Near Field Communication Housing Structure

Abstract

In one embodiment, the device includes: a first housing formed of a first radio wave-transparent material and having an outer peripheral surface including a first outer peripheral portion and a second outer peripheral portion, the outer peripheral surface having one or more recesses, each extending from one of the first outer peripheral portion or the second outer peripheral portion into a body of the first housing; a second housing formed of a second radio wave-transparent material and secured to the first housing; a near field communication (NFC) chip disposed between the first housing and the second housing; and a link having a first end and a second end extending into the body of the first housing.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates generally to devices and methods for near field communication (NFC) housing structures, and in particular embodiments to devices and methods for NFC housing structures that are wearable by a user. [Background technology]

[0002] Radio frequency identification (RFID) technology can be used for multiple purposes. Near field communication (NFC) is a more effective form of RFID. NFC can operate in one-way or two-way communication. In NFC, an initiator (active) device, such as a phone, and a target (passive) device, such as a wearable device, communicate through active and passive NFC chips, respectively. A reader generates an electromagnetic field to power the passive chip. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0003] In one embodiment, the device includes: a first housing formed of a first radio wave transparent material and having an outer circumferential surface including a first outer circumferential portion and a second outer circumferential portion, the outer circumferential surface having one or more recesses, each of the one or more recesses extending from one of the first outer circumferential portion or the second outer circumferential portion into a body of the first housing; a second housing formed of a second radio wave transparent material and secured to the first housing; and a second housing disposed between the first housing and the second housing. The link includes: a near field communication (NFC) chip, the NFC chip being housed by both the first housing and the second housing; and a link having a first end and a second end, the first end extending from the first outer circumferential portion into the body of the first housing toward the second housing, and the second end extending from the second outer circumferential portion into the body of the first housing toward the first outer circumferential portion.

[0004] In one embodiment, the device includes: a first housing formed of a radio wave transparent material and having an outer circumferential surface with a first outer circumferential portion and a second outer circumferential portion, the outer circumferential surface having one or more recesses, each of the one or more recesses extending from the first outer circumferential portion or the second outer circumferential portion into a body of the first housing, the outer circumferential surface having a protrusion at least partially defined by the first outer circumferential portion and the second outer circumferential portion, the one or more recesses being disposed on the protrusion; a second housing formed of a second radio wave transparent material secured to the first housing; and a second housing secured to the first housing. a near field communication (NFC) chip disposed between the protrusion and the second housing, the NFC chip being contained by both the first housing and the second housing; one or more recesses disposed in the protrusion; and a link having a first end and a second end, the first end extending from the first outer periphery into the body of the first housing toward the second housing, and the second end extending from the second outer periphery into the body of the first housing toward the first outer periphery.

[0005] In one embodiment, the method includes the steps of: providing a first housing formed of a first radio wave transparent material having an outer circumferential surface with a first outer circumferential portion and a second outer circumferential portion, the outer circumferential surface having one or more recesses, each of the one or more recesses extending from one of the first outer circumferential portion or the second outer circumferential portion into a body of the first housing; providing a second housing formed of a second radio wave transparent material; and fixing a near field communication (NFC) chip within the second housing; The method includes fixing the second housing within the first housing, wherein the NFC chip is housed by both the first housing and the second housing; and attaching a link having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end extends from the first outer periphery into the body of the first housing toward the second housing, and the second end extends from the second outer periphery into the body of the first housing toward the first outer periphery.

[0006] For a more complete understanding of the present invention, and the advantages thereof, reference is now made to the following descriptions taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figures 1A-1D] 1A-1D show components of an NFC housing structure according to an embodiment. [Figure 2A-2B] 2A-2B show an assembled NFC housing structure according to an embodiment. [Figure 3A-3B] 3A-3B show a first housing and a second housing according to one embodiment. [Figures 4A-4C] 4A-4C show NFC housings having various shapes, according to some embodiments. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating a process for forming an NFC housing. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Exemplary embodiments of the systems and methods of the present disclosure are described below. For purposes of clarity, not all features of an actual implementation may be described herein. It will, of course, be understood that the development of such an actual embodiment will involve many implementation-specific decisions to achieve the particular goals of the developer, including, for example, adhering to system- and business-related constraints that may vary from implementation to implementation. It will further be understood that such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0009] The spatial relationships between various components and the spatial orientation of various sides of components may be referred to herein as the devices are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. However, as will be understood by those skilled in the art after reading this entire disclosure, the devices, members, apparatuses, etc. described herein can be positioned in any desired orientation. Thus, because the devices described herein can be oriented in any desired direction, the use of terms such as "above," "below," "upper," "lower," etc. to describe the spatial relationships between various components or to describe the spatial orientation of sides of such components should be understood to describe the relative relationships between those components or the spatial orientation of the sides of such components.

[0010] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present application relate to an NFC housing structure that can be connected to a substrate via a user-attachable connector.

[0011] Wearable devices with NFC chips can be used for many purposes. For example, NFC wearable devices can be used for credit card payments or healthcare applications. Furthermore, NFC wearable devices can be used to provide connections to content, services, and the like to assist users in completing tasks. For example, NFC wearable devices can be used to provide content such as a reference location related to updates on a user's health status, alerts regarding the user's medication status, or even provide personalized instructions to a user during a health crisis such as a panic attack. As another example, a wheelchair user can use a wearable device to open or unlock doors, start a car, automatically dial a phone call, or access web-based content. In some embodiments, the NFC chip in a wearable device can be an RFID chip with additional memory, processing circuitry, or communications circuitry, and can hold additional information related to the user, such as contact information, medical information, and the like. In some embodiments, the RFID chip can provide tracking of a user through active communication, such as transmitting a location over a cellular or other wireless connection, or passive communication, such as providing a "ping" or response to a message from a communications device or network.

[0012] In operation, when a passive NFC chip comes within range of an active NFC chip, the active chip generates a magnetic field. The passive NFC chip is powered by the active chip and modulates the magnetic field. When designing a wearable device for a user that includes an NFC chip, the NFC chip may be placed in a housing. The housing can provide a protective structure for the NFC chip. The housing can then be connected to a chain, rope, or band to form a wearable device that can be worn by a user. For example, the wearable device can be a bracelet or necklace.

[0013] To create a wearable device that is comfortable for the user, the NFC housing is made as compact as possible.

[0014] Embodiments relate to an NFC housing structure that can be connected to a wearable device via a connector, such as a link, while having sufficiently small dimensions to be comfortable for a user without interference between the connector and the NFC chip. In various embodiments, the NFC housing structure can include a second housing secured within a first housing. The NFC chip can be secured within the second housing and housed by both housings, as described in more detail below.

[0015] The first housing may include an outer circumferential surface that forms a protrusion. The protrusion may be defined, at least in part, by a first outer circumferential portion and a second outer circumferential portion of the outer circumferential surface. The size and shape of the first housing allow one or more recesses to be disposed within the protrusion without penetrating the second housing. The geometry and dimensions of the first housing thus allow one or more recesses to be formed in the protrusion that are small enough for securing the connector. The one or more recesses secure the connector such that it is spaced apart from the NFC chip by a sufficient distance so as not to interfere with the NFC chip. The connector may be a metal connector that improves the mechanical connection to the NFC housing structure. The use of a metal link provides a stronger connection between the first housing and a rope or chain of the user-wearable device. The spacing between the connector and the NFC chip allows for the use of a metal connector because this spacing prevents the metal connector from acting as an antenna for the NFC chip and thus prevents the metal chip from interfering with and weakening the electromagnetic signals transmitted to and from the NFC chip.

[0016] 1A-1D illustrate components of an NFC housing structure according to embodiments: Figure 1A is an isometric view showing a first housing of an NFC housing structure according to some embodiments.

[0017] The first housing 102 may include a first cavity 104 and one or more recesses disposed in the protrusion 106. The first housing 102 may be formed of a first radio wave transparent material and may have a first thickness. The first thickness may be 2.5 to 6 mm, for example, 3 mm.

[0018] The first housing 102 can be made from any suitable radio wave transparent material, such as hardwoods like maple, walnut, etc. In other embodiments, the first housing 102 can be formed from a radio wave transparent resin or synthetic material, such as acrylic, polyethylene, fiberglass composite, glass, sapphire, etc., where the radio wave transparent material or combination of materials has sufficient strength to withstand the machining or molding processes described below. The material of the first housing 102 is not limited to the embodiments of the present disclosure, as other advantageous materials or combinations of materials can also be employed.

[0019] In various embodiments, the first housing 102 may have a rectangular or square cross-sectional shape with its length 116, width 117, and height 114 being approximately equal. The length 116 and width 117 may each be in the range of 10 mm to 50 mm, e.g., 15 mm. The height 114 may be in the range of 1 mm to 3 mm, e.g., 2 mm. In other embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the first housing 102 may be rectangular, circular, "eye," flower, star, etc. The cross-sectional shape of the first housing 102 is not limited to the embodiments of the present disclosure, as other advantageous shapes may also be used. Advantageously, the shape and dimensions of the first housing 102 allow for the formation of one or more recesses in the outer circumferential surface 115 of the first housing 102 for storing, holding, receiving, or securing a connector. The one or more recesses may be formed in a protrusion such that the one or more recesses are spaced a distance from the second housing that secures the NFC chip. The spacing between the one or more recesses and the NFC chip ensures that the connector does not interfere with the NFC chip.

[0020] The first housing 102 may have an outer periphery 115 that surrounds the body of the housing in which the first cavity 104 is located. The first cavity 104 may be square. In other embodiments, the first cavity 104 may be rectangular, rounded, or any other shape. The first cavity 104 may be sized to secure or hold a second housing that holds an NFC chip. The shape of the first cavity 104 may be the same as or different from the cross-sectional shape of the first housing 102.

[0021] FIG. 1B shows an isometric view of a second housing of an NFC housing structure according to some embodiments. In various embodiments, the first cavity 104 may be configured or sized to receive or secure the second housing 120, which holds the NFC chip. The first cavity 104 may be configured so that the second housing 120 fits securely inside it. Furthermore, the wall thickness 107 of the first cavity 104 may be between 1.2 mm and 4.0 mm, e.g., 1.3 mm. However, depending on the type or shape of the material, the minimum wall thickness 107 may be greater. For example, softer materials require a greater minimum wall thickness 107. In embodiments where the first cavity 104 has a square cross-sectional shape, its length 118 and width 119 may be between 5 mm and 45 mm, e.g., 12.5 mm. The depth 112 of the first cavity 104, regardless of its shape, may be between 1 mm and 4.5 mm, e.g., 2 mm.

[0022] The outer circumferential surface 115 of the first housing 102 may include at least two outer circumferential portions 105, 109. Each portion of the outer circumferential surface 115 may correspond to an outer wall of the first housing 102. For example, the first housing 102 in FIG. 1A includes a first outer circumferential portion 105, a second outer circumferential portion 109, a third outer circumferential portion (not shown), and a fourth outer circumferential portion (not shown).

[0023] The outer peripheral surface 115 defines the periphery of the wall of the first housing 102 that surrounds the first cavity 104. The outer peripheral surface 115 forms one or more protrusions that allow one or more recesses to be formed in the first housing 102 that are small enough for securing the connector without penetrating the first cavity 104. The protrusions allow the connector to be secured in the first housing while keeping the link a sufficient distance from the first cavity 104 so that the connector does not interfere with the NFC chip.

[0024] At least one protrusion 106 may be defined by at least one of the outer circumferential portions 105, 109. The protrusion 106 may be an area defined by one or more portions of the outer circumferential surface 115 that provide a region of the body of the first housing 102 spaced from the first cavity 104. The protrusion 106 may be the portion of the first housing 102 furthest from the first cavity 104. In one embodiment, the protrusion 106 may be formed where the outer circumferential portions of the outer circumferential surface 115 intersect (i.e., meet). For example, as shown in FIG. 1A , the protrusion 106 may be formed where the first outer circumferential portion 105 and the second outer circumferential portion 109 meet. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the protrusion 106 may be formed between the second outer circumferential portion and the third outer circumferential portion, the third outer circumferential portion and the fourth outer circumferential portion, and the first outer circumferential portion and the fourth outer circumferential portion. The shape of the protrusion 106 may be defined by the shape of the outer periphery 115. For example, if the outer periphery 115 has corners (e.g., a square or star shape), in some embodiments, the protrusion 106 may comprise one corner of the periphery. In other embodiments where the cross-sectional shape of the periphery is rounded, the protrusion 106 may be rounded.

[0025] One or more recesses 108, 110 may be disposed within the protrusion 106. The one or more recesses 108, 110 may extend from one of the first outer periphery 105 or the second outer periphery 109 into the body of the first housing 102. The one or more recesses 108, 110 may secure a connector that can be used to connect the first housing 102 to a substrate or a carrier, such as a rope or chain for a bracelet or necklace. The one or more recesses 108, 110 may be any suitable shape that allows the connector to be secured to the substrate or carrier. For example, the recesses may be circular, square, triangular, etc.

[0026] In various embodiments, the one or more recesses 108, 110 may include two separate recesses 108, 110. The first recess 108 may extend from the first outer periphery 105 into the body of the first housing 102 toward the second outer periphery 109. The second recess 110 may extend from the second outer periphery 109 into the body of the first housing 102 toward the first outer periphery 105. The first recess 108 and the second recess 110 may each extend to approximately the same depth into the body of the housing. In other embodiments, the one or more recesses 108, 110 may be a single recess, such as a through-hole, extending from the first outer periphery 105 to the second outer periphery 109. One or more recesses may also be formed in a second protrusion (not shown) of the first housing 102 opposite the protrusion 106. This allows the connector to be connected to multiple opposing protrusions, and allows both sides of the first housing 102 to be connected to the wearable device. For example, one or more recesses may also be formed in the protrusion where the third outer peripheral surface and the fourth outer peripheral surface meet.

[0027] In some embodiments, the protrusion 106 provides an area in which one or more recesses can be formed without penetrating the first cavity 104. The protrusion 106 thus provides a sufficient distance between the connector and an NFC chip disposed within the cavity to prevent interference between the connector and the chip, as will be described in more detail below.

[0028] 1B shows second housing 120. Second housing 120 may be formed of a second non-radio wave transparent material having a second thickness. Second housing 120 may be made of any suitable non-radio wave transparent acrylic material known in the art. Second thickness 135 may be between 1 mm and 5 mm, for example, 2 mm.

[0029] The second housing 120 may include a second cavity 122. The second housing 120 may be configured to be secured within the first cavity 104 of the first housing 102. Thus, the periphery of the second housing 120 is the same shape as the first cavity 104. In one embodiment, the second housing 120 may be square. In other embodiments, the second housing 120 may have a rectangular, circular, oval, or any other cross-sectional shape. The dimensions of the second housing 120 may be sized to fit within the first housing. The second housing may be secured to the first housing using an adhesive. The length 136 and width 138 of the second housing may be between 5 mm and 45 mm, for example, 8.4 mm. The second housing 120 may be secured within the first cavity 104 using a suitable attachment structure or system, such as a friction fit, adhesive, latches, or screws.

[0030] A second cavity 122 may be formed within the second housing 120. The second cavity may be configured to receive an NFC chip. The shape of the outer portion of the second cavity 122 may be the same as the cross-sectional shape of the NFC chip. Thus, the second cavity 122 may have a square, circular, oval, or any other cross-sectional shape to match the outer shape of the NFC chip. The length 132 and width 134 of the second cavity 122 may be sized to accommodate the NFC chip, along with the second adhesive used to secure the chip. The length 132 and width 134 may be 3.5 mm to 30 mm, for example, approximately 9 mm. The above dimensions of the second cavity 122 ensure that the wall thickness 137 between the second cavity and the second housing 120 is at least 1.0 mm.

[0031] FIG. 1C illustrates a connector that can be used to couple the NFC housing structure to a user's wearable device. The connector can be a link 140, which can be a magnetic or ferromagnetic material, such as a metal or alloy, or a conductive non-metallic material. In various embodiments, the link 140 can be a bendable metallic material having a first end 142 and a second end 144. For example, the link 140 can be a stainless steel pinch bail-type link. The diameter of the link 140 can be 0.5 mm to 1 mm, e.g., 0.75 mm. The first end 142 and the second end 144 can be bent to form an open or closed shape, as long as the link 140 can couple the NFC housing structure to a user's wearable device via one or more recesses. In some embodiments, the link 140 can be bent so that the first end 142 and the second end 144 do not contact each other. In some embodiments, the link 140 may be bent into a triangular, square, rounded, or another shape that allows for coupling of the first housing 102 to a substrate or carrier. The shape of the link 140 is not limited by the embodiments presented herein, as any shape that allows for attachment to a substrate or carrier can be advantageously employed.

[0032] In various embodiments, the link 140 may be coupled to the first housing 102 by inserting each end into one or more recesses. The first end 142 and the second end 144 may extend from opposing outer periphery portions 105, 109 into the body of the first housing 102. For example, the first end 142 may extend from the first outer periphery portion 105 into the body of the first housing 102 toward the second outer periphery portion 109. The second end 144 may extend from the second outer periphery portion 109 into the body of the first housing 102 toward the first outer periphery portion 105. In other embodiments, the link 140 may be completely closed, or the ends of the link 140 may be connected or touching. In such embodiments, one or more of the recesses 108, 110 may be through-holes extending continuously through the first housing, allowing the link to extend continuously through the through-hole-like recesses.

[0033] FIG. 1D shows a cross-sectional view of the NFC housing structure along plane 101. First housing 102 and second housing 120 can accommodate NFC chip 148. Second housing 120 can be secured to first housing 102 with NFC chip 148 facing downward. NFC chip 148 can be accommodated between first housing 102 and second housing 120. Second housing 120 is thus secured within first housing 102 such that bottom surface 124 is flush with or higher than top edge 103 of the first cavity. Second housing 120 can be secured to first housing 102 using first adhesive 150. The dimensions of second housing 120 can thus be configured to fit within first cavity 104 with additional space for first adhesive 150. In some embodiments, the first adhesive 150 may be or include a liquid adhesive, such as a polyvinyl acetate (PVA) adhesive, a cyanoacrylate (CA) adhesive, an epoxy, or the like. In other embodiments, the first adhesive may be or include another adhesive, such as double-sided tape, a reactive adhesive, or another adhesive suitable for permanently or semi-permanently attaching the second housing 120 to the first housing 102. In other embodiments, the adhesive may be omitted, and the second housing may be attached to or retained within the cavity of the first housing 102 by: a mechanical fastening, such as a friction fit between the first housing 102 and the second housing 120; by a mechanical latching element on the first housing 102 or the second housing 120; by fasteners, such as screws or pins; or by an external retention element, such as a clip or another element that holds the second housing within the cavity.

[0034] Additionally, the walls of the second housing 120 may vertically overlap the walls of the first housing 102 when viewed from the side. For example, the first perimeter portion 126 of the second housing 120 may overlap the first perimeter portion 105 of the first housing 102, the second perimeter portion 128 of the second housing 120 may overlap the second perimeter portion 109 of the first housing 102, etc.

[0035] The shape and dimensions of the first housing 102 and the second housing 120 provide a spacing of at least 1 mm between the second cavity 122 and the wall of the first housing 102. Thus, the spacing between the second cavity 122 and the wall of the first housing 102 results in one or more recesses 108, 110 being formed only on the periphery of the first housing 102. For example, the second recess 110 may extend from the second periphery portion 109 toward the first periphery portion 105 without penetrating into the second housing 120.

[0036] While the first housing 102 and the second housing 120 are each described herein as a single component, it should be understood that the first housing 102 and the second housing 120 are not limited to such implementation. For example, the first housing 102, the second housing 120, or both, may be formed from multiple elements, with the second housing 120 still configured to be at least partially disposed within the first cavity 102. Thus, in some embodiments, the second housing 120 may include an inner second housing that houses an NFC chip and may further have an outer second housing that covers at least a portion of the inner second housing. The inner second housing can be configured to secure NFC chips of various shapes, and the outer second housing can be configured to secure the inner second housing within first cavities of various shapes. In some embodiments, the outer second housing may provide a decorative feature such as color, or may be used to grip or provide an area for removing the second housing 120 for replacement or access to the NFC chip 148. Similarly, the first housing 102 may be formed in multiple pieces, with, for example, an outer first housing providing a protective, decorative, or other feature, and an inner first housing that secures the second housing 102. For example, the outer first housing may include a shock-absorbing material such as a silicone material, while the inner first housing may be a relatively rigid material such as acrylic, polyethylene, or a fiberglass composite, with a connector or link 140 extending into the inner first housing to secure the NFC housing to the substrate.

[0037] 2A-2B illustrate an assembled NFC housing structure according to an embodiment, where FIG. 2A illustrates an isometric view of the assembled NFC housing structure and FIG. 2B illustrates a top view of the assembled NFC housing structure.

[0038] 2A is an isometric view of an assembled NFC housing structure 200. The NFC housing structure 200 may include a second housing 120 secured within the first housing 102. The outer walls of the second housing 120 are entirely bounded by the inner surfaces of the walls defining the first cavity 104. The NFC chip 148 is thus secured between the first housing 102 and the second housing 120. The second housing 120 is secured within the first cavity 104 such that the bottom surface 124 of the second cavity is flush with or higher than the top edge 103 of the first cavity 104. Advantageously, the NFC chip 148 is protected from the environment and is not visible. Link 140 is coupled to NFC housing structure 200 via one or more recesses 108, 110 and is spaced from second cavity 122 by a distance that prevents interference between NFC chip 148 and link 140, as shown in more detail in Figure 2B below.

[0039] 2B shows a top view of the assembled NFC housing structure 200. The second housing 120 is secured to the first housing 102 via a first adhesive 150. Similarly, the NFC chip 148 is secured to the second housing via a second adhesive 152.

[0040] If the distance between the NFC chip 148 and the link 140 used to connect the NFC housing structure 200 to the wearable device is too close, the link 140 may block the electric field generated by the NFC chip 148. This may cause interference between signals exchanged between the passive NFC chip and its corresponding active NFC chip. Therefore, the protrusion 106 separates the link 140 and the NFC chip 148 by a distance 202. The distance 202 may be at least 0.5 mm to 15 mm. For example, the distance 202 may be approximately 1 mm or more. The distance 202 ensures that the link 140 does not interfere with communication with the NFC chip 148.

[0041] 3A-3B show a first housing and a second housing according to an embodiment of the principles presented herein, where FIG. 3A shows an isometric view of a first housing having a cavity with a circular cross-sectional shape, and FIG. 3B shows an isometric view of a second housing having a circular cross-sectional shape.

[0042] The first housing 102 may include a circular first cavity 104. Due to the rounded shape of the first cavity 104, the wall thickness between the edge of the first housing 102 and the first cavity 104 may vary. In various embodiments, the minimum wall thickness 307 between the edge of the first housing 102 and the first cavity 104 may be at least 0.5 mm.

[0043] The diameter 302 of the first cavity 104 can be provided such that the minimum wall thickness 307 is met. In various embodiments, the diameter 302 of the first cavity 104 can be between 10 mm and 30 mm, for example, 12.2 mm. As noted above, although the previous examples show first cavities 104 having square or circular cross-sectional shapes, other shapes such as oval, rectangular, dome-shaped, etc. can also be used.

[0044] In some embodiments, the second housing 120 may also have a circular cross-sectional shape, thereby allowing it to fit securely within the first cavity 104. In various embodiments, the diameter of the second housing 120 may be between 10 mm and 30 mm, for example, about 12.2 or 13 mm. As noted above, although the preceding examples show second housing 120 having a square or circular cross-sectional shape, other shapes, such as oval, rectangular, etc., may be used, so long as the first cavity 104 and second housing 120 are the same shape.

[0045] Additionally, as noted above, while second housing 120 is shown as circular, second cavity 122 may be square with the same dimensions as described above to secure NFC chip 148. Due to the rounded shape of second cavity 122, the wall thickness between the edge of second housing 120 and second cavity 122 may vary. In various embodiments, the minimum wall thickness 337 between the edge of second housing 120 and second cavity 122 may be between 0.1 mm and 20.0 mm, such as 1.3 mm. However, in some embodiments, second cavity 122 may have a corner that intersects or contacts the outer periphery because at least a portion of the wall of second housing 120 may be received by first housing 102 during assembly.

[0046] Although the above example shows the second cavity 122 having a square cross-sectional shape, other shapes such as oval, rectangular, dome-shaped, etc. may be used as long as the second cavity 122 has the same shape as the NFC chip 148.

[0047] 4A-4C show several NFC housings with different shapes according to various embodiments.

[0048] FIG. 4A illustrates an NFC housing structure 402 having a flower-shaped first housing 102. The flower shape of the first housing 102 forms rounded protrusions that provide additional distance between the link 140 and the NFC chip. For example, the rounded protrusions formed by the flower shape can increase the distance between one or more recesses and the second housing 120 compared to the first housing 102 illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 3A. While the flower shape includes six petals, this is for illustrative purposes only, as the flower-shaped first housing 102 can include any sufficient number of petals. The NFC housing structure 402 may have a circular second housing 120. While the NFC housing structure 402 includes a circular second housing 120, this is also for illustrative purposes only. The second housing 120 may have any of the shapes described above.

[0049] FIG. 4B illustrates an NFC housing structure 404 having a star-shaped first housing 102. Advantageously, the star-shaped first housing 102 also has protrusions formed on each edge of the star that provide additional distance between the link 140 and the NFC chip. For example, the edges or apexes of the star-shaped housing can provide a greater distance between one or more recesses and the second housing 120 than the edges of the square first housing 102 of FIGS. 1A and 3A. While a five-pointed star is shown, a star with any number of apexes can be used. Additionally, while a rounded-shaped second housing 120 is shown, the second housing 120 may have any of the shapes described above.

[0050] 4C shows an eye-shaped NFC housing structure 406. As above, the eye can provide rounded protrusions that provide additional distance between the link 140 and the second housing 120.

[0051] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a method for forming an NFC housing according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0052] In block 502, a first housing 102 formed from a first radio wave transparent material can be provided. The first housing 102 can be formed using a CO2 laser, a mill, a drill, or any other machining tool. For example, in some embodiments, the first housing 102 can be cut using a CO2 laser with settings that vary based on the hardness of the material used. For example, the first housing 102 can be cut using a 45 watt CO2 laser at a speed of 180 mm / sec and maximum power in one pass, but this can vary based on the housing material, depth, size, etc.

[0053] The first housing 102 may include a first cavity 104. The first cavity 104 may be formed using a CO2 laser, a mill, a drill, or any other machining tool. For example, the first housing 102 may be manufactured using a CO2 laser with settings that vary based on the hardness or type of material of the first housing 102. For example, the first cavity 104 may be etched using two passes of a 45 watt CO2 laser at a speed of 1000 mm / sec, 270 lines / cm, and maximum power.

[0054] The first housing 102 may include an outer circumferential surface 115 including a first outer circumferential portion 105 and a second outer circumferential portion 109. The outer circumferential surface 115 may have one or more recesses 108, 110. The one or more recesses may extend into the first housing 102 from the first outer circumferential portion 105 or the second outer circumferential portion 109, respectively. The one or more recesses 108, 110 may be manufactured using a CO2 laser, a mill, a drill, or any other machining tool. For example, the one or more recesses may comprise a first recess 108 and a second recess 110. The first recess 108 may extend from the first outer circumferential portion 105 into the first housing 102 toward the second outer circumferential portion 109. The second recess 110 may extend from the second outer circumferential portion 109 into the first housing 102 toward the first outer circumferential portion 105.

[0055] Alternatively, the one or more recesses may comprise a single through hole extending from the first outer periphery portion 105 to the second outer periphery portion 109. The first housing 102 may be constructed of the same materials and formed in the same manner as in Figure 1A above.

[0056] Next, as shown in block 504 and described with reference to FIG. 1B, a second housing 120 may be provided. The second housing 120 may be composed of the same materials and formed in the same manner as described above for FIG. 1B. The second housing 120 may be manufactured using a CO2 laser, mill, drill, casting, molding, or any other suitable machine or process. For example, the second housing 120 may be cut using a single pass of a 45-watt CO2 laser at a speed of 180 mm / s and maximum power. The second housing may include a second cavity 122. The second cavity 122 may be formed using a CO2 laser, mill, drill, casting, molding, or any other machining machine. For example, the second cavity 122 may be etched using two passes of a 45-watt CO2 laser at a speed of 1000 mm / s, 270 lines / cm, and maximum power.

[0057] Next, as shown in block 506 and as described with reference to Figure 1D, the NFC chip 148 may be secured within the second housing 120. The NFC chip 148 may be secured within the second housing 120 using a second adhesive.

[0058] Subsequently, as shown in block 508 and as described with reference to Figures 1D and 2A-2B, the second housing 120 may be secured within the first housing 102 using a first adhesive 150. Both the first housing 102 and the second housing 120 may house an NFC chip 148.

[0059] 1C and 2A-2B, a link 140 having a first end 142 and a second end 144 may be attached to the first housing 102. The first end 142 may extend from the first outer periphery 105 into the body of the first housing toward the second outer periphery 109. The second end 144 may extend from the second outer periphery 109 into the body of the first housing toward the first outer periphery 105. In other words, both ends of the link 140 may be coupled to the first housing 102 via one or more recesses. The link 140 may be formed in the same manner as the link 140 described in FIG. 1C and may be composed of the same materials as the link 140 described in FIG. 1C.

[0060] In embodiments, the NFC housing structure 200 may include a single-piece housing. For example, the NFC housing structure 200 may include a housing with a slit cut into the edge of the housing into which the NFC chip 148 can be inserted. Alternatively, the NFC housing structure 200 may include only the first housing 102, with the NFC chip 148 secured within and exposed within the first housing 102. The NFC housing structure may also include three different housings. The first housing may function as an outer housing, and two inner housings may be secured within the outer housing, which secure the NFC chip 148.

[0061] The first housing 102 is secured to the substrate using an adhesive, although other means can be used. For example, holes can be drilled in the bottom surface 111 of the first housing 102, and mechanical means such as screws or rivets can be used to secure the first housing 102 to the substrate, and then the second housing 120 can be secured within the first housing 102.

[0062] Additionally, although a metallic material is used to connect the NFC housing structure 200 to a user's wearable device, additional means may be used. For example, a non-metallic, strong, and flexible material, such as plastic, may be used as the link 140.

[0063] In one embodiment, the device includes: a first housing formed of a first radio wave transparent material and having an outer circumferential surface including a first outer circumferential portion and a second outer circumferential portion, the outer circumferential surface having one or more recesses, each of the one or more recesses extending from one of the first outer circumferential portion or the second outer circumferential portion into a body of the first housing; a second housing formed of a second radio wave transparent material and secured to the first housing; and a second housing disposed between the first housing and the second housing. The link includes: a near field communication (NFC) chip, the NFC chip being housed by both the first housing and the second housing; and a link having a first end and a second end, the first end extending from the first outer circumferential portion into the body of the first housing toward the second housing, and the second end extending from the second outer circumferential portion into the body of the first housing toward the first outer circumferential portion.

[0064] In some embodiments, the link is formed from a metal material. In some embodiments, the outer circumferential surface has a protrusion at least partially defined by the first outer circumferential portion and the second outer circumferential portion, and the one or more recesses are disposed on the protrusion. In some embodiments, the link and the NFC chip are spaced apart by a distance of at least 1 mm. In some embodiments, the one or more recesses include a first recess extending from the first outer circumferential portion into the main body of the first housing toward the second outer circumferential portion and a second recess extending from the second outer circumferential portion into the main body of the first housing toward the first outer circumferential portion. In some embodiments, the one or more recesses are a single recess that is a through hole extending from the first outer circumferential portion to the second outer circumferential portion. In some embodiments, the first radio wave transparent material is wood, and the second radio wave transparent material is an acrylic material. In some embodiments, the bottom surface of the second housing is flush with or higher than the top edge of the first housing.

[0065] In one embodiment, the device includes: a first housing formed of a radio wave transparent material and having an outer peripheral surface with a first outer peripheral portion and a second outer peripheral portion, the outer peripheral surface having one or more recesses, each of the one or more recesses extending from the first outer peripheral portion or the second outer peripheral portion into a body of the housing, the outer peripheral surface having a protrusion at least partially defined by the first outer peripheral portion and the second outer peripheral portion, the one or more recesses being disposed on the protrusion; a second housing formed of a second radio wave transparent material secured to the first housing; a near field communication (NFC) chip disposed between the protrusion and the second housing, the NFC chip being contained by both the first housing and the second housing; one or more recesses disposed on the protrusion; and a link having a first end and a second end, the first end extending from the first outer periphery into the body of the first housing toward the second housing, and the second end extending from the second outer periphery into the body of the housing toward the first outer periphery.

[0066] In some embodiments, the link is formed from a metal material. In some embodiments, the link and the NFC chip are spaced apart by a distance of at least 1 mm. In some embodiments, the one or more recesses include a first recess extending from the first outer periphery into the body of the first housing toward the second outer periphery and a second recess extending from the second outer periphery into the body of the first housing toward the first outer periphery. In some embodiments, the one or more recesses are a single recess that is a through-hole extending from the first outer periphery to the second outer periphery. In some embodiments, a bottom surface of the second housing is flush with or higher than a top edge of the first housing.

[0067] In one embodiment, the method includes the steps of: providing a first housing formed of a first radio wave transparent material having an outer circumferential surface with a first outer circumferential portion and a second outer circumferential portion, the outer circumferential surface having one or more recesses, each of the one or more recesses extending from one of the first outer circumferential portion or the second outer circumferential portion into a body of the first housing; providing a second housing formed of a second radio wave transparent material; and fixing a near field communication (NFC) chip within the second housing; The method includes fixing the second housing within the first housing, wherein the NFC chip is housed by both the first housing and the second housing; and attaching a link having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end extends from the first outer periphery into the body of the first housing toward the second housing, and the second end extends from the second outer periphery into the body of the first housing toward the first outer periphery.

[0068] In some embodiments, the link and the NFC chip are spaced apart by a distance greater than 1 mm. In some embodiments, the outer circumferential surface has a protrusion defined at least in part by the first outer circumferential portion and the second outer circumferential portion, and the one or more recesses are disposed on the protrusion. In some embodiments, forming one or more recesses includes forming a single recess, the single recess being a through-hole extending from the first outer circumferential portion to the second outer circumferential portion. In some embodiments, the one or more recesses are a single recess that is a through-hole extending from the first outer circumferential portion to the second outer circumferential portion. In some embodiments, the one or more recesses include a first recess extending from the first outer circumferential portion into the body of the first housing toward the second outer circumferential portion and a second recess extending from the second outer circumferential portion into the body of the first housing toward the first outer circumferential portion.

[0069] Illustrative embodiments of the present invention are summarized herein, and other embodiments are apparent from the entire specification and the appended claims.

Claims

1. a first housing formed of a first radio wave transparent material and having an outer circumferential surface with a first outer circumferential portion and a second outer circumferential portion, the outer circumferential surface having one or more recesses, each of the one or more recesses extending from one of the first outer circumferential portion or the second outer circumferential portion into a body of the first housing; a second housing formed of a second radio wave transparent material and secured to the first housing; a near field communication (NFC) chip disposed between the first housing and the second housing, the NFC chip being contained by both the first housing and the second housing; a link having a first end and a second end, the first end extending from the first outer periphery into the body of the first housing toward the second housing, and the second end extending from the second outer periphery into the body of the first housing toward the first outer periphery; A device comprising:

2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the link is formed from a metallic material.

3. The device of claim 1 , wherein the outer periphery comprises a protrusion defined at least in part by the first outer periphery portion and the second outer periphery portion, and the one or more recesses are disposed on the protrusion.

4. The device of claim 1 , wherein the link and the NFC chip are separated by a distance of at least 1 mm.

5. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the one or more recesses include a first recess extending from the first outer periphery portion into the body of the first housing toward the second outer periphery portion and a second recess extending from the second outer periphery portion into the body of the first housing toward the first outer periphery portion.

6. The device of claim 1 , wherein the one or more recesses is a single recess that is a through hole extending from the first outer periphery portion to the second outer periphery portion.

7. The device of claim 1 , wherein the first radio wave transparent material is wood and the second radio wave transparent material is an acrylic material.

8. The device of claim 1 , wherein a bottom surface of the second housing is flush with or higher than a top edge of the first housing.

9. a first housing formed of a radio wave transparent material and having an outer peripheral surface with a first outer peripheral portion and a second outer peripheral portion, the outer peripheral surface having one or more recesses, the one or more recesses extending from the first outer peripheral portion or the second outer peripheral portion, respectively, into a body of the first housing, the outer peripheral surface having a protrusion at least partially defined by the first outer peripheral portion and the second outer peripheral portion, the one or more recesses being disposed on the protrusion; a second housing formed of a second radio wave transparent material secured to the first housing; a near field communication (NFC) chip disposed between the first housing and the second housing, the NFC chip being contained by both the first housing and the second housing; one or more recesses disposed in the protrusion; a link having a first end and a second end, the first end extending from the first outer periphery into the body of the first housing toward the second housing, and the second end extending from the second outer periphery into the body of the housing toward the first outer periphery; A device comprising:

10. The device of claim 9 , wherein the link is formed from a metallic material.

11. 10. The device of claim 9, wherein the link and the NFC chip are separated by a distance of at least 1 mm.

12. 10. The device of claim 9, wherein the one or more recesses include a first recess extending from the first outer periphery portion into the body of the first housing toward the second outer periphery portion and a second recess extending from the second outer periphery portion into the body of the first housing toward the first outer periphery portion.

13. The device of claim 9 , wherein the one or more recesses is a single recess that is a through hole extending from the first outer periphery portion to the second outer periphery portion.

14. 10. The device of claim 9, wherein a bottom surface of the second housing is flush with or higher than a top edge of the first housing.

15. providing a first housing formed of a first radio wave transparent material having an outer circumferential surface with a first outer circumferential portion and a second outer circumferential portion, the outer circumferential surface having one or more recesses, each of the one or more recesses extending from one of the first outer circumferential portion or the second outer circumferential portion into a body of the first housing; providing a second housing formed of a second radio wave transparent material; Fixing a near field communication (NFC) chip within the second housing; securing the second housing within the first housing, the NFC chip being contained by both the first housing and the second housing; attaching a link having a first end and a second end, the first end extending from the first outer periphery into the body of the first housing toward the second housing, and the second end extending from the second outer periphery into the body of the first housing toward the first outer periphery; A method comprising:

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the link and the NFC chip are separated by a distance greater than 1 mm.

17. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the outer periphery comprises a protrusion defined at least in part by the first outer periphery portion and the second outer periphery portion, and the one or more recesses are disposed on the protrusion.

18. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein forming the one or more recesses comprises forming one recess, the one recess being a through hole extending from the first outer periphery portion to the second outer periphery portion.

19. The method of claim 15 , wherein the one or more recesses is a single recess that is a through hole extending from the first outer periphery portion to the second outer periphery portion.

20. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the one or more recesses include a first recess extending from the first outer periphery portion into the body of the first housing toward the second outer periphery portion and a second recess extending from the second outer periphery portion into the body of the first housing toward the first outer periphery portion.

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