Band Identification for Wearable Computing Devices

Abstract

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

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to wearable computing devices, and more particularly to identifying bands used to secure a wearable computing device to a user's appendage (e.g., wrist). [Background technology]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0015] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of various embodiments of the present disclosure will become better understood with reference to the following detailed description and the appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the detailed description, serve to explain the associated principles.

[0016] A detailed discussion of embodiments directed to those skilled in the art is set forth herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates a wearable computing device worn on a user's wrist, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 2 shows a perspective view of the wearable computing device of FIG. 1 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of components of a system for identifying a band removably coupled to a housing of a wearable computing device, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] 1 illustrates a power interface of a system for identifying a band removably coupled to a housing of a wearable computing device, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] 1 illustrates a system for identifying a band removably coupled to a housing of a wearable computing device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] 1 illustrates a system for identifying a band removably coupled to a housing of a wearable computing device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7A] 7 illustrates voltage signals at a processor on the bands of FIG. 6 as a function of time, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7B] 6 illustrates the binary signal output by the processor on the band of FIG. 5 as a function of time, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] 1 illustrates a system for identifying a band removably coupled to a housing of a wearable computing device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 9A] 1 illustrates an on-band circuit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9B] 1 illustrates an on-band circuit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9C] 1 illustrates an on-band circuit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9D] 1 illustrates an on-band circuit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9E] 1 illustrates an on-band circuit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] 1 illustrates a flow diagram of a method for identifying a band removably coupled to a wearable computing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] 10 illustrates another flow diagram of a method for identifying a band removably coupled to a wearable computing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] 10 illustrates yet another flow diagram of a method for identifying a band removably coupled to a wearable computing device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] 1 illustrates components of a computing system of a wearable computing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] Reference will now be made in detail to the embodiments of the present disclosure, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the disclosure, and not as a limitation thereof. Indeed, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present disclosure without departing from the scope or spirit of the disclosure. For example, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with other embodiments to yield still further embodiments. Thus, it is intended that the present invention cover such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0019] An exemplary aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a system for identifying which of a plurality of different bands (e.g., wristbands) is currently removably coupled to a housing of a wearable computing device. The system may include a first circuit that is part of the wearable computing device and a second circuit that is part of each of the plurality of different bands. The system may further include a power interface configured to deliver power from an energy storage device (e.g., a battery, a capacitor) of the wearable computing device to the second circuit of one of the bands. The second circuit may communicate a unique identifier of the band to the first circuit. The first circuit may then identify the band based at least in part on the unique identifier.

[0020] A unique operation may be performed in the wearable computing device according to the identification of the band removably coupled to the housing of the wearable computing device. For example, a unique operation may be performed in the electronic output device of the wearable computing device based at least in part on the identification of the band. In some embodiments, the electronic output device may include a display screen, and the color of at least a portion of the display screen may be changed based on the identification of the band removably coupled to the housing of the wearable computing device. For example, in some embodiments, the color of the background of the display screen may be changed to match the color of the band. It should be understood that in such embodiments, the color of the band may be determined based at least in part on the unique identifier of the band.

[0021] In some embodiments, the band may include one or more sensors (e.g., biometric sensors) that are not present in the wearable computing device. In such embodiments, the unique identifier may indicate that the band includes one or more sensors. Further, in such embodiments, the wearable computing device may operate to acquire data via the one or more sensors present in the band.

[0022] In some embodiments, the first circuit may be configured to identify the band when the user is not wearing the wearable computing device. For example, the first circuit may obtain data from one or more sensors (e.g., a heart rate sensor, a motion sensor, etc.) indicating whether the user is wearing the wearable computing device. In this manner, the first circuit may obtain a unique identifier for the band while the wearable computing device is not worn by the user (e.g., removed from the wrist).

[0023] The disclosed technology may provide numerous technical effects and advantages. For example, a wearable computing device according to the present disclosure may identify various bands a user may be using to secure the wearable computing device to the user's appendage (e.g., wrist). Furthermore, the wearable computing device may perform unique operations based at least in part on the identification of the band removably coupled to the housing of the wearable computing device. More specifically, the wearable computing device may perform functions specific to the type of band currently attached to the housing of the wearable computing device, which may enhance the user experience.

[0024] 1 and 2 illustrate a wearable computing device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the wearable computing device 100 may be worn, for example, on a user's arm 102 (e.g., wrist). The wearable computing device 100 may include a housing 110 defining a cavity within which one or more electronic components are disposed (e.g., arranged on a printed circuit board). For example, the wearable computing device 100 may include a printed circuit board 120 (e.g., a flexible printed circuit board) disposed within the cavity. Further, the one or more electronic components may be included on the printed circuit board 120. The wearable computing device 100 may further include a battery (not shown) disposed within the cavity defined by the housing 110.

[0025] In some embodiments, wearable computing device 100 includes display 130. Display 130 may display content for a user to view (e.g., date, time, step count, heart rate, etc.). It should be understood that display 130 may include any suitable type of display. For example, in some embodiments, display 130 may be an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display. It should be understood that display 130 may be disposed under a display cover. In this manner, display 130 may be protected from damage (e.g., scratches, cracks). It should also be understood that the display cover may be transparent. In this manner, a user may be able to view display 130 through the display cover.

[0026] As shown, wearable computing device 100 may be secured to a user's arm 102 (e.g., wrist) via a band 140. Band 140 may include a first portion 142 and a second portion 144 separate from first portion 142. First portion 142 of band 140 may be removably coupled to housing 110 at a first position on housing 110. Conversely, second portion 144 of band 140 may be removably coupled to housing 110 at a second position on housing 110 that is different from the first position. For example, the first position and second position may be on opposite sides of housing 110.

[0027] It should be understood that the first portion 142 of the band 140 can be coupled to the second portion 144 of the band 140 to secure the wearable computing device 100 to the user's arm 102. In some embodiments, the first portion 142 of the band 140 can include a buckle or clasp (not shown). Additionally, the second portion 144 of the band 140 can include a plurality of apertures (not shown) spaced apart from one another along the length of the second portion 144 of the band 140. In such an embodiment, a protrusion of a buckle associated with the first portion 142 of the band 140 can pass through one of the apertures defined by the second portion 144 of the band 140, thereby coupling the first portion 142 of the band 140 to the second portion 144 of the band 140.

[0028] It should be understood that the first portion 142 of the band 140 can be coupled to the second portion 144 of the band 140 using any suitable type of fastener. For example, in some embodiments, the first portion 142 of the band 140 and the second portion 144 of the band 140 can include magnets. In such embodiments, the first portion 142 of the band 140 and the second portion 144 of the band 140 can be magnetically interconnected to secure the wearable computing device 100 to the user's arm 102. It should also be understood that the band 140 can be interchangeable with other bands. For example, the band 140 can be of a first type (e.g., color, material) and can be interchangeable with a second type of band that is different from the first type. In this manner, the band 140 can be an accessory to the wearable computing device 100 that can be customized according to the user's preferences.

[0029] 3 and 4 , a system 200 for identifying a band 140 coupled to a housing 110 ( FIG. 1 ) of a wearable computing device 100 is provided, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the system 200 may be distributed across both the wearable computing device 100 and the band 140. More specifically, the system 200 may include a first circuit 210 integrated into (e.g., forming part of) the wearable computing device 100 and a second circuit 220 integrated into (e.g., forming part of) the band 140. In some embodiments, the second circuit 220 may be included in the first portion 142 ( FIG. 2 ) of the band 140 or the second portion 144 ( FIG. 2 ) of the band 140. In alternative embodiments, the second circuit 220 may be included in both the first portion 142 of the band 140 and the second portion 144 of the band 140. For example, in some embodiments, a first instance of the second circuit 220 may be included in a first portion 142 of the band 140, and a second instance of the second circuit 220 may be included in a second portion 144 of the band 140.

[0030] The system 200 may include a power interface 230 configured to deliver power from an energy storage device 150 (e.g., a battery, a capacitor, etc.) on the wearable computing device 100 to a second circuit 220 included in the band 140. In some embodiments, the power interface 230 may include a first conductor 232 (e.g., a wire) for delivering power from the energy storage device 150 ( FIG. 3 ) of the wearable computing device 100 to the second circuit 220 included in the band 140. The power interface 230 may further include a second conductor 234 that is electrically grounded. It should be understood that the power interface 230 may be implemented as an electrical contact on both the wearable computing device 100 and the band 140. For example, the first conductor 232 of the power interface 230 may be implemented as a first electrical contact on the wearable computing device 100 and the band 140. Additionally, second conductor 234 may be implemented as second electrical contacts on wearable computing device 100 and band 140. It should be understood that electrical contacts on band 140 make contact with respective contacts on wearable computing device 100 when band 140 is removably coupled to housing 110 (FIG. 2) of wearable computing device 100.

[0031] In some embodiments, the first circuit 210 may include a processor 212 and a switching device 214. The switching device 214 may be electrically connected between the energy storage device 150 and the power interface 230. Additionally, the processor 212 may be communicatively connected to the switching device 214. In this manner, the processor 212 may communicate one or more control signals associated with controlling the operation of the switching device 214. For example, the processor 212 may control the operation of the switching device 214 to connect the energy storage device 150 to the power interface 230, thereby allowing power to be transferred from the energy storage device 150 to the second circuit 220 included in the band 140. Conversely, the processor 212 may control the operation of the switching device 214 to disconnect the energy storage device 150 from the power interface 230, thereby preventing power from being transferred from the energy storage device 150 to the second circuit 220 included in the band 140.

[0032] In some embodiments, processor 212 may control operation of switching device 214 based at least in part on data obtained from one or more sensors of wearable computing device 100. For example, in some embodiments, processor 212 may control operation of switching device 214 to connect energy storage device 150 to power interface 230 in response to determining that wearable computing device 100 is being worn by a user. In this manner, power may be transferred from energy storage device 150 to second circuit 220 included in band 140 when wearable computing device 100 is being worn by a user.

[0033] In some embodiments, the processor 212 may control the operation of the switching device 214 to connect the energy storage device 150 to the power interface in response to determining that the wearable computing device 100 is not being worn by a user. In this manner, power may be transferred from the energy storage device 150 to the second circuit 220 included in the band 140 when the wearable computing device 100 is not being worn by a user.

[0034] However, it should be understood that any suitable sensor configured to obtain data indicative of whether a user is wearing wearable computing device 100 is within the scope of this disclosure. For example, in some embodiments, the one or more sensors may include a motion sensor (e.g., an accelerometer, an inertial measurement unit, etc.). In alternative embodiments, the one or more sensors may include a heart rate sensor.

[0035] The second circuit 220 may be configured to communicate a unique identifier (e.g., a code, an address, etc.) of the band 140 to the first circuit 210. The unique identifier may indicate one or more characteristics of the band 140. For example, the unique identifier may indicate the color of the band 140. Alternatively or additionally, the unique identifier may indicate the material of the band 140. For example, the unique identifier may indicate whether the material of the band 140 is waterproof. In some embodiments, the unique identifier may indicate that the band 140 includes one or more sensors (e.g., a motion sensor, a touch sensor, etc.). For example, in some embodiments, the band 140 may include sensors not included in the wearable computing device 100. In such embodiments, the band 140 may be attached to the housing 110 of the wearable computing device 100 to provide additional functionality (e.g., sensing capabilities).

[0036] In some embodiments, the second circuit 220 may be configured to modulate the unique identifier onto a signal to generate a modulated signal that is communicated to the wearable computing device 100. For example, in some embodiments, the second circuit 220 may communicate the modulated signal to the first circuit 210 via the power interface 230. In alternative embodiments, the second circuit 220 may communicate the modulated signal to the first circuit 210 via a wireless network. It should be understood that the second circuit 220 may be configured to implement any suitable modulation scheme. For example, in some embodiments, the second circuit 220 may be configured to modulate the unique identifier onto a signal according to an on-off keying modulation scheme.

[0037] In some embodiments, the first circuit 210 may include a decoder 216 configured to decode the modulated signal received from the second circuit 220. For example, the decoder 216 may decode the modulated signal to obtain a unique identifier for the band 140. Further, the decoder 216 may communicate the unique identifier to the processor 212.

[0038] 5, a system 400 for identifying a band 140 is provided in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the system 400 may be distributed across both the wearable computing device 100 and the band 140. For example, the system 400 may include a first circuit 410 that is part of the wearable computing device 100 and a second circuit 420 that is part of the band 140. Additionally, the system 400 may include the power interface 230 described above with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4.

[0039] The first circuit 410 on the wearable computing device 100 may include a processor 412. The first circuit 410 may further include a voltage divider circuit 414 electrically connected between the first conductor 232 (e.g., a power conductor) of the power interface 230 ( FIG. 4 ) and the second conductor 234 (e.g., a ground conductor) of the power interface 230. The voltage divider circuit 414 may include a first resistor R1 having a first resistance and a second resistor R2 having a second resistance R2 that is different (e.g., greater than, smaller than) the first resistance of the first resistor R1.

[0040] Voltage divider circuit 414 may be configured to step down a voltage from a first voltage (e.g., approximately 5 volts) to a second voltage across first conductor 232 and second conductor 234. The second voltage may comprise a voltage range (e.g., approximately 0.5 volts to approximately 2 volts). Additionally, processor 412 may be electrically coupled to voltage divider circuit 414 at a node 416 disposed between first resistor R1 and second resistor R2. In some embodiments, processor 412 may include a general-purpose input / output (GPIO) pin electrically coupled to node 416. In this manner, processor 412 may be configured to read GPIO pin 418 to obtain the output of voltage divider circuit 414 (e.g., the stepped-down second voltage).

[0041] In some embodiments, the second circuit 420 on the band 140 may include a processor 422. As shown, the processor 422 may be electrically connected to the first conductor 232 of the power interface 230 ( FIG. 4 ). For example, the processor 422 may include a voltage supply pin 424 electrically connected to the first conductor 232 of the power interface 230. The processor 422 may further include a ground pin 426 electrically connected to the second conductor 234 of the power interface 230.

[0042] The processor 422 may further include a general-purpose input / output (GPIO) pin 428 electrically connected to the first conductor 232 of the power interface 230 ( FIG. 4 ). As shown, the second circuit 420 may include a resistor R3 electrically connected between the first conductor 232 and the GPIO pin 428. In some embodiments, the resistance of the resistor R3 may be different from the resistance of the first resistor R1 and the resistance of the second resistor R2 of the voltage divider circuit 414.

[0043] In some embodiments, the processor 422 may be configured to control the GPIO pin 428 to communicate a unique identifier for the band 140. For example, the processor 422 may drive the GPIO pin 428 in a low state during a first time instance such that the voltage drop between the first conductor 232 and the second conductor 234 corresponds to a first voltage. Additionally, the processor 422 may drive the GPIO pin 428 in a high state such that the voltage drop between the first conductor 232 and the second conductor 234 corresponds to a second voltage that is different (e.g., greater) than the first voltage. It should be understood that the processor 422 may drive the GPIO pin 428 in a low state or a high state by writing a first value (e.g., zero) or a second value (e.g., one) to the GPIO pin 428, respectively. For example, in some embodiments, the processor 422 may write a first value to the GPIO pin 428 to drive the GPIO pin in a low state. Conversely, the processor 422 may write a second value to the GPIO pin 428 to drive the GPIO pin 428 in a high state.

[0044] In some embodiments, the processor 412 of the first circuit 410 may be configured to read the GPIO pin 418 while the processor 422 of the second circuit 420 drives the GPIO pin 428 of the processor 422 to communicate a unique identifier for the band 140. In this manner, the processor 412 may obtain multiple voltage measurements that are the output of the voltage divider circuit 414.

[0045] The processor 412 may be configured to assign a binary value (e.g., 1 or 0) to each of the multiple voltage measurements output by the voltage divider circuit 414. For example, the processor 412 may be configured to assign a first binary value (e.g., 1) when the output of the voltage divider circuit 414 is greater than or equal to a threshold voltage, and to assign a second binary value (e.g., 0) when the output of the voltage divider circuit 414 is less than the threshold voltage. In this manner, the multiple voltage measurements output by the voltage divider circuit 414 may be converted to digital signals, and the processor 412 may determine the identity of the band 140 from the digital signals.

[0046] It should be understood that while system 400 is discussed with reference to second circuit 420 on band 140 ( FIG. 3 ) communicating data (e.g., a unique identifier) ​​to first circuit 410 on wearable computing device 100 ( FIG. 3 ), there is no intention to limit system 400 in this manner. For example, in some embodiments, system 400 may be configured to enable bidirectional data communication between first circuit 410 and second circuit 420 via power interface 230 ( FIG. 4 ).

[0047] 6, a system 500 for identifying a band 140 is provided in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the system 500 may be distributed across both the wearable computing device 100 and the band 140. For example, the system 500 may include a first circuit 510 that is part of the wearable computing device 100 and a second circuit 520 that is part of the band 140. Additionally, the system 500 may include the power interface 230 described above with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4.

[0048] The first circuit 510 may include a processor circuit 512 and a comparison circuit 514. As shown, the comparison circuit 514 may be electrically connected between the first conductor 232 of the power interface 230 ( FIG. 4 ) and the second conductor 234 of the power interface 230. The comparison circuit 514 may include a first resistor R1 to hold the first conductor 232 at a first potential V1 (e.g., approximately 3 volts). The comparison circuit 514 may include an operational amplifier 516. As shown, a first input (e.g., a non-inverting input) of the operational amplifier 516 may be electrically connected to the first conductor 232 of the power interface 230. Additionally, a second input (e.g., an inverting input) of the operational amplifier 516 may be electrically connected to a general-purpose input / output (GPIO) pin 513. As shown, the comparison circuit 514 may include a second resistor R2 to hold the GPIO pin 513 at a second potential V2 that is lower than the first potential V1.

[0049] In some embodiments, the second circuit 520 on the band 140 may include a processor 522. As shown, the processor 522 may be electrically connected to the first conductor 232 of the power interface 230 ( FIG. 4 ). For example, the processor 522 may include a voltage supply pin 524 electrically connected to the first conductor 232 of the power interface 230. The processor 522 may further include a ground pin 526 electrically connected to the second conductor 234 of the power interface 230.

[0050] The processor 522 may further include a general-purpose input / output (GPIO) pin 528 electrically connected to the first conductor 232 of the power interface 230 ( FIG. 4 ). As shown, the second circuit 520 may include a resistor R3 electrically connected between the first conductor 232 and the GPIO pin 528. In some embodiments, the resistance of the resistor R3 may be different from the resistance of the first resistor R1 and the resistance of the second resistor R2 of the comparison circuit 514.

[0051] In some embodiments, processor 522 may be configured to control GPIO pin 528 to communicate a unique identifier for band 140. For example, processor 522 may drive GPIO pin 528 in a low state for a first time instance such that first potential V1 corresponds to a first voltage. Further, processor 522 may drive GPIO pin 528 in a high state such that first potential V1 corresponds to a second voltage that is different (e.g., greater) than the first voltage. It should be understood that processor 522 may drive GPIO pin 528 in a low state or a high state by writing a first value (e.g., zero) or a second value (e.g., one) to GPIO pin 528, respectively. For example, in some embodiments, processor 522 may write a first value to GPIO pin 528 to drive the GPIO pin in a low state. Conversely, processor 522 may write a second value to GPIO pin 528 to drive GPIO pin 528 in a high state.

[0052] It should be understood that the operational amplifier 516 may compare the first potential V1 with a second potential V2 (e.g., a reference potential). It should also be understood that the operational amplifier 516 may output a first value when the first potential V1 is greater than the second potential V2, and may output a second value when the first potential V1 is not greater than the second potential V2. It should also be understood that when the processor 522 on the band drives the GPIO pin 528 of the processor 522 to communicate the unique identifier, the processor 512 may identify the unique identifier of the band 140 based on a change in the output of the operational amplifier 516.

[0053] It should be understood that while system 500 is discussed with reference to second circuit 520 on band 140 (FIG. 3) communicating data (e.g., a unique identifier) ​​to first circuit 510 on wearable computing device 100 (FIG. 3), there is no intention to limit system 500 in this manner. For example, in some embodiments, system 500 may be configured to enable bidirectional data communication between first circuit 510 and second circuit 520 via power interface 230 (FIG. 4).

[0054] 7A and 7B, two separate voltage signals are presented as a function of time, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7A illustrates a voltage signal 600 measured over a period of time at a voltage supply pin 524 (FIG. 6) of a processor 522 (FIG. 6) of a second circuit 520 (FIG. 6). Additionally, FIG. 7B illustrates a binary signal 610 measured over the same period of time at a GPIO pin 528 (FIG. 6) of a processor 522 (FIG. 6) of a second circuit 520 (FIG. 6). It should be appreciated that the portion of the binary signal 610 indicated by a box 612 represents a unique identifier for band 140 (FIG. 2). For example, GPIO pin 528 may be driven in a low or high state to communicate the unique identifier for band 140. It should be appreciated that driving GPIO pin 528 in a low or high state causes voltage signal 600 to toggle between a first voltage V1 and a second voltage V2, respectively.

[0055] 8, a system 700 for identifying a band 140 is provided in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the system 700 may be distributed across both the wearable computing device 100 and the band 140. For example, the system 700 may include a first circuit 710 that is part of the wearable computing device 100 and a second circuit 720 that is part of the band 140. Additionally, the system 700 may include the power interface 230 described above with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4.

[0056] The first circuit 710 may include a processor circuit 712 and a comparison circuit 714. As shown, the comparison circuit 714 may be electrically connected between the first conductor 232 of the power interface 230 ( FIG. 4 ) and the second conductor 234 of the power interface 230. The comparison circuit 714 may include a first resistor R1 to hold the first conductor 232 at a first potential V1 (e.g., approximately 3 volts). The comparison circuit 714 may include an operational amplifier 716. As shown, a first input (e.g., a non-inverting input) of the operational amplifier 716 may be electrically connected to the first conductor 232 of the power interface 230. Additionally, a second input (e.g., an inverting input) of the operational amplifier 716 may be electrically connected to a general-purpose input / output (GPIO) pin 713. As shown, the comparison circuit 714 may include a second resistor R2 to hold the GPIO pin 713 at a second potential V2 that is lower than the first potential V1.

[0057] In some embodiments, the second circuit 720 on the band 140 may include a processor 722. As shown, the processor 722 may be electrically connected to the first conductor 232 of the power interface 230 (FIG. 4). For example, the processor 722 may include a voltage supply pin 724 electrically connected to the first conductor 232 of the power interface 230 (FIG. 4). The processor 722 may further include a ground pin 726 electrically connected to the second conductor 234 of the power interface 230.

[0058] The processor 722 may further include a general-purpose input / output (GPIO) pin 728 electrically connected to the first conductor 232 of the power interface 230 ( FIG. 4 ). As shown, the second circuit 720 may include a resistor R3 electrically connected between the first conductor 232 and the GPIO pin 728. In some embodiments, the resistance of the resistor R3 may be different from the resistance of the first resistor R1 and the resistance of the second resistor R2 of the comparison circuit 714.

[0059] In some embodiments, the processor 722 of the second circuit 720 may be configured to control the GPIO pin 728 to communicate a unique identifier for the band 140. For example, the processor 722 may drive the GPIO pin 728 in a low state for a first time instance such that the first potential V1 corresponds to a first voltage. Additionally, the processor 722 may drive the GPIO pin 728 in a high state such that the first potential V1 corresponds to a second voltage that is different (e.g., greater) than the first voltage. It should be understood that the processor 722 may drive the GPIO pin 728 in a low state or a high state by writing a first value (e.g., zero) or a second value (e.g., one) to the GPIO pin 728, respectively. For example, in some embodiments, the processor 722 may write a first value to the GPIO pin 728 to drive the GPIO pin in a low state. Conversely, processor 722 may write a second value to GPIO pin 728 to drive GPIO pin 728 in a high state.

[0060] It should be understood that the operational amplifier 716 may compare the first potential V1 with a second potential V2 (e.g., a reference potential). It should also be understood that the operational amplifier 716 may output a first value when the first potential V1 is greater than the second potential V2, and may output a second value when the first potential V1 is not greater than the second potential V2. It should also be understood that when the on-band processor 722 drives the GPIO pin 728 of the processor 522 to communicate the unique identifier of the band 140, the processor 712 may determine the unique identifier of the band 140 based on a change in the output of the operational amplifier 716.

[0061] As shown, wearable computing device 100 ( FIG. 1 ) may include a motion sensor 160 electrically connected to first conductor 232 of power interface 230 ( FIG. 4 ). Motion sensor 160 may be configured to acquire motion data indicative of movement of wearable computing device 100. In this manner, first circuit 710, and specifically processor 712 of first circuit 710, may determine whether a user is wearing wearable computing device 100 based at least in part on the motion data acquired via motion sensor 160. In some embodiments, motion sensor 160 may include an inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor. However, it should be understood that motion sensor 160 may include any suitable type of sensor configured to detect movement. For example, in some embodiments, motion sensor 160 may include an accelerometer.

[0062] In some embodiments, the second circuit 720 on the band 140 may include an antenna 730. As shown, the antenna 730 may be electrically connected to the processor 722 of the second circuit. For example, the antenna 730 may be electrically connected to a voltage supply pin 724 of the processor 722. In some embodiments, the antenna 730 may be configured to communicate a unique identifier of the band 140 to the wearable computing device 100 over a wireless network. Alternatively or additionally, the band 140 may include one or more sensors (e.g., capacitive sensors), and the antenna 730 may be configured to communicate data from the one or more sensors to the wearable computing device 100. It should be understood that the wearable computing device 100 may include one or more antennas (not shown) to facilitate communication with the band 140 over a wireless network.

[0063] In some embodiments, antenna 730 may also function as an electrode for detecting touch events (e.g., capacitive sensors) or user movement (e.g., static change detection). Additionally, in some embodiments, antenna 730 may be communicatively connected to first circuit 710 on wearable computing device 100. In this manner, data indicative of motion / touch events detected by antenna 730 when antenna 730 functions as an electrode may be communicated to processor 712 of first circuit 710 on wearable computing device 100. First circuit 710 may be configured to process data indicative of motion and / or touch events detected by antenna 730. For example, in some embodiments, processor 712 of first circuit 710 may be configured to execute a machine learning model to classify data detected by antenna 730 as one of a plurality of different motion / touch events. In alternative embodiments, the machine learning model may be executed by motion sensor 160 of wearable computing device 100, and data detected by antenna 730 may be classified as one of a plurality of different motion / touch events.

[0064] 9A , an embodiment of a second circuit 220 on a band 140 according to the present disclosure is provided. As shown, the second circuit 220 may be included in a first portion 142 of the band 140 and a second portion 144 of the band 140. In some embodiments, the second circuit 220 may include a resistor. For example, in some embodiments, the second circuit 220 on the first portion 142 of the band 140 may include a resistor. It should be understood that the resistor may have a resistance value that is unique to the band 140. In this manner, the voltage at the power interface 230 when the band 140 is coupled to the housing 110 of the wearable computing device 100 may uniquely identify the band 140.

[0065] 9B, another embodiment of a second circuit 220 on a band 140 according to the present disclosure is provided. The second circuit 220 may include logic circuitry, which is included in the first portion 142 of the band 140. The logic circuitry may be configured to communicate a unique identifier for the band 140. In some embodiments, the second circuit 220 may be configured as the second circuits 420, 520 shown in FIGS. 5 and 6.

[0066] 9C , yet another embodiment of a second circuit 220 on a band 140 according to the present disclosure is provided. In some embodiments, the second circuit 220 located on the first portion 142 of the band 140 may be a logic circuit configured to communicate a unique identifier for the first portion 142 of the band 140. Additionally, the second circuit 220 located on the second portion 144 of the band 140 may be a resistor having a resistance value that can uniquely identify the second portion 144 of the band 140. For example, the resistor may cause the voltage at the power interface 230 to have a voltage value that uniquely identifies the second portion 144 of the band 140.

[0067] 9D, yet another embodiment of a second circuit 220 on a band 140 according to the present disclosure is provided. In some embodiments, the second circuit 220 disposed on the first portion 142 of the band 140 may be a logic circuit configured to communicate a unique identifier of the band 140. Additionally, the second circuit 220 disposed on the second portion 144 of the band 140 may include one or more sensors (e.g., capacitive sensors) configured to determine whether the band 140 is being worn by a user.

[0068] 9E, other embodiments of the second circuit 220 on the band 140 are provided in accordance with the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the second circuit 220 disposed on the first portion 142 of the band 140 may include a logic circuit configured to communicate a unique identifier for the band 140. In addition, the second circuit 220 disposed on the first portion 142 of the band 140 may further include one or more sensors configured to determine whether the band 140 is being worn by a user. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the second circuit 220 disposed on the second portion 144 of the band 140 may include one or more sensors configured to determine whether the band 140 is being worn by a user. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors on the second portion 144 of the band 140 may be different from the one or more sensors on the first portion 142 of the band 140.

[0069] It should be understood that the functionality of band 140 shown in FIGS. 9A-9E is not limited to having circuitry (e.g., second circuit 220) that stores and communicates a unique identifier for band 140 to wearable computing device 100. For example, in some embodiments, band 140 may include one or more motion sensors (e.g., accelerometers) configured to detect movement of band 140. Alternatively or additionally, the one or more sensors included in band 140 may include one or more touch sensors. In such embodiments, data from the one or more motion sensors, the one or more touch sensors, or both may be processed (e.g., via a machine learning model) to determine whether the data indicates a user performing one or more movements (e.g., a predetermined gesture). In some embodiments, wearable computing device 100 may perform one or more control actions in response to determining that the data corresponds to a predetermined gesture.

[0070] In some embodiments, band 140 may include an output device. For example, in some embodiments, the output device may include an LED indicator. In such embodiments, the LED indicator may be enabled (e.g., activated) when band 140 is attached to wearable computing device 100 and receives power from energy storage device 150 ( FIG. 2 ) of wearable computing device 100. In this manner, the LED indicator may provide a visual notification to the user that band 140 is attached to wearable computing device 100 and receiving power from energy storage device 150 of wearable computing device 100.

[0071] Referring now to FIG. 10 , a flow diagram of an exemplary method 800 for identifying a band of a wearable computing device is provided, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Method 800 may be implemented, for example, by any of systems 200, 400, 500, 700 described above with reference to FIGS. 3 , 5 , 6 , and 8 . FIG. 10 shows steps performed in a particular order for purposes of illustration and explanation. Those skilled in the art having access to the disclosure provided herein will understand that the various steps of method 800, or any of the other methods disclosed herein, may be adapted, modified, rearranged, performed simultaneously, or variously altered without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0072] Method 800 may include, at 802, controlling operation of a switching device to electrically connect an energy storage device of the wearable computing device to a power interface of the wearable computing device. In this manner, power may be transferred from the energy storage device to circuitry included in a band removably coupled to a housing of the wearable computing device.

[0073] Method 800 may include, at (804), obtaining data (e.g., a unique identifier) ​​from circuitry included in the band. In some embodiments, the circuitry on the band may communicate the data to the wearable computing device via a power interface. More specifically, the circuitry on the band may communicate the data via power conductors of the power interface. In alternative embodiments, the circuitry on the band may communicate the data to the wearable computing device via a wireless network. After obtaining the data, method 800 may proceed to (808).

[0074] Method 800 may include, at 806, controlling operation of the switching device to disconnect an energy storage device of the wearable computing device from a power interface of the wearable computing device. In this manner, power may no longer be transmitted from the energy storage device to circuitry included in a band removably coupled to a housing of the wearable computing device.

[0075] Method 800 may include, at 808, controlling operation of the wearable computing device based at least in part on the data obtained from the circuitry on the band. For example, in some embodiments, a unique operation may be performed at an electronic output device of the wearable computing device based at least in part on the data obtained at 804. In some embodiments, the electronic output device may include a display screen, and the color of at least a portion of the display screen may be changed based on an identification of the band removably coupled to a housing of the wearable computing device. For example, in some embodiments, the color of the background of the display screen may be changed to match the color of the band. It should be understood that in such embodiments, the color of the band may be identified based at least in part on the unique identifier of the band.

[0076] Referring now to FIG. 11 , a flow diagram of an exemplary method 900 for identifying a band of a wearable computing device is provided, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Method 900 may be implemented, for example, by any of systems 200, 400, 500, 700 described above with reference to FIGS. 3 , 5 , 6 , and 8 . FIG. 11 shows steps performed in a particular order for purposes of illustration and explanation. Those skilled in the art having access to the disclosure provided herein will understand that the various steps of method 900, or any of the other methods disclosed herein, may be adapted, modified, rearranged, performed simultaneously, or variously altered without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0077] Method 900 may include, at 902, determining whether the wearable computing device is being worn by a user. In some embodiments, a first circuit on the wearable computing device may obtain data from one or more sensors configured to obtain data (e.g., motion data, heart rate data, etc.) indicative of whether the wearable computing device is being worn by a user. If the first circuit determines, based on the data from the one or more sensors, that the wearable computing device is not being worn by a person, method 900 proceeds to 904. If worn, method 900 continues to 912.

[0078] The method 900 may include, at 904, controlling operation of the switching device to electrically connect an energy storage device of the wearable computing device to a power interface of the wearable computing device. In this manner, power may be transferred from the energy storage device to circuitry included in a band removably coupled to a housing of the wearable computing device.

[0079] Method 900 may include, at (906), obtaining data (e.g., a unique identifier) ​​from circuitry included in the band. In some embodiments, the circuitry on the band may communicate the data to the wearable computing device via a power interface. More specifically, the circuitry on the band may communicate the data via power conductors of the power interface. In alternative embodiments, the circuitry on the band may communicate the data to the wearable computing device via a wireless network. After obtaining the data, method 900 may proceed to (908).

[0080] The method 900 may include, at 908, controlling operation of the switching device to disconnect an energy storage device of the wearable computing device from a power interface of the wearable computing device. In this manner, power may no longer be transmitted from the energy storage device to circuitry included in a band removably coupled to a housing of the wearable computing device.

[0081] Method 900 may include, at 910, controlling operation of the wearable computing device based at least in part on the data obtained from the circuitry on the band. For example, in some embodiments, a unique operation may be performed on an electronic output device of the wearable computing device based at least in part on the data obtained at 906. In some embodiments, the electronic output device may include a display screen, and the color of at least a portion of the display screen may be changed based on an identification of the band removably coupled to a housing of the wearable computing device. For example, in some embodiments, the color of the background of the display screen may be changed to match the color of the band. It should be understood that in such embodiments, the color of the band may be identified based at least in part on the unique identifier of the band.

[0082] In some embodiments, the band may include one or more sensors (e.g., biometric sensors) that are not present on the wearable computing device. In such embodiments, the unique identifier may indicate that the band includes one or more sensors. Further, in such embodiments, the wearable computing device may operate to acquire data via one or more sensors present on the band. In this manner, the wearable computing device may provide additional functionality due, at least in part, to the presence of one or more sensors on the band.

[0083] At (912), method 900 may continue. For example, in some embodiments, method 900 may end. In alternative embodiments, method 900 may remain at (902) and continue acquiring data from one or more sensors of the wearable computing device until data acquired from one or more sensors of the wearable computing device indicates that the wearable computing device is not being worn by the user, allowing the method to proceed to (904).

[0084] Referring now to FIG. 12 , a flow diagram of an exemplary method 1000 for identifying a band of a wearable computing device is provided, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Method 1000 may be implemented, for example, by any of systems 200, 400, 500, 700 described above with reference to FIGS. 3 , 5 , 6 , and 8 . FIG. 12 shows steps performed in a particular order for purposes of illustration and explanation. Those skilled in the art and having access to the disclosure provided herein will understand that the various steps of method 1000, or any of the other methods disclosed herein, may be adapted, modified, rearranged, performed simultaneously, or variously altered without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0085] Method 1000 may include, at (1002), determining whether the wearable computing device is being worn by a user. In some embodiments, a first circuit on the wearable computing device may obtain data from one or more sensors configured to obtain data (e.g., motion data, heart rate data, etc.) indicative of whether the wearable computing device is being worn by a user. If the first circuit determines, based on the data from the one or more sensors, that the wearable computing device is being worn by a person, method 1000 proceeds to (1004). If not, method 1000 continues to (1012).

[0086] The method 1000 may include, at 1004, controlling operation of the switching device to electrically connect an energy storage device of the wearable computing device to a power interface of the wearable computing device. In this manner, power may be transferred from the energy storage device to circuitry included in a band removably coupled to a housing of the wearable computing device.

[0087] Method 1000 may include, at (1006), obtaining data (e.g., a unique identifier) ​​from circuitry included in the band. In some embodiments, the circuitry on the band may communicate the data to the wearable computing device via a power interface. More specifically, the circuitry on the band may communicate the data via power conductors of the power interface. In alternative embodiments, the circuitry on the band may communicate the data to the wearable computing device via a wireless network. After obtaining the data, method 1000 may proceed to (1008).

[0088] The method 1000 may include, at 1008, controlling operation of the switching device to disconnect an energy storage device of the wearable computing device from a power interface of the wearable computing device. In this manner, power may no longer be transmitted from the energy storage device to circuitry included in a band removably coupled to a housing of the wearable computing device.

[0089] Method 1000 may include, at 1010, controlling operation of the wearable computing device based at least in part on the data obtained from the circuitry on the band. For example, in some embodiments, a unique operation may be performed at an electronic output device of the wearable computing device based at least in part on the data obtained at 1006. In some embodiments, the electronic output device may include a display screen, and the color of at least a portion of the display screen may be changed based on an identification of the band removably coupled to a housing of the wearable computing device. For example, in some embodiments, the color of the background of the display screen may be changed to match the color of the band. It should be understood that in such embodiments, the color of the band may be identified based at least in part on the unique identifier of the band.

[0090] In some embodiments, the band may include one or more sensors (e.g., biometric sensors) that are not present on the wearable computing device. In such embodiments, the unique identifier may indicate that the band includes one or more sensors. Further, in such embodiments, the wearable computing device may operate to acquire data via one or more sensors present on the band. In this manner, the wearable computing device may provide additional functionality due, at least in part, to the presence of one or more sensors on the band.

[0091] At (1012), method 1000 may continue. For example, in some embodiments, method 1000 may end. Alternatively, method 1000 may remain at (1002) and continue acquiring data from one or more sensors of the wearable computing device until data acquired from one or more sensors of the wearable computing device indicates that the wearable computing device is not being worn by the user, allowing the method to proceed to (1004).

[0092] 13 , components of an exemplary computing system 1100 of a wearable computing device 100 that can be utilized in accordance with various embodiments are illustrated. Specifically, as shown, the computing system 1100 may also include at least one controller 1102. Moreover, in embodiments, the controller(s) 1102 may be a central processing unit (CPU) or a graphics processing unit (GPU) for executing instructions that may be stored in a memory device 1104, such as flash memory or DRAM, among other such options. For example, in embodiments, the memory device 1104 may include RAM, ROM, FLASH memory, or other non-transitory digital data storage, and the memory device 1104 may include a control program having a series of instructions that, when loaded from the memory device 1104 and executed using the controller(s) 1102, cause the controller(s) 1102 to perform the functions described herein.

[0093] The computing system 1100 may include many types of memory, data storage, or computer-readable media, such as data storage for program instructions executed by a controller or any suitable processor. The same or separate storage may be used for images or data, removable memory may be available for sharing information with other devices, and any number of communication techniques may be available for sharing with other devices. Additionally, as shown, the computing system 1100 includes a display 130, which may be a touchscreen, organic light-emitting diode (OLED), or liquid crystal display (LCD), although the device may communicate information through other means, such as through audio speakers, a projector, or by display casting or data streaming, to other devices, such as a mobile phone, where an application on the mobile phone displays the data.

[0094] Computing system 1100 also includes energy storage device 150, which is operable to be recharged via conventional plug-in techniques. In some embodiments, computing system 1100 may also include at least one additional I / O device 1110 capable of receiving conventional input from a user. This conventional input may include, for example, push buttons, a touchpad, a touchscreen, a wheel, a joystick, a keyboard, a mouse, a keypad, or any other device or element that allows a user to enter commands into computing system 1100. I / O device(s) 1110 may, in some embodiments, be connected by wireless infrared or Bluetooth, or in some embodiments, by other links. In some embodiments, computing system 1100 may include a microphone or other audio capture element to receive voice commands or other audio commands. In some embodiments, I / O device(s) 1110 may include one or more electrodes, optical sensors, barometric pressure sensors (e.g., altimeters, etc.), etc.

[0095] The computing system 1100 may include one or more wireless network components 1112 operable to communicate with one or more electronic devices within communication range of a particular wireless channel. The wireless channel may be any suitable channel used to allow devices to communicate wirelessly, such as a Bluetooth, cellular, NFC, ultra-wideband (UWB), or Wi-Fi channel. It should be understood that the computing system 1100 may have one or more conventional wired communication connections known in the art.

[0096] The computing system 1100 may include a driver 1114 and at least some combination of one or more emitters 1116 and one or more detectors 1118 that measure data of one or more metrics of a human body, such as a person wearing the wearable computing device 100. In some embodiments, this may include at least one image capture element, such as one or more cameras that can capture images of the surrounding environment and image the user, people, or objects in the device's vicinity. The image capture element may include any suitable technology, such as a CCD image capture element with sufficient resolution, focal range, and visibility to capture images of the user as the user operates the device. Additional image capture elements may also include depth sensors. Methods for capturing images using camera elements in conjunction with computing devices are well known in the art and will not be described in detail herein. It should be understood that image capture may be performed using a single image, multiple images, periodic imaging, continuous image capture, image streaming, etc. Additionally, computing system 1100 may include the capability to start and / or stop image capture upon receiving commands, for example, from a user, an application, or another device.

[0097] The emitter 1116 and detector 1118 may also be used to obtain photoplethysmogram (PPG) measurements, in one example. Some PPG techniques rely on detecting light at a single spatial location or adding signals obtained from two or more spatial locations. Both of these approaches result in a single spatial measurement from which a heart rate (HR) estimate (or other physiological metric) may be determined. In some embodiments, the PPG device uses a single light source (i.e., a single optical path) connected to a single detector. Alternatively, the PPG device may use multiple light sources (i.e., two or more optical paths) connected to a single detector or multiple detectors. In other embodiments, the PPG device uses multiple detectors (i.e., two or more optical paths) connected to a single light source or multiple light sources. In some cases, the light source(s) may be configured to emit one or more of green, red, infrared (IR) light, and any other suitable wavelengths in the spectrum (e.g., long-wavelength IR for metabolic monitoring). For example, the PPG device may use a single light source and two or more photodetectors, each configured to detect a specific wavelength or range of wavelengths. In some cases, each detector is configured to detect a different wavelength or wavelength range from the others. In other cases, two or more detectors are configured to detect the same wavelength or wavelength range. In still other cases, one or more detectors are configured to detect a particular wavelength or wavelength range that is different from one or more other detectors. In embodiments using multiple optical paths, the PPG device may determine an average value of the signals resulting from the multiple optical paths before determining an HR estimate or other physiological metric.

[0098] Further, in embodiments, the emitter 1116 and the detector 1118 may be directly or indirectly connected to the controller 1102 using driver circuits such that the controller 1102 may drive the emitter 1116 and obtain signals from the detector 1118. The host computer 1122 may communicate with the wireless network component 1112 via one or more networks 1120, which may include one or more local area networks, wide area networks, UWB, and / or internetworks using either terrestrial or satellite links. In some embodiments, the host computer 1122 executes control programs and / or applications.

[0099] Although the present subject matter has been described in detail with respect to various specific exemplary embodiments thereof, each example is provided by way of illustration and not by way of limitation of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art, upon understanding the foregoing, will be able to readily create modifications, variations, and equivalents of such embodiments. Accordingly, the present disclosure does not exclude the inclusion of such modifications, variations, and / or additions to the present subject matter as would be readily apparent to one skilled in the art. For example, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with other embodiments to yield still further embodiments. Accordingly, the present disclosure is intended to cover such modifications, variations, and equivalents.

Claims

1. 1. A wearable computing device, comprising: The housing and an energy storage device; a power interface configured to deliver power from the energy storage device to circuitry included in a band removably coupled to the housing; a switching device configured to selectively connect the energy storage device to the power interface; a processor; wherein the processor: connecting the energy storage device to the power interface and controlling operation of the switching device to deliver power to the circuitry included in the band; obtaining data from the circuitry on the band indicative of a unique identifier for the band; controlling operation of the wearable computing device based at least in part on the data indicative of the unique identifier of the band; 1. A wearable computing device configured to:

2. The wearable computing device of claim 1 , wherein the power interface includes a first conductor for electrical power and a second conductor for electrical ground.

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

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

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

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

7. The processor further comprises: configured to, in response to obtaining the data indicative of the unique identifier of the band, control operation of the switching device to disconnect the energy storage device from the power interface and cease delivering power to the circuitry included in the band. The wearable computing device of claim 1 .

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

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

10. The wearable computing device of claim 8 , wherein the unique identifier indicates one or more sensors included in the band.

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

12. The wearable computing device of claim 11 , wherein the processor is configured to acquire the data from the one or more sensors on the band via the power interface.

13. 1. A method for identifying a band coupled to a housing of a wearable computing device, comprising: controlling, via a processor of the wearable computing device, a switching device of the wearable computing device to electrically connect an energy storage device of the wearable computing device to a power interface of the wearable computing device and transmit power from the energy storage device to circuitry included in the band coupled to the housing of the wearable computing device; obtaining, via the processor, data from the circuitry on the band indicative of a unique identifier of the band; controlling, via the processor, operation of the wearable computing device based at least in part on the unique identifier of the band; A method comprising:

14. determining, via the processor of the wearable computing device, that the wearable computing device is not being worn by a user; In response to determining that the wearable computing device is not being worn by the user, controlling the switching device of the wearable computing device to electrically connect the energy storage device of the wearable computing device to the power interface of the wearable computing device and transmit power from the energy storage device to the circuitry included in the band coupled to the housing of the wearable computing device; 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising:

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

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

17. The method of claim 13 , wherein obtaining the unique identifier for the band includes obtaining, by the processor, the unique identifier from the circuitry on the band via the power interface.

18. responsive to obtaining the data indicative of the unique identifier of the band, controlling operation of the switching device to electrically disconnect the energy storage device from the power interface and cease transmitting power from the energy storage device to the circuitry included in the band; 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising:

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

20. the electronic output device includes a display screen; the unique identifier indicates a color of the band; controlling operation of the display screen includes adjusting a color of at least a portion of the display screen based at least in part on the color of the band.

20. The method of claim 19.

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