Wearable device
By designing multiple antenna slot structures of appropriate width in the appearance and structural layers of the smartwatch frame component, the problem of the seamless structure of the metal casing affecting antenna performance is solved, achieving good multi-band antenna performance and appearance.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-09-29
- Publication Date
- 2026-03-31
AI Technical Summary
The seamless metal casing design of smartwatches affects the performance of multi-band antennas, fails to meet the requirements of highly complex antennas, and has an unsatisfactory appearance.
The design employs a panel assembly, a mid-frame assembly, and a bottom shell assembly. The mid-frame assembly includes an appearance layer and a structural layer. The appearance layer is a metal appearance layer, and the structural layer is an insulating structural layer. Multiple antenna slot structures are set, and the slot width is appropriately segmented to optimize antenna performance and appearance.
It improves the performance and appearance of the smartwatch's multi-band antenna, ensuring that the antenna is not interfered with by internal metal components, thus enhancing the device's communication quality and aesthetics.
Smart Images

Figure CN121769482A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of terminal devices, and more specifically, to a wearable device. Background Technology
[0002] With the continuous development of wearable devices (such as smartwatches), these devices are becoming increasingly popular among users due to their portability and intelligence. However, improving the antenna performance of wearable devices, especially smartwatches, which are capable of making smart calls, has always been a challenge for the industry.
[0003] In related technologies, smartwatches typically use metal cases, which also serve as the antenna structure. However, to achieve a seamless appearance, the metal case is usually designed as a seamless structure. But this seamless design can negatively impact the performance of multi-band antennas. Therefore, to meet the higher and more complex antenna requirements, smartwatches need to divide the metal case into multiple segments, a common practice in traditional mobile phones where the slits are relatively wide. This wide slit design is clearly unsuitable for the more aesthetically pleasing smartwatch market.
[0004] Therefore, there is a need to provide a smartwatch that meets both antenna requirements and appearance requirements. Summary of the Invention
[0005] This application provides a wearable device (such as a smartwatch) that has good multi-band antenna performance and a good appearance.
[0006] In a first aspect, a wearable device is provided, comprising a panel assembly, a mid-frame assembly, a bottom shell assembly, and a crown assembly, wherein: the panel assembly and the bottom shell assembly are respectively disposed at the top and bottom ends of the mid-frame assembly, and a receiving cavity for accommodating electronic devices is formed between the panel assembly, the mid-frame assembly, and the bottom shell assembly; the crown assembly is mounted on the mid-frame assembly; the mid-frame assembly comprises an outer layer and a structural layer, the structural layer being nested within the outer layer, the outer layer being a metal outer layer, and the structural layer being an insulating structural layer; along the thickness direction of the wearable device, the outer layer is provided with a plurality of antenna slot structures, and a portion of the structural layer passes through and is exposed through the plurality of antenna slot structures; the plurality of antenna slot structures includes a first slot structure and a second slot structure, the opening width of the first slot structure being between 0.1 mm and 0.3 mm, the opening width of the second slot structure being between 0.8 mm and 1.5 mm, and the second slot structure being located at the mounting position of the crown assembly.
[0007] For example, the first gap structure may also be referred to as a micro-gap structure in this application. The opening width of the micro-gap structure is between 0.1mm and 0.3mm, and the opening width of the micro-gap structure can be, for example, 0.1mm, 0.2mm, or 0.3mm. The second gap structure may also be referred to as a fusion joint structure in this application. The opening width of the fusion joint structure is between 0.8mm and 1.5mm, and the opening width of the fusion joint structure can be, for example, 0.8mm, 0.9mm, 1mm, 1.1mm, 1.2mm, 1.3mm, 1.4mm, or 1.5mm.
[0008] For example, the cavity formed between the panel assembly, the mid-frame assembly, and the bottom shell assembly can accommodate a battery assembly and a control assembly. The battery assembly can be used to provide electrical power to parts of the panel assembly and the control assembly, and the control assembly can be used to control the wearable device to perform its various functions.
[0009] The wearable device provided in this application embodiment may include a smartwatch or smart bracelet, etc. The outer layer of the wearable device may be a metal outer layer, and the structural layer of the wearable device may be an insulating structural layer, so that the outer layer can serve as an antenna radiator of the wearable device. By setting the outer layer as a metal outer layer and the structural layer as an insulating structural layer, the appearance and texture of the mid-frame assembly can be guaranteed to be good. By setting the structural layer on the inner wall of the outer layer, the metal outer layer and the metal components in the cavity of the wearable device can be isolated, so as to meet the antenna clearance requirements when the outer layer serves as an antenna radiator, thereby reducing the impact of the metal components in the cavity on the antenna performance and improving the antenna performance of the wearable device.
[0010] In addition, multiple slot structures can be opened on the outer layer of the mid-frame component of the wearable device to segment the outer layer. This allows the outer layer (antenna radiator) to carry different signal frequency bands of different devices (e.g., GPS, Bluetooth, WIFI, 4G, etc.), thereby optimizing the communication quality of the wearable device.
[0011] In addition, the second slit structure with a larger opening width can be set at the installation position of the crown component. The crown component can be used to cover the second slit structure, so that the second slit structure will not be directly exposed to the user. The first slit structure with a smaller opening width can be exposed and can be designed with different appearance colors, so that the wearable device has a better appearance effect.
[0012] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the width between adjacent first slit structures is between 0.8 mm and 1.5 mm.
[0013] For example, the width between adjacent microslit structures (i.e. the width of the metal parts between adjacent microslit structures) is 0.8 mm, 0.9 mm, 1 mm, 1.1 mm, 1.2 mm, 1.3 mm, 1.4 mm, and 1.5 mm.
[0014] In this embodiment, the spacing between adjacent first gap structures can meet the radiation requirements of different signal frequency bands of different devices (e.g., GPS, Bluetooth, WIFI, 4G, etc.), thus avoiding affecting the communication quality of wearable devices.
[0015] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the side of the middle frame component is provided with an mounting hole for mounting the crown component, and the mounting hole communicates with the second gap structure.
[0016] In this embodiment, the second gap structure can be integrated with the mounting hole for installing the crown assembly, meaning the mounting hole can communicate with the second gap structure. In other words, the mounting hole can be opened up along one or both sides of the central axis of the frame assembly to form the second gap structure, which simplifies the manufacturing process.
[0017] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, a decorative seam structure is further provided on the outer layer along the thickness direction of the wearable device. The decorative seam structure is located on the surface of the outer layer and passes through a portion of the outer layer. The opening width of the decorative seam structure is equal to the opening width of the first gap structure.
[0018] For example, the opening width of the decorative seam structure is equal to the opening width of the first gap structure, such as being between 0.1mm and 0.3mm. For instance, the opening width of the decorative seam structure can be 0.1mm, 0.2mm, or 0.3mm.
[0019] In this embodiment, the decorative seam structure can be formed on the outer surface of the outer layer and is a non-through seam, that is, the decorative seam structure can pass through part of the outer layer, rather than through the entire outer layer. In other words, a groove can be made on the surface of the outer layer to form a decorative seam structure with an appearance similar to a through seam structure, thereby increasing the aesthetic appearance of the wearable device.
[0020] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the decorative seam structure is disposed between adjacent first gap structures.
[0021] For example, if a wearable device has two first slit structures, the decorative slit structure can be located between the two first slit structures, and the distance between the decorative slit structure and the two first slit structures is equal, thereby increasing the aesthetic appearance of the wearable device.
[0022] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the decorative seam structure is disposed on one side of the first gap structure, and the width between the decorative seam structure and the adjacent first gap structure is equal to the width between the adjacent first gap structures.
[0023] For example, a wearable device may include a plurality of first slit structures, and a decorative slit structure may be disposed on one side of the plurality of first slit structures and may be symmetrically disposed among the other first slit structures, thereby further enhancing the aesthetic appearance of the wearable device.
[0024] For example, the width between the decorative seam structure and the adjacent first gap structure is equal to the width between the adjacent first gap structures, such as being between 0.8mm and 1.5mm. For instance, the width between the decorative seam structure and the adjacent first gap structure can be 0.8mm, 0.9mm, 1mm, 1.1mm, 1.2mm, 1.3mm, 1.4mm, or 1.5mm.
[0025] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, a connecting portion extending into the cavity is provided on the inner wall of the outer layer; a mounting portion cooperating with the connecting portion is provided on the structural layer, one end of the connecting portion passing through the mounting portion and the other end being exposed outside the mounting portion.
[0026] In this embodiment, a connecting part may be provided on the inner wall of the outer layer of the middle frame assembly, and a mounting part that cooperates with the connecting part may be provided on the structural layer of the middle frame assembly. Thus, the connection stability between the outer layer and the structural layer can be increased by using the connecting part and the mounting part together.
[0027] In one possible implementation, on the side of the connecting portion exposed outside the mounting portion, a first groove is provided between a portion of the connecting portion and the mounting portion; a first sealing member is provided in the first groove, the first sealing member is sealed to the first groove, and a second waterproof interface is formed between the first sealing member and the first groove.
[0028] By setting a first groove and a first sealing element inside the first groove, a second waterproof interface is formed between the connection surface of the first sealing element and the first groove. This prevents water and other liquids from breaking through the first waterproof interface and then entering the device body through the second waterproof interface, thereby increasing the waterproof performance of electronic devices.
[0029] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the connecting portion includes a first connecting segment and a second connecting segment, one end of the first connecting segment being connected to the inner wall of the outer layer, and the other end of the first connecting segment extending into the interior of the outer layer; one end of the second connecting segment being connected to the end of the first connecting segment away from the outer layer, and the other end of the second connecting segment extending away from the first connecting segment along the thickness direction of the wearable device.
[0030] In this embodiment, by configuring the connecting part into a structure including a first connecting segment and a second connecting segment, and by arranging the first connecting segment and the second connecting segment in different directions, it is possible to facilitate assembly with the circuit board of a wearable device, reduce assembly difficulty, and improve assembly stability.
[0031] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the outer layer further includes a plurality of adhesive-bonded structures located on one or both sides of the at least one antenna slot structure, the adhesive-bonded structures being used to increase the bonding force between the outer layer and the structural layer.
[0032] In this embodiment, by setting multiple adhesive-stretching structures, the deformation of the outer layer and structural layer during nano-injection molding (NMT) can be reduced. Furthermore, the contact path between the outer layer and structural layer in the thickness direction of the mid-frame assembly can be extended, thus lengthening the waterproof path between the outer layer and structural layer and improving the waterproof performance of the mid-frame assembly.
[0033] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the plurality of adhesive-stretching structures includes a first adhesive-stretching structure located on the first connecting segment.
[0034] In this embodiment, the first adhesive-pulling structure can be disposed on the first connecting segment of the connecting part of the outer layer. That is, the first adhesive-pulling structure can be disposed on the first connecting segment by utilizing the space on the first connecting segment, which can save the space of the receiving cavity and increase the bonding force between the outer layer and the structural layer.
[0035] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, an extension is further provided on the inner wall of the outer layer, the extension can extend along the outer layer into the interior of the receiving cavity, and one end of the extension is connected to the inner wall of the outer layer; the plurality of adhesive-pulling structures further include a second adhesive-pulling structure, the second adhesive-pulling structure being located on the extension.
[0036] For example, the extension may be located between two adjacent first slit structures.
[0037] In this embodiment of the application, considering the limitations of the location of the connecting part, such as the absence of a connecting part between the two first gap structures, the second adhesive-bonding structure can also be set on the extension on the inner wall of the outer layer. The extension can be directly fixedly connected to the outer layer, so that part of the material of the structural layer can enter the second adhesive-bonding structure, and the outer layer and the structural layer can be combined together, thereby effectively preventing the structural layer from falling off the outer layer and increasing the stability of the connection between the outer layer and the structural layer.
[0038] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the other end of the extension is connected to the first connecting segment of the connecting portion.
[0039] In this embodiment of the application, considering the design shape limitations of the connecting part, the connecting part and the inner wall of the outer layer can be connected by an extension. A corresponding adhesive-pulling structure can be provided on the extension, which can effectively prevent the structural layer from falling off the outer layer and help increase the connection stability between the outer layer and the structural layer.
[0040] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, both the first adhesive-pulling structure and the second adhesive-pulling structure are blind-hole adhesive-pulling structures, with the openings of the blind-hole adhesive-pulling structure facing the receiving cavity.
[0041] In this embodiment, by setting both the first and second adhesive-pulling structures as blind-hole adhesive-pulling structures, the injection molding material of the structural layer can enter the blind hole, allowing the outer layer and the structural layer to be firmly bonded together. This effectively prevents the structural layer from falling off the outer layer and helps to increase the stability of the connection between the outer layer and the structural layer.
[0042] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the plurality of adhesive-pulling structures further include a third adhesive-pulling structure, which is a blind-hole adhesive-pulling structure, and the third adhesive-pulling structure is disposed on the inner wall of the outer surface layer along the wall thickness direction of the outer surface layer.
[0043] In this embodiment of the application, in order to further enhance the connection stability between the appearance layer and the structural layer, a third adhesive-pulling structure can also be provided. The third adhesive-pulling structure can be provided on the inner wall of the appearance layer along the wall thickness direction, so that the injection molding material of the structural layer can enter the blind hole, so that the appearance layer and the structural layer can be strongly bonded together.
[0044] For example, the third adhesive-ply structure can be inclined upwards or downwards along the thickness direction (z-direction) of the wearable device. By setting such an inclined third adhesive-ply structure along the z-direction, when the structural layer is injected onto the inner wall of the outer layer, the injection material enters these adhesive-ply structures and forms an undercut structure within the inclined blind hole structure. The inner wall of the third adhesive-ply structure exerts a blocking force on the injection material entering the hole in the z-direction, thereby effectively preventing the structural layer from detaching from the outer layer and increasing the stability of the connection between the outer layer and the structural layer.
[0045] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the inner wall of the outer layer is further provided with an inwardly protruding boss, and the plurality of adhesive-pulling structures further include a fourth adhesive-pulling structure, which is disposed on the boss along the thickness direction of the wearable device.
[0046] In this embodiment of the application, in order to further enhance the connection stability between the appearance layer and the structural layer, a fourth adhesive-pulling structure can also be provided. The fourth adhesive-pulling structure can be provided on the protrusion on the inner wall of the appearance layer, so that the injection molding material of the structural layer can enter the fourth adhesive-pulling structure, so that the appearance layer and the structural layer can be strongly bonded together.
[0047] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the plurality of adhesive-pulling structures further include a fifth adhesive-pulling structure, which is a groove structure provided along the inner wall of the outer surface layer.
[0048] For example, the groove structure can be set along the thickness direction of the outer layer.
[0049] In this embodiment of the application, in order to further enhance the connection stability between the appearance layer and the structural layer, a grooved adhesive-pull structure can be provided on the inner wall of the appearance layer, which can effectively prevent the structural layer from falling off the appearance layer and help increase the connection stability between the appearance layer and the structural layer.
[0050] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the structural layer is formed on the inner wall of the outer layer by nano-injection molding.
[0051] In this embodiment, by nano-injection molding the structural layer onto the inner wall of the outer layer, a dense waterproof path can be formed between the structural layer and the outer layer, thereby improving the waterproof characteristics of the wearable device. By nano-injection molding the structural layer onto the outer layer, the waterproof interface at the junction of the outer layer and the structural layer can be minimized, simplifying the process and improving waterproof performance.
[0052] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the outer layer is formed by forging, casting or die casting.
[0053] In this embodiment, by directly die-casting the outer layer and then directly injection molding the structural layer onto the inner wall of the outer layer using NMT injection molding, not only can the outer layer and the structural layer be fixedly connected, but also a portion of the structure of the outer layer can be embedded into the structural layer, thereby improving the strength of the connection between the outer layer and the structural layer. By forging, casting, or die-casting the outer layer, the time required for computer-controlled precision machining (CNC) can be significantly reduced, thereby greatly reducing processing costs.
[0054] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the outer layer includes an antenna radiator of the wearable device; the structural layer is located between the antenna radiator and the receiving cavity, and the structural layer is used to provide antenna clearance for the antenna radiator.
[0055] In this embodiment, by placing the structural layer between the outer layer and the housing cavity, a clearance is provided for the antenna, thereby preventing interference from the metal components inside the wearable device.
[0056] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the aforementioned wearable device may be a smartwatch or a smart bracelet.
[0057] Secondly, a mid-frame assembly is provided for use in a wearable device, the wearable device including a crown assembly. The mid-frame assembly includes an outer layer and a structural layer, the structural layer being nested within the outer layer. The outer layer is a metal outer layer, and the structural layer is an insulating structural layer. Along the thickness direction of the wearable device, the outer layer is provided with multiple antenna slot structures, and a portion of the structural layer passes through and is exposed through the multiple antenna slot structures. The multiple antenna slot structures include a first slot structure and a second slot structure. The opening width of the first slot structure is between 0.1 mm and 0.3 mm, and the opening width of the second slot structure is between 0.8 mm and 1.5 mm. The second slot structure is located at the mounting position of the crown assembly.
[0058] The mid-frame assembly provided in this application embodiment can have multiple slot structures on its outer layer, segmenting the outer layer. This allows the outer layer (antenna radiator) to carry different signal frequency bands from different devices (e.g., GPS, Bluetooth, WIFI, 4G, etc.), thereby optimizing the communication quality of the wearable device. Furthermore, a second slot structure with a larger opening width can be positioned at the crown assembly's mounting location, allowing the crown assembly to conceal the second slot structure from direct user observation. The first slot structure with a smaller opening width can be exposed and can be designed with different exterior colors, resulting in a better aesthetic appearance for the wearable device.
[0059] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the width between adjacent first slit structures is between 0.8 mm and 1.5 mm.
[0060] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the side of the middle frame assembly is provided with an mounting hole for mounting the crown assembly, and the mounting hole communicates with the second gap structure.
[0061] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, a decorative seam structure is further provided on the outer layer along the thickness direction of the wearable device. The decorative seam structure is located on the surface of the outer layer and passes through a portion of the outer layer. The opening width of the decorative seam structure is equal to the opening width of the first gap structure.
[0062] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the decorative seam structure is disposed between adjacent first gap structures.
[0063] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the decorative seam structure is disposed on one side of the first gap structure, and the width between the decorative seam structure and the adjacent first gap structure is equal to the width between the adjacent first gap structures.
[0064] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, a connecting portion extending into the interior of the middle frame assembly is provided on the inner wall of the outer layer; a mounting portion cooperating with the connecting portion is provided on the structural layer, with one end of the connecting portion passing through the mounting portion and the other end exposed outside the mounting portion.
[0065] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the connecting portion includes a first connecting segment and a second connecting segment, one end of the first connecting segment being connected to the inner wall of the outer layer, and the other end of the first connecting segment extending into the interior of the outer layer; one end of the second connecting segment being connected to the end of the first connecting segment away from the outer layer, and the other end of the second connecting segment extending away from the first connecting segment along the thickness direction of the wearable device.
[0066] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the outer layer further includes a plurality of adhesive-bonded structures located on one or both sides of the at least one antenna slot structure, the adhesive-bonded structures being used to increase the bonding force between the outer layer and the structural layer.
[0067] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the plurality of adhesive-stretching structures includes a first adhesive-stretching structure located on the first connecting segment.
[0068] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, an extension is further provided on the inner wall of the outer layer, the extension can extend along the outer layer into the interior of the middle frame assembly, and one end of the extension is connected to the inner wall of the outer layer; the plurality of adhesive-pulling structures further include a second adhesive-pulling structure, the second adhesive-pulling structure being located on the extension.
[0069] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the other end of the extension is connected to the first connecting segment of the connecting portion.
[0070] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, both the first adhesive-pulling structure and the second adhesive-pulling structure are blind-hole adhesive-pulling structures.
[0071] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the plurality of adhesive-pulling structures further include a third adhesive-pulling structure, which is a blind-hole adhesive-pulling structure, and the third adhesive-pulling structure is disposed on the inner wall of the outer surface layer along the wall thickness direction of the outer surface layer.
[0072] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, an inwardly protruding boss is also provided on the inner wall of the outer layer, and the plurality of adhesive-pulling structures further include a fourth adhesive-pulling structure, which is disposed on the boss along the thickness direction of the wearable device.
[0073] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the plurality of adhesive-pulling structures further include a fifth adhesive-pulling structure, which is a groove structure provided along the inner wall of the outer surface layer.
[0074] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the structural layer is formed on the inner wall of the outer layer by nano-injection molding.
[0075] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the outer layer is formed by forging, casting, or die casting.
[0076] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the outer layer includes an antenna radiator of the wearable device; the structural layer is located between the antenna radiator and the receiving cavity, and the structural layer is used to provide antenna clearance for the antenna radiator.
[0077] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the aforementioned mid-frame component can be applied to smartwatches or smart bracelets.
[0078] It should be noted that the beneficial effects of the second aspect can be referred to the description in the first aspect, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description
[0079] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the wearable device provided in the embodiments of this application.
[0080] Figure 2 This is an exploded structural diagram of the main body of the wearable device provided in the embodiments of this application.
[0081] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the mid-frame component of the wearable device provided in the embodiments of this application.
[0082] Figure 4 This is a structural schematic diagram of the mid-frame assembly of the wearable device provided in the embodiments of this application from another angle.
[0083] Figure 5 This is an exploded structural diagram of the mid-frame assembly of the wearable device provided in the embodiments of this application.
[0084] Figure 6 This is a partial structural diagram of the mid-frame component of the wearable device provided in the embodiments of this application.
[0085] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the appearance layer of the mid-frame component of the wearable device provided in the embodiments of this application.
[0086] Figure 8 This is a structural schematic diagram of the appearance layer of the mid-frame component of the wearable device provided in this application embodiment from another angle.
[0087] Figure 9 This is a structural schematic diagram of the appearance layer of the mid-frame component of the wearable device provided in this application embodiment from another angle.
[0088] Figure 10 This is a partial structural diagram of the appearance layer of the mid-frame component of the wearable device provided in the embodiments of this application.
[0089] Figure 11 This is another structural schematic diagram of the appearance layer of the mid-frame component of the wearable device provided in the embodiments of this application.
[0090] Figure 12 This is another structural schematic diagram of the appearance layer of the mid-frame component of the wearable device provided in the embodiments of this application.
[0091] Figure 13 This is a structural diagram of the mid-frame component of the wearable device provided in the embodiments of this application.
[0092] Figure 14 This is a structural schematic diagram of the mid-frame component of the wearable device provided in this application embodiment from another angle.
[0093] Figures 15 to 19This is a schematic diagram of the processing of the appearance layer and structural layer of the mid-frame component of the wearable device provided in the embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation
[0094] The embodiments of this application are described in detail below, and examples of these embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain this application, and should not be construed as limiting this application.
[0095] Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used herein shall have the ordinary meaning as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains. In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms “upper,” “lower,” “front,” “rear,” “left,” “right,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” “top,” “bottom,” “inner,” and “outer,” etc., indicating orientation or positional relationships based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, are used only for the convenience of describing this application and for simplification, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.
[0096] In the embodiments of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Therefore, features defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more features. Furthermore, in the description of the embodiments of this application, "multiple" refers to two or more, and "at least one" and "one or more" refer to one, two, or more. The singular expressions "a," "an," "the," "the," "this," and "this" are intended to also include expressions such as "one or more," unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise. The sequence numbers of the processes below do not imply a sequential order of execution; the execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of this application.
[0097] References to "one embodiment" or "some embodiments" in the embodiments described in this application mean that one or more embodiments of this application include a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment. Therefore, the phrases "in one embodiment," "in some embodiments," "in other embodiments," "in still other embodiments," etc., appearing in different parts of this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, but rather mean "one or more, but not all, embodiments," unless otherwise specifically emphasized. The terms "comprising," "including," "having," and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to," unless otherwise specifically emphasized.
[0098] In the embodiments of this application, "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.
[0099] With the continuous development of wearable devices (such as smartwatches), these devices are becoming increasingly popular among users due to their portability and intelligence. However, improving the antenna performance of wearable devices, especially smartwatches, which are capable of making smart calls, has always been a challenge for the industry.
[0100] In related technologies, smartwatches typically use metal cases, which also serve as the antenna structure. However, to achieve a seamless appearance, the metal case is usually designed as a seamless structure. But this seamless design can negatively impact the performance of multi-band antennas. Therefore, to meet the higher and more complex antenna requirements, smartwatches need to divide the metal case into multiple segments, a common practice in traditional mobile phones where the slits are relatively wide. This wide slit design is clearly unsuitable for the more aesthetically pleasing smartwatch market.
[0101] Based on this, this application provides a wearable device that has good multi-band antenna performance and a good appearance.
[0102] It should be noted that the wearable devices provided in this application embodiment may include wrist-worn devices such as smart bracelets and smartwatches, and may even include smart wearable devices worn on other parts of the body such as the ankle or neck. It should be understood that the "smartwatch" in this application embodiment is not limited to a "watch," but may also be other electronic devices, such as other smart wearable devices.
[0103] It should be understood that the embodiments of this application will be described using a smartwatch as an example of a wearable device. The smartwatch provided in this application has good multi-band antenna performance, and the antenna slot width is small, which makes the smartwatch have a better appearance.
[0104] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a wearable device provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 This is an exploded structural diagram of the main body of the wearable device provided in the embodiments of this application.
[0105] See Figure 1 and Figure 2 The wearable device 10 may include a device body 1000 and a watch strap 2000. The watch strap 2000 is rotatably disposed at both ends of the device body 1000 for easy wearing. Figure 1 Only a portion of the structure of the watch strap 2000 is shown in this embodiment; the shape of the watch strap 2000 is not further limited in this application.
[0106] like Figure 2 As shown, the main body 1000 of the device may include a panel assembly 100, a mid-frame assembly 200, a battery assembly 300, a control assembly 400, and a bottom shell assembly 500. The panel assembly 100 and the bottom shell assembly 500 are respectively disposed at the top and bottom ends of the mid-frame assembly 200, forming a receiving cavity 600 between the panel assembly 100, the mid-frame assembly 200, and the bottom shell assembly 500. This receiving cavity 600 can be used to accommodate various electronic components, such as the battery assembly 300 and the control assembly 400. The battery assembly 300 can provide power to parts of the panel assembly 100 and the control assembly 400, and the control assembly 400 can control the wearable device 10 to achieve its various functions.
[0107] The panel assembly 100 may include a display panel 110 and a top ring 120, wherein the top ring 120 may be sealed to one end of the middle frame assembly 200 near the panel assembly 100, and the top ring 120 is sealed to the display panel 110. The control assembly 400 includes at least a circuit board 410, which is fixedly mounted on the middle frame assembly 200. A portion of the structure of the middle frame assembly 200 may be an antenna radiator, and the circuit board 410 is electrically connected to the antenna radiator on the middle frame assembly 200 to enable signal conduction by the antenna radiator. The battery assembly 300 may include a battery body 310 and a battery bracket 320, and the battery body 310 may be fixedly connected to the middle frame assembly 200 via the battery bracket 320.
[0108] By fixing the panel assembly 100 to the mid-frame assembly 200, fixing the bottom shell assembly 500 to the mid-frame assembly 200, and sealing the panel assembly 100 and the bottom shell assembly 500 to the mid-frame assembly 200, the waterproof performance of the wearable device 10 can be improved.
[0109] In this embodiment, the methods of fixing and sealing between the panel assembly 100, the bottom shell assembly 500, and the middle frame assembly 200 are not further limited. For example, the panel assembly 100, the bottom shell assembly 500, and the middle frame assembly 200 can be fixedly connected by fasteners (such as screws), interference fits, or snap-fit connections. The panel assembly 100, the bottom shell assembly 500, and the middle frame assembly 200 can be sealed by interference fits, sealing rings, or sealant. The connection methods between the panel assembly 100 and the middle frame assembly 200, and between the bottom shell assembly 500 and the middle frame assembly 200, are not further limited in this embodiment.
[0110] In some embodiments, one or more crown components 3000 may be provided on the side of the device body 1000 (such as the side of the mid-frame assembly 200), wherein the crown component 3000 can be used to adjust the mode of the wearable device 10, etc. Exemplarily, the crown component 3000 is movably disposed on the outside of the mid-frame assembly 200, and some structures in the crown component 3000 can rotate or slide relative to the mid-frame assembly 200, etc. In this embodiment, the connection relationship between the crown component 3000 and the mid-frame assembly 200, and the connection relationship between the crown component 3000 and the control component 400, are not further limited, as long as they can be disposed on the wearable device 10 and used to adjust the function of the wearable device 10. Furthermore, the external shape of the crown component 3000 is not further limited, as long as it can realize its function.
[0111] The mid-frame assembly 200 of the wearable device 10 will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0112] For ease of description, in this embodiment, the side of the wearable device 10's main body 1000 where the panel assembly 100 is disposed is considered the front of the wearable device 10, the main body 1000, and the mid-frame assembly 200; the side of the wearable device 10's main body 1000 where the bottom shell assembly 500 is disposed is considered the back of the wearable device 10, the main body 1000, and the mid-frame assembly 200. The side of the mid-frame assembly 200 facing the central axis of the main body 1000 is considered the inner side of the mid-frame assembly 200, and the side of the mid-frame assembly 200 away from the central axis of the main body 1000 is considered the outer side of the mid-frame assembly 200.
[0113] In the diagram, the z-direction represents the thickness direction of the wearable device 10, and also the direction of the central axis of the wearable device 10 or the mid-frame assembly 200. The x-direction represents the direction in which the wearable device 10 connects to the watch strap 2000. The y-direction represents the direction perpendicular to both the x- and z-directions.
[0114] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the mid-frame component 200 of the wearable device 10 provided in this application embodiment. Figure 4 This is a structural schematic diagram of the mid-frame assembly 200 of the wearable device 10 provided in this application embodiment from another angle. Figure 5 This is an exploded structural diagram of the mid-frame assembly 200 of the wearable device 10 provided in this application embodiment. Figure 6 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the mid-frame assembly 200 of the wearable device 10 provided in this application embodiment. Wherein, Figure 3 This is a structural diagram of the front of the mid-frame component 200. Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 These are all structural diagrams of the back of the mid-frame component 200.
[0115] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the mid-frame assembly 200 may include an outer layer 210 and a structural layer 220. The outer layer 210 is located on the outer side of the mid-frame assembly 200, and the structural layer 220 is located on the inner side of the mid-frame assembly 200. The outer layer 210 and the structural layer 220 are fixedly connected. For example, at least the inner wall of the outer layer 210 and the outer wall of the structural layer 220 are fixedly connected. The inner walls of both the outer layer 210 and the structural layer 220 face the inner side of the mid-frame assembly 200, and the outer walls of both the outer layer 210 and the structural layer 220 face the outer side of the mid-frame assembly 200. The outer side or outer wall of the outer layer 210 can be observed by the user.
[0116] In some embodiments, the outer layer 210 can be a metallic outer layer, and the structural layer 220 can be an insulating structural layer. Exemplarily, the outer layer 210 can be processed by forging, casting, or die casting, while the structural layer 220 can be directly molded onto the inner wall of the outer layer 210 using nano-molding technology (NMT), thereby forming a sealed first waterproof interface between the outer layer 210 and the structural layer 220, improving the waterproof performance of the wearable device 10. By directly die-casting the outer layer 210 and then directly injection molding the structural layer 220 onto the inner wall of the outer layer 210 using NMT, not only can the outer layer 210 and the structural layer 220 be fixedly connected, but also a portion of the structure of the outer layer 210 can be embedded into the structural layer 220, improving the strength of the connection between the outer layer 210 and the structural layer 220. Furthermore, it can significantly reduce the time required for computerized numerical control (CNC) machining, thereby substantially reducing processing costs.
[0117] In some embodiments, the material of the outer layer 210 can be a metallic material, including but not limited to amorphous alloys, stainless steel, titanium alloys, aluminum alloys, etc. The structural layer 220 can be composed of an insulating plastic polymer material, including but not limited to nylon, polyamide (PA), PA+glass fiber, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), etc. Of course, in other embodiments, the materials of the outer layer 210 and the structural layer 220 can also be other substances; the specific materials of the outer layer 210 and the structural layer 220 are not further limited in this embodiment.
[0118] Combination Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the mid-frame assembly 200 may further include a first seal 230 and a second seal 240; wherein the first seal 230 may be disposed between the outer layer 210 and the structural layer 220, and a first groove 2211 for accommodating the first seal 230 is formed between the outer layer 210 and the structural layer 220, and the first seal 230 may be disposed within the first groove 2211. The first seal 230 may be used to seal the connection between the structural layer 220 and the outer layer 210, and a second waterproof interface is formed between the connection surfaces of the first seal 230 and the first groove 2211 to prevent liquid from entering the receiving cavity of the device body 1000 from the gap at the connection between the outer layer 210 and the structural layer 220, thereby improving the waterproof performance of the wearable device 10.
[0119] The second seal 240 can be disposed at one end of the structural layer 220 near the bottom shell assembly 500. A second groove 222 for accommodating the second seal 240 is provided on the side of the structural layer 220 facing the bottom shell assembly 500, and the second seal 240 can be disposed within the second groove 222. The second seal 240 can be used to seal the connection between the middle frame assembly 200 and the bottom shell assembly 500, thereby enabling a sealed connection between the middle frame assembly 200 and the bottom shell assembly 500, and improving the waterproof performance between them.
[0120] In some embodiments, both the first sealing element 230 and the second sealing element 240 can be annular sealing rings formed by a dispensing process, or annular sealing ring structures made of materials such as plastic, rubber, or silicone. For example, the first sealing element 230 can be a rubber sealing ring, and the first sealing element 230 is interference-fitted with the first groove 2211. For instance, during connection, by controlling the pressure, the first sealing element 230 is pressed into the first groove 2211, thereby forming a second waterproof interface between the connecting surfaces of the first sealing element 230 and the first groove 2211.
[0121] By providing a first seal 230 between the connection portion 211 of the outer layer 210 and the mounting portion 221 of the structural layer 220, water and other liquids can be prevented from entering the containment cavity of the device body 1000 after passing through the first waterproof interface, thus preventing the normal operation of the device body 1000 from being affected and increasing the waterproof performance of the wearable device 10.
[0122] The second seal 240 can be an annular sealing ring formed by a dispensing process. For example, the second seal 240 can be... Figure 5 The annular sealing ring structure shown is provided, and the second seal 240 can be interference-fitted with the second groove 222.
[0123] In this embodiment, the material, shape and molding process of the first sealing element 230 and the second sealing element 240 are not further limited, as long as they can achieve their sealing function.
[0124] like Figure 5As shown, the outer layer 210 may include an annular wall-like structure 210a extending along the thickness direction (i.e., the z-direction) of the middle frame assembly 200. The side of the wall-like structure 210a facing the central axis of the middle frame assembly 200 is the inner wall of the outer layer 210, and the side of the wall-like structure 210a facing away from the central axis of the middle frame assembly 200 is the outer wall of the outer layer 210. Multiple mounting holes 213 for mounting the crown assembly 3000 or other accessories may be provided on the inner wall of the outer layer 210. These mounting holes 213 may be circular or rectangular through-hole structures; the specific shape, size, and location of these mounting holes 213 are not further limited.
[0125] In some embodiments, combined with Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the inner wall of the outer layer 210 is provided with at least one connecting portion 211 extending into the cavity 600. One end of the connecting portion 211 can be connected to the inner wall of the outer layer 210, and the other end extends into the outer layer 210. The structural layer 220 includes an annular wall 220a surrounding the inner wall of the outer layer 210. The structural layer 220 is provided with a mounting portion 221 that mates with the connecting portion 211. One end of the connecting portion 211 passes through the mounting portion 221, and the other end is exposed outside the mounting portion 221. The connecting portion 211 is fixedly connected to the mounting portion 221, and a portion of the structure of the connecting portion 211 can be exposed outside the mounting portion 221. A first groove 2211 for mounting a first sealing member 230 is formed between the connecting portion 211 and the mounting portion 221. The first sealing member 230 can be disposed in the first groove 2211.
[0126] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the outer layer 210 of the wearable device 10 provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the outer layer 210 of the wearable device 10 provided in this application embodiment from another angle. Figure 7 and Figure 8 These are all structural diagrams of the back of the mid-frame component 200.
[0127] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, a plurality of connecting portions 211 may be provided on the inner wall of the outer layer 210. These connecting portions 211 may be spaced apart around the central axis of the middle frame assembly 200. For example, they may be symmetrically arranged around the central axis of the middle frame assembly 200 on the inner wall of the outer layer 210, evenly arranged around the center of the central axis of the middle frame assembly 200, or unevenly arranged around the center of the central axis of the middle frame assembly 200. In this embodiment, the number and location of the connecting portions 211 are not further limited.
[0128] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, a plurality of slit structures 212 may be provided on the outer layer 210 along the z-direction. In some embodiments, the slit width of the slit structure 212 may be greater than or equal to 0.1 mm, and the distance between adjacent slit structures 212 may be greater than or equal to 0.8 mm. For example, the slit width of the slit structure 212 may be 0.2 mm, and the distance between adjacent slit structures 212 may be 1 mm.
[0129] In some embodiments, the slit structure 212 may include a through-slit structure and a false slit structure 212b (or decorative slit structure), wherein the through-slit structure may include multiple structures, and the false slit structure 212b may include at least one structure. It should be understood that the through-slit structure extends through the entire outer layer 210, and multiple through-slit structures form a break between each other, thereby segmenting the outer layer 210, for example, into two, three, four, or more segments; the false slit structure 212b is formed on the outer surface of the outer layer 210 and is a non-through-slit, meaning that the false slit structure 212b can pass through a portion of the outer layer 210, rather than through the entire outer layer 210. In other words, grooves can be cut into the surface of the outer layer 210 to form a slit structure with an appearance similar to the through-slit structure, thereby increasing aesthetics.
[0130] In some embodiments, the slit structure 212 may include a plurality of micro-slit structures 212a, wherein the micro-slit structure 212a is a type of through-slit structure, the opening width of the micro-slit structure 212a is between 0.1mm and 0.3mm, and the width between adjacent micro-slit structures 212a is between 0.8mm and 1.5mm. For example, the opening width of the micro-slit structure 212a may be 0.1mm, 0.2mm, or 0.3mm, and the distance between adjacent micro-slit structures 212a may be 0.8mm, 0.9mm, 1mm, 1.1mm, 1.2mm, 1.3mm, 1.4mm, or 1.5mm.
[0131] It should be understood that in some cases, smartwatches may not have a crown assembly 3000, thus preventing the crown assembly 3000 from concealing a wide gap structure. This would expose the gap structure 212 directly to the user. In such cases, directly placing a wide gap structure 212 on the smartwatch's outer layer 210 would negatively impact its aesthetics. Therefore, the aforementioned micro-slit structure can be used, with multiple micro-slit structures 212a replacing the wider gap structure. This allows for different color combinations, satisfying antenna requirements while enhancing the smartwatch's appearance. Furthermore, a dummy slit structure 212b can be added to the outer layer 210 to further improve the smartwatch's aesthetics.
[0132] For example, the slit width of the dummy slit structure 212b is equal to the slit width of the micro slit structure 212a, such as being between 0.1mm and 0.3mm. For instance, the slit width of the dummy slit structure 212b can be 0.1mm, 0.2mm, or 0.3mm.
[0133] In one example, the dummy slit structure 212b can be placed between adjacent micro slit structures 212a.
[0134] For example, if a wearable device is provided with two micro-slit structures 212a, then a dummy slit structure 212b can be located between the two micro-slit structures 212a, and the distance between the dummy slit structure 212b and the two micro-slit structures 212a is equal, thereby increasing the aesthetic appearance of the wearable device.
[0135] In another example, such as Figure 3 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the dummy seam structure 212b can be set on one side of the micro seam structure 212a, that is, the width between the dummy seam structure 212b and the adjacent micro seam structure 212a is equal to the width between the adjacent micro seam structures 212a.
[0136] For example, a wearable device may include multiple micro-slit structures 212a, and a dummy slit structure 212b may be disposed on one side of the multiple micro-slit structures 212a and may be symmetrically disposed between the micro-slit structures 212a, thereby further increasing the aesthetic appearance of the wearable device.
[0137] For example, the width between the dummy slit structure 212b and the adjacent micro slit structure 212a is equal to the width between two adjacent micro slit structures 212a, such as being between 0.8mm and 1.5mm. For example, the width between the dummy slit structure 212b and the adjacent micro slit structure 212a can be 0.8mm, 0.9mm, 1mm, 1.1mm, 1.2mm, 1.3mm, 1.4mm, or 1.5mm.
[0138] In some embodiments, the slot structure 212 may further include one or more fusion slot structures 212c, which are a type of through-slot structure. The fusion slot structure 212c may be located at the mounting position of the crown assembly 3000 on the mid-frame assembly 200. It should be understood that the fusion slot structure 212c may be fused with the mounting hole 213 for mounting the crown assembly 3000, that is, the mounting hole 213 may communicate with the fusion slot structure 212c. In other words, the mounting hole 213 can be opened along one or both sides of the central axis of the mid-frame assembly 200 to form the fusion slot structure 212c, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process.
[0139] It should be understood that, in some possible cases, a smartwatch may be equipped with one or more crown components 3000. In this case, the fusion seam structure 212c can be set with the mounting hole 213 of the crown component 3000. The crown component 3000 can also be used to cover the fusion seam structure 212c, so that the fusion seam structure 212c is not directly exposed and can not be observed by the user. This satisfies both the antenna requirements and the appearance requirements of the smartwatch.
[0140] For example, the opening width of the fusion joint structure 212c is between 0.8mm and 1.5mm. For instance, the opening width of the fusion joint structure 212c can be 0.8mm, 0.9mm, 1mm, 1.1mm, 1.2mm, 1.3mm, 1.4mm, or 1.5mm.
[0141] It should be noted that if the slit structure 212 is opened on the arc-shaped outer layer 210, the slit width or the width between adjacent slit structures is the width of a straight line, that is, the length of the arc chord.
[0142] It should be noted that by providing a slot structure 212 on the outer layer 210, the outer layer 210 can be segmented, for example, into one, two, three, four or more segments. This allows the antenna radiator (outer layer 210) to carry different signal frequency bands of different devices (e.g., global positioning system (GPS), Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WIFI), the 4th generation mobile communication technology (4G), etc.), thereby optimizing the communication quality of the wearable device 10.
[0143] This application does not limit the number of slot structures 212 on the outer layer 210. For example, there can be two, three, four or more. The specific number can be set according to the signal frequency band to be carried. No further limitation is made in the embodiments of this application.
[0144] For example, such as Figure 8As shown, the outer layer 210 has six slot structures 212, which are spaced apart on the outer layer 210. The six slot structures 212 may include two micro-slot structures 212a, one dummy slot structure 212b, and three fusion slot structures 212c. The two micro-slot structures 212a and one dummy slot structure 212b can be symmetrically arranged. The shape, appearance, and size of the dummy slot structure 212b are the same as those of the micro-slot structure 212a, thereby increasing aesthetics. The three fusion slot structures 212c can communicate with the mounting holes 213 of the crown assembly 3000. The crown assembly 3000 can cover the wider fusion slot structures 212c, further enhancing the aesthetics of the smartwatch. This divides the outer layer 210 into five segments, allowing it to support different signal frequency bands from different devices (e.g., GPS, Bluetooth, WIFI, 4G, etc.), thereby optimizing the communication quality of the wearable device 10.
[0145] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the outer layer 210 of the wearable device 10 provided in this application embodiment from another angle. Figures 10 to 12 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the outer layer 210 of the wearable device 10 provided in this embodiment of the application. Wherein, Figures 9 to 12 All are rear views of the outer layer 210.
[0146] like Figure 9 As shown, the connecting portion 211 may include a first connecting segment 2111 and a second connecting segment 2112; wherein, one end of the first connecting segment 2111 may be connected to the inner wall of the outer layer 210, and the other end extends toward the inner side of the middle frame assembly 200; one end of the second connecting segment 2112 is connected to the end of the first connecting segment 2111 away from the outer layer 210, and the other end extends away from the first connecting segment 2111 along a direction parallel to the central axis of the middle frame assembly 200.
[0147] In some embodiments, the first connecting segment 2111 of the connecting portion 211 may be perpendicular to the inner wall of the outer layer 210, and the second connecting segment 2112 may be perpendicular to the first connecting segment 2111. For example, the connecting portion 211 has an L-shaped structure and is perpendicular to the inner wall of the outer layer 210. By setting the connecting portion 211 at an angle to the inner wall of the outer layer 210, the stress between the first connecting segment 2111 and the inner wall of the outer layer 210 can be reduced, improving structural strength. Furthermore, the size of the connecting portion 211 can be reduced, saving costs.
[0148] Of course, in other embodiments, the first connecting segment 2111 and the inner wall of the outer layer 210 may be set at an angle to adapt to different assembly spaces. In this embodiment, the angle between the first connecting segment 2111 and the inner wall of the outer layer 210 is not further limited.
[0149] For example, the connecting part 211 may be located at one end of the outer layer 210 near the panel assembly 100. Of course, in other embodiments, the connecting part 211 may also be located at other positions. For example, the connecting part 211 may be located at one end of the outer layer 210 near the bottom shell assembly 500. The specific position of the connecting part 211 may be determined according to the installation position of the control component 400 in the device body 1000, and is not further limited here.
[0150] In some embodiments, the first connecting segment 2111 of the connecting portion 211 can be a fan-shaped structure or an arc-shaped structure, wherein the large end of the fan-shaped structure or arc-shaped structure is connected to the inner wall of the outer layer 210, and the small end of the fan-shaped structure or arc-shaped structure can be connected to the second connecting segment 2112. By setting the first connecting segment 2111 as a fan-shaped structure or an arc-shaped structure, the strength is greater than that of a rectangular structure with the same outer diameter as the second connecting segment 2112. By connecting the large end of the fan-shaped structure to the inner wall of the outer layer 210, the connection area between the connecting portion 211 and the outer layer 210 can be increased, thereby increasing the connection strength between the outer layer 210 and the first connecting segment 2111. When the structural layer 220 is injection molded onto the appearance layer 210, the connecting part 211 will deform under the action of mold gravity and injection pressure. By setting the first connecting section 2111 as a fan-shaped structure or an arc-shaped structure, the strength of the connecting part 211 can be improved, thereby reducing the deformation of the connecting part 211 during the injection molding process and improving the structural accuracy of the structural layer 220.
[0151] In some embodiments, the second connecting segment 2112 can be a hollow cylindrical structure. For example, the hollow cylindrical structure may have threads inside, which increases the connection stability of the connecting portion 211 during assembly. For example, the outer side of the second connecting segment 2112 can be a tapered cylindrical structure, facilitating demolding during processing. Of course, the second connecting segment 2112 can also be a solid cylindrical structure (see...). Figures 9 to 12 This application does not limit this.
[0152] It should be noted that the connecting part 211 can be integrally formed with the outer layer 210 by die casting. Of course, in other embodiments, it can also be connected to the outer layer 210 by welding or other methods. In this embodiment, the connection method between the connecting part 211 and the outer layer 210 is not further limited.
[0153] In some embodiments, the wall thickness of the outer layer 210 can be between 0.3mm and 0.5mm, for example, it can be 0.3mm, 0.4mm, 0.5mm, etc. Of course, in other embodiments, the wall thickness of the outer layer 210 can also be other values, for example, it can be 1mm, 2mm, etc. In the embodiments of this application, the wall thickness of the outer layer 210 is not limited.
[0154] It should be noted that because the outer layer 210 and the structural layer 220 are made of different materials, their coefficients of thermal expansion are different. Therefore, during NMT injection molding of the structural layer 220 and the outer layer 210, internal or external stresses may exist between them, potentially leading to cracking. This embodiment addresses this by providing a connecting portion 211 on the inner side of the outer layer 210. When the structural layer 220 is installed on the outer layer 210 via NMT injection molding, the connecting portion 211 is enclosed by the injection molding material (e.g., plastic) of the structural layer 220, forming an enclosed, pull-out structure. This facilitates mold forming, product pull-out, prevents cracking between the outer layer 210 and the structural layer 220, improves the structural strength of the mid-frame assembly 200, and enhances the waterproofing effect between the outer layer 210 and the structural layer 220.
[0155] In some embodiments, such as Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the first connecting segment 2111 of the connecting portion 211 may not be directly connected to the inner wall of the outer layer 210, but rather connected to the inner wall of the outer layer 210 through the extension 218. The outer layer 210 may include the extension 218, which may extend along the top of the outer layer 210 into the cavity 600. In some examples, one end of the extension 218 may be connected to the inner wall of the outer layer 210, and the other end of the extension 218 may be connected to the first connecting segment 2111 of the connecting portion 211. In some examples, one end of the extension 218 is connected to the inner wall of the outer layer 210, and the other end of the extension 218 may not be connected to the first connecting segment 2111 (see reference). Figure 10 ).
[0156] The outer layer 210 may include multiple adhesive-stretched structures, which may be located on one or both sides of at least one antenna slot structure. The adhesive-stretched structures are used to increase the bonding force between the outer layer 210 and the structural layer 220.
[0157] In some embodiments, such as Figure 9 , Figure 10 and Figure 11As shown, in order to increase the bonding force between the appearance layer 210 and the structural layer 220, a glue-pulling structure 214 can be provided on one or both sides of the gap structure 212. The glue-pulling structure 214 can be provided on the first connecting section 2111 of the connecting part 211, and / or, the glue-pulling structure 214 can be provided on the extension part 218.
[0158] It should be understood that the adhesive-stretching structure 214 can be a blind hole adhesive-stretching structure, with the opening of the blind hole facing the receiving cavity 600. The shape of the hole can be circular, elliptical, or other shapes (such as square, rectangle, etc.), and this application does not limit it in this regard.
[0159] By setting the adhesive pulling structure 214 as a blind hole adhesive pulling structure, the injection molding material of the structural layer 220 can enter the blind hole, so that the appearance layer 210 and the structural layer 220 can be firmly bonded together, thereby effectively preventing the structural layer 220 from falling off the appearance layer 210 and increasing the connection stability between the appearance layer 210 and the structural layer 220.
[0160] In some embodiments, such as Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, an adhesive-stretching structure 215 can also be provided on the inner wall of the outer layer 210. The adhesive-stretching structure 215 can be provided on both sides of the micro-slit structure 212. The adhesive-stretching structure 215 can be a blind-hole adhesive-stretching structure, and the adhesive-stretching structure 215 can be arranged along the thickness direction of the outer layer 210. For example, the adhesive-stretching structure 215 can be inclined upward or downward along the thickness direction (z direction) of the wearable device 10, or the adhesive-stretching structure 215 can be arranged perpendicular to the thickness direction (z direction) of the mid-frame assembly 200.
[0161] by Figure 10 The following example illustrates a design that is inclined upwards along the z-direction. By setting up such a z-direction-inclined adhesive-pulling structure 215, when the structural layer 220 is injection molded onto the inner wall of the outer layer 210, the injection material enters these adhesive-pulling structures 215 and forms an undercut structure within the inclined blind hole structure. In other words, the inner wall of the adhesive-pulling structure 215 exerts a blocking force on the injection material entering the hole in both the x and y directions, thereby effectively preventing the structural layer 220 from detaching from the outer layer 210 and increasing the stability of the connection between the outer layer 210 and the structural layer 220.
[0162] In this embodiment, the number of adhesive-stretching structures 215 can be three. Of course, in other embodiments, multiple structures can be set in other locations. Therefore, the location and number of adhesive-stretching structures 215 are not further limited. In some embodiments, the adhesive-stretching structure 215 can be formed by drilling or laser drilling, or it can be formed by other methods. In this embodiment, the forming method of the adhesive-stretching structure 215 is not further limited.
[0163] In some embodiments, such as Figures 9 to 12 As shown, a glue-pulling structure 216 can be provided on the inner wall of the outer layer 210. This glue-pulling structure 216 can be a blind-hole glue-pulling structure or a through-hole glue-pulling structure. For example, the glue-pulling structure 216 can be provided on an inwardly protruding boss on the inner wall of the outer layer 210, and the central axis of the through hole is set along the z-direction. In this way, when the structural layer 220 is injection molded onto the inner wall of the outer layer 210, the injection material will enter these blind-hole glue-pulling structures or through-hole glue-pulling structures, thereby increasing the connection area between the outer layer 210 and the structural layer 220, which is beneficial to increasing the connection stability between the outer layer 210 and the structural layer 220.
[0164] It should be understood that this application does not further limit the location or quantity of the adhesive-stretching structure 216. Furthermore, the adhesive-stretching structure 216 can be formed by laser drilling or by molding; the forming method of the adhesive-stretching structure 216 is not further limited.
[0165] In some embodiments, such as Figures 9 to 12 As shown, a glue-pulling structure 217 can be provided on the inner wall of the outer layer 210. This glue-pulling structure 217 can be a groove-type glue-pulling structure. For example, there can be multiple glue-pulling structures 217, and the shapes and sizes of the different fourth glue-pulling structures 217 can be the same or different. For instance, some glue-pulling structures 214 can be groove structures provided along the inner wall of the outer layer 210, and these groove structures can be provided along the thickness direction of the outer layer. For example, these groove structures can be provided on one or both sides of the mounting hole 213 along the central axis of the outer layer 210. Of course, they can also be provided in other positions. The location and number of groove structures are not further limited in this embodiment; they can be specifically set according to specific circumstances. When performing NMT injection molding on the structural layer 220, the groove structure can play a glue-pulling role, thereby reinforcing the outer layer 210 and the structural layer 220.
[0166] In this embodiment, by setting multiple adhesive-stretching structures, the deformation of the outer layer 210 and the structural layer 220 during NMT injection molding can be reduced. Furthermore, the contact path between the outer layer 210 and the structural layer 220 in the thickness direction of the mid-frame assembly 200 can be extended, thus lengthening the waterproof path between them and improving the waterproof performance of the mid-frame assembly 200.
[0167] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the structural layer 220 of the wearable device 10 provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 14 This is another structural schematic diagram of the structural layer 220 of the wearable device 10 provided in this application embodiment. Wherein, Figure 13 and Figure 14 These are all schematic diagrams of the back structure of structural layer 220.
[0168] like Figure 13 As shown, the structural layer 220 may include an annular wall 220a disposed along the thickness direction of the mid-frame assembly 200, wherein the side of the annular wall 220a facing the interior of the mid-frame assembly 200 is the inner wall of the structural layer 220, and the side of the annular wall 220a facing away from the interior of the mid-frame assembly 200 is the outer wall of the structural layer 220. For example, the inner wall of the structural layer 220 may be provided with a plurality of assembly structures 224, which are distributed circumferentially along the structural layer 220. The plurality of assembly structures 224 can be used to assemble with unused components of the bottom shell assembly 500, battery assembly 300, or control assembly 400, so that the battery assembly and control assembly 400 can be fixedly connected to the mid-frame assembly 200.
[0169] For example, the assembly structure 224 can be positioned corresponding to the crown assembly 3000, thereby facilitating the installation of the crown assembly 3000 and isolating the metal components within the structural layer 220 from the outer layer 210, thereby preventing the metal components located inside the structural layer 220 from affecting the antenna characteristics of the outer layer 210.
[0170] Since the structural layer 220 is made of insulating material, it can be used to isolate the outer layer 210 from the metal components in the battery assembly 300 and control assembly 400 located inside the middle frame assembly 200, so as to prevent the metal components in the wearable device 10 from affecting the performance of the antenna radiator. In other words, by setting the insulating structural layer 220, the clearance requirements of the antenna radiator can be met, thereby ensuring the performance of the antenna.
[0171] It should be noted that the specific shape and location of the multiple assembly structures 224 can be set according to the specific circumstances, and will not be further described in this embodiment. The figure only shows a portion of the assembly structures 224 on the inner wall of the structural layer 220. Since there are many assembly structures 224 on the inner wall of the structural layer 220 and they have different shapes, they are not labeled one by one.
[0172] In some embodiments, the mounting portion 221 may be disposed on the inner wall of the structural layer 220, wherein the number of mounting portions 221 corresponds to the number of connecting portions 211. That is, the number and position of the mounting portions 221 correspond to the connecting portions 211. In this embodiment, the number and position of the mounting portions 221 will not be described in detail.
[0173] like Figure 13 As shown, the mounting portion 221 may include a mounting cavity 2212 for accommodating the connecting portion 211, wherein the structure of the mounting cavity 2212 corresponds to that of the connecting portion 211. When the connecting portion 211 is installed in the mounting cavity 2212 of the mounting portion 221, a first groove 2211 may be formed between the mounting portion 221 and the connecting portion 211 (see Figure 2212). Figure 6 A first sealing element 230 can be provided in the first groove 2211. In this embodiment, the structure of the mounting cavity 2212 corresponds to the connecting part 211. That is, the structure of the mounting cavity 2212 is formed by NMT injection molding. Therefore, the structural shape of the mounting cavity 2212 matches the structural shape of the connecting part 211. Therefore, the structure of the mounting cavity 2212 will not be further described in this embodiment.
[0174] It should be understood that the structural layer 220 can be formed on the appearance layer 210 by NMT injection molding. For example, as shown... Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, a first gap filling structure 223a, a second gap filling structure 223b, and a third gap filling structure 223c can be formed on the outer wall of the structural layer 220. The first gap filling structure 223a is used to fill the micro gap structure 212a on the outer layer 210, the second gap filling structure 223b is used to fill the dummy gap structure 212b on the outer layer 210, and the third gap filling structure 223c is used to fill the fusion gap structure 212c.
[0175] For example, the outer wall of the structural layer 220 may also have a first filling structure (not shown in the figure) corresponding to the adhesive-stretching structure 214, a second filling structure 225 corresponding to the adhesive-stretching structure 215, a third filling structure 226 corresponding to the adhesive-stretching structure 216, and a fourth filling structure 227 corresponding to the adhesive-stretching structure 217.
[0176] It should be understood that other structures may be formed on the outer wall of the structural layer 220. These other structures may fill different structures on the outer layer 210. This application does not limit the type of such structure.
[0177] The mid-frame assembly 200 provided in this embodiment uses a metal material for the outer layer 210 and an insulating material for the structural layer 220. This allows the mid-frame assembly 200 to function as both an antenna radiator and to be assembled with the control component 400, battery component 300, etc., located within the wearable device 10. Furthermore, by providing a connecting portion 211 embedded in the structural layer 220 inside the outer layer 210, a position for electrical connection between the outer layer 210 and the control component 400 is provided during assembly with the control component 400 and battery component 300. This ensures that other metal components on the control component 400 and battery component 300 are isolated from the outer layer 210 via the structural layer 220. This not only ensures that the outer layer 210 can function as an antenna radiator but also guarantees clearance for the antenna radiator, thereby improving antenna performance.
[0178] The following is combined Figures 15 to 19 The preparation process of the appearance layer 210 and the structural layer 220 is described.
[0179] refer to Figure 15 First, a metal casting 710 can be obtained, and a connecting material position 720 can be set at a preset position on the metal casting 710. This preset position can be the position where a slit is required, such as the location of the aforementioned slit structure (micro-slit structure or first slit structure). For example, the metal casting 710 is similar in appearance to the outer layer 210, the main difference being that the metal casting 710 does not have a micro-slit structure or first slit structure.
[0180] refer to Figure 16 Next, wire cutting micro-slit processing is performed on the material feeding station 720 to form a micro-slit structure 212a. There can be two micro-slit structures 212a, with the slit width of each micro-slit structure 212a between 0.1mm and 0.3mm, and the width between the two micro-slit structures 212a between 0.8mm and 1.5mm. A detailed description of the micro-slit structure 212a can be found above and will not be repeated here.
[0181] refer to Figure 17 Then, NMT injection molding can be performed on the metal casting 710 to form a structural layer 220 inside the metal casting 710. The structural layer 220 can be referred to the description above.
[0182] refer to Figure 18 Then, the connecting material position 720 on the metal casting 710 can be removed by CNC machining, so that a micro-slit structure 212a can be formed on the surface of the metal casting 710.
[0183] In some embodiments, the micro-slit structure 212a can be directly subjected to surface treatment such as micro-slit filling / adhesive application to obtain, for example... Figure 18 The exterior layer 210 shown has a micro-slit structure 212a, but no dummy slit structure / decorative slit structure.
[0184] In some embodiments, reference may be made to Figure 19 A dummy seam structure 212b is formed on the surface of the metal casting 710 by CNC machining, followed by subsequent surface treatments such as micro-seam filling / adhesive application, to obtain the desired result. Figure 19 The exterior layer 210 shown has both micro-slit structures 212a and dummy-slit structures 212b. That is, if a decorative slit structure (or dummy-slit structure 212b) needs to be formed on the surface of the exterior layer 210, CNC dummy-slit processing can be performed at the corresponding position of the exterior layer 210 (the position where the dummy-slit structure needs to be set) before surface treatment, followed by subsequent surface treatments such as micro-slit filling / adhesive application, and finally an exterior layer 210 with dummy-slit structure 212b can be formed.
[0185] Considering that the antenna slot structure on the surface of the outer layer 210 may be rough, uneven in color, and unsightly after CNC removal of connecting parts and CNC dummy seams, surface treatments such as micro-slot filling with oil / adhesive can be applied to the metal parts to form a smooth outer layer 210 with a corresponding color for the slot structure, thereby increasing the aesthetics of the smartwatch. For example, the exposed antenna slot structure can have one or more colors such as blue, red, white, and yellow.
[0186] In some embodiments, in order to shorten the processing time of the appearance layer 210 and improve the processing efficiency of the appearance layer 210, multiple metal castings 710 can be stacked and installed during wire cutting (i.e. wire cutting micro-slits). Thus, the slit structure of multiple metal castings 710 can be obtained through one wire cutting process. For example, at least three metal castings 710 can be processed in one wire cutting process, which greatly improves the preparation efficiency of the appearance layer 210.
[0187] It should be noted that, in some embodiments, the appearance layer 210 and the structural layer 220 may also be processed in the manner described below.
[0188] First, the outer layer 210 can be forged or cast. Then, connecting material positions are set at the locations where seams are needed on the outer layer 210. Subsequently, the outer layer 210 is subjected to CNC machining, inner surface sandblasting, outer T-treatment, internal insert nuts, wire cutting micro-seams, and other treatments. Then, nano-injection molding is performed on the inner wall of the outer layer 210. The nano-injection molded parts are then subjected to stress-relief annealing, hot-melt nuts, plastic CNC machining, CNC removal of connecting material positions, and micro-seam filling with oil / glue, and other surface treatments, finally forming the outer layer 210.
[0189] In some embodiments, if it is necessary to form a decorative seam structure (or a false seam structure) on the surface of the outer layer 210, CNC false seam processing can be performed at the corresponding position of the outer layer 210 before surface treatment, followed by subsequent surface treatments such as micro-seam filling / adhesive application, and finally an outer layer 210 with a decorative seam structure can be formed.
[0190] In the process of forging or casting the outer layer 210, the net or near-net shape of the outer layer 210 can be directly achieved, which reduces a lot of CNC machining time compared with the traditional block aluminum alloy NMT injection molding solution.
[0191] In the process of sandblasting the inner surface of the outer layer 210, since sandblasting is performed before the T-treatment, the microscopic surface area of the inner surface of the outer layer 210 can be increased, thereby increasing the contact area between the injection molding material and the outer layer 210, and thus increasing the bonding stability between the outer layer 210 and the structural layer 220. In addition, it can also increase the uniformity of the T-treatment and improve the ease of T-treatment corrosion.
[0192] When the material of the outer layer 210 is titanium alloy, stainless steel, amorphous zirconium, etc., a dense metal oxide film can be formed on the surface of the outer layer 210. Therefore, this dense metal oxide film needs to be removed during the T-process to ensure that the outer layer 210 can be tightly bonded to the structural layer 220. Additionally, multiple nanopores can be etched into the surface of the outer layer 210. During injection molding, the injection molding material can flow into these nanopores; in other words, some of the injection molding material can penetrate into the outer layer 210, thereby improving the sealing and connection stability between the outer layer 210 and the structural layer 220.
[0193] It should be noted that when the outer layer 210 has achieved net or near-net shape, its wall thickness is typically 0.3mm-0.5mm. This makes the outer layer 210 prone to deformation during NMT injection molding, leading to plastic or elastic deformation under extreme injection pressure after NMT molding. To address this issue, during NMT injection molding, sliders or inserts can be used at the four positions (top, bottom, left, and right) of the outer layer 210 for zero-fitting, i.e., the mold provides support to the outer layer 210 in the x or y direction, thus resolving the deformation problem. The fabrication process between the outer layer 210 and the structural layer 220 can be set according to specific circumstances and will not be further described in this embodiment.
[0194] It should be understood that the wearable device 10 with multiple slit structures 212 provided in this application can be obtained through the two processing methods described above. The wearable device 10 can be a smartwatch or a smart bracelet, etc.
[0195] In addition, this application also provides a mid-frame component, which can be the mid-frame component 200 described above. This mid-frame component can be applied in various electronic devices, such as smartwatches, smart bracelets, and smartphones.
[0196] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.
Claims
1. A wearable device, characterized in that, include: The components include: panel assembly, mid-frame assembly, bottom shell assembly, and crown assembly, among which: The panel assembly and the bottom shell assembly are respectively disposed at the top and bottom ends of the middle frame assembly, and a receiving cavity for accommodating electronic devices is formed between the panel assembly, the middle frame assembly and the bottom shell assembly, and the crown assembly is mounted on the middle frame assembly; The mid-frame assembly includes an appearance layer and a structural layer, with the structural layer nested within the appearance layer. The appearance layer is a metal appearance layer, and the structural layer is an insulating structural layer. Along the thickness direction of the wearable device, the outer layer is provided with multiple antenna slot structures, and a portion of the structure layer passes through the multiple antenna slot structures and is exposed. The plurality of antenna slot structures include a first slot structure and a second slot structure. The slot width of the first slot structure is between 0.1 mm and 0.3 mm, and the slot width of the second slot structure is between 0.8 mm and 1.5 mm. The second slot structure is located at the mounting position of the crown assembly.
2. The wearable device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The width between adjacent first slit structures is between 0.8mm and 1.5mm.
3. The wearable device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The side of the middle frame assembly is provided with an assembly hole for mounting the crown assembly, and the assembly hole communicates with the second gap structure.
4. The wearable device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, Along the thickness direction of the wearable device, a decorative seam structure is also provided on the outer layer. The decorative seam structure is located on the surface of the outer layer and passes through a portion of the outer layer. The opening width of the decorative seam structure is equal to the opening width of the first gap structure.
5. The wearable device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The decorative seam structure is located between adjacent first gap structures.
6. The wearable device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The decorative seam structure is disposed on one side of the first gap structure, and the width between the decorative seam structure and the adjacent first gap structure is equal to the width between the adjacent first gap structures.
7. The wearable device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The inner wall of the outer layer is provided with a connecting part that extends into the cavity. The structural layer is provided with a mounting part that mates with the connecting part. One end of the connecting part passes through the mounting part, and the other end is exposed outside the mounting part.
8. The wearable device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The connecting portion includes a first connecting segment and a second connecting segment. One end of the first connecting segment is connected to the inner wall of the outer layer, and the other end of the first connecting segment extends into the interior of the outer layer. One end of the second connecting segment is connected to the end of the first connecting segment away from the outer layer, and the other end of the second connecting segment extends away from the first connecting segment along the thickness direction of the wearable device.
9. The wearable device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The outer layer also includes multiple adhesive-stretching structures, which are located on one or both sides of the multiple antenna slot structures. The adhesive-stretching structures are used to increase the bonding force between the outer layer and the structural layer.
10. The wearable device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The plurality of adhesive-stretching structures include a first adhesive-stretching structure, which is located on the first connecting segment.
11. The wearable device according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that, An extension is also provided on the inner wall of the outer layer, the extension extends along the outer layer into the cavity, and one end of the extension is connected to the inner wall of the outer layer. The plurality of adhesive-stretching structures further includes a second adhesive-stretching structure, which is located on the extension.
12. The wearable device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The other end of the extension is connected to the first connecting segment of the connecting portion.
13. The wearable device according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, Both the first and second adhesive-pulling structures are blind-hole adhesive-pulling structures, with the openings of the blind-hole adhesive-pulling structures facing the receiving cavity.
14. The wearable device according to any one of claims 9 to 13, characterized in that, The plurality of adhesive-pulling structures also includes a third adhesive-pulling structure, which is a blind hole type adhesive-pulling structure, and is disposed on the inner wall of the outer layer along the wall thickness direction of the outer layer.
15. The wearable device according to any one of claims 9 to 14, characterized in that, The inner wall of the outer layer is also provided with an inwardly protruding boss, and the plurality of adhesive-pulling structures also include a fourth adhesive-pulling structure, which is disposed on the boss along the thickness direction of the wearable device.
16. The wearable device according to any one of claims 9 to 15, characterized in that, The plurality of adhesive-stretching structures also includes a fifth adhesive-stretching structure, which is a groove structure provided along the inner wall of the outer surface layer.