Tape identification for wearable computing device

Abstract

A wearable computing device includes a housing, an energy storage device, and an energy interface configured to deliver electrical energy from the energy storage device to circuitry included on a strap removably coupled to the housing. The wearable computing device includes a switching device configured to selectively couple the energy storage device to the energy interface. The wearable computing device includes a processor configured to control operation of the switching device to couple the energy storage device to the energy interface to deliver electrical energy to circuitry included on the strap. The processor is configured to obtain data indicative of a unique identifier of the tape from circuitry on the tape. The processor is configured to control operation of the wearable computing device based at least in part on the data indicative of the unique identifier of the tape.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to wearable computing devices. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to identifying a strap for securing a wearable computing device to an appendage (eg, a wrist) of a user. Background Art

[0002] The wearable computing device may be secured to the user's wrist via a band that may be removably coupled to a housing of the wearable computing device. In this manner, the band may be an accessory to the wearable computing device. For example, a first band coupled to a housing of the wearable computing device may be decoupled from the housing, and a second band that is different (e.g., in color, material, etc.) from the first band may be coupled to the housing. Summary of the invention

[0003] Aspects and advantages of embodiments of the present disclosure will be set forth in part in the description which follows, or may be learned from the description, or may be learned through practice of the embodiments.

[0004] In one aspect, a wearable computing device is provided. The wearable computing device includes a housing, an energy storage device, and an energy interface. The energy interface is configured to deliver electrical energy from the energy storage device to a circuit included on a band removably coupled to the housing. The wearable computing device further includes a switching device configured to selectively couple the energy storage device to the energy interface. The wearable computing device further includes a processor configured to control the operation of the switching device to couple the energy storage device to the energy interface to deliver electrical energy to the circuit included on the band. The processor is further configured to obtain data from the circuit on the band. The data indicates a unique identifier of the band. The processor is further configured to control the operation of the wearable computing device based at least in part on the data indicating the unique identifier of the band.

[0005] In some embodiments, the energy interface includes a first conductor for energy and a second conductor for electrical ground.

[0006] In some embodiments, the processor is configured to obtain data indicative of a unique identifier of the band via the first conductor of the energy interface.

[0007] In some embodiments, the wearable computing device further includes one or more sensors, and the processor is further configured to determine whether the wearable computing device is being worn by the user based at least in part on data from the one or more sensors. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors include a heart rate sensor, and the data obtained from the one or more sensors includes heart rate data.

[0008] In some embodiments, the processor is configured to control operation of the switching device to couple the energy storage device to the energy interface in response to determining that the wearable computing device is not being worn by the user based at least in part on data obtained from the one or more sensors.

[0009] In some embodiments, the processor is further configured to control operation of the switching device to decouple the energy storage device from the energy interface in response to obtaining data indicative of the unique identifier of the strip.

[0010] In some embodiments, the unique identifier identifies one or more characteristics of the band. In some embodiments, the one or more characteristics of the band include at least one of the material of the band or the color of the band.

[0011] In some embodiments, the unique identifier indicates a band including one or more sensors. In such embodiments, the processor is configured to obtain data from the one or more sensors on the band. In addition, in some embodiments, the processor is configured to obtain data from the one or more sensors via an energy interface.

[0012] In another aspect, a method for identifying a band coupled to a housing of a wearable computing device is provided. The method includes determining, via a processor of the wearable computing device, that the wearable computing device is not being worn by a user. In response to determining that the wearable computing device is not being worn by the user, the method further includes controlling, via the processor of the wearable computing device, a switching device of the wearable computing device to electrically couple an energy storage device of the wearable computing device to an energy interface of the wearable computing device to transfer electrical energy from the energy storage device to a circuit included on a band coupled to the housing of the wearable computing device. The method further includes obtaining, via the processor, data indicating a unique identifier of the band from the circuit on the band. The method further includes controlling, via the processor, an operation of the wearable computing device based at least in part on the unique identifier of the band.

[0013] In some embodiments, determining that the wearable computing device is not being worn by the user includes obtaining data from one or more sensors of the wearable computing device and determining that the band is coupled to a housing of the wearable computing device based at least in part on the data from the one or more sensors.

[0014] In some embodiments, controlling the operation of the wearable computing device includes controlling, via the processor, the operation of an electronic output device of the wearable computing device. In some embodiments, the electronic output device includes a display screen, the unique identifier indicates a color of the band, and controlling the operation of the display screen includes adjusting a color of at least a portion of the display screen based at least in part on the color of the band.

[0015] These and other features, aspects and advantages of various embodiments of the present disclosure will be better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims.The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate example embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the relevant principles. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] A detailed discussion of the embodiments for those skilled in the art is set forth in this specification with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0017] Figure 1 A wearable computing device worn on a limb of a user is depicted in accordance with some implementations of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 2 Describes some implementations of the present disclosure Figure 1 A perspective view of a wearable computing device.

[0019] Figure 3 A block diagram of components of a system for identifying a band removably coupled to a housing of a wearable computing device is depicted, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 4 An energy interface of a system for identifying a band removably coupled to a housing of a wearable computing device is depicted in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 5 A system for identifying a band removably coupled to a housing of a wearable computing device is depicted in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 6 A system for identifying a band removably coupled to a housing of a wearable computing device is depicted in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0023] Fig. 7A Describes an embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 6 The time varying voltage signal at the processor on the strip in FIG.

[0024] Figure 7B Describes an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5 The processor on the tape outputs a time-varying binary signal.

[0025] Figure 8 A system for identifying a band removably coupled to a housing of a wearable computing device is depicted in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] Fig.9A A circuit on a strip is depicted according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Fig. 9B A circuit on a strip is depicted according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Fig. 9C A circuit on a strip is depicted according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Fig.9D A circuit on a strip is depicted according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Fig.9E A circuit on a strip is depicted according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Fig.10 A flow chart of a method for identifying a band removably coupled to a wearable computing device is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Fig.11 Another flow chart of a method for identifying a band removably coupled to a wearable computing device is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Fig.12 Yet another flow chart of a method for identifying a band removably coupled to a wearable computing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0034] Fig.13 Components of a computing system for a wearable computing device according to embodiments of the present disclosure are depicted. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the present disclosure, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the present disclosure rather than by way of limitation. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations may be made in the present disclosure without departing from the scope or spirit of the present disclosure. For example, a feature shown or described as part of one embodiment may be used together with another embodiment to produce yet another further embodiment. Therefore, the present invention is intended to encompass such modifications and changes within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0036] Example aspects of the present disclosure relate to a system for identifying which of a plurality of different bands (e.g., wristbands) is currently removably coupled to a housing of a wearable computing device. The system may include a first circuit as part of the wearable computing device and a second circuit as part of each of the plurality of different bands. The system may further include an energy interface configured to deliver electrical energy from an energy storage device (e.g., a battery, a capacitor) of the wearable computing device to the second circuit of one of the bands. The second circuit may transmit a unique identifier of the band to the first circuit. The first circuit may then identify the band based at least in part on the unique identifier.

[0037] The wearable computing device may operate uniquely based on the identification of a band that is removably coupled to the housing of the wearable computing device. For example, an electronic output device of the wearable computing device may operate uniquely based at least in part on the identification of the band. In some embodiments, the electronic output device may include a display screen, and the color of at least a portion of the display screen may change based on the identification of the band that is removably coupled to the housing of the wearable computing device. For example, in some embodiments, the color of the background of the display screen may be changed to match the color of the band. In such embodiments, it should be understood that the color of the band may be determined based at least in part on the unique identifier of the band.

[0038] In some embodiments, the band may include one or more sensors (e.g., biometric sensors) that are not present on the wearable computing device. In such embodiments, the unique identifier may indicate that the band includes the one or more sensors. Furthermore, in such embodiments, the wearable computing device may be operated to obtain data via the one or more sensors present on the band.

[0039] In some embodiments, the first circuit can be configured to identify the band when the user is not wearing the wearable computing device. For example, the first circuit can obtain data indicating whether the user is wearing the wearable computing device from one or more sensors (e.g., a heart rate sensor, a motion sensor, etc.). In this way, the first circuit can obtain a unique identifier of the band when the wearable computing device is not being worn by the user (e.g., off the wrist).

[0040] The disclosed technology can provide many technical effects and benefits. For example, a wearable computing device according to the present disclosure can identify different bands that are being used by a user to secure the wearable computing device to an appendage (e.g., a wrist) of the user. In addition, the wearable computing device can operate uniquely based at least in part on the identification of a band that is removably coupled to a housing of the wearable computing device. More specifically, the wearable computing device can perform functions specific to the type of band currently attached to the housing of the wearable computing device, which can improve the user experience.

[0041] Now referring to the accompanying drawings, Figure 1 and 2 A wearable computing device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted. As shown, the wearable computing device 100 can be worn, for example, on an arm 102 (e.g., a wrist) of a user. The wearable computing device 100 can include a housing 110 defining a cavity, and one or more electronic components (e.g., disposed on a printed circuit board) are disposed in the cavity. For example, the wearable computing device 100 can include a printed circuit board 120 (e.g., a flexible printed circuit board) disposed in the cavity. In addition, one or more electronic components can be included on the printed circuit board 120. The wearable computing device 100 can further include a battery (not shown) disposed in the cavity defined by the housing 110.

[0042] In some embodiments, the wearable computing device 100 includes a display 130. The display 130 can display content (e.g., date, time, number of steps, heart rate, etc.) for the user to view. It should be understood that the display 130 can include any suitable type of display. For example, in some embodiments, the display 130 can be an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display. It should be understood that the display 130 can be positioned under a display cover. In this way, the display 130 can be protected from damage (e.g., scratches, cracks). It should also be understood that the display cover can be transparent. In this way, the user can view the display 130 through the display cover.

[0043] As shown, the wearable computing device 100 can be secured to the user's arm 102 (e.g., wrist) via a band 140. The band 140 can include a first portion 142 and a second portion 144 separate from the first portion 142. The first portion 142 of the band 140 can be removably coupled to the housing 110 at a first position on the housing. Conversely, the second portion 144 of the band 140 can be removably coupled to the housing 110 at a second position different from the first position. For example, the first position and the second position can be on opposite sides of the housing 110.

[0044] It should be understood that the first portion 142 of the strap 140 can be coupled to the second portion 144 of the strap 140 to secure the wearable computing device 100 to the user's arm 102. In some embodiments, the first portion 142 of the strap 140 can include a buckle or clasp (not shown). Additionally, the second portion 144 of the strap 140 can include a plurality of apertures (not shown) spaced apart from one another along the length of the second portion 144 of the strap 140. In such embodiments, the prongs of the buckle associated with the first portion 142 of the strap 140 can extend through one of the plurality of openings defined by the second portion 144 of the strap 140 to couple the first portion 142 of the strap 140 to the second portion 144 of the strap 140.

[0045] It should be understood that the first portion 142 of the band 140 can be coupled to the second portion 144 of the band 140 using any suitable type of fastener. For example, in some embodiments, the first portion 142 of the band 140 and the second portion 144 of the band 140 can include magnets. In such embodiments, the first portion 142 of the band 140 and the second portion 144 of the band 140 can be magnetically coupled to each other to fasten the wearable computing device 100 to the user's arm 102. It should also be understood that the band 140 can be replaced with a different band. For example, the band 140 can be a first type (e.g., color, material) and can be replaced with a second type of band that is different from the first type. In this way, the band 140 can be an accessory of the wearable computing device 100 that can be customized according to the user's preferences.

[0046] Reference now Figure 3 and Figure 4 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a housing 110 ( Figure 1 ) of the band 140. As shown, the system 200 can be distributed across both the wearable computing device 100 and the band 140. More specifically, the system 200 can include a first circuit 210 on the wearable computing device 100 (e.g., a portion of the wearable computing device) and a second circuit 220 on the band 140 (e.g., a portion of the band). In some embodiments, the second circuit 220 can include a first portion 142 ( Figure 2 ) or the second portion 144 of the belt 140 ( Figure 2 In alternative embodiments, the second circuit 220 can be included on both the first portion 142 of the strip 140 and the second portion 144 of the strip 140. For example, in some embodiments, a first instance of the second circuit 220 can be included on the first portion 142 of the strip 140, and a second instance of the second circuit 220 can be included on the second portion 144 of the strip 140.

[0047] The system 200 may include an energy interface 230 configured to deliver electrical energy from an energy storage device 150 (e.g., a battery, a capacitor, etc.) on the wearable computing device 100 to a second circuit 220 included on the band 140. In some embodiments, the energy interface 230 may include a circuit for delivering energy from the energy storage device 150 (e.g., a battery, a capacitor, etc.) on the wearable computing device 100 to the second circuit 220 included on the band 140. Figure 3 ) is delivered to a first conductor 232 (e.g., a wire) included in the second circuit 220 on the band 140. The energy interface 230 may further include a second conductor 234 that is electrically grounded. It should be understood that the energy interface 230 may be implemented as electrical contacts on both the wearable computing device 100 and the band 140. For example, the first conductor 232 of the energy interface 230 may be implemented as a first electrical contact on the wearable computing device 100 and the band 140. Additionally, the second conductor 234 may be implemented as a second electrical contact on the wearable computing device 100 and the band 140. It should be understood that when the band 140 is removably coupled to the housing 110 ( Figure 2 ), the electrical contacts on band 140 contact corresponding contacts on wearable computing device 100.

[0048] In some embodiments, the first circuit 210 may include a processor 212 and a switching device 214. The switching device 214 may be electrically coupled between the energy storage device 150 and the energy interface 230. In addition, the processor 212 may be communicatively coupled to the switching device 214. In this manner, the processor 212 may transmit one or more control signals associated with controlling the operation of the switching device 214. For example, the processor 212 may control the operation of the switching device 214 to couple the energy storage device 150 to the energy interface 230 so that electrical energy may be transmitted from the energy storage device 150 to the second circuit 220 included on the belt 140. Conversely, the processor 212 may control the operation of the switching device 214 to decouple the energy storage device 150 from the energy interface 230 so that electrical energy may not be transmitted from the energy storage device 150 to the second circuit 220 included on the belt 140.

[0049] In some embodiments, the processor 212 may control the operation of the switching device 214 based at least in part on data obtained from one or more sensors of the wearable computing device 100. For example, in some embodiments, the processor 212 may control the operation of the switching device 214 to couple the energy storage device 150 to the energy interface 230 in response to determining that the wearable computing device 100 is being worn by a user. In this manner, when the wearable computing device 100 is being worn by a user, electrical energy may be transferred from the energy storage device 150 to the second circuit 220 included on the band 140.

[0050] In some embodiments, the processor 212 may control the operation of the switch 214 to couple the energy storage device 150 to the energy interface in response to determining that the wearable computing device 100 is not being worn by the user. In this way, when the wearable computing device 100 is not being worn by the user, electrical energy can be transferred from the energy storage device 150 to the second circuit 220 included on the band 140.

[0051] However, it should be understood that any suitable sensor configured to obtain data indicating whether a user is wearing the wearable computing device 100 is within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, in some embodiments, one or more sensors may include a motion sensor (e.g., an accelerometer, an inertial measurement unit, etc.). In an alternative embodiment, one or more sensors may include a heart rate sensor.

[0052] The second circuit 220 may be configured to transmit a unique identifier (e.g., a code, an address, etc.) of the band 140 to the first circuit 210. The unique identifier may indicate one or more characteristics of the band 140. For example, the unique identifier may indicate the color of the band 140. Alternatively or in addition, the unique identifier may indicate the material of the band 140. For example, the unique identifier may indicate whether the material of the band 140 is waterproof. In some embodiments, the unique identifier may indicate that the band 140 includes one or more sensors (e.g., a motion sensor, a touch sensor, etc.). For example, in some embodiments, the band 140 may include a sensor that is not included on the wearable computing device 100. In such an embodiment, the band 140 may be attached to the housing 110 of the wearable computing device 100 to provide additional functionality (e.g., sensing capabilities).

[0053] In some embodiments, the second circuit 220 may be configured to modulate the unique identifier onto a signal to generate a modulated signal that is transmitted to the wearable computing device 100. For example, in some embodiments, the second circuit 220 may transmit the modulated signal to the first circuit 210 via the energy interface 230. In an alternative embodiment, the second circuit 220 may transmit the modulated signal to the first circuit 210 via a wireless network. It should be understood that the second circuit 220 may be configured to implement any suitable modulation scheme. For example, in some embodiments, the second circuit 220 may be configured to modulate the unique identifier onto a signal according to an on-off keying modulation scheme.

[0054] In some embodiments, the first circuit 210 may include a decoder 216 configured to decode the modulated signal received from the second circuit 220. For example, the decoder 216 may decode the modulated signal to obtain a unique identifier of the band 140. In addition, the decoder 216 may transmit the unique identifier to the processor 212.

[0055] Reference now Figure 5 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a system 400 for identifying a band 140 is provided. As shown, the system 400 can be distributed across both the wearable computing device 100 and the band 140. For example, the system 400 may include a first circuit 410 as part of the wearable computing device 100 and a second circuit 420 as part of the band 140. In addition, the system 400 may include the above-referenced Figure 3 and Figure 4 Energy interface 230 discussed.

[0056] The first circuit 410 on the wearable computing device 100 may include a processor 412. The first circuit 410 may further include a voltage divider circuit 414, which is electrically coupled to the energy interface 230 ( Figure 4 ) between a first conductor 232 (e.g., an energy conductor) and a second conductor 234 (e.g., a ground conductor) of the energy interface 230. The voltage divider circuit 414 may include a first resistor R1 having a first resistance and a second resistor R2 having a second resistance R2 different from (e.g., greater than, less than) the first resistor R1.

[0057] The voltage divider circuit 414 can be configured to step down the voltage across the first conductor 232 and the second conductor 234 from a first voltage (e.g., approximately 5 volts) to a second voltage. The second voltage can include a range of voltages (e.g., approximately 0.5 volts to approximately 2 volts). In addition, the processor 412 can be electrically coupled to the voltage divider circuit 414 at a node 416 positioned between the first resistor R1 and the second resistor R2. In some embodiments, the processor 412 can include a general purpose input output (GPIO) pin electrically coupled to the node 416. In this manner, the processor 412 can be configured to read the GPIO pin 418 to obtain the output of the voltage divider circuit 414 (e.g., the second voltage that has been stepped down).

[0058] In some embodiments, the second circuit 420 on the band 140 may include a processor 422. As shown, the processor 422 may be electrically coupled to the energy interface 230 ( Figure 4 ). For example, the processor 422 may include a voltage supply pin 424 electrically coupled to the first conductor 232 of the energy interface 230. The processor 422 may further include a ground pin 426 electrically coupled to the second conductor 234 of the energy interface 230.

[0059] The processor 422 may further include a Figure 4) of the first conductor 232 of the voltage divider circuit 414. As shown, the second circuit 420 may include a resistor R3 electrically coupled between the first conductor 232 and the GPIO pin 428. In some embodiments, the resistance of the resistor R3 may be different from the resistance of the first resistor R1 and the second resistor R2 of the voltage divider circuit 414.

[0060] In some embodiments, the processor 422 may be configured to control the GPIO pin 428 to convey a unique identifier of the belt 140. For example, the processor 422 may drive the GPIO pin 428 to be low within a first time instance so that the voltage drop between the first conductor 232 and the second conductor 234 corresponds to a first voltage. In addition, the processor 422 may drive the GPIO pin 428 to be high so that the voltage drop between the first conductor 232 and the second conductor 234 corresponds to a second voltage that is different from (e.g., greater than) the first voltage. It should be understood that the processor 422 may drive the GPIO pin 428 to be low or high by writing a first value (e.g., 0) or a second value (e.g., 1) to the GPIO pin 428, respectively. For example, in some embodiments, the processor 422 may write a first value to the GPIO pin 428 to drive the GPIO pin to be low. Conversely, the processor 422 may write a second value to the GPIO pin 428 to drive the GPIO pin 428 to be high.

[0061] In some embodiments, processor 412 of first circuit 410 may be configured to read GPIO pin 418 while processor 422 of second circuit 420 is driving GPIO pin 428 of the processor to convey a unique identifier of belt 140. In this manner, processor 412 may obtain multiple voltage measurements of the output of voltage divider circuit 414.

[0062] Processor 412 may be configured to assign a binary value (e.g., 1 or 0) to each of the plurality of voltage measurements of the output of voltage divider circuit 414. For example, processor 412 may be configured to assign a first binary value (e.g., 1) when the output of voltage divider circuit 414 is equal to or greater than a threshold voltage, and to assign a second binary value (e.g., 0) when the output of voltage divider circuit 414 is less than the threshold voltage. In this manner, the plurality of voltage measurements of the output of voltage divider circuit 414 may be converted into a digital signal from which processor 412 may determine the identity of band 140.

[0063] Although the system 400 is directed to transmitting data (e.g., a unique identifier) ​​to the wearable computing device 100 ( Figure 3 ) on the first circuit 410 of the strip 140 ( Figure 3) is discussed with reference to the second circuit 420 on the energy interface 230, but it should be understood that the system 400 is not intended to be limited in this manner. For example, in some embodiments, the system 400 can be configured to allow the energy interface 230 ( Figure 4 ) Bidirectional data communication between the first circuit 410 and the second circuit 420.

[0064] Reference now Figure 6 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a system 500 for identifying a band 140 is provided. As shown, the system 500 can be distributed across both the wearable computing device 100 and the band 140. For example, the system 500 may include a first circuit 510 as part of the wearable computing device 100 and a second circuit 520 as part of the band 140. In addition, the system 500 may include the above reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 Energy interface 230 discussed.

[0065] The first circuit 510 may include a processor 512 and a comparator circuit 514. As shown in the figure, the comparator circuit 514 may be electrically coupled to the energy interface 230 ( Figure 4 ) between the first conductor 232 of the energy interface 230 and the second conductor 234 of the energy interface 230. The comparator circuit 514 may include a first resistor R1 for maintaining the first conductor 232 at a first potential V1 (e.g., approximately 3 volts). The comparator circuit 514 may include an operational amplifier 516. As shown, a first input (e.g., a non-inverting input) of the operational amplifier 516 may be electrically coupled to the first conductor 232 of the energy interface 230. In addition, a second input (e.g., an inverting input) of the operational amplifier 516 may be electrically coupled to a general purpose input output (GPIO) pin 513. As shown, the comparator circuit 514 may include a second resistor R2 for maintaining the GPIO pin 513 at a second potential V2 that is less than the first potential V1.

[0066] In some embodiments, the second circuit 520 on the band 140 may include a processor 522. As shown, the processor 522 may be electrically coupled to the energy interface 230 ( Figure 4 ). For example, the processor 522 may include a voltage supply pin 524 electrically coupled to the first conductor 232 of the energy interface 230. The processor 522 may further include a ground pin 526 electrically coupled to the second conductor 234 of the energy interface 230.

[0067] The processor 522 may further include a Figure 4) of the first conductor 232 of the comparator circuit 514. As shown, the second circuit 520 may include a resistor R3 electrically coupled between the first conductor 232 and the GPIO pin 528. In some embodiments, the resistance of the resistor R3 may be different from the resistance of the first resistor R1 and the second resistor R2 of the comparator circuit 514.

[0068] In some embodiments, the processor 522 can be configured to control the GPIO pin 528 to convey the unique identifier of the belt 140. For example, the processor 522 can drive the GPIO pin 528 to be low within a first time instance so that the first potential V1 corresponds to a first voltage. In addition, the processor 522 can drive the GPIO pin 528 to be high so that the first potential V1 corresponds to a second voltage that is different from (e.g., greater than) the first voltage. It should be understood that the processor 522 can drive the GPIO pin 528 to be low or high by writing a first value (e.g., 0) or a second value (e.g., 1) to the GPIO pin 528, respectively. For example, in some embodiments, the processor 522 can write a first value to the GPIO pin 528 to drive the GPIO pin to be low. Conversely, the processor 522 can write a second value to the GPIO pin 528 to drive the GPIO pin 528 to be high.

[0069] It should be understood that the operational amplifier 516 can compare the first potential V1 to the second potential V2 (e.g., a reference potential). It should also be understood that the operational amplifier 516 can output a first value when the first potential V1 is greater than the second potential V2, and can output a second value when the first potential V2 is not greater than the second potential V2. It should also be understood that when the processor 522 on the strip is driving the GPIO pin 528 of the processor to transmit the unique identifier, the processor 512 can determine the unique identifier of the strip 140 based on the change in the output of the operational amplifier 516.

[0070] Although the system 500 is directed to transmitting data (e.g., a unique identifier) ​​to the wearable computing device 100 ( Figure 3 ) on the first circuit 510 with 140 ( Figure 3 ) is discussed with reference to the second circuit 520 on the energy interface 230, but it should be understood that the system 500 is not intended to be limited in this manner. For example, in some embodiments, the system 500 can be configured to allow the energy interface 230 ( Figure 4 ) Bidirectional data communication between the first circuit 510 and the second circuit 520.

[0071] Reference now Fig. 7A and Figure 7B According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, two separate voltage signals varying with time are provided. Fig. 7A Depicted is a diagram of a process in the second circuit 520 ( Figure 6 ) of the processor 522 ( Figure 6 ) voltage supply pin 524 ( Figure 6 ) is measured at a voltage signal 600. In addition, Figure 7B Depicted is the same time period in the second circuit 520 ( Figure 6 ) of the processor 522 ( Figure 6 ) of GPIO pin 528 ( Figure 6 ) measured at the binary signal 610. It should be understood that the portion of the binary signal 610 represented by the box 612 indicates that the band 140 ( Figure 2 ). For example, GPIO pin 528 may be driven low or high to convey a unique identifier of belt 140. It should be appreciated that driving GPIO pin 528 low or high causes voltage signal 600 to switch between first voltage V1 and second voltage V2, respectively.

[0072] Reference now Figure 8 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a system 700 for identifying a band 140 is provided. As shown, the system 700 can be distributed across both the wearable computing device 100 and the band 140. For example, the system 700 may include a first circuit 710 as part of the wearable computing device 100 and a second circuit 720 as part of the band 140. In addition, the system 700 may include the above reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 Energy interface 230 discussed.

[0073] The first circuit 710 may include a processor 712 and a comparator circuit 714. As shown in the figure, the comparator circuit 714 may be electrically coupled to the energy interface 230 ( Figure 4 ) between the first conductor 232 of the energy interface 230 and the second conductor 234 of the energy interface 230. The comparator circuit 714 may include a first resistor R1 for maintaining the first conductor 232 at a first potential V1 (e.g., approximately 3 volts). The comparator circuit 714 may include an operational amplifier 716. As shown, a first input (e.g., a non-inverting input) of the operational amplifier 716 may be electrically coupled to the first conductor 232 of the energy interface 230. In addition, a second input (e.g., an inverting input) of the operational amplifier 516 may be electrically coupled to a general purpose input output (GPIO) pin 713. As shown, the comparator circuit 714 may include a second resistor R2 for maintaining the GPIO pin 713 at a second potential V2 that is less than the first potential V1.

[0074] In some embodiments, the second circuit 720 on the band 140 may include a processor 722. As shown, the processor 722 may be electrically coupled to the energy interface 230 ( Figure 4 ) of the first conductor 232. For example, the processor 722 may include a first conductor 232 electrically coupled to the energy interface 230 ( Figure 4 ) of the first conductor 232 of the power interface 230. The processor 722 may further include a ground pin 726 electrically coupled to the second conductor 234 of the power interface 230.

[0075] The processor 722 may further include a Figure 4 ) of the first conductor 232 of the comparator circuit 714. As shown, the second circuit 720 may include a resistor R3 electrically coupled between the first conductor 232 and the GPIO pin 728. In some embodiments, the resistance of the resistor R3 may be different from the resistance of the first resistor R1 and the second resistor R2 of the comparator circuit 714.

[0076] In some embodiments, the processor 722 of the second circuit 720 can be configured to control the GPIO pin 728 to convey the unique identifier of the belt 140. For example, the processor 722 can drive the GPIO pin 728 to be low within a first time instance so that the first potential V1 corresponds to a first voltage. In addition, the processor 722 can drive the GPIO pin 728 to be high so that the first potential V1 corresponds to a second voltage that is different from (e.g., greater than) the first voltage. It should be understood that the processor 722 can drive the GPIO pin 728 to be low or high by writing a first value (e.g., 0) or a second value (e.g., 1) to the GPIO pin 728, respectively. For example, in some embodiments, the processor 722 can write a first value to the GPIO pin 728 to drive the GPIO pin to be low. Conversely, the processor 722 can write a second value to the GPIO pin 728 to drive the GPIO pin 728 to be high.

[0077] It should be understood that the operational amplifier 716 can compare the first potential V1 with the second potential V2 (e.g., a reference potential). It should also be understood that the operational amplifier 716 can output a first value when the first potential V1 is greater than the second potential V2, and can output a second value when the first potential V2 is not greater than the second potential V2. It should also be understood that when the processor 722 on the belt drives the GPIO pin 728 of the processor to transmit the unique identifier of the belt 140, the processor 712 can determine the unique identifier of the belt 140 based on the change in the output of the operational amplifier 716.

[0078] As shown in the figure, the wearable computing device 100 ( Figure 1) may include a motion sensor 160 electrically coupled to an energy interface 230 ( Figure 4 ) of the first conductor 232. The motion sensor 160 may be configured to obtain motion data indicating movement of the wearable computing device 100. In this manner, the first circuit 710 (specifically, the processor 712 thereof) may determine whether the user is wearing the wearable computing device 100 based at least in part on the motion data obtained via the motion sensor 160. In some embodiments, the motion sensor may include an inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor. However, it should be understood that the motion sensor 160 may include any suitable type of sensor configured to detect motion. For example, in some embodiments, the motion sensor 160 may include an accelerometer.

[0079] In some embodiments, the second circuit 720 on the band 140 may include an antenna 730. As shown, the antenna 730 may be electrically coupled to the processor 722 of the second circuit. For example, the antenna 730 may be electrically coupled to the voltage supply pin 724 of the processor 722. In some embodiments, the antenna 730 may be configured to transmit a unique identifier of the band 140 to the wearable computing device 100 via a wireless network. Alternatively or in addition, the band 140 may include one or more sensors (e.g., capacitive sensors), and the antenna 730 may be configured to transmit data from the one or more sensors to the wearable computing device 100. It should be understood that the wearable computing device 100 may include one or more antennas (not shown) to facilitate communication with the band 140 via a wireless network.

[0080] In some embodiments, the antenna 730 may also be used as an electrode for sensing touch events (e.g., a capacitive sensor) or user movement (e.g., static change sensing). In addition, in some embodiments, the antenna 730 may be communicatively coupled to the first circuit 710 on the wearable computing device 100. In this manner, data indicating a motion / touch event sensed by the antenna 730 when used as an electrode may be transmitted to the processor 712 of the first circuit 710 on the wearable computing device 100. The first circuit 710 may be configured to process data indicating a motion and / or touch event sensed by the antenna 730. For example, in some embodiments, the processor 712 of the first circuit 710 may be configured to implement a machine learning model for classifying data sensed by the antenna 730 as one of a plurality of different motion / touch events. In an alternative embodiment, the machine learning model may be implemented by the motion sensor 160 of the wearable computing device 100 to classify data sensed by the antenna 730 as one of a plurality of different motion / touch events.

[0081] Reference now Fig.9A, embodiments of a second circuit 220 on a band 140 are provided according to the present disclosure. As shown, the second circuit 220 may be included on a first portion 142 of the band 140 and a second portion 144 of the band 140. In some embodiments, the second circuit 220 may include a resistor. For example, in some embodiments, the second circuit 220 on the first portion 142 of the band 140 may include a resistor. It should be understood that the resistor may have a resistance value unique to the band 140. In this manner, the voltage at the energy interface 230 may uniquely identify the band 140 when the band 140 is coupled to the housing 110 of the wearable computing device 100.

[0082] Reference now Fig. 9B According to the present disclosure, another embodiment of the second circuit 220 on the belt 140 is provided. The second circuit 220 may include a logic circuit included on the first portion 142 of the belt 140. The logic circuit may be configured to convey a unique identifier of the belt 140. In some embodiments, the second circuit 220 may be configured to Figure 5 and Figure 6 The second circuit 420, 520 depicted in FIG.

[0083] Reference now Fig. 9C , yet another embodiment of the second circuit 220 on the belt 140 is provided according to the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the second circuit 220 disposed on the first portion 142 of the belt 140 may be a logic circuit configured to transmit a unique identifier of the first portion 142 of the belt 140. In addition, the second circuit 220 disposed on the second portion 144 of the belt 140 may be a resistor having a resistance value that may uniquely identify the second portion 144 of the belt 140. For example, the resistor may cause the voltage at the energy interface 230 to have a voltage value that uniquely identifies the second portion 144 of the belt 140.

[0084] Reference now Fig.9D According to the present disclosure, another embodiment of the second circuit 220 on the band 140 is provided. In some embodiments, the second circuit 220 disposed on the first portion 142 of the band 140 may be a logic circuit configured to transmit a unique identifier of the band 140. In addition, the second circuit 220 disposed on the second portion 144 of the band 140 may include one or more sensors (e.g., capacitive sensors) configured to determine whether the band 140 is being worn by a user.

[0085] Reference now Fig.9E, another embodiment of a second circuit 220 on the band 140 is provided according to the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the second circuit 220 disposed on the first portion 142 of the band 140 may include a logic circuit configured to transmit a unique identifier of the band 140. In addition, the second circuit 220 disposed on the first portion 142 of the band 140 may further include one or more sensors configured to determine whether the band 140 is being worn by a user. In addition, in some embodiments, the second circuit 220 disposed on the second portion 144 of the band 140 may include one or more sensors configured to determine whether the band 140 is being worn by a user. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors on the second portion 144 of the band 140 may be different from the one or more sensors on the first portion 142 of the band 140.

[0086] It should be understood that 9A to 9E The functionality of the band 140 depicted in FIG. 1 is not intended to be limited to having a circuit (e.g., second circuit 220) that stores a unique identifier of the band 140 and transmits the unique identifier to the wearable computing device 100. For example, in some embodiments, the band 140 may include one or more motion sensors (e.g., accelerometers) configured to detect movement of the band 140. Alternatively or in addition, the one or more sensors included on the band 140 may include one or more touch sensors. In such embodiments, data from the one or more motion sensors, the one or more touch sensors, or both may be processed (e.g., via a machine learning model) to determine whether the data indicates that a user is performing one or more movements (e.g., a predefined gesture). In some embodiments, the wearable computing device 100 may perform one or more control actions in response to determining that the data corresponds to a predefined gesture.

[0087] In some embodiments, band 140 may include an output device. For example, in some embodiments, the output device may include an LED indicator. In such embodiments, when band 140 is attached to wearable computing device 100 and is drawing power from energy storage device 150 ( Figure 2 ) when receiving power, the LED indicator can be activated (e.g., turned on). In this way, the LED indicator can provide a user with a visual notification that the band 140 is attached to the wearable computing device 100 and is receiving power from the energy storage device 150 of the wearable computing device 100.

[0088] Reference now Fig.10 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a flowchart of an example method 800 for identifying a band for a wearable computing device is provided. The method 800 may be performed by, for example, Figure 3 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 8 Any of the systems 200, 400, 500, 700 discussed herein may be used to implement the present invention. For purposes of illustration and discussion, Fig.10 The steps are depicted as being performed in a particular order. One of ordinary skill in the art, using the disclosure provided herein, will appreciate that the various steps of method 800 or any of the other methods disclosed herein may be adjusted, modified, rearranged, performed simultaneously, or modified in various ways without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0089] At (802), method 800 may include controlling the operation of a switching device to electrically couple an energy storage device of a wearable computing device to an energy interface of the wearable computing device. In this manner, electrical energy may be transferred from the energy storage device to a circuit included on a band removably coupled to a housing of the wearable computing device.

[0090] At (804), method 800 may include obtaining data (e.g., a unique identifier) ​​from circuitry included on the band. In some embodiments, the circuitry on the band may transmit the data to the wearable computing device via the energy interface. More particularly, the circuitry on the band may transmit the data via energy conductors of the energy interface. In an alternative embodiment, the circuitry on the band may transmit the data to the wearable computing device via a wireless network. After obtaining the data, method 800 may proceed to (808).

[0091] At (806), method 800 may include controlling the operation of the switching device to decouple the energy storage device of the wearable computing device from the energy interface of the wearable computing device. In this manner, electrical energy may no longer be transferred from the energy storage device to circuitry included on a band removably coupled to a housing of the wearable computing device.

[0092] At (808), method 800 may include controlling the operation of the wearable computing device based at least in part on the data obtained from the circuit on the band. For example, in some embodiments, an electronic output device of the wearable computing device may operate uniquely based at least in part on the data obtained at (804). In some embodiments, the electronic output device may include a display screen, and the color of at least a portion of the display screen may be changed based on the identification of the band removably coupled to the housing of the wearable computing device. For example, in some embodiments, the color of the background of the display screen may be changed to match the color of the band. In such embodiments, it should be understood that the color of the band may be determined based at least in part on the unique identifier of the band.

[0093] Reference now Fig.11 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a flowchart of an example method 900 for identifying a band for a wearable computing device is provided. The method 900 may be performed by, for example, Figure 3 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 8 Any of the systems 200, 400, 500, 700 discussed herein may be implemented. For purposes of illustration and discussion, Fig.11 The steps are depicted as being performed in a particular order. One of ordinary skill in the art, using the disclosure provided herein, will appreciate that the various steps of method 900 or any of the other methods disclosed herein may be adjusted, modified, rearranged, performed simultaneously, or modified in various ways without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0094] At (902), method 900 may include determining whether the wearable computing device is being worn by a user. In some embodiments, a first circuit on the wearable computing device may obtain data from one or more sensors configured to obtain data indicating whether the wearable computing device is being worn by a user (e.g., motion data, heart rate data, etc.). When the first circuit determines that the wearable computing device is not being worn by a person based on the data from the one or more sensors, method 900 proceeds to (904). Otherwise, method 900 continues to (912).

[0095] At (904), method 900 may include controlling the operation of the switching device to electrically couple the energy storage device of the wearable computing device to the energy interface of the wearable computing device. In this manner, electrical energy can be transferred from the energy storage device to a circuit included on a band removably coupled to a housing of the wearable computing device.

[0096] At (906), method 900 may include obtaining data (e.g., a unique identifier) ​​from circuitry included on the band. In some embodiments, the circuitry on the band may transmit the data to the wearable computing device via the energy interface. More particularly, the circuitry on the band may transmit the data via energy conductors of the energy interface. In an alternative embodiment, the circuitry on the band may transmit the data to the wearable computing device via a wireless network. After obtaining the data, method 900 may proceed to (908).

[0097] At (908), method 900 may include controlling the operation of the switching device to decouple the energy storage device of the wearable computing device from the energy interface of the wearable computing device. In this manner, electrical energy may no longer be transferred from the energy storage device to circuitry included on a band removably coupled to a housing of the wearable computing device.

[0098] At (910), method 900 may include controlling the operation of the wearable computing device based at least in part on the data obtained from the circuit on the band. For example, in some embodiments, an electronic output device of the wearable computing device may operate uniquely based at least in part on the data obtained at (906). In some embodiments, the electronic output device may include a display screen, and the color of at least a portion of the display screen may be changed based on the identification of the band removably coupled to the housing of the wearable computing device. For example, in some embodiments, the color of the background of the display screen may be changed to match the color of the band. In such embodiments, it should be understood that the color of the band may be determined based at least in part on the unique identifier of the band.

[0099] In some embodiments, the band may include one or more sensors (e.g., biometric sensors) that are not present on the wearable computing device. In such embodiments, the unique identifier may indicate that the band includes the one or more sensors. Furthermore, in such embodiments, the wearable computing device may be operated to obtain data via the one or more sensors present on the band. In this manner, the wearable computing device may provide additional functionality due, at least in part, to the presence of the one or more sensors on the band.

[0100] At (912), method 900 may continue. For example, in some embodiments, method 900 may end. In alternative embodiments, method 900 may remain at (902) and continue to obtain data from one or more sensors of the wearable computing device until the data obtained from the one or more sensors indicates that the wearable computing device is not being worn by the user, and the method may proceed to (904).

[0101] Reference now Fig.12 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a flowchart of an example method 1000 for identifying a band for a wearable computing device is provided. The method 1000 may be performed by, for example, Figure 3 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 8 Any of the systems 200, 400, 500, 700 discussed herein may be implemented. For purposes of illustration and discussion, Fig.12 The steps are depicted as being performed in a particular order. One of ordinary skill in the art, using the disclosure provided herein, will appreciate that the various steps of method 1000 or any of the other methods disclosed herein may be adjusted, modified, rearranged, performed simultaneously, or modified in various ways without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0102] At (1002), method 1000 may include determining whether the wearable computing device is being worn by a user. In some embodiments, a first circuit on the wearable computing device may obtain data from one or more sensors configured to obtain data indicating whether the wearable computing device is being worn by a user (e.g., motion data, heart rate data, etc.). When the first circuit determines that the wearable computing device is being worn by a person based on the data from the one or more sensors, method 1000 proceeds to (1004). Otherwise, method 1000 continues to (1012).

[0103] At (1004), method 1000 may include controlling the operation of the switching device to electrically couple the energy storage device of the wearable computing device to the energy interface of the wearable computing device. In this manner, electrical energy can be transferred from the energy storage device to a circuit included on a band removably coupled to a housing of the wearable computing device.

[0104] At (1006), method 1000 may include obtaining data (e.g., a unique identifier) ​​from circuitry included on the band. In some embodiments, the circuitry on the band may transmit the data to the wearable computing device via the energy interface. More particularly, the circuitry on the band may transmit the data via energy conductors of the energy interface. In an alternative embodiment, the circuitry on the band may transmit the data to the wearable computing device via a wireless network. After obtaining the data, method 1000 may proceed to (1008).

[0105] At (1008), method 1000 may include controlling the operation of the switching device to decouple the energy storage device of the wearable computing device from the energy interface of the wearable computing device. In this manner, electrical energy may no longer be transferred from the energy storage device to circuitry included on a band removably coupled to a housing of the wearable computing device.

[0106] At (1010), method 1000 may include controlling the operation of the wearable computing device based at least in part on the data obtained from the circuit on the band. For example, in some embodiments, an electronic output device of the wearable computing device may operate uniquely based at least in part on the data obtained at (1006). In some embodiments, the electronic output device may include a display screen, and the color of at least a portion of the display screen may be changed based on an identification of a band removably coupled to a housing of the wearable computing device. For example, in some embodiments, the color of the background of the display screen may be changed to match the color of the band. In such embodiments, it should be understood that the color of the band may be determined based at least in part on the unique identifier of the band.

[0107] In some embodiments, the band may include one or more sensors (e.g., biometric sensors) that are not present on the wearable computing device. In such embodiments, the unique identifier may indicate that the band includes the one or more sensors. Furthermore, in such embodiments, the wearable computing device may be operated to obtain data via the one or more sensors present on the band. In this manner, the wearable computing device may provide additional functionality due, at least in part, to the presence of the one or more sensors on the band.

[0108] At (1012), method 1000 may continue. For example, in some embodiments, method 800 may end. Alternatively, method 1000 may remain at (1002) and continue to obtain data from one or more sensors of the wearable computing device until the data obtained from the one or more sensors indicates that the wearable computing device is not being worn by the user, and the method may proceed to (1004).

[0109] Reference now Fig.13 , illustrates components of an example computing system 1100 of a wearable computing device 100 that may be utilized in accordance with various embodiments. In particular, as shown, the computing system 1100 may also include at least one controller 1102. Further, in embodiments, the controller 1102 may be a central processing unit (CPU) or a graphics processing unit (GPU) for executing instructions that may be stored in a memory device 1104 such as flash memory or DRAM, among other such options. For example, in embodiments, the memory device 1104 may include RAM, ROM, flash memory, or other non-transitory digital data storage, and may include a control program that includes sequences of instructions that, when loaded from the memory device 1104 and executed using the controller 1102, cause the controller 1102 to perform the functions described herein.

[0110] The computing system 1100 may include many types of memory, data storage, or computer-readable media, such as data storage for program instructions executed by a controller or any suitable processor. The same or separate storage may be used for images or data, removable memory may be used to share information with other devices, and any number of communication methods may be used to share with other devices. In addition, as shown, the computing system 1100 includes a display 130, which may be a touch screen, an organic light emitting diode (OLED), or a liquid crystal display (LCD), but the device may communicate information via other means, such as through an audio speaker, a projector, or projecting a display or streaming data to another device such as a mobile phone, where an application on the mobile phone displays the data.

[0111] The computing system 1100 also includes an energy storage device 150, which is operable to be recharged by a conventional plug-in method. In some embodiments, the computing system 1100 may also include at least one additional I / O device 1110 capable of receiving conventional input from a user. This conventional input may include, for example, a button, a touch pad, a touch screen, a roller, a joystick, a keyboard, a mouse, a keypad, or any other such device or element, whereby a user can input commands to the computing system 1100. In some embodiments, the I / O device 1110 may be connected by wireless infrared or Bluetooth or other links in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the computing system 1100 may include a microphone or other audio capture element that accepts voice or other audio commands. In some embodiments, the I / O device 1110 may include one or more electrodes, an optical sensor, a barometric sensor (e.g., an altimeter, etc.), and others.

[0112] The computing system 1100 may include one or more wireless networking components 1112 that are operable to communicate with one or more electronic devices within the communication range of a particular wireless channel. The wireless channel may be any suitable channel for enabling devices to communicate wirelessly, such as a Bluetooth, cellular, NFC, ultra-wideband (UWB), or Wi-Fi channel. It should be understood that the computing system 1100 may have one or more conventional wired communication connections known in the art.

[0113] The computing system 1100 may include a driver 1114 and at least some combination of one or more emitters 1116 and one or more detectors 1118 for measuring data of one or more indicators of a human body (such as a person wearing the wearable computing device 100). In some embodiments, for example, this may involve at least one imaging element, such as one or more cameras capable of capturing images of the surrounding environment and capable of imaging a user, person, or object near the device. The image capture element may include any appropriate technology, such as a CCD image capture element with sufficient resolution, focal range, and visual area to capture an image of the user when the user operates the device. Further image capture elements may also include a depth sensor. Methods for capturing images using camera elements with computing devices are well known in the art and will not be discussed in detail herein. It should be understood that image capture may be performed using a single image, multiple images, periodic imaging, continuous image capture, image streaming, etc. Further, the computing system 1100 may include capabilities such as starting and / or stopping image capture when a command from a user, application, or other device is received.

[0114] The emitter 1116 and the detector 1118 can also be used in one example to obtain an optical photoplethysmogram (PPG) measurement. Some PPG techniques rely on detecting light at a single spatial location, or adding signals acquired from two or more spatial locations. Both methods produce a single spatial measurement from which a heart rate (HR) estimate (or other physiological indicator) can be determined. In some embodiments, the PPG device employs a single light source (i.e., a single light path) coupled to a single detector. Alternatively, the PPG device may employ multiple light sources (i.e., two or more light paths) coupled to a single detector or multiple detectors. In other embodiments, the PPG device employs multiple detectors coupled to a single light source or multiple light sources (i.e., two or more light paths). In some cases, the light source may be configured to emit one or more of green light, red light, infrared (IR) light, and any other suitable wavelength in the spectrum (such as long IR for metabolic monitoring). For example, the PPG device may employ a single light source and two or more light detectors, each of which is configured to detect a specific wavelength or wavelength range. In some cases, each detector is configured to detect a wavelength or wavelength range that is different from each other. In other cases, two or more detectors are configured to detect the same wavelength or wavelength range. In yet another case, one or more detectors are configured to detect a specific wavelength or wavelength range that is different from one or more other detectors. In embodiments employing multiple light paths, the PPG device can determine an average of the signals generated from the multiple light paths before determining an HR estimate or other physiological indicator.

[0115] In addition, in embodiments, the transmitter 1116 and the detector 1118 can be coupled to the controller 1102 directly or indirectly using a driver circuit system, through which the controller 1102 can drive the transmitter 1116 and obtain a signal from the detector 1118. The host computer 1122 can communicate with the wireless networking component 1112 via one or more networks 1120, which can include one or more local area networks, wide area networks, UWB and / or the Internet using any terrestrial or satellite links. In some embodiments, the host computer 1122 executes a control program and / or application.

[0116] Although the subject matter has been described in detail with respect to various specific example embodiments of the subject matter, each example is provided by way of explanation rather than limitation of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art, after understanding the foregoing, may easily produce changes, variations, and equivalents of such embodiments. Therefore, the present disclosure does not exclude such modifications, variations, and / or additions to the subject matter that would be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. For example, a feature shown or described as part of one embodiment may be used together with another embodiment to produce yet another embodiment. Therefore, the present disclosure is intended to cover such changes, variations, and equivalents.

Claims

1. A wearable computing device, comprising: shell; Energy storage devices; an energy interface configured to deliver electrical energy from the energy storage device to circuitry included on a strap removably coupled to the housing; a switching device configured to selectively couple the energy storage device to the energy interface; as well as A processor, the processor being configured to: controlling operation of the switching device to couple the energy storage device to the energy interface to deliver the electrical energy to the circuit included on the strap; obtaining data indicative of a unique identifier of the band from the circuit on the band; and Operation of the wearable computing device is controlled based at least in part on the data indicative of the unique identifier of the band.

2. The wearable computing device of claim 1, wherein: The energy interface comprises a first conductor for energy and a second conductor for electrical ground.

3. The wearable computing device of claim 2, wherein: The processor is configured to obtain the data indicative of the unique identifier via the first conductor of the energy interface.

4. The wearable computing device of claim 1, wherein: The wearable computing device includes one or more sensors; and The processor is further configured to determine whether the wearable computing device is being worn by a user based at least in part on the data from the one or more sensors.

5. The wearable computing device of claim 4, wherein: The one or more sensors include a heart rate sensor, and the data includes heart rate data.

6. The wearable computing device of claim 4, wherein: The processor is configured to control operation of the switching device to electrically couple the energy storage device to the energy interface in response to determining that the wearable computing device is not being worn by the user.

7. The wearable computing device of claim 1, wherein: The processor is further configured to: Operation of the switching device is controlled in response to obtaining the data indicative of the unique identifier of the strip to decouple the energy storage device from the energy interface to cease delivery of the electrical energy to the circuitry included on the strip.

8. The wearable computing device of claim 1, wherein: The unique identifier identifies one or more characteristics of the band.

9. The wearable computing device of claim 8, wherein: The one or more characteristics include at least one of a material of the band or a color of the band.

10. The wearable computing device of claim 8, wherein: The unique identifier is indicative of one or more sensors included on the band.

11. The wearable computing device of claim 10, wherein: To control operation of the wearable computing device, the processor is configured to obtain data from the one or more sensors on the band.

12. The wearable computing device of claim 11, wherein: The processor is configured to obtain the data from the one or more sensors on the belt via the energy interface.

13. A method for identifying a band coupled to a housing of a wearable computing device, the method comprising: controlling, via a processor of the wearable computing device, a switching device of the wearable computing device to electrically couple an energy storage device of the wearable computing device to an energy interface of the wearable computing device to transfer electrical energy from the energy storage device to circuitry included on the band coupled to the housing of the wearable computing device; obtaining, via the processor, from the circuit on the band, data indicative of a unique identifier of the band; as well as Operation of the wearable computing device is controlled, via the processor, based at least in part on the unique identifier of the band.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising: determining, via a processor of the wearable computing device, that the wearable computing device is not being worn by a user; as well as In response to determining that the wearable computing device is not being worn by the user, the switching device of the wearable computing device is controlled to electrically couple the energy storage device of the wearable computing device to the energy interface of the wearable computing device to transfer electrical energy from the energy storage device to the circuit included on the band coupled to the housing of the wearable computing device.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein: Determining that the wearable computing device is not being worn by the user includes: obtaining data from one or more sensors of the wearable computing device; and A determination is made based at least in part on the data from the one or more sensors that the band is coupled to the housing of the wearable computing device.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein: The one or more sensors include a heart rate sensor or a motion sensor.

17. The method of claim 13, wherein: Obtaining the unique identifier of the band includes obtaining, via the processor, the unique identifier from the circuitry on the band via the energy interface.

18. The method of claim 13, further comprising: Operation of the switching device is controlled in response to obtaining the data indicative of the unique identifier of the strip to electrically decouple the energy storage device from the energy interface to cease transfer of electrical energy from the energy storage device to the circuitry included on the strip.

19. The method of claim 13, wherein: Controlling the operation of the wearable computing device includes controlling, via the processor, the operation of an electronic output device of the wearable computing device.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein: The electronic output device includes a display screen; The unique identifier indicates the color of the band; and Controlling the operation of the display screen includes adjusting a color of at least a portion of the display screen based at least in part on the color of the band.

Images