Wearable Device with Physiological Parameter Monitoring

Abstract

A wearable device can perform physiological measurements and can include a frame, an electrode configured to conduct an electrical signal originating from a user, and a substrate responsive to the electrical signal conducted by the electrode. The electrode can include a first portion having a surface configured to contact the user's skin, a second portion having a surface configured to contact the user's skin, and a third portion disposed between the first and second portions. The third portion can include a through-hole extending through the electrode and capable of receiving at least a portion of the frame. A portion of the frame can prevent the third portion from contacting the user's skin.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 386,474, filed December 7, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, and any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic priority claim, if any, is identified in the Application Data Sheet of this application are hereby incorporated by reference under 37 CFR 1.57.

[0002] The present disclosure relates to the field of non-invasive health monitoring, and more particularly to wearable health monitoring devices incorporating multiple sensors, including electrodes, for measuring electrical signals originating from a user's body. [Background technology]

[0003] The wearable device may be worn by a subject and may include a physiological sensor for monitoring the subject's physiological data and / or health status. The physiological sensor may include electrodes that contact the subject's skin and measure electrical signals arising from the subject. The electrical signals may be due to the subject's cardiac activity. Electrocardiography is a technique for measuring cardiac electrical activity. The cardiac electrical activity is captured by the electrodes, processed and / or analyzed by a hardware processing unit, and depicted as an ECG waveform.

[0004] Spectroscopy is a common technique for measuring the concentration of organic and some inorganic components of a solution. The theoretical basis of this technique is the Beer-Lambert law, which states that the optical path length d at a particular wavelength λ is λ , the intensity of the incident light I 0,λ , and the extinction coefficient ε i,λ If is known, the concentration of the absorbing substance in the solution, c i can be determined by the intensity of light transmitted through the solution.

[0005] In its generalized form, the Beer-Lambert law can be expressed as:

[0006]

number

[0007] where μ a,λ is the bulk absorption coefficient, which represents the absorption capacity per unit length. The minimum number of discrete wavelengths required to solve equations 1 and 2 is the number of significant absorbers present in the solution.

[0008] A practical application of this technique is pulse oximetry or plethysmography, which utilizes noninvasive sensors to measure oxygen saturation and pulse rate, among other physiological parameters. Pulse oximetry or plethysmography relies on sensors attached to the patient's exterior (typically, for example, at a fingertip, toe, ear, forehead, or other measurement site) to output signals indicative of various physiological parameters, such as the patient's blood constituents and / or analytes, including, among other physiological parameters, a percentage value for arterial oxygen saturation. The sensor has at least one emitter that transmits optical radiation of one or more wavelengths to a tissue site and at least one detector that responds to the intensity of the optical radiation (which may be reflected from or transmitted through the tissue site) after absorption by pulsating arterial blood flowing within the tissue site. Based on this response, a processing unit determines the relative concentrations of oxygenated hemoglobin (HbO2) and deoxygenated hemoglobin (Hb) in the blood to derive oxygen saturation and other physiological parameters that can provide early detection of potentially dangerous declines in the patient's oxygen supply.

[0009] A patient monitoring device may include a plethysmography sensor that can calculate oxygen saturation (SpO2), pulse rate, plethysmographic waveform, perfusion index (PI), pleth variability index (PVI), methemoglobin (MetHb), carboxyhemoglobin (CoHb), total hemoglobin (tHb), respiratory rate, glucose, and / or other parameters measured by the plethysmography sensor can be displayed on one or more monitors, such as individually, in groups, in trends, in combinations, as indicators of overall health, or as other indicators. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0010]

[0013] Each of the various implementations of the systems, methods, and devices within the scope of the appended claims has several aspects, no single one of which is solely responsible for the desirable attributes described herein. Without limiting the scope of the appended claims, the following description will set forth some prominent features.

[0011] Details of one or more implementations of the subject matter described herein are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the following description. Other features, aspects, and advantages will become apparent from the description, drawings, and claims. It should be noted that the relative dimensions of the following figures may not be drawn to scale.

[0012] The wearable device may perform physiological measurements and may include a frame, electrodes secured to the frame, and a substrate electrically connected to the electrodes and responsive to electrical signals generated by a user. The electrodes may conduct electrical signals generated by a user of the wearable device and may include a first portion, a second portion, a third portion, and an end portion. The first portion may have a surface configured to contact the user's skin. The second portion may have a surface configured to contact the user's skin. The third portion may be disposed between the first portion and the second portion and may include a surface extending away from the first portion and the second portion and separated from the user's skin when the first portion or the second portion contacts the user's skin. The third portion may further include a through-hole extending through the electrode and configured to receive at least a portion of the frame, and a cover portion of the frame may prevent the third portion from contacting the user's skin. The end portion may be adjacent to the first portion and extend away from the first portion at an angle.

[0013] In some implementations, the end portions are surrounded by a frame.

[0014] In some implementations, the frame prevents the end portions from contacting the user's skin.

[0015] In some implementations, the surface of the end portion does not contact the user's skin.

[0016] In some implementations, the end portion is substantially orthogonal to the first portion.

[0017] In some implementations, the end portion includes a through aperture extending therethrough, the through aperture configured to receive a protrusion on the frame to secure the electrode to the frame.

[0018] In some implementations, the wearable device may further include a fourth portion that may have a surface that is continuous with the surface of the second portion, extends away from the surface of the second portion, and is separated from the user's skin when the second portion contacts the user's skin, and a second through-hole that extends through the electrode and is configured to receive a conductive material configured to conduct an electrical signal generated from the user to the substrate.

[0019] In some implementations, the second cover portion of the frame prevents the fourth portion from contacting the user's skin.

[0020] In some implementations, the wearable device may further include a fifth portion having a surface that is continuous with the surface of the fourth portion and configured to contact the user's skin, and another end portion adjacent to the fifth portion, having a surface that is continuous with the surface of the fifth portion, and extending at an angle from the fifth portion.

[0021] In some implementations, the other end portion includes another through-opening extending therethrough, the other through-opening configured to receive another protrusion of the frame to secure the electrode to the frame.

[0022] In some implementations, the first portion is substantially semi-annular.

[0023] In some implementations, the first portion and the second portion form at least a portion of a semi-ring.

[0024] In some implementations, the surface of the third portion is contiguous with the surface of the first portion and the surface of the second portion.

[0025] In some implementations, the end portion comprises a surface that is continuous with a surface of the first portion.

[0026] In some implementations, the wearable device may further include a hardware processing unit coupled to the substrate and configured to access electrical signals conducted via the electrodes.

[0027] In some implementations, the hardware processing unit is configured to perform one or more electrocardiography techniques on the electrical signals conducted through the electrodes.

[0028] In some implementations, the hardware processing unit is configured to generate electrocardiography (ECG) waveforms from the electrical signals conducted through the electrodes.

[0029] In some implementations, the hardware processing unit is configured to determine one or more cardiac conditions of the user based at least on the electrical signals conducted through the electrodes.

[0030] In some implementations, the electrodes are configured to be secured to the frame without adhesive.

[0031] The wearable device may comprise an electrode capable of performing physiological measurements and configured to conduct electrical signals originating from a user of the wearable device, a hardware processing unit in electrical communication with the electrode and responsive to the electrical signals conducted by the electrode, and a frame configured to hold the electrode. The frame may comprise a first receiving portion configured to hold a first portion of the electrode adjacent to the user's skin for contacting the user's skin, a second receiving portion configured to hold a second portion of the electrode adjacent to the user's skin for contacting the user's skin, and a cover disposed between the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion and configured to cover a third portion of the electrode to secure the electrode to the frame, wherein the third portion of the electrode is prevented by the cover from contacting the user's skin.

[0032] In some implementations, the electrode includes a through hole disposed in a third portion of the electrode, the through hole extending from the first surface of the electrode to the second surface of the electrode, and the through hole configured to receive a portion of the frame extending from the cover to secure the electrode to the frame.

[0033] In some implementations, the third portion has an edge that is continuous with the edge of the first portion and the edge of the second portion, and the edge of the third portion forms a curvature that is inconsistent with the curvature formed by the edge of the first portion.

[0034] In some implementations, the electrode further comprises an end portion adjacent to the first portion, the end portion extending at an angle away from the first portion.

[0035] In some implementations, the end portion is substantially orthogonal to the first portion.

[0036] In some implementations, the end portion is surrounded by a frame of the wearable device.

[0037] In some implementations, the end portion includes a through-hole extending therethrough and configured to receive a portion of the frame to secure the electrode to the frame.

[0038] The wearable device may perform physiological measurements and may include a frame including protrusions, electrodes configured to conduct electrical signals originating from a user of the wearable device, and a substrate in electrical communication with the electrodes and responsive to the electrical signals originating from the user. The electrodes may include an outer surface configured to at least partially contact the user's skin, an inner surface opposite the outer surface, and through-holes extending through the electrode between the outer and inner surfaces, the through-holes configured to receive the protrusions to secure the electrodes to the frame.

[0039] In some implementations, at least a portion of the outer surface of the electrode is prevented by the frame from contacting the user's skin.

[0040] In some implementations, the electrode further comprises a substantially semi-cylindrical portion having a surface that forms at least a portion of an outer surface of the electrode, and the through hole extends through the substantially semi-cylindrical portion between the outer surface and the inner surface.

[0041] In some implementations, the substantially semi-cylindrical portion extends away from the user's skin such that a surface of the substantially semi-cylindrical portion does not contact the user's skin.

[0042] In some implementations, the electrode further comprises an end portion extending from the electrode at an angle relative to a portion of the electrode adjacent the end portion, the end portion being surrounded by a frame of the wearable device.

[0043] The wearable device may comprise an electrode capable of performing physiological measurements and configured to conduct electrical signals originating from a user of the wearable device. The electrode may comprise an outer surface configured to at least partially contact the skin of the user, an inner surface opposite the outer surface, and a through-hole extending through the electrode from the outer surface to the inner surface, the through-hole configured to receive a conductive material configured to contact the through-hole for receiving electrical signals conducted by the electrode. The wearable device may further comprise a frame configured to hold the electrode and a substrate in electrical communication with the electrode via the conductive material and configured to receive electrical signals from the electrode via the conductive material.

[0044] In some implementations, at least a portion of the outer surface of the electrode is prevented by the frame from contacting the user's skin.

[0045] In some implementations, the electrode further comprises a substantially semi-cylindrical portion having a surface that forms at least a portion of an outer surface of the electrode, and the through hole extends through the substantially semi-cylindrical portion between the outer surface and the inner surface.

[0046] In some implementations, the substantially semi-cylindrical portion extends away from the user's skin such that a surface of the substantially semi-cylindrical portion does not contact the user's skin.

[0047] In some implementations, the electrode further comprises an end portion extending from the electrode at an angle relative to a portion of the electrode adjacent the end portion, the end portion being surrounded by a frame of the wearable device.

[0048] A wearable device may include an electrode capable of performing physiological measurements and configured to conduct electrical signals originating from a user of the wearable device. The electrode may include: a first portion configured to contact the user's skin and having a substantially semicircular edge; a second portion configured to contact the user's skin and having a substantially semicircular edge defining at least a portion of a circle that coincides with the substantially semicircular edge of the first portion; and a third portion disposed between the first and second portions and having an edge that is continuous with the substantially semicircular edges of the first and second portions, where the edge of the third portion does not coincide with the first and second circles. The wearable device may further include a frame configured to secure to the electrode and a substrate in electrical communication with the electrode and responsive to the electrical signals originating from the user.

[0049] In some implementations, at least a portion of the frame covers the third portion.

[0050] In some implementations, the third portion is separated from the user's skin when the first portion or the second portion contacts the user's skin.

[0051] In some implementations, the electrode further comprises an end portion adjacent to the first portion, having a surface continuous with a surface of the first portion, and extending at an angle from the first portion.

[0052] In some implementations, the third portion includes a through-hole extending through the electrode, the through-hole configured to receive at least a portion of the frame.

[0053] In some implementations, the edge of the third portion intersects the circle.

[0054] The wearable device may comprise an electrode capable of performing physiological measurements and configured to conduct electrical signals originating from a user of the wearable device. The electrode may comprise a first portion having a substantially semi-conical surface configured to contact the user's skin, a second portion having a substantially semi-conical surface configured to contact the user's skin, and a third portion having a substantially semi-cylindrical surface disposed between the first and second portions and prevented from contacting the user's skin by at least a portion of a frame of the wearable device. The wearable device may further comprise a substrate in electrical communication with the electrode and responsive to the electrical signals originating from the user.

[0055] The wearable device may comprise an electrode capable of performing physiological measurements and configured to conduct electrical signals originating from a user of the wearable device. The electrode may comprise a first portion having a surface configured to contact the skin of the user and an end portion adjacent to the first portion and extending at an angle from the first portion, the end portion being surrounded by a frame of the wearable device. The wearable device may further comprise a substrate in electrical communication with the electrode and responsive to the electrical signals originating from the user.

[0056] In some implementations, the end portion extends orthogonally from the first portion.

[0057] In some implementations, the surface of the end portion is prevented by the frame from contacting the user's skin.

[0058] In some implementations, the end portion includes a through-hole configured to receive at least a portion of the frame to secure the electrode to the frame.

[0059] In some implementations, the end portion comprises a surface that is continuous with a surface of the first portion.

[0060] In some implementations, the first portion comprises an edge that defines at least a portion of the curvature, and a surface of the end portion is parallel to a plane intersected by the curvature.

[0061] In some implementations, the edge of the first portion is substantially semicircular and the curvature is substantially circular.

[0062] The wearable device may be capable of performing physiological measurements and may include: a first strap secured to a first end of the wearable device; a second strap secured to a second end of the wearable device opposite the first end, the first strap and the second strap configured to secure the wearable device to a user; a first electrode configured to conduct electrical signals originating from the user, the first electrode intersecting a first axis of the wearable device that is substantially parallel to a line extending along the length of the first strap and the second strap between the first and second ends of the wearable device and intersecting a second axis of the wearable device that is orthogonal to the first axis; and a second electrode configured to conduct electrical signals originating from the user, the center of mass of the second electrode being offset from the center of mass of the first electrode.

[0063] In some implementations, the center of mass of the first electrode is offset from the first axis.

[0064] In some implementations, the center of mass of the first electrode is offset from the second axis.

[0065] In some implementations, the first electrode is symmetrical about a line extending through the center of mass of the first electrode.

[0066] In some implementations, a third axis of the wearable device bisects the first electrode, and the third axis intersects the first axis and the second axis.

[0067] In some implementations, the first axis of the wearable device is substantially perpendicular to a line extending along the length of the user's forearm to which the wearable device is secured.

[0068] In some implementations, the second axis of the wearable device is substantially parallel to a line extending along the length of the user's forearm to which the wearable device is secured.

[0069] In some implementations, the first electrode is substantially semi-annular.

[0070] In some implementations, the second electrode is substantially semi-annular.

[0071] In some implementations, the first electrode is substantially a half ring.

[0072] The wearable device may be configured to perform physiological measurements. The wearable device may include a first strap, a second strap, a first electrode, and a second electrode. The first strap may be secured to a first end of the wearable device. The second strap may be secured to a second end of the wearable device. The first strap and the second strap may be configured to secure the wearable device to a user. The first electrode may be configured to measure cardiac electrical signals through contact with the user's skin. The center of mass of the first electrode may be offset from a first axis of the wearable device that is substantially parallel to a line extending along the length of the first strap and the second strap between the first end and the second end of the wearable device. The center of mass of the first electrode may be offset from a second axis of the wearable device that is substantially orthogonal to the first axis. The second electrode may be configured to measure cardiac electrical signals through contact with the user's skin.

[0073] In some implementations, the first axis of the wearable device is substantially perpendicular to a line extending along the length of the user's forearm to which the wearable device is secured.

[0074] In some implementations, the wearable device has a smaller moment of inertia about the first axis than about other axes in the same plane as the first axis.

[0075] In some implementations, the wearable device is more likely to rotate about the first axis than about other axes in the same plane as the first axis.

[0076] In some implementations, the second axis of the wearable device is substantially parallel to a line extending along the length of the user's forearm to which the wearable device is secured.

[0077] In some implementations, the center of mass of the first electrode is offset from the center of mass of the second electrode.

[0078] In some implementations, the center of mass of the first electrode is offset from the center of mass of the wearable device.

[0079] In some implementations, the center of mass of the second electrode is offset from the center of mass of the wearable device.

[0080] In some implementations, the first electrode is substantially semi-annular.

[0081] In some implementations, the second electrode is substantially semi-annular.

[0082] In some implementations, the first electrode is substantially a half ring.

[0083] The wearable device may be configured to perform physiological measurements. The wearable device may include a first strap, a second strap, a first electrode, and a second electrode. The first strap may be secured to a first end of the wearable device. The second strap may be secured to a second end of the wearable device. The first strap and the second strap may be configured to secure the wearable device to a user. The first electrode may be configured to measure cardiac electrical signals through contact with the user's skin. The center of mass of the first electrode may be located on a first axis of the wearable device. The first axis may be non-parallel to a line extending along the length of the first strap and the second strap between the first end and the second end of the wearable device. The first axis may be non-orthogonal to a line extending along the length of the first strap and the second strap between the first end and the second end of the wearable device. The second electrode may be configured to measure cardiac electrical signals through contact with the user's skin. The center of mass of the first electrode may be offset from the center of mass of the second electrode.

[0084] In some implementations, the first axis of the wearable device is non-parallel to a line extending along the length of the user's forearm to which the wearable device is secured.

[0085] In some implementations, the wearable device has a larger moment of inertia about the first axis than about other axes in the same plane as the first axis.

[0086] In some implementations, the wearable device is less likely to rotate about the first axis than about other axes in the same plane as the first axis.

[0087] In some implementations, the center of mass of the first electrode is offset from the center of mass of the wearable device.

[0088] In some implementations, the center of mass of the second electrode is offset from the center of mass of the wearable device.

[0089] In some implementations, the first electrode is substantially semi-annular.

[0090] In some implementations, the second electrode is substantially semi-annular.

[0091] In some implementations, the first electrode is substantially a half ring.

[0092] The wearable device may be configured to perform physiological measurements. The wearable device may include a first strap, a second strap, a first electrode, and a second electrode. The first strap may be secured to a first end of the wearable device. The second strap may be secured to a second end of the wearable device. The first strap and the second strap may be configured to secure the wearable device to a user. The first electrode may be configured to measure cardiac electrical signals through contact with the user's skin. The first electrode may intersect a first axis of the wearable device that is orthogonal to a line extending along the length of the first strap and the second strap between the first end and the second end of the wearable device. The first electrode may intersect a second axis of the wearable device that is substantially orthogonal to the first axis. The second electrode may be configured to measure cardiac electrical signals through contact with the user's skin. The center of mass of the first electrode may be offset from the center of mass of the second electrode.

[0093] In some implementations, the wearable device has a smaller moment of inertia about the first axis than about other axes in the same plane, ie, the wearable device is more likely to tilt or rotate about the first axis than about other axes in the same plane.

[0094] In some implementations, the wearable device is more likely to rotate about the first axis than about other axes of the wearable device in the same plane as the first axis.

[0095] In some implementations, the wearable device has a smaller moment of inertia about the second axis than about other axes in the same plane, ie, the wearable device is more likely to tilt or rotate about the second axis than about other axes in the same plane.

[0096] In some implementations, the wearable device is more likely to rotate about the second axis than about other axes of the wearable device in the same plane as the second axis.

[0097] In some implementations, the first axis of the wearable device is substantially parallel to a line extending along the length of the user's forearm to which the wearable device is secured.

[0098] In some implementations, the center of mass of the first electrode is offset from the center of mass of the wearable device.

[0099] In some implementations, the center of mass of the second electrode is offset from the center of mass of the wearable device.

[0100] In some implementations, the first electrode is substantially semi-annular.

[0101] In some implementations, the second electrode is substantially semi-annular.

[0102] In some implementations, the first electrode is substantially a half ring.

[0103] The wearable device may be configured to perform physiological measurements. The wearable device may include a first strap, a second strap, a first electrode, and a second electrode. The first strap may be secured to a first end of the wearable device. The second strap may be secured to a second end of the wearable device. The first strap and the second strap may be configured to secure the wearable device to a user. The first electrode may be configured to measure cardiac electrical signals through contact with the user's skin. An axis of the wearable device that is non-parallel to a line extending along the length of the first strap and the second strap between the first end and the second end of the wearable device may bisect the first electrode. The second electrode may be configured to measure cardiac electrical signals through contact with the user's skin. The center of mass of the first electrode may be offset from the center of mass of the second electrode.

[0104] In some implementations, the first axis of the wearable device is non-parallel to a line extending along the length of the user's forearm to which the wearable device is secured.

[0105] In some implementations, the wearable device has a larger moment of inertia about the first axis than about other axes in the same plane as the first axis, ie, the wearable device is less likely to tilt or rotate about the first axis than about other axes in the same plane.

[0106] In some implementations, the wearable device is less likely to rotate about the first axis than about other axes in the same plane as the first axis.

[0107] In some implementations, a line extending along the length of the first strap and the second strap between the first end and the second end of the wearable device coincides with a second axis of the wearable device, where the wearable device has a smaller moment of inertia than other axes of the wearable device in the same plane as the second axis.

[0108] In some implementations, a line extending along the length of the first strap and the second strap between the first end and the second end of the wearable device coincides with a second axis of the wearable device about which the wearable device is more likely to rotate than other axes of the wearable device in the same plane as the second axis.

[0109] In some implementations, the center of mass of the first electrode is offset from the center of mass of the wearable device.

[0110] In some implementations, the center of mass of the second electrode is offset from the center of mass of the wearable device.

[0111] In some implementations, the first electrode is substantially semi-annular.

[0112] In some implementations, the second electrode is substantially semi-annular.

[0113] In some implementations, the first electrode is substantially a half ring.

[0114] The wearable device may be configured to perform physiological measurements. The wearable device may include a sensor or module. The sensor or module may include a frame, an electrode, and a substrate. The frame may include one or more receiving portions. The electrode may be disposed within the frame. The electrode may include an outer surface. The outer surface may be configured to contact the skin of a user of the wearable device via the one or more receiving portions. Less than all of the outer surface may be configured to contact the skin of the user. The substrate may be in electrical communication with the electrode.

[0115] In some implementations, the outer surface further comprises recessed portions that are prevented from contacting the user's skin, the recessed portions being disposed between portions of the outer surface that are configured to contact the user's skin.

[0116] The wearable device is configured to perform physiological measurements. The wearable device may include a sensor or module. The sensor or module may include an electrode, a frame, and a substrate. The electrode may include a first portion configured to contact the user's skin, a second portion configured to contact the user's skin, and a recessed portion disposed between the first and second portions. The frame may include a first receiving portion configured to expose the first portion of the electrode to the user's skin, a second receiving portion configured to expose the second portion of the electrode to the user's skin, and a cover portion disposed between the first and second receiving portions and configured to enclose the recessed portion. The substrate may be in electrical connection with the electrode.

[0117] In some implementations, the cover portion is further configured to prevent the recessed portion from contacting the skin of a user.

[0118] In some implementations, the cover portion is further configured to secure the recessed portion to the frame to prevent the electrode from moving relative to the frame.

[0119] The wearable device may be configured to perform physiological measurements. The wearable device may include a sensor module. The sensor module may include a frame, an electrode, and a substrate. The frame may include a protrusion. The electrode may be secured to the frame. The electrode may include an outer surface configured to contact the user's skin, an inner surface opposite the outer surface, and an opening through the electrode between the outer surface and the inner surface. The opening may be configured to receive the protrusion to secure the electrode to the frame. The substrate may be in electrical contact with the electrode.

[0120] In some implementations, the opening is disposed in a plane that is substantially parallel to a plane in which a portion of the exterior surface adjacent the opening is disposed.

[0121] The wearable device may be configured to perform physiological measurements. The wearable device may include a sensor or module. The sensor or module may include a frame, an electrode, and a substrate. The electrode may be disposed within the frame. The electrode may include an outer surface configured to contact the user's skin. The outer surface may be substantially non-planar. The substrate may be in electrical communication with the electrode.

[0122] In some implementations, the outer surface of the electrode forms a partial substantially conical surface.

[0123] In some implementations, the outer surface of the electrode forms a partial substantially spherical surface.

[0124] In some implementations, the outer surface of the electrode is substantially convex.

[0125] In some implementations, the frame has an outer surface configured to contact the user's skin, the outer surface of the frame is substantially convex, and the outer surface of the electrode is flush with the outer surface of the frame.

[0126] In some implementations, the outer surface of the electrode is non-parallel to the substantially planar surface of the substrate.

[0127] The wearable device may be configured to perform physiological measurements. The wearable device may include a sensor or module. The sensor or module may include a frame, a substrate, and an electrode. The electrode may be disposed within the frame. The electrode may be in electrical communication with the substrate. The electrode may have an outer surface configured to contact the user's skin. A portion of the outer surface may be non-parallel to the surface of the substrate.

[0128] In some implementations, a majority of the outer surface is non-parallel to the surface of the substrate.

[0129] For purposes of summary, certain aspects, advantages, and novel features are described herein. It will, of course, be understood that not all such aspects, advantages, or features need be present in any particular embodiment.

[0130] Various combinations of the features, implementations, and aspects listed above and below are also disclosed and contemplated by this disclosure.

[0131] Additional implementations of the present disclosure are described below with reference to the appended claims, which may serve as an additional summary of the present disclosure.

[0132] The drawings and associated description are provided to illustrate aspects of the present disclosure and not to limit the scope of the claims. In this disclosure, "bottom" refers to the side facing toward the wearer's wrist when the example wearable device disclosed herein is worn on the wearer's wrist, and "top" refers to the side facing away from the wearer's wrist. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0133] [Figure 1A] 1 is a diagram of an example of a wearable device including a sensor or module for measuring physiological parameters, worn on the wrist using a strap. FIG. [Figure 1B] 1 is a diagram of an example of a wearable device including a sensor or module for measuring physiological parameters, worn on the wrist using a strap. FIG. [Figure 1C] 1 is a diagram of an example of a wearable device including a sensor or module for measuring physiological parameters, worn on the wrist using a strap. FIG. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a non-limiting example network of devices that can communicate with the wearable device disclosed herein. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a schematic system diagram of a wearable device including a physiological parameter measurement module. [Figure 4A]FIG. 1 is a schematic system diagram of an example wearable device including a physiological parameter measurement module. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a schematic diagram of an example of the device processing unit shown in FIG. 4A. [Figure 4C] FIG. 4B is a schematic system diagram of an example processing device for the sensor or module shown in FIG. 4A. [Figure 4D] FIG. 4D is a block diagram of an example of a front-end circuit of a processing unit of the sensor or module of FIG. 4C. [Figure 5A] FIG. 1 is a front view of an example embodiment of a physiological parameter measurement sensor or module. [Figure 5B] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of an example embodiment of a physiological parameter measurement sensor or module. [Figure 6A] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a PCB board of a physiological parameter measurement sensor or module with an example of a plethysmography sensor arrangement. [Figure 6B] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a sensor or module for measuring a physiological parameter and an example of an optical path between an emitter and a detector of the module. [Figure 6C] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a sensor or module for measuring a physiological parameter and an example of an optical path between an emitter and a detector of the module. [Figure 6D] 1A and 1B show examples of physiological parameter measurement sensors or modules and examples of light barriers or blocks between the emitters of the modules and the detector chambers. [Figure 6E] 1A and 1B show examples of physiological parameter measurement sensors or modules and examples of light barriers or blocks between the emitters of the modules and the detector chambers. [Figure 6F] 1A and 1B show examples of physiological parameter measurement sensors or modules and examples of light barriers or blocks between the emitters of the modules and the detector chambers. [Figure 6G] 1A and 1B show examples of physiological parameter measurement sensors or modules and examples of light barriers or blocks between the emitters of the modules and the detector chambers. [Figure 6H] 1A-1C illustrate examples of physiological parameter measurement sensors or modules and examples of light diffusing materials and light transmitting lenses or covers. [Figure 7A] FIG. 1 is a diagram of an example of a wearable device with electrodes. [Figure 7B] FIG. 1 is a diagram of an example of a wearable device. [Figure 7C] FIG. 1 is a diagram of an example of a wearable device with electrodes. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a diagram of an example of a sensor or module with electrodes. [Figure 9A] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of an example sensor or module for a wearable device. [Figure 9B] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of an example sensor or module for a wearable device. [Figure 10A] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an example sensor or module. [Figure 10B] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an example of a frame of a sensor or module. [Figure 11] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an electrode and substrate of a sensor or module. [Figure 12A] FIG. 1 is a side view of an example electrode. [Figure 12B] FIG. 1 is a side view of an example electrode. [Figure 13A] FIG. 1 is a side view of an example electrode. [Figure 13B] FIG. 1 is a side view of an example electrode. [Figure 13C] 1 is a perspective view of an example of an electrode. [Figure 14] 1 is a perspective cross-sectional view of an example of a frame for a sensor or module. [Figure 15] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an example of a frame of a sensor or module. [Figure 16] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of an aspect of a wearable device communicating with an external device over a network. [Figure 17] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a user interface of a health application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0134] Although specific embodiments and examples are described below, those skilled in the art will understand that the disclosure extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments and / or uses and obvious variations and equivalents based on the disclosure herein. Accordingly, it is not intended that the scope of the disclosure disclosed herein should be limited by any specific embodiments described below.

[0135] The use of a wearable health care monitoring device that may include oximetry or plethysmography-based parameters and / or ECG physiological parameters may be beneficial to a wearer. FIG. 1A illustrates an example implementation of a wearable device 110A. The device 110A may be a wristwatch (also referred to as a "watch") that may incorporate one or more sensors, including a physiological sensor, and a time-indicating function. The device 110A may include a strap 112A for releasably securing the device 110A around the wearer's wrist 2. The strap 112A may be adjustable to accommodate various sizes of wrists or other body parts to which the device 110A is secured. Of course, this specification is not limited to watches and may include other implementations. For example, the device 110A may be worn on the wrist without a timepiece, a screen, or other smartwatch features. As another example, the device 110A may be worn on other parts of the wearer's body besides the wrist 2, such as the arm, leg, or ankle.

[0136] Device 110A may include a display 111A, which may display one or more of the measured physiological parameters. The information may be useful in providing feedback to the wearer and / or a third-party user, such as a health care professional or the wearer's family, when the wearer is exercising, or may be useful for alerting the wearer to possible health conditions, including, but not limited to, changes in the wearer's physiological parameters in response to medications prescribed for the wearer. The wearer may be notified by wearable device 110A of physiological parameters such as vital signs, including, but not limited to, heart rate (or pulse rate) and oxygen saturation.

[0137] FIG. 1B is a perspective view of an example of a wearable device 110B. The wearable device 110B may be a wearable device such as a smartwatch. The device 110B may include a display 111B. The display 111B may be an LED display. The display 111B may be configured to display the day, month, date, year, and / or time. The display 111B may display the time as analog or digital. The display 111B may display physiologically related data, such as a physiological parameter, a physiological trend, or a physiological graph. For example, the display 111B may display a heart rate, a respiratory rate, ECG data, SpO2, a step count for the number of steps taken by a user of the device 110B, etc.

[0138] The device 110B may include one or more straps 112B, which may be adjustable and may be configured to secure the device 110B to a part of the user's body, such as the wrist.

[0139] FIG. 1C is a perspective view of an example wearable device 110C. The device 110C may include one or more straps 112C. The device 110C may include a physiological parameter measurement sensor or module 100C configured to measure indications of physiological parameters of the wearer, which may include, for example, heart rate, pulse rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation (SpO2), pleth variability index (PVI), perfusion index (PI), respiration from pulse (RRp), hydration, glucose, blood pressure, ECG, and / or other parameters. The sensor or module 100C may perform spectroscopy, plethysmography, oximetry, electrocardiography, and / or the like. The sensor or module 100C may perform intermittent and / or continuous monitoring of the measured parameters. The sensor or module 100C may additionally and / or alternatively perform spot testing of the measured parameters, for example, based on a request by the wearer.

[0140] The physiological parameter measurement sensor or module 100C may include an optical sensor, which may include an emitter and / or a detector. The emitter may emit light of various wavelengths that can penetrate the user's tissue. The detector may detect the light emitted by the emitter and generate one or more signals based at least in part on the light emitted and detected by the emitter. The detector may generate data related to the blood oxygen saturation of the user of the device 110C. The detector may generate data related to spectroscopy.

[0141] The physiological parameter measurement sensor or module 100C may include one or more electrodes that can contact the user's skin and measure electrical activity, and can obtain data about the user's cardiac activity to generate ECG data.

[0142] Wearable device 10 can be used in a standalone manner and / or in combination with other devices and / or sensors. As shown in FIG. 2 , device 10 can connect (e.g., wirelessly) with multiple devices, including, but not limited to, patient monitors 202 (e.g., bedside monitors such as Masimo's Radical-7®, Rad-97® (optionally with noninvasive blood pressure or NomoLine capnography), and Rad-8® bedside monitors, patient monitoring and connectivity hubs such as Masimo's Root® Platform, any portable patient monitoring devices, and any other wearable patient monitoring devices), mobile communication devices 204 (e.g., smartphones), computers 206 (which may be laptops or desktops), tablets 208, nurse station systems 210, and / or eyeglasses, such as smart glasses, configured to display images on their surfaces. The wireless connection can be based on Bluetooth technology, WiFi, near-field communication (NFC) technology, etc. The wearable device 10 can also be connected to a computing network 212 (e.g., via any of the connected devices disclosed herein or directly). The network 212 can comprise a local area network (LAN), personal area network (PAN), metropolitan area network (MAN), wide area network (WAN), or the like, allowing geographically distributed devices, systems, databases, servers, and the like to be connected (e.g., wirelessly) and communicate (e.g., transmit data) with each other. Via the network 212, the wearable device 10 can establish connections to one or more electronic medical record systems 214, remote servers with databases 216, and the like.

[0143] Device 10 may include an open architecture to allow for the connection of third-party wireless sensors and / or to allow third-party access to sensors in or connected to wearable device 10. The sensors may include, for example, temperature sensors, altimeters, gyroscopes, accelerometers, emitters, LEDs, etc. Third-party applications may be installed on wearable device 10 and use data from one or more of the sensors in and / or in electrical communication with wearable device 10.

[0144] 3 is a schematic diagram of a wearable device 350 showing examples of various components. The device 350 may include a device processing unit 364, which may be a digital / analog chip or other processing unit, such as a digital watch processing unit or a smartwatch processing unit. The device processing unit 364 may comprise one or more hardware processing units configured to execute program instructions that cause the device processing unit 364 or other components of the device 350 to perform one or more operations. The device processing unit 364 may be located on a substrate, such as a printed circuit board (PCB). The device processing unit 364 may generate display data for rendering a display or user interface on the display 312.

[0145] The device 350 may include a power source 366, which may be a battery, for powering components of the device 350, such as the device processing unit 364 and / or the physiological data measurement module 340. The power source 366 may include a dual battery configuration with a main battery and a backup battery. Additionally or alternatively, the device 350 may be configured to be solar-powered, for example, by including a solar panel on the face or elsewhere on the wearable device 350.

[0146] The display 312 may include an LED display. The display 312 may use electronic ink or ULP (ultra-low power screen) technology, which draws a small amount of current to display information. The display 312 may automatically adjust brightness, becoming brighter when outdoors and dimmer when indoors, to further extend battery life. The display screen 312 may display physiological parameters monitored by sensors or module 340, or a combination thereof.

[0147] Device 350 may comprise a memory component 363. Memory component 363 may comprise any computer-readable storage medium and / or device (or collection of data storage media and / or devices), including, but not limited to, one or more memory devices that store data, including, without limitation, dynamic and / or static random access memory (RAM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), optical disks (e.g., CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, etc.), magnetic disks (e.g., hard disk, floppy disk, etc.), and / or memory circuits (e.g., solid-state drives, random access memory (RAM), etc.). Such stored data may be processed and / or unprocessed physiological data obtained from physiological sensors.

[0148] Device 350 may include a communications component 365 that can facilitate communication (via wired and / or wireless connections) between device 350 (and / or its components) and another device, such as another wearable device, a mobile device, a monitoring device, a monitoring hub, a computing device, a sensor, a system, or a server. For example, communications component 365 can be configured to cause device 350 to communicate wirelessly with other devices, systems, and / or networks via any of a variety of communications protocols. Communications component 365 can be configured to use any of a variety of wireless communications protocols, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ZigBee, Z-wave, cellular, infrared, near field communication (NFC), radio frequency identification (RFID), satellite communications, proprietary protocols, and combinations thereof. Communications component 365 enables data and / or instructions to be sent to and / or received from device 350 and another computing device. The communication component 365 can be configured to transmit and / or receive processed and / or unprocessed physiological data with another computing device (e.g., wirelessly). The communication component 365 may be embodied with one or more components in communication with each other. The communication component 365 may include one or more wireless transceivers, one or more antennas, one or more radios, and / or near field communication (NFC) components such as a transponder.

[0149] The sensor or module 340 of the wearable device 350 may include a sensor or module processing unit 348. The sensor or module processing unit 348 may include one or more hardware processing units configured to execute program instructions that cause the sensor or module processing unit 348 to perform one or more operations. The sensor or module processing unit 348 may include memory and / or other electronics. The sensor or module processing unit 348 may be located on a substrate, such as a PCB. The sensor or module processing unit 348 may be in electrical communication with the emitter 341, thermistor 343, detector 345, gyroscope 342, accelerometer 344, and / or electrodes 354, 355.

[0150] The physiological data measurement module 340 may be configured to measure indications of the wearer's physiological parameters, which may include, for example, pulse rate, respiration rate, SpO2, pleth variability index (PVI), perfusion index (PI), respiration from pulse (RRp), total hemoglobin (SpHb), hydration, glucose, blood pressure, and / or other parameters. The sensor or module 340 may perform intermittent and / or continuous monitoring of the measured parameters. The sensor or module 340 may additionally and / or alternatively perform spot testing of the measured parameters, for example, based on a request by the wearer.

[0151] The sensor or module's processing unit 348 can determine and output a physiological parameter based on the detected signal for display on the device display 312. The sensor or module's processing unit 348 can generate display data for rendering a display or user interface on the display 312. Optionally, the sensor or module 340 can send a signal (e.g., a preprocessed signal) from the detector 345 to the device processing unit 364, which can determine and output a physiological parameter for display based on the detected signal.

[0152] The sensor or module's processing unit 348 can process signals from one or more of the sensors of the sensor or module 340 (or optionally other sensors in communication with the device 350) to determine a plurality of physiological parameters. The sensor or module's processing unit 348 can be configured to drive the emitter 341 to emit light of different wavelengths and / or to process signals from the detector 345 of attenuated light after absorption by the wearer's body tissue. The absorption of light can be via transmittance / reflectance by the wearer's body tissue, such as by pulsating arterial blood flowing through capillaries (and optionally arteries) in the tissue site (e.g., wrist) where the device 350 is worn.

[0153] The sensor or module 340 may include multiple light emitters 341. The emitters 341 may include light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The emitters 341 may include two or more groups or collections of light emitters 341. In some implementations, each group or collection of emitters 341 may include five emitters or four or fewer emitters. The detectors 345 may include light-sensitive photodetectors or photodiodes. The detectors 345 may include two or more groups or collections of detectors 345. In some implementations, each group or collection of detectors 345 may include a single detector or two or more detectors. Each group of emitters 341 may be configured to emit five different wavelengths, such as those described herein.

[0154] The sensor or module 340 may include one or more thermistors 343 or other types of temperature sensors. The thermistors 343 may be positioned near one or more groups of emitters 341. There may be at least one thermistor 343 near each group of emitters 341. Optionally, the device 350 may include one or more thermistors 343 positioned elsewhere in the sensor or module 340. The thermistors 343 may provide wavelength correction for the light emitted by the emitters 341. Optionally, the thermistors 343 may additionally measure the temperature of a wearer of the device 350. The emitters 341, thermistors 343, and / or detectors 345 may be positioned on a substrate, such as a PCB.

[0155] The emitter 341 of the module 340 may be configured to emit multiple (e.g., three, four, five, or more) wavelengths. The emitter 341 may be configured to emit light of a first wavelength that provides an intensity signal that can act as a reference signal. The first wavelength may be more absorbed by the human body than other wavelengths of light emitted by the emitter 341. The reference signal may be used by the module processing unit 348 to extract information from other signals, such as information related to and / or indicative of pulse rate, harmonics, or other factors. The module processing unit 348 may focus analysis on the extracted information to calculate physiological parameters of the wearer. The first wavelength may include, for example, a range of wavelengths from about 530 nm to about 650 nm, or from about 580 nm to about 585 nm, or from about 645 nm to about 650 nm, or including about 580 nm or about 645 nm. The light providing the reference signal may have an orange or yellow color. Alternatively, the light providing the reference signal may have a green color.

[0156] The emitter 341 may be configured to emit light at a second wavelength having a red or orange color. The second wavelength may be from about 620 nm to about 660 nm. The second wavelength may be more sensitive to changes in SpO2. The second wavelength is preferably closer to 620 nm (e.g., about 625 nm), which results in greater absorption by the wearer's body tissue and, in turn, a stronger signal and / or a steeper curvature in the signal relative to wavelengths closer to 660 nm. The module processing unit 348 may extract information, such as the waveform of the pulse wave, from the second wavelength signal.

[0157] Emitter 341 can be configured to emit light at a third wavelength of about 900 nm to about 910 nm, or about 905 nm, or about 907 nm. The third wavelength can be in the infrared range. The third wavelength can be used as a normalization wavelength when the pulse oximetry processing device calculates the ratio of intensity signals of other wavelengths, such as the ratio of the intensity signal of the second wavelength (red) to the intensity signal of the third wavelength (infrared).

[0158] Additionally or optionally, emitter 341 may be configured to emit light having a fourth wavelength that is more sensitive to changes in water than the rest of the emitted wavelengths. The fourth wavelength may be in the infrared range, may be about 970 nm, or may be greater than about 970 nm. Module processing unit 348 may determine a physiological parameter, such as the wearer's hydration status, based at least in part on a comparison of the intensity signal of the fourth wavelength with the intensity signals of different wavelengths detected by specific detector 345.

[0159] Emitter 341 may be configured to emit light at a fifth wavelength, each of the emitted wavelengths being different from the others.

[0160] In some embodiments, the driver can drive the emitter at various intensities. The intensity at which the driver drives the emitter can affect the amount of light (e.g., lumens) output, the strength of the output optical signal, and / or the distance the output light travels. The driver can drive the emitter at various intensities according to modeling, logic, and / or algorithms. The logic and / or algorithms can be based, at least in part, on various inputs. The inputs can include historical data, such as the amount of light attenuated as the light penetrates and travels through the wearer's tissue, the amount of blood the light interacts with, or the type of blood (e.g., vein, artery) or blood vessel (e.g., capillary, arteriole) the light interacts with, and / or the heat generated by the emitter. For example, the driver can increase the intensity at which the driver drives the emitter based on a determination that too much light is being attenuated in the tissue or that the light is not interacting with enough blood. As another example, the driver can decrease the intensity at which the driver drives the emitter based on a determination that the emitter has exceeded a threshold temperature. The threshold temperature may be a temperature that may be uncomfortable for human skin.

[0161] In some embodiments, each of the drivers may be capable of driving its corresponding emitter at different intensities independently of the other drivers, hi some embodiments, each of the drivers may drive its corresponding emitter at different intensities in unison with each of the other drivers.

[0162] Also, different LEDs may be used in different embodiments. For example, certain LEDs may be used that can output more light than other LEDs at the same power output. These LEDs may be more expensive. In some embodiments, less expensive LEDs may be used. In some embodiments, a combination of different types of LEDs may be used.

[0163] The device 350 may include a gyroscope 342, an accelerometer 344, and / or other position and / or orientation detection sensors configured to detect data related to movement. The gyroscope 342 and / or accelerometer 344 may be located on a substrate such as a PCB.

[0164] The device 350 may include an electrocardiography (ECG) sensor including multiple electrodes 354, 355 configured to contact the wearer's skin. One or more of the electrodes 354 may be located on the sensor or module 340. One or more of the electrodes 355 may be located elsewhere on the device 350.

[0165] Optionally, the sensor or module 340 may be pre-assembled before being integrated into the device 350. Electrical connections may be established between the sensor module PCB and the circuitry of the remainder of the device 350, including, for example, the device processing unit 364, the display 312, and the power supply 366. The sensor or module 340 may be characterized before being assembled with the remainder of the device 350. Alternatively, the module housing may be an integral component of the device housing.

[0166] The device 350 may include a gyroscope 342, an accelerometer 344, and / or other position and / or orientation detection sensors. The gyroscope 342 and / or accelerometer 344 may be in electrical communication with a sensor or module processing unit 348. The sensor or module processing unit 348 may determine motion information from signals from the gyroscope 342 and / or accelerometer 344. The motion information may provide a noise criterion for analysis of pulse wave information and other signal processing (e.g., processing of ECG signals) performed by the sensor or module processing unit 348. The gyroscope 342 and / or accelerometer 344 may be located on a PCB.

[0167] The device 350 may include an electrocardiogram (ECG) sensor including multiple electrodes 354, 355 configured to contact the wearer's skin. In some implementations, the electrodes 354 may be located on the sensor or module 340. In some implementations, the electrodes 355 may be located elsewhere in the device 350 (e.g., the electrodes 355 may form part of the housing of the wearable device 350). In some implementations, the electrodes 354 may include a reference electrode and a negative electrode. In some implementations, the electrodes 355 may include a positive electrode.

[0168] The electrodes 354, 355 may comprise a conductive material and may conduct electrical signals arising from the user, such as from the user's muscle activity (e.g., cardiac activity), neural activity, etc. The module processing unit 348 and / or the device processing unit 364 may receive the electrical signals conducted by the electrodes 354, 355. The module processing unit 348 and / or the device processing unit 364 may implement one or more electrocardiography techniques on the electrical signals received via the electrodes 354 and / or 355. For example, the module processing unit 348 and / or the device processing unit 364 may generate an ECG waveform from the electrical signals received from the electrodes 354 and / or 355, which may be displayed via the display 312. As another example, the module processing unit 348 and / or the device processing unit 364 may determine a heart rate from the electrical signals received from the electrodes 354 and / or 355. As another example, the module processor 348 and / or the device processor 364 may determine one or more cardiac conditions (e.g., tachycardia, fibrillation, arrhythmia, asystole, flutter, bradycardia, premature ventricular contractions, etc.) based on analyzing the electrical signals received from the electrodes 354 and / or 355.

[0169] The tightness of the device 350 on the wearer's body (e.g., wrist) can be adjusted by adjusting any suitable strap 330 used to secure the device 350 to the user's body. The strap 330 can be connected to the device 350 using any suitable strap connection 322. For example, the strap connection 322 may be compatible with third-party watch bands and / or wearable blood pressure monitors, etc. Adjusting the strap 330 around the wearer's wrist can reduce and / or eliminate gaps between the tissue-facing surface of the module 340 and the wearer's skin to improve accuracy in measurements. The device 350 may include an optional strain gauge 320 to measure the pressure of the device 350 on the wearer. The strain gauge 320 may be positioned within the device housing between the sensor module 340 and other components of the device 350, such as the power supply 366, the device processing unit 364, etc. When device 350 is worn on a wearer, such as at the wrist, the pressure exerted by module 340 against tissue may be transmitted and measured by strain gauges 320. Readings from strain gauges 320 may be communicated to device processor 364, which may process the readings and output an indication of the pressure exerted by device 350 on the wearer for display on display 312. Optionally, when device 350 determines that the wearer's SpO2 reading is declining at a particular rate, at a particular rate, and / or within a predetermined time, device 350 may output an alert that device 350 is being worn too tightly or too loosely.

[0170] The module 340 disclosed herein may include an optional connector 352 for accepting an additional sensor, such as a fingertip sensor configured to monitor for opioid overdose, or any other suitable non-invasive sensor, such as an acoustic sensor, a blood pressure sensor, etc. The connector 352 may be oriented to allow the second sensor to extend from the housing of the device 350 with reduced or no tissue impingement at the device / tissue interface, resulting in less or no effect of the connector 352 or second sensor on blood flow through the device measurement site.

[0171] 4A schematically illustrates an example of a wearable device 10 as disclosed herein. As previously described, the device processing unit 14 may be connected to a physiological parameter measurement module sensor 108, which may include emitters, detectors, thermistors, and other sensors as disclosed herein. Electrical connections between the device processing unit 14 and the sensor or module processing unit 108 may optionally be established via a flexible connector 32. The sensor or module processing unit 108 may optionally be coupled to electrodes 124, 125 via an ECG flexible connector 123.

[0172] The device processing unit 14 may be connected to the display 12, which may include a display screen and touch input from the wearer. The device processing unit 14 may include a battery 16 and may optionally include one or more wireless charging coils 17 to enable wireless charging of the battery 16. The device processing unit 14 may be connected to an antenna 19 for extending wirelessly transmitted signals to an external device, such as, for example, as described with reference to FIG. 2. The device processing unit 14 may include connections to a first user interface (UI1) 13a and a second user interface (UI2) 13b in the device 10 to receive input from the wearer. The first user interface 13a and the second user interface 13b may be in the form of buttons. Additionally or alternatively, the device 10 may include a microphone. The device 10 can receive user input via the user interface, which may be a button, microphone, and / or touchscreen. The user input can instruct the device 10 to turn certain measurements on and / or off and / or to control externally connected devices, such as an insulin pump, therapy delivery device, etc. The device processing unit 14 may be connected to a user feedback output 15 to provide feedback to the wearer, such as in the form of vibrations, sound signals, and / or other. The device processing unit 14 may optionally be connected to an accelerometer and / or gyroscope 42 located on the device 10 that is different from the accelerometer 114 and gyroscope 112 in the physiological parameter measurement module 100. The accelerometer and / or gyroscope 42 may measure the position and / or orientation of the wearer for non-physiological parameter measurement functions, such as, for example, to rotate the display 12 to sense when the wearer has woken up.

[0173] FIG. 4B illustrates example components of a PCB board of the device processing unit 14. As shown in FIG. 4B, the device processing unit 14 may include a Bluetooth coprocessor 1400 and a system processing unit 1402. The system processing unit 1402 may perform peripheral functions of the device 10, receive user (i.e., wearer) input, and communicate with the sensor or module processing unit 108. The Bluetooth coprocessor 1400 may focus on managing Bluetooth communications, freeing the system processing unit 1402 to focus on memory-intensive tasks such as managing the display screen 12. The Bluetooth coprocessor 1400 may be activated when there is an incoming and / or outgoing Bluetooth communication. Alternatively, the Bluetooth coprocessor 1400 may be replaced by a different wireless coprocessor configured to manage wireless communications using a different wireless communication protocol.

[0174] FIG. 4C illustrates example components of the module processor PCB board 116. As shown in FIG. 4C, the sensor or module processor 108 may include a computing processor 1080 and a system processor 1082. The computing processor 1080 can manage host communication with the device processor 14 via a host connector 1084. The computing processor 1080 can perform algorithmic calculations to calculate physiological parameters based on signals received from the electrodes 124 / 125 and optical sensors, including the emitter 104, detector 106, and temperature sensor 102, and optionally, signals received from other sensors in communication with the sensor or module processor 108. The computing processor 1080 may have a relatively large memory suitable for performing the algorithmic calculations. The system processor 1082 can communicate with a power management integrated circuit (PMIC) 1090. The system processor 1082 can run the physical systems of the sensor or module 100 (including, for example, turning emitter LEDs on and off, varying gain, setting current, reading the accelerometer 114 and / or gyroscope 112, etc.) and can thin out data to a lower sampling rate. The system processor 1082 can focus on data processing, taking measurements and diagnostics, and the basic functions of the sensor's or module's processor 108. The system processor 1082 can cause the computational processor 1080 to sleep (hibernate) most of the time, waking it up only when there is enough measurement data to perform calculations.

[0175] Figure 4D shows an example of the front-end analog signal conditioning circuitry 1088 of the module PCB 116 shown in Figure 4C. The entire front-end circuitry 1088 can be located on a single application specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0176] The front-end circuitry 1088 may include a transimpedance amplifier 1092 configured to receive analog signals from the optical sensors, including the emitter 104, the detector 106, and the temperature sensor 102, which may be preprocessed (e.g., via a low-pass filter 1094 and a high-pass filter 1096) before being sent to an analog-to-digital converter 1098. The analog-to-digital converter 1098 may output digital signals based on the analog signals from the optical sensors, including the emitter 104, the detector 106, and the temperature sensor 102, to the system processor 1082 and the computing device 1080. The front-end circuitry 1088 may include a detector cathode switch matrix 1083 configured to activate cathodes of detectors selected to be activated. The matrix 1083 may be further configured to deactivate (e.g., by shorting) anodes of detectors selected to be deactivated in configurations in which the detectors share a common anode but have different cathodes.

[0177] The front-end circuitry 1088 may include an ECG amplifier 1091 configured to receive analog signals from the electrodes 124 / 125, which may output an amplified analog signal to an analog-to-digital converter 1098. The amplified analog signal may include an ECG difference between the positive and negative electrodes. The analog-to-digital converter 1098 may output a digital signal based on the analog signals from the electrodes 124 / 125 to the system processor 1082 and the computing device 1080.

[0178] 5A is a front view of an example embodiment of a sensor or module 2700. The sensor or module 2700 comprises an opaque frame 2726, one or more electrodes 2724, one or more detector chambers 2788, one or more emitter chambers 2778, and a light barrier structure 2720.

[0179] The opaque frame 2726 may include one or more materials configured to prevent or block the transmission of light. In some embodiments, the opaque frame 2726 may form a single, integrated unit. In some embodiments, the opaque frame 2726 may be formed from a continuous material. The light barrier structure 2720 may include one or more materials configured to prevent or block the transmission of light. In some embodiments, the light barrier structure 2720 may form a single, integrated unit. In some embodiments, the light barrier structure 2720 may be formed from a continuous material. In some embodiments, the light barrier structure 2720 and the opaque frame 2726 may form a single, integrated unit. In some embodiments, the light barrier structure 2720 and the opaque frame 2726 may be separably connected.

[0180] The light barrier structure 2720 may comprise one or more light barriers, such as light barriers 2720a, 2720b, 2720c, and 2720d, which are provided as non-limiting examples. In some embodiments, the light barriers may be referred to herein as light blocks. The light barriers may form one or more portions of the light barrier structure 2720. The light barrier structure 2720 (or light barrier portions thereof) may prevent light from passing through it. The light barrier structure 2720 may include spaces between the various light barriers that may define one or more chambers (e.g., detector chamber 2788, emitter chamber 2778). In some embodiments, the one or more chambers (e.g., detector chamber 2788, emitter chamber 2778) may be enclosed by the light barrier structure 2720 or light barrier portions thereof, a surface of a substrate (e.g., a PCB), and a lens or cover. In some embodiments, light may enter the chambers only through the lens or cover.

[0181] An example of a light barrier is provided with reference to the example of light barrier 2720a. Light barrier 2720a forms a portion of light barrier structure 2720. Light barrier 2720a can prevent (e.g., block) light from passing through itself between adjacent chambers. For example, light barrier 2720a can prevent light from passing through light barrier structure 2720 between emitter chamber 2778 and detector chamber 2788. Light barrier 2720a, or a portion thereof, can include width 2771. In some embodiments, width 2771 can be less than about 1.85 mm. In some embodiments, width 2771 can be less than about 1.9 mm. In some embodiments, width 2771 can be less than about 1.95 mm. In some embodiments, width 2771 can be about 1.88 mm. In some embodiments, width 2771 can be shorter (e.g., smaller) than length 2779. In some embodiments, width 2771 can be less than about 55% of length 2779. In some embodiments, width 2771 can be less than about 60% of length 2779. In some embodiments, width 2771 can be less than about 65% of length 2779. In some embodiments, width 2771 can be about 58.9% of length 2779.

[0182] Another example of a light barrier is provided with reference to the example of light barrier 2720b. Light barrier 2720b forms a portion of light barrier structure 2720. Light barrier 2720b can prevent (e.g., block) light from passing through itself between adjacent chambers. For example, light barrier 2720b can prevent light from passing through light barrier structure 2720 between emitter chamber 2778 and detector chamber 2788. Light barrier 2720b, or a portion thereof, can include width 2772. In some embodiments, width 2772 can be less than about 1.35 mm. In some embodiments, width 2772 can be less than about 1.40 mm. In some embodiments, width 2772 can be less than about 1.45 mm. In some embodiments, width 2772 can be about 1.37 mm. In some embodiments, width 2772 can be substantially similar to width 2771. In some embodiments, width 2772 can be shorter (e.g., smaller) than width 2771. In some embodiments, width 2772 can be less than about 70% of width 2771. In some embodiments, width 2772 can be less than about 75% of width 2771. In some embodiments, width 2772 can be less than about 80% of width 2771. In some embodiments, width 2772 can be about 72.9% of width 2771.

[0183] Another example of a light barrier is provided with reference to the example of light barrier 2720c. Light barrier 2720c forms part of light barrier structure 2720. Light barrier 2720c can prevent (e.g., block) light from passing through itself between adjacent chambers. For example, light barrier 2720c can prevent light from passing through light barrier structure 2720 between adjacent detector chambers 2788.

[0184] Another example of a light barrier is provided with reference to the example of light barrier 2720d. Light barrier 2720d forms a portion of light barrier structure 2720. Light barrier 2720d can prevent (e.g., block) light from passing through itself between adjacent chambers. For example, light barrier 2720d can prevent light from passing through light barrier structure 2720 between adjacent emitter chambers 2778. In some embodiments, light barrier 2720d can have a width 2775 separating adjacent emitter chambers that is less than about 1.30 mm. In some embodiments, width 2775 can be less than about 1.25 mm. In some embodiments, width 2775 can be less than about 1.20 mm. In some embodiments, width 2775 can be substantially similar to width 2772. In some embodiments, width 2775 can be shorter (e.g., smaller) than width 2772. In some embodiments, width 2775 can be less than about 95% of width 2772. In some embodiments, width 2775 can be less than about 90% of width 2772. In some embodiments, width 2775 can be less than about 85% of width 2772. In some embodiments, width 2775 can be about 87.6% of width 2772.

[0185] The emitter chambers 2778 are positioned within a central region of the sensor or module 2700. The emitter chambers 2778 may be positioned adjacent to one another across a centerline of the sensor or module 2700, for example, as described in more detail with reference to FIG. 6B . The emitter chambers 2778 may be positioned adjacent to a center point C1. Each of the emitter chambers 2778 may be similarly sized and / or shaped. The emitter chambers 2778 may be separated, at least in part, by a light barrier 2720d of the light barrier structure 2720. In some embodiments, as shown in this example, the light barrier 2720d may form the entire distance between the emitter chambers 2778. For example, the emitter chambers 2778 may be separated only by the light barrier 2720d such that no other components (e.g., detectors, detector chambers, etc.) are positioned between the emitter chambers 2778.

[0186] A portion of emitter chamber 2778 may extend away from center point C1 by length 2779. In some embodiments, length 2779 may be less than about 3.15 mm. In some embodiments, length 2779 may be less than about 3.20 mm. In some embodiments, length 2779 may be less than about 3.25 mm. In some embodiments, length 2779 may be about 3.19 mm. In some embodiments, length 2779 may be longer (e.g., greater) than the width of a light barrier separating the emitter chamber from the detector chamber, such as width 2771. In some embodiments, length 2779 may be greater than about 165% of width 2771. In some embodiments, length 2779 may be greater than about 170% of width 2771. In some embodiments, length 2779 may be greater than about 175% of width 2771. In some embodiments, length 2779 may be about 169.7% of width 2771.

[0187] As shown in this example embodiment, the detector chambers 2788 are arranged in a substantially circular pattern. Each of the detector chambers 2788 houses a detector 2706 positioned on a substrate (e.g., PCB) in a substantially circular or annular pattern. The detector 2706 may be positioned in a central region of each respective detector chamber 2788. The detector chambers 2788 are arranged along a ring defined by ring L1. In some embodiments, such as shown in this example embodiment, the detector 2706 of each detector chamber 2788 may be arranged along the same ring along which the detector chamber 2788 is arranged (e.g., in embodiments where the detector is positioned in a central region of each chamber). Ring L1 may intersect the central region of the detector chamber 2788. In this example embodiment, ring L1 surrounds the entire emitter chamber 2778 such that the emitter chamber 2778 is positioned within an interior region (e.g., a central region) of ring L1 defined by the detector chamber 2788. In some embodiments, each of the detector chambers 2788 (and the corresponding detectors 2706 within each detector chamber 2788) can be positioned substantially similar or the same distance away from a center point C1 (e.g., the center of the sensor or module 2700). In some embodiments, the detectors 2706 can be rectangular with a longer side and a shorter side. The detectors 2706 can be positioned on the substrate of the sensor or module 2700 such that the long side of each detector is orthogonal to a radius (e.g., radius r1, radius r2, radius r3) extending away from the center point C1. Advantageously, orienting the detector 2706 in an annular arrangement in the sensor or module 2700, with the long side of the detector 2706 perpendicular to the center point C1, can improve the accuracy of the physiological measurement by ensuring that light from the emitter travels along a known path length from the emitter to the detector 2706, and can also reduce the processing requirements of the sensor or module 2700 by reducing the amount of variables (e.g., the number of optical path lengths) that need to be processed to determine physiological data.

[0188] The electrodes 2724 may include a reference electrode and a negative electrode (and / or a positive electrode). In some embodiments, a wearable device such as a watch incorporating the sensor or module 2700 may include other electrodes (e.g., a positive electrode) positioned on a housing of the wearable device configured to contact the wearer's skin. In some configurations, the surface of the electrodes 2724 may be flush with the surface of the opaque frame 2726.

[0189] The electrodes 2724 are positioned within or along a portion of the opaque frame 2726, such as shown in FIG. 5B . In some embodiments, the electrodes 2724 can be substantially semicircular. In some embodiments, the electrodes 2724 can be substantially semi-annular. In the example embodiment shown, the electrodes 2724 each form substantially half a ring. Advantageously, ring-shaped electrodes can improve contact with the wearer's skin (by contacting different areas of the skin) while simultaneously reducing the size of the electrode's surface area. In some embodiments, each of the electrodes 2724 can be similarly sized and / or shaped. In some embodiments, the electrodes 2724 can be of different sizes and / or shapes. In this example embodiment, the electrodes 2724 are positioned within the sensor or module 2700 (e.g., within the opaque frame 2726) along a ring defined by L2. In various embodiments described herein, the ring L2 can include different radii, which can advantageously provide improved contact between the electrodes 2724 and the device wearer's skin.

[0190] The opaque frame 2726 includes one or more gaps (e.g., g1, g2) between the electrodes 2724. The gaps g1, g2 (or other portions of the opaque frame 2726) can electrically insulate each of the electrodes 2724 from each other. Each of the electrodes 2724 includes a substantially straight edge along a portion of the respective gap g1, g2. In some embodiments, the gaps g1, g2 can be similar or the same size. In some embodiments, the gaps g1, g2 can be different sizes from each other. In some embodiments, the gaps g1, g2 can be less than about 1.6 mm. In some embodiments, the gaps g1, g2 can be less than about 1.65 mm. In some embodiments, the gaps g1, g2 can be less than about 1.7 mm. In some embodiments, the gaps g1, g2 can be about 1.62 mm. As discussed above, in some implementations, the frame 2726 includes a recess 2824 sized and / or shaped to receive the electrode 2724. In some implementations, each such recess 2824 includes a first end and a second end, the first ends of the recesses 2824 being spaced apart from one another by a gap g1, and the second ends of the recesses 2824 being spaced apart from one another by a gap g2.

[0191] Ring L1 can be concentric with the outer periphery of sensor or module 2700. Ring L2 can be concentric with the outer periphery of sensor or module 2700. Ring L2 can be concentric with a ring defined by the location of detector chamber 2788, such as ring L1. Center point C1 can define the geometric center of ring L1. Center point C1 can define the geometric center of ring L2. Center point C1 can define the geometric center of the outer periphery of sensor or module 2700. In some embodiments, such as that shown in FIG. 5A , each of L1, L2 and the outer periphery of sensor or module 2700 are concentric with one another and share the same geometric center, denoted as C1.

[0192] Ring L1 may include a radius r1. In some embodiments, radius r1 may be less than about 6.25 mm. In some embodiments, radius r1 may be less than about 6.50 mm. In some embodiments, radius r1 may be less than about 6.75 mm. In some embodiments, radius r1 may be about 6.34 mm. In some embodiments, radius r1 may be shorter (e.g., smaller) than radius r2. In some embodiments, radius r1 may be less than about 55% of r2. In some embodiments, radius r1 may be less than about 60% of r2. In some embodiments, radius r1 may be less than about 65% of r2. In some embodiments, radius r1 may be about 59% of r2. In some embodiments, radius r1 may be shorter (e.g., smaller) than radius r3. In some embodiments, radius r1 may be less than about 40% of r3. In some embodiments, radius r1 may be less than about 45% of r3. In some embodiments, radius r1 may be less than about 50% of r3. In some embodiments, radius r1 can be about 41.7% of r3.

[0193] Ring L2 may include a radius r2. In some embodiments, radius r2 may be less than about 10.5 mm. In some embodiments, radius r2 may be less than about 10.75 mm. In some embodiments, radius r2 may be less than about 11.0 mm. In some embodiments, radius r2 may be about 10.73 mm. In some embodiments, radius r2 may be shorter (e.g., smaller) than radius r3. In some embodiments, radius r2 may be less than about 65% of r3. In some embodiments, radius r2 may be less than about 70% of r3. In some embodiments, radius r2 may be less than about 75% of r3. In some embodiments, radius r2 may be about 70.6% of r3.

[0194] In some embodiments, the sensor or module 2700 (e.g., the outer periphery of the sensor or module 2700) may include a radius r3. In some embodiments, the radius r3 may be less than about 14.5 mm. In some embodiments, the radius r3 may be less than about 15.0 mm. In some embodiments, the radius r3 may be less than about 15.50 mm. In some embodiments, the radius r3 may be less than about 16.0 mm. In some embodiments, the radius r3 may be about 15.19 mm.

[0195] 5B shows an example of an additional embodiment of an optional electrocardiogram (ECG) sensor. The electrocardiogram (ECG) sensor may include a plurality of electrodes 2724 configured to contact the wearer's skin. The plurality of electrodes 2724 may be positioned on the sensor or module 2700. As disclosed herein, a wearable device incorporating a module may include other electrodes positioned on the housing of the wearable device configured to contact the wearer's skin.

[0196] FIG. 5B is an exploded perspective view of an example embodiment of a sensor or module 2700. As shown in FIG. 5B, the opaque frame 2726 can include a recess (which may also be referred to as a "dimple") having a shape and size to accommodate the electrode 2724 or other component with an appropriate shape and size. For example, in some implementations, the frame 2726 includes a recess 2824. The recess 2824 can be sized and / or shaped to receive the electrode 2724. In some implementations, the recess 2824 can have a depth (e.g., measured from the plane of the frame 2726) substantially equal to the thickness of the electrode 2724. In some implementations, the recess 2824 has a size and / or shape that matches the size and / or shape of the electrode 2724. For example, in some implementations where the electrode has a semi-annular shape (such as those shown in at least FIGS. 5A-5B ), the recess 2824 can have a semi-annular shape.

[0197] The front side of the electrode 2724 may have one or more posts 2737 that extend beyond the openings in the opaque frame 2726 and into corresponding openings in the substrate 2716. The posts 2737 of the electrode 2724 can establish an electrical connection with the corresponding openings in the substrate 2716. A number of screws (or other types of fasteners) can extend from the front side of the substrate 2716 into the corresponding openings in the substrate 2716 and threadably engage or otherwise fit with the posts 2737 to secure the electrode 2724 to the sensor or module 2700. When a wearer places a wearable device incorporating the sensor or module 2700 on their wrist, the electrode 2724 can contact the wearer's skin.

[0198] 5B, the substrate 2716 may comprise a printed circuit board (PCB). The substrate 2716 may include a conductive liquid adhesive 2739. The conductive liquid adhesive 2739 may be provided on the copper of the substrate 2716. The conductive liquid adhesive 2739 may facilitate a conductive connection between the electrode 2724 and the substrate 2716.

[0199] 5B, one or more spring contacts (such as spring contact 2755′ shown in FIG. 6A) may be positioned between the electrode 2724 and the substrate 2716. The shape, size, and / or number of the spring contacts may vary. The spring contacts may establish an electrical connection between the electrode 2724 and the substrate 2716. The spring contacts may be biased toward the electrode 2724 to ensure a firm electrical connection between the spring contacts and the electrode 2724 and the substrate 2716.

[0200] 6A shows another example arrangement of an optical sensor including emitters, detectors, and thermistors on a processing unit substrate 2716' of a sensor or module. As shown in FIG. 6A, the first and second groups of emitters 2704a', 2704b' may each include five emitters (or, optionally, a different number of emitters as needed or desired). Each of the emitters in the first and second groups of emitters 2704a', 2704b' may comprise an LED and may be configured to emit light at various wavelengths, such as any of the wavelengths discussed herein, for example, a first wavelength from about 525 nm to about 650 nm (such as about 525 nm, about 580 nm, or about 645 nm), a second wavelength from about 620 nm to about 660 nm (such as about 625 nm), a third wavelength from about 650 nm to about 670 nm (such as about 660 nm), a fourth wavelength from about 900 nm to about 910 nm, and a fifth wavelength at about 970 nm. As shown in FIG. 6A, the substrate 2716' may include spring contacts 2755' to facilitate physical and / or electrical connection between the substrate 2716' and an electrode (e.g., electrode 2724 shown in FIG. 5B).

[0201] 6B-6C show an example physiological parameter measurement sensor or module 2700' and an example optical path between the emitter and detector of module 2700'.

[0202] 6B shows an example of an arrangement of emitter and detector chambers of a sensor or module 2700'. As shown, the sensor or module 2700' may include a first emitter chamber 2736a' enclosing a first emitter group comprising one or more emitters, a second emitter chamber 2736b' enclosing a second emitter group comprising one or more emitters, one or more first detector chambers 2740', one or more second detector chambers 2742', and one or more third detector chambers 2738'. In some embodiments, each detector chamber may enclose one detector.

[0203] The first emitter group in the first emitter chamber 2736a' may include the same number and type of emitters as the second emitter group in the second emitter chamber 2736b'. Stated another way, each emitter in the first emitter group may correspond to an emitter of the same type (e.g., same wavelength) in the second emitter group. The emitters in the first emitter group may be arranged in a configuration that is a mirror image of the emitters in the second emitter group across the centerline 2750' of the sensor or module 2700', as shown in FIG. 6B . For example, each emitter in the first group of emitters may be positioned a distance away from the centerline 2750' of the sensor or module 2700' that is the same distance away from the centerline 2750' of the sensor or module 2700' as the corresponding emitter in the second group of emitters is positioned away from the centerline 2750' of the sensor or module 2700'. For example, the first and second emitter groups can each include emitters that emit light at a first wavelength and are positioned at locations that are mirror images of each other across the centerline 2750' of the sensor or module 2700'. The first and second emitter groups can also include emitters that emit light at a second wavelength and are positioned at locations that are mirror images of each other across the centerline 2750' of the sensor or module 2700'. Each of the emitters in the first emitter group can correspond to an emitter in the second emitter group that is positioned at a mirror image location, and vice versa.

[0204] The one or more second detector chambers 2742′ can be bisected by a centerline 2750′ of the sensor or module 2700′. Each of the detectors of each one or more second detector chambers 2742′ can be bisected by the centerline 2750′ of the sensor or module 2700′. Stated another way, the one or more second detector chambers 2742′, their respective detectors, and the sensor or module 2700′ can each share the same (e.g., parallel) centerline 2750′. The sensor or module 2700′ can be oriented (e.g., rotated) relative to the wearer's tissue in any orientation. In an example implementation in which the sensor or module 2700′ is worn on the user's wrist, the sensor or module 2700′ can be rotated in any direction relative to the wearer's wrist or forearm. In one example configuration, the sensor or module 2700′ may be oriented with respect to the wearer's forearm (or other body part) such that the centerline 2750′ of the sensor or module is perpendicular to a line extending along the length of the wearer's forearm (e.g., from elbow to wrist). Advantageously, such a configuration may improve physiological measurements by facilitating transmission of light emitted from the emitter chamber and detected in the detector chamber (e.g., light traveling from emitter chamber 2736a′ to detector chamber 2738′) into the wearer's soft tissue (e.g., blood vessels) rather than other tissue, such as bone. In another example configuration, the sensor or module 2700′ may be oriented with respect to the wearer's forearm (or other body part) such that the centerline 2750′ of the sensor or module is parallel to a line extending along the length of the wearer's forearm (e.g., from elbow to wrist). Advantageously, such a configuration can improve physiological measurements by facilitating transmission of light emitted from the emitter chamber and detected in the detector chamber (e.g., light traveling from emitter chamber 2736a' to detector chamber 2742') into the wearer's soft tissue (e.g., blood vessels) rather than other tissue such as bone.

[0205] 6B , first and second emitter groups that correspond to one another (e.g., emit the same wavelength and are mirror images of one another) can each emit light that travels along a respective path to a detector in one or more second detector chambers 2742′. The respective paths of light from corresponding emitters can be of equal length. This can be because the corresponding emitters are positioned equal distances away from the detectors in the chambers 2742′. The corresponding emitters can be positioned as mirror images of one another across a centerline 2750′ of the sensor or module 2700′ that bisects the one or more second detector chambers 2742′ and the respective detectors, and therefore can be equal distances away from the detectors in the chambers 2742′.

[0206] One or more second detector chambers 2742′ and their respective detectors can be used for calibration, at least in part, to characterize the emitters by providing known information, such as, for example, a known ratio. For example, information from emitters in a first group of emitters corresponding to wavelengths detected at the detectors in chamber 2742′ may be similar or the same as information from emitters in a second group of emitters corresponding to wavelengths detected at the detectors in chamber 2742′, and a comparison (e.g., subtraction, division, etc.) of the resulting information from the first and second groups of emitters may yield a known number, such as 0 or 1, because corresponding emitters from the first and second emitter groups may be equal distances from the detectors in chamber 2742′ and light emitted therefrom may travel the same distance to the detectors in chamber 2742′. As an example of normalization, the ratio of wavelengths detected at the detectors in chambers 2738′, 2740′ may be a normalized ratio of the wavelength detected at the detector in chamber 2742′ (e.g., divided by that wavelength). If the information resulting from the detection of light from the first and second groups of emitters is not the same or is substantially different (as a result of emission intensity variations or other such discrepancies), the information may be adjusted or normalized (e.g., calibrated) to account for such differences. This normalization, on-board calibration, or characterization of the emitters may improve the accuracy of the physiological measurements and may provide for continuous calibration or normalization between measurements. In some embodiments, the processing unit may be configured to continuously calibrate or normalize the sensor's physiological parameter measurements. In some embodiments, the processing unit may be configured to calibrate or normalize the sensor's physiological parameter measurements while the optical physiological sensor measures the wearer's physiological parameter.

[0207] 6C shows an example of an arrangement of emitter and detector chambers of a sensor or module 2700'. As shown, the sensor or module 2700' may include a first emitter chamber 2736a', a second emitter chamber 2736b', one or more first detector chambers 2740', one or more second detector chambers 2742', and one or more third detector chambers 2738', e.g., as discussed elsewhere herein.

[0208] The first emitter chamber 2736a' and the second emitter chamber 2736b' may be positioned at unequal distances from each of the one or more detector chambers 2738' and 2740'. Thus, with respect to each detector chamber 2738', 2740', the first emitter chamber 2736a' and the second emitter chamber 2736b' may be a "near" or a "far" emitter chamber, respectively. Stated differently, the detector in each detector chamber 2738', 2740' can detect light of any given wavelength from both the "near" emitter and the "far" emitter, with the near emitter and the far emitter being included in either the first emitter group or the second emitter group, respectively.

[0209] As an example, as shown in FIG. 6C , light of a given wavelength can travel along a path from an emitter in a first emitter group to a detector in detector chamber 2738′, and light of the same wavelength can travel along a path from an emitter in a second emitter group to the same detector. Light from the first emitter group may travel along a longer path than light from the second emitter group before reaching the detector in chamber 2738′. Thus, for any detector in detector chamber 2738′ or 2740′, the detector can receive light of a given wavelength from both nearby (e.g., proximal) emitters and farther (e.g., distal) emitters. This may not be the case for the detector in chamber 2742′, because the first and second emitter groups may each be positioned the same distance away from any given detector in detector chamber 2742′, as described herein.

[0210] For convenience, the terms "proximal" and "distal" may be used herein to describe structures relative to either the detector chambers or their respective detectors. For example, an emitter may be proximal to a detector in a first detector chamber and distal to a detector in a second detector chamber. The term "distal" refers to one or more emitters that are farther away from the detector chamber relative to at least some of the other emitters. The term "proximal" refers to one or more emitters that are closer to the detector chamber relative to at least some of the other emitters. The term "proximal emitter" can be used interchangeably with "near emitter," and the term "distal emitter" can be used interchangeably with "far emitter."

[0211] A single emitter can be proximal to some detectors and distal to other detectors, for example, an emitter can be a proximal emitter to a detector in a first detector chamber and a distal emitter to a detector in a second detector chamber.

[0212] Light of a given wavelength detected at a detector can provide different information depending on the length of the path it travels from the emitter (e.g., along a longer path from the distal emitter or along a shorter path from the proximal emitter). For example, light traveling along a longer path from the distal emitter can penetrate deeper into the tissue of the device wearer and can provide information about pulsating blood flow or composition. Using a proximal and distal emitter for each wavelength can improve the accuracy of the measurement; for example, information about light traveling along a longer path from the distal emitter can be normalized (e.g., divided) by information about light traveling along a shorter path from the proximal emitter.

[0213] 6D-6G show an example physiological parameter measurement sensor or module 2700' and an example light barrier or light block between the emitter and detector chamber of module 2700'.

[0214] 6D is a front view of an example embodiment of a sensor or module 2700'. The sensor or module 2700' comprises an opaque frame 2726', one or more electrodes 2724', one or more detector chambers 2788', one or more emitter chambers 2778', and a light barrier structure 2720'.

[0215] The opaque frame 2726′ may include one or more materials configured to prevent or block the transmission of light. In some embodiments, the opaque frame 2726′ may form a single, integrated unit. In some embodiments, the opaque frame 2726′ may be formed from a continuous material. The light barrier structure 2720′ may include one or more materials configured to prevent or block the transmission of light. In some embodiments, the light barrier structure 2720′ may form a single, integrated unit. In some embodiments, the light barrier structure 2720′ may be formed from a continuous material. In some embodiments, the light barrier structure 2720′ and the opaque frame 2726′ may form a single, integrated unit. In some embodiments, the light barrier structure 2720′ and the opaque frame 2726′ may be separably connected.

[0216] The light barrier structure 2720′ may comprise one or more light barriers, such as light barriers 2720a′, 2720b′, 2720c′, and 2720d′, which are provided as non-limiting examples. In some embodiments, the light barriers may be referred to herein as light blocks. The light barriers may form one or more portions of the light barrier structure 2720′. The light barrier structure 2720′ (or light barrier portions thereof) may prevent light from passing through it. The light barrier structure 2720′ may include spaces between the various light barriers that may define one or more chambers (e.g., detector chamber 2788′, emitter chamber 2778′). In some embodiments, the one or more chambers (e.g., detector chamber 2788′, emitter chamber 2778′) may be enclosed by the light barrier structure 2720′ or light barrier portions thereof, a surface of a substrate (e.g., a PCB), and a lens or cover. In some embodiments, light may enter the chambers only through the lens or cover.

[0217] An example of a light barrier is provided with reference to the example of light barrier 2720a'. Light barrier 2720a' forms a portion of light barrier structure 2720'. Light barrier 2720a' can prevent (e.g., block) light from passing through itself between adjacent chambers. For example, light barrier 2720a' can prevent light from passing through light barrier structure 2720' between emitter chamber 2778' and detector chamber 2788'. Light barrier 2720a', or a portion thereof, can include width 2771'. In some embodiments, width 2771' can be less than about 3.30 mm. In some embodiments, width 2771' can be less than about 3.25 mm. In some embodiments, width 2771' can be less than about 3.20 mm. In some embodiments, width 2771' can be about 3.24 mm. In some embodiments, width 2771' can be longer (e.g., greater) than length 2779'. In some embodiments, width 2771′ can be less than about 165% of length 2779′. In some embodiments, width 2771′ can be less than about 160% of length 2779′. In some embodiments, width 2771′ can be less than about 155% of length 2779′. In some embodiments, width 2771′ can be about 160% of length 2779′. Advantageously, a larger width 2771′ (e.g., a wider light barrier separating emitter chamber 2778′ and detector chamber 2788′) can allow light emitted from emitter chamber 2778′ to travel a longer distance before reaching detector chamber 2788′. Light that travels a longer distance can penetrate deeper into the wearer's tissue, which can improve the accuracy of physiological measurements.

[0218] Other examples of light barriers are provided with reference to the example of light barrier 2720b'. Light barrier 2720b' forms a portion of light barrier structure 2720'. Light barrier 2720b' can prevent (e.g., block) light from passing through itself between adjacent chambers. For example, light barrier 2720b' can prevent light from passing through light barrier structure 2720' between emitter chamber 2778' and detector chamber 2788'. Light barrier 2720b', or a portion thereof, can include width 2772'. In some embodiments, width 2772' can be less than about 1.65 mm. In some embodiments, width 2772' can be less than about 1.60 mm. In some embodiments, width 2772' can be less than about 1.55 mm. In some embodiments, width 2772' can be about 1.59 mm. In some embodiments, width 2772' can be shorter (e.g., smaller) than width 2771'. In some embodiments, width 2772′ can be less than about 60% of width 2771′. In some embodiments, width 2772′ can be less than about 55% of width 2771′. In some embodiments, width 2772′ can be less than about 50% of width 2771′. In some embodiments, width 2772′ can be about 49% of width 2771′. Advantageously, a larger width 2772′ can allow light emitted from emitter chamber 2778′ to travel a longer distance before reaching detector chamber 2788′. Light that travels a longer distance can penetrate deeper into the wearer's tissue, which can improve the accuracy of physiological measurements.

[0219] Another example of a light barrier is provided with reference to the example of light barrier 2720c'. Light barrier 2720c' forms part of light barrier structure 2720'. Light barrier 2720c' can prevent (e.g., block) light from passing between adjacent chambers. For example, light barrier 2720c' can prevent light from passing between adjacent detector chambers 2788' and light barrier structure 2720'.

[0220] Other examples of light barriers are provided with reference to the example of light barrier 2720d'. Light barrier 2720d' forms a portion of light barrier structure 2720'. Light barrier 2720d' can prevent (e.g., block) light from passing between adjacent chambers. For example, light barrier 2720d' can prevent light from passing through light barrier structure 2720' between adjacent emitter chambers 2778'. In some embodiments, light barrier 2720d' can have a width 2775' separating adjacent emitter chambers that is less than about 1.40 mm. In some embodiments, width 2775' can be less than about 1.35 mm. In some embodiments, width 2775' can be less than about 1.30 mm. In some embodiments, width 2775' can be about 1.28 mm. In some embodiments, width 2775' can be shorter (e.g., smaller) than width 2771'. In some embodiments, width 2775' can be less than about 50% of width 2771'. In some embodiments, width 2775' can be less than about 45% of width 2771'. In some embodiments, width 2775' can be less than about 40% of width 2771'. In some embodiments, width 2775' can be less than about 35% of width 2771'. In some embodiments, width 2775' can be about 39.5% of width 2771'.

[0221] The emitter chambers 2778′ are positioned within a central region of the sensor or module 2700′. The emitter chambers 2778′ may be positioned adjacent to one another across a centerline of the sensor or module 2700′, for example, as described in more detail with reference to FIG. 6B . The emitter chambers 2778′ may be positioned adjacent a center point C′1. Each of the emitter chambers 2778′ may be similarly sized and / or shaped. The emitter chambers 2778′ may be separated, at least in part, by a light barrier 2720d′ of the light barrier structure 2720′. In some embodiments, as shown in this example, the light barrier 2720d′ may form the entire distance between the emitter chambers 2778′. For example, the emitter chambers 2778′ may be separated only by a light barrier 2720d′ such that other components (e.g., detectors, detector chambers, etc.) are not positioned between the emitter chambers 2778′.

[0222] A portion of emitter chamber 2778′ may extend away from center point C′1 by length 2779′. In some embodiments, length 2779′ may be less than about 2.15 mm. In some embodiments, length 2779′ may be less than about 2.10 mm. In some embodiments, length 2779′ may be less than about 2.05 mm. In some embodiments, length 2779′ may be less than about 2.0 mm. In some embodiments, length 2779′ may be less than about 2.02 mm. In some embodiments, length 2779′ may be less (e.g., less) than the width of a light barrier separating the emitter chamber from the detector chamber, such as width 2771′. In some embodiments, length 2779′ may be less than about 70% of width 2771′. In some embodiments, length 2779′ may be less than about 65% of width 2771′. In some embodiments, length 2779′ may be less than about 60% of width 2771′. In some embodiments, length 2779' can be about 62.3% of width 2771'.

[0223] As shown in this example embodiment, the detector chambers 2788′ are arranged in a substantially circular pattern. Each of the detector chambers 2788′ houses a detector 2706′ positioned on a substrate (e.g., PCB) in a substantially circular or annular pattern. The detector 2706′ may be positioned in a central region of each respective detector chamber 2788′. The detector chambers 2788′ are arranged along a ring defined by ring L′1. In some embodiments, such as shown in this example embodiment, the detector 2706′ of each detector chamber 2788′ may be arranged along the same ring that the detector chamber 2788′ is arranged along (such as in embodiments where the detector is positioned in a central region of each chamber). Ring L′1 may intersect the central region of the detector chamber 2788′. In this example embodiment, ring L 1´surrounds the entire emitter chamber 2778′ such that the emitter chamber 2778′ is positioned within an interior region (e.g., a central region) of the ring L′1 defined by the detector chamber 2788′. In some embodiments, each of the detector chambers 2788′ (and the corresponding detectors 2706′ within each detector chamber 2788′) can be positioned substantially similar or the same distance away from a center point C′1 (e.g., the center of the sensor or module 2700′). In some embodiments, the detectors 2706′ can be rectangular with a longer side and a shorter side. The detectors 2706′ can be positioned on the substrate of the sensor or module 2700′ such that the long side of each detector is orthogonal to a radius (e.g., radius r′1, radius r′2, radius r′3) extending away from the center point C′1. Advantageously, orienting the detector 2706′ in a circular arrangement in the sensor or module 2700′, with the long side of the detector 2706′ perpendicular to the center point C′1, can improve the accuracy of the physiological measurement by ensuring that light from the emitter travels along a known path length from the emitter to the detector 2706′, and can also reduce the processing requirements of the sensor or module 2700′ by reducing the amount of variables (e.g., the number of optical path lengths) required for processing to determine physiological data.

[0224] The electrodes 2724' may include a reference electrode and a negative electrode (and / or a positive electrode). In some embodiments, a wearable device such as a watch incorporating the sensor or module 2700' may include other electrodes (e.g., a positive electrode) positioned on a housing of the wearable device configured to contact the wearer's skin. In some configurations, the surface of the electrodes 2724' may be flush with the surface of the opaque frame 2726'.

[0225] The electrodes 2724′ are positioned within or along a portion of the opaque frame 2726′, such as shown in FIG. 6D . In some embodiments, the electrodes 2724′ can be substantially semicircular. In some embodiments, the electrodes 2724′ can be substantially semi-annular. In the example embodiment shown, the electrodes 2724′ each form substantially half a ring. Advantageously, ring-shaped electrodes can improve contact with the wearer's skin (by contacting different areas of the skin) while simultaneously reducing the size of the electrode's surface area. In some embodiments, each of the electrodes 2724′ can be similarly sized and / or shaped. In some embodiments, the electrodes 2724′ can be of different sizes and / or shapes. In this example embodiment, the electrodes 2724′ are positioned within the sensor or module 2700′ (e.g., within the opaque frame 2726′) along a ring defined by L′2. In various aspects described herein, the ring L'2 can include various radii that can advantageously provide improved contact between the electrode 2724' and the skin of the wearer of the device. In some implementations, the frame 2726' includes a recess 2824' sized and / or shaped to accommodate the electrode 2724'. In some implementations, the recess 2824' has a depth (e.g., measured from the plane of the frame 2726') substantially equal to the thickness of the electrode 2724'. In some implementations, the recess 2824' has a size and / or shape that matches the size and / or shape of the electrode 2724'. For example, in some implementations where the electrode has a semi-annular shape, the recess 2824' can have a semi-annular shape.

[0226] The opaque frame 2726′ includes one or more gaps (e.g., g′1, g′2) between the electrodes 2724′. The gaps g′1, g′2 (or other portions of the opaque frame 2726′) can electrically insulate each of the electrodes 2724′ from each other. Each of the electrodes 2724′ includes a curved edge along a portion of the respective gap g′1, g′2. In some embodiments, the gaps g′1, g′2 can be similar or the same size. In some embodiments, the gaps g′1, g′2 can be different sizes from each other. In some embodiments, the gaps g′1, g′2 can be less than about 0.6 mm. In some embodiments, the gaps g′1, g′2 can be less than about 0.65 mm. In some embodiments, the gaps g′1, g′2 can be less than about 0.7 mm. In some embodiments, the gaps g′1, g′2 can be about 0.62 mm. As discussed above, in some implementations, the frame 2726′ includes a recess 2824′ sized and / or shaped to receive the electrode 2724′. In some implementations, each such recess 2824′ includes a first end and a second end, with the first ends of the recesses 2824′ spaced apart by a gap g′1 and the second ends of the recesses 2824′ spaced apart by a gap g′2 (see FIG. 6D ). In some implementations, such as at least those shown in FIG. 6D , the ends of the recesses 2824′ and / or the ends of the electrode 2724′ have a rounded shape.

[0227] Ring L'1 can be concentric with the outer periphery of sensor or module 2700'. Ring L'2 can be concentric with the outer periphery of sensor or module 2700'. Ring L'2 can be concentric with a ring defined by the location of detector chamber 2788, such as ring L'1. Center point C' can define the geometric center of ring L'1. Center point C' can define the geometric center of ring L'2. Center point C'1 can define the geometric center of the outer periphery of sensor or module 2700'. In some embodiments, such as that shown in FIG. 6D , each of L'1, L'2 and the outer periphery of sensor or module 2700' are concentric with one another and share the same geometric center, denoted as C'1.

[0228] Ring L'1 can include a radius r'1. In some embodiments, radius r'1 can be less than about 6.5 mm. In some embodiments, radius r'1 can be less than about 6.45 mm. In some embodiments, radius r'1 can be less than about 6.40 mm. In some embodiments, radius r'1 can be about 6.40 mm. In some embodiments, radius r'1 can be shorter (e.g., smaller) than radius r'2. In some embodiments, radius r'1 can be less than about 60% of r'2. In some embodiments, radius r'1 can be less than about 55% of r'2. In some embodiments, radius r'1 can be less than about 50% of r'2. In some embodiments, radius r'1 can be about 50.9% of r'2. In some embodiments, radius r'1 can be shorter (e.g., smaller) than radius r'3. In some embodiments, radius r'1 can be less than about 40% of r'3. In some embodiments, radius r'1 can be less than about 45% of r'3. In some embodiments, radius r'1 can be less than about 50% of r'3. In some embodiments, radius r'1 can be about 42% of r'3.

[0229] Ring L'2 can include a radius r'2. In some embodiments, radius r'2 can be less than about 13 mm. In some embodiments, radius r'2 can be less than about 12.75 mm. In some embodiments, radius r'2 can be less than about 12.5 mm. In some embodiments, radius r'2 can be about 12.59 mm. In some embodiments, radius r'2 can be shorter (e.g., smaller) than radius r'3. In some embodiments, radius r'2 can be less than about 80% of r'3. In some embodiments, radius r'2 can be less than about 85% of r'3. In some embodiments, radius r'2 can be less than about 90% of r'3. In some embodiments, radius r'2 can be about 82.7% of r'3.

[0230] In some embodiments, sensor or module 2700′ (e.g., the outer periphery of sensor or module 2700′) may include a radius r′3. In some embodiments, radius r′3 may be less than about 15 mm. In some embodiments, radius r′3 may be less than about 15.0 mm. In some embodiments, radius r′3 may be less than about 15.25 mm. In some embodiments, radius r′3 may be less than about 15.5 mm. In some embodiments, radius r′3 may be about 15.22 mm.

[0231] 6E is a side cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of a sensor or module 2700′. The sensor or module 2700′ includes a barrier structure 2720′, an outer surface 2791′, and a substrate 2716′. The outer surface 2791′ may include a light barrier structure portion, a lens portion, an opaque frame portion, and / or an electrode portion. The outer surface 2791′ of the sensor or module 2700′ may face and / or contact the wearer's skin and may include a generally convex, curved shape. When the sensor or module 2700′ is worn by a wearer, the outer surface 2791′ (at least a portion of which may include electrodes) may be pressed against the wearer's skin, and the wearer's skin or tissue may conform around the convex curve. Contact between the outer surface 2791′ and the wearer's tissue can leave negligible or no air gap between the tissue and the outer surface 2791′, which can ensure maximum and / or continuous contact between the user's skin and a sensor, such as an electrode. A central region of the sensor or module 2700′ can have a height 2793′. For example, the height of the light barrier structure 2720′ in the central region of the sensor or module 2700′ can correspond to the height 2793′. The height 2793′ can be the maximum distance that the outer surface 2791′ extends vertically away from the substrate 2716′ (e.g., towards the wearer's skin). An outer region of the sensor or module 2700′ (e.g., along the periphery of the substrate 2716′) can have a height 2795′. For example, the height of the light barrier structure 2720′ and / or the opaque frame 2726′ in the outer region of the sensor or module 2700′ can correspond to the height 2795′. Height 2795' may be the minimum distance that outer surface 2791' extends vertically away from substrate 2716' (eg, towards the wearer's skin).

[0232] In some embodiments, height 2793' can be less than about 2.95 mm. In some embodiments, height 2793' can be less than about 2.90 mm. In some embodiments, height 2793' can be less than about 2.85 mm. In some embodiments, height 2793' can be less than about 2.80 mm. In some embodiments, height 2793' can be less than about 2.85 mm. In some embodiments, height 2793' can be less than about 2.70 mm. In some embodiments, height 2793' can be less than about 2.65 mm. In some embodiments, height 2793' can be less than about 2.60 mm. In some embodiments, height 2793' can be less than about 2.55 mm. In some embodiments, height 2793' can be about 2.58 mm.

[0233] In some embodiments, height 2795' can be less than about 1.40 mm. In some embodiments, height 2795' can be less than about 1.35 mm. In some embodiments, height 2795' can be less than about 1.30 mm. In some embodiments, height 2795' can be less than about 1.25 mm. In some embodiments, height 2795' can be less than about 1.29 mm. In some embodiments, height 2795' can be less than about 1.90 mm. In some embodiments, height 2795' can be less than about 1.85 mm. In some embodiments, height 2795' can be less than about 1.80 mm. In some embodiments, height 2795' can be less than about 1.75 mm. In some embodiments, height 2795' can be about 1.78 mm.

[0234] In some embodiments, height 2793′ can be taller (e.g., greater) than height 2795′. In some embodiments, height 2793′ can be less than about 230% of height 2795′. In some embodiments, height 2793′ can be less than about 225% of height 2795′. In some embodiments, height 2793′ can be less than about 220% of height 2795′. In some embodiments, height 2793′ can be less than about 215% of height 2795′. In some embodiments, height 2793′ can be about 221% of height 2795′. In some embodiments, height 2793′ can be less than about 155% of height 2795′. In some embodiments, height 2793′ can be less than about 150% of height 2795′. In some embodiments, height 2793′ can be less than about 145% of height 2795′. In some embodiments, height 2793' can be less than about 140% of height 2795'. In some embodiments, height 2793' can be about 145% of height 2795'.

[0235] Advantageously, a higher height 2793′ (and / or a higher ratio of 2793′ to height 2795′) (e.g., a higher light barrier in a central region of sensor or module 2700) allows light emitted from the emitter chamber to travel a longer distance before reaching the detector chamber. Light traveling a longer distance can penetrate deeper into the wearer's tissue, which can improve the accuracy of physiological measurements. A lower height 2793′ (and / or a lower ratio of 2793′ to height 2795′) can reduce discomfort to a wearer wearing wearable device 10 or can reduce the amount of pressure the wearable device exerts on the wearer, thereby reducing interference with the wearer's blood flow. Height 2793′ and / or height 2795′ can be selected to balance the aforementioned considerations, such as increasing the depth to which light penetrates into tissue and reducing wearer discomfort or interference with blood flow.

[0236] 6F and 6G show two example embodiments of a sensor or module 2700′ with different light barrier structure configurations. FIGS. 6F and 6G also show example light paths from the emitter chamber to the detector chamber. The light barrier structure 2720′ (or a portion thereof) shown in the example embodiment of FIG. 6F may be taller (e.g., extend farther from the surface of the substrate 2716) and / or wider than the light barrier structure 2720′ (or a portion thereof) shown in the example embodiment of FIG. 6G. The greater height and / or width of the light barrier structure 2720′ in the embodiment of FIG. 6F allows light emitted from the emitter chamber 2778′ to travel a longer distance before reaching the detector chamber, thereby allowing it to penetrate deeper into the wearer's tissue compared to the embodiment of FIG. 6G. Adjusting the height and / or width of the light barrier structure may therefore affect the path light takes from the emitter chamber to the detector chamber, which may affect the accuracy of physiological measurements. The height and / or width of the light barrier structure may be adjusted according to various embodiments as needed and desired.

[0237] FIG. 6H shows a cutaway side view of an example sensor or module 2700′ showing a light-transmitting lens or cover 2702′ and a light-diffusing material. The light-diffusing material may be included in one or more of the emitter or detector chambers to improve distribution of emitted and / or detected light. The diffusing or encapsulating material may include, for example, microspheres or glass microspheres. The encapsulating material may eliminate air gaps between the surface of the light-transmitting cover 2702′ and the emitter and / or detector. The encapsulating material may be included around the emitter to distribute the emitted light more evenly, making the emitted light appear to be emitted from the entire emitter chamber rather than from a point source (i.e., a single LED emitter) in the absence of the encapsulating material. The light-transmitting lens or cover 2702′ may include polycarbonate.

[0238] 7A shows an example of a wearable device 2810. The wearable device 2810 may include structural and / or operational features similar to any of the other example wearable devices shown and / or described herein, such as wearable device 10. The wearable device 2810 may include a strap 2830, a device housing 2801, and a sensor or module 2800. The sensor or module 2800 may include structural and / or operational features similar to any of the other example sensor or module shown and / or described herein, such as sensor or module 100, sensor or module 2700, and / or sensor or module 2700′. The sensor or module 2800 may include a frame 2826 and electrodes 2807A, 2807B. Electrodes 2807A, 2807B may include similar structural and / or operational features to any of the other electrode examples shown and / or described herein, such as electrodes 124 / 125, electrode 2724, and / or electrode 2724'. Electrodes 2807A, 2807B (and / or any of the other electrode examples shown and / or described herein) may be ECG electrodes. Electrode 2807 may be positioned within or along a portion of frame 2826. A surface of electrode 2807 may be flush with a surface of frame 2826.

[0239] The sensor or module 2800 may be disposed within a portion of the device housing 2801. The sensor or module 2800 may face the surface of the user's skin and may contact the user's skin when the wearable device 2810 is worn by the user. The sensor or module 2800 may protrude a distance away from the device housing 2801, which may facilitate contact between the sensor or module 2800 and the user's skin, which may improve physiological measurements.

[0240] Electrode 2807A can be a positive electrode. Electrode 2807A can be a negative electrode. Electrode 2807A can be a reference electrode. Electrode 2807B can be a positive electrode. Electrode 2807B can be a negative electrode. Electrode 2807B can be a reference electrode. In some implementations, electrode 2807A can be a positive or negative electrode, and electrode 2807B can be a positive or negative electrode. In some implementations, electrode 2807A can be either a positive or negative electrode, and electrode 2807B can be a reference electrode. In some implementations, electrode 2807B can be either a positive or negative electrode, and electrode 2807A can be a reference electrode. Device 2810 can include other electrodes (e.g., a third electrode), such as electrode 2807C, which can be positioned on a portion of housing 2801. Electrode 2807C can be positioned on any portion of housing 2801, such as the top, bottom, left side, right side, etc. In some implementations, electrode 2807C may comprise a portion of housing 2801 that extends around the entire perimeter of display 2812. A user can selectively touch electrode 2807C, which may be on a portion of wearable device 2810 opposite electrodes 2807A, 2807B, to perform ECG measurements. Electrically insulating material 127 can separate electrode 2807C from the rest of housing 2801 and / or from other electrodes in the physiological sensor module. When a wearer wants to take a measurement, they can press or touch electrode 2807C using their finger or another part of their body so that the wearer's skin comes into contact with electrode 2807C.

[0241] Example axes are shown superimposed on the example wearable device 2810 shown in FIG. 7A . Axis 2811 may be parallel to a line extending along the length of a user's forearm when the wearable device 2810 is worn by a user. For example, axis 2811 may be substantially parallel to a line extending from a user's elbow to the user's wrist when the wearable device 2810 is worn by a user. Axis 2811 may be perpendicular to a line extending along the length of the strap 2830. Axis 2815 may be perpendicular to a line extending along the length of a user's forearm when the wearable device 2810 is worn by a user. For example, axis 2815 may be substantially perpendicular to a line extending from a user's elbow to the user's wrist when the wearable device 2810 is worn by a user. Axis 2815 may be parallel to a line extending along the length of the strap 2830. Axis 2811 and axis 2815 may be perpendicular to each other.

[0242] Axis 2811 may bisect sensor or module 2800 and / or wearable device 2810. For example, the center of mass of sensor or module 2800 and / or wearable device 2810 may be located at axis 2811. Axis 2815 may bisect sensor or module 2800 and / or wearable device 2810. For example, the center of mass of sensor or module 2800 and / or wearable device 2810 may be located at axis 2815.

[0243] Electrode 2807A can be symmetrical with electrode 2807B about axis 2813. Axis 2813 cannot intersect electrode 2807A. Axis 2813 cannot intersect electrode 2807B. Electrode 2807A can be symmetrical with itself about axis 2817. Electrode 2807B can be symmetrical with itself about axis 2817. Axis 2817 can intersect electrode 2807A. For example, axis 2817 can bisect electrode 2807A. Axis 2817 can intersect electrode 2807B. For example, axis 2817 can bisect electrode 2807B. Axis 2813 and axis 2817 can be orthogonal to each other.

[0244] Electrode 2807A can be annular. Electrode 2807A can be semi-annular. Electrode 2807A can substantially form a half ring. Electrode 2807B can be annular. Electrode 2807B can be semi-annular. Electrode 2807B can substantially form a half ring. In some implementations, electrode 2807A can be the same shape and / or size as electrode 2807B. In some implementations, electrode 2807A can be a different shape and / or size than electrode 2807B. Electrode 2807A can be a mirror image of electrode 2807B across axis 2813. The entirety of electrode 2807A can be located in a portion of the wearable device 2810 that is opposite, with respect to axis 2813, from the portion of wearable device 2810 in which the entirety of electrode 2807B is located. Electrode 2807A can contact a different location on the user's skin than electrode 2807B. For example, electrode 2807A may contact a portion of the user's skin that is on the opposite side of axis 2813 from a portion of the user's skin that electrode 2807B contacts. Advantageously, this may improve measurements because at least electrodes 2807A and 2807B contact different portions of the user's skin, which may improve signal-to-noise ratio or signal artifact detection, etc., by providing a portion of the skin to measure a reference signal that is non-redundant of the portion of the skin used to measure a positive or negative signal.

[0245] Axis 2811 can intersect electrode 2807A. Axis 2811 cannot bisect electrode 2807A. Axis 2815 can intersect electrode 2807A. Axis 2815 cannot bisect electrode 2807A. Axis 2811 can intersect electrode 2807B. Axis 2811 cannot bisect electrode 2807B. Axis 2815 can intersect electrode 2807B. Axis 2815 cannot bisect electrode 2807B.

[0246] The center of mass of electrode 2807A can be located on axis 2817. The center of mass of electrode 2807A cannot be located on axis 2811 or axis 2815. The center of mass of electrode 2807B can be located on axis 2817. The center of mass of electrode 2807B cannot be located on axis 2811 or axis 2815. The center of mass of electrode 2807A can be offset from the center of mass of electrode 2807B. The centers of mass of electrode 2807A and / or electrode 2807B can be offset from the center of mass of sensor or module 2800 and / or wearable device 2810. The center of mass of electrode 2807A can be positioned as a mirror image of the center of mass of electrode 2807B across axis 2813.

[0247] Axis 2813 can be rotated from axis 2811 by an angle θ. The angle θ can be between 0 and 90 degrees. In some implementations, the angle θ can be less than about 10 degrees, less than about 20 degrees, less than about 30 degrees, less than about 40 degrees, less than about 50 degrees, less than about 60 degrees, less than about 70 degrees, less than about 80 degrees, or less than about 90 degrees. In some implementations, the angle θ can be about 45 degrees.

[0248] Axis 2815 can be rotated from axis 2813 at an angle θ. The angle θ can be between 0 and 90 degrees. In some implementations, the angle θ can be less than about 10 degrees, less than about 20 degrees, less than about 30 degrees, less than about 40 degrees, less than about 50 degrees, less than about 60 degrees, less than about 70 degrees, less than about 80 degrees, or less than about 90 degrees. In some implementations, the angle θ can be about 45 degrees.

[0249] Axis 2817 can be rotated from axis 2815 by an angle θC. The angle θC can be between 0 and 90 degrees. In some implementations, the angle θC can be less than about 10 degrees, less than about 20 degrees, less than about 30 degrees, less than about 40 degrees, less than about 50 degrees, less than about 60 degrees, less than about 70 degrees, less than about 80 degrees, or less than about 90 degrees. In some implementations, the angle θC can be about 45 degrees.

[0250] Axis 2817 can be rotated from axis 2811 by an angle θ. The angle θ can be between 0 and 90 degrees. In some implementations, the angle θ can be less than about 10 degrees, less than about 20 degrees, less than about 30 degrees, less than about 40 degrees, less than about 50 degrees, less than about 60 degrees, less than about 70 degrees, less than about 80 degrees, or less than about 90 degrees. In some implementations, the angle θ can be about 45 degrees.

[0251] In some implementations, angle θB can be greater than angle θA. In some implementations, angle θD can be greater than angle θC. In some implementations, angle θD can include the same numerical value as angle θB. In some implementations, angle θC can include the same numerical value as angle θA. In some implementations, angle θA plus angle θB can be equal to 90 degrees. In some implementations, angle θC plus angle θD can be equal to 90 degrees. Axis 2813 can intersect axis 2811 and / or axis 2815. For example, axis 2813 may not be parallel to axis 2811 and / or axis 2815. Axis 2817 can intersect axis 2811 and / or axis 2815. For example, axis 2817 may not be parallel to axis 2811 and / or axis 2815.

[0252] The wearable device 2810 can rotate about axis 2811 or axis 2815, such as when a user presses on the side of the wearable device 2810 opposite the sensor or module 2800, as shown in FIG. 7B . For example, a user presses on electrode 2807C to take an ECG measurement, which can cause the wearable device 2810 to rotate about axis 2811 and / or axis 2815. In some implementations, a user can normally touch a portion of electrode 2807C adjacent to strap 2830, which can cause the wearable device 2810 to rotate about axis 2811. In some implementations, a user can normally touch a portion of electrode 2807C between the straps 2830, such as on the side of the wearable device 2810, which can cause the wearable device 2810 to rotate about axis 2815. In some implementations, the wearable device 2810 may be more likely to rotate about axis 2811 or axis 2815 than about any other axis in the same plane. For example, the wearable device 2810 may have a smaller moment of inertia about axis 2811 or axis 2815 than about any other axis in the same plane. For example, the device 2810 may be more likely to tilt, pivot, rotate, etc. about axis 2811 or 2815 than about other axes in the same plane. This may be, in part, because a user may more commonly contact a portion of the electrode 2807C along axis 2811 and / or axis 2815 and / or because a portion of the electrode 2807C may be located along axis 2811 and / or axis 2815.

[0253] In some implementations, the wearable device 2810 may be less likely to rotate about axis 2813 or axis 2817 than about axis 2811 or axis 2815. In some implementations, the wearable device 2810 may be less likely to rotate about axis 2813 or axis 2817 than about any other axis in the same plane. This may be in part because a user may not be able to more normally contact a portion of the electrode 2807C that is not positioned along axis 2811 and / or axis 2815 and / or because a portion of the electrode 2807C may not be able to lie along axis 2811 and / or axis 2815. Furthermore, this may be in part because the wearable device 2810 may have a larger moment of inertia about axis 2813 or axis 2817 than about any other axis in the same plane. For example, device 2810 may exhibit more resistance to tilting, pivoting, rotation, etc. about axis 2813 or 2817 compared to other axes in the same plane. For example, strap 2830 may prevent device 2810 from tilting, pivoting, and / or rotating along either axis 2813 or axis 2817. For example, rotation about axis 2813 or axis 2817 may require a force large enough to twist strap 2830, while rotation about axis 2811 or axis 2815 may not require twisting strap 2830. Furthermore, rotation about axis 2811 or axis 2815 may require more twisting of strap 2830 (and therefore more torsional force) compared to rotation about any other axis in the same plane. Thus, regardless of where the user presses on the device housing 2801, such as to contact the electrode 2807C, and / or regardless of where the electrode 2807C is positioned on the device housing 2801, the strap 2830 can prevent rotation of the wearable device 2810 along the axis 2813 and / or the axis 2817.

[0254] Electrodes 2807A, 2807B may intersect each of the axes along which rotation most commonly occurs. For example, electrode 2807A may intersect axis 2811 and axis 2815. Thus, at least a portion of electrode 2807A is likely to maintain contact with the user's skin when wearable device 2810 is rotating, such as near axis 2811 and / or 2815, because rotation about either axis 2811 or axis 2815 does not tend to move these axes away from the user's skin during rotation about their respective axes. As another example, electrode 2807B may intersect axis 2811 and axis 2815. Thus, at least a portion of electrode 2807B is likely to maintain contact with the user's skin, at least for the reasons provided for electrode 2807A.

[0255] 7B shows an additional view of an example of a wearable device 2810 that may be the opposite side of the wearable device 2810 as shown in FIG. 7A. The wearable device 2810 may include a strap 2830, a display screen 2812, a device housing 2801, and an electrode 2807C. The electrode 2807C may be disposed in or along a surface of the device housing 2801. The device housing 2801 may include the electrode 2807C. The electrode 2807C may be integral with the device housing 2801. A portion of the device housing 2801 can function as the electrode 2807C. For example, the device housing 2801 may include a conductive material configured to measure electrical activity detected at the user's skin.

[0256] Electrode 2807C can be a positive electrode. Electrode 2807C can be a negative electrode. Electrode 2807C can be a reference electrode. In some implementations, a user can contact electrode 2807C on a part of their body that is different from the part of their body where they wear wearable device 2810. For example, a user can wear wearable device 2810 on their left wrist and contact electrode 2807C with a finger of their right hand. In some implementations, electrode 2807C can measure a positive or negative electrical signal on a first part of the user's body, either electrode 2807A or electrode 2807B can measure the opposite signal (either positive or negative) of electrode 2807C on another part of the user's body, and either electrode 2807A or electrode 2807B can measure a reference signal. The part of the user's body can be opposite the user's heart. For example, the user's heart can be between the user's left and right hands.

[0257] The electrode 2807C can extend around the periphery or perimeter of the wearable device 2810 or the device housing 2801. The electrode 2807C can be adjacent to the display screen 2812. The electrode 2807C may surround a portion of the display screen 2812. The electrode 2807C may surround the display screen 2812. The electrode 2807C may surround the entire display screen 2812. For example, the electrode 2807C may continuously surround the display screen 2812. In some implementations, the electrode 2807C forms a closed loop along which a user can touch any point to perform a measurement. In some implementations, the wearable device 2810 may comprise multiple discrete areas of the device housing 2801 and include multiple electrodes 2807C that all measure the same electrode signal, such as all positive, all negative, or all reference. For example, the wearable device 2810 may include electrodes 2807C disposed in the top, bottom, left, and / or right portions of the device housing 2801.

[0258] Electrode 2807C may be disposed on a top surface of device housing 2801. For example, electrode 2807C, or a portion thereof, may be parallel or substantially parallel to display screen 2812. Electrode 2807C may also be disposed on a side surface of device housing 2801.

[0259] 7C shows an example of a wearable device 2810′. The wearable device 2810′ may include similar structural and / or operational features to any of the other example wearable devices shown and / or described herein, such as the wearable device 2810. The wearable device 2810′ may include a device housing 2801′, a strap 2830′, and a sensor or module 2800′. The sensor or module 2800′ may include a frame 2826′, an electrode 2807A′, an electrode 2807B′, an emitter chamber 2806A′, and an emitter chamber 2806B′. The emitter chamber 2806A′ may enclose a first group of emitters mounted to a substrate, such as a PCB, of the sensor or module 2800′. Emitter chamber 2806B' can enclose a second group of emitters mounted to a substrate, such as a PCB, of sensor or module 2800'.

[0260] Examples of axes 2815′ and 2811′ are shown superimposed on the example wearable device 2810′ shown in FIG. 7C. Axes 2815′ and 2811′ may include similar features as axes 2815 and 2811, respectively, shown and / or discussed with respect to FIG. 7A. Axis 2815′ may bisect wearable device 2810′. Axis 2815′ may bisect sensor or module 2800′. Axis 2815′ may not intersect electrode 2807A′. Axis 2815′ may not intersect electrode 2807B′. Axis 2815′ may not intersect emitter chamber 2806A′. Axis 2815′ may not intersect emitter chamber 2806B′. Electrodes 2807A′ and 2807B′ may be symmetrical across axis 2815′. For example, electrodes 2807A' and 2807B' can be mirror images of each other across axis 2815'. Emitter chambers 2806A' and 2806B' can be symmetrical across axis 2815'. For example, emitter chambers 2806A' and 2806B' can be mirror images of each other across axis 2815'.

[0261] Axis 2811' can intersect electrode 2807A'. Axis 2811' can bisect electrode 2807A'. For example, electrode 2807A' can be symmetrical with itself across axis 2811'. Axis 2811' can intersect electrode 2807B'. Axis 2811' can bisect electrode 2807B'. For example, electrode 2807B' can be symmetrical with itself across axis 2811'.

[0262] 8 shows a front view of an example sensor or module 2820. The sensor or module 2820 may include similar structural and / or operational features as any of the other example sensors or modules shown and / or described herein. The sensor or module 2820 may include an electrode 2807A, an electrode 2807B, and a frame 2826.

[0263] Frame 2826 may include receiving portions 2808A-2808F. Receiving portions 2808A-2808F may be sized to receive a portion of electrode 2807A and / or electrode 2807B. For example, receiving portions 2808A-2808C may be sized to receive a portion of electrode 2807A such that a portion of electrode 2807A is exposed through receiving portions 2808A-2808C. As another example, receiving portions 2808D-2808F may be sized to receive a portion of electrode 2807B such that a portion of electrode 2807B is exposed through receiving portions 2808D-2808F. In some implementations, a majority of the surface area of ​​the surface of electrode 2807A may be exposed through receiving portions 2808A-2808C. In some implementations, a majority of the surface area of ​​the surface of electrode 2807B may be exposed through receiving portions 2808D-2808F. A portion of the electrode 2807A exposed through the receiving portions 2808A-2808C may be flush with a portion of the frame 2826 surrounding the receiving portions 2808A-2808C. A portion of the electrode 2807B exposed through the receiving portions 2808D-2808F may be flush with a portion of the frame 2826 surrounding the receiving portions 2808D-2808F.

[0264] The receiving portions 2808A-2808F can form a ring. The receiving portions 2808A-2808C can form a half ring or substantially half a ring. The receiving portions 2808D-2808F can form a half ring or substantially half a ring.

[0265] 8, the frame 2826 includes six receptacles. In some implementations, the frame may include one receptacle, two receptacles, three receptacles, four receptacles, five receptacles, or more than six receptacles. In some implementations, the frame 2826 may include the same number of receptacles as there are electrodes, such as one receptacle per electrode. In some implementations, the frame 2826 may include a different number of receptacles than there are electrodes.

[0266] Frame 2826 may include cover portions 2809A-2809D. Cover portions 2809A-2809B may secure electrode 2807A within sensor or module 2820. Cover portions 2809A-2809B may secure electrode 2807B within sensor or module 2820. Cover portion 2809A may have a width D1. Cover portion 2809B may have a width D2. Cover portion 2809C may have a width D4. Cover portion 2809D may have a width D5. In the example implementation shown in FIG. 8 , frame 2826 includes four cover portions. In some implementations, the frame may include one cover portion, two cover portions, three cover portions, or five or more cover portions. Frame 2826 may include twice as many cover portions as electrodes. Frame 2826 may include two cover portions per electrode. As another example, the frame may include one cover portion per electrode. As another example, the frame may include three cover portions per electrode. Any number of cover portions per electrode is contemplated. In some implementations, the frame 2826 may include a different number of cover portions for some electrodes than for other electrodes.

[0267] Frame 2826 can include dividers 2819A and 2819B. Dividers 2819A, 2819B can separate electrode 2807A from electrode 2807B. For example, dividers 2819A, 2819B can electrically insulate electrode 2807A from electrode 2807B.

[0268] In some implementations, D1 = D2. In some implementations, D4 = D5. In some implementations, D1 = D2 = D4 = D5. In some implementations, D3 = D6. In some implementations, D1 = D2 = D3 = D4 = D5 = D6. In some implementations, D1 = D2 = D3 = D4 = D5 = D6. In some implementations, one or more of D1, D2, D3, D4, D5, D6 have a different length than one or more of D1, D2, D3, D4, D5, D6. In some implementations, cover portions 2809A-2809D and dividers 2819A, 2819B are equally spaced from each other in a ring around the periphery of frame 2826 or sensor or module 2820. D1 can have a length of less than 7 mm, less than 6 mm, less than 5 mm, less than 4 mm, less than 3.5 mm, less than 3 mm, less than 2.5 mm, etc., as non-limiting examples.

[0269] 9A is a perspective exploded view of an example sensor or module 2820. Sensor or module 2820 may include a substrate 2818. Substrate 2818 may comprise a printed circuit board (PCB). Sensor or module 2820 may include electrode 2807A and electrode 2807B. Sensor or module 2820 may include a frame 2826. Frame 2826 may include receptacles 2808A-2808C. A portion of electrode 2807A may be exposed through receptacles 2808A-2808C. For example, a portion of electrode 2807A may contact a user's skin through receptacles 2808A-2808C. Frame 2826 may include receptacles 2808D-2808F. A portion of electrode 2807B may be exposed through receptacles 2808D-2808F. For example, a portion of electrode 2807B can contact the user's skin through receptacles 2808D-2808F. In some implementations, electrode 2807A and electrode 2807B can be oriented differently relative to other components of sensor or module 2820, such as substrate 2818 and / or frame 2826. For example, electrode 2807A and electrode 2807B can be oriented as shown and / or described with respect to FIG. 9B. As another example, electrode 2807A and electrode 2807B can be oriented as shown and / or described with respect to, for example, FIG. 5A or 6D.

[0270] 9B is a perspective exploded view of an example sensor or module 2840. The sensor or module 2840 may include a substrate 2821. The substrate 2821 may comprise a printed circuit board (PCB). One or more emitters may be disposed on the substrate 2821. One or more detectors may be disposed on the substrate 2821. The sensor or module 2840 may include light-transmitting covers 2822A, 2822B. The light-transmitting cover 2822A may cover one or more emitters mounted to the substrate 2821. The light-transmitting cover 2822B may cover one or more detectors mounted to the substrate 2821. In some implementations, the light-transmitting covers 2822A, 2822B may form a single body. In some implementations, the light-transmitting cover 2822A may be a separate and distinct component from the light-transmitting cover 2822B.

[0271] Sensor or module 2840 may include electrode 2827A and electrode 2827B. Sensor or module 2840 may include frame 2836. Frame 2836 may include receptacles 2828A-2828F, which may be openings in frame 2836. A portion of electrode 2827A may be exposed through receptacles 2828A-2828C. A portion of electrode 2827B may be exposed through receptacles 2828D-2828F. For example, a portion of electrode 2827A and / or 2827B may contact the user's skin through receptacles 2828A-2828F and may conduct electrical signals originating from the user via contact with the user's skin. Frame 2836 may include one receptacle per electrode, or two or more receptacles per electrode.

[0272] Any of the example receivers, such as receivers 2828A-2828F, can include one or more apertures. For example, receiver 2828B can include aperture 2814. Aperture 2814 can connect an outer surface of frame 2836 with an inner surface of frame 2836 and / or an interior region of sensor or module 2840. Aperture 2814 can facilitate an electrical connection between electrode 2827A and substrate 2821. For example, a conductive material can be disposed through aperture 2814 and can contact electrode 2827A and substrate 2821. Aperture 2814 can be circular. Aperture 2814 can be elongated. Any of the example receivers 2828A-2828F can include the same or different numbers of apertures, such as zero, one, two, three, four, or five or more apertures.

[0273] The frame 2836 may include cover portions 2829A-2829D. The electrode 2827A may include recessed portions 2825A, 2825B. The recessed portions 2825A, 2825B may form a non-uniform surface with other adjacent portions of the electrode 2827A. The recessed portions 2825A, 2825B may not be exposed. For example, the recessed portions 2825A, 2825B may not contact the user's skin. The cover portions 2829A, 2829B may cover the recessed portions 2825A, 2825B, respectively. The cover portions 2829A, 2829B may be configured to receive the recessed portions 2825A, 2825B, respectively. The cover portions 2829A, 2829B may secure the electrode 2827A to the sensor or module 2840. Frame 2836 may include a similar cover portion configured to secure electrode 2827B. Electrode 2827B may include recessed portions 2855A-2855B. Cover portions 2829C-2829D may cover recessed portions 2855A-2855B.

[0274] Frame 2836 may include dividers 2839A-2839B. Dividers 2839A-2839B may separate electrode 2827A from electrode 2827B. Dividers 2839A-2839B may electrically insulate electrode 2827A from electrode 2827B. At least a portion of dividers 2839A-2839B may cover at least a portion of electrodes 2827A-2827B, such as end portions of electrodes 2827A-2827B.

[0275] 10A is a cross-sectional side view of an example sensor or module including a frame 2836, an electrode 2827A, and a substrate 2821. The electrode 2827A may be disposed within and / or secured to the frame 2836. The frame 2836 may include cover portions 2829A, 2829B. The cover portions 2829A, 2829B may be configured to cover a portion of the electrode 2827A to secure the electrode 2827A to the frame 2836.

[0276] The cover portion 2829B may include posts 2831. The posts 2831 may be sized and / or shaped to penetrate openings in the electrode 2827A, such as the through-holes 2843A shown and / or described with reference to FIG. 11. The posts 2831 may insulate adjacent portions of the electrode 2827A from the interior region 2835 of the frame 2836. The posts 2831 may be configured to prevent substantial movement of the electrode 2827A.

[0277] Frame 2836 may include shaft 2833. Shaft 2833 may extend into cover portion 2829A. Shaft 2833 may extend through a portion of frame 2836 below cover portion 2829A. Shaft 2833 may receive a conductive material that may contact electrode 2827A through opening 2832 and may contact substrate 2821 through interior region 2835. A through-hole in electrode 2827A may surround shaft 2833.

[0278] The shaft 2833 may include an opening 2832. The opening 2832 may expose an adjacent portion of the electrode 2827A to an interior region 2835 of the frame 2836. The interior region 2835 of the frame 2836 may be the space between the frame 2836 and / or the electrode 2827A and the substrate 2821. In some implementations, the electrode 2827A may be electrically connected to the substrate 2821 through the opening 2832. For example, a conductive material disposed in the interior region 2835 of the frame 2836 may contact the electrode 2827A and may also contact the substrate 2821 through the opening 2832.

[0279] Frame 2836 may include opening 2814. Opening 2814 may expose electrode 2827A to interior region 2835. Opening 2814 may be configured to facilitate a physical and / or electrical connection between substrate 2821 and electrode 2827A. For example, a conductive material may be disposed through opening 2814 and contact electrode 2827A and substrate 2821.

[0280] FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional view of frame 2836 including a cross-sectional view of receiving portion 2828B including opening 2814. Opening 2814 can be continuous with interior region 2835. A substrate, such as substrate 2821 shown in FIG. 10A , can be positioned within the frame below and / or adjacent to interior region 2835. Opening 2814 can expose interior region 2835 to an exterior of frame 2836. Opening 2814 can expose interior region 2835 to an electrode positioned on or within receiving portion 2828B. A conductive material can fully or partially fill interior region 2835, including opening 2814. For example, the conductive material can electrically couple a substrate positioned adjacent interior region 2835 to an electrode positioned within receiving portion 2828B through opening 2814. The receiving portion 2828B may have any number of openings 2814 which may have any size and / or shape.

[0281] The post 2831 can be positioned adjacent the cover portion 2829B. The post 2831 can extend through a through-hole in an electrode carried by the frame 2836. The post 2831 can extend from the cover portion 2829B through the electrode to a portion of the frame 2836 adjacent the cover portion. The post 2831 can include a solid interior. The post 2831 can include a hollow interior. The post 2831 can include material that is continuous with an adjacent portion of the frame 2836.

[0282] The shaft 2833 can be positioned adjacent the cover portion 2829A. The shaft 2833 can extend at least partially through a through-hole in an electrode held by the frame 2836. The shaft 2833 can extend from the cover portion 2829A. The opening 2832 can expose a portion of the electrode positioned below the cover portion 2829A to an interior region 2835 of the frame 2836. A conductive material can contact a portion of the electrode through the opening 2832 and can contact a substrate positioned within the frame 2836 adjacent the interior region 2835. The electrode positioned below the cover portion 2829A can be in electrical communication with the substrate positioned within the frame 2836 through the opening 2832. The shaft 2833 can include a hollow interior that can accommodate a portion of the conductive material in contact with the electrode and the substrate. In some implementations, the shaft 2833 can include a solid interior.

[0283] 11 is a cross-sectional view of example electrodes 2827A, 2827B and substrate 2821 of a sensor or module. Electrode 2827B can include any of the features of electrode 2827A shown in any of the figures and / or described anywhere herein, or vice versa. Electrode 2827B can be symmetrical to electrode 2827A. Electrode 2827B can be a mirror image of electrode 2827A. Electrode 2827A can include through-holes 2843A, 2843B. Electrode 2827B can include through-holes 2853A, 2853B. Through-holes 2843A, 2843B can be disposed within recessed portions 2825A, 2825B. Through-holes 2853A, 2853B can be disposed within recessed portions 2855A, 2855B. In some implementations, the electrode 2827A may not include through-holes 2843A, 2843B and / or recessed portions 2825A, 2825B. In some implementations, the electrode 2827B may not include through-holes 2853A, 2853B and / or recessed portions 2855A, 2855B.

[0284] The electrode 2827A may include an outer surface 2841. A portion of the outer surface 2841 may be exposed and may contact the user's skin. In some implementations, less than all of the outer surface 2841 is exposed to and / or contacts the user's skin. For example, portions of the outer surface 2841 in the recessed portions 2825A, 2825B may not be exposed to and / or contact the user's skin. The outer surface 2841 may not be uniform, flat, horizontal, and / or planar. The outer surface 2841 may include irregularities, such as recessed portions 2825A, 2825B.

[0285] The through-holes 2843A, 2843B can be disposed in a plane that is substantially parallel to a plane in which a portion of the exterior surface adjacent the opening is disposed. The through-holes 2843A, 2843B can be disposed in a plane that is substantially parallel to a plane created by the user's skin adjacent the through-holes 2843A, 2843B.

[0286] Electrode 2827A can include an inner surface 2842. Inner surface 2842 can be substantially parallel to and / or substantially planar with outer surface 2841. In some implementations, inner surface 2842 can be non-parallel to and / or non-planar with outer surface 2841.

[0287] The outer surface 2841 and / or the inner surface 2842 may be non-planar. For example, the outer surface 2841 can substantially form a portion of a substantially conical or spherical surface. As another example, the outer surface 2841 may be flush with a substantially conical or convex surface of a sensor or module frame. As another example, the outer surface 2841 may be non-parallel to a substantially planar surface 2823 of a sensor or module substrate 2821. As another example, a cross section of the outer surface 2841 and / or the inner surface 2842 may be angled relative to the surface 2823 of the sensor or module substrate 2821. The surface 2823 may be a surface of the substrate 2821 on which the emitters and / or detectors are positioned.

[0288] In some implementations, the electrodes 2827A and 2827B may be oriented differently relative to the substrate 2821. For example, the electrodes 2827A and 2827B may be oriented as shown and / or described with respect to FIG.

[0289] The through-hole 2843B can be positioned within the recessed portion 2825B. The through-hole 2843B can extend through the electrode 2827A. The through-hole 2843B can be a through-hole or a via. The through-hole 2843B can be circular, as shown. In some implementations, the through-hole 2843B can include other shapes, such as a rectangle or a triangle. The center of the through-hole 2843B can be positioned equidistant between the outer edge 2837A and the inner edge 2838A. The through-hole 2843B can have a diameter of less than 2.0 mm, less than 1.5 mm, less than 1.0 mm, less than 0.5 mm, etc., by way of non-limiting example. The through-holes 2843A, 2853A, or 2853B can have any of the features shown and / or described with respect to the through-hole 2843B. The center of through-hole 2843B can be positioned equidistant between through-hole 2843A and the end of electrode 2827A. The center of through-hole 2843A can be positioned equidistant between through-hole 2843B and the other end of electrode 2827A.

[0290] Electrode 2827A may include portion 2863, portion 2864, and portion 2865. Portion 2863 may be adjacent to recessed portion 2825B. Portion 2863 may be between recessed portion 2825B and the edge of electrode 2827A. Portion 2864 may be between recessed portions 2825B and 2825A. Portion 2865 may be adjacent to recessed portion 2825A. Portion 2865 may be between recessed portion 2825A and the edge of electrode 2827A. Portions 2863, 2864, and / or 2865, or their surfaces, may be exposed outside frame 2836 and may come into contact with the user's skin. Portion 2863 may be similar in size to portions 2864 and / or 2865.

[0291] The electrode 2827A may include an outer edge 2837A. The outer edge 2837A may be substantially circular from a top view, as shown in FIG. 11 . A portion of the outer edge 2837A may define at least a portion of a circle. For example, the portion of the outer edge 2837A extending along electrode portions 2863, 2864, and / or 2865 may define a portion of one or more circles. In some implementations, the portions of the outer edge 2837A extending along portions 2863, 2864, and 2865 may define different portions of the same circle. The outer edge 2837A or portions thereof may define a circle having a diameter of less than 50 mm, less than 40 mm, less than 35 mm, less than 30 mm, less than 25 mm, less than 20 mm, etc., as non-limiting examples. The electrode 2827B may have an outer edge 2867B. The outer edge 2867B, or a portion thereof, can define at least a portion of one or more circles, which can coincide with the one or more circles defined by the outer edge 2837A.

[0292] The electrode 2827A may include an inner edge 2838A. The inner edge 2838A may be substantially circular from a top view, as shown in FIG. 11 . A portion of the inner edge 2838A may define at least a portion of a circle. For example, a portion of the inner edge 2838A extending along electrode portions 2863, 2864, and / or 2865 may define a portion of one or more circles. The inner edge 2838A, or a portion thereof, may define a circle having a diameter of less than 45 mm, less than 40 mm, less than 35 mm, less than 30 mm, less than 25 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 15 mm, etc., by way of non-limiting example. The electrode 2827B may have an inner edge 2868B. The inner edge 2868B, or a portion thereof, may define at least a portion of one or more circles, which may coincide with the circle or circles defined by the inner edge 2838A. The inner edge 2838A, or a portion thereof, can be parallel to the outer edge 2837A. In some implementations, the inner edge 2838A, or a portion thereof, can be non-parallel to the outer edge 2837A. The inner edge 2868B, or a portion thereof, can be parallel to the outer edge 2867B. In some implementations, the inner edge 2868B, or a portion thereof, can be parallel to the outer edge 2867B. In some implementations, the electrode 2827A can be shaped and / or sized differently than the electrode 2827B.

[0293] 11 as being circular, annular, or semi-annular, electrodes 2827A, 2827B, or other example electrodes shown and / or described herein, may be shaped differently. For example, any of the electrodes shown and / or described herein may be rectangular, semi-circular, half-circular, triangular, U-shaped, or the like. As another example, outer edge 2837A and / or inner edge 2838A may define a non-circular curvature. For example, outer edge 2837A and / or inner edge 2838A may include one or more angles when viewed from a top view.

[0294] The electrode 2827A can have a width between the outer edge 2837A and the inner edge 2838A that is less than 5 mm, less than 4 mm, less than 3.5 mm, less than 3 mm, less than 2.5 mm, etc., by way of non-limiting example.

[0295] Electrode 2827A can have a thickness between outer surface 2841 and inner surface 2842 of less than 0.3 mm, less than 0.25 mm, less than 0.2 mm, less than 0.15 mm, etc., as non-limiting examples.

[0296] 12A is a side view of electrode 2827A. Electrode 2827A can include recessed portions 2825A, 2825B. Recessed portions 2825A, 2825B can be curved. Recessed portions 2825A, 2825B can be curved relative to adjacent portions of electrode 2827A. Recessed portions 2825A, 2825B can have a different curvature than other portions of electrode 2827A, such as portions adjacent to recessed portions 2825A, 2825B. Recessed portions 2825A, 2825B can interrupt the continuity of other portions of electrode 2827A. Recessed portions 2825A, 2825B can be non-uniform relative to other portions of electrode 2827A, such as portions adjacent to recessed portions 2825A, 2825B. The recessed portions 2825A, 2825B can be disposed between adjacent portions of the electrode 2827A that are configured to contact the user's skin. The recessed portions 2825A, 2825B can also not contact the user's skin.

[0297] Electrode 2827A can include end portions 2849A, 2849B. End portions 2849A, 2849B can be angled relative to adjacent portions of electrode 2827A. For example, end portions 2849A, 2849B can be orthogonal to adjacent portions of electrode 2827A. End portions 2849A, 2849B can include apertures, such as through-holes 2848A-2848D. End portion 2849A can include one aperture, two apertures, three apertures, or more than four apertures. End portion 2849B can include one aperture, two apertures, three apertures, or more than four apertures. End portion 2849A can include the same number of apertures as end portion 2849B. End portion 2849A can include a different number of apertures than end portion 2849B. In some implementations, end portion 2849A and / or end portion 2849B may not include any openings. Through-holes 2848A-2848D may be configured to receive a portion of a frame of a sensor or module. Through-holes 2848A-2848D may be configured to secure electrode 2827A to the frame of the sensor or module. End portions 2849A, 2849B may be configured to prevent electrode 2827A from moving relative to the frame of the sensor or module.

[0298] The electrode 2827A can include an inner edge 2838A that extends along the electrode 2827A. The inner edge 2838A can extend continuously along the electrode 2827A, such as from end portion 2849A to end portion 2849B along recessed portion 2825A and recessed portion 2825B. In some implementations, the inner edge 2838A can be curved, beveled, chamfered, or the like.

[0299] 12B is another side view of electrode 2827A. Electrode 2827A can include an outer surface 2841 extending along electrode 2827A. Outer surface 2841 can be disposed between outer edge 2837A and inner edge 2838A. Outer surface 2841 can extend along portion 2863, recessed portion 2825B, portion 2864, recessed portion 2825A, and portion 2865. A portion of outer surface 2841 can be exposed to the outside and can contact the user's skin. For example, portions of outer surface 2841 extending along portion 2863, portion 2864, and / or portion 2865 can contact the user's skin. A portion of outer surface 2841 may be prevented from contacting the user's skin because it is separated from the user's skin by at least a distance and / or is covered by a portion of frame 2836 so as to be not exposed and / or prevented from contacting the user's skin. For example, a portion of outer surface 2841 extending along recessed portion 2825B and / or recessed portion 2825A may be recessed a distance from the user's skin and / or may be prevented by frame 2836 from contacting the user's skin.

[0300] The outer edge 2837A can extend along the length of the electrode 2827A. The outer edge 2837A can extend continuously along the electrode 2827A along one or more of the end portion 2849B, portion 2863, recessed portion 2825B, portion 2864, recessed portion 2825A, portion 2865, and / or end portion 2849A. For example, the recessed portion 2825B can share a continuous edge with portions 2863 and 2864. In some implementations, the outer edge 2837A can be curved, beveled, chamfered, etc.

[0301] FIG. 13A is a side view of electrode 2827A and electrode 2827B. Electrode 2827A and electrode 2827B may be shown in FIG. 13A positioned relative to one another as they are positioned in frame 2836 in a sensor module. End portion 2849A may be positioned at an end of electrode 2827A. End portion 2849A may be adjacent to portion 2865. Inner edge 2838A and / or outer edge 2837A may extend along end portion 2849A. End transition 2851A may extend from portion 2865 to end portion 2849A. End transition 2851A may be curved, beveled, chamfered, or may have a sharp edge, etc. End portion 2849A can extend from an adjacent portion of electrode 2827A (e.g., portion 2865) at an angle, such as a 90-degree angle. For example, the outer edge 2837A can include an angle (e.g., a bend or curve) between the portion 2865 and the end portion 2849A. As shown, the outer edge 2837A can include a 90-degree bend between the portion 2865 and the end portion 2849A. The inner edge 2838A can also include an angled bend between the portion 2865 and the end portion 2849A. In some implementations, the end portion 2849A can extend less than 90 degrees, or in some implementations, more than 90 degrees, from the adjacent portion 2865 of the electrode 2827A. The electrode 2827B can include an end portion 2859A and an end transition portion 2852A, which can include similar features as shown and / or described with respect to the electrode 2827A. As shown, the end portion 2849A can be parallel to the end portion 2859A.

[0302] FIG. 13B is another side view of electrode 2827A and electrode 2827B. Electrode 2827A and electrode 2827B may be shown in FIG. 13B positioned relative to one another as they are within frame 2836. Electrode 2827A may include recessed transition portions 2857 and 2858. Recessed portion 2825A may be positioned between recessed transition portions 2857 and 2858. Recessed transition portion 2857 may form a portion of outer surface 2841. Recessed transition portion 2857 may be positioned between portion 2864 and recessed portion 2825A. Recessed transition portion 2857 may be curved, beveled, chamfered, or may have a sharp edge, etc. Recessed transition portion 2858 may form a portion of outer surface 2841. Recessed transition portion 2858 may be positioned between portion 2864 and recessed portion 2825A. Recessed transition 2858 may be curved, beveled, chamfered, or may have a sharp edge, etc. Inner edge 2838A and / or outer edge 2837A may extend continuously along recessed transition 2857 from portion 2864 to recessed portion 2825A.

[0303] The recessed portion 2825A can be substantially cylindrical. A portion of the outer surface 2841 extending along the recessed portion 2825A can form a portion of the cylinder.

[0304] FIG. 13C is a perspective view of electrode 2827A and electrode 2827B. Electrode 2827A and electrode 2827B may be shown in FIG. 13C positioned relative to one another as they are within frame 2836. Inner edge 2838A can extend along recessed portion 2825A between portion 2864 and portion 2865. The portion of inner edge 2838A extending along recessed portion 2825A can be substantially semicircular. For example, the portion of inner edge 2838A extending along recessed portion 2825A can form a portion of a circle. The portion of outer edge 2837A extending along recessed portion 2825A can be substantially semicircular, e.g., can form a portion of a circle. In some implementations, inner edge 2838A and / or outer edge 2837A may define a portion of a non-circular curvature. A curve (e.g., a circle) at least partially defined by a portion of inner edge 2838A extending along recessed portion 2825A may intersect a circle partially defined by a portion of inner edge 2838A extending along portion 2864 or portion 2865. A curve (e.g., a circle) at least partially defined by a portion of outer edge 2837A extending along recessed portion 2825A may intersect a circle partially defined by a portion of outer edge 2837A extending along portion 2864 or portion 2865.

[0305] FIG. 14 is a perspective cross-sectional view of an example frame 2836 of a sensor or module. The frame 2836 can include protrusions 2844A-2844D. The protrusions 2844A-2844D can be configured to secure to a portion of the electrode, such as an end portion. For example, the protrusions 2844A-2844D can fit inside an opening in the electrode, such as the through-holes 2848A-2848D shown and / or described with respect to FIG. 12A. The protrusions 2844A-2844D can secure the electrode to the frame 2836. The protrusions 2844A-2844D can prevent the electrode from moving relative to the frame 2836. In some implementations, the frame 2836 can include fewer than four protrusions or more than five protrusions. The protrusions 2844A-2844D can be cylindrical. The protrusions 2844A-2844D can be rectangular.

[0306] 15 is a cross-sectional view of a frame 2836 of a sensor or module. The frame 2836 can include a divider 2839A and a divider 2839B. The divider 2839A can be positioned between the receiver 2828A and the receiver 2828F. The divider 2839A can be positioned between an electrode positioned in the receiver 2828A and an electrode positioned in the receiver 2828F. The divider 2839A can electrically insulate the electrode positioned in the receiver 2828A from the electrode positioned in the receiver 2828F. The divider 2839A can cover at least a portion of one or more electrodes, such as an end portion of the electrode. Frame 2836 can include protrusions 2844A-2844B and 2874A-2874B extending away from divider 2839A, which can extend through the electrode to secure the electrode within frame 2836. Protrusions 2874A, 2874B can be positioned on the side of divider 2839A opposite protrusions 2844A, 2844B. As shown, a portion of the electrode positioned in receiver 2828A (or an electrode positioned in receiver 2828F) can extend into frame 2836 and can be enclosed within frame 2836 adjacent divider 2839A.

[0307] As discussed herein and shown in FIG. 2 , the wearable device 10 can communicate with external devices, for example, wirelessly. FIG. 16 shows a block diagram illustrating an example embodiment of the wearable device 10 communicating with an external device 2802. The communication may be wireless, such as, but not limited to, Bluetooth and / or near field communication (NFC) wireless communications. As shown in FIG. 2 , the wearable device 10 can communicate with any number and / or types of external devices 2802, which may include patient monitors 202, mobile communication devices 204 (e.g., smartphones), computers 206 (which may be laptops or desktops), tablets 208, nurse station systems 210, and / or eyeglasses, such as smart glasses, configured to display images on a surface. The external devices 2802 may include a health application 2804. The terms “external device” and “computing device” may be used interchangeably herein.

[0308] A user can operate the external device 2802 as described herein. A wearer can wear the wearable device 10. In some implementations, the user of the external device 2802 and the wearer of the wearable device 10 are different people. In some implementations, the user of the external device 2802 and the wearer of the wearable device 10 are the same person. The terms "user," "wearer," and "patient" can be used interchangeably herein and can all refer to a person wearing the wearable device 10 and / or using the health application 2804, and their use in any of the given examples is not meant to be a limitation of the present disclosure.

[0309] The wearable device 10 can communicate information such as physiological data of the wearer / user to the external device 2802. The external device 2802 can display the physiological parameters received from the wearable device 10 as described herein.

[0310] The external device 2802 can control the operation of the wearable device 10, for example, via a wireless connection as described herein. For example, the external device 2802 can cause the wearable device 10 to start or stop taking measurements of the wearer's physiological parameters. In some embodiments, the wearable device 10 can continuously measure and communicate the wearer's physiological parameters to the external device 2802. In some embodiments, the external device 2802 can continuously display the wearer's physiological parameters received from the wearable device 10. In some embodiments, the wearable device 10 can measure and communicate the physiological parameters to the external device 2802 for a finite length of time, such as one minute, upon receiving user input at the external device 2802 communicated to the wearable device 10.

[0311] 17 illustrates an example of an interactive graphical user interface of a health application 2804 according to some aspects of the present disclosure. In various aspects, aspects of the user interface may be rearranged from those shown and described below, and / or specific aspects may or may not be included. The health application 2804 may execute on the external device 2802 to present the graphical user interface of FIG. 17. As described herein, the health application 2804 may receive a respective client configuration package that results in the presentation of the graphical user interface of FIG. 17. The graphical user interface of FIG. 17 may have similar user interface elements and / or capabilities.

[0312] 17 is a diagram illustrating an example dashboard user interface 2900 of the health application 2804. The dashboard user interface 2900 may display the wearer's current physiological parameters 2902, such as pulse rate, SpO2, RRp, PVi, and Pi. In addition to presenting the wearer's current physiological parameters 2902, the dashboard user interface 2900 may present indicators associated with one or more of the physiological parameters 2902 that visually indicate the status of the parameters 2902 and various status ranges for each parameter 2902. The indicators may be color coded or otherwise indicate the degree or status of the physiological parameter 2902. The dashboard user interface 2900 may additionally display historical statistics / information of the wearer, such as workout history information, sleep information, activity level, steps taken, and / or calories burned.

[0313] The dashboard user interface 2900 may additionally display one or more navigation selectors 2904 configured for selection by a user. The one or more navigation selectors 2904 may include a home navigation selector, an activities navigation selector, a workout navigation selector, a vitals navigation selector, a sleep navigation selector, a history navigation selector, a share navigation selector, and / or a settings navigation selector. Selection of a navigation selector 2904 may cause the health application 2804 to display any of the graphical user interfaces described herein associated with the selected navigation selector 2904. The navigation selector 2904 may be displayed in any of the graphical user interfaces described herein.

[0314] Additional Considerations As used herein, terms of degree, such as "approximately," "about," "generally," and "substantially," refer to a value, amount, or characteristic that is close to the stated value, amount, or characteristic yet still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, terms such as "approximately," "about," "generally," and "substantially" can refer to an amount that is within less than 10%, less than 5%, less than 1%, less than 0.1%, and less than 0.01% of the stated amount. As another example, in certain embodiments, terms such as "generally parallel" and "substantially parallel" refer to a value, amount, or characteristic that deviates from exact parallelism by no more than 10 degrees, no more than 5 degrees, no more than 3 degrees, or no more than 1 degree. As another example, in certain embodiments, terms such as "generally perpendicular" and "substantially perpendicular" refer to a value, amount, or characteristic that deviates from exact perpendicular by no more than 10 degrees, no more than 5 degrees, no more than 3 degrees, or no more than 1 degree.

[0315] Many other variations beyond those described herein will be apparent from this disclosure. For example, certain acts, events, or functions of any of the algorithms described herein may be performed in a different order, or may be added, combined, or entirely excluded (e.g., not all described acts or events are necessary to practice the algorithm). Furthermore, acts or events may be performed simultaneously rather than sequentially, for example, through multithreading, interrupt processing, or multiple processing units or processor cores, or in other parallel architectures. Also, different tasks or processes may be performed by different machines and / or computing systems that can function together.

[0316] It should be understood that not all such advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular example of the examples disclosed herein. Thus, the examples disclosed herein may be embodied or practiced in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages taught herein without necessarily achieving other advantages that may be taught or suggested herein.

[0317] The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, and algorithm steps described in connection with the examples disclosed herein can be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of both. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability between hardware and software, the various illustrative components, blocks, modules, and steps are described generally in terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends on the particular application and design constraints imposed on the overall system. The described functionality may be implemented in different ways for each particular application, but such implementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing a departure from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0318] The various illustrative logic blocks and modules described in connection with the examples disclosed herein may be implemented or performed by a machine, such as a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof, designed to perform the functions described herein. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but alternatively, a processor may be a controller, a microcontroller, a state machine, or a combination thereof, etc. A processor may include electrical circuitry or digital logic circuitry configured to process computer-executable instructions. In other examples, a processor may include an FPGA or other program-executable device that performs logical operations without processing computer-executable instructions. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as, for example, a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration. The computing environment may include any type of computer system, including, but not limited to, a microprocessor-based computer system, a mainframe computer, a digital signal processor, a portable computing device, a device controller, or a computational engine within an appliance, to name a few.

[0319] The steps of a method, process, or algorithm described in connection with the examples disclosed herein may be embodied directly in hardware, in a software module stored in one or more memory devices and executed by one or more processors, or in a combination of the two. A software module may reside in RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, a hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, media, or physical computer storage known in the art. An example storage medium may be coupled to a processor such that the processor can read information from, and write information to, the storage medium. In the alternative, the storage medium may be integral to the processor. The storage medium may be volatile or non-volatile. The processor and the storage medium may reside in an ASIC.

[0320] The apparatus and methods described herein can be implemented by one or more computer programs executed by one or more processors. The computer programs include processor-executable instructions stored on a non-transitory, tangible, computer-readable medium. The computer programs may also include stored data. Non-limiting examples of non-transitory, tangible, computer-readable media include non-volatile memory, magnetic storage, and optical storage.

[0321] The term "substantially" when used in conjunction with the term "real time" forms a statement that is readily understood by those skilled in the art, for example, it is readily understood that such a term includes speeds at which little or no delay occurs.

[0322] In particular, conditional language used herein, such as "can," "could," "may," and "for example," is generally intended to convey that certain examples include certain features, elements, and / or conditions, while other examples do not, unless expressly stated otherwise or understood otherwise within the context in which it is used. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, and / or conditions are somehow required in one or more examples, or that one or more examples necessarily include logic for determining whether those features, elements, and / or conditions are included in or implemented in any particular example, with or without author input or prompting. Terms such as "comprising," "including," and "having" are synonymous and used inclusively in an open-ended manner, not excluding additional elements, features, acts, operations, etc. Also, the term "or," for example, when used to connect a list of elements, is used in its inclusive sense (and not its exclusive sense), so that the term "or" refers to one, some, or all of the elements in the list. Furthermore, the term "each," as used herein, in addition to having its ordinary meaning, can refer to any subset of the set of elements to which the term "each" applies.

[0323] Transitional phrases such as the phrase "at least one of X, Y, or Z" are understood in their context as generally used to indicate that an item, term, etc. can be either X, Y, or Z, or any combination thereof (e.g., X, Y, and / or Z), unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, such transitional phrases are not, and should not be, generally intended to suggest that a particular instance requires that at least one of X, at least one of Y, or at least one of Z, respectively, be present.

[0324] Unless expressly stated otherwise, articles such as "a" or "an" should generally be construed to include one or more of the listed items. Thus, phrases such as "a device configured to" are intended to include one or more of the listed devices. Such one or more listed devices may be collectively configured to perform the stated enumeration. For example, "a processor configured to perform enumeration A, B, and C" may include a first processor configured to perform enumeration A working in conjunction with a second processor configured to perform enumeration B and C.

[0325] While the foregoing detailed description has illustrated, described, and pointed out novel features as applied to various examples, it will be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the illustrated devices or algorithms can be made without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. As will be recognized, the invention described herein can be embodied in forms that do not provide all of the features and benefits described herein, since some features can be used or practiced in isolation from other features.

[0326] Furthermore, all publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, and patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. [Explanation of symbols]

[0327] 2 Wrist 10. Wearable Devices 12 Display unit, display screen 13a First User Interface (UI1) 13b Second User Interface (UI1) 14 Device Processing Equipment 15 User feedback output unit 16 batteries 17 Wireless charging coil 19 Antenna 32 Flexible Connector 42 Accelerometer and / or Gyroscope 100, 100C Sensor or module for measuring physiological parameters 102 Temperature Sensor 104 Emitter 106 detector 108 Module sensors, processing devices for sensors or modules 110A, 110B, 110C Wearable Devices 111A, 111B display section 112A, 112B straps 114 Accelerometer 116 PCB boards 123 ECG Flexible Connector 124, 125 electrode 127 Electrically insulating materials 202 Patient Monitoring Device 204 Mobile Communication Devices 206 Computer 208 tablets 210 Nurse Station System 212 Computing Networks 214 Electronic Medical Record System 216 Remote Server with Database 312 Display unit, display screen 320 strain gauge 322 Strap connection 330 Strap 340 Physiological Data Measurement Module, Sensor or Module 341 Light Emitter 342 Gyroscope 343 Thermistor 344 Accelerometer 345 detector 348 Sensor or module processing device 350 Wearable Devices 352 Connector 354, 355 electrode 363 Memory Components 364 Device Processing Equipment 365 Communication Parts 366 Power supply 1080 Computing Device 1082 System Processing Unit 1083 Detector Cathode Switch Matrix 1084 host connector 1088 Front-end analog signal conditioning circuit 1090 Power Management Integrated Circuit (PMIC) 1091 ECG amplifier 1092 Transimpedance Amplifier 1094 low pass filter 1096 high pass filter 1098 Analog-to-Digital Converter 1400 Bluetooth coprocessor 1402 System Processing Unit 2700, 2700´ Sensors or modules for measuring physiological parameters 2702´ Light-transmitting lens or cover 2704a´, 2704b´ emitters 2706, 2706´ detectors 2716, 2716´ board 2720, 2720´ Light barrier structure 2720a, 2720a´, 2720b, 2720b´, 2720c, 2720c´, 2720d, 2720d´ Light barrier 2724, 2724´ electrode 2726, 2726´ Opaque Frame 2736a´ First emitter chamber 2736b´ Second emitter chamber 2737 Pillar 2738´ Third detector room 2739 Conductive liquid adhesive 2740´ First detector room 2742´ Second detector room 2750´ center line 2755´ Spring Contact 2771, 2771´, 2772, 2772´, 2775, 2775´ width 2778, 2778´ emitter chamber 2779, 2779' length 2788, 2788´ Detector Room 2791´ Exterior 2793´ central area height 2795´ outer area height 2800, 2800´ Sensor or Module 2801, 2801´ Device Housing 2802 External Devices 2804 Health Applications 2806A´, 2806B´ Emitter chamber 2807, 2807A, 2807A´, 2807B, 2807B´, 2807C electrode 2808A, 2808B, 2808C, 2808D, 2808E, 2808F receiving part 2809A, 2809B, 2809C, 2809D cover parts 2810, 2810´ Wearable Devices 2811, 2811´, 2813, 2815, 2815´, 2817 axes 2812 Display unit, display screen 2814 Aperture 2818 PCB 2819A, 2819B Partition 2820 Sensor or Module 2821 Circuit Board 2822A, 2822B Light-Transmitting Cover 2823 Surface 2824, 2824´ recess 2825A, 2825B recessed part 2826, 2826´ Frame 2827A, 2827B electrode 2828A, 2828B, 2828C, 2828D, 2828E, 2828F Receiver 2829A, 2829B, 2829C, 2829D cover parts 2830, 2830´ strap 2831 Pillar 2832 Aperture 2833 Shaft 2835 Internal area 2836 frames 2837A outer edge 2838A Inner edge 2839A, 2839B Partition 2840 Sensor or Module 2841 Exterior 2842 Inside 2843A, 2843B through hole 2844A, 2844B, 2844C, 2844D protrusions 2848A, 2848B, 2848C, 2848D Through Hole 2849A, 2849B end part 2851A, 2852A end transition 2853A, 2853B through hole 2857, 2858 Concave transition 2859A End section 2863, 2864, 2865 Part, electrode part 2867B outer edge 2868B Inner edge 2874A, 2874B protrusion 2900 Dashboard User Interface 2902 Physiological parameters 2904 Navigation Selector 2 C1, C´1 center point D1, D2, D4, D5 width g1, g´1, g2, g´2 gaps L1, L´1, L2, L´2 wheels r1, r´1, r2, r´2, r3, r´3 radius θA, θB, θC, θD angles

Claims

1. 1. A wearable device configured to perform physiological measurements, comprising: The frame and an electrode secured to the frame and configured to conduct electrical signals originating from a user of the wearable device, a first portion having a surface configured to contact the skin of the user; a second portion having a surface configured to contact the skin of the user; a third portion disposed between the first portion and the second portion, a surface extending away from the surface of the first portion and the surface of the second portion and separated from the skin of the user when the first portion or the second portion contacts the skin of the user; and a through-hole extending through the electrode and configured to receive at least a portion of the frame, a cover portion of the frame preventing the third portion from contacting the skin of the user; a third portion comprising: an end portion adjacent to the first portion and extending at an angle away from the first portion; an electrode comprising: a substrate in electrical communication with the electrodes and responsive to the electrical signals generated by the user; A wearable device comprising:

2. The wearable device of claim 1 , wherein the end portions are surrounded by the frame.

3. The wearable device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the frame prevents the end portions from contacting the skin of the user.

4. The wearable device of claim 1 , wherein the surface of the end portion does not contact the skin of the user.

5. The wearable device of claim 1 , wherein the end portion is substantially perpendicular to the first portion.

6. 6. The wearable device of claim 1, wherein the end portion includes a through opening extending therethrough, the through opening configured to receive a protrusion on the frame to secure the electrode to the frame.

7. A fourth portion, a surface continuous with the surface of the second portion, the surface extending away from the surface of the second portion and separated from the skin of the user when the second portion contacts the skin of the user; a second through-hole extending through the electrode and configured to receive a conductive material configured to conduct the electrical signal originating from the user to the substrate; The wearable device of claim 1 , further comprising a fourth portion comprising:

8. The wearable device of claim 7 , wherein the second cover portion of the frame prevents the fourth portion from contacting the skin of the user.

9. a fifth portion having a surface contiguous with the surface of the fourth portion and configured to contact the skin of the user; another end portion adjacent to the fifth portion, having a surface continuous with the surface of the fifth portion, and extending at an angle from the fifth portion; The wearable device of claim 1 , further comprising:

10. 10. The wearable device of claim 9, wherein the other end portion includes another through opening extending therethrough, the other through opening configured to receive another protrusion of the frame to secure the electrode to the frame.

11. The wearable device of claim 1 , wherein the first portion is substantially semi-annular.

12. The wearable device of claim 1 , wherein the first portion and the second portion form at least a portion of a semi-ring.

13. The wearable device of claim 1 , wherein the surface of the third portion is continuous with the surface of the first portion and the surface of the second portion.

14. The wearable device of claim 1 , wherein the end portion comprises a surface that is continuous with the surface of the first portion.

15. 15. The wearable device of claim 1, further comprising a hardware processing unit coupled to the substrate and configured to access the electrical signals conducted through the electrodes and to perform one or more electrocardiography techniques on the electrical signals conducted through the electrodes.

Images