portion of a force sensor 900 that may be arranged around the ments of the force-sensing structure 1051. While the force
perimeter of a display 120. As shown in FIG. 9, a force sensing structure 1051 is formed as a continuous structure,
sensing structure 901 of the force sensor 900 may be disposed there may be multiple sensing elements (e.g., capacitive
beneath the cover 609 and along the side of an edge or the plates) that are disposed within the structure at different loca
perimeter of the display 120. In this example, the force sensor tions, and which may be configured to detect deflection or
900 is configured to detect and measure the force of a touch on compression of the structure over a portion of entire area of
the surface 911 of the cover 609. In the present embodiment, the force-sensing structure 1051. In some embodiments, the
a first capacitive plate 902 is fixed with respect to the cover force-sensing structure 1051 may also function as a seal or
609. A second, lower capacitive plate 904 is fixed with respect gasket to prevent ingress of moisture or other foreign con
to the housing 601 and may be disposed on a shelf or mount taminants into the main cavity of the housing. Additionally,
ing surface located along the perimeter of the device. The first the force-sensing structure 1051 may be integrated with one
capacitive plate 902 and the second capacitive plate 904 are or more sealing or adhesive layers that also function as a
separated by a compressible element 906. barrier for foreign contaminants.
0170 In the configuration depicted in FIG. 9, a touch on 0173 As mentioned previously, the force sensor may
the surface 911 of the device may cause a force to be trans additionally or alternatively include a strain-based sensing
mitted through the cover 609 of the device and to the force configuration. The strain-based sensing configuration may
sensor 900. In some cases, the force causes the compressible include, for example, a charge-based or resistive sensor con
element 906 to compress, thereby bringing the first capacitive figuration. FIG. 11 depicts a cross-sectional view of a device
plate 902 and the second capacitive plate 904 closer together. having an example force sensor 1100 that uses one or more
The change in distance between the first and second capaci force-sensitive films to detect and measure the force of a
tive plates 902, 904 may result in a change of capacitance, touch on a surface 1111 of the cover 609. In this example, the
which may be detected and measured. For example, in some force sensitive film 1102 and 1104 are formed from a trans
cases, a force-sensing circuit may measure this change in parent material and are disposed relative to a viewable portion
capacitance and output a signal that corresponds to the mea of the display 120. As shown in FIG. 11, the force sensor 1100
Surement. A processor, integrated circuit or other electronic includes a first force-sensitive film 1102 and a second force
element may correlate the circuit output to an estimate of the sensitive film 1104 that are separated by one or more inter
force of the touch. Although the term “plate' may be used to mediate layers 1106. The force-sensitive films 1102, 1104
describe certain elements, such as the capacitive plates or may be configured to produce different electrical outputs in
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016

response to a strain or deflection of the cover 609. In some two layers of pixel elements, alternative embodiments may
cases, the intermediate layer 1106 is compressible to allow include only a single layer of pixel elements or, alternatively,
the first force-sensitive film 1102 to deflect with respect to the include more than two layers of pixel elements.
second force-sensitive film 1104. In other cases, the interme (0177. The pixel elements 1202, 1204 may be specifically
diate layer 1106 may not be compressible and the first force configured to detect strain along one or more directions. In
sensitive film 1102 deflects in a predictable manner with some cases, each pixel element 1202, 1204 includes an array
respect to the second force-sensitive film 1104. While FIG. 11 of traces generally oriented along one direction. This configu
depicts an example force sensor 1100 having two force-sen ration may be referred to as a piezo-resistive or resistive strain
sitive films, alternative embodiments may include only a gauge configuration. In general, in this configuration the
single force-sensitive film or, alternatively, include more than force-sensitive-film is a material whose resistance changes in
two force-sensitive films. response to strain. The change in resistance may be due to a
0.174. In general, a transparent force-sensitive film may change in the geometry resulting from the applied strain. For
include a compliant material that exhibits an electrical prop example, an increase in length combined with decrease in
erty that is variable in response to deformation or deflection of cross-sectional area may occur in accordance with Poisson’s
the film. The transparent force-sensitive film may be formed effect. The change in resistance may also be due to a change
from a piezoelectric, piezo-resistive, resistive, or other strain in the inherent resistivity of the material due to the applied
sensitive materials. Transparent resistive films can be formed strain. For example, the applied Strain may make it easier or
by coating a Substrate with a transparent conductive material. harder for electrons to transition through the material. The
Potential transparent conductive materials include, for overall effect is for the total resistance to change with strain
example, polyethyleneioxythiophene (PEDOT), indium tin due to the applied force.
oxide (ITO), carbon nanotubes, graphene, silver nanowire, 0.178 Further, in a piezo-resistive or resistive strain gauge
other metallic nanowires, and the like. Potential substrate configuration, each pixel may be formed from a pattern of the
materials include, for example, glass or transparent polymers force-sensitive-film, aligned to respond to strain along a par
like polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or cyclo-olefin poly ticular axis. For example, if strain along an X-axis is to be
mer (COP). Typically, when a piezo-resistive or resistive film measured, the pixel should have a majority of its trace length
is strained, the resistance of the film changes as a function of aligned with the x-axis. By way of example, FIG. 13A depicts
the strain. The resistance can be measured with an electrical a pixel element 1302 having traces that are generally oriented
circuit. In this way, a transparent piezo-resistive or resistive along the X-axis and may be configured to produce a strain
film can be used in a similar fashion as a strain gauge. response that is substantially isolated to strain in the X-direc
0.175. If transparency is not required, then other film mate tion. Similarly, FIG. 13B depicts a pixel element 1304 having
rials may be used, including, for example, Constantan and traces that are generally oriented along the y-axis and may be
Karma alloys for the conductive film and a polyimide may be configured to produce a strain response that is Substantially
used as a Substrate. Nontransparent applications include force isolated to strain in the y-direction.
sensing on track pads or the back of display elements. In 0179. In some embodiments, the force-sensitive film may
general, transparent and non-transparent force-sensitive films be formed from a solid sheet of material and is in electrical
may be referred to herein as “force-sensitive films’ or simply communication with a pattern of electrodes disposed on one
“films. or more surfaces of the force-sensitive film. The electrodes
0176). In some embodiments, the force-sensitive film is may be used, for example, to electrically connect a region of
patterned into an array of lines, pixels, or other geometric the Solid sheet of material to sense circuitry. This configura
elements herein referred to as film elements. The regions of tion may be referred to as a piezo-strain configuration. In this
the force-sensitive film or the film elements may also be configuration, the force-sensitive film may generate a charge
connected to sense circuitry using electrically conductive when strained. The force-sensitive film may also generate
traces or electrodes. FIG. 12 depicts a cross-sectional view a different amounts of charge depending on the degree of the
device having a strain-based force sensor 1200 formed from strain. In some cases, the overall total charge is a Superposi
one or more strain pixel elements 1202 and 1204 separated by tion of the charge generated due to strain along various axes.
intermediate layer 1206. Each of the pixel elements 1202, 0180. As mentioned previously, a force sensor may be
1204 may be separated by a gap 1210. In the present example, combined with a touch sensor that is configured to detect and
each pixel element 1202, 1204 may exhibit a measurable measure the location of a touch on the surface of the device.
change in an electrical property in response to a force being FIG. 14A depicts a simplified schematic representation of an
applied to the device. By way of example, as a force is applied example mutual capacitance touch sensor. As shown in FIG.
to a surface 1211 on the cover 609, one or more of the pixel 14A, a touch sensor 1430 may beformed by an array of nodes
elements 1202, 1204 is deflected or deformed. Sense cir 1402 formed at the intersection of an array of drive lines 1404
cuitry, which is in electrical communication with the one or and sense lines 1406. In this example, stray capacitance C.
more pixel elements 1202, 1204, may be configured to detect may be present at each node 1402 (although FIG. 14A depicts
and measure the change in the electrical property of the film only one C for one column for purposes of simplifying the
due to the deflection. Based on the measured electrical prop figure). In the example of FIG. 14A, AC stimuli V 1414,
erty of the pixel elements 1202, 1204, an estimated amount of V 1415 and V, 1417 can be at different frequencies and
force can be computed. In some cases, the estimated force phases. Each stimulation signal on a row can cause a charge
may represent the magnitude of a touch on the Surface 1211 of Q. CXV, to be injected into the columns through the
the device, and be used as an input to a graphical user inter mutual capacitance present at the affected nodes 1402. A
face or other element of the device. Additionally, in some change in the injected charge (Q, , ) can be detected
embodiments, the relative strain of the individual pixel ele when a finger, palm or other object is present at one or more
ments may be compared to estimate a location of the touch. of the affected nodes 1402.Vsaifa signals 1414, 1415 and 1417
While FIG. 12 depicts an example force sensor 1200 having can include one or more bursts of sine waves. Note that
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016

although FIG. 14A illustrates rows 1404 and columns 1406 as event, or the output can be inputted into a discreet logic
being Substantially perpendicular, they need not be aligned, network to determine the presence of a touch or proximity
as described above. Each column 1406 may be operatively event.
coupled to a receive channel of a charge-monitoring circuit. 0.184 FIG.15B depicts an example self-capacitance touch
0181 FIG. 14B depicts a side view of an exemplary node sensor 1530. Touch sensor 1530 can include a plurality of
in a steady-state (no touch) condition according to examples touch pixel electrodes 1502 disposed on a surface and
of the disclosure. In FIG. 14B, electric field lines 1408 coupled to sense channels in a touch controller, can be driven
between a column 1406 and a row 1404 separated by dielec by stimulation signals from the sense channels through drive/
tric 1410 is shown at node 1402. sense interface 1525, and can be sensed by the sense channels
0182 FIG. 14C depicts a side view of an exemplary pixel through the drive/sense interface 1525 as well. After touch
controller has determined an amount of touch detected at each
in a dynamic (touch) condition. An object such as finger 1412 touch pixel electrode 1502, the pattern of touch pixels in the
can be placed near node 1402. Finger 1412 can be a low touch screen panel at which touch occurred can be thought of
impedance object at signal frequencies, and can have an AC as an “image' of touch (e.g., a pattern offingers touching the
capacitance Co. from the column trace 1406 to the body. touch screen). The arrangement of the touch pixel electrodes
The body can have a self-capacitance to groundCof about 1502 in FIG. 15B is provided as one example; however, the
200 pF, where C can be much larger than Co. If finger arrangement and/or the geometry of the touch pixel elec
1412 blocks some electric field lines 1408 between row and
column electrodes (those fringing fields that exit the dielec trodes may vary depending on the embodiment.
tric 1410 and pass through the air above the row electrode), 0185. As previously mentioned, a force sensor may be
those electric field lines can be shunted to ground through the implemented alone or in combination with another type of
capacitance path inherent in the finger and the body, and as a touch sensor to sense both touch force and touch location,
result, the steady state signal capacitance C. can be reduced which may enable more Sophisticated user touch input than
by DC. In other words, the combined body and finger using touch location alone. For example, a user may manipu
capacitance can act to reduce C. by an amount DC (which late a computer-generated object on a display using a first
can also be referred to herein as C. ...), and can act as a type of interaction using a relatively light touch force at a
shunt or dynamic return path to ground, blocking some of the given touch location. The user may also interact with the
electric field lines as resulting in a reduced net signal capaci object using a second type of interaction by using a relatively
tance. The signal capacitance at the pixel becomes C-DC heavy or sharper touch force at the given location. As one
where DC represents the dynamic (touch) component. specific example, a user may manipulate or move a computer
Note that C-DC may always be nonzero due to the inabil generated object, such as a window, using a relatively light
ity of a finger, palm or other object to block all electric fields, touch force. Additionally or alternatively, the user may also
especially those electric fields that remain entirely within the selector invoke a command associated with the window using
dielectric material. In addition, it should be understood that as a relatively heavy or sharper touch force. In some cases,
finger 1412 is pushed harder or more completely onto the multiple types of interactions may be associated with mul
touch sensor, finger 1412 can tend to flatten, blocking more tiple amounts of touch force.
and more of the electric fields lines 1408, and thus DC may 0186. Additionally, it may be advantageous for the user to
be variable and representative of how completely finger 1412 be able to provide an analog input using a varying amount of
is pushing down on the panel (i.e., a range from “no-touch' to force. A variable, non-binary input may be useful for select
“full-touch”). ing within a range of input values. The amount of force may,
0183. Additionally or alternatively, the touch sensor may in some cases, be used to accelerate a scrolling operation, a
be formed from an array of self-capacitive pixels or elec Zooming operation, or other graphical user interface opera
trodes. FIG. 15A depicts an example touch sensor circuit tion. It may also be advantageous to use the touch force in a
corresponding to a self-capacitance touch pixel electrode and multi-touch sensing environment. In one example, the force
sensing circuit. Touch sensor circuit 1509 can have a touch of a touch may be used to interpret a complex user input
pixel electrode 1502 with an inherent self-capacitance to performed using multiple touches, each touch having a dif
ground associated with it, and also an additional self-capaci ferent magnitude or degree of force. As a specific but non
tance to ground that can be formed when an object, such as limiting example, touch and force may be used in a multi
finger 1512, is in proximity to or touching the touch pixel touch application that allows the user to play a varying tone or
electrode 1502. The total self-capacitance to ground of touch simple musical instrument using the Surface of the device. In
pixel electrode 1502 can be illustrated as capacitance 1504. Such a housing, the force of each touch may be used to
Touch pixel electrode 1502 can be coupled to sensing circuit interpret a users interaction with the buttons or keys of a
1514. Sensing circuit 1514 can include an operational ampli virtual instrument. Similarly, the force of multiple touches
fier 1508, feedback resistor 1516, feedback capacitor 1510 can be used to interpret a user's multiple touches in a game
and an input Voltage source 1506, although other configura application that may accept multiple non-binary inputs at
different locations.
tions can be employed. For example, feedback resistor 1516
can be replaced by a Switch capacitor resistor. Touch pixel 4. Sensor or Biosensor Module
electrode 1502 can be coupled to the inverting input of opera
tional amplifier 1508. An AC input voltage source 1506 can 0187. As described above with respect to FIG. 2, a wear
be coupled to the non-inverting input of operational amplifier able electronic device may include one or more sensors that
1508. Touch sensor circuit 1509 can be configured to sense can be used to calculate a health metric or other health-related
changes in the total self-capacitance 1504 of touch pixel information. For the purposes of the following description of
electrode 1502 induced by finger 1512 either touching or in the biosensor module, the described device 100 is one
proximity to the touch sensor panel. Output 1520 can be used example of that shown and discussed above with respect to
by a processor to determine a presence of a proximity or touch FIGS. 2-7. However, certain features of the device 100
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016
20

including the external Surface geometry, may be simplified or the infrared wavelength range. In some cases, a modulation
vary with respect to aspects of the device 100 discussed pattern or sequence may be used to turn the light sources on
above. and off and sample or sense the reflected light. With reference
0188 In some embodiments, a wearable electronic device to FIG. 16, the first light source 1611 may include, for
may function as a wearable health assistant that provides example, a green LED, which may be adapted for detecting
health-related information (whether real-time or not) to the blood perfusion in the body of the wearer. The second light
user, authorized third parties, and/oran associated monitoring source 1612 may include, for example, an infrared LED,
device. The wearable health assistant may be configured to which may be adapted to detect changes in water content or
provide health-related information or data such as, but not other properties of the body. The third 1613 light source may
limited to, heart rate data, blood pressure data, temperature be a similar type or different types of LED element, depend
data, blood oxygen Saturation level data, diet/nutrition infor ing on the sensing configuration.
mation, medical reminders, health-related tips or informa 0193 The optical (e.g., PPG) sensor or sensors may be
tion, or other health-related data. The associated monitoring used to compute various health metrics, including, without
device may be, for example, a tablet computing device, limitation, a heart rate, a respiration rate, blood oxygenation
phone, personal digital assistant, computer, and the like. level, a blood volume estimate, blood pressure, or a combi
0189 In accordance with some embodiments, the elec nation thereof. In some instances, blood may absorb light
tronic device can be configured in the form of a wearable more than Surrounding tissue, so less reflected light will be
electronic device that is configured or configurable to provide sensed by the detector of the PPG sensor when more blood is
a wide range of functionality. As described above with respect present. The user's blood Volume increases and decreases
to FIG. 2, the wearable electronic device 100 may include a with each heartbeat. Thus, in some cases, a PPG sensor may
processing units 102 coupled with or in communication with be configured to detect changes in blood Volume based on the
a memory 104, one or more communications channels 108, reflected light, and one or more physiological parameters of
output devices such as a display 120 and speaker 122, one or the user may be determined by analyzing the reflected light.
more input components 106, and other modules or compo Example physiological parameters include, but are not lim
nents. An example wearable electronic device 100 may be ited to, heart rate, respiration rate, blood hydration, oxygen
configured to provide or calculate information regarding saturation, blood pressure, perfusion, and others.
time, health information, biostatistics, and/or status to exter 0194 While FIG. 16 depicts one example embodiment,
nally connected or communicating devices and/or Software the number of light sources and/or detectors may vary in
executing on such devices. The device 100 may also be con different embodiments. For example, another embodiment
figured to send and receive messages, video, operating com may use more than one detector. Another embodiment may
mands, and other communications. also use fewer or more light sources than are depicted in the
(0190. With reference to FIG. 16, an example device 100 example of FIG. 16. In particular, in the example depicted in
may include various sensors for measuring and collecting FIG. 16, the detector 1614 is shared between multiple light
data that may be used to calculate a health metric or other sources 1611-1613. In one alternative embodiment, two
health-related information. As one example, the wearable detectors may be paired with two corresponding light sources
communication device can include an array of light sources to form two optical sensors. The two sensors (light source?
1611-1613 and a detector 1614 that are configured to function detector pairs) may be operated in tandem and used to
as an optical sensor or sensors. In one example, an optical improve the reliability of the sensing operation. For example,
sensor or sensors may implemented as a pairing of one or output of the two detectors may be used to detect a pulse wave
more light sources 1611-1613 and the detector 1614. In one of fluid (e.g., blood) as it passes beneath the respective detec
example implementation, the detector 1614 is configured to tors. Having two sensor readings taken at different locations
collect light and convert the collected light into an electrical along the pulse wave may allow the device to compensate for
sensor signal that corresponds to the amount of light incident noise created by, for example, movement of the user, Stray
on a surface of the detector 1614. In one embodiment, the light, and other effects.
detector may be a photodetector, Such as a photodiode. In 0.195. In some implementation, one or more of the light
other embodiments, the detector 1614 may include a photo sources 1611-1613 and the detector 1614 may also be used for
tube, photosensor, or other light-sensitive device. optical data transfer with a base or other device. For example,
0191 In some cases, the one or more optical sensors may the detector 1614 may be configured to detect light produced
operate as a photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor or sensors. by an external mating device, which may be interpreted or
In some instances, a PPG sensor is configured to measure translated into a digital signal. Similarly, one or more of the
light and produce a sensor signal that can be used to estimate light sources 1611-1613 may be configured to transmit light
changes in the Volume of a part of a user's body. In general, as that may be interpreted or translated into a digital signal by an
light from the one or more light sources passes through the external device.
user's skin and into the underlying tissue. Some light is (0196. Returning to FIG. 16, the device 100 may also
reflected, some is scattered, and some light is absorbed, include one or more electrodes to measure electrical proper
depending on what the light encounters. The light that is ties of the user's body. In this example, a first electrode 1601
received by the detector 1614 may be used to generate a and second electrode 1602 are disposed on the rear face of the
sensor signal, which may be used to estimate or compute a device 100. The first 1601 and second 1602 electrodes may be
health metric or other physiological phenomena. configured to make contact with the skin of the user's wrist
0.192 The light sources may operate at the same light when the device is being worn. As shown in FIG. 16, a third
wavelength range, or the light sources can operate at different electrode 1603 and fourth electrode 1604 may be disposed
light wavelength ranges. As one example, with two light along a periphery of the device body 610. In the configuration
Sources, one light source may transmit light in the visible of FIG. 16, the third 1603 and fourth 1604 electrodes are
wavelength range while the other light source can emit light in configured to come into contact with the skin of the user's
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016

other hand (that is not wearing the device 100). For example, is configured to be positioned with the opening of the housing
the third 1603 and fourth 1604 electrodes may be contacted 601. In some embodiments, the rear cover 608 is disposed
when the userpinches the device 100 between two digits (e.g., completely within the area of the cover so that the two com
a forefinger and thumb). ponents completely overlap when viewed from above. In
0.197 FIG. 16 depicts one example arrangement of elec some embodiments, the rear cover 608 has an edge that pro
trodes. However, in other embodiments, one or more of the trudes outwardly from the back surface of the housing 601. In
electrodes may be placed in locations that are different than some embodiments, an edge of the rear cover 608 extends
the configuration of FIG. 16. For example, one or more elec past a flat portion of the back surface of the housing 601. The
trodes may be placed on a top surface or other Surface of the rear cover 608 may also have a convex, curved outer contour.
device 100. Additionally, fewer electrodes or more electrodes The rear cover 608 may have a convex shape that is located
may be used to contact the user's skin, depending on the within the center and surrounded by the edges of the rear
configuration. cover 608. The convex curved area of the rear cover 608 may
0198 Using the electrodes of the device, various electrical include one or more windows or apertures that provide opera
measurements may be taken, which may be used to compute tional access to one or more internal components located
a health metric or other health-related information. By way of within the housing. For example, the rear cover 608 may
example, the electrodes may be used to detect electrical activ include an array of windows, each window including an aper
ity of the user's body. In some cases, the electrodes may be ture or opening for a respective light source 1611-1613 and/or
configured to detect electrical activity produced by the heart the detector 1614. In some embodiments, the windows have a
of the user to measure heart function or produce an electro curvature that matches the curvature of the convex curved
cardiograph (ECG). As another example, the electrodes of the area of the rear cover 608. In some embodiments, rear cover
device may be used to detect and measure conductance of the 608 includes a chamfered edge and a curved bottom surface,
body. In some cases, the measured conductance may be used the windows being disposed within the curved surface. In
to compute a galvanic skin response (GSR), which may be some embodiments, two openings of the rear cover 608 are
indicative of the user's emotional state or other physiological located along a first axis (e.g., an X-axis) and two openings are
condition. By way of further example, the electrodes may also located along a second axis (e.g., a y-axis) that is transverse to
be configured to measure other health characteristics, includ the first axis.
ing, for example, a body fat estimate, body or blood hydra 5. Example Wireless Communications with External Devices
tion, and blood pressure. 0202) A wearable electronic device may include a func
0199. In some embodiments, the optical sensors and elec tionality for performing wireless communications with an
trodes discussed above with respect to FIG.16 may be opera external device. For the purposes of the following description,
tively coupled to sensing circuitry and the processing units the described device 100 is one example of that shown and
102 to define a health monitoring system. In this capacity, the discussed above with respect to FIGS. 2-7. However, certain
processing units 102 may be any suitable type of processing features of the device 100, including the external surface
device. In one embodiment, the processing units 102 include geometry, may be simplified or vary with respect to aspects of
a digital signal processor. The processing units 102 may the device 100 discussed above.
receive signals from the optical sensor(s) and/or electrodes 0203. In some embodiments, the wireless communica
and process the signals to correlate the signal values with a tions are performed in accordance with a Near Field Commu
physiological parameter of the user. As one example, the nications (NFC) protocol. The communication may include
processing units 102 can apply one or more demodulation an identification protocol and a secured data connection that
operations to the signals received from the optical sensor. can be used to identify the user, authorize activity, perform
Additionally, the processing units 102 may control the modu transactions, or conduct other aspects of electronic com
lation (i.e., turning on and off) of the light sources according CCC.
to a given modulation pattern or sequence. The processing 0204 FIG. 17 depicts an example system 1700 including a
units 102 may also be used to calculate one or more biomet device 100 that is located proximate to a station 1710. The
rics or other heath related information. station 1710 may include a variety of devices, including,
0200. In some implementations, the wearable electronic without limitation, a payment kiosk, a vending machine, a
device may also receive sensor data or output from an external security access point, a terminal device, or other similar
device. For example, an external mobile device having a device. In some cases, the station 1710 is incorporated into a
global positioning system (GPS) may relay location informa larger system or device. For example, the station 1710 may be
tion to the wearable device, which may be used to calibrate an incorporated into a security gate of a building or a payment
activity metric, such as a pedometer or distance calculator. center for a vending system.
Similarly, sensor output of the wearable electronic device 0205 As shown in FIG. 17, the device 100 is a wearable
may be transmitted to an external device to compute health electronic device that may be placed proximate to the station
related information. For example, output from an accelerom 1710. In this example, a second device 1720 is carried by a
eter in the wearable electronic device may be used determine user, and may also be placed proximate to the station 1710. In
a body position or gesture, which may be relayed to an exter some embodiments, the device 100 and/or the second device
nal device and used to compute health-related information, 1720 includes a radio-frequency identification (RFID) sys
Such as activity level. tem that is configured to enable one-way or two-way radio
0201 In some embodiments, some or all of the biosensors frequency (RF) communications with the station 1710. The
may be integrated into a module that is separate from and one- or two-way communication may include an identifica
attached to the housing 601 of the device 100. As described tion of the device 100 and the station 1710 to initiate a secured
above with respect to FIG. 6, in some embodiments, the data connection between the two devices. The secured data
biosensors are disposed relative to or attached to a rear cover connection may be used to authorize a transaction between
608 that is formed from an optically transparent material and the user and an entity that is associated with the station 1710.
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016
22

0206. In some embodiments, the user may initiate a com power transfer efficiency for particular operational condi
munication with the station 1710 by placing the device 100 tions. More particularly, a high transmit frequency may be
near an active region on the station 1710. In some implemen selected if more power is required by the electronic device
tations, the station 1710 is configured to automatically detect and a low transmit frequency may be selected ifless power is
the presence of the device 100 and initiate an identification required by the electronic device. In other examples, a trans
process or routine. The RFID system of the device may mit coil may produce a static electromagnetic field and may
include a unique identifier or signature that may be used to physically move, shift, or otherwise change its position to
authenticate the identity of the user. As previously mentioned, produce a spatially-varying electromagnetic flux to induce a
the identification process or routine may be used to establish current within the receive coil.
a secure data connection between the device 100 and the 0211. The electronic device may use the received current
station 1710. The secure data connection may be used to to replenish the charge of a rechargeable battery or to provide
authorize a purchase or download of data to or from the device power to operating components associated with the electronic
100. In some cases, the secure data connection may be used to device. Thus, when the electronic device is positioned on the
authorize the transfer of funds from a credit card or financial dock, the dock may wirelessly transmit power at a particular
institution in exchange for a product that is associated with frequency via the transmit coil to the receive coil of the
the station 1710. Other transactions or forms of electronic electronic device.
commerce may also be performed using the wireless commu 0212. A transmit coil and receive coil may be disposed
nication between the device 100 and the station 1710. respectively within housings of the dock and electronic
device so as to align along a mutual axis when the electronic
6. Example Wireless Power System device is placed on the dock. If misaligned, the power transfer
0207. As discussed above, a wearable electronic device efficiency between the transmit coil and the receive coil may
may include an internal battery that is rechargeable using an decrease as misalignment increases. Accordingly, in many
external power source. For the purposes of the following examples, the wireless power transfer system may include
description, the described device 100 is one example of that one or more alignment assistance features to effect alignment
shown and discussed above with respect to FIGS. 2-7. How of the transmit and receive coils along the mutual axis.
ever, certain features of the device 100, including the external 0213 FIG. 18 depicts a front perspective view of an
Surface geometry, may be simplified or vary with respect to example wireless power transfer system 1800 in an unmated
aspects of the device 100 discussed above. configuration. The illustrated embodiment shows an induc
0208. One challenge associated with small devices is that tive power transmitter dock 1802 that is configured to couple
it may be difficult to incorporate an electrical port for cou to and wirelessly transmit power to an inductive power
pling the device to an external power source. Because wear receiver accessory, in this case device 100. The wireless
able electronic devices have limited space for an external power transfer system 1800 may include one or more align
connector, it may be advantageous to electrically couple to a ment assistance features to effect alignment of the device 100
device without a cable or external connector. In at least some with the dock 1802 along a mutual axis. For example, the
embodiments, the wearable electronic device described housings of the dock 1802 and the device 100 may assist with
herein may be configured to operate as a receiverina wireless alignment. In one implementation, a portion of the housing of
power transfer system. the device 100 may engage and/or interlock with a portion of
0209. A wireless power transfer system, one example of the housing of the dock 1802 in order to effect the desired
which is an inductive power transfer system, typically alignment. In some embodiments, a bottom portion of the
includes a power-transmitting structure to transmit power and device 100 may be substantially convex and a top surface of
a power-receiving structure to receive power. In some the dock 1802 may be substantially concave. In other
examples, a power-receiving electronic device includes or examples, the interfacing surfaces of the dock 1802 and the
otherwise incorporates an inductive power-receiving element device 100 may be substantially flat, or may include one or
configured to receive wireless power and/or charge one or more additional housing features to assist with effecting
more internal batteries. Similarly, a charging device may mutual alignment.
include or otherwise incorporate an indicative power-trans 0214. In some embodiments, one or more actuators in the
mitting element configured to wirelessly transmit power to dock 1802 and/or device 100 can be used to align the trans
the power-receiving electronic device. The charging device mitter and receiver devices. In yet another example, align
may be configured as a base or dock on which the power ment assistance features, such as protrusions and correspond
receiving electronic device rests or to which it physically ing indentations in the housings of the transmitter and
connects in some embodiments. In other embodiments, the receiver devices, may be used to align the transmitter and
charging device may be proximate the electronic device but receiver devices. The design or configuration of the interface
not necessarily touching or physically coupled. Surfaces, one or more alignment assistance mechanisms, and
0210. In many examples, the battery-powered electronic one or more alignment features can be used individually or in
device may be positioned on an external Surface of the power various combinations thereof.
transmitting device, otherwise referred to as a dock. In these 0215 Alignment assistance can also be provided with one
systems, an electromagnetic coil within the dock (e.g., trans or more magnetic field sources. For example, a permanent
mit coil) may produce a time-varying electromagnetic flux to magnet within the dock 1802 may attract a permanent magnet
induce a current within an electromagnetic coil within the within the device 100. In another example, a permanent mag
electronic device (e.g., receive coil). In many examples, the net within the device 100 may be attracted by a magnetic field
transmit coil may transmit power at a selected frequency or produced by the dock 1802. In further examples, multiple
bandoffrequencies. In one example the transmit frequency is alignment assistance features may cooperate to effect align
Substantially fixed, although this is not required. For example, ment of the transmit and receive coils. Power transfer effi
the transmit frequency may be adjusted to improve inductive ciency may also decrease if the power consumption of the
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016

electronic device changes (e.g., the electronic device transi tively coupling with a transmit coil 1832 of the dock 1802.
tions from a trickle charge mode to constant current charge The receive coil 1869 may receive power wirelessly from the
mode) during wireless power transfer. dock 1802 and may pass the received power to a battery 114
0216. As discussed previously with respect to FIG. 2, the within the device 100 via power conditioning circuit 1810.
device 100 may include a processor coupled with or in com The power conditioning circuit 1810 may be configured to
munication with a memory, one or more communication convert the alternating current received by the receive coil
interfaces, output devices such as displays and speakers, and 1869 into direct current powerfor use by other components of
one or more input devices such as buttons, dials, micro the device. In one example, the processing units 102 may
phones, or touch-based interfaces. The communication inter direct the power, via one or more routing circuits, to perform
face(s) can provide electronic communications between the or coordinate one or more functions of the device 100 typi
communications device and any external communication net cally powered by the battery 114.
work, device or platform, such as, but not limited to, wireless 0222. As shown in FIG. 19, the dock 1802 includes a
interfaces, Bluetooth interfaces, Near Field Communication transmit coil 1832 having one or more windings. The transmit
interfaces, infrared interfaces, USB interfaces, Wi-Fi inter coil 1832 may transmit power to the device 100 via electro
faces, TCP/IP interfaces, network communications inter magnetic induction or magnetic resonance. In many embodi
faces, or any conventional communication interfaces. The ments, the transmit coil 1832 may be shielded with a shield
device 100 may provide information regarding time, health, element that may be disposed or formed around portions of
statuses or externally connected or communicating devices the transmit coil 1832. Similarly, the receive coil 1869 may
and/or software executing on Such devices, messages, video, also include a shield element that may be disposed or formed
operating commands, and so forth (and may receive any of the around a portion of the receive coil 1869.
foregoing from an external device), in addition to communi 0223. As shown in FIG. 19, the dock 1802 also includes a
cations. processor 1834 that may be used to control the operation of or
0217. In the example depicted in FIG. 18, the dock 1802 coordinate one or more functions of the dock 1802. In some
may be connected to an external power Source. Such as an embodiments, the dock 1802 may also include one or more
alternating current power outlet, by power cord 1808. In other sensors 1836 to determine whether the device 100 is present
embodiments, the dock 1802 may be battery operated. In still and ready to receive transmitted power from the dock 1802.
further examples, the dock 1802 may include a power cord For example, the dock 1802 may include an optical sensor,
1808 in addition to an internal or external battery. Similarly, such as an infrared proximity sensor. When the device 100 is
although the embodiment is shown with the power cord 1808 placed on the dock 1802, the infrared proximity sensor may
coupled to the housing of the dock 1802, the power cord 1808 produce a signal that the processor 1834 uses to determine the
may be connected by any suitable means. For example, the presence of the device 100. The processor 1834 may, option
power cord 1808 may be removable and may include a con ally, use another method or structure to verify the presence of
nector that is sized to fit within an aperture or receptacle the electronic device via sensor 1836. Examples of different
opened within the housing of the dock 1802. sensors that may be suitable to detect or verify the presence of
0218. Although the device 100 is shown in FIG. 18 as device 100 may include a mass sensor, a mechanical inter
larger than the dock 1802, the depicted scale may not be lock, switch, button or the like, a Hall effect sensor, or other
representative of all embodiments. For example, in some electronic sensor. Continuing the example, after the optical
embodiments the dock 1802 may be larger than the device sensor reports that the device 100 may be present, the proces
100. Instill further embodiments the two may be substantially Sor 1834 may activate a communication channel to attempt to
the same size and shape. In other embodiments, the dock 1802 communicate with the device 100.
and device 100 may take separate shapes. 0224. As illustrated in FIG. 19, a bottom surface of the
0219 FIG. 19 depicts a simplified block diagram of rel housing of the device 100 may partially contact a top surface
evant aspects of the device 100 and dock 1802. It may be of the dock housing. In some implementations, the interfac
appreciated that certain components of both the dock 1802 ing surfaces of the device 100 and the dock 1802 may be
and device 100 are omitted from the figure for clarity. Like formed with complementary geometries. For example, as
wise, the positions of the elements that are shown are meant to depicted in FIG. 19, the bottom surface of the device 100 is
be illustrative rather than necessarily portraying a particular convex and the top surface of the dock 1802 is concave,
size, shape, Scale, position, orientation, or relation to one following the same curvature as the bottom surface of the
another, although some embodiments may have elements device 100. In this manner, the complementary geometries
with one or more of such factors as illustrated. may facilitate alignment of the electronic device and dock for
0220. As described previously with respect to FIG. 2, the efficient wireless power transfer.
device 100 may include one or more electronic components 0225. In some embodiments, the dock 1802 and device
located within the housing 601. For clarity, some of the com 100 may include other alignment assistance features. For
ponents and modules described or depicted in various example the device 100 may include an alignment magnet
embodiments are omitted from the depiction of FIG. 19. As 1838 which is positioned and oriented to attract a correspond
shown in FIG. 19, the device 100 may include an internal ing alignment magnet 1840 within the dock 1802. In some
battery 114 that may be used to provide power to the various cases, when the device 100 is positioned proximate the dock
internal components of the device 100. As described previ 1802, the alignment magnets 1838, 1840 may be mutually
ously, the internal battery 114 may be rechargeable by an attracted, thereby affecting alignment of the portable elec
external power Supply. In the present example, the internal tronic device 100 and the dock 1802 along a mutual axis. In
battery 114 is operably connected to a receive coil 1869 via other examples, the dock 1802 may include a ferromagnetic
power conditioning circuit 1810. material in place of the alignment magnet 1840. In these
0221. In the present example, the device 100 includes a examples, the alignment magnet 1838 may be attracted to the
receive coil 1869 having one or more windings for induc ferromagnetic material. In still further cases, the receive coil
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016
24

1869 or transmit coil 1832 may produce a static magnetic diaphragm 2010 is configured to produce Sound waves or an
field that either attracts or repels either or both of the align acoustic signal in response to a stimulus signal in the center
ment magnets 1838, 1840. magnet 2008. For example, a modulated stimulus signal in the
0226. As shown in FIG. 19, the alignment magnets 1838, center magnet 2008 causes movement of the voice coil 2009,
1840 may be positioned within a respective coil 1869, 1832. which is coupled to the diaphragm 2010. Movement of the
When the alignment magnets 1838, 1840 are drawn together, diaphragm 2010 creates the Sound waves, which propagate
the coils 1869, 1832 may be placed into alignment. Addition through the acoustic cavity 2011 of acoustic module 2006 and
ally, the complementary geometries of the device 100 and the eventually out the acoustic port 2020 to a region external to
dock 1802 may further facilitate alignment when the align the device. In some cases, the acoustic cavity 2011 functions
ment magnets 1838, 1840 are drawn together. as an acoustical resonator having a shape and size that is
configured to amplify and/or dampen Sound waves produced
7. Example Acoustic Module by movement of the diaphragm 2010.
0227. As described above, the device may include one or 0231. As shown in FIG. 20, the acoustic module 2006 also
more devices for transmitting and receiving acoustic energy. includes a yoke 2014, support 2013, connector element 2012,
For the purposes of the following description of the acoustic and a cavity wall 2017. These elements provide the physical
module, the described device 100 is one example of that Support of the speaker elements. Additionally, the connector
shown and discussed above with respect to FIGS. 2-7. How element 2012 and the cavity wall 2017 together form at least
ever, certain features of the device 100, including the external part of the acoustic cavity 2011. The specific structural con
Surface geometry, may be simplified or vary with respect to figuration of FIG. 20 is not intended to be limiting. For
aspects of the device 100 discussed above. As previously example, in alternative embodiments, the acoustic cavity may
discussed, in some embodiments, the device may include a be formed from additional components or may be formed
speaker for transmitting acoustic energy and/or a microphone from a single component.
for receiving acoustic energy. For the purposes of the follow 0232. The acoustic module 2006 depicted in FIG. 20 is
ing description, a speaker device and a microphone are provided as one example of a type of speaker acoustic mod
referred to generically as an acoustic module, which may be ule. In other alternative implementations, the acoustic module
configured to transmit and/or receive acoustic energy depend may include different acoustic elements for producing and
ing on the particular implementation. transmitting Sound, including, for example, a vibrating mem
0228 FIG. 20 depicts a simplified schematic cross-sec brane, piezoelectric transducer, vibrating ribbon, or the like.
tional view of a first embodiment of a device having an Additionally, in other alternative implementations, the acous
acoustic module 2006. The representation depicted in FIG. 20 tic module may be a microphone acoustic module having one
is not drawn to scale and may omit some elements for clarity. or more elements for converting acoustic energy into an elec
The acoustic module 2006 may represent either a portion of a trical impulse. For example, the acoustic module may alter
speaker and/or microphone device described above with natively include a piezoelectric microphone acoustic element
respect to the electronic device 100 of FIG. 2. for producing a charge in response to acoustic energy or
Sound.
0229. As shown in FIG. 20, an acoustic port 2020 may be 0233. As previously mentioned, because the acoustic port
formed in the housing 601 of the electronic device. In the 2020 connects the acoustic module 2006 to the external envi
present example, the acoustic port 2020 includes first and ronment, there is a possibility that liquid may accumulate or
second orifices 2031, 2032 that are formed in the housing 601 infiltrate the interior of the module. In some cases, the screen
and acoustically couple the acoustic cavity 2011 of the acous element 2015 or other protective features may not prevent all
tic module 2006 to the external environment (external to the liquid from entering the acoustic cavity 2011 of the module.
electronic device). In the present embodiment, the first and For example, if the device is subjected to a liquid under
second orifices 2031, 2032 are offset with respect to the pressure or a directed stream of liquid, some liquid ingress
opening of the acoustic cavity 2011. This configuration may may occur. Additionally, naturally occurring moisture in the
help reduce the direct ingress of liquid 2001 into acoustic air may condense and accumulate over time resulting in the
cavity 2011 of the acoustic module 2006 Also, as shown in presence of liquid within the module. Thus, in Some imple
FIG. 20 a shield 2021 or umbrella structure that is formed
between the orifices 2031, 2032 blocks the direct ingress of mentations, the acoustic module 2006 may include one or
liquid 2001 into the acoustic cavity 2011. As shown in FIG. more elements configured to expel water or liquid that accu
20, the acoustic module 2006 also includes a screen element mulates in, for example, the acoustic cavity 2011 of the mod
2015 disposed at one end of the acoustic cavity 2011, which ule. The liquid expulsion process may include modifying the
may also prevent the ingress of liquid or other foreign debris charge on a portion of the wall of the acoustic cavity 2011 to
into the acoustic cavity 2011. The acoustic module 2006 also change the Surface energy of the wall and/or producing an
includes a seal 2016 disposed between the housing 601 and acoustic pulse using the diaphragm 2010 to help expel liquid
the connector element 2012 of the module, which may also be from the acoustic cavity 2011. In some embodiments, the
configured to prevent the ingress of water into the device screen 2015 may also have hydrophilic or hydrophobic prop
and/or module. erties that may facilitate removal of liquid held within the
0230. In the present example depicted in FIG. 20, the acoustic cavity 2011.
acoustic module 2006 may correspond to the speaker 122 8. Example Antenna and Cover
described with respect to some embodiments. As shown in
FIG. 20, the acoustic module 2006 includes various compo 0234. As previously described, a wearable electronic
nents for producing and transmitting Sound, including a dia device may be configured to communicate wirelessly with
phragm 2010, a voice coil 2009, a center magnet 2008, and various external devices and communication networks. For
side magnets/coils 2007. These components may cooperate to the purposes of the following description, the described
form a speaker acoustic element. In one implementation, the device 100 is one example of that shown and discussed above
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016

with respect to FIGS. 2-7. However, certain features of the pressible element 2122 may provide a seal against water or
device 100, including the external surface geometry, may be other contaminates and also provide compliance between the
simplified or vary with respect to aspects of the device 100 cover 2100 and the housing 601. The compressible element
discussed above. 2122 may beformed from a nitrile or silicone rubber and may
0235. In some embodiments, as previously discussed with also include an adhesive or other bonding agent.
respect to FIG. 2, the device may include one or more com 0240. As shown in FIG. 21B, the antenna ring 2134 is
munication channels that are configured to transmit and disposed entirely within the groove 2128. In this case, the
receive data and/or signals over a wireless communications antenna ring 2134 does not protrude past the inner Surface
network or interface. Example wireless interfaces include 2124. The antenna ring 2134 is electrically connected to the
radio frequency cellular interfaces, Bluetooth interfaces, Wi terminal 2140, which protrudes into an opening in the hous
Fi interfaces, or any other known communication interface. ing 601. As shown in FIG. 21B, the terminal 2140 includes
0236. In some implementations an antenna may be dis conductive pads 2142 for electrically connecting to the
posed with respect to the cover (e.g., crystal) of a device to antenna ring 2134. In this example, spring clips 2152 are
facilitate wireless communications with an external device or configured to mechanically and electrically connect to the
communication network. In some cases, it may be advanta conductive pads 2142 on the terminal 2140. One advantage to
geous to integrate an antenna into the cover to improve the the configuration depicted in FIG. 21B is that the antenna
transmission and reception of wireless signals from the assembly 2130 may be installed in the cover 2100 before the
device. In particular, the cover of the device may have dielec cover 2100 is installed in the housing 601. The terminal 2140
tric properties that facilitate the transmission of radio fre and connector 2150 facilitate a blind connection that may
quency signals while also protecting the antenna from physi assist electrical connection as the cover 2100 is installed.
cal damage or interference. Additionally, if the antenna is Additionally, the configuration depicted in FIG. 21 B may
integrated into a perimeter portion of the cover, the visual allow for some movement between the cover 2100 and the
appearance or clarity of the cover may be minimized. Fur housing 601 without disturbing the electrical connection with
thermore, the embodiments described below with respect to the antenna ring 2134.
FIGS. 21A-B may be used to integrate an antenna external to
the housing, without increasing the thickness of the device 9. Example Haptic Module
body. 0241. As described above, the device may include one or
0237 FIG. 21A depicts a perspective exploded view of a more haptic modules for providing haptic feedback to the
cover 2100 and an antenna assembly 2130. The cover 2100 user. The embodiments described herein may relate to or take
depicted in FIG. 21A is viewed from an inner surface 2124 the form of durable and thin haptic feedback elements suit
that is configured to attach to or interface with the opening of able to provide a perceivable single pulse haptic feedback. In
the housing (described above with respect to FIG. 1). As general, a haptic device may be configured to produce a
shown in FIG.21A, a groove 2128 may be formed within the mechanical movement or vibration that may be transmitted
inner surface 2124. In this example, the groove 2128 is through the housing and/or other component of the device. In
formed around the periphery of the cover 2100. As mentioned Some cases, the movement or vibration may be transmitted to
previously, this may be advantageous in minimizing the the skin of the user and perceived as a stimulus or haptic
visual impact of having the antenna assembly 2130 located feedback by the user. In some implementations, the haptic
within the cover 2100. feedback may be coupled to one or more device outputs to
0238. As shown in FIG. 21A the antenna assembly 2130 alert the user of an event or activity. For example, a haptic
includes an antenna ring 2134 and a terminal 2140 which may output may be produced in combination with an audio output
interface with an electrical connector 2150. In the present produced by the speaker, and/or a visual output produced
embodiment, the groove 2128 formed in the surface of the using the display.
cover 2100 may be configured to accept the antenna ring 0242. The space constraints associated with a small wrist
2134. In particular, the groove 2128 may receive the entire worn device may present unique challenges to integrating a
antenna ring 2134 without a portion of the antenna ring 2134 haptic mechanism into wearable electronics. In particular, a
protruding past the inner Surface 2124, when the antenna ring haptic mechanism may use a moving mass used to create the
2134 is installed. In some cases, the groove 2128 is formed to movement or vibration of the haptic output. The larger the
be a clearance or near clearance fit with the diameter of the mass that is moved, the easier it may be to create a perceivable
antenna ring 2134. Thus, in Some cases, the antenna ring 2134 stimulus using the haptic mechanism. However, a large mov
may substantially fill the groove 2128 when the ring is ing mass and the Supporting mechanism may be difficult to
installed. In some cases, the groove 2128 may be configured integrate into the compact space of for example, the housing
to retain the antenna ring 2134 due to a slight interference fit of a wearable electronic wristwatch.
or due to a feature formed within either the cover 2100 and/or 0243 Thus, the haptic module implemented in some
the antenna assembly 2130. In the present embodiment, the embodiments may be configured to maximize the mechanical
antenna assembly 2130 may be installed in the cover 2100 energy that is produced in a very compact form factor. FIGS.
and then connected to other electronics via the terminal 2140 22A-B depict one example haptic mechanism that may be
and the connector 2150, which may protrude into an opening particularly well suited for use in a wearable electronic
in the case or housing. device. While the embodiment described with respect to
0239 FIG.21B depicts a cross-sectional view of the cover FIGS. 22A-B is provided as one example, the haptic module
and antenna at the connection point. In particular, FIG. 21B is not limited to this particular configuration.
depicts a detail cross-sectional view of the cover 2100 0244 FIG.22A depicts a three-quarters perspective view
installed within the housing 601 at a region near the terminal ofahaptic device 112, with a top, front and left sidewall of the
2140. In this example, the cover 2100 is attached to a shelf of housing 2220 removed to expose internal components. FIG.
the housing 601 via a compressible element 2122. The com 22B depicts a cross-sectional perspective view of the haptic
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016
26

device 112 cut in half to expose the internal components. In and central magnet array 2210 move, although in other
this example, a coil 2200 is used to induce movement of a embodiments the coil 2200 may move instead of, or in addi
frame 2260, which houses a central magnet array 2210. As tion to, the frame and/or central magnet array. However, by
shown in FIGS. 22A-B, the movement of the frame 2260 is keeping the coil 2200 stationary, it may be easier to provide
guided by a shaft 2250 that is fixed with respect to a housing interconnections for the coil, such as between the coil and the
2220. flex, and therefore reduce the complexity of manufacture.
0245. In the present example, the coil 2200 may be ener 0249. As shown in FIGS. 22A-B, the central magnet array
gized by transmitting a current (e.g., from the battery) along 2210 may beformed from at least two magnets 2211,2212 of
a length of a wire that forms the coil 2200. A direction of the opposing polarities. A center interface 2270 may be formed
current along the wire of the coil 2200 determines a direction from a ferrous or non-ferrous material, depending on the
of a magnetic field that emanates from the coil 2200. In turn, embodiment. A ferrous material for the center interface 2270
the direction of the magnetic field determines a direction of may enhance the overall magnetic field generated by the
movement of the frame 2260 housing the central magnet central magnet array 2210, while a non-ferrous material may
array 2210. One or more springs may bias the frame 2260 provide at least a portion of a return path for magnetic flux and
towards the middle region of the travel. In this example, the thus assist in localizing the flux within the housing 2220. In
frame 2260 and central magnet array 2210, through operation some embodiments, the magnets 2211,2212 are formed from
of the coil 2200, function as a moving mass, which generates neodymium while the frame is tungsten. This combination
a tap or vibration. The output of the haptic device 112, created may provide a strong magnetic field and a dense mass,
by the moving mass of the frame 2260 and central magnet thereby yielding a high weight per Volume structure that may
array 2210, may be perceived as a haptic feedback or stimulus be used as the moving part of the haptic device 112.
to the user wearing the device.
0246 For example, when the coil 2200 is energized, the 10. Example Crown Module
coil 2200 may generate a magnetic field. The opposing polari 0250) As described above, the device may include a crown
ties of the magnets in the magnetarray 2210 generates a radial that may be used to accept user input to the device. For the
magnetic field that interacts with the magnetic field of the coil purposes of the following description, the described device
2200. The Lorentz force resulting from the interaction of the 100 is one example of that shown and discussed above with
magnetic fields causes the frame 2260 to move along the shaft respect to FIGS. 2-7. However, certain features of the device
2250 in a first direction. Reversing current flow through the 100, including the external Surface geometry, may be simpli
coil 2200 reverses the Lorentz force. As a result, the magnetic fied or vary with respect to aspects of the device 100 discussed
field or force on the central magnet array 2210 is also reversed above.
and the frame 2260 may move in a second direction. Thus, 0251. In some embodiments, a crown may be used to
frame 2260 may move in both directions along the shaft 2250, accept rotary input from the user, which may be used to
depending on the direction of current flow through the coil control aspects of the device. The crown may be knurled or
22OO. otherwise textured to improve grip with the user's finger
0247. As shown in FIG.22A, the coil 2200 encircles the and/or thumb. In some embodiments, a crown may be turned
central magnet array 2210, which is disposed near the center by the user to Scroll a display or select from a range of values.
of the frame 2260. As previously described, the coil 2200 may In other embodiments, the crown may be rotated to move a
be energized by transmitting a current along the length of the cursor or other type of selection mechanism from a first
wire forming the coil 2200, and the direction of the current displayed location to a second displayed location in order to
flow determines the direction of the magnetic flux emanating select an icon or move the selection mechanism between
from the coil 2200 in response to the current. Passing an various icons that are output on the display. In a time keeping
alternating current through the coil 2200 may cause the cen application, the crown may also be used to adjust the position
tral magnet array 2210 (and frame 2260) to move back and of watch hands or index digits displayed on the display of the
forth along a shaft 2250. In order to prevent the central mag device. The crown may also be used to control the volume of
net array 2210 from being attracted to the shaft 2250, which a speaker, the brightness of the display screen, or control other
could increase friction between the two and thereby increase hardware settings.
the force necessary to move the central magnet array 2210 0252. In some embodiments, the crown may also be con
and frame 2260, the shaft 2250 may be formed from a non figured to accept linear, as well as rotary, input. For example,
ferrous material Such as tungsten, titanium, stainless steel, or the crown may be configured to translate along an axis when
the like. pressed or pulled by the user. In some cases, the linear actua
0248. As depicted in FIGS. 22A-B, the coil 2200 is posi tion may be used as additional user input. The actuation may
tioned within a frame 2260 that holds the central magnetarray provide a binary output (actuated/not actuated) or may also
2210, but is not affixed to the coil 2200. Rather, an air gap provide a non-binary output that corresponds to the amount of
separates the coil 2200 from the central magnet array 2210 translation along the axis of motion. In some instances, the
and the frame 2260 is free to move with respect to the coil linear input to the crown may be combined with the rotary
2200, which is generally stationary. Further, the frame 2260 input to control an aspect of the device.
generally moves with the central magnet array 2210. As illus 0253) The embodiments described herein may be used for
trated in FIGS. 22A-B, the frame 2260 may have an aperture at least a portion of the crown module integrated into a wear
formed therein of sufficientsize to contain the coil 2200. Even able electronic device. The embodiments are provided as
when the frame and central magnet array are maximally dis examples and may not include all of the components or ele
placed within the housing 2220 (e.g., to one end or the other ments used in a particular implementation. Additionally, the
of the shaft 2250), the coil 2200 does not contact any portion crown module is not intended to be limited to the specific
of the frame 2260. It should be appreciated that the coil 2200 examples described below and may vary in Some aspects
remains stationary in the housing 2220 while the frame 2260 depending on the implementation.
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016
27

0254. In some embodiments, an optical encoder may be the direction of the movement, speed of the movement and so
used to detect the rotational motion of the crown. More spe on. The movement may be rotational movement, translational
cifically, the example provided below with respect to FIG. 23 movement, angular movement, and so on. The optical
may use an optical encoder to detect rotational movement, encoder may also be used to detect the degree of the change of
rotational direction and/or rotational speed of a component of rotation of the dial 2340 and/or the angle of rotation of the dial
the electronic device. Once the rotational movement, rota 2340 as well as the speed and the direction of the rotation of
tional direction and/or rotational speed have been deter the dial 2340.
mined, this information may be used to output or change 0260 The signals or output of the optical encoder may be
information and images that are presented on a display or user used to control various aspects of other components or mod
interface of the electronic device. ules of the device. For example, continuing with the time
0255 Integrating an optical encoder into the space con keeping application example discussed above, the dial 2340
straints of a typical wearable electronic device may be par may be rotated in a clockwise manner in order to advance the
ticularly challenging. Specifically, some traditional encoder displayed time forward. In one implementation, the optical
configurations may be too large or delicate for use in a por encoder may be used to detect the rotational movement of the
table electronic device. The optical encoder described below dial 2340, the direction of the movement, and the speed at
may provide certain advantages over Some traditional which the dial 2340 is being rotated. Using the output from
encoder configurations and may be particularly well Suited the optical encoder, the displayed hands of a time keeping
for use with a crown module of a wearable electronic device. application may rotate or otherwise move in accordance with
0256. As shown in the example embodiment of FIG. 23, the user-provided rotational input.
the optical encoder of the present disclosure includes a light 0261 Referring back to FIG. 23, the crown module 642
source 2370, a photodiode array 2380, and a shaft 2360. may be formed from dial 2340 that is coupled to the shaft
However, unlike typical optical encoders, the optical encoder 2360. In some cases, the shaft 2360 and dial 2340 may be
of the present disclosure utilizes an encoding pattern disposed formed as a single piece. As the shaft 2360 is coupled to, or is
directly on the shaft 2360. For example, the encoding pattern otherwise a part of the dial 2340, as the dial 2340 rotates or
includes a number of light and dark markings or stripes that moves in a particular direction and at a particular speed, the
are axially disposed along the shaft 2360. Each stripe or shaft 2360 also rotates or moves in the same direction and
combination of stripes on the shaft 2360 may be used to with the same speed.
identify a position of the shaft 2360. For example, as light is 0262. As shown in FIG. 23, the shaft 2360 of the optical
emitted from the light source 2370 and reflected off of the encoder includes an encoding pattern 2365. As discussed
shaft 2360 into the photodiode array 2380, a position, rota above, the encoding pattern 2365 may be used to determine
tion, rotation direction and rotation speed of the shaft 2360 positional information about the shaft 2360 including rota
may be determined. Once the rotation direction and speed are tional movement, angular displacement and movement
determined, this information may be used to output or change speed. As shown in FIG. 23, the encoding pattern 2365 may
information or images that are presented on the display or include a plurality of light and dark Stripes.
user interface of the electronic device. 0263. Although light stripes and dark stripes are specifi
0257. In other embodiments, the shape or form of the shaft cally mentioned and shown, the encoding pattern 2365 may
of the encoder may be used to determine a position, rotation, consist of various types of Stripes having various shades or
rotation direction and rotation speed of the shaft. For colors that provide Surface contrasts. For example, the encod
example, the shaft may be fluted or have a number of channels ing pattern 2365 may include a stripe or marking that has a
that cause the light to be reflected in a number of different high reflective surface and another stripe that has a low reflec
directions. Accordingly, a diffractive pattern may be used to tive Surface regardless of the color or shading of the Stripes or
determine the rotation, rotation direction and rotation speed markings. In another embodiment, a first stripe of the encod
of the shaft. ing pattern 2365 may cause specular reflection while a second
0258 FIG. 23 illustrates a simplified depiction of the stripe of the encoding pattern 2365 may cause diffuse reflec
device 100 and crown module 642 in accordance with some tion. When the reflected light is received by the photodiode
embodiments. As shown in FIG. 23, the crown module 642 array 2380, a determination may be made as to the position
may be integrated with the housing 601 of the device 100 and and movement of the shaft such as described below. In
may be formed from a dial 2340 disposed at the end of a shaft embodiments where a holographic or diffractive pattern is
2360. In the present embodiment, the crown module 642 also used, the light from the light source 2370 may diffract from
forms part of the optical encoder. As discussed above, the the shaft 2360. Based on the diffracted light, the photodiode
crown module 642 includes an optical encoder that includes a array 2380 may determine the position, movement and direc
shaft 2360, a light source 2370, and a photodiode array 2380. tion of movement of the shaft 2360.
Although a photodiode array is specifically mentioned, 0264. In some embodiments, the stripes of the encoding
embodiments disclosed herein may use various types of sen pattern 2365 extend axially along the shaft 2360. The stripes
sors that are arranged in various configurations for detecting may extend along the entire length of the shaft 2360 or par
the movement described herein. For example, the movement tially along a length of the shaft 2360. In addition, the encod
of the shaft 2360 may be detected by an image sensor, a light ing pattern 2365 may also be disposed around the entire
sensor Such as a CMOS light sensor or imager, a photovoltaic circumference of the shaft 2360. In other embodiments, the
cell or system, photo resistive component, a laser Scanner and encoding pattern 2365 may include a radial component. In yet
the like. other embodiments, the encoding pattern 2365 may have both
0259. The optical encoder may produce an encoder output a radial component and an axial component.
that is used to determine positional data of the crown module 0265. In some embodiments, the crown module may also
642. In particular, the optical encoder may produce an output include a tactile Switch for accepting translational input from
that is used to detect that movement of the dial 2340 including the user. FIGS. 24A-B depict another example of a crown
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016
28

module 642a having a tactile switch assembly 2410. As switch assembly 2410 when there is a translational force
shown in FIG. 24A, the tactile switch assembly 2410 may applied to the dial 2448 (actuated).
include a dial 2448 (or button), a coupling 2418, a shear plate
2456, and a tactile switch 2414. 11. Example Band Attachment Mechanism
0266. In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 24A-B, the 0270. For the purposes of the following description, the
dial 2448 is translatable and/or rotatable relative to the hous described device 100 is one example of that shown and dis
ing. The ability of the dial 2448 to translate and rotate relative cussed above with respect to FIGS. 2-7. However, certain
to the housing allows a user to provide a rotational force features of the device 100, including the external surface
and/or translating force to the tactile Switch assembly. In geometry, may be simplified or vary with respect to aspects of
particular, the dial 2448 of the present example may be oper the device 100 discussed above.
ably coupled to or form part of an optical encoder, in accor 0271. As described above, a wearable electronic device
dance with the example described above with respect to FIG. may include a band that is attached to a device body having
23. one or more receiving features. In particular, the housing may
0267 In the present example, the dial 2448 includes an include or form a receiving feature that facilitates an inter
outer surface 2432 that is configured to receive a rotary or change or replacement of different bands that are used to
rotational user input and a stem 2450 that extends from an secure the device to the wrist of the user. By replacing or
interior surface 2434 of the dial 2448. The stem 2450 may interchanging bands the device may be adapted for multiple
define a coupling aperture that extends longitudinally along a uses ranging from sporting activities to professional or Social
length or a portion of a length of the stem 2450. In the activities.
depicted example, the stem 2450 may be hollow or partially 0272. In some embodiments, the receiving features are
hollow. configured to be operated without the use of special tools or
0268. In the example depicted in FIGS. 24A-B, the cou fixtures. For example, the bands may be interchanged by hand
pling 2418 may be a linkage. Such as a shaft, that couples the or with the help of a simple tool. Such as a pointed object.
dial 2448 to the tactile switch 2414. The coupling 2418 may Additionally or alternatively, a tool or other component, Such
be integrally formed with the dial 2448 or may be a separate as a component of the device to which the attachment system
component operably connected thereto. For example, the is coupled, may be configured to actuate a button or other
stem 2450 of the dial 2448 may form the coupling member component of the attachment system to secure and/or release
that is integrally formed with the dial 2448. The coupling the band from the device. In one embodiment, the lug portion
2418 may be made of a conductive material, such as one or of a band may be configured to be inserted into an opening or
more metals or metal alloys. Due to the conductive charac channel portion of the receiving feature. Once the lug of the
teristics, the coupling 2418 may further act to electrically band has been inserted into the opening, the lug may slide
couple the dial 2448 to the tactile switch 2414 and shear plate within the opening of the device until the band is secured or
2456. In the example depicted in FIGS. 24A-B, the shear otherwise coupled to the device. The coupling between the
plate 2456 is positioned between the coupling 2418 and the band and the receiving feature may provide a secure attach
tactile switch 2414. In some embodiments, the shear plate ment of the band to the housing or device body. Just as the
2456 may prevent or reduce shearing forces from the cou band is configured to slide into the channel of the receiving
pling from being transmitted to the tactile switch. The shear feature, the lug may also slide out of the channel of the
plate 2456 also allows transfer of linear force input from the receiving feature allowing the band to be detached from the
dial 2448 to the switch 2414. device body.
0269. The configuration depicted in FIGS. 24A-B may be 0273. In one embodiment, the receiving feature includes a
used to accept both rotational and translational input from the locking mechanism, which may be integrated with portions of
user. For example, if a user provides a rotational force to the either the band or the receiving feature. In one example, as the
dial 2448, the coupling 2418 and dial 2448 may rotate in the band is inserted into a receiving feature of the device, the
direction of the force. The coupling 2418 may be attached to locking mechanism interfaces with a portion of the receiving
or integrated with one or more sensors that are configured to feature to lock or otherwise secure the band within the receiv
detect rotational movement. For example the coupling 2418 ing feature. The locking mechanism may also be configured
may be integrated with an optical encoder, similar to the to interface with a releasing mechanism associated with the
example described above with respect to FIG. 23. Addition receiving feature. For example, a releasing mechanism may
ally, if a user provides a translational force to the dial 2448, be configured to disengage or release the locking mechanism.
the force may be transmitted through the dial 2448 and cou In some implementations. actuation of the releasing mecha
pling 2418 to actuate the switch 2414. In some cases, the nism causes the locking mechanism to be released and allows
switch 2414 includes a metal dome switch that is configured the band to be removed by sliding within the receiving fea
to provide a tactile feedback when actuated. In some cases, ture.
the actuation of a dome switch may be perceived by the user 0274 FIG. 25A depicts a receiving feature and band
as a click or release as the switch 2414 is actuated. Once the assembly as viewed from the bottom of the device body. As
force has been removed from the dial 2448, the dome switch shown in FIG. 25A, a receiving feature 623a includes an
resiliently returns to its original position, providing a biasing opening or channel 2501 that is formed into the body or
force against the coupling 2418 to return both the dial 2448 housing of the device. The channel 2501 is configured to
and the coupling 2418 to their original positions. In some receive the lug 2510 attached to an end of the band strap 621a.
embodiments, the tactile Switch 2414 may include a separate The receiving feature 623a may also include a locking
biasing element, Such as a spring, that exerts a force (either mechanism 2530 that is configured to maintain the band strap
directly or indirectly via the shear plate) against the coupling. 621a within the channel 2501 once it has been installed. As
FIG.24A depicts the tactile switch assembly 2410 when there discussed above, the locking mechanism 2530 may be releas
is no force applied (un-actuated). FIG.24B depicts the tactile able by the user, which may facilitate band replacement. In
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016
29

this example, the locking mechanism 2530 includes a spring 12. Example Bands
loaded retaining mechanism that engages the lug 2510 to 0279. As described above, a wearable electronic device
retain the lug 2510 in the channel 2501 and maintain the may include a band that is used to secure the device to the
attachment of the band strap 621a to the device. As shown in wrist of a user. In some embodiments, the band may be
FIG. 25A, the locking mechanism 2530 also includes abutton formed from two band straps that are attached to the housing
located on the bottom of the housing that may be depressed by of the device body. The band straps may be secured around
the user to release the locking mechanism and allow the lug the wrist of a user by a clasp or latching mechanism. As also
2510 and the band strap 621a to be removed from the channel described above, the device may be configured to facilitate
2501. In the present example, the button of the locking replacement of the band. This feature may allow the use of a
mechanism 2530 is located on a curved portion of the case or variety of types of bands, which may adapt the device for
housing. In some embodiments, the button of the locking multiple uses ranging from sporting activities to professional
mechanism 2530 is located along the centerline of the case or or social activities.
housing. 0280. In some cases, the band may be formed from a
woven textile material. In one example, the band is formed
0275. In some embodiments, the opening or channel 2501 from a woven material that includes one or more Strands or
of the receiving feature 623a includes a port or connector for threads formed from a natural or synthetic material. The
receiving a mating electrical component. In some embodi woven material may beformed, for example, from a plurality
ments, the connector or port is covered by a label or sticker So of warp threads that are woven around one or more weft
that the inside surface of the opening or channel 2501 appears threads. More specifically, the woven material may include a
continuous. The connector or port may be located along the plurality of warp threads disposed along the length of the
Vertical centerline of the case or housing. band, and at least one weft thread positioned perpendicular to,
(0276 FIG. 25B depicts an example exploded view of the and coupled to, woven or interlaced between the plurality of
receiving feature 623a and the lug 2510 of the band strap warp threads. In some cases, the plurality of warp threads may
run the entire length of the woven portion of the band strap.
621a. As shown in FIG. 25B, the band strap 62.1a may be Additionally, in some cases, the at least one weft thread may
formed from a separate part and attached to lug 2510 via a include a single thread that may be continuously woven
pivot or other type of joint. In other embodiments, the band between the plurality of warp threads or, alternatively, may
strap 62.1a may have an end feature that is integrally formed include a plurality of threads that may be woven between the
as part of the band strap 621a. As also shown in FIG. 25B, the plurality of warp threads. A weft thread that is woven between
lug 2510 may be attached to the receiving feature 623a by a plurality of warp threads may form consecutive cross-layers
aligning the axis of the lug 2510 with the axis of the channel with respect to the plurality warp threads in order to form the
2501 and then sliding the lug 2510 into the channel 2501. band.
0277 FIG. 25C depicts an example assembly sequence of 0281. In some cases, one or more of the strands or threads
the lug 2510 being inserted into the channel 2501 of the may be a metallic or conductive material. This may improve
the strength of the band and may also facilitate coupling with
receiving feature 623a. As shown in FIG. 25C, the lug 2510 magnetic elements, such as a metallic clasp. In some cases,
may be positioned along the side of the receiving feature 623a other elements may be woven into the band, including, for
having the lug 2510 approximately aligned with the channel example, product identifying elements, decorative elements,
2501 of the receiving feature 623a. The lug 2510 (and band or functional components.
strap 621a) may then be inserted into the channel 2501 of the 0282. In other embodiments, the band may be formed
receiving feature 623a by sliding the lug 2510 along the from a metallic mesh material. In one example, the metallic
length of the channel 2501. Once the lug 2510 is approxi mesh is formed from an array of links that are interlocked to
mately centered in the channel 2501 of the receiving feature form a sheet of fabric. Some or all of the links in the mesh may
623a, the locking mechanism 2530 or other securing feature be formed from a ferromagnetic material, which may facili
may engage, thereby retaining the lug 2510 (and band strap tate magnetic engagement with a magnetic clasp. In some
621a) within the channel 2501. As previously discussed, the cases, each link of the mesh is formed from a section of
lug 2510 (and band strap 621a) may be removed from the metallic filament that is bent or formed into a closed shape.
receiving feature 623a by depressing the button of the locking Each closed shape may be interlocked with one or more
mechanism 2530, which may disengage the lock and allow adjacent links to form a portion of the sheet or fabric. In some
movement of the lug 2510 within the channel 2501. cases, a metallic filament is formed around a series of rods or
0278. The example described above is provided with pins that are disposed at a regular spacing within the mesh. In
respect to one example embodiment. The geometry of the end Some cases, one or more strands or filaments that may be
of the band strap and/or the geometry of the channel may vary formed from a ferromagnetic material are woven or inte
depending on the implementation. Additionally, the engage grated with the links of the mesh.
ment mechanism may vary depending on the design of the 0283. In other examples, the band may be formed from a
band strap and the device body. The geometry or layout of the sheet of material. For example, the band may be formed from
features may vary and remain within the scope of the present a synthetic leather, leather, or other animal hide. Additionally
disclosure. Additionally, while the examples provided above or alternatively, the band may be formed from a polymer
are described with respect to attaching aband strap to a device material, an elastomer material, or other type of plastic or
body, the receiving feature (623a) may be used to attach a synthetic. In some cases, the band is formed from a silicone
variety of other parts to the device body. For example a sheet material.
lanyard, cable, or other accessory may be attached to the 0284. The clasp that is used to attach the free ends of the
device body using the receiving feature and other similar band straps may vary depending on the material that is used
features. and the construction of the band. For example, as mentioned
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016
30

above, a metallic mesh material may use a metallic clasp to a housing comprising:
join the ends of the band. Additionally, a leather band may be a flat bottom portion;
integrated with magnetic and/or ferromagnetic components a top portion defining a cavity; and
and may include a magnetic clasp. In some embodiments, the a curved side portion that extends from the bottom por
free ends of the band straps are secured using a buckle or tang tion to the top portion;
on a first band strap that is configured to interface with a hole aband attached to the housing and configured to secure the
or aperture in a second band strap. A variety of other clasp wearable electronic device to a user;
configurations may also be used. a display at least partially disposed within the cavity and
having a viewable area; and
13. Example Display a cover disposed above the display and comprising:
0285 For the purposes of the following description, the a flat middle portion larger than the viewable area of the
described device 100 is one example of that shown and dis display; and
cussed above with respect to FIGS. 2-7. However, certain a curved edge portion Surrounding the flat middle por
features of the device 100, including the external surface tion and coinciding with the curved side portion along
geometry, may be simplified or vary with respect to aspects of a perimeter of the cavity to form a continuous con
toured surface.
the device 100 discussed above. As described above, the
device includes a display disposed within the housing or 2. The wearable electronic device of claim 1, wherein:
enclosure. The device may be formed from a liquid crystal the continuous contoured Surface is tangent with the flat
display (LCD), organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, bottom portion of the housing at a first end of the con
organic electroluminescence (OEL) display, or other type of tour, and
display device. The display may be used to present visual the continuous contoured Surface is tangent with the flat
information to the user, including, for example, a graphical middle portion of the cover at a second end of the con
tOur.
user interface, notifications, health statistics, and the like. In
Some cases, the display may be configured to present the 3. The wearable electronic device of claim 2, wherein the
current time and date similar to a traditional watch or time continuous contoured Surface has a constant radius.
piece. 4. The wearable electronic device of claim 1, wherein
0286. In some embodiments, the display is formed from an the cavity has a rectangular shape;
organic light emitting diode (OLED) display element. An the curved edge portion of the housing has four sides that
active region of the display may include an array of light Surround the cavity;
emitting display pixels 2604 such as array 2602, shown in each side is orthogonal to two adjacent sides; and
FIG. 26. Pixels 2604 may be arranged in rows and columns in each side is connected to an adjacent side by a rounded
COC.
array 2602 and may be controlled using a pattern of control
lines. Each pixel may include a light-emitting element Such as 5. The wearable electronic device of claim 4, wherein:
organic light-emitting diode 2612 and associated control cir the rounded corners have a curvature that corresponds to a
curvature of the continuous contoured Surface formed
cuitry 2610. Control circuitry 2610 may be coupled to the
data lines 2606 and gate lines 2608 so that control signals may by the curved edge portion of the cover and the curved
be received from driver circuitry, which may be implemented side portion of the housing.
as an integrated circuit. Although described as an OLED 6. The wearable electronic device of claim 1, further com
display, certain embodiments may implement other display prising:
technology. Such as LCD displays and the like. a crown module positioned at least partially within an
0287 To the extent that multiple functionalities, opera aperture formed within the curved side portion of the
tions, and structures are disclosed as being part of incorpo housing; wherein:
rated into, or performed by device 100, it should be under the crown module comprises an outer Surface configured to
stood that various embodiments may omit any or all Such receive a rotary user input.
described functionalities, operations, and structures. Thus, 7. The wearable electronic device of claim 6, wherein:
different embodiments of the device 100 may have some, the crown module is offset with respect to a centerline of
none, or all of the various capabilities, apparatuses, physical the housing between the top portion and the flat bottom
features, modes, and operating parameters discussed herein portion; and
0288 Although the disclosure above is described in terms the offset is toward the top portion of the housing; and
of various exemplary embodiments and implementations, it the crown module includes a dial having a portion that is
should be understood that the various features, aspects and higher than an interface between the cover and the hous
functionality described in one or more of the individual ing.
embodiments are not limited in their applicability to the par 8. The wearable electronic device of claim 1, further com
ticular embodiment with which they are described, but prising:
instead can be applied, alone or in various combinations, to a port formed in the curved side portion of the housing:
one or more of the other embodiments of the invention, an acoustic module disposed within the housing and con
whether or not such embodiments are described and whether figured to produce an audio output through the port, the
or not such features are presented as being a part of a acoustic module comprising:
described embodiment. Thus, the breadth and scope of the an acoustic element; and
present invention should not be limited by any of the above an acoustic cavity that acoustically couples the acoustic
described exemplary embodiments but instead defined by the element to the port; wherein:
claims herein presented. the port includes an orifice that is offset with respect to
We claim: the acoustic cavity to prevent the direct ingress of
1. A wearable electronic device, comprising: liquid into the acoustic module.
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016

9. The wearable electronic device of claim 1, further com a transparent cover disposed over the cavity of the housing
pr1S1ng: and comprising:
a gasket positioned between the housing and the cover, and a flat middle portion at a center of the transparent cover,
a ledge formed along a perimeter of the cavity, wherein: a curved outer portion that emanates from and Surrounds
the gasket is positioned along the ledge that is formed the flat middle portion and extends outwardly to an
along the perimeter of the cavity; and edge of the transparent cover, and
the gasket, the cover, and the housing are configured to a mask positioned relative to an internal Surface of the
cooperate to form a Substantially water-proof seal. transparent cover, wherein the mask has an outer
10. The wearable electronic device of claim 1, further
boundary located proximate to the edge of the trans
comprising: parent cover and an inner boundary located within the
curved outer portion of the transparent cover.
a biosensor module disposed in an opening formed in the 18. The wearable electronic device of claim 17, further
flat bottom portion of the housing, the biosensor module comprising:
comprising: a display disposed below the transparent cover, wherein a
a chassis positioned in the opening of the housing and perimeter portion of a viewable area of the display is
defining an array of windows; disposed below the mask.
an array of light sources attached to the chassis and 19. The wearable electronic device of claim 17, wherein
configured to emit light into the user through the array the device further comprises:
of windows; and an antenna having a shape that corresponds to a shape of
an optically transparent rear cover disposed over the the cavity formed within the housing, wherein:
chassis and over the array of windows and operative to the antenna is disposed in a groove formed in the internal
pass light emitted from the array of light Sources into Surface of the transparent cover, and
the user. the groove is formed between the outer boundary and the
11. The wearable electronic device of claim 10, wherein inner boundary of the mask.
the rear cover has a convex outer contour. 20. The wearable electronic device of claim 19, wherein:
12. An electronic device, comprising: the cover is formed from a Sapphire material; and
a housing comprising a bottom portion defining an open the antenna is configured to facilitate wireless communi
cation between the wearable electronic device and an
1ng external device.
aband attached to the housing and configured to secure the 21. An electronic device, comprising:
electronic device to a user; a housing comprising:
a biosensor module disposed within the opening; a first end;
a rear cover disposed over the biosensor module and com a second end opposite the first end;
pr1S1ng a first side extending between the first and second ends;
an edge protruding outwardly from the bottom portion and
of the housing; and a second side opposite to the first side and extending
an outer Surface having a convex curved contour. between the first and second ends, wherein:
13. The electronic device of claim 12, wherein: the first end defines a first groove extending between the
the outer surface of the rear cover defines one or more first and second sides and is configured to receive a first
windows that provide operational access to one or more lug portion of a first band;
optical components of the biosensor module; and the second end defines a second groove extending between
the one or more windows have a curvature that matches the
the first and second sides and is configured to receive a
convex curved contour of the outer surface.
second lug portion of a second band; and
the first and second grooves have an inwardly curved con
14. The electronic device of claim 12, wherein the biosen cave shape with an undercut feature that retains the first
Sor module comprises: and second lug portions.
an array of light sources configured to emit light into a body 22. The electronic device of claim 21, wherein the first
of the user; and groove extends through a solid portion of the housing to form
a photodetector configured to receive light produced by a a continuous interior shape.
light source of the array of light sources that is reflected 23. The electronic device of claim 21, further comprising:
from the body and produce a sensor signal. a display at least partially disposed within a cavity of the
15. The electronic device of claim 14, further comprising: housing; and
a processing unit configured to compute a health metric a cover disposed above the display; wherein
associated with the user based on the sensor signal; and at least a portion of the first groove is disposed below the
COW.
a display disposed within the housing and configured to
display the health metric 24. The electronic device of claim 21, wherein the first and
16. The electronic device of claim 12, wherein the biosen second grooves are formed at an angle with respect to a
Sor module is removably coupled to the housing. centerline of the housing.
17. A wearable electronic device, comprising: 25. The electronic device of claim 24, wherein:
a housing comprising: the first and second grooves are angled upward toward atop
a top portion; of the housing and inward toward the center of the hous
ing; and
a cavity formed within the top portion; and the first and second grooves cross the centerline of the
a curved side portion that Surrounds the cavity; and housing.
US 2016/00583.75 A1 Mar. 3, 2016
32

26. A wearable electronic device comprising: 31. A wearable electronic device comprising:
a housing: a housing comprising:
aband attached to the housing and configured to secure the a bottom portion; and
wearable electronic device to a user; an aperture formed in the bottom portion;
a crown disposed relative to the housing and configured to aband attached to the housing and configured to secure the
receive a rotational input; wearable electronic device to a user;
an encoder operatively coupled to the crown and config a biosensor module disposed in the aperture of the housing
ured to produce an encoder output that corresponds to and comprising:
the rotational input; an array of light Sources configured to emit light into a
a speaker module disposed within the housing and config body of the user; and
a photodetector configured to receive light produced by
ured to produce an audio output that corresponds to the a light Source of the array of light sources that is
encoder output; and reflected from the body and produce a sensor signal;
a haptic device disposed within the housing and configured a processing unit configured to compute a health metric
to produce a haptic output that corresponds to the associated with the user based on the sensor signal; and
encoder output. a display disposed within the housing and configured to
27. The wearable electronic device of claim 26, wherein display the health metric.
the haptic output is synchronized with the audio output. 32. The wearable electronic device of claim 31, wherein:
28. The wearable electronic device of claim 26, wherein the array of light sources and the photodetector are config
the crown is further configured to translate along an axis and ured to function as multiple photoplethysmography
actuate a tactile Switch. (PPG) sensors; and
29. The wearable electronic device of claim 26, further each PPG sensor configured to be used to compute a sepa
comprising: rate health metric.
a display element within the housing; and wherein the 33. The wearable electronic device of claim 31, wherein:
device is configured to: a first light source of the array of light sources includes a
display a list of items on the display element; green LED adapted to detect blood perfusion in the
Scroll the list of items in response to the encoder output, body; and
and a second light Source of the array of light sources includes
synchronize the audio and haptic outputs with the Scroll an infrared LED adapted to detect water content of the
ing of the list of items. body.
30. The wearable electronic device of claim 29, wherein 34. The wearable electronic device of claim 31, wherein
the crown is further configured to translate along an axis the health metric includes one or more of: a heart rate, a
and actuate a tactile Switch, and respiration rate, a blood oxygenation level, and a blood Vol
ume estimate.
the crown is operative to select an item of the list of items
when the tactile switch is actuated.