United States Patent: Baranski Et Al - (10) Patent No .: US 9, 781, 984 B2

|HAI LAMA MTANDAO WA WAATU AA TAI MAN HATI
US009781984B2
(12) United States Patent (10) Patent No.: US 9 ,781,984 B2

Baranski et al. (45) Date of Patent: Oct. 10 , 2017
(54 ) DYNAMIC FIT ADJUSTMENT FOR (58 ) Field of Classification Search
WEARABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES CPC ... .... ......... A61B 17 /1325; A61B 5 /681; A45F
2005 /008 ; Y10T 24 /4782; A43C 11/ 165 ;
(71 ) Applicant: Apple Inc ., Cupertino , CA (US) A63B 2220 /836 ; A44C 5 / 0053
USPC .................... 224 /221 , 176 ; 24 /68 J, 265 WS
See application file for complete search history .
( 72 ) Inventors : Andrzej T. Baranski, Cupertino , CA
(US); Serhan 0 . Isikman , Cupertino ,
CA (US ); Tyler S . Bushnell , Cupertino , (56 ) References Cited
CA (US ); Steven J . Martisauskas , U .S . PATENT DOCUMENTS
Cupertino , CA (US ); David I. Nazzaro ,
Groveland, MA (US) 1 ,313,644 A * 8/ 1919 Simon ........ A44C 5 / 22
224 /176
(73) Assignee: APPLE INC., Cupertino , CA (US) 1 ,692,079 A 11/1928 D ’ Alo
1 ,817 ,475 A * 8 / 1931 Becker ... . . . . . . . . A44C 5 /22
( * ) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this 3 ,890 , 801 A * 6 / 1975 Newman .........
224 / 176
A44C 5 /22
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 224 / 176
U .S .C . 154 (b ) by 113 days . 4,941,236 A 7/1990 Sherman et al.
( 21) Appl. No.: 14 /691, 217 ( Continued )
(22) Filed : Apr. 20 , 2015 FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
CN 2862782 1 /2007
(65) Prior Publication Data CN 201683167 12 /2010
US 2016/0255944 A1 Sep . 8, 2016 (Continued )
Primary Examiner — Justin Larson
Related U .S . Application Data (74 ) Attorney, Agent, or Firm — McDermott Will &
(60 ) Provisional application No. 62 /129,950, filed on Mar. Emery LLP
8 , 2015 .
(57) ABSTRACT
(51) Int. CI. Systems and methods for dynamically adjusting the fit of a
A44C 5 /00 ( 2006 . 01) wearable electronic device are disclosed . In many embodi
A44C 5 / 20 ( 2006 .01) ments, a tensioner associated with a wearable electronic
A45F 5 /00 (2006 .01) device can control one or more actuators that are mechani
A61B 5 /00 ( 2006 .01) cally coupled to either the housing or to a band attached to
A44C 5 /08 (2006 .01) the wearable electronic device . In one example, in response
(52 ) U . S . CI. to a signal to increase the tightness of the band, the tensioner
CPC .......... A44C 5/ 2071 ( 2013.01) ; A44C 5 /0069 can cause the actuator ( s ) to increase the tension within the
( 2013 . 01 ); A44C 5 / 20 ( 2013 . 01 ) ; A44C 5 / 0053 band.
( 2013 .01) ; A44C 5 /08 ( 2013 .01); A45F
2005/008 (2013 .01) ; A61B 5 /681 (2013 .01) 24 Claims, 26 Drawing Sheets
RECEIVE COMMAND TO OBTAIN BIOMETRIC 2402

DATA
1900
BEGIN TIGHTENING BY ACTIVATING

1904 h 2404
TENSIONER MECHANISM
DISCONTINUE TIGHTENING UPON OBTAINING 2406

A7
SELECTED TIGHTNESS
1902
1910 OBTAIN BIOMETRIC DATA h2408
DEACTIVATE BAND TENSIONER MECHANISM 2410

US 9,781 ,984 B2
Page 2
(56 ) References Cited 2007/0125816 A1 * 6 / 2007 Myers .................. A44C 5 /0007
224 /221
U . S . PATENT DOCUMENTS 2008 /0060224 A1* 3/2008 Whittlesey ........... A43B 3/0005
36 / 88
5 ,485 ,848 A * 1/ 1996 Jackson .............. A61B 5 /0002 2008 /0086911 A1* 4 /2008 Labbe A43B 11 /00
600 /485 36 /50 . 1
6 , 301,754 B1 10 /2001 Grunberger et al. 2012/0102691 Al * 5/2012 Han ................. A44B 11/ 008
6 ,799, 887 B1 10 / 2004 Kinney 24/68 J
7 ,562,640 B2 7 / 2009 Lalor
7 ,618 ,384 B2 * 11/ 2009 Nardi A61B 5 /6828
2014/0070042 Al* 3/2014 Beers . .. A61F2425 //413
028
601/ 101 2014 /0094728 A1 * 4 /2014 Soderberg ............... A61F 5 /028
7 ,690, 220 B2 4 / 2010 Okamura 602/6
7 ,752,774 B2 * 7 /2010 Ussher ............... A43B 3 / 0005 2015 /0135410 A1 * 5 /2015 Wu A44C 5 / 18
36 /100 2 /338
8,147,417 B2 * 4/2012 Gavriely ........... A61B 17/ 1325 2016 /0255944 A1 * 9 /2016 Baranski .............. A44C 5 /0069
600 /499 2016 / 0272458 A1 * 9 / 2016 Beers ..... A61F 5 /028
8,370,998 B2 * 2/2013 Han A44B 11 /008
24 /265 WS
2016 /0345653 A1 * 12/2016 Beers
2016 / 0345661 A1 * 12 /2016 Beers ..
.. A43B 3 /0005
.... A43B 13/ 14
8 ,522 ,456 B2 * 9 /2013 Beers .......... A43B 3 /0005
24 /68 SK FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
8 ,769,844 B2 7 / 2014 Beers et al.
9 ,044, 372 B2 * 6 / 2015 Wild .. . . .. . . .. . . . .. . A61H 9 /0071 CN 201846934 6 / 2011
9 , 129 ,503 B2 * 9 / 2015 Borlenghi .......... GO8B 21/0269 CN 201869909 6 / 2011
9 , 144, 273 B2 * 9 / 2015 Wu .... ..... A44C 5 / 18 CN 102488365 6 / 2012
9 , 204 ,690 B1 * 12 / 2015 Alt ......................... A43C 11 / 20 JP S59186504 3 /2007
9 ,307 ,804 B2 * 4 / 2016 Beers ................... A43B 3 /0005 2010207411 9 /2010
9 , 365,387 B2 * 6 / 2016 Beers ...................... A61F 5 /028 KR 20080000609 4 / 2008
2004 /0025984 A1 * 2 /2004 Holemans ............ A44C 5 /0092
148 /563 * cited by examiner
atent
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Oct. 10 , 2017 Sheet 1 of 26 US 9 ,781, 984 B2
100 106 102

104 2 or
108
FIG . IA
100
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104
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FIG . 1B
atent Oct. 10 , 2017 Sheet 2 of 26 US 9 ,781,984 B2
204 .
1 202
1202
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204 .
1200 I 202
FIG . 2C
204
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FIG . 2A FIG . 2D
atent Oct. 10 , 2017 Sheet 3 of 26 US 9,781,984 B2
304
306 PROCESSOR
308 4
308 MEMORY
MEMORY
H310
310 S SENSOR
ENSOR (S )
312 H DISPLAY ( S )
300
314 PHYSICAL /ROTARY INPUT( S )
316 H TOUCH /FORCE INPUT(S )
318 H ACOUSTIC INPUT(S)/OUTPUT(S)
320 H HAPTIC OUTPUT ( S )
322 H NETWORK I/ O
324 - TENSIONER (S)
302
FIG . 3A
atent Oct. 10 , 2017 Sheet 4 of 26 US 9 ,781, 984 B2
300
312 326
FIG . 3B
atent Oct. 10 , 2017 Sheet 5 of 26 US 9 ,781 , 984 B2
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atent Oct. 10 , 2017 Sheet 10 of 26 US 9, 781,984 B2
808a -
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U.S. Patent
atent Oct. 10 , 2017
1204
-- ---
Sheet 13 of 26
1200
US 9 ,781, 984 B2
1208 H11 A2
1208 A1 H 1206
s 1202
FIG . 12A
1200
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1208 1206
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atent Oct. 10 , 2017 Sheet 14 of 26 US 9, 781,984 B2
1300
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atent Oct. 10 , 2017 Sheet 18 of 26 US 9 ,781 ,984 B2
h 1804
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atent Oct. 10, 2017 Sheet 19 of 26 US 9,781 ,984 B2
1910
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atent Oct. 10, 2017 Sheet 20 of 26 US 9 ,781,984 B2
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FIG, 20A FIG, 20B

atent Oct. 10, 2017 Sheet 21 of 26 US 9 , 781 ,984 B2
2108
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FIG. 21A
RECEIVE COMMAND TO TIGHTEN BAND h 2202

BY A SELECTED AMOUNT
BEGIN TIGHTENING BY ACTIVATING h 2204

TENSIONER
DISCONTINUE TIGHTENING UPON OBTAINING

SELECTED TIGHTNESS h 2206
FIG . 22
DETERMINE BAND TIGHTNESS HAS CHANGED h2302

FROM USER -SELECTED TIGHTNESS
BEGIN ADJUSTING TIGHTNESS BY

ACTIVATING OR DEACTIVATING BAND h2304
TENSIONER MECHANISM
DISCONTINUE ADJUSTING TIGHTNESS UPON

OBTAINING USER -SELECTED TIGHTNESS 12306
FIG . 23
RECEIVE COMMAND TO OBTAIN BIOMETRIC - 2402

DATA
BEGIN TIGHTENING BY ACTIVATING h 2404

TENSIONER MECHANISM
DISCONTINUE TIGHTENING UPON OBTAINING W 2406

SELECTED TIGHTNESS
OBTAIN BIOMETRIC DATA h 2408
DEACTIVATE BAND TENSIONER MECHANISM h 2410
FIG . 24
RECEIVE COMMAND TO NOTIFY USER h2502
BEGIN TIGHTENING BY ACTIVATING W2504

TENSIONER MECHANISM
FIG . 25
DETECT HEIGHTENED ACTIVITY h 2602
BEGIN TIGHTENING BY ACTIVATING

h 2604
TENSIONER MECHANISM
FIG . 26
US 9,781, 984 B2
DYNAMIC FIT ADJUSTMENT FOR electronic device secured by a band to a user, the method
WEARABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES including at least the operations of receiving a signal with an
CROSS -REFERENCE TO RELATED
instruction to adjust the fit of the band , selecting an opera
tional mode ( e. g ., tightening mode , loosening mode, flex
APPLICATION 5 ibility mode , rigid mode, etc .) of a tensioner coupled to
This application is a nonprovisional patent application of electronic device , and actuating the tensioner based on the
and claimsthe benefit of U .S . Provisional Patent Application instruction .
No . 62 / 129 , 950 , filed Mar. 8, 2015 and titled “ Dynamic Further embodiments described herein may relate to ,
Adjustment for Wearable Electronic Devices,” the disclo - 10 include, or take the form of a method of soliciting attention
sure ofwhich is hereby incorporated herein by reference in of a user by adjusting the fit of a wearable electronic device
its entirety. secured to the user by a band, the method including at least
the operations of receiving an instruction to solicit attention
TECHNICAL FIELD of the user , and in response , actuating a tensioner coupled to
the
Embodiments described herein relate to systems and 15 tightness wearable electronic device to cause an increase in the
methods for affixing an electronic device to an object and , of the band .
more particularly , to systems and methods for dynamic include, orembodiments
Other
take the
described herein may relate to ,
form of a method of restraining a
adjustment of the fit of wearable electronic devices .
wearable electronic device secured by a strap to a user
BACKGROUND 20 engaged in physical activity , the method including at least
the operations of receiving an indication that the user may be
Some electronic devices may be removably attached to a engaged in physical activity , and in response, actuating a
user. For example , a wristwatch or fitness/health tracking tensioner coupled to the wearable electronic device to
device can be attached to a user 's wrist by joining free ends increase the tightness of the strap .
of a watch band together . 25
In many cases , watch bands may have limited fit adjust BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
ment increments available . For example, some bands have
an incrementally user-adjustable size ( e . g ., a buckling clasp , Reference will now be made to representative embodi
pin and eyelet, etc . ) whereas other bands have a substantially ments illustrated in the accompanying figures . It should be
fixed size, adjustable only with specialized tools and/or 30 understood that the following descriptions are not intended
expertise ( e. g ., folding clasp , deployment clasp , snap - fit to limit the disclosure to one preferred embodiment. To the
clasp , etc .) . Still other bands may be elasticated expansion contrary, each is intended to cover alternatives, modifica
type bands that stretch to fit around a user 's wrist. tions, and equivalents as may be included within the spirit
In many cases, conventional watch bands may catch , and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the
pinch , or pull a user 's hair or skin during use if the band is 35 appended claims.
overly tight. In other cases, watch bands may slide along a FIG . 1A depicts a perspective view of an example wear
user ' s wrist, turn about a user 's wrist, or may be otherwise able electronic device loosely attached by a band to a user.
uncomfortable or bothersome to a user if the band is overly FIG . 1B depicts a perspective view of an example wear
loose . These problems can be exacerbated during periods of able electronic device tightly attached by a band to a user.
heightened activity , such as while running or playing sports . 40 FIG . 2A depicts a top plan view of an example wearable
Furthermore, adjusting the size or fit of conventional watch electronic device with a two - piece band system for attaching
bands often requires multiple steps , specialized tools, and /or to a user .
technical expertise . In other cases , sizing options available FIG . 2B depicts a side plan view of an example wearable
to a user may be insufficient to obtain a proper fit. In still electronic device with an overlapping two -piece band sys
further examples, the fit may be different and/or may be 45 tem for attaching to a user.
perceived to be different given certain environmental (e . g . FIG . 2C depicts a side plan view of an example wearable
temperature ,humidity ) or biological conditions (e. g., sweat, electronic device with a mortise -tenon band system for
inflammation ). As a result, users of conventional wrist attaching to a user.
watches and/ or fitness /health tracking devices may select a FIG . 2D depicts a side plan view of an example wearable
tolerable (although not optimally comfortable ) fit, reserving 50 electronic device with an interlacing band system for attach
tight bands for fitness/health tracking devices and loose ing to a user.
bands for conventional wristwatches . FIG . 3A depicts a simplified block diagram of a wearable
However, some wearable electronic devices ( such as electronic device .
smart watches ) may be multi -purpose devices , providing in FIG . 3B depicts a perspective view of an example wear
one example both fitness/health tracking and timekeeping 55 able electronic device depicting a user instructing the wear
functionality . Accordingly , a user may prefer the fit of a able electronic to adjust the fit of the band .
smart watch to vary with use. For example , a usermay prefer FIG . 4A depicts a top plan view of an example wearable
a looser fit in a timekeeping mode and a tighter fit in a electronic device with a two-piece band system configured
fitness /health tracking mode. to contract along its length in response to an electrical signal
Accordingly , there may be a present need for systems and 60 from a tensioner.
methods for dynamic adjustment of the fit of wearable FIG . 4B depicts a top plan view of the example wearable
electronic devices . electronic device of FIG . 4A , showing the two-piece band
system in a contracted configuration .
SUMMARY FIG . 4C depicts a top plan view of another example
65 wearable electronic device with a two-piece band system
Embodiments described herein may relate to , include, or configured to partially contract along its length in response
take the form of a method of adjusting the fit of a wearable to an electrical signal from a tensioner .
US 9, 781, 984 B2
FIG . 4D depicts a side plan view of another example figured to extend toward or retract from a user 's skin in
wearable electronic device with a two -piece band system response to an electrical signal from a tensioner.
configured to contract along its thickness in response to an FIG . 13B depicts a side plan view of the example wear
electrical signal from a tensioner. able electronic device of FIG . 13A , depicting an extended
FIG . 5A depicts a top plan view of an example wearable 5 housing portion .
electronic device with a two -piece band system configured FIG . 14A depicts a side plan view of an example wearable
to retract into the body of the wearable electronic device in electronic device with an extendable buckle portion config
response to an electrical signal from a tensioner. ured to extend toward or retract from a user' s skin in
FIG . 5B depicts a side plan view of the example wearable response to an electrical signal from a tensioner.
electronic device of FIG . 5A showing a lug-based band 10 FIG . 14B depicts a side plan view of the example wear
attachment system . able electronic device of FIG . 14A depicting an extended
FIG . 5C depicts another side plan view of the example buckle portion .
wearable electronic device of FIG . 5A showing a channel- FIG . 15A depicts a side plan view of an example wearable
based attachment system . electronic device with another extendable housing portion
FIG . 5D depicts another side plan view of the example 15 configured to extend toward or retract from a user 's skin in
wearable electronic device of FIG . 5A showing a permanent response to an electrical signal from a tensioner.
attachment system . FIG . 15B depicts a side plan view of the example wear
FIG . 6A depicts a top plan view of an example wearable able electronic device of FIG . 15A , depicting an extended
electronic device with a segmented band system configured housing portion .
to contract along its length in response to an electrical signal 20 FIG . 16 depicts a top plan view of an example wearable
from a tensioner. electronic device with another two -piece band system con
FIG . 6B depicts a top plan view of the example wearable figured to retract toward the body of the wearable electronic
electronic device of FIG . 6A , showing the segmented band device in response to an electrical signal from a tensioner.
system in a contracted configuration . FIG . 17 depicts a top plan view of an example wearable
FIG . 7A depicts a top plan view of an example wearable 25 electronic device with another two-piece band system con
electronic device with a woven band system configured to figured to retract into the body of the wearable electronic
contract along its length and/ or width in response to an device in response to an electrical signal from a tensioner.
electrical signal from a tensioner. FIG . 18 depicts a top plan view of an example wearable
FIG . 7B depicts a detail view of the example wearable electronic device with another two-piece band system con
electronic device of FIG . 7A . 30 figured to retract toward the body ofthe wearable electronic
FIG . 7C depicts a detail view of the example wearable device in response to an electrical signal from a tensioner.
electronic device of FIG . 7A , showing the woven band FIG . 19 A depicts a top plan view of an example wearable
system in a contracted configuration . electronic device with another two -piece band system con
FIG . 8A depicts a top plan view of an example wearable figured to contract along its length in response to an elec
electronic device with a two-part band system , each band 35 trical signal from a tensioner or in response to a user input.
configured to slide relative to the other band in response to FIG . 19B depicts a side plan view of the example wear
an electrical signal from a tensioner. able electronic device of FIG . 19A in a closed configuration .
FIG . 8B depicts a side plan view of the example wearable FIG . 20A depicts a side plan view of an example wearable
electronic device of FIG . 8A . electronic device with a movable housing configured to
FIG . 8C depicts a side plan view of the example wearable 40 move toward or away from a user ' s skin in response to an
electronic device of FIG . 8A in a contracted configuration . electrical signal from a tensioner .
FIG . 9 depicts a side plan view of an example wearable FIG . 20B depicts a side plan view of the example wear
electronic device with a bracelet- style band system config - able electronic device of FIG . 20A , depicting the movable
ured to rotate the housing of the wearable electronic device housing in an elevated position .
toward or away from a user ' s wrist in response to an 45 FIG . 21A depicts a top plan view ofan example wearable
electrical signal from a tensioner. electronic device with a pin and eyelet and interlacing band
FIG . 10 depicts a side plan view of an example wearable system configured such that the pin moves along the longi
electronic device with a loop -style band system configured tudinal axis of the band system in response to an electrical
to tighten or loosen the loop in response to an electrical signal from a tensioner.
signal from a tensioner . 50 FIG . 21B depicts a side plan view of the example wear
FIG . 11 A depicts a side plan view of an example wearable able electronic device of FIG . 21A .
electronic device with a bladder -style band system config - FIG . 22 is a flow chart that depicts example operations of
ured to increase or decrease pressure within one or more a method of tightening the fit of a wearable electronic
bladders in response to an electrical signal from a tensioner. device .
FIG . 11B depicts a side plan view of the example wear - 55 FIG . 23 is a flow chart that depicts example operations of
able electronic device of FIG . 11A , depicting inflated blad a method of dynamically adjusting the fit of a wearable
ders . electronic device .
FIG . 12A depicts a side plan view of an example wearable FIG . 24 is a flow chart that depicts example operations of
electronic device with another bladder- style band system a method of dynamically adjusting the fit of a wearable
configured to increase or decrease pressure within one or 60 electronic device prior to obtaining biometric data with a
more bladders in response to an electrical signal from a biometric sensor.
tensioner. FIG . 25 is a flow chart that depicts example operations of
FIG . 12B depicts a side plan view of the example wear a method of dynamically adjusting the fit of a wearable
able electronic device of FIG . 12A , depicting inflated blad electronic device as a means of soliciting a user's attention .
ders . 65 FIG . 26 is a flow chart that depicts example operations of
FIG . 13A depicts a side plan view of an example wearable a method of dynamically adjusting the fit of a wearable
electronic device with an extendable housing portion con electronic device in response to heightened user activity .
US 9, 781, 984 B2
The use of the same or similar reference numerals in watch band may space sizing eyelets approximately 8 mm
different drawings can indicate similar, related , or identical apart . In some cases , a user may prefer a fit corresponding
items. to a location between two eyelets . In some examples ,
especially for users having relatively small wrists , an error
DETAILED DESCRIPTION 5 of + 4 mm ( e . g ., example of error halfway between “ too
tight” and “ too loose” ) can correspond to an error upwards
Embodiments described herein relate to systems and of + 5 % of the circumference of that user ' s wrist, which , for
methods for dynamic adjustment of the fit of wearable many users , may be intolerable .
electronic devices . It should be appreciated that the various As a result , users of conventional wristwatches and/ or
embodiments described herein , as well as functionality, 10 fitness /health tracking devices may select a tolerable ( al
operation , components , and capabilities thereof may be though not optimally comfortable ) fit, reserving tighter
combined with other elements , embodiments , structures and bands for fitness /health tracking devices and looser bands
the like, and so any physical, functional, or operational for conventional wristwatches .
discussion of any element or feature is not intended to be However, as noted above, some wearable electronic
limited solely to a particular embodiment to the exclusion of 15 devices , such as smart watches , may be multi-purpose
others . devices . For example , many smart watches provide both
As noted above , many portable electronic devices may be fitness /health tracking and timekeeping functionality. Thus ,
removably attached to a user. In some examples , a heart rate many users may wear a smart watch exclusively , instead of
sensor may be attached to a user 's chest by a strap . In periodically switching between wearing a traditional wrist
another example, a portable audio player may be secured to 20 watch and a separate fitness/health tracking device . In these
a user ' s arm by inserting the player into an armband case . In examples, a user may prefer the fit of a smart watch to vary
another example , a wearable electronic device such as a with use . For example , a user may prefer a looser fit in a
smart watch or a fitness device can be attached to a user ' s timekeeping mode and a tighter fit in a fitness /health track
wrist by joining free ends of a conventional watch band ing mode .
together. In other examples , a clasp or an elasticated band 25 As may be appreciated , the inconvenience associated with
may be used to secure the wearable electronic device . repeated resizing and reattachment of a conventional watch
Although many embodiments are described herein with band may contribute to diminishing use of a wearable
reference to wrist bands for attaching a wrist -worn elec electronic device, which may, in turn , precipitate a customer
tronic device to a user , one may appreciate that other form retention problem for the manufacturer thereof. In other
factors may be favored in other embodiments. In other 30 examples, such as for wearable electronic devices config
words, the methods, systems, and techniques described ured to collect health -related information (e . g ., pulse rate ,
herein with illustrative reference to wrist-worn devices may blood oxygen saturation , blood pressure , insulin levels, etc. )
be equally applied to non -wrist worn devices. For example , or to provide health - related notifications ( e . g ., prescription
in other embodiments, devices may be configured to attach timing reminders, medical alerts, medical identification
to other limbs or body portions ( e . g ., necklaces , arm bands, 35 numbers , etc . ), discontinued use of the wearable electronic
waistbands, ear hooks , finger rings, anklets, toe rings , chest device may lead to more serious consequences such as
wraps, head bands, etc.). Furthermore , other embodiments health problems,medical emergencies, and/or incomplete or
described herein may be applied to dynamically adjust the fit inconsistent medial data collection .
of an electronic device to a non -user object such as a Accordingly, many embodiments described herein relate
charging stand or station . In other embodiments , an elec - 40 to systems and methods for dynamic adjustment of the fit of
tronic device can be fit to another biological subject such as the wearable electronic devices .
an animal (e .g., pet collar ). For example , certain embodiments described herein take
As noted above , many conventional watch bands may be the form of methods for adjusting the fit of a wearable
uncomfortable , painful, or bothersome if improperly fit to a electronic device secured by a band to a user, the method
user. For example , a user ' s skin and/ or hair may be pinched 45 including the operations of receiving a signal with an
or pulled if a conventional watch band is improperly fit. In instruction to adjust the fit of the band , selecting an opera
another example , a user may be irritated by a watch that tional mode (e . g ., tightening mode, loosening mode , flex
slides up and down a user' s wrist and /or rotates about the ibility mode, rigid mode, etc . ) of a tensioner coupled to
user ' s wrist during use . electronic device, and actuating the tensioner based on the
In other cases , the fit of a conventional watch band may 50 instruction .
be different and / or may be perceived to be different given In some embodiments , the signal received in the course of
different situations . For example , in humid conditions, the fit operating methods described herein may be generated within
of a band may be perceived to be tighter. In another example , the wearable electronic device itself. For example , a wear
a user who is sweating may perceive the fit of a band to be able electronic device such as a smart watch may periodi
looser. In many cases, these problems can be exacerbated 55 cally adjust its own fit. In other examples, the wearable
during periods of heightened activity, such as while running electronic device can generate the signal in response to input
or playing sports. from a user. For example , a user can provide input to a touch
Despite the prevalence of issues associated with improp - screen of the wearable electronic device to indicate to the
erly fit bands, adjusting the size or fit of conventional watch wearable electronic device the user 's desire for the fit of the
bands often requires multiple steps , specialized tools , and / or 60 device to change, either with increased tightness or
technical expertise . For example , a metal link band may decreased tightness.
require specialized tools to remove one or more links of the In another example , the signal received may be generated
band to resize the band. In other cases, a leather band with by a secondary electronic device in communication with the
a deployment clasp may need to be physically cut to size in wearable electronic device . For example , in some embodi
order to resize the band . 65 ments, a personal cellular phone in communication with a
In other cases, watch bands may have limited fit adjust - wearable electronic device can provide a signal to the
ment increments available. For example , a conventional wearable electronic device to adjust the fit thereof. In still
US 9, 781, 984 B2
further embodiments , the signal received may be generated cause , either directly or indirectly , tension in a band or strap
by a network device such as a server. In these examples , the coupled to an electronic device housing to increase or
server in communication with the wearable electronic device decrease .
can provide a signal to the wearable electronic device to In some examples, a tensioner associated with and /or
adjust the fit thereof. 5 coupled to the wearable electronic device can also be
In many cases , the instruction associated with the signal coupled to a portion of the band that is configured to
received in the course of operating methods described herein compress in response to an electrical signal. For example, a
may include one or more values that correspond to a mode shape memory wire such as Nitinol can be formed in a
with which the fit of the wearable electronic device should longitudinal serpentine pattern within one or more portions
be changed . For example, in some embodiments , the instruc - 10 of a band . The tensioner can increase a current ( or voltage )
tion can include a value or pointer (e . g ., selection bit , applied to the Nitinol in response to an instruction to
function name, etc .) that indicates the tightness of the fit of increase the tightness of the band or can decrease a current
the wearable electronic device should increase, correspond (or voltage ) applied to the Nitinol in response to an instruc
ing to a tightening mode . In another example, the instruction tion to decrease the tightness of the band . In response to the
can include a value or pointer that indicates the tightness of 15 increase or decrease in the length of the longitudinal and
the fit of the wearable electronic device should decrease , serpentine Nitinol, the band can experience an increase or
corresponding to a loosening . decrease in length which , in turn , can cause an increase or
In further examples , the instruction can also include a decrease the tightness of the fit of the band.
value or pointer corresponding to an amount ormagnitude of In other examples, Nitinol can be formed in a serpentine
change , either relative or absolute . For example , an instruc - 20 pattern through the thickness or width of one or more
tion as described above can include a value or pointer portions of a band . In these embodiments, the tensioner can
indicating that the fit should be changed by 5 % . In another increase a current ( or voltage ) applied to the Nitinol in
example , an instruction as described above can include a response to an instruction to decrease the tightness of the
value or pointer indicating that the fit should be changed by band and , correspondingly , can decease a current (or volt
shortening a band by 1 mm . In another example , an instruc - 25 age ) applied to the Nitinol in response to an instruction to
tion as described above can include a value or pointer increase the tightness of the band. In response to the increase
indicating that the fit should be changed by extending a or decrease in the width and/ or thickness of the band, the
portion of the housing of the wearable electronic device by band can experience a respective decrease or increase in
3 mm . In another example , an instruction as described above length which , in turn , decreases or increases the tightness of
can include a value or pointer indicating that the fit should 30 the fit of the band .
be change by applying a force of 0. 1 Newtons to the band . In some examples, one or more portions of a band can
In other embodiments , other values and /or pointers may be include a bladder in communication with a pump or actuator
used . disposed within the housing of the wearable electronic
In further examples , the instruction can include a value or device . The tensioner may be configured to control the
pointer corresponding to a threshold of change . For 35 pressure applied by the pump to a fluid in communication
example , an instruction as described above can include a with the bladder. In some cases the fluid can be a gas or a
value or pointer indicating that the fit should be changed by liquid . For example, in some embodiments, air can be used
extending a portion of the housing of the wearable electronic as the fluid in communication with the bladder. In other
device until the portion comes into contact with the user ' s cases , a liquid with a low viscosity such as oil or water can
skin and applies pressure of 1,000 N /m² ( e. g., 0 . 15 psi). In 40 be used as the fluid in communication with the bladder. In
other embodiments, other threshold values and/ or pointers these embodiments, the tensioner can increase the pressure
may be used . applied by the pump to the fluid in response to an instruction
In many cases, and as described above , the instruction to increase the tightness of the band or can decrease the
may be subdivided into multiple parts (or subcomponents ) pressure applied by the pump in response to an instruction
including, in some examples , a mode , a magnitude, and /or a 45 to decrease the tightness of the band . In response to the
threshold . In this manner, a variety of functions can be increase or decrease in pressure , the bladder can experience
performed . For example , a band can tighten or loosen an increase or decrease in volume, which , in turn , increases
without a target (e.g., “ become generally tighter” or or decreases the tightness of the band .
“ become generally looser” ), can tighten or loosen by an In another embodiment, the tensioner can be connected to
increment (e .g., “ become X tighter” or “ become X looser ” ), 50 a coupling that joins the band at one or more points to the
can tighten or loosen until a threshold is reached ( e . g ., housing of the wearable electronic device . In some
“ become tighter until ” or “ become looser until" ), apply a examples, the coupling can be a lug that extends from the
specific value of greater or less tightness (e . g ., " apply housing of the wearable electronic device . In such an
tightness X ” ), apply a tightness or looseness as a function of embodiment, the tensioner can withdraw the coupling into
time ( e.g ., “ become tighter for 1 second , then loosen ” ) . 55 the housing of the wearable electronic device in response to
As noted above, a tensioner can be coupled to the wear - an instruction to increase the tightness of the band or can
able electronic device . In many cases, a tensioner can be an extend the coupling from the housing of the wearable
analog, digital, or integrated circuit configured to apply an electronic device in response to an instruction to decrease
electrical signal to cause tension (either directly or indi- the tightness of the band .
rectly ) to be applied to , or relieved form , the band . In other 60 In another embodiment, the tensioner can be connected to
cases, a tensioner can be a physical apparatus such as a an extendable portion of the housing of the wearable elec
motor, electromagnetic coil, or solenoid that can be actuated tronic device oriented to extend toward ( or retract from ) the
to cause tension (either directly or indirectly ) to be applied user 's skin . For example, in certain embodiments the
to , or relieved form , the band. Accordingly, the term “ ten - extendable portion can extend toward a user' s wrist or, in
sioner ” and related phrases and terminology is used herein 65 other examples , the extendable portion can retract from the
to generally refer to a circuit , apparatus, controller, or user 's wrist. In such an embodiment, the tensioner can
program code executed by a processor, that is configured to extend the extendable portion in response to an instruction
US 9, 781, 984 B2
10
to increase the tightness of the band or can withdraw the configured to obtain a measurement or an approximation of
extendable portion into the housing of the wearable elec the tightness of the band . In response to a tightness mea
tronic device in response to an instruction to decrease the surement above a selected threshold , the tension sensor can
tightness of the band. provide a signal to the wearable electronic device that the
In other embodiments , the tensionermay be coupled to , or 5 wearable electronic device can provide to the tensioner in
configured to control the operation of, one or more mecha order to loosen the fit of the band . Conversely , in response
nisms, components , or apparatuses capable to reduce or to a tightness measurement below a selected threshold , the
increase one or more dimensions of the band . For example , tension sensor can provide a signal to the wearable elec
in some cases, the tensioner can be coupled to an apparatus tronic device that the wearable electronic device can provide
capable to increase or decrease the length of the band . In 10
another example , the tensioner can be coupled to an appa further examplesin, order
to the tensioner to tighten the fit of the band . In still
in response to a tightness measurement
ratus capable to increase or decrease the thickness of the between selected thresholds, the tension sensor can provide
band . In other examples, the tensioner can be coupled to an a signal to the wearable electronic device that the wearable
apparatus capable to increase or decrease the width of the
band . In still further examples, the tensioner can be coupled 1515 ele
electronic device can use to determine that an adjustmentof
to an apparatus capable to increase or decrease the rigidity theStill fit of the wearable electronic device is not required .
further embodiments may include a configuration in
of the band.
In other embodiments, the tensioner may be coupled to , or which the instruction received in the course of operating
configured to control the operation of, one or more mecha methods described herein may be based on an operational
nisms, components , or apparatuses capable to reduce or 20 state of the wearable electronic device . For example , if a
increase one or more dimensions of the housing of the wearable electronic device is operated in a fitness mode, the
wearable electronic device . For example , as noted above, in tensioner can tighten the band to fit more snugly about the
some cases the tensioner can be coupled to an extendable user ' s wrist. In other examples, if a wearable electronic
portion that can extend toward or retract from a user ' s skin . device is operated in a non - fitness mode, the tensioner can
In other examples , the tensioner can be coupled to a portion 25 loosen the band .
of the wearable electronic device housing that is configured Still further embodiments may include a configuration in
to couple to the band itself. For example, as noted above , the which the instruction received in the course of operating
tensioner of some embodiments can be coupled to an methods described herein may be based on an operational
apparatus capable to withdraw into the housing of the state of a biometric sensor in communication with the
wearable electronic device and also configured to extend 30 wearable electronic device . For example , some biometric
from the housing of the wearable electronic device . In still sensors may obtain more accurate or precise biometric data
further embodiments, alternative tensioner, band , and /or if said biometric sensor is positioned within a certain dis
housing configurations, topologies, and interactions are con - tance of a user ' s skin .
templated . For example, a photoplethysmographic (“ PPG ” ) sensor
For example , some embodiments may include a configu - 35 may obtain more accurate and precise volumetric data if
ration in which the instruction received in the course of positioned in close proximity to a user' s skin . In these
operating methods described herein may be based on a user embodiments , a biometric sensor in communication with the
input to the wearable electronic device . For example , a user wearable electronic device may request an increase in tight
may provide input to the wearable electronic device via one n ess of the fit of the wearable electronic device prior to
ormore inputmechanisms such as a touch screen to indicate 40 obtaining data . Similarly , after obtaining biometric data, the
the user 's preference for the fit of the wearable electronic biometric sensor may request to return the fit of the wearable
device to tighten . In other examples, a user can provide input electronic device to the user 's preferred fit .
to the wearable electronic device to indicate the user ' s In many cases , other embodiments described herein relate
preference for the fit of the wearable electronic device to to methods of using a wearable electronic device having a
loosen . 45 dynamically adjustable fit. For example , some embodiments
Still further embodiments may include a configuration in described herein relate to a method of soliciting attention
which the instruction received in the course of operating (e. g ., notifying by providing haptic output) of a user by
methods described herein may be based on a user setting adjusting the fit of a wearable electronic device secured to
accessible to the wearable electronic device . For example , in the user by a band. The method can begin by receiving an
some cases the wearable electronic device may access a 50 instruction to solicit attention of the user of some event,
secondary portable electronic device , a remote server, or a condition , data , or other information , and in response , actu
memory within the wearable electronic device itself to a te a tensioner coupled to the wearable electronic device to
obtain an indication of a user 's preference for the fit of the cause an increase in the tightness of the band . For example ,
wearable electronic device . In some cases , a wearable elec - a user may desire to be notified of an incoming email
tronic device can query a portable electronic device in 55 message . Upon receiving an indication that a new email
communication therewith for a value corresponding to a message is received (or is being received ), the wearable
user ' s preference for the tightness of the fit of the wearable electronic device can increase the tightness of the band so as
electronic device . After obtaining the value from the por- to quietly and discretely notify the user of the message .
table electronic device , the wearable electronic device can In other cases , embodiments described herein relate to
provide the value to the tensioner in order to obtain or 60 other methods of using a wearable electronic device having
maintain the user ' s preferred fit . a dynamically adjustable fit . For example , a wearable elec
Still further embodiments may include a configuration in tronic device can be used to provide haptic feedback for a
which the instruction received in the course of operating cinema patron or a video game participant. In other
methods described herein may be based on an output from examples, a wearable electronic device can be connected to
a sensor in communication with the wearable electronic 65 home automation equipment. In such a case, a user may
device . For example , in some embodiments, the wearable receive a notification of a knock on the front door via a
electronic device can include a tension sensor that can be tightening of the wearable electronic device . In another case ,
US 9 ,781,984 B2
12
a user may receive a notification of a crying child in another used as an emergency immobilization cuff, tightening
room via a tightening of the wearable device . around an injury to prevent movement or blood loss.
In still other examples, a wearable electronic device FIG . 1A depicts a perspective view of an example wear
having a dynamically adjustable fit can be used as an able electronic device loosely attached by a band to a user.
authentication device in a two -factor authentication system . 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the wearable electronic
For example, if a user wishes to access financial details device 100 is implemented as a portable electronic device
hosted on a banking website, the banking website may that is worn on the wrist of a user 102 . Other embodiments
require both the user ' s credentials and a verification of a can implement the wearable electronic device differently .
number of tightening -loosening patterns sent to a wearable For
electronic device previously authenticated by the banking 10 phoneexample , the wearable electronic device can be a smart
website . For example , a user can enter the user' s credentials accessory device , device
, a gaming , a digital music player , a sports
(e .g., username and password ). Thereafter, the banking accessibility device, a devicedevice
a medical , navigation assistant,
that provides time and/or
website can send a tactile pattern to a wearable electronic weather information , a health assistant, and other types of
device previously authenticated by the banking website . In
ive is electronic
one example , a tactile pattern may be a series of five 15 elesThe wearable device suitable for attaching to a user.
squeezes of the user 's wrist ( e. g ., tighten and loosen in electronic device 100 includes a housing
sequence ). The user may thereafter enter “ 5 ” to gain access 104 and a display 106 . In many examples, the display 106
to the banking website . may incorporate an input device configured to receive user
In another embodiment, the wearable electronic device input. For example , a user can provide input to the display
may be operated in a fitness/health tracking mode. In these 20 106 to indicate the user's intention to increase the tightness
embodiments, the wearable electronic device may tighten of the fit of the wearable device . In other examples , the user
the fit of the band to count repetitions while the user is can provide a force input to the display 106 , the magnitude
weight lifting. In another embodiment the wearable elec - of which can correspond to the magnitude of tightness
tronic device may tighten the fit of the band to notify a increase in the fit the user desires to be implemented by the
running user of certain distance intervals ( e . g ., every kilo - 25 wearable electronic device 100 .
meter ). In another embodiment, the wearable electronic The housing 104 can form an outer surface or partial outer
device may notify a swimmer of an upcoming turn . surface and protective case for one or more internal com
In still further embodiments, the wearable electronic ponents of the wearable electronic device 100 . In the illus
device , operating as a navigation assistant, may tighten the trated embodiment, the housing 104 is formed into a sub
fit of the band to notify a user to turn a certain direction . In 30 stantially rectangular shape, although this configuration is
these embodiments , the wearable electronic device can not required and other shapes are possible in other embodi
tighten a right portion of a band to indicate a right turn and ments .
can tighten a left portion of a band to indicate a left turn . In The housing 104 can be formed of one or more compo
other embodiments, the wearable electronic device can nents operably connected together, such as a front piece and
tighten a band in order to wake a user from sleep . In another 35 a back piece or a top clamshell and a bottom clamshell.
embodiment, the electronic device can tighten based on the Alternatively , the housing 104 can be formed of a single
user 's geographic location. For example , if a user arrives at piece (e .g ., uniform body or unibody ) .
a fitness center, the wearable electronic device can tighten . The display 106 can be implemented with any suitable
Upon leaving the fitness center, the wearable electronic technology , including , but not limited to , a multi- touch
device can loosen . 40 sensing touchscreen that uses liquid crystal display ( LCD )
Also described herein are methods of restraining a wear - technology , light emitting diode (LED ) technology , organic
able electronic device secured by a strap to a user engaged light- emitting display (OLED ) technology , organic elec
in physical activity . For example , upon receiving an indica - troluminescence (OEL ) technology , or another type of dis
tion that the user may be engaged in physical activity ( e. g., play technology. In many embodiments, the display 106 can
via output from a motion and/ or acceleration sensor ), a 45 have a resolution beyond 200 pixels per inch . In many
wearable electronic device can actuate a tensioner coupled embodiments , the display 106 can be disposed below a
to the wearable electronic device to increase the tightness of protective cover glass formed from a rigid and scratch
the strap . In one example , when a user begins a physical resistant material such as ion -implanted glass, laminated
activity such as running, the wearable electronic device can glass , or sapphire .
respond by tightening around the user 's wrist in order to 50 As noted above, the display 106 can incorporate or be
prevent undesirable motion of the wearable electronic disposed proximate to an input sensor. For example , in some
device about or along the user 's wrist. embodiments, the display 106 can also include one or more
In many cases, other embodiments described herein relate contact sensors to determine the position of one or more
to methods of using one ormore wearable electronic devices contact locations on a top surface of the display 106 . For
having a dynamically adjustable fit as accessibility tools . For 55 example , a contact sensor (such as a touch sensor or touch
example , a user with sight impairment may operate a wear - sensor array ) can detect the location of one or more objects
able electronic device as a means for discretely navigating engaging the display 106 , such as a stylus or a user 's finger.
an unknown environment. For example , a sight-impaired In certain embodiments , a contact sensor can monitor an
user may receive a notification via tightening of the wear - electrical property, such as conductance or capacitance .
able electronic device if the sight-impaired user is approach - 60 Upon detecting that the electrical property has changed at a
ing an obstacle . In other examples, a hearing -impaired user location or area of the display 106 , the contact sensor can
may be notified when a loud sound is present of which the report that an object is contacting the input surface at the
hearing -impaired user may not be aware ( e . g ., knock at a specified location or area . In many cases , contact sensors
door ). In other embodiments , a wearable electronic device may report the locations of all objects engaging the input
such as described herein can provide compression therapy 65 surface. For example , a contact sensor may report two
for a user with venous disorders . In some embodiments, a independent contact locations when a user positions two
wearable electronic device such as described herein can be fingers on the display 106 .
US 9, 781, 984 B2
13 14
In some embodiments, the display 106 can also include tronic device 100 when attached to the wrist of user 102 . For
one ormore force - sensitive elements (not shown) to detect example, bands of certain embodiments may have a Shore A
a magnitude of force applied to the top surface of the display durometer ranging from 60 to 80 and /or a tensile strength
106 . In some examples, the force -sensitive elements can be greater than 12 MPa .
mechanically coupled to the underside of the display 106 . In 5 In some embodiments , a fluoroelastomeric polymer ( or
other examples, force - sensitive elements can be disposed other suitable polymer ) can be doped or treated with one or
around the perimeter of the display 106 . more other materials . For example , the polymer can be
A force - sensitive element associated with the display 106 doped with an agent configured to provide the polymer with
may be formed from a material or formed into a structure , a selected color, odor, taste , hardness, elasticity , stiffness ,
such that upon application of a force ( e . g ., compression , 10 reflectivity , refractive pattern , texture and so on . In other
expansion , tension , strain ), one or more electrical properties examples, the doping agent can confer other properties to the
of the material or structure can measurably change. Force - fluoroelastomeric polymer including, but not necessarily
sensitive electrical properties can include conductance, limited to , electrical conductivity and /or insulating proper
accumulated charge, inductance , magnetic field strength , ties, magnetic and /or diamagnetic properties , chemical resis
electrical field strength , capacitance , and so on . For 15 tance and /or reactivity properties, infrared and /or ultraviolet
example , a force -sensitive element formed from a piezo - light absorption and /or reflectivity properties , visible light
electric material can accumulate charge in response to an absorption and/ or reflectivity properties , antimicrobial and /
applied force . In another example , a force -sensitive element or antiviral properties , oleophobic and /or hydrophobic prop
can be formed as a structure (such as a number of layered erties , thermal absorption properties, pest repellant proper
materials ) having a capacitance that measurably varies with 20 ties, colorfast and /or anti- fade properties, deodorant
force . In another example , a force - sensitive element can be properties, antistatic properties , medicinal properties, liquid
formed from a strain -sensitive material that may measurably exposure reactivity properties, low and /or high friction prop
change in conductance ( e . g ., resistance ) in response to a erties , hypoallergenic properties , and so on .
force . In these and some embodiments , a known relationship In some embodiments , one or more doping agents may be
( e . g ., linear , exponential, and so on between the electrical 25 used . In further embodiments , the doping agents associated
property or properties and force applied can be used to with one area of the band 108 may be different from the
determine an amount of force applied to display 106 . doping agents associated with another area of the bands. In
The wearable electronic device 100 can include within the one example, a band may have a low friction dopant added
housing 104 a processor , a memory , a power supply and/ or to the portion of a band that faces a user ' s wrist ( e .g ., bottom
battery , network communications, sensors , display screens, 30 surface ) while having a high reflectivity dopant added to the
acoustic elements , input/ output ports , haptic elements , digi - portion of the band that faces outwardly ( e .g ., top surface ).
tal and/or analog circuitry for performing and/or coordinat In some embodiments, one or more doping agents may be
ing tasks of the wearable electronic device 100 , and so on . used to intentionally increase the elasticity of one or more
In some examples, the wearable electronic device 100 can portions of the band 108 . For example, in some embodi
communicate with a separate electronic device via one or 35 ments , a band 108 may include a compressible region having
more proprietary and/ or standardized wired and / or wireless a greater elasticity than other regions of the band 108. This
interfaces . For simplicity of illustration , the wearable elec - region can be configured to compress in response to an
tronic device 100 is depicted in FIG . 1A without many of electrical signal from the wearable electronic device 100 . In
these elements , each of which may be included , partially , other examples, the compressible region can also be con
optionally , or entirely , within the housing 104 . 40 figured to expand in response to an electrical signal from the
The wearable electronic device 100 can be coupled to the wearable electronic device 100 .
user 102 via a band 108 that loops around the user ' s wrist . In some examples, more than one compressible region
The band 108 can be formed from a compliant material, or can be used . In these cases , the several compressible regions
into a compliant structure, that is configured to easily of the band 108 can be independently, sequentially, or
contour to a user ' s wrist, while retaining stiffness sufficient 45 simultaneously compressed or expanded in response to an
to maintain the position and orientation of the wearable electrical signal from the wearable electronic device .
electronic device on the user 's wrist. The material selected In some embodiments, as noted above, the compressible
for the band 108 may vary from embodiment to embodi- regions can be formed via doping the material selected for
ment. For example , in certain cases , the band 108 can be the band 108 with a dopant that increases the elasticity
formed from metal, such as a band formed into a metal 50 and / or compressibility of that selected region . In other
mesh . In other embodiments, the band 108 can be formed examples, the compressible region (s ) can be formed by
from an organic material such as leather. In further hollowing a portion of the band 108 . In other examples , the
examples, the band 108 can be formed from an inorganic compressible region (s ) can be formed by partially thinning
material such as nylon . In still further embodiments , mate a portion of the band 108 . In still further examples , the
rials such as plastic , rubber, or other fibrous , organic , 55 compressible region (s ) can be formed by causing macro
polymeric , or synthetic materials may be used . scopic , microscopic , or nanoscopic pockets to form within
As can be appreciated , the relative stiffness of a band can the band 108 . For example , in one embodiment, pockets of
impact the tightness with which the band may be fit to a gas can be injected into a portion of the band . In another
user ' s wrist. For example , the more flexible the band 108 , example , a portion of the band 108 can be intentionally
the tighter the band should be secured to prevent the 60 weakened by microscopic perforations ( e. g ., via laser and/ or
wearable electronic device 100 from sliding, rotating, or water jet). In still further embodiments, a portion of the band
otherwise displacing on the user ' s wrist. can be formed as a foam , including many nano or micro
In some embodiments, the band 108 can be formed from scopic cavities .
a polymer, such as a fluoroelastomeric polymer, having a Other embodiments described herein include configura
Shore durometer selected for having flexibility suitable for 65 tions in which the band 108 is formed from a non - compliant
easily contouring to a user 's wrists while maintaining suf- material into a compliant structure . For example , a metallic
ficient stiffness to maintain support of the wearable elec - mesh can be used to form band 108. In other embodiments ,
US 9, 781, 984 B2
15 16
the band can be formed by joining a number of metal links and contract, alternatingly increasing and decreasing the
In other embodiments , the band can be formed by joining a light absorption capacity of the measurement site. In these
number of glass or crystal links. embodiments, the optical sensor ofthe PPG can collect light
In other embodiments, the band 108 can be formed form exiting the measurement site and generate electrical signals
a combination of complaint and non - compliant materials . 5 corresponding to the collected light. Thereafter, the electri
In many examples , the band 108 can be removably cal signals can be conveyed as raw data to the wearable
coupled to the housing 104 . For example , in certain embodi electronic device 100 , which in turn can process the raw data
ments , the band 108 can be at least partially looped around into health data 110 . The raw data can be based on infor
a watch pin that is configured to insert within lugs extending mation about the collected light, such as the chromaticity
from the body of the housing 104 . In other examples , the 10 and / or luminance of the light. In some cases, the health data
band 108 can be configured to slide within and be retained 110 can be shown on the display 106 as biometric feedback
by two or more channels within external sidewalls of the to the user 102 .
housing 104 . In other examples, the band 108 can be looped However, certain sensors such as PPG sensors may be
through and aperture in the housing 104 . In other cases , the susceptible to noise associated with ambient light, surface
band 108 can be riveted , screwed , or otherwise attached to 15 conditions of the measurement site ( e . g ., cleanliness , hair ,
the housing 104 via one or more mechanical fasteners . In perspiration , etc .), proximity of the optical sensor and /or
still further embodiments , additional removable couplings light source to the measurement site , and motion artifacts
between the band 108 and the housing 104 are possible. caused by the relative motion between the wearable elec
In other examples, the band 108 can be permanently tronic device 100 and the user 102 . As a result, if the
coupled to the housing 104 . For example , in some cases , the 20 wearable electronic device 100 is not snugly fit to the user
band 108 may be formed as an integral portion of the 102 ( at least while the PPG sensor is obtaining a measure
housing 104 . In other cases, the band 108 can be rigidly ment), for example as illustrated in FIG . 1A , the health data
adhered to the housing 104 via an adhesive . In still further 110 obtained from the sensor may be sub -optimal (e.g.,
embodiments , the band 108 can be welded , soldered , or insufficient or insignificant magnitude ) as a direct result of
chemically bonded to the housing 104 . In other embodi- 25 the improper fit. Alternatively, if the wearable electronic
ments , additional permanent couplings between the band device 100 is snugly fit to the user 102 , for example as
108 and the housing 104 are possible . illustrated in FIG . 1B , the health data 110 obtained from the
As noted above , the housing 104 may be rigid and can be sensormay be of substantially improved quality , magnitude,
configured to provide structural support and impact resis - and clarity .
tance for electronic or mechanical components contained 30 Although FIGS. 1A - 1B are sequentially illustrated to
therein . A rigid housing is not necessarily required for all show an improvement in the quality of health data 110
embodiments and, in some examples, the wearable elec - obtained by tightening the band 108 , one can appreciate that
tronic device 100 can have a housing may be flexible . in certain embodiments, the wearable electronic device 100
Furthermore , although wearable electronic device housings may dynamically resize the band 108 and /or the fit of the
are typically formed to take a rectangular shape, this is not 35 wearable electronic device 100 for reasons unrelated to
required and other shapes are possible . For example , certain sensor data quality .
housings may take a circular shape. For example , as mentioned above, a tensioner ( not shown )
In other embodiments, the wearable electronic device 100 can be coupled to the wearable electronic device 100 . In
can include one or more sensors ( not shown ) positioned on some examples , the tensioner can be included within the
a bottom surface of the housing 104 . Sensors utilized by the 40 housing 104 . In other examples, the tensioner can be
wearable electronic device 100 can vary from embodiment included within the band 108 . In still further examples, a
to embodiment. Suitable sensors can include temperature portion of the tensioner can be included within the housing
sensors , electrodermal sensors , blood pressure sensors , heart 104 and a portion of the tensioner can be included within the
rate sensors, respiration rate sensors, oxygen saturation band 108 . In some examples, the tensioner can be coupled
sensors, plethysmographic sensors , activity sensors, pedom - 45 to the band 108 and to the housing 104 . For example , the
eters , blood glucose sensors , body weight sensors, body fat tensioner can take the form of a coupling and / or a lug by
sensors , blood alcohol sensors , dietary sensors , and so on . which the band 108 couples to the housing 104 .
In many cases, sensors such as biometric sensors can In many cases, a tensioner can be an analog, digital, or
collect certain health -related information non - invasively. integrated circuit configured to apply an electrical signal to
For example , the wearable electronic device 100 can include 50 cause tension ( either directly or indirectly ) to be applied to ,
a sensor that is configured to measure changes in ( or an or relieved form , the band 108 . In other cases , a tensioner
amount of) light reflected from a measurement site ( e . g ., can be a physicalapparatus such as a motor, electromagnetic
wrist ) of the user 102 . In one embodiment, the biometric coil, or solenoid that can be actuated to cause tension ( either
sensor such as a PPG sensor can include a light source for directly or indirectly ) to be applied to , or relieved form , the
emitting light onto or into the wrist of the user 102 and an 55 band 108 .
optical sensor to detect light exiting the wrist of the user 102 . For example, in some embodiments , a tensioner can apply
Light from the light source may be scattered , absorbed , an electrical current or voltage to an element that contracts
and/ or reflected throughout the measurement sight as a or expands in the presence of an electrical current ( e. g .,
function of various physiological parameters or character piezoelectric materials , memory wire , electroactive poly
istics of the user 102 . For example , the tissue of the wrist of 60 mers , etc .). In other examples , the tensioner can apply a
the user 102 can scatter, absorb , or reflect light emitted by current to an electromagnetic coil positioned proximate to a
the light source differently depending on various physiologi- ferromagnetic material within the band . An increase in the
cal characteristics of the surface and subsurface of the user 's current applied to the electromagnetic coil can cause a
wrist. corresponding increase in the magnetic flux produced and ,
In many cases a PPG sensor can be used to detect a user 's 65 thus, an increase in the attractive force between the coil and
heart rate and blood oxygenation . For example , during each the ferromagnetic material. In other embodiments, a perma
complete heartbeat, a user ' s subcutaneous tissue can distend nent magnet can be disposed within the band such that the
US 9, 781, 984 B2
17 18
electromagnetic coil can be actuated to either repel or attract a ble or preferred fit. For example, a coarse fit for the
the permanent magnet. In still further examples, the ten wearable electronic device 200 may be different when the
sioner can be implemented as a motor geared to a worm gear user is operating the wearable electronic device 200 as a
that either extends or retracts the band . In other examples, fitness /health tracker than when the same user is operating
the tensioner can be implemented as a linear actuator. In 5 the wearable electronic device 200 as a conventional time
other examples , the tensioner can be implemented as a fluid keeping device .
control system that is configured to increase or decrease the As with the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1A - 1B , the
pressure and /or volume of a fluid within a particular portion first band 202 and the second band 204 can each be formed
of the band 108 or the housing 104 . In other embodiments, from a compliant material or into a compliant structure that
the tensioner can be implemented as a combination of 10 is configured to easily contour to a user ' s wrist, while
cooperating systems. retaining stiffness sufficient to maintain the position and
FIG . 2A depicts a top plan view of an example wearable orientation of the wearable electronic device on the user' s
electronic device 200 with a two -piece band system for wrist. In some embodiments, the first band 202 and the
attaching to a user. The wearable electronic device 200 can second band 204 may be formed from the samematerial, but
include a tensioner (not illustrated ) in order to provide 15 this is not necessarily required . For example , in some
dynamic adjustment of the fit of the wearable electronic embodiments the first band 202 can be formed from a leather
device 200. As with other embodiments described herein , material and the second band 204 can be formed from a
the tensioner may alter the fit of the wearable electronic metal material. In certain embodiments , the first band 202
device 200 in a number of ways . For example , the tensioner and the second band 204 are each formed from a fluoroelas
can adjust one or more dimensions of a band coupled to the 20 tomeric polymer. In still further embodiments, materials
wearable electronic device . In another example, the ten - such as plastic , rubber, or other fibrous , organic , polymeric ,
sioner can adjust a coupling between a band and the wear - or synthetic materials may be used .
able electronic device . In another example the tensioner can As noted above , the relative stiffness of the first band 202
adjust the position of the housing of the wearable electronic and the second band 204 can impact the tightness with which
device relative to the band . In still other embodiments , other 25 the band may be fit to a user ' s wrist. Accordingly , in many
adjustments are possible. embodiments , the wearable electronic device 200 may be
In the illustrated embodiment, the wearable electronic configured to adjust one ormore dimensions of the first band
device 200 is implemented as a portable electronic device 202 or the second band 204 . In other embodiments , the
that is adapted to be worn by a user, such as shown in FIGS. wearable electronic device 200 may be configured to adjust
1A - 1B . Other embodiments can implement the wearable 30 the coupling between the first band 202, the second band 204
device differently. For example , the wearable device can be and the housing of the wearable electronic device . In other
a smart phone, a gaming device, a digital music player, a embodiments , the wearable electronic device may be con
sports accessory device , a medical device , a device that figured to adjust the housing itself .
provides time and /or weather information , a health assistant, For example, in some embodiments, the length of the first
and other types of electronic device suitable for attaching to 35 band 202 can be increased or decreased in order to adjust the
a user. fit of the wearable electronic device 200 . In these embodi
As with the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 1A - 1B , the ments, the shorter the length of the first band 202 , the tighter
wearable electronic device 200 can include a housing and a the fit of the wearable electronic device 200 may be.
display . In many examples, the display may incorporate an Similarly, the longer the length of the first band 202, the
input device configured to receive touch input, force input, 40 looser the fit of the wearable electronic device 200 may be .
or other input from a user. The wearable electronic device Length adjustments to the first band 202 are shown in FIG .
200 may also include one or more buttons or input ports (not 2A with a bi- directional arrow labeled as adjustment Al.
shown). The housing can form a protective case for the In some embodiments, the length of the second band 204
internal components of the wearable electronic device 200 . can be increased or decreased in order to adjust the fit of the
In the illustrated embodiment, the housing is formed into a 45 wearable electronic device 200 . In these embodiments , the
substantially rectangular shape , although this configuration shorter the length of the second band 204 , the tighter the fit
is not required . of the wearable electronic device 200 may be. Similarly, the
The wearable electronic device 200 can be permanently or longer the length of the second band 204 , the looser the fit
removably attached to a band that is illustrated as a two -part of the wearable electronic device 200 may be . Length
band system including a first band 202 and a second band 50 adjustments to the second band 204 are shown in FIG . 2A
204 . In some embodiments, when attaching to a user 's wrist, with a bi- directional arrow labeled as adjustment A2 .
the first band 202 can be configured to overlap the second In some embodiments the adjustments A1, A2 can be
band 204 , for example as depicted in FIG . 2B . In other carried out simultaneously, sequentially, or individually. For
embodiments , the first band 202 can be configured in a example , in some embodiments , the adjustment Al can be
mortise -tenon relationship with the second band 204 , such 55 carried out independent of the adjustment A2 . In other
as depicted in FIG . 2C . In still further embodiments, the first words, the length of the first band 202 can be increased or
band 202 can be configured to insert within an aperture of decreased independent of any change in the length of the
the second band 204 such that the first band 202 and the second band 204 . In other embodiments, the adjustment A1
second band 204 interlace , such as depicted in FIG . 2D . In can be carried out to a greater degree than the adjustment A2 .
other embodiments , other relationships between the first 60 In other words, the length of the first band 202 can be
band 202 and the second band 204 can be established increased or decreased by a greater amount than the any
The initial attachment between the first band 202 and the increase or decrease in the length of the second band 204 .
second band 204 (regardless whether the interaction is In some embodiments, the width of the first band 202 can
overlapping, interlacing, mortise -tenon or otherwise ) is be increased or decreased in order to adjust the fit of the
referred to herein as a " coarse ” fit . A coarse fit may not 65 wearable electronic device 200 . In these embodiments , the
provide users of the wearable electronic device 200 with a wider the first band 202, the tighter the fit of the wearable
sufficiently many increments to find an optimally comfort electronic device 200 may be. Similarly, the thinner the first
US 9 ,781,984 B2
20
band 202 , the looser the fit of the wearable electronic device is with respect to the user 's wrist, the looser the fit of the
200 may be. Width adjustments to the first band 202 are wearable electronic device 200 may be. Similarly, the lower
shown in FIG . 2A with a bi-directional arrow labeled as the housing of the wearable electronic device 200 is with
adjustment A3. respect to the user' s wrist, the tighter the fit of the wearable
In some embodiments, the width of the second band 2045 electronic device 200 may be . Height adjustments to the
can be increased or decreased in order to adjust the fit of the housing of the wearable electronic device 200 are shown in
wearable electronic device 200 . In these embodiments , the FIG . 2B with a bi- directional arrow labeled as adjustment
wider the second band 204 , the tighter the fit of the wearable A5.
electronic device 200 may be . Similarly , the thinner the
second band 204, the looser the fit of the wearable electronic 10 firstFurthermore, in some embodiments, the thickness of the
band 202 can be increased or decreased in order to
device 200 may be. For illustrative simplicity , width adjust adjust the fit of the wearable electronic device 200 . In these
ments to the second band 204 are not illustrated in FIG . 2A . embodiments , the thicker the first band 202 , the shorter the
In some embodiments width adjustments to the first band
202 and the second band 204 can be carried out simultane first band 202 , and thus the tighter the fit of the wearable
electronic device 200 may be. Similarly, the thinner the first
ously , sequentially , or individually . For example, in some 15 band
embodiments, the adjustment A3 can be carried out inde 202 , the looser the fit of thewearable electronic device
pendent of any width adjustment to the second band 204 . In 200 may be . Width adjustments to the first band 202 are
other embodiments, the adjustment A3 can be carried out to shown in FIG . 2B with a bi- directional arrow labeled as
a greater degree any width adjustment to the second band adjustment A6 .
204 . 20 Furthermore , in some embodiments , the thickness of the
In some embodiments, the relationship between the hous - second band 204 can be increased or decreased in order to
ing of the wearable electronic device 200 and the first band adjust the fit of the wearable electronic device 200 . In these
202 and the second band 204 can be retracted or extended in embodiments , the thicker the second band 204 , the shorter
order to adjust the fit of the wearable electronic device 200 . the second band 204 , and thus the tighter the fit of the
In these embodiments , themore the first band 202 and/ or the 25 wearable electronic device 200 may be . Similarly, the thin
second band 204 are retracted into the housing of the ner the second band 204 , the looser the fit of the wearable
wearable electronic device, the tighter the fit of the wearable electronic device 200 may be. For illustrative simplicity ,
electronic device 200 may be. Similarly , the more the first thickness adjustments to the second band 204 are not
band 202 and /or the second band 204 are extended from the illustrated in FIG . 2B .
housing of the wearable electronic device 200 , the looser the 30 As with other adjustments described herein , in some
fit of the wearable electronic device 200 may be . Adjust - embodiments , thickness adjustments to the first band 202
ments to the coupling between first band 202 , the second and the second band 204 can be carried out simultaneously ,
band 204 and the housing of the wearable electronic device sequentially , or individually . For example , in some embodi
are shown in FIG . 2A with a bi-directional arrow labeled as ments , the adjustment A6 can be carried out independent of
adjustment A4. 35 any thickness adjustment to the second band 204 . In other
FIG . 2B depicts a side plan view of an example wearable embodiments , the adjustment A6 can be carried out to a
electronic device , such as shown in FIG . 2A , with an greater degree any thickness adjustment to the second band
overlapping two - piece band system for attaching to a user. 204 .
As with the embodiment depicted in FIG . 2A , the wearable In addition , in some embodiments , the relative alignment
electronic device 200 can include a tensioner to provide 40 of the first band 202 and the second band 204 can be changed
dynamic adjustment of the fit of the wearable electronic in order to adjust the fit of the wearable electronic device
device 200. The wearable electronic device 200 can include 200 . For example, the farther along the second band 204 the
a housing at that can be permanently or removably attached first band 202 is disposed , the tighter the fit of the wearable
to a band that is illustrated as a two-part band system electronic device 200 may be. Relative alignment adjust
including a first band 202 and a second band 204 . 45 ments are shown in FIG . 2C with a bi- directional arrow
As illustrated , the first band 202 and the second band 204 labeled as adjustment A7.
can be overlapped in order to form a closed loop around a FIG . 2C depicts a side plan view of an example wearable
user ' s wrist. In some examples, the first band 202 and the electronic device with a mortise -tenon band system for
second band 204 can be affixed together with a traditional or attaching to a user. As with the embodiment depicted in FIG .
conventional attachment mechanism . For example , in some 50 2A , the wearable electronic device 200 can include a ten
embodiments, a buckling clasp can be used . In other sioner to provide dynamic adjustment of the fit of the
examples a pin and eyelet attachment mechanism can be wearable electronic device 200 . The wearable electronic
used . device 200 can include a housing at that can be permanently
Accordingly, and as with other embodiments described or removably attached to a band that is illustrated as a
herein , the coarse fit of a wearable electronic device , such as 55 two -part band system including a first band 202 and a second
the wearable electronic device 200 depicted in FIG . 2B can band 204 . As illustrated , the first band 202 can be inserted
be adjusted by actuating a tensioner to adjust (or cause to be into a cavity opened within the second band 204 in order to
adjusted) one or more dimensions of the first band 202, the form a coarse fit of closed loop around a user 's wrist.
second band 204 , the housing of the wearable electronic Accordingly, and as with other embodiments described
device 200, or the coupling between them . For example , as 60 herein , the coarse fit of a wearable electronic device , such as
described above, a tensioner may be configured to carry out the wearable electronic device 200 depicted in FIG . 2C can
the adjustments A1, A2 , A3 and /or A4 . be adjusted by actuating a tensioner to adjust or cause to be
In addition , in some embodiments , the height of the adjusted ) one or more dimensions of the first band 202 , the
wearable electronic device 200 can be increased or second band 204 , the housing of the wearable electronic
decreased in order to adjust the fit of the wearable electronic 65 device 200 , or the coupling between them . For example, as
device 200 when attached to a user. In these embodiments, described above , a tensioner may be configured to carry out
the higher the housing of the wearable electronic device 200 the adjustments A1, A2, A3 , A4 , A5 , A6 , and/ or A7 .
US 9, 781, 984 B2
21
FIG . 2D depicts a side plan view of an example wearable ments, the process of inserting the band -insertable end and
electronic device with an interlacing band system for attach tightening the first band 202 and the second band 204smay
ing to a user. As with the embodiment depicted in FIG . 2A , be comfortably and conveniently accomplished with the
the wearable electronic device 200 can include a tensioner to user' s free hand .
provide dynamic adjustment of the fit of the wearable 5 To detach the portable electronic device from the wrist,
electronic device 200 . The wearable electronic device 200 the pin can be withdrawn from the eyelet and the insertable
can include a housing at that can be permanently or remov - end of the first band 202 can be withdrawn from the
ably attached to a band that is illustrated as a two -part band concealment aperture . The process of removing the insert
system including a first band 202 and a second band 204 . As able end and loosening the first band 202 and the second
illustrated , the first band 202 can be inserted into an aperture 10 band 204 may be comfortably and conveniently accom
of the second band 204 in order to form a coarse fit of closed plished with the user ' s free hand .
loop around a user ' s wrist. As with other embodiments described herein , the coarse
In many examples , the first band 202 can include one or fit of a wearable electronic device , such as the wearable
more sizing eyelets into which a pin associated with the electronic device 200 depicted in FIG . 2D can be adjusted by
second band 204 can be inserted . In many examples, more 15 actuating a tensioner to adjust (or cause to be adjusted ) one
than one eyelet can be formed within the first band 202 , or more dimensions of the first band 202 , the second band
distributed at uniform or semi-uniform intervals across the 204 , the housing of the wearable electronic device 200 , or
length of the band. In some examples , the eyelets may be the coupling between them . For example, as described
distributed in a logarithmic or exponential distribution , or above , a tensioner may be configured to carry out the
any other suitable distribution . In these embodiments, the 20 adjustments A1, A2, A3, A4 , A5 , A6 and /or A7.
distribution of the eyelets may be based , at least in part, on One can appreciate that although many embodiments are
the average wrist size of the expected user. Some embodi- described herein with reference to two -part bands for attach
ments may not follow any mathematical distribution . ing wearable electronic devices to users , that other bands are
As illustrated , the second band 204 can include a con - contemplated . For example, in some embodiments , a single
cealment aperture (not visible ) having a greater width than 25 part band may be used . In other cases, a segmented band can
the first band 202 . In some embodiments, the concealment be used .
aperture may be formed to have a width approximately equal Similarly, one may appreciate that the adjustments A1,
to the width of the first band 202 . The concealment aperture A2 , A3, A4 , A5 , A6 and /or A7 (and other adjustments ) may
may be configured to receive the first band 202 through it, apply equally or equivalently to other band and /or wearable
thereby concealing a portion of the first band 202 between 30 electronic device embodiments described herein . More gen
the second band 204 and the user ' s wrist . In many embodi- erally , it should be appreciated that the various examples and
ments, the concealment aperture is formed to have the shape embodiments presented herein can apply equally or equiva
of a rounded rectangle ( e . g ., “ pill ” shaped or “ lozenge” lently to many band and / or wearable device embodiments
shaped ), although this shape is not required . and no single embodiment, or adjustments thereto by a
In many examples, the second band 204 can also include 35 tensioner or the wearable electronic device itself, should be
a pin (not illustrated ) configured to be inserted in a selected considered as limited to that single embodiment .
eyelet of the first band 202 . Upon insertion into the eyelet, FIG . 3A depicts a simplified block diagram of a wearable
the pin can resist unintended separation of the first band 202 electronic device 300 configured to be coupled to a user by
and the second band 204 . In many cases, the pin may be joining a first band 302 with a second band 304 about the
formed from metal, ceramic , or plastic and / or may include 40 user ' s wrist . The wearable electronic device 300 can one or
at least one surface finish configured to increase friction more processing devices 306 , memory 308 , one or more
between the pin and the first band 202. input/ output (1/ 0 ) devices or sensors 310 ( e . g ., biometric
In many examples, the second band 204 can also incor sensors, environmental sensors, etc .), one or more displays
porate a recessed guide bed (not visible ) to receive and guide 312 , one or more power source (s ) ( not shown ), one or more
the inserted length of first band 202. In many cases , the 45 physical and /or rotary input devices 314 , one or more touch
guide bed can be longitudinally centered along the bottom and / or force input device (s ) 316 , one or more acoustic input
surface of the second band 204 . For these embodiments , the and /or output devices 318 , one or more haptic output
combined thickness ofthe overlapping portions of the sizing device (s ) 320 , one or more a network communication inter
and second band 204 may be reduced . In addition , the guide face ( s ) 322 , and one or more tensioner 324 . Some embodi
bed may at least partially retain the inserted length of the 50 ments can also include additional components.
first band 202 in place behind the second band 204 . The display 312 may provide an image or video output for
To attach the portable electronic device around a user 's the wearable electronic device 300 . The display 312 may
wrist, the end of the first band 202 can be fed around the also provide an input surface for one or more input devices
wrist and through the concealment aperture of the second such as a touch sensing device 316 , force sensing device ,
band 204 so that the two bands interlace to form a closed 55 temperature sensing device , and / or a fingerprint sensor. The
loop . In many examples , the material selected for each band display 312 may be any size suitable for inclusion at least
may have a low coefficient of friction such that the insertable partially within the housing of the wearable electronic
end of the first band 202 can slide into the concealment device 300 and may be positioned substantially anywhere on
aperture and against or past the user 's skin without substan - the wearable electronic device 300 . In some embodiments,
tial resistance that might cause discomfort to the user. After 60 the display 312 can be protected by a cover glass formed
insertion of the band -insertable end through the concealment from a scratch -resistant material ( e. g., sapphire, zirconia ,
aperture , the user can apply pressure to the first band 202 to glass , and so on ) that may form a substantially continuous
push the first band 202 further along the guide bed of the external surface with the housing of the wearable electronic
second band 204 in order to adjust the tightness against the device 300 .
limb . When an acceptable tightness is reached , the user can 65 The processing device(s ) 306 can control or coordinate
push the pin of the second band 204 through the most some or all of the operations of the wearable electronic
proximate eyelet of the first band 202 . In many embodi- device 300 . The processing device 306 can communicate ,
US 9, 781, 984 B2
23 24
either directly or indirectly with substantially all of the tory feedback , tactile sensations , and the like. For example ,
components of the wearable electronic device 300. For in one embodiment, the haptic output device 320 may be
example , a system bus or signal line or other communication implemented as a linear actuator configured to provide a
mechanisms can provide communication between the pro punctuated haptic feedback , such as a tap or a knock .
cessing device 306 , the memory 308 , the I/ O device ( s ) 310 , 5 As noted above, the wearable electronic device 300 can
the power source ( s ), the network communication interface include a tensioner 324 . In many cases , a tensioner can be an
322 , and /or the haptic output device 320 . analog , digital, or integrated circuit configured to apply an
The one or more processing devices 306 can be imple electrical signal to cause tension ( either directly or indi
mented as any electronic device capable of processing , rectly ) to be applied to , or relieved form , the first band 302
receiving, or transmitting data or instructions. For example , 10 and the second band 304 . In other cases, a tensioner can be
the processing device ( s ) 306 can each be a microprocessor , a physical apparatus such as a motor, electromagnetic coil,
a central processing unit (CPU ), an application-specific or solenoid that can be actuated to cause tension (either
integrated circuit ( ASIC ) , a digital signal processor (DSP ) , directly or indirectly ) to be applied to , or relieved form , the
or combinations of such devices . As described herein , the first band 302 and/ or the second band 304 .
term " processing device ” is meant to encompass a single 15 In response to a signal from the wearable electronic
processor or processing unit, multiple processors , multiple device , the tensioner can cause the first band 302 or the
processing units , or other suitably configured computing second band 304 to tighten and or loosen . In other embodi
element or elements . ments, in response to a signal from the wearable electronic
Thememory 308 can store electronic data that can be useddevice 300 , the tensioner can cause the housing of the
by the wearable electronic device 300 . For example , a 20 wearable electronic device 300 to shift its position relative
memory can store electrical data or content such as, for to the first band 302 or the second band 304 .
example, audio and video files , documents and applications , As noted above , the signal to change the fit of the
device settings and user preferences, timing and control wearable electronic device 300 can be received from any
signals or data for the haptic output device 320 , data number of sources . For example , in certain embodiments ,
structures or databases, and so on . The memory 308 can be 25 the signal can be received from secondary electronic device
configured as any type of memory . By way of example only, through the network communication interface 322 . In other
the memory can be implemented as random access memory, embodiments , the signal can be received as direct user input.
read -only memory , Flash memory , removable memory, or For example , a user can provide input to the touch sensing
other types of storage elements, or combinations of such device 316 of the wearable electronic device 300 to indicate
devices. 30 to the wearable electronic device 300 and /or the tensioner
The one or more I/ O device (s ) 310 can transmit and /or 324 the user 's desire for the fit of the device to change , either
receive data to and from a user or another electronic device with increased tightness or decreased tightness . For
The I/ O device ( s ) 310 can include a touch sensing input example , FIG . 3B depicts in perspective view a user pro
surface such as one or more buttons, one or more micro - viding an indication to the wearable electronic device 300 ,
phones or speakers , and /or one or more ports such as a 35 via a display 312 , to decrease the tightness of the band .
microphone port. FIG . 4A depicts a top plan view of an example wearable
The wearable electronic device 300 may also include one electronic device with a two- piece band system configured
or more sensors 310 positioned substantially anywhere on to contract along its length in response to an electrical signal
the wearable electronic device 300 . The sensor or sensors from a tensioner. In many cases the tensioner can be coupled
310 may be configured to sense substantially any type of 40 to one or more actuators that, in response to a signal from the
characteristic such as, but not limited to , images, pressure , tensioner, adjust the fit of the wearable electronic device .
light, touch , force , temperature, position, motion , and so on . Thewearable electronic device 400 can include a housing
For example , the sensor( s ) 310 may be an image sensor, a at that can be permanently or removably attached to a band
temperature sensor, a light or optical sensor, an atmospheric that is illustrated as a two-part band system including a first
pressure sensor, a humidity sensor, a magnet, a gyroscope , 45 band 402 and a second band 404 . In the illustrated embodi
an accelerometer, and so on . In other examples , the wearable ment, a first actuator 406 can be disposed within the first
electronic device 300 may include one or more health band 402 and a second actuator 408 can be disposed within
sensors . In some examples, the health sensors can be dis - a second band 404 . Both the first actuator 406 and the second
posed on a bottom surface of the housing of the wearable actuator 408 can be in electrical communication with a
electronic device 300 . 50 tensioner (not visible ), which may be disposed within the
The power source can be implemented with any device housing of the wearable electronic device 400 .
capable of providing energy to the wearable electronic In the illustrated example , the first actuator 406 and the
device 300 . For example , the power source can be one or second actuator 408 can be formed in a longitudinal serpen
more batteries or rechargeable batteries, or a connection tine pattern and can be configured to contract or expand in
cable that connects the remote control device to another 55 response to an electrical signal from the tensioner. For
power source such as a wall outlet. In other examples, example , in some embodiments, the first actuator 406 and
wireless power can be used . the second actuator 408 can be formed from a shapememory
The network communication interface 322 can facilitate wire such as Nitinol. In these embodiments, the tensioner
transmission of data to or from other electronic devices can increase a current (or voltage ) applied to the Nitinol in
across standardized or proprietary protocols . For example, a 60 response to an instruction to increase the tightness of the
network communication interface can transmit electronic band or can decrease a current ( or voltage ) applied to the
signals via a wireless and /or wired network connection . Nitinol in response to an instruction to decrease the tightness
Examples of wireless and wired network connections of the band . In many cases , an increase in current applied to
include, but are not limited to , cellular, Wi- Fi, Bluetooth ,
the Nitinol can cause the temperature of the Nitinol to
infrared, and Ethernet. 65 increase , which can cause the Nitinol to contract.
The haptic output device 320 can be implemented as any In response to the increase or decrease in the length of the
suitable device configured to provide force feedback , vibra - longitudinal and serpentine Nitinol, the band can experience
US 9, 781, 984 B2
25 26
an increase or decrease in length which , in turn , can cause In still further examples, one or both of the first actuator
an increase or decrease the tightness of the fit of the band , 406 and the second actuator 408 can be disposed or formed
for example as illustrated in FIG . 4B . In this manner, the first along an axis that is not parallel to the length of the first band
actuator 406 and the second actuator 408 can achieve the 402 or the second band 404 . For example , as illustrated in
adjustment A1 and/ or the adjustment A2 discussed with 5 FIG . 4C , the second actuator 408 can be disposed parallel to
respect to FIGS . 2A -2D . the width of the second band 404 . In this example , contrac
In other embodiments, the first actuator 406 and the tion of the second actuator 408 can achieve an adjustment
second actuator 408 can be formed from another shape - A3 . In other words , contraction of the second actuator 408
memory wire, such as a copper -based shape memory alloy. can cause the width of the second band 404 to contract .
In other examples , another material can be used such as 10 As may be appreciated , contraction of the width of the
electroactive polymer ( either dielectric or ionic ). In response second band 404 can cause the second band 404 to lengthen .
to an electrical signal from the tensioner, electroactive In other words, by achieving the adjustmentA3, the adjust
polymer can contract and / or expand to achieve the adjust m ent A2 can also be achieved .
ments A1 and A2 . Similarly , and as depicted in the side plan view of FIG .
Although illustrated with a serpentine pattern , in other 15 4D , some embodiments can dispose either or both the first
embodiments , other patterns can be used . For example , in actuator 406 and the second actuator 408 as a serpentine
other cases , a series of parallel actuators can be included pattern through the thickness of the first band 402 or the
within either or both the bands . In other examples, one or second band 404 . For example, as illustrated , the first
both of the actuators can be disposed along the entire length actuator 406 can be disposed through the thickness of the
of one or both of the bands. 20 first band 402 . As may be appreciated , contraction of the
In other cases, the first actuator 406 and the second thickness of the first band 402 can cause the first band 402
actuator 408 can be disposed only through a portion of the to lengthen . In other words ,by achieving the adjustmentA6 ,
first band 402 and the second band 404 . For example , FIG . the adjustment Al can also be achieved .
4C depicts the first actuator 406 as disposed only along a FIG . 5A depicts a top plan view of an example wearable
portion of the length of the first band 402 . Although illus- 25 electronic device with a two -piece band system configured
trated to abut the housing of the wearable electronic device to retract into the body of the wearable electronic device in
400 , one can appreciate that the first actuator 406 can be response to an electrical signal from a tensioner. In many
positioned anywhere along the length of the first band 402 . cases the tensioner can be coupled to one or more actuators
For example , in some embodiments , the first actuator 406 that, in response to a signal from the tensioner, adjust the fit
can be disposed in a middle portion of the first band 402 . In 30 of the wearable electronic device .
other embodiments , the first actuator 406 can be disposed in The wearable electronic device 500 can include a housing
an end portion of the first band 402 . In still further embodi- at that can be permanently or removably attached to a band
ments , more than one actuator can be disposed within the that is illustrated as a two -part band system including a first
first band 402 . For example, one actuator can be placed band 502 and a second band 504 . In the illustrated embodi
within an end portion of the first band 402 and a second 35 ment, a first actuator 506 can be partially disposed within the
actuator can be positioned to abut the housing of the first band 502 and partially disposed within the housing of
wearable electronic device 400 . the wearable electronic device. Similarly , a second actuator
In some embodiments, the first actuator 406 and the 508 can be partially disposed within a second band 504 and
second actuator 408 can be insert molded into the first band partially within the housing of the wearable electronic
402 and the second band 404 respectively . In some cases, the 40 device . Both the first actuator 506 and the second actuator
first actuator 406 and the second actuator 408 can be insert 508 can be in electrical communication with a tensioner (not
molded closer to a bottom surface of the first band 402 and visible ), which may be disposed within the housing of the
the second band 404 . In other cases , the first actuator 406 wearable electronic device 500 .
and the second actuator 408 can be insert molded closer to In the illustrated example, the first actuator 506 and the
a top surface of the first band 402 and the second band 404 . 45 second actuator 508 can be formed in a longitudinally
In still further examples , the first actuator 406 and the oriented serpentine pattern and can be configured to contract
second actuator 408 can be insert molded into the center of or expand in response to an electrical signal from the
the first band 402 and the second band 404 . tensioner . For example , as with the embodiment depicted in
In other cases, the first actuator 406 and the second FIGS. 4A - 4D , the first actuator 506 and the second actuator
actuator 408 can be inserted into the first band 402 and the 50 508 can be formed from a shape memory wire such as
second band 404 after the molding of the first band 402 and Nitinol.
the second band 404 . For example , after molding, an inci. In response to the increase or decrease in the length of the
sion path can be cut into the first band 402 and the second longitudinal and serpentine Nitinol, the band can experience
band 404 that is shaped to fit the shape of the first actuator an increase or decrease the tension with which the first band
406 and the second actuator 408 . In a subsequent manufac - 55 502 and the second band 504 are coupled to the housing of
turing step , the first actuator 406 and the second actuator 408 the wearable electronic device 500 , which , in turn , can cause
can be inserted into the incision . an increase or decrease the tightness of the fit of the band .
In other examples, the first actuator 406 and the second In thismanner, the first actuator 506 and the second actuator
actuator 408 can be formed with selective placement of 508 can achieve the adjustment A4 .
dopants during the formation of the first band 402 and the 60 In another embodiment, the tensioner can be connected to
second band 404 . a coupling that joins the first band 502 and the second band
In other examples, the first actuator 406 and the second 504 at one or more points to the housing of the wearable
actuator 408 can be disposed on an exterior surface of the electronic device 500 . In some examples , such as that
first band 402 and the second band 404 . For example , in depicted in FIG . 5B , the coupling can be a first lug 510 and
certain embodiments , the first actuator 406 and the second 65 a second lug 512 , associated with the first band 502 and the
actuator 408 can be disposed around the perimeter of the first second band 504 respectively , that each extend from the
band 402 and the second band 404 . housing of the wearable electronic device 500 . In such an
US 9, 781, 984 B2
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embodiment, the tensioner can withdraw the first lug 510 attachment. In other examples, each link can be coupled to
and a second lug 512 into the housing of the wearable adjacent links via an elasticated band .
electronic device 500 by applying an electrical signal to the In the illustrated embodiment, a first actuator 606 can be
first actuator 506 and the second actuator 508 ( shown in coupled to the first band 602 . Similarly , a second actuator
FIG . 5A ). 5 608 coupled to the second band 604 . Both the first actuator
In other examples, the first band 502 and the second band 606 and the second actuator 608 can be in electrical com
504 can be configured to slide within (and be retained by ) munication with a tensioner (not visible ), which may be
two or more channels within external sidewalls of the disposed within the housing of the wearable electronic
device 600.
housing. In such an embodiment, such as that depicted in 10 In the illustrated example , the first actuator 606 and the
FIG . 5C , the tensioner can withdraw first channel 514 and a second actuator 608 can be configured contract or expand
second channel 516 , associated with the first band 502 and
the second band 504 respectively , further into the housing of the first and/ or second band in response to an electrical
signal from the tensioner. For example , upon receiving a
the wearable electronic device 500 by applying an electrical signal to contract (e .g ., increase the tightness of the fit of the
signal to the first actuator 506 and
and the
the second
second actuator
actuator 30d
508 .. 15 wearable electronic device 600, the links of each of the first
In another case , the tensioner can withdraw the portions of band 602 and the second band 604 can be collapsed together,
the first band 502 and the second band 504 that are inserted for example as shown in FIG . 6B
into the channels further into the housing of the wearable In one embodiment, the first actuator 606 can be formed
electronic device 500 by applying an electrical signal to the as a series of electromagnetic coils disposed within each link
first actuator 506 and the second actuator 508 . 20 of the first band 602 and the second band 604 . In this
In other examples, the first band 502 and the second band example, in response to an instruction to tighten the fit of the
504 can be looped through and aperture in the housing. In band, the tensioner can apply a current to each of the
such an embodiment, the tensioner can withdraw the aper - electromagnetic coils so that the band collapses into the
ture further into the housing of the wearable electronic configuration shown in FIG . 6B .
device 500 by applying an electrical signal to the first 25 In another embodiment, as with the embodiment depicted
actuator 506 and the second actuator 508 . In other cases , the in FIGS . 4A -4D , the first actuator 606 and the second
first band 502 and the second band 504 can be riveted , actuator 608 can be formed from a shape memory wire such
screwed , or otherwise attached to the housing via one or as Nitinol. The Nitinol wire can be fed through each of the
more mechanical fasteners . In such an embodiment, the links of each of the first band 602 and the second band 604 .
tensioner can withdraw the one or more mechanical fasten - 30 In some examples , the Nitinol can be fed through more than
ers further into the housing of the wearable electronic deviceonce, for example in a serpentine pattern . In this example, in
500 by applying an electrical signal to the first actuator 506response to an instruction to tighten the fit of the band, the
and the second actuator 508 . tensioner can apply a current to the Nitinol wire so that the
In other examples , the first band 502 and the second band band collapses into the configuration shown in FIG . 6B .
504 can be permanently coupled to the housing , such as 35 In response to the increase or decrease in the length of the
depicted in FIG . 5D . For example , in some cases, the first first band 602 and the second band 604 , tightness of the fit
band 502 and the second band 504 may be formed as an of the wearable electronic device can respectively increase
integral portion of the housing. In other cases, the first band or decrease . In this manner, the first actuator 606 and the
502 and the second band 504 can be rigidly adhered to the second actuator 608 can achieve the adjustment A1 and the
housing via a first adhesive 520 and a second adhesive 522 , 40 adjustment A2.
associated with the first band 502 and the second band 504 FIG . 7A depicts a top plan view of an example wearable
respectively . In still further embodiments , the first band 502 electronic device with a woven band system configured to
and the second band 504 can be welded , soldered , or contract along its length and / or width in response to an
chemically bonded to the housing . In other embodiments , electrical signal from a tensioner. In many cases the ten
additional permanent couplings between the first band 502 45 sioner can be coupled to one or more actuators that, in
and the second band 504 and the housing of the wearable response to a signal from the tensioner, adjust the fit of the
electronic device 500 are possible . In these embodiments, wearable electronic device .
the tensioner can apply a withdrawing force to the first band The wearable electronic device 700 can include a housing
502 and the second band 504 such that the first band 502 and at that can be permanently or removably attached to a band
the second band 504 contract at their interface with the 50 that is illustrated as a two -part band system including a first
housing. band 702 and a second band 704 . In the illustrated embodi
FIG . 6A depicts a top plan view of an example wearable ment, the first band 702 and a second band 704 can each be
electronic device with a segmented band system configured formed from a woven material. In many examples , a woven
to contract along its length in response to an electrical signal material can be made from a material that can be threaded ,
from a tensioner. In many cases the tensioner can be coupled 55 such as, but not limited to , plastic , rubber , nylon , cotton , or
to one or more actuators that, in response to a signal from the other fibrous , organic, polymeric , or synthetic materials. In
tensioner, adjust the fit of the wearable electronic device. many cases, a woven material can be formed by drawing a
The wearable electronic device 600 can include a housing weft thread 708 through substantially parallel warp threads
at that can be permanently or removably attached to a band 710 in an patterned manner ( e. g ., alternating, alternating
that is illustrated as a two -part band system including a first 60 every other warp , alternating every third warp , etc . ), for
band 602 and a second band 604 . In the illustrated embodi example as shown in the detail view of FIG . 7B . Nominally ,
ment, the first band 602 and a second band 604 can each be one weft thread can be separated from adjacent weft threads
formed as a group of metallic links. In other embodiments by a distance 712 that defines the tightness of the woven
other materials can be used . For example, in some embodi- material.
ments , glass, crystal, or rigid plastic can be used . In other 65 In the illustrated embodiment, a first actuator can be
examples, compliantmaterials can be used. In many cases, coupled to the first band 702. Similarly, a second actuator
each link can be coupled to adjacent links via a hinging coupled to the second band 704 . Both the first actuator 706
US 9, 781, 984 B2
29 30
and the second actuator can be in electrical communication FIG . 8C , coil 808d can be activated so as to attract the
with a tensioner ( not visible ), which may be disposed within permanent magnet of the first actuator 806 .
the housing of the wearable electronic device 700 . In this manner , in response to the increase or decrease in
In the illustrated example , the first actuator and the second the length of the first band 802 and the second band 804 ,
actuator can be configured contract or expand the first and/ or 5 tightness of the fit of the wearable electronic device can
second band in response to an electrical signal from the respectively increase or decrease. In this manner, the first
tensioner. actuator 806 and the second actuator 808 can achieve the
As with the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 4A -4D , the adjustment A7.
first actuator 706 and the second actuator can be formed FIG . 9 depicts a side plan view of an example wearable
from a shape memory wire such as Nitinol. In some cases the 10 electronic device with a bracelet-style band system config
Nitinol wire can be threaded into the woven material form ured to rotate the housing of the wearable electronic device
ing the first band 702 and the second band 704 . For example , toward or away from a user 's wrist in response to an
in certain embodiments, the Nitinol wire can be one ormore electrical signal from a tensioner. In many cases the ten
warps of the woven material. In another example, the Nitinol
wire can be one or more wefts of the woven material. In this 15 sioner can be coupled to one or more actuators that, in
example, in response to an instruction to tighten the fit of the response to a signal from the tensioner, adjust the fit of the
band , the tensioner can apply a current to the Nitinol wire so wearable electronic device .
that the band collapses into the configuration shown in FIG . The wearable electronic device 900 can include a housing
7C . In other embodiments , the first actuator and the second at that can be permanently or removably attached to a
actuator can be formed from another material, such as an 20 two- part band system including a rigid bracelet- style band
electroactive polymer. 902 . In the illustrated embodiment, the housing of the
In response to the increase or decrease in the length of the wearable electronic device 900 can be configured to rotate
first band 702 and the second band 704 , tightness of the fit about a pivot point to which the rigid bracelet-style band 902
of the wearable electronic device can respectively increase is coupled . For example , the wearable electronic device 900
or decrease . In this manner, the first actuator and the second 25 can include an actuator ( not shown) within the housing of
actuator can achieve the adjustment A1 and the adjustment the wearable electronic device 900 that can be electrically
A2. coupled to a tensioner (not shown ) also disposed within the
FIG . 8A depicts a top plan view of an example wearable housing of the electronic device . In some embodiments , the
electronic device with a two - part band system , each band actuator can be an electrical motor. In other examples , the
configured to slide relative to the other band in response to 30 actuator can be an electrical motor that , in other modes , is
an electrical signal from a tensioner. In many cases the used to provide haptic feedback to the user. For example , the
tensioner can be coupled to one or more actuators that, in actuator may be a vibration motor.
response to a signal from the tensioner, adjust the fit of the In response to a signal to increase the tightness of the fit ,
wearable electronic device. the tensioner can cause the actuator to rotate the rigid
The wearable electronic device 800 can include a housing 35 bracelet-style band 902 relative to the housing of the wear
at that can be permanently or removably attached to a band able electronic device 900 . By rotating the rigid bracelet
that is illustrated as a two -part band system including a first style band 902 toward the housing, the tightness of the fit can
band 802 and a second band 804 . In the illustrated embodi- increase . By rotating the rigid bracelet-style band 902 away
ment, a first actuator 806 can be partially disposed within the from the housing , the tightness of the fit can decrease .
first band 802 and partially disposed within the housing of 40 In this manner, in response to the increase or decrease
the wearable electronic device . Similarly, a second actuator relative positioning of the rigid bracelet- style band 902 and
808 can be partially disposed within a second band 804 and the housing of the wearable electronic device 900 , the
partially within the housing of the wearable electronic tightness of the fit of the wearable electronic device can
device . Both the first actuator 806 and the second actuator respectively increase or decrease . In this manner, the actua
808 can be in electrical communication with a tensioner (not 45 tor can achieve the adjustment A5 .
visible ), which may be disposed within the housing of the FIG . 10 depicts a side plan view of an example wearable
wearable electronic device 800 . electronic device with a loop -style band system configured
In the illustrated example , the first actuator 806 can be to tighten or loosen the loop in response to an electrical
formed as a permanent magnet . The permanent magnet can signal from a tensioner. In many cases the tensioner can be
be formed of any number of suitable magnetic materials . For 50 coupled to one or more actuators that, in response to a signal
example , in some embodiments , the first actuator 806 can be from the tensioner, adjust the fit of the wearable electronic
formed from rare earth metals . In other examples, the first device .
actuator 806 can be formed as a ceramic magnet . The wearable electronic device 1000 can include a hous
In the illustrated example , the second actuator 808 can be ing at that can be permanently or removably attached to a
formed as a series of electromagnetic coils , illustrated as the 55 two- part band system including a complaint loop - style band
coils 806a -806e. Upon overlapping the first band 802 with 1002 . In the illustrated embodiment, the housing of the
the second band 804, the tensioner can send an electrical wearable electronic device 1000 can be configured to insert
signal to one of the coils 806a -806e in order to attract the through about an aperture within the housing through which
permanent magnetic the first actuator 806 . For example , as the complaint loop - style band 1002 can be inserted , and
shown in FIG . 8B , the coil 808b is activated by the tensioner 60 folded back on itself. In some examples , the complaint
so as to attract the permanent magnet of the first actuator loop -style band 1002 can be formed from a metallic mesh .
806 . In some of these examples , the metallic mesh can be formed
In response to a signal to tighten the fit of the band , the from a ferromagnetic material such as steel. In these
tensioner can apply an electrical signal to one or more examples, the complaint loop - style band 1002 can also
adjacent of the coils adjacent to the coil 808b , or whichever 65 include a permanentmagnet, such as a bar magnet along the
coil 808a - e was activated upon overlapping the first band free end of the complaint loop -style band 1002 . In this
802 with the second band 804 . For example, as shown in manner, after the complaint loop -style band 1002 is inserted
US 9, 781, 984 B2
31 32
and folded back upon itself , the permanent magnet can decrease in volume, which , in turn , increases or decreases
attract the complaint loop -style band 1002 itself in order to the tightness of the band , for example as depicted in FIG .
hold its position. 11B .
In some embodiments, the wearable electronic device In response to the increase or decrease in the length of the
1000 can include an actuator (not shown) at least partially 5 first band 1102 and the second band 1104 , tightness of the fit
within the housing of the wearable electronic device 1000 of the wearable electronic device can respectively increase
that can be electrically coupled to a tensioner ( not shown) or decrease . In this manner, the first actuator and the second
also disposed within the housing of the electronic device . In actuator can achieve the adjustment Al and the adjustment
some embodiments, the actuator can be an electrical motor A2 .
that includes a gear or high - friction portion that is config - 10 FIG . 12A depicts a side plan view of an example wearable
ured and oriented to feed the complaint loop - style band 1002 electronic device with another bladder- style band system
through the aperture in the housing in response to a signal configured to increase or decrease pressure within one or
from the tensioner. In some examples, the actuator can be an more bladders in response to an electrical signal from a
electrical motor that, in other modes, is used to provide 15 tensioner. In many cases the tensioner can be coupled to one
haptic feedback to the user . For example , the actuator may o r more actuators that, in response to a signal from the
be a vibration motor or a linear actuator. tensioner, adjust the fit of the wearable electronic device .
In response to a signal to increase the tightness of the fit, The wearable electronic device 1200 can include a hous
the tensioner can cause the actuator to feed the complaint ing at that can be permanently or removably attached to a
loop-style band 1002 through the aperture in the housing of 20 band that is illustrated as a two -part band system including
the wearable electronic device 1000 . By feeding the com - a first band 1202 and a second band 1204 . In the illustrated
plaint loop - style band 1002 through the aperture in the embodiment, the first band 1202 and a second band 1204 can
housing, the tightness of the fit can be increased or each be formed with a first bladder 1206 and a second
decreased , depending upon the direction of the feed . bladder 1208 , respectively , that each are in communication
In this manner, in response to the increase or decrease 25 with an actuator such as a pump that is disposed within the
relative positioning of the complaint loop -style band 1002 housing of the wearable electronic device 1200 .
and the housing of the wearable electronic device 1000 , the In the illustrated embodiment, a first actuator can be
tightness of the fit of the wearable electronic device can associated with the first band 1202. Similarly, a second
respectively increase or decrease . In this manner, the actua 30 actuator can be associated with the second band 1204 . Both
the first actuator and the second actuator can be in electrical
tor can achieve the adjustment A5 . communication with a tensioner ( not visible ), which may be
FIG . 11A depicts a side plan view ofan example wearable disposed within the housing of the wearable electronic
electronic device with a bladder-style band system config device 1200 .
ured to increase or decrease pressure within one or more The tensioner may be configured to control the pressure
bladders in response to an electrical signal from a tensioner . 35 applied by the actuators
In many cases the tensioner can be coupled to one or more first bladder 1206 and atosecond
oner. a fluid in communication with the
actuators that, in response to a signal from the tensioner, embodiment depicted in FIGS. bladder 1208 . As with the
11A - 11B , the fluid can be
adjust the fit of the wearable electronic device . any suitable fluid . In response to a request to increase or
The wearable electronic device 1100 can include a hous - decrease the tightness of the fit of the band of the wearable
ing at that can be permanently or removably attached to a 40 electronic device 1200 , the tensioner can cause the actuators
band that is illustrated as a two -part band system including to increase or decrease the pressure of the first bladder 1206
a first band 1102 and a second band 1104. In the illustrated and a second bladder 1208 . In response to the increase or
embodiment, the first band 1102 and a second band 1104 can decrease in pressure, the first bladder 1206 and a second
each be formed with one or more bladders that are in bladder 1208 can experience an increase or decrease in
communication with an actuator such as a pump that is 45 volume, which , in turn , increases or decreases the tightness
disposed within the housing of the wearable electronic of the band, for example as depicted in FIG . 12B .
device 1100 . In response to the increase or decrease in the length of the
In the illustrated embodiment, a first actuator can be first band 1202 and the second band 1204, tightness of the
associated with the first band 1102 . Similarly , a second fit of the wearable electronic device can respectively
actuator can be associated with the second band 1104 . Both 50 increase or decrease. In this manner, the first actuator and the
the first actuator and the second actuator can be in electrical second actuator can achieve the adjustment A1 and the
communication with a tensioner (not visible ), which may be adjustment A2.
disposed within the housing of the wearable electronic FIG . 13A depicts a side plan view of an example wearable
device 1100 . electronic device with an extendable housing portion con
The tensioner may be configured to control the pressure 55 figured to extend toward or retract from a user ' s skin in
applied by the actuators to a fluid in communication with the response to an electrical signal from a tensioner. In many
bladders . In some cases the fluid can be a gas or a liquid . For cases the tensioner can be coupled to one or more actuators
example , in some embodiments , air can be used as the fluid that, in response to a signal from the tensioner , adjust the fit
in communication with the bladder. In other cases, a liquid of the wearable electronic device .
with a low viscosity such as oil or water can be used as the 60 The wearable electronic device 1300 can include a hous
fluid in communication with the bladder. In these embodi- ing at that can be permanently or removably attached to a
ments, the tensioner can increase the pressure applied by the band that is illustrated as a two -part band system including
pump to the fluid in response to an instruction to increase the a first band 1302 and a second band 1304 . In the illustrated
tightness of the band or can decrease the pressure applied by embodiment, the housing of the wearable electronic device
the pump in response to an instruction to decrease the 65 1300 can include an extendable portion that can be config
tightness of the band. In response to the increase or decrease ured to extend from a bottom surface of the housing toward
in pressure , the bladder can experience an increase or the user 's wrist.
US 9, 781, 984 B2
33 34
In the illustrated embodiment, an actuator 1306 can be response to an electrical signal from a tensioner. In many
configured to extend the extendable portion . The actuator cases the tensioner can be coupled to one or more actuators
can be in electrical communication with a tensioner (notthat, in response to a signal from the tensioner , adjust the fit
visible ), which may be disposed within the housing of the
of the wearable electronic device .
wearable electronic device 1300 . 5 The wearable electronic device 1400 can include a hous
In this embodiment, the actuator 1306 can cause the ing at that can be permanently or removably attached to a
extendable portion of the housing of the wearable electronic band that is illustrated as a two -part band system including
device 1300 to extend toward or retract from the user 's skin . a first band 1402 and a second band 1404 . The first band
For example , in certain embodiments the extendable portion 1402 and the second band 1404 can be joined by a buckle
can extend toward a user 's wrist ( see , e . g ., FIG . 13B ) or, in 10 that can include an extendable portion that can be configured
other examples , the extendable portion can retract from the to extend from a top surface of the buckle toward the user ' s
user' s wrist. In such an embodiment, the tensioner can cause wrist.
the actuator 1306 to extend the extendable portion in In the illustrated embodiment, an actuator 1406 can be
response to an instruction to increase the tightness of the configured to extend the extendable portion . The actuator
band or the tensioner can cause the actuator 1306 to with - 15 can be in electrical communication , either wireless or wired ,
draw the extendable portion into the housing ofthewearable with a tensioner (not visible ), which may be disposed within
electronic device in response to an instruction to decrease the housing of the wearable electronic device 1400 .
the tightness of the band . In this embodiment, the actuator 1406 can cause the
In some embodiments , the extendable portion can be extendable portion of the buckle to extend toward or retract
formed from a material that contracts or expands in the 20 from the user 's skin . For example , in certain embodiments
presence of an electrical current (e . g ., piezoelectric materi- the extendable portion can extend toward a user 's wrist (see ,
als , memory wire , electroactive polymers, etc.). In other e .g ., FIG . 14B ) or, in other examples , the extendable portion
examples, the extendable portion can be formed as an can retract from the user' s wrist. In such an embodiment, the
electromagnetic coil positioned proximate to a permanent tensioner can cause the actuator 1406 to extend the extend
magnet (or other electromagnetic coil ) coupled to a bottom 25 able portion in response to an instruction to increase the
surface of the housing of the wearable electronic device tightness of the band or the tensioner can cause the actuator
1300 . An increase in the current applied to the electromag - 1406 to withdraw the extendable portion into the buckle in
netic coil can cause a corresponding increase in themagnetic response to an instruction to decrease the tightness of the
flux produced and , thus, an increase in the attractive or band.
repulsive force between the coil and the permanentmagnetic 30 As with the extendable portion described with respect to
material. the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 13A - 13B , the extendable
In still further examples, the extendable portion can be portion of the buckle can be implemented using piezoelec
extended with a motor geared to a worm gear that either tric materials, electroactive polymers, pumps and fluids ,
extends or retracts the extendable portion . In other electromagnetic attraction and repulsion , and so on .
examples , the extendable portion can be implemented as a 35 In this manner , in response to the increase or decrease in
linear actuator that extends or retracts the extendable por - the height of the housing relative to the first band 1402 and
tion . In other examples, the extendable portion can be the second band 1404 , tightness of the fit of the wearable
implemented as a fluid pressure control system such as a electronic device can respectively increase or decrease . In
pump that is configured to increase or decrease the pressure this manner, the actuator 1406 can achieve the adjustment
and / or volume of a fluid that then causes the extendable 40 A5 .
portion of the housing to extend or contract. In some FIG . 15A depicts a side plan view of an example wearable
examples , the extendable portion can be mechanically electronic device with another extendable housing portion
biased by a spring . In some cases, the bias can cause the configured to extend toward or retract from a user ' s skin in
extendable portion to be biased inwardly , in other cases, the response to an electrical signal from a tensioner. In many
bias spring can cause the extendable portion to be biased 45 cases the tensioner can be coupled to one or more actuators
outwardly . that, in response to a signal from the tensioner, adjust the fit
Furthermore , although illustrated as a large portion of the of the wearable electronic device .
bottom surface of the wearable electronic device 1300 , one The wearable electronic device 1500 can include a hous
can appreciate that in other embodiments , smaller extend i ng at that can be permanently or removably attached to a
able portions are possible . For example , in certain embodi- 50 band that is illustrated as a two -part band system including
ments, an optical biometric sensor coupled to the bottom a first band 1502 and a second band 1504 . In the illustrated
surface of the housing of the wearable device ( e. g., PPG embodiment, the housing of the wearable electronic device
sensor ) may require one or more transparent or semi- 1500 can include a deformable portion that can be config
transparent lenses such that optical components of the sensor ured to deform away from a bottom surface of the housing
can be exposed to conditions external to the housing of the 55 toward the user ' s wrist.
wearable electronic device 1300 . In some embodiments, In the illustrated embodiment, an actuator 1506 can be
these lenses can be extendable portions. For example, one or configured to deform the deformable portion . The actuator
more sensor lenses can extend or withdraw from contact can be in electrical communication with a tensioner (not
with the user 's skin . visible ), which may be disposed within the housing of the
In this manner, in response to the increase or decrease in 60 wearable electronic device 1500 .
the height of the housing relative to the first band 1302 and In this embodiment, the actuator 1506 can cause the
the second band 1304 , tightness of the fit of the wearable deformable portion of the housing of the wearable electronic
electronic device can respectively increase or decrease . In device 1500 to deform toward or deform away from the
this manner, the actuator can achieve the adjustment A5 . user 's skin . For example , in certain embodiments the
FIG . 14A depicts a side plan view of an example wearable 65 deformable portion can deform toward a user 's wrist (see ,
electronic device with an extendable buckle portion config - e .g ., FIG . 15B ) or , in other examples, the deformable portion
ured to extend toward or retract from a user' s skin in can deform away from the user ' s wrist. In such an embodi
US 9, 781, 984 B2
35 36
ment, the tensioner can cause the actuator 1506 to deform s pring. For example , the spring can be made from a shape
the deformable portion in response to an instruction to memory material such as Nitinol. In such an embodiment,
increase the tightness of the band or the tensioner can cause the tightness of a fit of the wearable electronic device 1700
the actuator 1506 to withdraw the deformable portion can be maintained by the tensioner by applying an electrical
toward the housing of the wearable electronic device in 5 current to the Nitinol.
response to an instruction to decrease the tightness of the In response to the increase or decrease in the tautness of
band . the spring of the actuator 1706 , can cause an increase or
In addition , although the deformable portion is illustrated decrease the tightness of the fit of the band . In this manner,
with an arcuate deformation , such a deformation is not the actuator 1706 can achieve the adjustment A4.
required . For example , in other embodiments, other defor - 10 FIG . 18 depicts a top plan view of an example wearable
mations are possible . electronic device with another two - piece band system con
As with the deformable portion described with respect to figured to retract toward the body of the wearable electronic
the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 13A - 13B , the deformable device in response to an electrical signal from a tensioner. In
portion of the buckle can be implemented using piezoelec - many cases the tensioner can be coupled to one or more
tric materials, electroactive polymers , pumps and fluids, 15 actuators that, in response to a signal from the tensioner,
electromagnetic attraction and repulsion , and so on . adjust the fit of the wearable electronic device .
In this manner, in response to the increase or decrease in The wearable electronic device 1800 can include a hous
the height of the housing relative to the first band 1502 and ing at that can be permanently or removably attached to a
the second band 1504 , tightness of the fit of the wearable band that is illustrated as a two - part band system including
electronic device can respectively increase or decrease . In 20 a first band 1802 and a second band 1804 . In the illustrated
this manner, the actuator 1506 can achieve the adjustment embodiment, a first actuator 1806 can be partially disposed
A5 . within the first band 1802 and partially disposed within the
FIG . 16 depicts a top plan view of an example wearable housing of the wearable electronic device. Similarly , a
electronic device with another two -piece band system con - second actuator 1808 can be partially disposed within a
figured to retract toward the body of the wearable electronic 25 second band 1804 and partially within the housing of the
device in response to an electrical signal from a tensioner. In wearable electronic device . Both the first actuator 1806 and
many cases the tensioner can be coupled to one or more the second actuator 1808 can be in electrical communication
actuators that , in response to a signal from the tensioner , with a tensioner (not visible ), which may be disposed within
davice .
adjust the fit of the wearable electronic device the housing of the wearable electronic device 1800. In these
The wearable electronic device 1600 can include a hous- 30 examples , the first actuator 1806 and the second actuator
ing at that can be permanently or removably attached to a 1808 can be worm gears (or other linear gears ) that are in
band that is illustrated as a two-part band system including communication with a gear disposed within the housing of
a first band 1602 and a second band 1604 . In the illustrated the wearable electronic device 1800 .
embodiment, a first actuator 1606 can be partially disposed In this manner, rotation of the gear can cause the first
within the first band 1602 and partially disposed within the 35 actuator 1806 and the second actuator 1808 to either extend
housing of the wearable electronic device . Similarly , a or to retract into the housing. In many embodiments the gear
second actuator 1608 can be partially disposed within a can be coupled to electrical motor. In other examples , the
second band 1604 and partially within the housing of the gear can be coupled to a haptic feedback device disposed
wearable electronic device . Both the first actuator 1606 and within the housing of the wearable electronic device 1800 .
the second actuator 1608 can be in electrical communication 40 As a result, the firstband 1802 and the second band 1804 can
with a tensioner (not visible ), which may be disposed within extend or retract. In this manner, the first actuator 1806 and
the housing of the wearable electronic device 1600 . the second actuator 1808 can achieve the adjustment A4.
In response to the increase or decrease in the size of the FIG . 19A depicts a top plan view of an example wearable
first actuator 1606 and the second actuator 1608 , the band electronic device with another two -piece band system con
can experience an increase or decrease the tension with 45 figured to contract along its length in response to an elec
which the first band 1602 and the second band 1604 are trical signal from a tensioner or in response to a user input.
coupled to the housing of the wearable electronic device In many cases the tensioner can be coupled to one or more
1600 , which , in turn , can cause an increase or decrease the actuators that, in response to a signal from the tensioner,
tightness of the fit of the band . In this manner, the first adjust the fit of the wearable electronic device .
actuator 1606 and the second actuator 1608 can achieve the 50 The wearable electronic device 1900 can include a hous
adjustment A4. ing at that can be permanently or removably attached to a
FIG . 17 depicts a top plan view of an example wearable band that is illustrated as a two -part band system including
electronic device with another two - piece band system con - a first band 1902 and a second band 1904 . In the illustrated
figured to retract into the body of the wearable electronic embodiment, a first actuator 1906 can be disposed within the
device in response to an electrical signal from a tensioner. In 55 first band . Similarly , a second actuator 1908 can be disposed
many cases the tensioner can be coupled to one or more within a second band 1904 . The first actuator can be
actuators that, in response to a signal from the tensioner, configured to be inserted into a buckle 1910 , for example as
adjust the fit of the wearable electronic device . shown in FIG . 19B .
The wearable electronic device 1700 can include a hous Both the first actuator 1906 and the second actuator 1908
ing at that can be permanently or removably attached to a 60 can be in electrical communication with a tensioner (not
band that is illustrated as a two -part band system including visible ), which may be disposed within the housing of the
a first band 1702 and a second band 1704 . In the illustrated wearable electronic device 1900 .
embodiment, an actuator 1706 can be formed as spring can In these examples , the first actuator 1906 and the second
be coupled between the first band 1702 and the second band actuator 1908 can be worm gears (or other linear gears ) that
1704 through the housing of the wearable electronic device 65 are in communication with a gear 1912 disposed within the
1700 . In some embodiments , the spring can be a passive buckle 1910 . In this manner, rotation of the gear can cause
spring. In other embodiments, the spring can be an active the first actuator 1906 and the second actuator 1908 to either
US 9, 781, 984 B2
37 38
extend or to retract into the housing. In many embodiments mined user- selected tightness. For example, in some
the gear can be coupled to electrical motor. In other embodiments , a sensor coupled to a band of the wearable
examples , the gear 1912 may be turned manually by a user. electronic device can periodically , continuously, or on
As a result, the first band 1902 and the second band 1904 can request measure the strain within the band . Thereafter, the
extend or retract. In this manner, the first actuator 1906 and 5 strain measurement can be correlated to (via a formula ,
the second actuator 1908 can achieve the adjustment A7 . algorithm output, or look -up table ) what degree of tightness
FIG . 20A depicts a side plan view of an example wearable the measured strain corresponds to . In some examples strain
electronic device with a movable housing configured to can be measured with a piezoresistive strain sensor. Upon
move toward or away from a user ' s skin in response to an determining that the current tightness of the band does not
electrical signal from a tensioner. The wearable electronic 10 match (or has been measured to be outside a threshold range
device 2000 can include a housing at that can be perma of tightnesses ), the method can continue to operation 2304
nently or removably attached to a two- part band system . In
the illustrated embodiment, the housing of the wearable in which the tightness of the band can be adjusted by either
electronic device 2000 can be configured to change the activating or deactivating a tensioner mechanism such as an
height of the housing of the wearable electronic device 2000 15 actuator that is mechanically coupled to the band itself.
relative to a user's wrist and to the band , such as shown by Thereafter, tightening or loosening can be terminated at
the relative difference between FIG . 20A and FIG . 20B . In operation 2306 , once the necessary tightness is obtained.
this manner, in response to the increase or decrease relative In many cases the threshold , threshold range, and /or other
positioning of the band and the housing of the wearable user -selected setting for tightness of the band can be
electronic device 2000, the tightness of the fit of the wear- 20 obtained from a memory associated with the wearable
able electronic device can respectively increase or decrease . electronic device . In other examples, the user setting can be
In this manner, the wearable electronic device 2000 can obtained from a third -party device, or a separate electronic
achieve the adjustment A5 . device in communication with the wearable electronic
FIG . 21A depicts a top plan view of an example wearable device .
electronic device with a pin and eyelet and interlacing band 25 FIG . 24 is a flow chart that depicts example operations of
system configured such that the pin moves along the longi- a method of dynamically adjusting the fit of a wearable
tudinal axis of the band system in response to an electrical electronic device prior to obtaining biometric data with a
signal from a tensioner. As illustrated , a first band 2102 and biometric sensor. The method can begin at operation 2402 in
a second band 2104 can be overlapped in order to form a which a command is received to obtain biometric data , such
closed loop around a user 's wrist. The first band 2102 can be 30 as a user ' s pulse . Next, at operation 2404 , a tightening
coupled to the second band 2104 via a pin and eyelet mechanism associated with the wearable electronic device
attachmentmechanism as substantially described herein . In can be activated in order to increase the tightness of the
this embodiment, an actuator 2108 can be coupled to the wearable electronic device against the measurement site for
eyelet , which itself can be coupled to the tensioner. In obtaining a biometric data measurement . Next , at operation
response to an instruction to loosen or tighten the fit of the 35 2406 , tightening can be discontinued once it is determined
wearable electronic device 2100, the tensioner can cause the that a tightness sufficient for obtaining biometric data is
actuator 2108 to move the eyelet along the longitudinal axis obtained . Next, at operation 2408 , biometric data can be
of the second band 2104 . In this manner , the actuator 2108 obtained . Finally , at operation 2410 , the previously -applied
to can achieve the adjustment A7 , as shown for example in tension can be released , and the band can be restored to its
FIG . 21B . 40 original tightness .
FIG . 22 is a flow chart that depicts example operations of FIG . 25 is a flow chart that depicts example operations of
a method of tightening the fit of a wearable electronic a method of dynamically adjusting the fit of a wearable
device . The method can begin at operation 2202 in which a electronic device as a means of soliciting a user' s attention .
command is received to tighten a band of a wearable The method can begin at operation 2502 by receiving a
electronic device by a selected amount. In some examples, 45 command to notify a wearer of the wearable electronic
the selected amount can be a value or pointer corresponding device . Next, at operation 2504 , the wearable electronic
to an amount or magnitude of tightness change, either device can be tightened .
relative or absolute . For example , the value or pointer can FIG . 26 is a flow chart that depicts example operations of
indicate that the fit should be tightened by 5 % . a method of dynamically adjusting the fit of a wearable
In another example , the value or pointer can indicate that 50 electronic device in response to heightened user activity . The
the fit should be tightened by shortening a band by 1 mm . In method can begin at operation 2602 by receiving an indi
another example , the value or pointer can indicate that the fit cation that the user is engaged in heighted activity . For
should be tightened by applying a force of 0 . 1 Newtons to example , in some embodiments , heighted user activity can
the band. In other embodiments , other values and / or pointers be detected by monitoring the output from one or more
may be used . 55 accelerometers, gyroscopes, inertial measurement units ,
The method can continue to operation 2204 in which a global positioning sensors, proximity sensors, and the link .
tensioner is activated to begin tightening the band . Next, at Next, at operation 2604, the wearable electronic device can
operation 2206 , tightening can be discontinued after the be tightened to prevent sliding during the heightened activ
selected amount of tightness increase is obtained . In other ity .
embodiments , the method depicted in FIG . 22 can be 60 Many embodiments of the foregoing disclosure may
implemented by first received a command to loosen the band include or may be described in relation to various methods
by a particular amount. of operation, use , manufacture , and so on . Notably, the
FIG . 23 is a flow chart that depicts example operations of operations ofmethods presented herein aremeant only to be
a method of dynamically adjusting the fit of a wearable exemplary and , accordingly , are not necessarily exhaustive .
electronic device. The method can begin at operation 2302 65 For example an alternate operation order, or fewer or addi
during which a signal can be received that indicates the band tional steps may be required or desired for particular
tightness has changed from a previously obtained or deter embodiments .
US 9 ,781,984 B2
39 40
The foregoing description , for purposes of explanation , send a signal to the tensioner to tighten the strap prior
used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough under to obtaining the biometric data from the biometric
standing of the described embodiments. However, it will be sensor.
apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are 11. The watch of claim 10 , wherein the biometric sensor
not required in order to practice the described embodiments . 5 obtains the biometric data via optical interaction with skin of
Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodi the user.
ments described herein are presented for purposes of illus 12 . The watch of claim 10 , wherein the strap comprises a
tration and description . They are not meant to be exhaustive material configured to change shape in response to an
or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed . electronic signal; and
It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that wherein the tensioner is configured to provide an elec
many modifications and variations are possible in view of tronic signal to the material in order to adjust the
the above teachings. In particular, any features described tightness of the strap .
with respect to one embodimentmay also be used in other 13 . The watch of claim 10 , wherein the tensioner is
embodiments, where compatible . Likewise , the features of a configured to extend a first portion of the housing outward
the different embodiments may be exchanged , substituted , or from a second portion of the housing and toward the user.
omitted where compatible and appropriate . 14 . The watch of claim 10 , wherein the tensioner is
configured to retract a first portion of the housing into a
We claim : second portion of the housing .
1. A method of adjusting a fit of a watch band of a watch , 20 15 . The watch of claim 10 , wherein the processor is
the method comprising: configured to receive an instruction to adjust a tightness of
receiving, with a processor of the watch , an electronic the strap from a portable electronic device in communication
instruction to obtain biometric data; with the watch .
in response to the receiving, electronically actuating a 16 . The watch of claim 10 , further comprising a sensor
tensioner coupled to the watch band to increase a 25 coupled to the processor and configured to detectmotion of
tha
tightness of the watch band on a wrist of a user; and
the watch ; and
after the actuating and with a biometric sensor of the wherein the processor is configured to send a signal to the
watch , obtaining the biometric data from the wrist of tensioner to tighten the strap upon receiving an indi
the user . cation of motion from the sensor.
2. The method of claim 1, further comprising : after 30 17 . The watch of claim 10 , wherein the biometric sensor
obtaining the biometric data, deactivating the tensioner. comprises a temperature sensor, an electrodermal sensor, a
3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: blood pressure sensor, a heart rate sensor, a respiration rate
receiving a user input from an inputmechanism ; and sensor , an oxygen saturation sensor, a plethysmographic
in response to receiving the user input, generating the sensor, a blood glucose sensor, a body weight sensor, a body
electronic instruction .
4 . The method of claim 1 , further comprising : fat sensor, a blood alcohol sensor, or a dietary sensor .
accessing a user setting ; and 18 . A watch comprising:
in response to accessing the user setting, generating the a housing;
electronic instruction . a watch band connected to the housing and configured to
5 . The method of claim 1, wherein obtaining the biometric 40 hold the housing against a wrist of a user;
data comprises receiving an output from the biometric a biometric sensor ;
sensor . a tensioner coupled to the watch band ; and
6 . The method of claim 1, wherein electronically actuat a processor programmed to :
ing the tensioner comprises electronically actuating the receive an electronic instruction to obtain biometric
tensioner to adjust a dimension of the watch band. 45 data ;
7. The method of claim 1, wherein electronically actuat in response to the electronic instruction and prior to
ing the tensioner comprises adjusting a coupling between the obtaining the biometric data , send a first signal to the
watch band and a wearable electronic device connected to tensioner to adjust a tightness of the watch band ; and
the watch band . send a second signal to the biometric sensor to obtain
8 . The method of claim 1, wherein electronically actuat - 50 the biometric data .
ing the tensioner comprises adjusting, by operation of the 19 . The watch ofclaim 18 , wherein watch band comprises
tensioner, a coupling between a first portion and a second a material configured to change shape in response to an
portion of the watch band . electronic signal; and
9 . The method of claim 1 , wherein obtaining the biometric
data comprises optically interacting between the biometric 55 wherein tronic
the tensioner is configured to provide an elec
signal to the material in order to adjust the
sensor and skin of a user.
10 . A watch comprising : tightness of the watch band.
a housing; 20 . The watch of claim 18 , further comprising a housing,
a processor within the housing ; wherein the tensioner is configured to extend a first portion
a strap coupled to the housing, the strap configured to hold 60 of the housing outward away from a second portion of the
the housing against a wrist of a user; housing.
a tensioner operably coupled to the processor and con - 21. The watch of claim 18 , further comprising a housing,
figured to , in response to an electronic signal from the wherein the tensioner is configured to retract a first portion
processor, adjust a tightness of the strap ; and of the housing into a second portion of the housing .
a biometric sensor operably coupled to the processor, 65 22 . The watch of claim 18 , further comprising a motion
wherein the processor is configured , in response to sensor coupled to the processor and configured to detect
receiving an instruction to obtain biometric data, to motion of the watch ; and
US 9,781, 984 B2
wherein the processor is configured to send a signal to the
tensioner to adjust the tightness of the watch band upon
receiving an indication of motion from the motion
sensor.
23 . The watch of claim 18 , wherein the biometric sensor 5
comprises a temperature sensor, an electrodermal sensor, a
blood pressure sensor, a heart rate sensor , a respiration rate
sensor, an oxygen saturation sensor, a plethysmographic
sensor, a blood glucose sensor, a body weight sensor, a body
fat sensor, a blood alcohol sensor , or a dietary sensor. 10
24 . The watch of claim 18 , wherein the biometric sensor
obtains the biometric data via optical interaction with skin of
a user.
* * * *

United States Patent: Baranski Et Al - (10) Patent No .: US 9, 781, 984 B2

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United States Patent: Baranski Et Al - (10) Patent No .: US 9, 781, 984 B2

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|HAI LAMA MTANDAO WA WAATU AA TAI MAN HATI

(12) United States Patent (10) Patent No.: US 9 ,781,984 B2

RECEIVE COMMAND TO OBTAIN BIOMETRIC 2402

BEGIN TIGHTENING BY ACTIVATING

DISCONTINUE TIGHTENING UPON OBTAINING 2406

1910 OBTAIN BIOMETRIC DATA h2408

DEACTIVATE BAND TENSIONER MECHANISM 2410

100 106 102

508 1500 504 502

564 $20 FIGG..50 502

FIG, 20A FIG, 20B

RECEIVE COMMAND TO TIGHTEN BAND h 2202

BEGIN TIGHTENING BY ACTIVATING h 2204

DISCONTINUE TIGHTENING UPON OBTAINING

DETERMINE BAND TIGHTNESS HAS CHANGED h2302

BEGIN ADJUSTING TIGHTNESS BY

DISCONTINUE ADJUSTING TIGHTNESS UPON

RECEIVE COMMAND TO OBTAIN BIOMETRIC - 2402

BEGIN TIGHTENING BY ACTIVATING h 2404

DISCONTINUE TIGHTENING UPON OBTAINING W 2406

OBTAIN BIOMETRIC DATA h 2408

DEACTIVATE BAND TENSIONER MECHANISM h 2410

RECEIVE COMMAND TO NOTIFY USER h2502

BEGIN TIGHTENING BY ACTIVATING W2504

DETECT HEIGHTENED ACTIVITY h 2602

BEGIN TIGHTENING BY ACTIVATING

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