Wearable device

Abstract

The wearable device has a flexible and extensible body configured to surround a portion of a user's body, an electronic module having a concave space between two ends, each end attachable to the flexible and extensible body using a flexible retention mount, allowing rotation of the flexible and extensible body relative to the electronic module and transmitting tension from the flexible and extensible body to the electronic module, and a bio-signal sensor disposed on the flexible and extensible body, contacting at least a portion of the user's body and receiving a bio-signal from the user.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 943,845, filed on December 5, 2019, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] This disclosure relates to wearable devices. More specifically, this disclosure relates to wearable devices that include an electroencephalogram (EEG) sensing component and can be worn on a user's head.

Background Art

[0003] A user can interact with a computing device, for example, using a keyboard, a mouse, a trackpad, a touch screen, or a motion capture device. As the ways in which humans interact with computing devices change, the computer can become available for new purposes or can become more efficient in performing existing tasks. User commands for a computing device that may require several commands on a keyboard can instead be associated with thoughts or gestures that are captured and processed by a sensory input device. Since the human body has many parts that can be controlled through spontaneous movement, there is an opportunity to capture and interpret other movements for interacting with a computing device.

[0004] Biological signals are signals generated by a living organism that can be measured and monitored. Electroencephalographs, galvanometers, and electrocardiographs are examples of devices used to measure and monitor biological signals generated by humans.

[0005] The human brain generates bio-signals such as electrical patterns that can be measured / monitored using electroencephalograms ("EEG"). These electrical patterns, or electroencephalograms, can be measured by devices such as EEG. Usually, EEG measures electroencephalograms in analog form. These electroencephalograms can then be analyzed either in their original analog form or in digital form after conversion from analog to digital.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] Measuring and analyzing bio-signals such as electroencephalogram patterns can have various practical applications. For example, a brain-computer interface ("BCI") has been developed that enables a user to control devices and computers using electroencephalogram signals. In another example, analysis of electroencephalogram patterns during sleep can enable a user to understand their sleep patterns and / or improve the quality of their sleep.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] According to one aspect, a wearable device includes a flexible and stretchable body configured to surround a portion of a user, and an electronic module having a surface that defines a concave space between a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The first end is attachable to the flexible and stretchable body at a first connection point using a first flexible retention mount, enabling rotation of the flexible and stretchable body about a first axis with respect to the electronic module, and transmitting tension from the flexible and stretchable body to the electronic module radially from the first axis. The second end is attachable to the flexible and stretchable body at a second connection point using a second flexible retention mount, enabling rotation of the flexible and stretchable body about a second axis with respect to the electronic device, and transmitting tension from the flexible and stretchable body to the electronic module radially from the second axis. A biosignal sensor is disposed on the flexible and stretchable body between the first connection point and the second connection point, contacts at least a portion of a portion of the user, and receives a biosignal from the user. When the flexible and stretchable body extends to be worn by the user with the electronic module attached, tension is applied from the flexible and stretchable body to the electronic module via the first flexible retention mount and the second flexible retention mount, pulling the electronic module toward the user, and a portion of the flexible and stretchable body between the first connection point and the second connection point rotates toward the concave space, causing the electronic module to press the biosignal sensor on the flexible and stretchable body against a portion of the user. A wearable device comprising the biosignal sensor is provided.

[0008] In some embodiments, the biosignal sensor is configured to contact at least a portion of the frontal region of the user's head.

[0009] In some embodiments, the biosignal sensor is an electroencephalogram (EEG) sensor.

[0010] In some embodiments, the biosignal sensor is an electrode for measuring and generating an electric potential.

[0011] In some embodiments, the wearable device further comprises an additional biosignal sensor for contacting at least a part of the auricular region of the user's head.

[0012] In some embodiments, the additional biosignal sensor is an electroencephalogram (EEG) sensor.

[0013] In some embodiments, the wearable device further comprises an electrical connection between the electronic module and the flexible and extensible body.

[0014] In some embodiments, the wearable device further comprises an electrical connection between the electronic module and the biosignal sensor.

[0015] In some embodiments, the electronic module is curved to generally correspond to the user's head.

[0016] In some embodiments, the electronic module is attachable to the flexible and extensible body by magnetic force.

[0017] In some embodiments, the electronic module includes a first magnet at a first end for attachment to a first flexible retaining mount by magnetic force and a second magnet at a second end for attachment to a second flexible retaining mount by magnetic force.

[0018] In some embodiments, the wearable device further comprises an additional biosignal sensor disposed on the electronic module.

[0019] In some embodiments, the additional biosignal sensor is an optical sensor.

[0020] In some embodiments, the optical sensor is mounted on a flexible protrusion relative to the electronic module, and the flexible protrusion is for compressing when the electronic module is drawn towards the user's body.

[0021] In some embodiments, the optical sensor is for detecting compression of the body based at least in part on the detected reflection distance of the light reflected by the optical sensor.

[0022] In some embodiments, the optical sensor detects additional biosignals based at least in part on the detected reflection distance of the light reflected by the optical sensor.

[0023] In some embodiments, the optical sensor detects additional biosignals based at least in part on the measured color and intensity of the light reflected by the optical sensor.

[0024] In some embodiments, the flexible and extensible body comprises a compressible region adjacent to the biosignal sensor for compressing at least one biosignal sensor to conform to the user's body.

[0025] In some embodiments, the compressible region is shaped to conform to at least a part of the user's body.

[0026] In some embodiments, the compressible region comprises a foam having a variable density.

[0027] In some embodiments, the wearable device further comprises a light emitter.

[0028] In some embodiments, the wearable device further comprises a photoreceiver.

[0029] In some embodiments, the photoreceiver is disposed on a flexible and extensible body adjacent to the user's eye to detect light adjacent to the user's eye.

[0030] In some embodiments, the wearable device further comprises a vibration transducer.

[0031] In some embodiments, the vibration transducer is a speaker.

[0032] In some embodiments, the vibration transducer generates a physical vibration.

[0033] In some embodiments, the vibration transducer is a microphone.

[0034] In some embodiments, the vibration transducer is disposed on a flexible and extensible body so as to be adjacent to the user's ear.

[0035] In some embodiments, the vibration transducer is disposed on a flexible and extensible body so as to be adjacent to the front of the user's head.

[0036] In some embodiments, the vibration transducer is disposed on a flexible and extensible body so as to be adjacent to the user's bone.

[0037] In some embodiments, the wearable device further comprises a plurality of vibration transducers for beamforming.

[0038] In some embodiments, the plurality of vibration transducers is an array of microphones for localizing sound from a certain direction.

[0039] In some embodiments, the wearable device further comprises an accelerometer for detecting the user's movement.

[0040] In some embodiments, the wearable device further comprises a thermistor for detecting temperature.

[0041] In some embodiments, the thermistor is configured to detect a relative temperature change.

[0042] In some embodiments, the wearable device further comprises a communication device for transmitting data to a computing device.

[0043] In some embodiments, the communication device communicates with the computing device over a Bluetooth communication protocol.

[0044] In some embodiments, the communication device communicates with the computing device over a Wi-Fi communication protocol.

[0045] According to another aspect, a wearable device, comprising: a flexible and extensible body for surrounding a portion of a user; an electronic module having a surface defining a concave space, the electronic module being attachable at a first connection point by a first flexible retaining mount for rotation about a first axis and at a second connection point by a second flexible retaining mount for rotation about a second axis to the flexible and extensible body, and generating a radial force from the first axis and the second axis to pull the electronic module towards a portion of the user; a biometric signal sensor disposed on the flexible and extensible body between the first connection point and the second connection point, and contacting at least a portion of a portion of the user to receive a biometric signal from the user; wherein when the flexible and extensible body extends to be worn by the user with the electronic module attached, a portion of the flexible and extensible body between the first connection point and the second connection point, for example, the portion where the biometric signal sensor is disposed, rotates towards the concave space, and the force pulls the electronic module and presses the biometric signal sensor on the flexible and extensible body against a portion of the user.

[0046] Other features will become apparent from the drawings in conjunction with the following description.

[0047] In this regard, before explaining any of the embodiments described in this specification in detail, it is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited, in its application, to the details of construction and to the arrangement of the components described in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The present disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. It is also to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0048] Next, the embodiments are described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings.

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0049] As used herein, the terms "downward" or "inward" generally refer to the direction towards the user's skin. Similarly, "lower" indicates another component disposed downward with respect to a certain component. In contrast, "upward", "upper", or "outward" generally refers to a direction opposite to the "downward" or "lower" component.

[0050] A biosignal is a signal generated by a living organism that can be measured and monitored. Electroencephalographs, galvanometers, and electrocardiographs are examples of devices used to measure and monitor biosignals generated by humans. Since the human body has many parts that can be controlled through voluntary movement, there is an opportunity to capture and interpret movement for interacting with a computing device.

[0051] The human brain generates biosignals such as electrical patterns that can be measured / monitored using electroencephalograms ("EEG"). These electrical patterns, or brainwaves, are measurable by devices such as EEGs. Usually, an EEG measures brainwaves in analog form. These brainwaves can then be analyzed either in their original analog form or in digital form after conversion from analog to digital.

[0052] Measuring and analyzing biosignals such as brain wave patterns can have various practical applications. For example, a brain computer interface ("BCI") has been developed that enables a user to control devices and computers using brain wave signals. In another example, analysis of brain wave patterns during sleep can enable a user to understand their sleep pattern and / or improve the quality of their sleep.

[0053] To obtain biosignal data, it may be desirable for a sensor to be in close or constant contact with the user or a body part of the user. Thus, it may be desirable to provide a comfortable wearable device, particularly when the device is worn for long periods such as overnight in a sleep monitoring situation or during periods of high activity or movement.

[0054] In one aspect, a computer system implemented by one or more computing devices is provided. The computing devices can include one or more client or server computers that communicate with each other via a short-range, local, wireless, wired, or wide area computer network such as the Internet, and at least one of the computers is configured to receive signals from a sensor worn by a user.

[0055] In one embodiment, the sensor includes one or more biosignal sensors such as an electroencephalogram (EEG) sensor, an electromyogram (EMG) sensor, an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) sensor, a galvanometer sensor, a cardiograph sensor, a heart rate sensor such as a photoplethysmograph (PPG), a gaze tracking sensor, a blood pressure sensor, a respiration sensor, a pedometer, a gyroscope, and any other type of sensor. The sensors can be of various types, including an electrical biosignal sensor that is in electrical contact with the user's skin, an electrostatic biosignal sensor that is in electrostatic contact with the user's skin, a blood flow sensor that measures the characteristics of the user's blood flow, and a wireless communication sensor that is disposed subcutaneously under the user's skin. Other sensor types are possible, including but not limited to a temperature sensor, a motion sensor such as an accelerometer or a gyroscope, a sound sensor such as a microphone for recording ambient noise and / or other noise, and a vibration sensor.

[0056] The sensor can be connected to a wearable device, which can be a wearable computing device or a wearable sensing device such as a wearable headset or a headband computer worn by the user. The sensor can be connected to the headset either wired or wirelessly. The headset can further communicate with another computing device, such as a laptop, a tablet, or a mobile phone, so that data sensed by the headset through the sensor can be communicated to the other computing device for processing on the computing device or on one or more computer servers, or as an input to another computing device or as an input to another computing device. The one or more computer servers can include software as a local, remote, cloud-based, or software as a service (SAAS) server.

[0057] Embodiments of the system may provide for the collection, analysis, and association of specific biometric and non-biometric signal data for both individual users and user groups. The data collected, the data analyzed, or the functions of the system and methods may be shared with others such as third-party applications and other users. The connections between any of the computing devices, internal sensors (including within wearable devices), external sensors (including outside of wearable devices), user effectors, and any servers may be encrypted. The data collected and analyzed may be used to build a user profile that is unique to the user. The user profile data may be analyzed either individually or as a whole, for example, by a machine learning process, to determine whether it can function as a BCI or to improve the algorithms used in the analysis. Optionally, the data, the analyzed results, and the functions associated with the system can be shared with third-party applications and other organizations via an API. One or more user effectors may also be provided in a wearable device or other local computing device to provide feedback to the user, for example, to vibrate to assist the user in achieving a particular mental state such as a meditative state or to provide some audible or visual display.

[0058] The wearable device may include a camera, a display, and biometric signal measurement means for sampling the user's environment and the user's biometric signals, and may determine the user's state and context via sensors and user input. The wearable device may include at least one user-facing camera for tracking eye movement and / or facial expression. In one aspect, the wearable device may be in a form similar to glasses that can be worn on the user's face. Optionally, at least one camera may be oriented to generally coincide with the user's field of view. Embodiments may also include a sound listener that may be integrated with or separate from the wearable device.

[0059] In another aspect, the wearable device can be in the form of at least one sensor adapted to be placed or attached to the user's head or face. Each sensor can communicate with each other, optionally either wired or wirelessly. Each sensor can communicate with a controller device, optionally either wired or wirelessly. The controller device can be attached to the wearable device so as to be present on or near the user's head or face. Alternatively, the controller device can be located at other locations on the user's body, such as in a bag or pocket of the user's clothing. The controller device can also be placed somewhere outside the user's body. For example, the sensor monitors the user, stores data in local storage attached to the wearable device, and when in contact with the controller device, the transmitter of the sensor or the wearable device can transmit the stored data to the controller device for processing. In this embodiment, the wearable device can be mainly used by the user when located near the controller device.

[0060] The wearable device can include a camera, a display, and a biosignal measurement means. At least one of the biosignal measurement means can use at least one sensor to measure brain activity. Brain activity can be measured electrically by electroencephalogram (''EEG'') technology or by functional near-infrared spectroscopy (''fNIR'') technology that measures relative changes in hemoglobin concentration using near-infrared attenuation. Sensors using pulse oximetry technology can also be used in the wearable device. Optionally, the wearable device can include at least one sensor that measures eye activity using electrooculogram recording (''EOG'') technology. Other sensors that track other types of eye movements can also be used.

[0061] In various embodiments, the wearable device may include a variety of other sensors and input means. For example, the wearable device may include at least one audio transducer such as a single microphone, a microphone array, a speaker, and headphones. The wearable device may comprise at least one inertial sensor for measuring the movement of the wearable device. The wearable device may include at least one touch sensor for receiving touch input from a user.

[0062] The wearable device may be configured to receive user input through the user's touch or body movement using an accelerometer or via an EEG sensor (e.g., worn near the ear). The wearable device may be configured to receive user input from a slide touch input along a capacitor. The wearable device may be configured to receive user input (e.g., movement or blink) from the user's eye commands using a sensor configured to track the user's eye movement. The wearable device may be configured to receive user input from changes in muscle tension by measuring changes in device tension or EEG signals. The wearable device may be able to receive input from the user's auditory commands using one microphone or an array of microphones. The wearable device may be configured to receive user input from another wirelessly connected device such as a mobile computing device that receives touch or voice input, examples of which include handheld computing devices, desktop or laptop computers, home automation devices, devices such as Google Home or Alexa-compatible speakers, wearable devices such as list watch form factors, rings, and the like. The wearable device may be configured to receive user input from a remote controller that communicates with the device using light, sound, or radio frequency.

[0063] A wearable device can sample both the user's environment and biometric signals simultaneously or substantially simultaneously to generate sampled data. The sampled data can be analyzed by the wearable device in real time or at a predetermined future time when not worn by the user.

[0064] A wearable device can include an adaptable user input detection method that improves over time with use. If a user attempts to command the wearable device and the wearable device responds in an unexpected way, the user can indicate that the response of the wearable device was incorrect and attempt to correct the previous input by retrying the initial command. Over time, the wearable device can improve its understanding of a particular user input that has been corrected. Some user inputs may be easier to measure accurately than others. It may be preferable to assign high-precision inputs for commanding the wearable device that the previous input was incorrect. For example, tapping the wearable device at a particular spot can indicate that the previous input response was incorrect. Explicit training such as voice recognition can also be used to configure and command the wearable device.

[0065] Optionally, the wearable device itself may provide only a biosensor and a processor for processing measurements from the sensor. The wearable device may communicate these measurements or data derived from processing the measurements to one or more second devices, such as glasses with an embedded video camera. It should be understood that in any of the embodiments, implementations, or applications discussed herein, some actions may be performed by a plurality of interconnected devices or by only one of the wearable devices disclosed herein. For example, the wearable device may not include a display. In such an example, the wearable device may communicate visual information to the user through the use of a second device, such as glasses having an embedded video camera that includes a display.

[0066] Sensors that can be used with the wearable device can be of various shapes and made of various materials. For example, the sensor can be composed of a conductive material that includes a conductive composite such as rubber or a conductive metal. The sensor can also be made of a metal plating or coating material such as stainless steel, silver chloride, and other materials.

[0067] In addition to, or instead of, processing biometric signal measurements on a wearable device, the wearable device may communicate with one or more computing devices to distribute, enhance, or offload the processing of biometric signal measurements obtained or received by the wearable device. Specifically, the one or more computing devices may maintain, or have access to, one or more databases that maintain biometric signal processing data, instructions, algorithms, associations, or any other information that may be used or utilized in the processing of biometric signal measurements obtained by the wearable device. The computing devices may include one or more client or server computers that communicate with each other via a short-range, local, wireless, wired, or wide-area computer network such as the Internet, and at least one of the computers may be configured to receive signals from sensors of the wearable device.

[0068] A wearable device can further communicate with another computing device, such as a laptop, tablet, or mobile phone, so that data sensed by a headset through a sensor can be communicated to the computing device, or for processing on one or more computer servers, or as an input to another computing device, or as an input to another computing device. One or more computer servers may include software as a local, remote, cloud-based, or service platform (SAAS) server. Embodiments of the system may provide for the collection, analysis, and association of specific biometric and non-biometric signal data for both individual users and user groups. The collected data, analyzed data, or functions of the system and method may be shared with others such as third-party applications and other users. Connections between any of the computing device, internal sensors (included within the wearable device), external sensors (included outside the wearable device), user effectors (components used to trigger a user response), and any servers may be encrypted. The collected and analyzed data may be used to build a user profile that is unique to the user. The user profile data may be analyzed either individually or as a whole by, for example, machine learning algorithms, to function as a BCI or to improve the algorithms used in the analysis. Optionally, the data, analyzed results, and functions associated with the system can be shared with third-party applications and other organizations via an API. One or more user effectors may also be provided in the wearable device or other local computing device to provide feedback to the user, for example, to vibrate to assist the user in achieving a specific mental state such as a meditative state, or to provide some audio or visual display. In one example, a light emitter may be close to the user's eye and may provide feedback to the user through visual stimuli such as the color, frequency, intensity of the light.

[0069] Cloud-based implementations for processing and analyzing sensor data can provide one or more advantages including openness, flexibility, and scalability, centralized management, reliability, scalability, optimization for computing resources, the ability to aggregate information across a number of users, and the ability to connect across a number of users and find matching subgroups of interest. Embodiments and implementations may be described in specific non-limiting examples regarding the use of the cloud for implementing aspects of a system platform, but local servers, single remote servers, SAAS platforms, or any other computing device may be used in place of the cloud.

[0070] In one embodiment of the system, a multimodal EEG data collection and adaptive signal processing system (MED-CASP system) may be provided to enable single or multi-user mobile electroencephalogram applications. This system platform may be implemented as a hardware and software solution consisting of an EEG headset such as the wearable devices disclosed herein, a client-side application, and a cloud service component. The client-side application may operate on a mobile or desktop computing device. The system may provide an estimate of hemispheric asymmetry and thus may facilitate the measurement of emotional valence (e.g., positive emotion vs. negative emotion), and may provide a better signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) for global measurements and thus an improvement in access to the high-beta and gamma bands, which may be particularly important for the analysis of cognitive tasks such as memory, learning, and perception. Also, the gamma band has been found to be an important neural correlate of meditation expertise.

[0071] In the same or another non-limiting, exemplary embodiment, possible MED-CASP system features can include uploading electroencephalogram (EEG) and associated sensor and application state data from a mobile application to the cloud, downloading EEG and associated data from the cloud, real-time brain state classification to enable BCI in a game or other application, transmitting real-time brain state data to other users while playing a game to enable multi-user games, sharing EEG data with other users to enable asynchronous comparison of results, sharing EEG data with other organizations or third-party applications and systems, and supporting a cloud-based user profile for storing personalized information, settings, and pipeline parameters adjusted to optimize a particular user experience. In this way, the use of the system platform can be device-independent.

[0072] Whenever the analysis or processing of user biometric signal data (e.g., EEG data) is performed, an instance of a software aspect implementing an analysis function, initiated either on a device or in the cloud, may be generated by a wearable device to analyze the user's private biometric signal data using specific analysis or processing parameters applied during the analysis or processing. For the sake of brevity, such an instance may be referred to as an algorithm "pipeline". Each instance of the pipeline may have an associated pipeline identifier ("ID"). Each pipeline may be associated with a specific activity type, user, specific user's biometric signal type, application, or any other system platform-related data. Each pipeline may maintain specific pipeline parameters determined to analyze the user's biometric signal data in a specific way, whether it matches the previous analysis of a specific user's biometric signal data, matches the previous analysis of one or more other users' biometric signal data, or matches updated data in a cloud server obtained from new or updated scientific research related to the analysis of biometric signal data. The pipeline and / or pipeline parameters may be stored on a client computing device or in the cloud for future use. When a new pipeline is created for a user, the wearable device or the cloud may provide a new algorithm pipeline ID associated with the new pipeline on the cloud and the device.

[0073] Since each person's brainwaves are different, slightly different tuning is required for each user. Each person's brain can also learn over time, and the system platform needs to change algorithm parameters over time to continue analyzing that person's brainwaves. The new parameters can be calculated based on the collected data and can form part of a user's dynamic profile (which can be called a biosignal interaction profile). This profile can be stored in the cloud, enabling each user to maintain a single profile across multiple computing devices. Other features of the same or another non-limiting exemplary embodiment include improving the algorithm through machine learning applied to any of the collected data on the client device or on the server, and enabling a machine learning algorithm to optimize the method of converting a user's brainwaves into usable control signals, saving EEG data along with the application state, sharing brainwave data with other applications on a mobile device via a cloud service web interface, sharing brainwave data with other applications running on the client device or on other devices within a trusted network to provide the user's brainwave data and control or execute other devices, integrating data from other devices, and synchronizing events with brainwaves to assist context-aware analysis, as well as memory and future analysis, performing time-locked stimuli and analysis to support stimulus-synchronized event-related potential ("ERP") analysis, and prioritizing data to maximize the amount of useful information obtainable from an incomplete data download (i.e., data is transmitted in order of information salience), may be included. The core functionality of the MED-CASP system can be wrapped as externally usable libraries and APIs so that another developer can use the functionality of the platform in the developer's application. The libraries can be static libraries and APIs for Unity3D, iOS, Android, OSX, Windows, or any other operating system platform.The system platform may also be configured to use pre-compiled algorithms supplied by third parties within the library, including the ability of third-party developers using the library to use their own algorithms along with the library. The system platform may also support sharing of uncurated data (optionally using time-limited and fidelity-limited access) despite headset from various vendors, personal data security by encryption, and sharing of encryption keys.

[0074] Referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B, in aspects of the present disclosure, the wearable device 100 includes a front portion (e.g., the forehead contact portion 12), a rear portion (e.g., the occipital contact portion 16), and at least one side portion, e.g., a right side portion and a left side portion, (e.g., the two ear contact portions 14) that extends between the front and rear portions and contacts at least a portion of the auricular region of the user 10's head. The wearable device 100 may include one or more biosignal sensors 20, such as electrodes, that can communicate and transmit within the wearable device 100 to provide internal connections, and the biosignal sensors 20 may be connected to one or more electronic modules 32.

[0075] FIG. 1B illustrates a side view of a user 10 wearing the wearable device 100 according to one embodiment. The forehead contact portion 12, the two ear contact portions 14, and the occipital contact portion 16 are connected to form a body 111 as a flexible band shaped generally to correspond to the user 10's head.

[0076] As described herein, it will be understood that the wearable device 100 can be worn on various parts or a part of the user's body, including but not limited to, the user's arm or wrist, the user's leg or ankle, and the user's chest or torso, to measure, for example, heart and respiratory data, as well as other data including temperature and temperature changes.

[0077] The body 111 is capable of expanding and contracting in length or diameter. By adjusting the length or diameter of the wearable device 100, it can be configured to be wearable on many different body parts. Further, the modular nature of the various components of the wearable device 100 may, in various embodiments, enable certain components such as the electronic module 32 to be used with various other devices or form factors.

[0078] The flexible and extensible body 111 can expand in length or size to become longer or larger. The body can, in some embodiments, have an extensible portion. For example, the body can have a stretchable portion and a non-stretchable portion, and the stretchable portion can expand the body. The body can include, for example, fabric and elastic portions for expanding in length or size. The flexible and extensible body can adapt to different shapes and sizes of the user and can be bent or altered to surround different parts of the user.

[0079] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 does not need to be directly fixed to the user's body. For example, the wearable device 100 can be attached to the user's equipment, such as being attached to a helmet used for a bicycle or skiing while monitoring signals such as an EKG.

[0080] The body 111 can form a loop configuration as shown, for example, in FIGS. 1A and 1B and can have specific regions of stretch and non-stretch. For example, the body 111 can be made of stretchable material or a combination of stretchable and non-stretchable materials.

[0081] When worn, the body 111 can be shaped such that the forehead contact portion 12 contacts the user's forehead, the two ear contact portions 14 contact the upper parts of the user's ears, and the occipital contact portion 16 contacts the bottom of the user's occipital bone. At least one biosignal sensor 20 can be located on the inward side of the loop of the body 111 for receiving biosignals from the user.

[0082] The body 111 may include a fabric, a textile, or a cloth, and an elastic portion. In some embodiments, some or all portions of the body 111 are elastic or on an elastic substrate, while other portions or regions are relatively inelastic or rigid. The body 111 may be formed from a soft deformable cloth 121, such as a woven fabric, a knit, or a non-woven fabric. The cloth 121 may be formed from a cloth that is, for example, cotton, synthetic fiber, or any other suitable cloth. In one example, the cloth 121 may be formed from 88% rayon, 9% nylon, and 3% spandex. In some embodiments, the cloth 121 of the body 111 may be machine washable.

[0083] The body 111 may also include one or more reinforcing members 131 at various locations, for example, to provide structural support to the wearable device 100. The reinforcing member 131 may include, in an example, a compressible foam covered by the cloth 121, as shown by way of example in FIGS. 10B and 10C, which may conform to the shape of the user 10's head or other body part. In some embodiments, the compressible foam may be formed from an open-cell foam, such as a suitable open-cell foam material. In some embodiments, the compressible foam may be formed from a closed-cell foam, such as neoprene. The compressible foam may be compressible such that when the wearable device 100 is fixed to the user 10's head, the compressible foam conforms to the user 10's head. In use, the compressible foam may be compressed and conform to the user 10's head by the fixing of the body 111 for sizing and fixing the wearable device 100 to the user 10.

[0084] The portion of the body 111 can be formed from a foam shaped to a specific shape of the user's head or other body part. For example, the circumference of the body 111 may taper to correspond to the shape of the head. The foam used in the body 111 can be shaped, for example, thermoformed, to be shaped to a specific shape of the user's head. More generally, a compressible material such as the foam used in the body 111 can be thermoformed to the shape of a typical head and is not necessarily specific to an individual user. In some embodiments, the compressible foam or foam can be shaped to conform the biosignal sensor 20 to an area of the user 10's body and prevent the sensor, such as in the user's ear, from moving, thereby improving the contact of the biosignal sensor with the user's body and thus improving the biosignals received by the biosignal sensor.

[0085] In some embodiments, the compressible foam or foam can be 3D printed to conform to a specific shape.

[0086] In some embodiments, the upper part of the body 111 does not include foam or other compressible and / or reinforcing materials, and the lower part can include a foam that can be reinforced and, conveniently, provides some flexibility to more comfortably adjust the body 111 around the user's ear.

[0087] In some embodiments, the side or ear contact portion 14 of the wearable device 100 can have a foam sewn along the bottom to provide structure and stability, but the upper part of the body (e.g., the upper one-third) does not have a foam structure, which provides a certain degree of elasticity (the material is slightly elastic, but the foam part does not stretch sufficiently due to the foam) for bending the arm up and down over the ear to ensure proper contact at the upper part.

[0088] For example, in one example, other reinforcing materials such as a lining can be used to provide rigidity, inelasticity, and / or non-flexibility to a specific area of the body 111 where components such as the biosignal sensor 20 can be attached.

[0089] In some embodiments, for example, to shield the conductive wire between the biosignal sensor 20 and the electronic module 32, a shield can be incorporated into the fabric of the body 111.

[0090] In some embodiments, the layering of the wearable device 100 can include, within the layer, a memory foam, a thermal adhesive tape, a stretchable material, a conductive thread, a flexible printed circuit board, and other suitable structural elements.

[0091] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 incorporates a flexible electrode that contacts the skin for use as the biosignal sensor 20. The electronic module 32 can optionally be configured to be removable from the body 111 or can be permanently fixed to the body 111 in the manufacturing process.

[0092] The flexible electrode can be manufactured for incorporation within the material of the body 111. The flexible electrode can be manufactured from a particular stacking of materials (referred to as a "stack-up") that enables the sensor portion to detect a biosignal from the user and transmit that signal to a processing center of the wearable device, such as the electronic module 32.

[0093] FIG. 1C illustrates an example of a stack-up that can be used to form a flexible electrode, such as the biosignal sensor 20 of the wearable device 100. The stack-up can include a foam base 112, a first adhesive layer 114, a fabric layer 116, a second adhesive layer 118, a polyurethane layer 124, and a conductive polymer layer 126. To block sensing in regions where it is not desirable to receive biosignals, the conductive polymer layer 126 can optionally be blocked by a dielectric coating 128. The conductive polymer layer 126 is configured to contact a rivet 132. The rivet 132 can conduct a signal from the conductive polymer layer 126 to an electrical connection 136 via a flexible printed circuit board 134. The electrical connection 136 can transmit the signal to the electronic module 32.

[0094] The conductive polymer layer 126 can be a polymer composition containing silver and / or carbon (e.g., PE874 and PE671 by Dupont). The conductive polymer layer 126 can be applied on both sides of the polyurethane layer 124 and can have different compositions depending on the side. For example, the skin-exposed side of the conductive polymer layer 126 can be provided with a silver-filled material having a carbon-filled material below for adhering to the polyurethane layer 124 and configured to touch the user's skin. The side opposite to the skin-exposed side can be provided with a carbon layer capable of providing a shield or some other electrical function. The upper part of the conductive polymer layer 126 can be characterized by a PEDOT surface coating to improve conductivity with the user's skin.

[0095] The polyurethane layer 124 can comprise a thin flexible thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), or other suitable polymer or rubber. The first and second adhesive layers 114 and 118 can comprise a heat-activated adhesive that can be activated during a heat press process. The rivet 132 can extend through all the layers of the stack-up as shown in FIG. 1C. In some embodiments, the electrical connection 136 and the electronic module 32 can be permanently fixed to the body 111 during manufacturing. The dielectric coating 128 can comprise a PE773 encapsulating insulator.

[0096] FIG. 1D illustrates an example of an alternative stack-up that can be used to form a flexible electrode such as the biosignal sensor 20. The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1D can include the same or similar elements as the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1C, except that instead of the rivet 132, there is a conductive adhesive 138 for conducting signals from the conductive polymer layer 126 to the flexible printed circuit board 134. Any embodiment of the stack-up that conducts signals through the rivet 132 can alternatively use the conductive adhesive 138 or some other suitable conductive connection (e.g., crimping).

[0097] Figure 1E illustrates a modified stackup that can be used to form a flexible electrode such as the biosignal sensor 20. The embodiment illustrated in Figure 1E can include elements that are the same or similar to those illustrated in Figure 1D, except that it lacks the foam layer 112 and the first adhesive layer 114 that connects the foam layer 112 to the fabric layer 116. A stackup as shown in Figure 1E can be used in embodiments that do not utilize foam within the body 111. The omission of the foam layer 112 can improve comfort by reducing the thickness or stiffness of the stackup, such as when the electrode fits over the ear. The flexible electrode may be bent to increase the contact area with the skin, and the exclusion of the foam in the bent region or around it can allow for greater conformity in the deformed region.

[0098] Figure 1F illustrates an example of a stackup that can be used to form a flexible electrode such as the biosignal sensor 20. The embodiment shown in Figure 1F can include elements that are the same or similar to those illustrated in Figure 1E, except that it lacks the flexible printed circuit board 134 and optionally lacks the dielectric coating 128. In these stackups, the rivet 132 (or, optionally, a conductive adhesive or a pressure-sensitive adhesive) conducts the signal from the conductive polymer layer 124 directly to the electrical connection 136. Embodiments that do not utilize the flexible printed circuit board 134 can be suitable for wearable devices 100 where the rivet 132 does not need to be spatially separated from the electrical connection 136. The omission of the flexible printed circuit board 134 can provide the advantage of reducing the size of the overall assembly or improving comfort and reliability due to minimized connections and material changes.

[0099] FIG. 1G illustrates an example of a stack-up that can be used to form a flexible electrode such as the biosignal sensor 20. The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1G can include elements that are the same as or similar to those illustrated in FIG. 1F, except that it lacks the second adhesive layer 118 that connects the polyurethane layer 124 to the fabric layer 116. In these embodiments, the polyurethane layer 124 can be molded onto the fabric layer 116 during the manufacturing process. This can eliminate the need for an adhesive layer between the polyurethane 124 and the fabric layer 116. Such embodiments can eliminate the need for some adhesives in the manufacturing process.

[0100] FIG. 1H illustrates an example of a stack-up that can be used to form a flexible electrode such as the biosignal sensor 20. The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1H can include elements that are the same as or similar to those illustrated in FIG. 1G, except that the conductive polymer layer 126 does not extend to the rivet 132 (or optionally a conductive adhesive or crimping agent), and the polyurethane layer 124 is replaced by a conductive rubber layer 142. The conductive rubber layer 142 can be, for example, carbon-filled TPU. The conductive rubber layer 142 can optionally be molded onto the fabric layer 116 during the manufacturing process, thereby eliminating the need for an adhesive layer to bond the conductive rubber layer 142 to the fabric layer 116. In these embodiments, the conductive rubber layer 142 conducts signals to the rivet 132 (or optionally a conductive adhesive or crimping agent). Such embodiments provide an alternative means for transmitting signals from the sensor to the processing unit.

[0101] FIG. 1I illustrates an example of a stack-up that can be used to form a flexible electrode such as the biosignal sensor 20. The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1I can include elements that are the same as or similar to those illustrated in FIG. 1H, except that the rivet 132 is replaced by a conductive adhesive 138. Embodiments of the stack-up that conduct signals through the rivet 132 can alternatively use a conductive adhesive 138 or other suitable conductive connection (e.g., crimping).

[0102] FIG. 1J illustrates an example of a stack-up that can be used to form a flexible electrode such as the biosignal sensor 20. FIG. 1J shows a conductive fabric 148 fixed to a conductive rubber layer 142. The conductive rubber layer 142 can be fixed to the conductive polymer layer 126. The conductive polymer layer 126 can comprise a PEDOT coating (e.g., Techticoat by Heraeus). The conductive adhesive 138 connects the conductive fabric 148 to the electrical connection portion 136. The electrical connection portion 136 is connected to the electronic module 32. A biosignal from a user can conduct from the conductive polymer layer 126 to the conductive rubber layer 142 and the conductive fabric layer 148. The conductive fabric layer 148 can conduct a signal to the electrical connection portion 136 via the conductive adhesive 138. The electronic module 32 can receive a signal from the electrical connection portion 136. In some embodiments, the conductive adhesive 138 can be replaced with a conductive pressure adhesive. Embodiments such as these provide yet another means of conducting a signal from the sensor through the body 111 to the electronic module 32.

[0103] FIG. 1K illustrates an example of a stack-up that can be used to form a flexible electrode such as the biosignal sensor 20. The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1K can include the same or similar elements as the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1J, except that the conductive fabric 148 is adhered to the conductive rubber 142 using a second adhesive layer 118. Embodiments such as these provide yet another means of conducting a signal from the sensor through the body 111 to the electronic module 32.

[0104] FIG. 1L illustrates an example of a stack-up that can be used to form a flexible electrode such as the biosignal sensor 20. The conductive fabric 148 has a PEDOT coating 152 applied to the fibers woven into the fabric. The conductive adhesive 138 connects the PEDOT coating 152 of the conductive fabric 148 to the electrical connection portion 136. The electrical connection portion 136 transmits any received signal to the electronic module 32. Embodiments such as these provide yet another means of conducting signals from the sensor through the body 111 to the electronic module 32.

[0105] The stack-up as illustrated in FIGS. 1C - 1L shows how electrodes can be fabricated into the wearable device 100. Such a stack-up can provide a flexible electrode such as the biosignal sensor 20 that can be comfortable for the user to wear for long periods or during times when comfort is important. The stack-up can be implemented in the wearable device 100 alone or in conjunction with other sensor implementations.

[0106] Returning to FIG. 1A, in some embodiments, the frontal contact portion 12 and the occipital contact portion 16 of the body 111 are arcuate and are connected by the two ear contact portions 14. In some embodiments, the two arcuate portions are connected at each of the two ear contact portions such that they are not straight and an angle is formed between them. In some embodiments, the angle is from about 90° to about 180°, from about 135° to about 180°, from about 155° to about 170°. In some embodiments, the angle is an oblique angle with the apex located close to the ear. The flexion by the ear contact portion 14 may reduce the deformation of the wearable device 100 during wearing and / or improve the stability during wearing, enabling the computing device to fit well on the head. Further, the flexion by the ear may follow the curvature of the ear and increase the electrical contact area of the biosignal sensor 20 located over the user's ear.

[0107] In some embodiments, the body 111 can be formed as a single integral part, and thus the wearable device 100 generally forms a loop shape.

[0108] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 may include an attachment mechanism, such as a buckle or connector, for the safe wearable device 100 for the user 10.

[0109] The wearable device 100 can be sized and secured to the user 10, for example, using a cinch strap and secured, for example, by a hook-and-loop fastener (Velcro (trademark)), a snap mechanism, a buckle such as a center post buckle, a magnet, etc. The attachment mechanism can be secured to the wearable device via a stretchable or non-stretchable material. Using a non-stretchable material may improve comfort and ease of fitting and create a consistent tension within the wearable device. FIGS. 1M-1V do not fully illustrate various exemplary embodiments of the attachment mechanism of the wearable device 100. In these figures, the attachment mechanism may be attached to the wearable device 100 via a stretchable material that protrudes into the wearable device to reduce fluctuations in tension along the length of the wearable device. This can improve comfort and ease of use by reducing the need for precise adjustment to the user's size.

[0110] FIG. 1M illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a fastener 19 using a button attachment mechanism for the wearable device 100. A button, such as a protrusion 191, can be received by any slot of a plurality of openings 193. Each opening 193 may define a generally circular opening. The size of the main body 111 can be determined by the slot to which the protrusion 191 is coupled.

[0111] FIG. 1N illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a fastener 19 using a hook attachment mechanism for the wearable device 100. A hook, such as a protrusion 191, can be received by any slot of a plurality of openings 193. Each opening 193 may define a generally rectangular opening. The size of the main body 111 can be determined by the slot to which the protrusion 191 is coupled.

[0112] FIG. 1O illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a fastener 19 that uses a button attachment mechanism for the wearable device 100. A button such as a protrusion 191 is received by an opening 193 to couple the ends of the main body 111 together. The opening 193 may define a generally elongated elliptical opening.

[0113] FIG. 1P illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a fastener 19 that uses a button attachment mechanism for the wearable device 100. A button such as a protrusion 191 can be received by any one of a plurality of slots such as an opening 193. The opening 193 may be generally elongated and define a ribbed elliptical opening. The size of the main body 111 can be determined by the slot to which the button 191 is coupled.

[0114] FIG. 1Q illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a fastener 19 that uses a surface fastener such as Velcro (trademark). The size of the main body 111 can be determined by the coupling position of the first portion 197A and the second portion 197B. The first portion 191 can be either a hook component or a loop component of Velcro (trademark), and the second portion 193 is the corresponding loop component or hook component, respectively.

[0115] FIG. 1R illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a fastener 19 that uses a dual-belt slide button attachment mechanism. The electronic module 32 can be fixed to the loop 195. Both ends of the main body 111 include a protrusion 191 and a plurality of slots such as an opening 193. The main body 111 is configured to extend through the hook 195. The protrusion 191 can be coupled to a slot of a plurality of openings 193 on the end of the main body 111 that is the same as the protrusion 191.

[0116] FIG. 1S illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a fastener 19 using a slide button attachment mechanism. One end of the main body 111 is provided with a button such as a protrusion 191, and such a plurality of slots have an opening 193. The other end of the main body 111 is provided with a hook 195. The end of the main body 111 having the button 191 is configured to extend through the hook 195. The protrusion 191 can be coupled to a slot within a plurality of slots such as the opening 193. The sizing of the main body 111 can be determined by a specific slot to which the protrusion 191 couples.

[0117] FIG. 1T illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a fastener 19 using a slide button attachment mechanism. One end of the main body 111 is provided with a button such as a protrusion 191. The other end of the main body 111 is provided with a plurality of slots such as an opening 193 and a hook 195. The end of the main body 111 having the protrusion 191 is configured to extend through the hook 195. The button 191 can be coupled to the slots of the plurality of openings 193. The sizing of the main body 111 can be determined by a specific slot to which the button 191 couples.

[0118] FIG. 1U illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the fastener 19. The adjuster 17 can adjust the length of the main body 111 when the fastener 19 is fastened.

[0119] FIG. 1V illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the fastener 19. The adjuster 17 can adjust the length of the main body 111 when the fastener 19 is fastened.

[0120] FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of a wearable device 100 according to an embodiment. FIG. 2B illustrates a top view of the wearable device 100 of FIG. 2A, FIG. 2C illustrates a front view of the wearable device 100 of FIG. 2A, FIG. 2D illustrates a bottom view of the wearable device 100 of FIG. 2A, FIG. 2E illustrates a rear view of the wearable device 100 of FIG. 2A, FIG. 2F illustrates a bottom perspective view of the wearable device 100 of FIG. 2A, FIG. 2G illustrates a top perspective view of the wearable device 100 of FIG. 2A, FIG. 2H illustrates a rear bottom perspective view of the wearable device 100 of FIG. 2A, FIG. 2I is a perspective view of the adjuster and fastener of the wearable device 100 of FIG. 2A, and FIG. 2J illustrates a perspective view of the wearable device 100 of FIG. 2A when worn by a user 10.

[0121] As shown in FIGS. 2A-2J, in one embodiment, the wearable device 100 includes a body 111 in which an electronic module 32 is disposed. The biosignal sensor 20 is disposed on the back of the body 111 and is configured to contact, for example, the forehead of the user 10, and is disposed at the bottom of the body 111 and is configured to contact at least a part of, for example, the auricular region of the user's head, such as the user 10's ear or mastoid bone region. The wearable device may also include an adjuster 17, such as a D-ring or a slide buckle as shown in FIG. 2I, for adjusting the length of the wearable device 100 to fit the user, such as the user's head or chest, and a fastener 19, such as a snap as shown in FIG. 2I, that includes a pair of polarized magnets that are magnetically attracted to each other to secure the wearable device 100 and generally form a loop.

[0122] Referring to FIG. 2A, in some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can include a flexible and extensible body 111 configured to surround a body part of the user 10. The electronic module 32 can have a surface 33A that defines a concave space 35 between a first end 33A and a second end 33B opposite the first end 33A. The first end 33A can be attachable to the body 111 using a first retaining mount 3202 at, for example, a first connection point 34A, allowing rotation of the body 111 relative to the electronic module 32 about a first axis such as a first axis A-A, and transmitting a force such as a tensile or tension force from the body 111 to the electronic module 32 radially from the first axis. The second end 33B can be attachable to the body 111 using a second retaining mount 3204 at, for example, a second connection point 34B, allowing rotation of the body 111 relative to the electronic module 32 about a second axis such as a second axis B-B, and transmitting a force such as a tensile or tension force from the body 111 to the electronic module 32 radially from the second axis.

[0123] One or more biosignal sensors 20 are disposed on the body 111 between the first connection point 34A and the second connection point 34B to contact at least a part of the body of the user 10 and receive biosignals from the user 10. When the body 111 is extended to be worn by the user 10 with the electronic module 32 attached, a force such as a tension force, a holding force, or other suitable force is applied from the body 111 to the electronic module 32 and acts on the electronic module 32 via the first retaining mount 3204 and / or the second retaining mount 3202, pulling the electronic module 32 towards the body of the user 10, causing a portion of the body 111 between the first connection point 34A and the second connection point 34B to rotate towards the concave space, and the electronic module 32 presses the biosignal sensor 20 on the body 111 against the body of the user 10.

[0124] In some embodiments, a force such as a holding force generated by the electronic module 32 and the body acts on the body 111 to press the biosignal sensor 20 on the body 111 against the body of the user 10.

[0125] In some embodiments, pulling the electronic module 32 towards the body of the user 10 creates a tension within the body 111 between the first connection point 34A and the second connection point 34B.

[0126] In some embodiments, the holding force is capable of pressing the biosignal sensor 20 against various user body curvatures. The first holding mount 3202 and the second holding mount 3204 can hold the electronic module 32 against the body 111 while maintaining the holding force within the forehead region of the wearable device 100 in a manner that is comfortable for users with different body curvatures.

[0127] In some embodiments, the rigidity provided by the reinforcing material within the body 111 can result in a force that separates the body 111 and the electronic module 32 such that the body 111 is pressed against the body of the user 10 and then the biosignal sensor 20 is pressed against the body of the user 10.

[0128] In some embodiments, a compressible material, such as a foam, is disposed between the body 111 and the electronic module 32, for example, in some or all of the concave space 35. Such a foam can exert a spring force between the body 111 and the electronic module 32 upon compression (the displacement of the compressible material when the compressible material is compressed).

[0129] Various characteristics of the body 111 can be modified to press the biosignal sensor 20 against the body of the user 10.

[0130] Referring to FIG. 2J, in some embodiments, the biosignal sensor 20 is configured to contact at least a portion of the frontal region of the front of the user 10. In some embodiments, the biosignal sensor 20 is an electroencephalogram (EEG) sensor.

[0131] In some embodiments, the biosignal sensor 20 is an electrode as disclosed herein for measuring a potential and generating a potential, for example, for transcranial stimulation and electrodermal response.

[0132] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can also include an electrical connection portion 3212 between the electronic module 32 and the main body 111.

[0133] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can also include an electrical connection portion between the electronic module 32 and the biosignal sensor 20.

[0134] In some embodiments, the electronic module 32 is curved so as to generally correspond to the head of the user 10.

[0135] In some embodiments, the flexible main body 111 can include a compressible area adjacent to the biosignal sensor 20 for compressing at least one biosignal sensor 20 to conform to the body of the user 10.

[0136] In some embodiments, the compressible area is shaped to conform to at least a part of the user's body.

[0137] In some embodiments, the compressible area comprises a foam having a variable density.

[0138] In some embodiments, the flexible main body 111 comprises a reinforcing area, such as a lining, adjacent to the biosignal sensor 20.

[0139] In some embodiments, the electronic module 32 can be permanently fixed to the body 111. In some embodiments, the electronic module 32 is detachable or otherwise removable from the body 111. In some embodiments, the electronic module 32 can be removed to enable cleaning of the body 111. In some embodiments, the electronic module 32 can be swapped between bodies 111 and still provide similar functionality. For example, a user can remove the electronic module 32 from one variant of the body 111 and couple the electronic module 32 to another variant of the body 111. The user can remove the electronic module 32 so that sensing technology within the module can function at another part of the body, such as measuring blood flow with a fingertip or tracking movement of a hand, hip, chest, or other body part.

[0140] FIG. 2K illustrates one embodiment of a bowstring design between the electronic module 32 and the body 111. The electronic module 32 can be attached to retaining mounts 3202 and 3204. The retaining mounts 3202 and 3204 can each be attached to the body 111 at connection points 34A and 34B, respectively. The connection point 34A is configured to deform between the body 111 and the retaining mount 3202 to conform to the body shape of the user 10. The connection point 34B is configured to deform between the body 111 and the retaining mount 3204 to conform to the body shape of the user 10. The flexibility of the connection points 34A and 34B can enable the body 111 to rotate relative to the electronic module 32, which can enable a more comfortable fit. The flexibility of the connection points 34A and 34B can allow the electronic module 32 to slide along the length of the body, thereby having flexibility to increase or decrease the length of the body 111 between points 34A and 34B.

[0141] Figure 2L illustrates one embodiment of the bowstring design between the electronic module 32 and the main body 111. In this embodiment, the electronic module 32 can be directly coupled to the main body 111 at the connection point 34B, eliminating the need for the holding mount 3204. Such an asymmetric design can be useful for conforming to a particular body part of the user 10 or for a particular design of the electronic module 32. In this embodiment, the connection point 34B is configured to deform between the electronic module 32 and the main body 111 to conform to the body of the user 10. In a similar design, instead of the holding mount 3204, the holding mount 3202 can be eliminated. Such a design can have higher conformity or higher ease of use. Body parts with high curvature such as the wrist or ankle, or the head of a baby, can benefit from this improvement in conformity. The electronic module 32 makes an electrical connection to the main body 111 via the connection point 34A and the holding mount 3202, which can be coupled at the connection point 34B using means that provide greater flexibility, such as magnetic force, hooks and loops such as Velcro (trademark), which is part of the main body 111, fabric, or an elastomeric holding configuration.

[0142] Figure 2M illustrates one embodiment of the bowstring design between the electronic module 32 and the main body 111. In this embodiment, the electronic module 32 can be directly coupled to the main body 111 at the connection points 34A and 34B, removing the need for the holding mounts 3202 and 3204. Such a design can be used to reduce the number of components that make up the wearable device 100.

[0143] Figure 2N illustrates one embodiment of the bowstring design between the electronic module 32 and the main body 111. Figure 2N illustrates an alternative design of the electronic module 32 other than Figure 2M. The electronic module 32 can have a more linear design that includes sharp corners. The wearable device 100 can still conform the curved body part of the user 10 within the concave space 35.

[0144] In FIGS. 2K - 2N, connection points 34A and 34B are positioned on the body 111 at a distance F - F apart such that when the electronic module 32 is received by the body 111 (either directly on connection point 34A or 34B, or via retaining mounts 3202 or 3204), a tension is created in the portion (F - F) of the body 111 between the connection points 34A and 34B. This tension can position the body 111 adjacent to the user's body and maintain the concave space 35 when worn with a minimal body curvature (the body 111 does not deform). Thereby, sensors on the body 111 between connection points 34A and 34B can be enabled to maintain sufficient contact with the user to receive signals. The tension deforms under pressure, enters the concave space 35 up to a maximum distance of D, and can conform the curvature along line C - C. Thereby, the device becomes more comfortable when worn on a body part with a high curvature, and sensors on the body 111 between connection points 34A and 34B can still be enabled to maintain sufficient contact with the user to receive signals.

[0145] Contact with the biosignal sensor may be affected by barriers such as hair. Hair forms a physical barrier and can lift the biosignal sensor away from the user's skin, especially when the hair is dense enough to form tangles. Thus, the biosignal sensor 20 can be disposed on the device such that when worn, the sensor is located on the head in an area with little hair. Thus, in some embodiments, at least one biosignal sensor 20 is located on the forehead contact portion 12, on one or both of the two ear contact portions 14, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, at least one biosignal sensor 20 includes biosignal sensors located on each of the ear contact portions. The biosignal sensor 20 can be disposed at a fixed position on the body 111. In some embodiments, the biosignal sensor 20 can be incorporated into an opening or track defined by the body 111 that allows lateral movement of the biosignal sensor 20 along the body 111.

[0146] As shown in FIG. 2J, in particular, the biosignal sensor 20 can be configured to contact at least a part of the auricle region of the user's head, for example, the ear or the mastoid bone region of the user 10. When the user 10 wears the wearable device 100, the foam within the wearable device 100 can allow for a downward bend over the user's ear of the main body 111, and thus, the biosignal sensor 20.

[0147] Accordingly, the biosignal sensor 20 can contact the top of the user 10's ear and can be configured similarly on the opposite side. Advantageously, these sensors can have sufficient flexibility to be generally comfortable in a sleep position while maintaining contact with the ear at the contact point. The length of such a biosignal sensor 20 can be adapted to ears of various sizes and shapes, as well as to the movement of the wearable device 100 relative to the user's ear during movement or use.

[0148] The biosignal sensor 20 can be various types of electrophysiological sensors, including an electrical biosignal sensor in electrical contact with the user's skin, an electrostatic biosignal sensor in electrostatic contact with the user's skin, and a blood flow sensor for measuring characteristics of the user's blood flow.

[0149] The location of the biosignal sensor 20 on the main body 111 can be reinforced, for example, by a reinforcing member 131 to reduce flexibility or elasticity and increase the rigidity of the location on the main body 111 where the biosignal sensor 20 is disposed. In some embodiments, the main body 111 location can be reinforced by using a lining to reduce stretching of the fabric 121 of the main body 111.

[0150] In one example, the forehead contact portion 12 can be reinforced to structurally support the biosignal sensor 20, while each ear contact portion 14 of the main body 111 can maintain elasticity.

[0151] In some embodiments, the biosignal sensor 20 may be formed from materials including conductive ink, precious metal plating such as silver or gold plating, conductive rubber such as heat-treated conductive rubber, conductive fabric (e.g., silver ink on fabric or woven conductive fibers), conductive fabric laminates, PEDOT-impregnated foams, and silver-coated vinyl with or without conductive carbon (e.g., forming a conductive carbon layer), flexible printed circuit boards (“FPCB” or “PCB”). Other suitable conductive materials may also be used. In some embodiments, the conductive layer in a stack separated by a dielectric can provide shielding for the signals from the biosignal sensor 20. For example, a TPU layer between a conductive polymer ink layer and a conductive fabric layer

[0152] The biosignal sensor 20 can be incorporated into the main body 111 in a configuration that allows the main body 111 to bend and be breathable. For example, a vinyl or plastic substrate with silver ink thereon can be cut into a pattern such as a repeating shape (e.g., repeating square or hexagon) and applied to the main body 111. FIGS. 13E - 13F illustrate various configurations of biosignal sensors on the main body of a wearable device, such as using silver contacts and ear electrodes, as will be described in more detail below, according to various embodiments.

[0153] The main body 111 can also be reinforced in the area where the biosignal sensor 20 is attached, and may be less flexible and more rigid, whereby the biosignal sensor 20 can be less likely to move around the adjacent part of the user's body, such as the user's forehead or ear, during use.

[0154] Referring now to FIGS. 8 and 9, in some embodiments, the main body 111 or a portion thereof includes a substrate 40. FIG. 8 is a schematic top view of a biosignal sensor incorporated into a fabric substrate according to one embodiment. FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the biosignal sensor incorporated into the fabric substrate of FIG. 8 along line I - I.

[0155] In some embodiments, substrate 40 is a woven or non-woven substrate. In some embodiments, substrate 40 is an elastic material such as elastic fabric. The elastic material can exhibit elastic deformation after being stretched to a length of at least about 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%, 125%, or 150% of its non-stretched length. In the non-stretched state, the loop may be slightly smaller than the circumference of the user's head. Once worn, the loop extends to a state of being stretched around the user's head. In some embodiments, the loop is extended by about 1% to about 50%, about 5% to about 25%, or about 5% to about 10% between the non-stretched state and the stretched state. The tension and resulting elastic force exerted on the user's head due to the extension of the loop tend to maintain the device in a predetermined position on the user's head.

[0156] The user may have personal preferences regarding the tension level to maintain the device in a predetermined position on the head. Thus, in some embodiments, the loop includes a tension adjuster. In some embodiments, the tension adjuster includes a buckle, such as a slide buckle near the back, a dial, a surface fastener (such as Velcro (trademark)), as described herein.

[0157] In some embodiments, by applying conductive layer 44 to substrate 40, biosignal sensor 20 is formed. The conductive layer is applied to the inward-facing surface 46 of substrate 40, and the inward-facing surface 46 is adapted to be placed against the user's head when wearable device 10 is worn. In some embodiments, conductive layer 44 is applied as a conductive ink. In some embodiments, the conductive ink includes silver, carbon, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the conductive layer is applied by pad printing, silk screening, spraying, or painting. In some embodiments, the conductive layer may not be applied directly to the material, but instead may be applied to a vinyl layer and then applied to the fabric using heat and pressure, such as by ironing. Conductive layer 44 can receive an electrical biosignal from the user at the contact points when in contact with the user's skin.

[0158] In some embodiments, the substrate defines a plurality of apertures 42 such that when conductive ink is applied to the inward-facing surface 46 of the substrate 40, the ink flows through the apertures 42, coats the apertures 42, and ultimately flows to the outward-facing surface 48 of the substrate 40. The ink coating the apertures 42 functions as a through-substrate by providing a path for signals collected at the interface between the user and the conductive layer 44 on the inward-facing surface to be transmitted and collected at the outward-facing surface 48.

[0159] On the outward-facing surface 48, the signal collector 50 is electrically connected to the conductive layer 44 and provides an electrical connection between the conductive layer 44 of the biosignal sensor and the electronic module 32. The absence of elements on the inward-facing surface 46 reduces the presence of potentially uncomfortable stress points that are pressed against the user's skin during wear. In some embodiments, the signal collector 50 is connected to the conductive layer 44 by an adhesive layer 49, such as an adhesive layer or a second conductive ink layer. In some embodiments, the signal collector 50 is attached to the substrate, such as by being sewn or welded (such as RF welding) onto the substrate 40.

[0160] In some embodiments, the signal collector 50 includes a flexible printed circuit board (“FPCB”) or film 50. In some embodiments, the FPCB includes a polyimide or similar film that is plated with copper and selectively removed (such as by etching) for fabricating circuits. The copper is optionally covered with another layer of polyimide or similar film or a liquid solder mask. In some embodiments, the FPCB includes multiple copper layers. In some embodiments, the FPCB includes a thicker polyimide or glass fiber or metal for providing rigidity to a specific area. In some embodiments, the film is a stretchable film, such as a thermoplastic elastomer, a thermoplastic urethane, or another plastic film. In some embodiments, the film can exhibit elastic deformation after being stretched by at least 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, or 50% extension compared to its non-stretched state.

[0161] In some embodiments, the coating layer is disposed on the substrate 40 and the signal collector 50. The coating layer can reduce protrusions that may catch on other surfaces such as pillows, helmets, etc. In some embodiments, the coating layer is a fabric material, a rubber material, or any combination thereof.

[0162] As shown in FIGS. 10A - 10C, the biosignal sensor 20 can be formed from a flexible printed circuit board ( "FPCB") 1020. The FPCB 1020 can have contacts 1030 formed from a suitable conductive material such as silver ink. The FPCB 1020 can be configured on the body 111 of the wearable device 100 such that, in use, the contacts 1030 contact at least a portion of the user 10's forehead. Such an FPCB can be sealed as long as the connections are properly sealed. The PCBs and FPCBs described herein, along with the associated components, can be waterproofed by applying a coating, thereby making the wearable device 100 and various components washable.

[0163] In some embodiments, the body 111 can be formed from an outer layer 1022 and an inner layer 1024. Each of the outer layer 1022 and the inner layer 1024 can be formed from materials such as the fabric 121 and the reinforcing member 131 as described herein.

[0164] FIG. 10A is a rear view of the outer layer 1022 and the inner layer 1024 of the body 111. FIG. 10B is a perspective view of the outer layer 1022 of the body 111. FIG. 10C is a perspective view of the inner layer 1024 of the body 111. As shown in FIG. 10C, the FPCB 1020 can be folded over the inner layer 1024.

[0165] Thus, when the outer layer 1022 is fixed to the inner layer 1024, the circuit of the FPCB 1020 can be sandwiched between the outer layer 1022 and the inner layer 1024, and the contacts 1030 remain exposed on the inner layer 1024 for contacting the user 10's forehead.

[0166] The use of two layers, namely, for example, outer layer 1022 and inner layer 1024 in the configuration described herein, can protect the edge of FPCB 1020, protect the circuit of FPCB 1020, and reduce visible seams (since it is surrounded between outer layer 1022 and inner layer 1024).

[0167] FIG. 10D is a side view of a flexible printed circuit board configuration that can be used as a biosignal sensor 20 in a wearable device 100 according to one embodiment. The flexible printed circuit board ( "FPCB") 1120 can be formed from copper and PI disposed in a polyimide ( "PI") - copper - PI layer.

[0168] The PI coverlay 1122 can be attached to the FPCB 1120 by an adhesive layer 1124. In use, the PI coverlay 1122 can be disposed on the wearable device 100 so as to contact, for example, the forehead of the user 10. Thus, the FPCB 1120 can be foldable in the direction indicated by arrow A.

[0169] The configuration illustrated in FIG. 10D can enable reduction of sharp edges and exposure of surfaces where tears may start in the FPCB 1120.

[0170] FIG. 11A illustrates an embodiment of a layer of fabric 121 in which contact points 1220 of the biosignal sensor 20 are formed from one or more silver electrodes formed, for example, from silver paint (soft silver or silver chloride) on thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). The contact points 1220 are, in one example, connected (e.g., riveted) to the FPCB via leads 1240, can be folded behind the fabric 121, and can be folded under or overlapped between the layers of fabric and / or foam that form the wearable device 100.

[0171] FIG. 11E illustrates biosignal sensor contact points 1220 and leads 1240 connected to a flexible printed circuit board 1120 in a wearable device 100 according to one embodiment.

[0172] In some embodiments, the biosignal sensor 20 may be formed by a silver paste on a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) to form contacts such as contact 1220. In some embodiments, silver ink such as DuPont™ fabric ink, silver fabric or silver thread may be used to form contact 1220. The silver contacts may be exposed at locations where they contact the user's body, for example, to sense EEG.

[0173] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 11A, contact 1220 expands at the bottom of the wearable device 100. When worn on the user's forehead, the lower position of the user's forehead is less likely to be obstructed by hair, and thus there is a larger surface area of contact 1220, increasing the surface area contact with the user's forehead, which can improve the signal quality and reliability of the EEG signal received by the biosignal sensor 20. Contact 1220 can be positioned under the upper portion of the wearable device 100 and can extend to the bottom of the wearable device 100. Since hair can be trapped between the user and the wearable device 100, contact 1220 can be positioned under the upper portion of the wearable device 100 where hair is likely to interfere with contact 1220. Hair may be less likely to obstruct the signal towards the bottom of the wearable device 1220, and thus contact 1220 can be configured to extend to the bottom of the wearable device 100 and receive biosignals without being obstructed by hair.

[0174] Figure 11B is an enlarged view of the central contact of Figure 11A. The intermediate contact 1220A (a subset of the contacts 1220) is positioned under the upper part of the wearable device 100 and has a symmetric design that extends to the bottom of the wearable device 100. The peripheral contacts 1220B (a subset of the contacts 1220) are positioned adjacent to both sides of the intermediate contact 1220A. The peripheral contacts 1220B are positioned under the upper part of the wearable device 100 and have a design that extends to the bottom of the wearable device 100. The peripheral contacts 1220B also taper away from the intermediate contact 1220A at the bottom of their design. The remote contacts 1220C (a subset of the contacts 1220) have a profile similar to that of the peripheral contacts 1220B, but are positioned on both sides of the intermediate contact 1220A at a distance away from the peripheral contacts 1220B.

[0175] Figure 11C illustrates an exemplary alternative to the contact design of the central contact shown in Figure 11B. The intermediate contact 1220A (a subset of the contacts 1220) is positioned under the upper part and above the lower part of the wearable device 100 and has a symmetric design with an elliptical shape. The peripheral contacts 1220B (a subset of the contacts 1220) are positioned adjacent to both sides of the intermediate contact 1220A. The shape of the peripheral contacts 1220B is shorter than that of the intermediate contact 1220A and is positioned further under the upper part of the wearable device 100 than the intermediate contact 1220A, and matches the shape of the intermediate contact 1220A except that their shape is cut laterally on the side of the peripheral contacts 1220B adjacent to the intermediate contact 1220A. The remote contacts 1220C (a subset of the contacts 1220) have a profile similar to that of the intermediate contact 1220A except that they are shorter than the intermediate contact 1220A and are positioned further under the upper part of the wearable device 100 than the intermediate contact 1220A. The remote contacts 1220C are positioned on both sides of the intermediate contact 1220A and at a distance away from the peripheral contacts 1220B.

[0176] Figure 11D illustrates an exemplary alternative to the contact design of the central contact shown in Figure 11B. The intermediate contact 1220A (a subset of the contacts 1220) has a generally circular shape and is positioned approximately at the center of the wearable device 100. The peripheral contacts 1220B (a subset of the contacts 1220) are positioned adjacent to both sides of the intermediate contact 1220A. The shape of the peripheral contacts 1220B has a narrow width at the top that gradually widens towards the bottom, and the shape tapers around the intermediate contact 1220A. The remote contacts 1220C (a subset of the contacts 1220) have a profile similar to that of the peripheral contacts 1220B. The remote contacts 1220C are positioned on both sides of the intermediate contact 1220A and at a distance away from the peripheral contacts 1220B.

[0177] As shown in Figure 11E, the contacts 1220 can be covered with carbon when they are not intended to be exposed, such as when they are disposed within the body 111 or, for example, between the layers of the wearable device 100 that form the leads 1240. In some embodiments, the leads 1240 are reinforced with carbon, which can provide additional or redundant conductive properties. Carbon can enable a certain degree of conductivity and connectivity that can be useful in cases where the connection of the silver substrate is impaired or slightly impaired.

[0178] Signals can be transmitted via such leads to a rivet that connects the signals to a flexible printed circuit board ( "FPCB") 1120, such as a flexible PCB formed from copper and PI disposed in a polyimide ( "PI") - copper - PI layer within the wearable device 100. The FPCB can then transmit the signal to the connection portion of the fabric 121 and connect it to the electronic module 32.

[0179] In some embodiments, the FPCB can be riveted to the fabric layer and the soft silver / silver chloride TPU contacts. Advantageously, the riveting can enable, for example, mass production of the wearable device 100 at the factory level.

[0180] In some embodiments, layers such as the FPCB and contacts can be sewn together.

[0181] Additional configurations of the contacts 1220 and leads 1240 of the biosignal sensor 20 are illustrated in FIGS. 11B - 11D. The positioning of the contacts 1220 can be selected such that the contacts are discrete and receive useful biosignal data such that they are not in proximity to each other, e.g., interfering with their signals.

[0182] Other suitable sensor configurations are also contemplated.

[0183] As shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, a plurality of biosignal sensors 20, such as electrodes, can be disposed on the body 111 of the wearable device 100.

[0184] FIGS. 12A and 12B illustrate an embodiment of a wearable device 100 having a redundant array of biosignal sensor 20 electrodes connected to a single electronic module 32 by wiring 1222. In one example, the wiring 1222 can be conductive thread. The electronic module 32 can evaluate which biosignal sensor 20 to use using a signal quality indicator. For example, it depends on where the received biosignal is the cleanest or strongest.

[0185] The biosignal sensor 20 located at and connected to the ear contact portion 14 of the wearable device 100 may be referred to as an "ear electrode" as described herein. It will be understood that such an electrode may also be used to detect signals above, on, or below the user's ear. Such "ear electrodes" can be deformable earphones in the form of open bow ear electrodes 1002, closed bow ear electrodes 1004, shaped ear electrodes 1102, and movable ear electrodes 1202, as described below with reference to FIGS. 13A - 13C, FIG. 14, and FIGS. 15A - 15B. Such ear electrodes can be configured to contact at least a portion of the auricular region of the user's head, such as the user 10's ear or mastoid bone region. The ear electrode may include a pressable area with a thin rubber cushion, air cushion, or gel cushion that can be pressed against the ear.

[0186] FIG. 13A illustrates a schematic side view of an embodiment of the wearable device 100 having an ear electrode 1002 with an open "bow" design and an ear electrode 1004 with a closed "bow" design, and FIG. 13B is an enlarged view thereof. FIG. 13C illustrates a schematic side view of an embodiment of the wearable device 100 having an ear electrode 1004 with a closed "bow" design.

[0187] The ear electrode 1002 may include a strip of flexible conductive material 1012 connected at each end to the body 111 of the wearable device 100. The body 111 of the wearable device 100 may have a notched area over the ear electrode 1002 that allows the conductive material 1012 to move freely. When the wearable device 100 is placed on the user 10's head, the downward pressure can be distributed along the length of the conductive material 1012, which can increase the contact area and signal quality and provide a comfortable fit for the user 10.

[0188] The shape of the conductive material 1012 that contacts the user's ear can be changed. For example, as shown in FIG. 13A, the main body 111 may define an opening shown as the inner region 1301 of the main body 111, may be open, may have a semi-circular shape, and may allow the conductive material 1012 to be crushed toward the main body 111 during wearing. The conductive material 1012 may be curved to conform to the user's ear 10. A comfortable conductive rubber ear contact may be provided to provide a fit for holding the wearable device 100 on the head, comfort, and contact for conductivity from the conductive material 1012. The conductive rubber 1012 may be placed on the upper part of the user's ear (e.g., the region between the upper ear tip and the head). The user's ear 10 generally does not extend through the inner region 1301, but the main body 111 is placed between the ear and the head, and the ear is outside the inner region 1301 during normal wearing.

[0189] The conductive material 1012 can be, for example, conductive rubber. In one example, the conductive material 1012 can be formed from silicon rubber injected and / or coated with carbon. In some embodiments, the conductive material 1014 can be formed from a thermoplastic elastomer injected with carbon and coated with a PEDOT conductive polymer layer. Other suitable conductive materials can also be used.

[0190] Similarly, as shown in FIG. 13C, the ear electrode 1004 can include a flexible conductive material 1014 (e.g., formed from conductive rubber), be shaped at the bottom 1024 and the top 1034 to define an open opening having a generally semi-circular perimeter, and allow the bottom 1024 to be crushed toward the top 1034 and the main body 111. The conductive material 1014 may be curved on the bottom 1024 to conform to the user's ear 10. A comfortable conductive rubber ear contact may be provided to provide a fit for holding the headband or wearable device on the head, comfort, and contact for conductivity from the conductive material 1014.

[0191] During use, the middle and upper portion 1034 can contact the upper part of the user 10's ear, for example, when the wearable device 100 moves during sleep. The conductive rubber 1014 can be placed at the upper part of the user's ear (for example, the area between the upper ear tip and the head). The user 10's ear generally does not extend through the inner region 1301, but the main body 111 is between the ear and the head, and the ear is placed outside the inner region 1301 during normal wearing, and the bottom 1024 and the upper part 1034 are in contact with the area inside and around the upper ear tip and the head of the user 10.

[0192] The conductive material 1014 can be formed from the same or a similar material as the conductive material 1012.

[0193] FIG. 13D illustrates various configurations of the wearable device 100 having the ear electrode 1002 according to various embodiments.

[0194] FIG. 14 illustrates a schematic side view of an embodiment of the wearable device 100 having an ear electrode 1102 shaped to contact the upper and back surfaces of the user 10's ear.

[0195] The shaped ear electrode 1102 can comprise a piece of flexible conductive material 1112 (for example, rubber) connected to the main body 111 of the wearable device 100. The electrode material 1112 can be shaped to form a contour around the upper and back surfaces of the ear, increase the skin contact area, and assist in the fit.

[0196] The conductive material 1112 can be formed from the same or a similar material as the conductive material 1012.

[0197] The stretchable or elastic portion 1104 of the main body 111 of the wearable device 100 can enable it to fit a number of head sizes while maintaining proper positioning of the electrodes above and behind the ear.

[0198] FIG. 15A illustrates a side schematic view of an embodiment of a wearable device 100 having an ear electrode 1202 that can be movable to provide skin contact on various head shapes, and FIG. 15B is an enlarged view thereof.

[0199] FIGS. 15A and 15B illustrate a movable ear electrode 1202 in which a conductive tube 1212 is in contact with an exposed conductive wire or thread 1214. The conductive tube 1212 contacts the wire 1214 regardless of the location where the wire 1214 is disposed along the open area. The wire 1214 then transmits the sensed biosignal to the electronic module 32.

[0200] The conductive tube 1212 can be hollow and have a generally cylindrical shape or other suitable shape that allows movement in the direction illustrated by arrow B.

[0201] The conductive tube 1212 can be formed from the same or a similar material as the conductive material 1012.

[0202] Due to signal quality requirements, it may be desirable to place the electrodes in areas with little hair, such as above or behind the ear. Since the intertragal forehead arc length (the distance across the forehead between the ears) varies quite a bit between individuals, a portion of the wearable device 100 may need to stretch or extend (e.g., as shown in FIG. 14, 1104 shows an extendable portion within a non-stretchable device), or alternatively, a movable electrode such as the movable ear electrode 1202 can provide an arrangement of electrodes that contact the user 10's ear.

[0203] In some embodiments, the biosignal sensor 20 can be incorporated into the body 111 at the ear contact portion 14 so as to cover the user 10's ear with, for example, a generally rectangular or generally circular contact or conductive sensor formed from silver ink or other materials incorporated into the body 111.

[0204] In various embodiments, it is understood that the shapes and configurations of the ear electrodes 1002, 1004, the shaped ear electrode 1102, and the movable ear electrode 1202 can be adapted to the shape and configuration of the main body 111 so as to complement each other. For example, the main body 111 can be configured to extend at the forehead contact portion 12 and adjacent to the ear contact portion 14 for use with the shaped ear electrode 1102 such that the ear electrodes remain more conformable or are less likely to deform with more changes to the main body 111. This can enable a better fit to the head of the user 10. Similarly, longer ear electrodes, such as the ear electrode 1004, can be used with a less flexible main body 111 since the longer ear electrodes can accommodate different ear sizes.

[0205] Some embodiments can reversibly couple an attachment portion of a headset (e.g., a headset wire) to the wearable device 100. The reversible coupling can be used to loosely secure an external headset in a region proximate to the user's ear. The coupling can be realized in various ways, such as Velcro attachment or a clasp. This can prevent movement of the external headset during sleep.

[0206] Referring to FIGS. 16 - 19A, and 19B, in some embodiments, the wearable device 100 includes an internal earphone 144 having a conductive sensor.

[0207] FIGS. 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 14, 15A, and 15B illustrate that in some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can include additional biosignal sensors 20, 1002, 1004, 1102, or 1202 that contact at least a portion of the auricular region of the head of the user 10. In some embodiments, the additional biosignal sensors 20, 1002, 1004, 1102, or 1202 are electroencephalogram (EEG) sensors.

[0208] As shown in FIG. 16, the inner earphone 144 can be shaped to fit the pinna of the ear of the user 10. The inner earphone 144 is a conductive sensor and can be connected to the signal transmission line 146. In some embodiments, the inner earphone 144 can have a conductive material similar or identical to the conductive material 1012 described herein. Thus, the inner earphone 144 can form an inner ear sensor to contact the external auditory canal of the user 10, for example, the outer ear canal.

[0209] The signal transmission line 146 is a wire or other similar conductive material and can be connected to the electronic module 32.

[0210] As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the wearable device 100 can further include a sound distribution module 170 that includes a sound generator 172 connected to the inner earphone 174 via a hollow tube 176. The sound generator 172 receives an audio signal from the audio transmission line 178.

[0211] As shown in FIG. 17, the inner earphone 174 can be shaped to fit the pinna of the ear of the user 10. In some embodiments, the inner earphone 174 can be shaped, for example, by thermoforming, to fit the specific ear shape of the user 10. The inner earphone 174 can be a conductive sensor and is connected to the signal transmission line 175. In some embodiments, the inner earphone 174 can have a conductive material similar or identical to the conductive material 1012 described herein. In some embodiments, the inner earphone 174 can be insulating, and the signal transmission line can be disposed through the inner earphone 174 to provide a conductive surface that contacts the ear of the user 10.

[0212] The sound generator 172 can be located, for example, 2 cm to 30 cm away from the inner earphone 174. The sound generator 172 can be a speaker or driver for generating sound waves that travel through the hollow tube 176 to the inner earphone 174.

[0213] In one example, the hollow tube 176 is, for example, a hollow plastic tube with a diameter of 2 to 3 mm. The hollow tube 176 can generally be rigid so as not to fold in a manner that impedes the traveling sound waves.

[0214] Advantageously, distancing the sound generator from the sensing (e.g., of the user 10's biometric signals from the conductive sensor portion of the inner earphone 174) can allow the sound to be generated with less interference to the sensor's reading.

[0215] FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram of a sound distribution module 170 connected to the electronic module 32 of the wearable device 100, and the signal transmission line 175 and the audio transmission line 178 are connected to the electronic module 32.

[0216] FIGS. 19A and 19B illustrate a sound distribution module 190 including a sound generator (not shown, e.g., sound generator 172) connected to the inner earphone 194 via a hollow tube 196.

[0217] As shown in FIGS. 19A and 19B, the inner earphone 194 can be shaped to conform to the auricle of the user 10's ear. The inner earphone 194 may be insulating and may not be a conductive sensor.

[0218] The inner earphone 194 can be supported by a conductive sensor such as a closed-loop frame 198A or an open-loop frame 198B. The closed-loop frame 198A, and similarly the open-loop frame 198B, can be shaped to conform to the auricle of the user 10's ear.

[0219] The closed-loop frame 198A is connected to a signal transmission line 199 that can be connected to the electronic module 32 for transmitting biometric signals from the conductive sensor.

[0220] Advantageously, for example, similar to the closed-loop frame 198A or the open-loop frame 198B, the use of a conductive sensor away from the inner ear canal of the user 10 can function as an insulator on the conductive sensor and avoid the accumulation of earwax that can degrade signal quality. Such a conductive sensor can also allow for a larger surface area for the sensor to contact the user beyond the inner ear canal.

[0221] As shown in FIGS. 3-5, in some embodiments, the body 111 of the wearable device 100 can include at least one overhead support strap. The at least one support strap can provide additional support over the head and distribute the force over a larger area on the head. In some embodiments, the overhead support strap is arranged in a front-to-back orientation, a side-to-side orientation, or a diagonal orientation. In some embodiments, the overhead support strap is arranged in a side-to-side orientation. In some embodiments, the at least one overhead support strap is connected to the loop at the ear contact portion 14. In some embodiments, the at least one overhead support strap includes the crown strap 18A, the top strap 18B, or a combination thereof. The side-to-side orientation provides a force that can be partially counteracted by straps elsewhere on the device. For example, at least some of the force acting on the user's head from the top strap 18B can be counteracted by the posterior contact portion 16 of the loop. Similarly, at least some of the force acting on the user's head from the crown strap 18A can be counteracted by the frontal contact portion 12 of the loop. In contrast, because a front-to-back strap has a counteracting force, the device may require a jaw strap or other strap that exerts a force on the lower surface of the skill.

[0222] A biosignal sensor located where hair exists can be selected for its ability to acquire signals despite the impedance that can be generated by the presence of hair. Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, in some embodiments, the wearable device 100 includes a biosignal sensor 20 such as at least one support strap such as a crown strap 18A, a top strap 18B, a posterior contact portion 16, or at least one hair-penetrating biosignal sensor 22 located in both. In some embodiments, the hair-penetrating biosignal sensor 22 can be disposed at other locations on the body 111, including a forehead contact portion 12 and an ear contact portion 14. The hair-penetrating biosignal sensor 22 can be a pinch sensor or a sensor having a prong (e.g., similar to the prong 3536 discussed in more detail below) for extending through the user's hair to contact the skin 11.

[0223] Exemplary embodiments of the hair-penetrating biosignal sensor 22 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 20-27. The hair-penetrating biosignal sensor 22 can be incorporated, for example, into a reinforcing member 131 and a region of the body 111 of the wearable device 100 that is rigid or reinforced. The hair-penetrating biosignal sensor 22 can also be incorporated into an opening or track defined by the body 111 that allows for lateral movement of the hair-penetrating biosignal sensor along the body 111. Thus, the hair-penetrating biosignal sensor 22 can be fixed in position, for example, by a corresponding thread on the hair-penetrating biosignal sensor 22 that captures a portion of the body 111 and provides a friction fit when rotated.

[0224] According to one aspect of the embodiments described in this specification, the main body 111 may include a sensor such as a biosignal sensor 3500 for obtaining biosignals from the scalp or skin 11 of the user 10. Referring to FIG. 24, the biosignal sensor 3500 is provided. The sensor 3500 is preferably configured to receive biosignals from the user 10 from the user's head or through the skin 11 of the user 10. Referring to FIG. 25, the biosignal sensor 3500 may be included in a support portion 4002 of a device 4000, such as the main body 111 of the wearable device 100. The device 4000 optionally includes at least one deformable portion 4004, made of, for example, foam, connected to the support portion 4002 to provide comfort and / or support when the device 4000 is worn by the user 10.

[0225] Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, the biosignal sensor 3500 includes a main body 3520 having a spherical portion 3528, an electrode 3530 extendable within the main body 3520, the electrode having a contact end 3532 configured to receive an electrical biosignal from the skin 11 of the user 10, and in response to a downward force acting on the biosignal sensor 3500 for pressing the biosignal sensor 3500 against the skin 11 of the user, and when contacting the skin 11 of the user 10, the electrode 3530 is configured to move within the main body 3520 along a movement axis 3522, an actuator 3540 operably connected to the electrode 3530 for pressing the electrode 3530 from the main body 3520 to an extended position along the movement axis 3522, where in the absence of a downward force, the electrode 3530 is disposed in the extended position, and a contact adjuster 3550 connected to the electrode 3530, the contact adjuster including a handle 3552 operable by the user to reduce noise in the electrical biosignal caused by the impedance of the user's hair.

[0226] A force having upward and downward components is applied to press the biosignal sensor 3500 against the skin 11 of the user 10, and an electrical signal is received from the user 10. The electrode 3530 moves along the movement axis 3522 from the extended position to the retracted position into the electrode receiving space 3524 of the main body 3520 (see, for example, FIG. 21). However, the user's hair may interfere with the ability of the biosignal sensor 3500 to receive an electrical signal from the skin 11 of the user 10. For example, the user's hair may form a barrier (or "tangle") that functions as an insulating layer between the contact end and the user's skin. The insulating layer may interfere with or block the reception of the electrical signal. Thus, in some embodiments, the biosignal sensor 3500 is configured to reduce the impedance effect of the user's hair.

[0227] In some embodiments, the contact end 3532 of the electrode 3530 includes a collection plate 3534 and a plurality of prongs 3536 extending from the collection plate 3534. Each prong includes a distal end 3537 for contacting the skin 11 of the user 10. In an electrode having a single contact surface, the user's hair may form a tangle under the single contact surface, and the gap volume 3538 defined by the prong 3536, the collection plate 3534, and the skin 11 of the user 10 may receive the user's hair and reduce or prevent the formation of a tangle under the distal end 3537 of the prong. In some embodiments, the extension of the electrode 3530 from the main body 3520 in the extended position is adjustable using a contact adjuster 3550. In some embodiments, the contact adjuster 3550 includes a compression joint or screw engagement that meshes with the electrode or the main body to adjust the extension of the electrode 3530 in the extended position. The extension of the electrode 3530 from the main body 3520 is adapted to users having different volumes of hair. For example, a user having thick and long hair may have a relatively large volume of hair, which may create an electrical barrier if a tangle is formed. For such a user, the extension position may be adjusted so that the electrode 3530 extends further from the main body 3520 than for a user with short or no hair.

[0228] In some embodiments, the contact adjuster 3550 is configured to move the electrode along the movement axis 3522. In some embodiments, the handle is configured to lift the electrode 3530 when pressed against the skin 11 of the user 10 and to reposition the electrode for placement against the skin 11 of the user 10. In some embodiments, the movement of the contact adjuster 3550 collectively moves a plurality of prongs 3536. For example, in some embodiments, the contact adjuster 3550 is connected to the collection plate 3534 and is configured to move the collection plate. The movement of the collection plate 3534 moves a plurality of prongs 3536 extending from the collection plate 3534.

[0229] When a downward force is applied, the electrode 3530 moves into the body 3520 along the movement axis 3522 (see FIG. 21). If the electrode 3530 significantly retracts into the body 3520, the body 3520 can be proximal to the skin 11 of the user 10. This can cause, for example, the user's hair located under the body 3520 of the sensor 3500 to form a barrier layer that interferes with good contact between the electrode 3530 and the skin 11 of the user 10. Thus, in some embodiments, the body 3520 includes a contact end 3526 that includes at least one groove 3529 for receiving at least a portion of the user's hair therein.

[0230] To provide better comfort to the user, the pressure of the electrode 3530 on the skin 11 of the user 10 cannot be excessive. In some embodiments, the distal ends 3537 of the plurality of prongs 3536 are rounded. In contrast to a sharp tip, a rounded tip distributes the force applied to the skin over a larger area. In some embodiments, the radius of the distal end is from about 0.25 mm to about 1 mm. In some embodiments, the radius of the distal end is about 0.5 mm. The number and spacing of the prongs 3536 are selected such that the pressure applied to the skin 11 of the user 10 is not excessive and there is sufficient contact area to receive a good proper signal from the user's skin while maintaining sufficient clearance volume to accommodate the user's hair between the prongs 3536. In some embodiments, the electrode 3530 has a prong density of about 15 to 40 prongs per square centimeter. In some embodiments, the electrode 3530 has a prong density of about 25 prongs or pins per square centimeter.

[0231] The larger area of the contact end of the electrode 3530 can provide better electrical measurements. However, if the area is too large, it may not fit well with the skin. One of the reasons is that the skin is usually not completely flat. The increase in the area of the contact end of the electrode also increases the possibility that the curvature of the skin bends away at a distance, resulting in a loss of contact of the electrode. Therefore, in some embodiments, the area of the contact end of the electrode 3530 including the prongs 3536 with a gap area between the prongs is about 1 cm 2 ~ about 3 cm 2 . In some embodiments, the area of the contact end of the electrode 3530 with prongs including the gap section between the prongs is about 1.5 cm 2 . In some embodiments, the shape of the contact end 3532 of the electrode is circular or polyhedral. The shape of the contact end 3532 can help move the user's hair to reduce or prevent the impedance effect of the user's hair.

[0232] In some embodiments, the contact adjuster 3550 is configured to rotate the electrode along a plane substantially perpendicular to the movement axis. The rotational movement can move the hair disposed under the sensor 3500. In some embodiments where the sensor includes a plurality of prongs 3536, the rotational movement can move the hair into the gap volume 3538. In some embodiments, the rotational movement of the contact adjuster 3550 is not restricted. In some embodiments, the rotational movement of the contact adjuster 3550 is restricted.

[0233] In some embodiments, the actuator 3540 includes a spring, a piston, a compressible material, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the actuator 3540 includes a spring 3542. In some embodiments, the spring 3542 is a coil spring. The spring 3542 is disposed within the electrode receiving space 3524 such that one end is biased against the upper end 3526 of the body with respect to the electrode 3530 so that the electrode 3530 is pushed out of the electrode receiving space 3524 towards the extended position. In some embodiments, the spring 3542 biases against the upper end of the collecting plate 3532 of the electrode 3530. When a downward force is applied to the sensor 3500 and the electrode 3530 hits the skin 11 of the user 10, the spring 3542 resists the movement of the electrode 3530 into the body 3520 such that the force is translated to the electrode 3530 pressing it against the skin 11 of the user 10.

[0234] In some embodiments, the spring 3542 is fixed to the body 3520 at one end and biased against the electrode 3530 at the other end, and the contact adjuster 3550 includes a rotational force perpendicular to the movement direction from the handle 3552 to the electrode 3530, a translational force along the movement direction from the handle to the electrode, and a shaft 3554 extending through the compression axis 3544 of the spring 3542 for translating both. In some embodiments, the compression axis is coaxial or substantially coaxial with the movement axis 3522. In some embodiments where the spring 3542 is a coil spring, the coils of the coil spring are wound helically around the shaft 3554 of the contact adjuster 3550.

[0235] In some embodiments, the actuator 3540 includes a plurality of actuators (not shown) corresponding to the plurality of prongs 3536. In some embodiments, the plurality of actuators individually bias the prongs against the skin 11 of the user 10. This may allow for better conformity of the sensor to the skin 11 of the user 10, for example, because the skin may not be completely flat.

[0236] The electrophysiological signal received by the electrode 3530 can be transmitted to a signal receiver such as a processor or other computing device (not shown). In some embodiments, the signal receiver receives the electrophysiological signal from the body 3520 of the sensor. In some embodiments, the body includes a conductive portion 3527 for receiving the electrophysiological signal from the electrode. The conductive portion 3527 can be a conductive coating, a conductive material incorporated into the body, or both. In some embodiments, the conductive coating is a conductive paint such as a metal paint or a carbon paint. In some embodiments, the metal paint includes silver, gold, silver chloride, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the conductive material is a carbon-filled plastic or a conductive metal. In some embodiments, the body is 3D printed with a conductive material incorporated therein. In some embodiments, the impedance between the electrode and the connection of the wire from the signal receiver on the sensor is less than about 1 kΩ. In some embodiments, the impedance between the electrode and the connection on the sensor is from about 1 Ω to about 500 Ω. In some embodiments, the connection is on the body 3520 or on the housing 3760 of the sensor 3700 shown in FIG. 19.

[0237] In some embodiments, the actuator 3540 electrically connects the electrode 3530 to the body 3520. For example, an electrophysiological signal can be transmitted from the electrode 3530 to the body 3520 via the actuator 3540. In some embodiments where the actuator 3540 includes a spring 3542, the spring 3542 is conductive. For example, at one end, the spring 3542 biased against the collection plate 3534 and at the other end biased against the body 3520 can function as a conductor.

[0238] According to one aspect of the embodiments described herein, the body 111 may include a sensor such as a biosignal sensor 3700 for obtaining biosignals from the scalp or skin 11 of the user 10. Referring to FIGS. 22 and 23, in some embodiments, the sensor 3700 includes a gimbal 3770 configured to orient the electrode 3730 perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the skin 11 of the user 10. The vertically oriented electrode 3730 may have better contact with the user's skin. For example, when the prongs 3736 are of the same length, the vertical orientation prevents angular contact with the user's skin where a particular prong cannot be lifted from the user's skin. Further, when the electrode 3730 contacts the skin at an angle, one or more prongs 3736 may be pushed up by the hair. In some embodiments, the body 3720 includes a spherical portion 3728, and the sensor further includes a housing 3760 defining a joint portion 3762 configured to receive the spherical portion 3728 of the body 3720. Thus, the gimbal 3770 includes the spherical portion 3728 and the joint portion 3762. In some embodiments, the spherical portion 3728 is removably receivable by the joint portion 3762. In some embodiments, the interface between the joint portion 3762 and the spherical portion 3728 includes an anti-friction agent. In some embodiments, the anti-friction agent is a carbonaceous material. In some embodiments, the carbonaceous material is essential to at least a portion of the body 3720, the housing 3760, or both. In some embodiments, the housing 3760 includes an electrical connection portion for establishing an electrical connection between the sensor 3700 and a signal receiver.

[0239] In some embodiments, the body 3720 includes at least one groove 3729 for receiving at least a portion of the user's hair therein.

[0240] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the conductive portion 3727 is disposed within or on the spherical portion 3728. In some embodiments, the electrical biosignal received from the electrode 3720 is transmitted from the body 3720 to the housing 3760. In these embodiments, the received signal may be connected to the housing 3760. In some embodiments that include a lubricant, the lubricant includes or is a conductive improver for improving impedance. In some embodiments, the conductive improver is a metal powder, graphite, carbon nanotubes, metal-coated glass, or plastic beads. For example, if the lubricant is a carbonaceous material essential to the body 3720, the carbonaceous material may provide both friction reduction and conductivity. In some embodiments, the wire on the support portion 4002 of the head-mounted device 4000 is connected to the sensor 3700 at one end.

[0241] Referring now to FIGS. 26 and 27, in some embodiments where rotational movement is restricted, sensor 4100 includes a rotation limiter 4170 for restricting the rotational movement of electrode 4130. When the hair rotates excessively in one direction, the hair may become wrapped or entangled. In some embodiments, the rotation limiter allows for oscillatory movement along the axis of rotation for the electrode to enter between the user's hairs. In some embodiments, the rotation limiter restricts the rotational movement to at least about 0.25 radians. In some embodiments, rotation limiter 4170 includes a slot 4172 and a key 4174 configured to rotate restrictively within slot 4172. Movement of electrode 4130 relative to body 4120 is restricted by slot 4172 and key 4174. In some embodiments, the upper end 4126 of body 4120 defines slot 4172 and the shaft 4154 of contact adjuster 4150 includes key 4174. In some embodiments, the rotation limiter includes a stopper disposed on the body, the electrode, the shaft, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, housing 4160 is configured to receive body 4120.

[0242] In some embodiments, a light connected to a processor indicates a brain state in sensor 3500 or sensor 3700. In some embodiments, the brightness or color of the light is changed according to events in the brain such as event-related potentials, continuous EEG, cognitive potentials, steady-state evoked potentials, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the light is integral with the sensor or is attached proximate to the sensor on a support portion of the head-mounted device.

[0243] In some embodiments, body 111 may include other biosignal sensors 20 such as non-contact electrode 180.

[0244] Referring to FIG. 28, in some embodiments, the non-contact electrode 180 includes a conductive layer 182 and a conductive noise layer 184, with a dielectric layer 186 disposed therebetween. The conductive noise layer 184 reduces the noise of the signal obtained by the electrode 180. The conductive noise layer 184 may be an active guard or a ground plane. In some embodiments, a dielectric layer 188 is applied to the user-facing side of the conductive layer 182. The conductive layer 182 is connected to the electronic module 32 or the sensor electronics via a wire 189.

[0245] In some embodiments, the non-contact electrode may take the form of a capacitive electrode 4300 as shown in FIG. 29A, or other suitable capacitive electrode forms. FIG. 29A illustrates a side view of a user 10 wearing a wearable device 100 having a biosignal sensor in the form of a capacitive electrode 4300 according to one embodiment. FIG. 29B illustrates a partial top view of the wearable device 100 of FIG. 29A.

[0246] In some embodiments, the body 111 includes, for example, as shown in FIG. 29A, one or more capacitive electrodes 4300 positioned adjacent to the top of the user 10's head and the back of the user 10's head. The electrodes 4300 may be disposed within the body 111 of the wearable device 100 to receive the user 10's biosignal data. In some embodiments, the received biosignal data may include the user 10's electroencephalogram data. In some embodiments, the capacitive electrodes 4300 may be non-contact electrodes that do not directly contact the user 10's skin 11.

[0247] The body 111 may include a compressible foam 4302 that can conform to the shape of the head of the user 10. In some embodiments, the compressible foam 4302 may be formed from an open-cell foam such as an open-cell foam material known to those skilled in the art. The compressible foam 4302 may be compressible such that when the wearable device 100 is fixed to the head of the user 10, the compressible foam 4302 conforms to the head of the user 10. In use, the compressible foam 4302 may be compressed by the fixing of the body 111 for fixing the wearable device 100 to the user 10 and may conform to the head of the user 10.

[0248] In some embodiments, on the surface of the compressible foam 4302 adjacent to the head of the user 10, the conductive layer 4304 of the capacitive electrode 4300 is fixed to the compressible foam 4302.

[0249] The conductive layer 4304 may have a thickness of 1 to 100 μm, for example 20 μm in one example. The conductive layer 4304 may be formed from a conductive material such as a conductive ink, a conductive polymer, a conductive fabric, or a polymer substrate having a flexible PCB.

[0250] The conductive layer 4304 may be insulated adjacent to the head of the user 10 using an insulating layer 4306. The insulating layer 4306 forms a dielectric medium and causes a capacitive coupling between the conductive layer 4304 and the skin 11 of the user 10. In some embodiments, the hair or other body tissues of the user 10 may further contribute to the dielectric formed by the insulating layer 4306, and the capacitive coupling may be formed across the hair or other body tissues of the user 10. The hair of the user 10 may be compressed by the pressure exerted by the compressible 4302 and held in a predetermined position.

[0251] The insulating layer 4306 may have a thickness of 1 to 100 μm, for example 50 μm in one example. The insulating layer 4306 may be formed from a polymer, for example, polyester.

[0252] The insulating layer 4306 can mitigate variations in capacitive coupling between the conductive layer 4304 and the skin 11 of the user 10 caused by variations in the characteristics of the hair of the user 10 by providing a minimal insulating layer between the conductive layer 4304 and the skin 11 of the user 10. The insulating layer 4306 can also minimize the salt bridge effect that can occur, for example, due to the user's 10 sweat creating a salt bridge that forms an electrical connection between the electrodes, which can lead to inappropriate readings being obtained by the electrodes.

[0253] In some embodiments, the conductive layer 4304 can be connected via a wire (not shown) to the HMD 110 or sensor electronics, such as signal conditioning and amplification circuitry.

[0254] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 includes an electronic module 32 that includes a computing device or processor 30 for receiving biosignals from at least one biosignal sensor 20 located on a loop and / or a hair-penetrating biosignal sensor 22. The electronic module 32 can be connected to any of the biosignal sensors 20, 22 or other sensors described herein. The electronic module 32 can also include a power source, such as one or more batteries, for powering the electronic module 32. In some embodiments, the electronic module 32 is located on the forehead portion 12, ear contact portion 14, occipital portion 16, or a support strap 18, such as the crown strap 18A and the top strap 18B. The electronic module 32 can be attached to a portion of the reinforced, non-flexible body 111 to structurally support the electronic module 32. The electronic module 32 can be selectively attachable and removable on the body 111 of the wearable device 100.

[0255] Advantageously, the electronic module 32 can be removable, as described herein, and in combination with the machine-washable fabric 121 used for the body 111, removing the electronic module 32 can enable the wearable device 100 to be machine washable.

[0256] It will be understood that, due to the module capabilities of the electronic module 32, the electronic module 32 can be used with different compatibilities along with various body configurations or designs.

[0257] Since all of the PCBs or FPCBs and electronic components within the body are passive (except when electricity passes through them), other components of the wearable device 100, such as the body 111, can be washable or hand-washable.

[0258] In some embodiments, the electronic module 32 may be integral with the body 111 and not detachable. In such embodiments, the wearable device 100 can be machine-washable.

[0259] In some embodiments, the electronic module may include the "fixed" electrodes or biosignal sensors described herein that can be directly applied to the user's body or other configurations using a suitable adhesive. Thus, in certain embodiments, the electronic modules may be directly wrapped around the user's arm, affixed on their chest, or on other suitable body parts.

[0260] In one embodiment, the electronic module 32 can be configured to be located at the posterior head contact portion when worn such that the electronic module 32 is located in a depression within the skull below the occipital bone. Placing the electronic module 32 at the posterior head can reduce protrusions and provide better aerodynamics and weight distribution when the device is worn during activities that require movement, and can provide a more refined appearance compared to placement at the frontal contact portion 12 or the support strap 18. When the device is designed for a user who is lying on their side, such as when sleeping, the electronic module 32 can be placed at a location on the device that minimizes the formation of stress points, such as those created by the user's head against the pillow if the user moves during sleep, and minimizes the likelihood that the device will catch on or be caught by the pillow, blanket, etc. In some embodiments, the electronic module 32 can be located at or adjacent to the frontal contact portion 12 that can reduce interference of the electronic module 32 with the user's sleep, regardless of whether the user sleeps on their back or side and regardless of the presence or absence of any type of pillow.

[0261] In one embodiment, the electronic module 32 is located adjacent to the frontal contact portion such that the electronic module 32 is positioned proximal to the user's forehead when worn.

[0262] Thus, since the module can be closer to various sensing regions of interest, centering the electronic module 32 on the user's head can improve the quality and reliability of the received biosignals.

[0263] In some embodiments, the electronic module 32 includes electronic components such as at least one of an analog front end for amplifying and filtering biosignal data, an analog-to-digital converter, a memory for storing biosignal data received from the biosignal sensor 20, a wireless radio for communicating with a remote processor, a battery, a charging circuit, and a connector for charging the battery. In some embodiments, the electronic device package is fixedly or removably attached onto the device. In some embodiments where the electronic device package is removably attached onto the device, the loop includes a port for accommodating the electronic module 32.

[0264] In some embodiments, one or more electronic components, such as a preamplifier, may be disposed outside the electronic module 32 and incorporated into the body 111 of the wearable device 100.

[0265] FIG. 30A is a perspective view of an electronic module 32 that is detachable from the wearable device 100 via a first holding mount 3202 and a second holding mount 3204 attached onto the body 111 of the wearable device 100.

[0266] FIG. 30B is another perspective view of the electronic module 32 detachable from the wearable device 100. FIG. 30C is an enlarged perspective view of the holding mount for the electronic module 32 of the wearable device 100. FIG. 30D is an exploded view of the holding mount for the electronic module 32 of the wearable device 100. FIG. 30E is a side view of the holding mount for the electronic module 32. FIG. 30F is another front perspective view of the holding mount for the electronic module 32 of the wearable device 100. FIG. 30G is an exploded view of the electronic module 32. FIG. 30H is a schematic view of the printed circuit board and components of the electronic module 32.

[0267] The first holding mount 3202 and the second holding mount 3204 can be configured to provide connectivity between the electronic module 32 and other components of the wearable device 100, such as flexible PCBs like FPCB 1020 or FPCB 1120 and the biosignal sensor 20.

[0268] As shown in FIG. 30D, the holding mounts 3202, 3204 can each include bases 3242, 3244. The bases 3242, 3244 are flexible and can be formed from a suitable flexible polymer. The bases 3242, 3244 of the holding mounts 3202, 3204 can be attached to the main body 111 in a flexible manner, such as, while maintaining the ability to transmit axial tension, providing the flexibility to allow rotation of the main body 111 relative to the electronic module 32 as disclosed herein. In some embodiments, other components of the holding mounts 3202, 3204 can be formed from a rigid material.

[0269] In some embodiments, the main body 111 can include an opening 113 through which the optical sensor 3216 can be adapted to light and through which light can pass.

[0270] As shown in FIG. 30A, the electronic module 32 can have a bow or curved shape, particularly as seen with reference to FIG. 2D, and thus, when disposed on the wearable device 100, forms a space between the electronic module 32 and the main body 111 of the wearable device 100.

[0271] The curved shape of the electronic module 32 conforms to various curvatures of the user's body, such as the shape of the user's head and angular forehead, and during use, for example, in the forehead region of the wearable device 100, can be pressed against the biosignal sensor 20 by the forces exerted by the holding of the electronic module 32 against the user's head and the holding of the wearable device 100 around the user's body part such as the user's head.

[0272] The biosignal sensor 20 of the wearable device 100, disposed on a fabric that can have several stretch characteristics, can extend between the holding mounts 3202 and 3204. Thus, the fabric can contact and conform across the user's body part so that, even if the user has a flat forehead or there is a significant amount of pressure on the skin, better biosignal data reading is enabled. The fabric between the holding mounts 3202 and 3204 can stretch to conform to the shape of the electronic module 32 during use. A specific portion of the body 111, for example, behind the electronic module 32, can also include a foam or other suitable compressible material, which can enable compression and adaptability to the user's head, thus enabling better contact of the biosignal sensor 20 with the user, and thus enabling better quality and reliability of the received signal.

[0273] Conveniently, since the intermediate electrode that contacts the user's forehead can be important for signal quality, the shape of the electronic module 32 can be suitable for any head shape, while enabling the electrodes of the biosignal sensor 20 to have good contact with the user's body, such as the skin of the user's forehead.

[0274] Referring to FIG. 30G, in some embodiments, the body of the electronic module 32 can be attached to the holding mounts 3202 and 3204 respectively by snap fits and magnet pairs 3210A - 3210B and 3211A - 3211B that can be polarized to magnetically attract each other. The magnets 3210A and 3211A can be fixed to the holding mounts 3202 and 3204 respectively. The magnets 3210B and 3211B can be fixed to the electronic module 32 at the ends 33A and 33B respectively.

[0275] The magnets 3210A, 3210B, 3211A, and 3211B can also be polarized to ensure that the body of the electronic module 32 is connected to the holding mount in the proper orientation.

[0276] As shown in FIGS. 30D and 30G, in some embodiments, magnets 3210A, 3210B, 3211A, and 3211B have inner ridges along an inner third circumference for conforming them to the body of electronic module 32 and openings in retaining mounts 3202, 3204 for holding the magnets.

[0277] Retaining mount 3202 may also include port 3212, e.g., a serial port for serial communication between printed circuit board (PCB) 3220 of electronic module 32 and a flexible PCB (such as FPCB1020 or FPCB1120) within body 111 of wearable device 100, e.g., connected to biosignal sensor 20.

[0278] PCB 3220 may be formed from three rigid PCBs embedded in and connected together by a flexible PCB.

[0279] Connector 3222, in one example, a serial connector in electronic module 32 for mating with port 3212, may include a push-pin connection for connecting to port 3212, configured as a push pin, spring pin, or pogo pin connector, opposing the forces of magnet pairs 3210A - 3210B and 3211A - 3211B, but maintaining a secure connection between electronic module 32 (and thus PCB 3220) and retaining mount 3202 (and thus an FPCB such as FPCB1020 or 1120 within body 111 connected to a sensor such as biosignal sensor 20). Thus, the connection between PCT 3220, an FPCB such as FPCB1020 or 1120, and biosignal sensor 20 is maintained by pogo pins and magnetic forces.

[0280] In some embodiments, magnets 3210A, 3210B, 3211A, and 3211B may need to be adjusted to ensure good retention against the push pins of connector 3222.

[0281] The electronic module 32 may be attachable to the main body 111 by magnetic force.

[0282] In some embodiments, the electronic module 32 includes a first magnet 3210B at a first end 32A for attachment to a first holding mount 3204 by magnetic force and a second magnet 3211B at a second end 32B for attachment to a second holding mount 3202 by magnetic force.

[0283] As shown in FIG. 30G, in some embodiments, the electronic module 32 includes a PCB 3220 fixed to the rear housing 3201B via a fastener 3203 connected to a connector 3222, via an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) that digitizes an input analog signal received from the biosignal sensor 20 via a PCB or FPCB (such as FPCB1020 or FPCB1120) in the wearable device 100, amplified, for example, by a microcontroller (MCU) 3226 or, for example, one or more analog signal amplifiers 3224, within the front housing 3201A and the rear housing 3201B.

[0284] In some embodiments, the PCB 3220 can be a flexible-rigid PCB that is complementary to the curved shape of the electronic module 32, particularly the front housing 3201A and the rear housing 3201B. A schematic diagram of the PCB 3220 is shown in FIG. 30H.

[0285] As shown in FIG. 30G, in some embodiments, the electronic module 32 further includes a power source for various components of the electronic module 32, such as a battery 3214, which is supported by a battery foam 3215 and can be operated by a power button 3213, an optical sensor 3216, a light emitter 3218, a communication module 3230 and an associated antenna 3232, and a memory 3240. In this way, the wearable device 100 can include electronic components such as an optical sensor 3216, a light emitter 3218, a communication module 3230 and an associated antenna 3232, and a memory 3240.

[0286] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 includes an optical sensor 3216, such as a pulse oximeter, that irradiates the skin and measures changes in light absorption to obtain an optically acquired plethysmogram that can be used to detect changes in blood volume in the microvascular bed of the tissue, a photoplethysmogram (PPG).

[0287] The optical sensor 3216 can be disposed, for example, behind a cover 3217 formed of glass, extend through the opening 113, and be positioned to transmit light through the opening 113.

[0288] In some embodiments, the optical sensor 3216 is disposed in a region of the electronic module 32 near the first holding mount 3202 or the second holding mount 3204. The electronic module 32 can have a bow or curved shape, and by positioning the optical sensor 3216 near the first holding mount 3202 or the second holding mount 3204, the distance between the optical sensor 3216 and the user's skin or fabric can be reduced.

[0289] As shown in FIG. 30I, in some embodiments, the optical sensor 3216 is attached to a flexible protrusion 3228 on the electronic module 32, and the flexible protrusion 3228 can be compressed when the electronic module 32 is drawn towards the user 10's body. The flexible protrusion 3228 can enable the optical sensor 3216 to apply to various user curvatures. The flexible protrusion can enable the optical sensor 3216 to extend into the concave space 35 towards the user's skin (along line G) for a user with little body curvature, but can retract when force is applied by the skin of other users with greater body curvature, ensuring that the flexible protrusion 3228 conforms to different body curvatures.

[0290] The optical sensor 3216 can generate and emit green light wavelength, red light wavelength, and infrared light wavelength that can be used for optical sensing based on detecting the reflection distance of the light reflected by the optical sensor. Other suitable wavelengths may also be contemplated. In some embodiments, the optical sensor 3216 senses light generated by another light source, such as an LED adjacent to the optical sensor on the wearable device 100, or another suitable light source.

[0291] Various such wavelengths can enable receiving different signals and estimating different data. For example, green light can provide a better quality signal, and red light and infrared light can enable pulse oximeter sensing and analysis. Certain extended wavelengths measure oxygen concentration. In one example, the light generated by the optical sensor 3216 can reflect oxygenation and detection and breathe the light to sense the light reflectance, which can indicate the respiratory rate and heart rate.

[0292] In some embodiments, the optical sensor 3216 can sample the optical signal at up to 4 kHz.

[0293] In a particular configuration, the wearable device 100 can be wearable on the user's clothing, and the optical signal can pass through the user's clothing and provide meaningful readings.

[0294] In some embodiments, the optical sensor 3216 can be used to sense the compression of the fabric when the user breathes. In one example, when the fabric such as the body 111 of the wearable device 100 is compressed, the optical sensor 3216 thus moves closer to the user's skin. Therefore, it may be possible to detect that the user is breathing based on the light reflected from the surface such as the user's skin to the optical sensor 3216. In an example where the wearable device 100 is disposed around the user's chest, as the user's chest expands, the wearable device 100 stretches and expands, and the distance between the optical sensor 3216 and the user's skin decreases. Therefore, the light emitted by the optical sensor 3216 does not travel as far before being reflected. Therefore, the light can be used to measure the strain or stretch of the fabric within the wearable device 100. In other embodiments, a strain gauge can be used to determine the compression or stretch of the fabric of the wearable device 100.

[0295] In some embodiments, the optical sensor 3216 detects additional biometric signals based at least in part on the detected reflection distance of the light reflected by the optical sensor.

[0296] In some embodiments, the optical sensor 3216 detects additional biometric signals such as blood flow based at least in part on the measured color and intensity of the light reflected by the optical sensor.

[0297] The illuminator 3218 can include one or more LEDs, or other suitable light sources such as incandescent or fluorescent bulbs.

[0298] In some embodiments, the illuminator 3218 is disposed on the bottom of the electronic module 32 within the line of sight of the user when the wearable device 100 is disposed on the user's head. In some embodiments, the illuminator 3218 can be disposed on other portions of the electronic module 32, such as the top.

[0299] The light emitter 3218 can generate an optical signal to communicate with a user when the wearable device 3218 is on. The optical signal generated by the light emitter 3218 can include various suitable light colors, frequencies, intensities, and settings.

[0300] In some embodiments, the optical sensor 3216 can be configured to detect the light emitted by the light emitter 3218. The optical sensor 3216 can measure the illumination level of the user's eyelid (in addition to, or in contrast to, the light level in a more general environment).

[0301] The light emitter 3218 can be configured to emit light for waking up the user or for use as biofeedback. In one example, a light cue can be used as a wake-up routine. In one example, the light emitter 3218 can blink light to attract the user's attention when the user is sleeping or in a particular sleep state, e.g., to trigger the user to change the sleep state or wake up.

[0302] In one example, the wearable device 100 can be configured to detect when the user is in a dreamy state and send a stimulus, such as light emitted by the light emitter 3218, to arouse the user's consciousness. Thus, the user's dream can be intentionally interrupted. Such an interruption may be done in a way that does not significantly disrupt the user's sleep and may improve the user's dream recall.

[0303] Other stimuli, such as vibration, sound, smell, and / or electric shock, can be similarly applied. For embodiments configured to apply one type of stimulus, there are further embodiments where the device is configured to apply multiple types of stimuli at once. Combinations of some types of stimuli can produce a strong reaction for some users.

[0304] Other examples of stimuli can include stimuli selected and / or generated by the user. These can include, for example, positive approvals. In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can be configured to receive positive approvals from the user and use these approvals as stimuli triggered by the selected event. In some embodiments, the user can select which event triggers a positive approval.

[0305] In some embodiments, electrical stimulation can be applied to the user near the ear. Such stimulation can then stimulate the auricular branch of the vagus nerve by stimulating the auricular region of the user's head. Such nerve stimulation can be very therapeutic for some users in some applications.

[0306] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can be configured to trigger an aroma diffuser in response to a particular event. For example, a calming scent can be diffused near the user when the wearable device 100 detects that the user is in a pre-awakening state or attempting to enter it while sleeping.

[0307] In some embodiments, wearable device 100 can intentionally arouse a sleeping user using light, vibration, sound, smell (such as via spraying of essential oils), or other stimuli. For example, when wearable device 100 detects that the user is in a dream state, wearable device 100 can apply a stimulus to the user to make the user recognize that they are in a dream state, enable the user to clearly control the dream state, allow the user to recall a dream, or play a role in changing the dream experience. In the case of lucid dreams, wearable device 100 arouses the user to a state of awareness that enables lucid dreams. In these embodiments, the stimulus is a stimulus that the user learns to recognize within the dream state, for example, sound, voice stimuli, a pattern of vibration visible through closed eyes or a flash of light, to intentionally arouse the user to consciousness without interrupting the dream state. Wearable device 100 can monitor the dream state and adaptively control the stimulus to provide the intended function. For example, if it is observed that the dream state is too close to the waking state and is interrupted, the stimulus can stop, decrease, or change in some other way, or if the user is not interrupted in some way, the intensity of the stimulus can increase or change in some other way.

[0308] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can apply a stimulus to the user using a pattern determined by the user's sleep phase. These phase-locked stimuli can promote peaceful sleep. Phase locking refers to the function of the wearable device 100 that provides a change in the stimulus according to which phase of sleep the user is in, the pattern observed in the user's sleep phase over the duration prior to the user's sleep, and the past patterns of sleep over multiple nights. In these embodiments, the stimulus can gently guide the user into the user's typical sleep cycle or provide a means to shift the sleep cycle to a more effective pattern for rest, performance, or some other goal (such as dream recall). Further embodiments can train the user to respond predictably to a particular type of stimulus in order to more effectively guide the user through a complete sleep cycle.

[0309] In other embodiments, two users can each wear a wearable device, and the devices can communicate with each other. This can enable synchronization between the sleep patterns of the two users and improve the comfort of sleeping in a shared bed. Another use can be to facilitate shared dreams by aligning the dream phases. Other embodiments can also enable the creation of stimuli, such as wake-up alarms, that can optimize the wake-up alarms for both users simultaneously. The device can process some of the information necessary within the electronic module to reduce the latency resulting from the delay in communication with an external device.

[0310] In some embodiments, two or more wearable devices can communicate using light or sound emitted from the wearable device. The frequency of the light or sound used to communicate between two or more devices can be selected so that it is outside the range of typical human detection.

[0311] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can be further configured to apply a stimulus (e.g., light, vibration, or sound) to the user and determine the effectiveness of that stimulus in arousing the user. The device can be configured to adjust the stimulus (e.g., intensity, timing, type) applied to the user to adaptively vary the user's dream state in a more effective manner.

[0312] As shown in FIG. 2J, in some embodiments, the photoreceiver 3256 can receive and detect ambient light or radiant light near the wearable device 100 or the user's eye using a suitable photodetector.

[0313] In some embodiments, the photoreceiver 3256 is disposed on the body 111 adjacent to the user 10's eye to detect light adjacent to the user 10's eye.

[0314] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 is configured to be worn around the user's chest. These embodiments can provide more extensive respiratory data. For example, a device worn around the chest can provide ECG measurements via electrodes and provide chest expansion using sensors that measure deformation of the body 111. For example, a pair of optical transmitter / receivers can measure compression of the body 111 and can be appropriately filtered through a low-pass filter to measure the chest expansion effect of breathing. A device worn on the chest can be suitable for providing respiratory data through chest movement data, heart movement and electrical data, and chest expansion data.

[0315] In some embodiments, the processes described herein are executed on a local computing device such as a cellular phone local to the user. A user's brain model can be maintained.

[0316] It may be possible to detect whether a user is in a dream state by using the user's brain model to detect changes in brain activity and eye movement, for example, through EOG, physical movement, and the absence of physical movement.

[0317] In some embodiments, the illuminator 3218 can be used to indicate to other users the state of the user, such as that the user is sleeping.

[0318] Accordingly, the illuminator 3218 can be used to indicate a sleep state, time synchronization, physiological signals, direct feedback, heart rate, state of focus, and the like.

[0319] Feedback such as feedback from the illuminator 3218 can be for the user or another person. In one example, emotions can be communicated to someone else. In another example, the illuminator 3218 can provide feedback regarding the patient (user) to a caregiver.

[0320] In some embodiments, brain measurements can be performed using the illuminator 3218. For example, by flashing the light simultaneously and measuring the brain response using, for example, one or more biosignal sensors 20. Accordingly, synchronized brain measurements can be obtained by providing an event (flashing light).

[0321] The illuminator 3218 can also be configured to achieve real-time communication with a local computing device, for example, by line of sight to a receiver in the local computing device. Accordingly, the biological state of the user can be communicated and a biofeedback experience can be created. Advantageously, reduced latency can be achieved.

[0322] In some embodiments, an external camera can read the light emitted by the illuminator 3218 and synchronize those readings with the user's facial expression.

[0323] In some embodiments, the electronic module 32 is also disposed behind a shield 3231 that can shield from noise and includes a communication module 3230, such as a Bluetooth module connected to an antenna 3232, for communicating with a local or remote computing device, for example, using an appropriate communication protocol. In other embodiments, the data transfer can be a wired, Wi-Fi, fiber optic, or other suitable communication protocol between the wearable device 100 and a computing device, such as a local computing device or a remote computing device, which will be described in more detail below.

[0324] The communication module 3230 can be disposed away from the magnet within the electronic module 32 to avoid magnetic interference.

[0325] The communication module 3230 can be configured for other communication protocols, which are selected based on factors such as latency requirements, distance, speed, bandwidth, and interference in a noisy environment.

[0326] In some embodiments, the electronic module 32 includes a memory 3240. The memory 3240 can include a random access memory, a read-only memory, a persistent storage device such as a hard disk, a solid-state drive such as a flash memory, and the like.

[0327] The memory 3240 can be configured to store specific biosignal data sensed by the biosignal sensor 20, various data sensed or processed by components of the wearable device 100, such as an accelerometer, and processes performed on the wearable device 100. Thus, the memory 3240 can store data such as movement data and EEG signals.

[0328] The electronic module 32 can include an external connector 3250, such as a micro USB connector, for charging the battery 3214.

[0329] In some embodiments, the external connector 3250 can be used, for example, for data transfer with another device such as a local or remote computing device, either wired or wireless.

[0330] In some embodiments, the electronic module 32 can also include an authenticator (not shown) that can be configured for anti-counterfeiting measures to authenticate the source of the electronic module 32.

[0331] The authenticator can include a chip on the body 111 of the wearable device 100 and a chip on the electronic module 32. In one example, a flexible PCB having a chip with an authentication code. When the electronic module 32 is connected, the electronic module 32 queries the headband to determine authenticity and receives a response.

[0332] Thus, the electronic module 32 can authenticate the headband of the wearable device 100. The electronic module 32 makes its response and self-authenticates to a remote server. Since both the electronic module 32 and the body 111 have serial numbers, they can be authenticated with a private key. Also, access may be denied for modules that are not properly authenticated.

[0333] The wearable device 100 can also include an ambient light receiver 3256, for example, to detect the level of ambient or room environmental light.

[0334] As shown in FIG. 2J, in an example, the wearable device 100 can include an accelerometer 3258. The accelerometer 3258 can be used to track the user's movement. Based on the user's movement, within a window of time adjacent to the movement at a specific threshold such as plus or minus 30 seconds, biosignal data such as that received from the biosignal sensor 20 can be discarded because the associated EEG signal can be presumed to be of poor quality due to noise added by the user's movement.

[0335] In certain embodiments, it may be desirable to retain biosignal data received while the user's body is relatively stationary, such as when sleeping, meditating, or performing light stretches. This may be because when the user moves more, the dry electrode contacts may not move well with the user, resulting in low reliability of the received signals.

[0336] In some embodiments, the accelerometer 3258 may be used to filter the received biosignal data. For example, if the accelerometer 3258 then senses movement attributable to the user, the biosignal data received within the time range adjacent to that movement may be deleted or filtered.

[0337] The accelerometer 3258 may also be used to conserve battery life by selecting which data to transmit from the wearable device 100 (e.g., to a local or remote computing device). For example, if the accelerometer 3258 detects that the user is moving, the data may be deleted or cached (to be transmitted at a specific time or later time) instead of being transferred to another device.

[0338] In some embodiments, the algorithm - equipped wearable device 100 can make decisions regarding how to process data received from components such as biosignal sensors and accelerometers. Specific local decisions can be enabled through negotiation between the wearable device and an algorithm on a local or remote computing device with which the wearable device 100 is communicating.

[0339] For example, a neural network such as a multi - layer perceptron (MLP) may be implemented on the wearable device 100 to determine whether biosignal data such as EEG is sufficient and to remove noise. Other suitable neural network or machine learning techniques may be considered.

[0340] Thus, the wearable device 100 can be configured to filter signals, for example, using the electronic module 32, so that the measured signals can be transferred to a local or remote computing device without being corrupted, and can provide signal processing and / or conditioning steps.

[0341] The decision-making process can include negotiating how and when to save locally and when to transfer to other local or remote computing devices to handle insufficient data, different sleep states (e.g., when the user is face-down and sleeping, blocking data transmission), etc. Data can be buffered and transmitted when appropriate. In one example, if it is detected that transmission cannot be verified, the data can be saved, buffered, and transmitted when appropriate (e.g., with periodic checks of transmission capabilities).

[0342] Data on the wearable device 100 or the electronic module 32 can be time-stamped. Thus, processing power can be conserved by transmitting only the data required for real-time feedback. Lower-priority data can be cached or saved and instead transmitted at a predetermined time, e.g., in the morning.

[0343] Certain memory or processing capabilities can be available on various components such as the wearable device 100 or the electronic module 32, and other memory and processing can be offloaded to a local or remote computing device with which the wearable device 100 can communicate, such as by Bluetooth or an appropriate communication protocol. In some embodiments, the processing can be executed on the computing device of the wearable device 100, as described in more detail below.

[0344] In some embodiments, the on-board processing may be executed on the wearable device 100. Certain processing may also be performed on other local or remote computing devices. In some embodiments, for example, the remote processing of biosignal data or other data received from the wearable device 100 may be executed remotely on the cloud.

[0345] The processing delegation may be made based on capacity, physical size, and price trade-offs.

[0346] The sampling rate of certain biosignal sensors 20 may be very high so that useful data is reliably acquired. These signals may be processed on-board on the wearable device 100, or on a local or remote computing device. Such data may be transferred to a local or remote computing device in real-time or at specific time intervals.

[0347] Processing may also be involved in performing voice detection and voice generation capabilities for the wearable device 100.

[0348] In use, the wearable device 100 may be configured for real-time behavior that occurs between the computing on the wearable device 100 and a local or remote computing device, and for quasi-real-time processing that occurs at another level on the wearable device 100 itself.

[0349] For example, a local computing device may be used to perform real-time processing at the level of seconds or minutes, to know what to adjust, or to detect changes in the sleep state. Thus, it may be possible to locally generate real-time feedback for a specific stage of the user's sleep, which may be desirable to keep the latency as low as possible.

[0350] Slow-wave feedback may be executed on the wearable device 100, but the decision-making of the timing and method of calculating such feedback may be executed on another device having more processing capabilities. In one example, the sound or other stimuli used for feedback may then be uploaded to the wearable device 100.

[0351] Therefore, it may be possible to locally create timely feedback while high processing is being performed on another computing device or while being performed offline.

[0352] FIG. 31A is, in one example, a schematic top view of an electronic module 32 connected to the forehead contact portion 12 of the main body 111 of the wearable device 100. FIG. 31B is a schematic side view of the electronic module 32 connected to the forehead contact portion 12 of the main body 111 of the wearable device 100.

[0353] As shown in FIGS. 31A and 31B, the electronic module 32 may include a magnet 312 for cooperating with a corresponding magnet 310 in the main body 111 to hold the electronic module 32 with respect to the main body 111. Therefore, the electronic module 32 may be selectively removable from the wearable device 100.

[0354] The electronic module 32 may further include a spring pin 313 for providing electrical contact with a contact 320 in the main body 111. The contact 311 may further be connected to the biosignal sensors 20, 22 in the wearable device 100.

[0355] As shown in FIG. 31A, the magnet 310 and the contact 311 may be embedded in a substrate 314 made of, for example, rubber. The substrate 314 may generally be rigid so as to structurally support the electronic module 32.

[0356] In some embodiments, the contact 311 may be connected to a flexible printed circuit board 316, as shown in FIG. 31B for example.

[0357] FIG. 32 is a schematic side view of an electronic module 32 connected to a forehead contact portion 12 of a main body 111 of a wearable device 100. The electronic module 32 is configured as shown in FIGS. 31A and 31B and as described above, and may be further configured to hold the electronic module to the wearable device 100 by adding a clip 322 and engaging with a receiving hook 324. The main body 111 may also include a holding lip 325 for further fixing the electronic module 32 to the main body 111 by engaging with a corresponding lip on the electronic module 32. The protrusion 323 can be pushed to release the clip 322 from the hook 324 and remove the electronic module from the main body 111.

[0358] FIG. 33 is a schematic view of a pocket 330 in the main body 111 for holding the electronic module 32 in a region of the main body 111 that is elastic, for example, made of an elastic fabric. Electrical contacts 331 on the electronic module 32 can contact conductive ribs 332 of the main body 111. The conductive ribs 332 can be integral with the main body 111 as, for example, conductive screws, or can be other suitable conductive sensors, and can be connected to the biosignal sensors 20, 22.

[0359] Other embodiments of the electronic module 32 incorporated with the wearable device are illustrated in FIGS. 44 to 49. FIG. 44 is a perspective view of the wearable device 100 having the electronic module 32 disposed under the cover 4400 in the closed position according to one embodiment. FIG. 45 is a perspective view of the wearable device 100 having the electronic module 32 disposed under the cover 4400 in the open position according to one embodiment. FIG. 46 is a perspective view of the wearable device 100 having the electronic module 32 removed from the cover 4400 in the open position according to one embodiment. FIG. 47 is a perspective view of the wearable device 100 having the electronic module 32 disposed in the pocket 4700 according to one embodiment. FIG. 48 is a perspective view of the wearable device 100 having the electronic module 32 removed from the pocket 4700 according to one embodiment. FIG. 49 is a perspective view of the wearable device 100 having the electronic module 32 removed from the pocket 4700 and having the fabric flap 4702 according to one embodiment.

[0360] As shown in FIGS. 34A to 34C, in some embodiments, the electronic module 32 may have a conductive pin 340 with a formed fastener 344 that is extruded from the surface to contact, for example, the conductive thread 342 on the area of the body 111. The clip 346 may hold the conductive thread 342 against the conductive pin 340.

[0361] In another embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 35A and 35B, the electronic module 32 may include a recess 352 for receiving a formed contact 354 connected to the conductive thread 356 within the body 111. The clip 350 may hold the formed contact 354 within the recess 352 of the electronic module 32.

[0362] FIGS. 36 and 37 illustrate schematic side views of an embodiment of the wearable device 100 having an extendable and stretchable forehead contact portion 12 of the body 111 to which the electronic module 32 is attachable.

[0363] In this embodiment, the wearable device 100 can be worn as shown in FIG. 36, and the module is in a high position on the head to enable other wearable technologies such as a head-up display or a VR headset to be worn on the forehead. Alternatively, portion 12, together with the electronic module 32, can be folded as shown in FIG. 37 to conceal the electronic module 32.

[0364] FIG. 38 illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a wearable device 100 having an extendable and stretchable portion 12 having an arrangement or attachment location 380 for an auxiliary electrode for attachment to the body 111 for contact with the user 10. The attachment location 380 can provide an opening in which an auxiliary electrode or sensor can be disposed, and can be conductive and provide a contact surface pre-wired to the electronic module 32 for connection between the auxiliary electrode or sensor and the electronic module 32.

[0365] The auxiliary electrode can be any type of hair-penetrating sensor and can be attached to the wearable device via a snap, clamp, etc. The extendable and stretchable portion can be pulled back over the hair, providing a wide range of potential locations for the auxiliary electrode (auxiliary or additional sensors are described in more detail below).

[0366] In some embodiments, the device includes additional auxiliary sensors. The auxiliary sensors can be integrated with the electronic module 32 or, alternatively, can be integrated with the device 100. In some embodiments, the auxiliary sensors are selected from an optical heart rate sensor, a pulse oximeter sensor, a gyroscope, an accelerometer, a magnetometer, a sweat sensor, an optical sensor, an audio sensor, a nasal cannula flow sensor, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the device includes an optical heart sensor and / or a pulse oximetry sensor. In some embodiments, the optical heart rate sensor and / or the pulse oximetry sensor are located on the forehead contact portion such that they contact the forehead or the temporal region of the user's head. In some embodiments, a signal data from a gyroscope, an accelerometer, a magnetometer, or a combination thereof can be used to determine an attitude and heading reference system (AHRS) for determining the orientation of the head. Such data can be used, for example, to provide additional information when analyzing brain patterns such as sleep, activity, etc. For example, the analysis of the user's sleep can analyze the turning over in combination with the electroencephalogram signal.

[0367] In some embodiments, the main body 111 can include an opening or a mounting point for attaching auxiliary sensors and / or auxiliary electrodes, for example, for research purposes. In one example, the opening can be defined adjacent to or along the central line of the head of the user 10.

[0368] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can be provided with a USB port for attaching auxiliary components. The auxiliary components can include, for example, auxiliary sensors, auxiliary electrodes, and other auxiliary components for providing additional functions.

[0369] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can be configured to operate with a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device. In such embodiments, the nasal cannula flow sensor can provide real-time feedback to the wearable device 100, and then the wearable device 100 can transmit the feedback to the CPAP device or instruct the CPAP device to adjust its operation. The CPAP device can be configured to respond dynamically to the nasal cannula flow data. Such embodiments can utilize other feedback from the user 10 to inform the dynamic CPAP device response.

[0370] In some embodiments, the device includes an audio emitter. In some embodiments, the audio emitter is selected from a speaker, a bone conduction oscillator, a piezoelectric transducer, or a combination thereof.

[0371] In various embodiments, the wearable device 100 can include a tracker or other sensors, an input device, and an output device. In some embodiments, for example, the tracker is an inertial sensor for measuring the movement of the device 100. It detects the three-dimensional coordinates of the wearable device 100 and thus the location, orientation, or movement of its user. The tracker includes, for example, one or more accelerometers and / or gyroscopes. The wearable device 100 can include a touch sensor for receiving touch input from the user and a haptic device for providing vibration feedback and force feedback to the user.

[0372] As shown in FIG. 2J, the wearable device 100 may also include, in some embodiments, a vibration transducer 3254. The waveform used to generate the vibration can be calculated locally, for example, in the electronic module 32, as described herein, and can be modulated remotely, for example, in a local or remote computing device. Advantageously, it may be possible to achieve local rendering by external modulation and control.

[0373] In various embodiments, the wearable device 100 may include a stimulation or feedback component (such as a user effector) to vibrate or provide some audio or visual feedback to the user 10. For example, a speaker, such as a waveguide speaker, may be incorporated into the body 111 of the wearable device 100. A vibrotactile feedback source may also be incorporated into the body 111. In some embodiments, a bone conduction transducer may be implemented in the body 111.

[0374] The stimulation component may also include effectors for any of the senses, including sound, taste, smell, touch, and vision, and can provide feedback to the user.

[0375] In some embodiments, the vibration transducer 3254 is a speaker.

[0376] In some embodiments, the vibration transducer 3254 generates a physical vibration.

[0377] In some embodiments, the vibration transducer 3254 is a microphone.

[0378] In some embodiments, the vibration transducer 3254 is disposed on the body adjacent to the user's ear.

[0379] In some embodiments, the transducer is disposed on the body adjacent to the front of the user's head. In some embodiments, the transducer is disposed on the body adjacent to the user's bone, which advantageously can pick up more sound transmitted through the body compared to sound transmitted through air.

[0380] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can include a plurality of transducers for beamforming. In some embodiments, the plurality of transducers is an array of microphones for localizing sound from a direction.

[0381] As shown in FIG. 2J, in some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can include a sensor 3260 that can detect a temperature such as the temperature of the user. Some embodiments can be configured to detect relative temperature changes. Temperature detection can be performed using an infrared temperature sensor or a thermistor.

[0382] In some embodiments, the thermistor, which can be flexible, can be incorporated as a flexible PCB within the body 111 or the wearable device 100.

[0383] Such a thermistor can be used to detect relative temperature or a change in temperature. Thus, it may be possible to detect changes in the user over time. In some embodiments, it may be possible to calibrate to detect changes in an individual's absolute body temperature.

[0384] The thermistor can also be used to detect the ambient temperature in the environment.

[0385] The temperature sensing performed by the thermistor can provide useful insights regarding the user's sleep quality, for example, by correlating the temperature with the sleep quality if the user is too hot or too cold to sleep comfortably.

[0386] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 may include a vibration transducer 3254 (e.g., a microphone or other sound detection device) that can be used to measure the user's snoring or to detect sleep apnea and timestamps. In some embodiments, a bone conduction microphone may be used to detect the user's snoring. In some embodiments, the microphone mounted on the wearable device 100 is configured to focus on the sound generated from the user 10.

[0387] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 may be configured to detect when the user is snoring (e.g., via an on-board microphone or other means) and transmit a stimulus (e.g., light, sound, electric shock, or vibration) to arouse the user's consciousness. Thus, the user's snoring can be intentionally interrupted. Such interruption can be done in a way that does not significantly disrupt the user's sleep.

[0388] As shown in FIGS. 39A and 39B, in some embodiments, the wearable device 100 may include a touchpad location 390. The touchpad location 390 may be disposed between a fabric layer 394 and two foam layers 396, 398 and may include a touchpad sensor 392 connected to the electronic module 32. The touchpad sensor 392 can be used to control various settings of the wearable device 100 via the electronic module 32, such as the volume of a sound generation component.

[0389] FIG. 40 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the wearable device 100 having the touchpad location 390 of FIGS. 39A and 39B for use, for example, by the finger 400 of the user 10. As shown, the touchpad sensor 392 can bend between the foam layers.

[0390] FIG. 41 is a schematic perspective view of a wearable device 100 having an extendable and stretchable forehead contact portion 12 of a body 111 on which an organic light emitting diode (OLED) flexible array 410 can be disposed. As shown in FIG. 42, the portion 12 can be folded together with the OLED flexible array 410 for viewing by the user 10. The OLED flexible array 410 can be incorporated into the fabric of the body 111.

[0391] The OLED flexible array 410 can provide light emission to the user 10. The light emission can be used by the wearable device 100 to apply a light stimulus to the user 10. The light stimulus can be applied by a single LED, a set of LEDs providing a chromatic stimulus, the OLED flexible array 410, or a light emitter that forms an image on the retina of the user 10. The light stimulus can be applied in a dynamic manner in which the user 10 applies differential light emission across their field of view. In some embodiments, this can enable presenting a scene or visual information to the user. In some embodiments, this can be used to communicate complex information to the user. In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 includes an eye tracking sensor and the user 10 can interact with a menu presented through the OLED flexible array 410 with their eye movements (e.g., the user 10 can look at an option and blink to select it).

[0392] The dynamic light stimulation provided by the OLED flexible array 410 can be used to arouse the user 10. For example, the OLED flexible array 410 can simulate sunrise to arouse the user 10 in a gentle way. In other embodiments, when the wearable device 100 detects the user's snore, it can then apply dynamic light stimulation to arouse the user and stop the snore without interrupting sleep. In some embodiments, the OLED flexible array 410 can present a scene for training the user 10 to fall asleep. In some embodiments, the OLED flexible array 410 can present dynamic light stimulation for arousing the user 10 to start a lucid dream session while in a dreamy state. The dynamic light stimulation can be applied to the user 10 and modulated according to a protocol adjusted by an algorithm based in part on the biosignal feedback from the user 10, such as a periodic pattern of light stimulation having a frequency adjusted in relation to the user's neural oscillation pattern.

[0393] FIG. 43A illustrates a top view of the bladder 430 that can be incorporated into the body 111 of the wearable device 100, as shown in FIG. 43B. The bladder 430 can hold a gas or fluid such as air. The bladder 430 can be used to conform the wearable device 100 to different regions of the user 10's head. Adding air to a particular region can enable better contact of electrodes or conductive sensors such as the biosignal sensors 20, 22 on the user 10. The bladder 430 is controlled by a valve configuration and can be actuated by the pressure on the bladder by the user 10.

[0394] In some embodiments, expanding the air in one bladder 430 can reduce the air in another area or bladder 430.

[0395] In some embodiments, the bladder 430 can vibrate to provide a massage effect to the user 10 when the wearable device 100 is on the user 10's head.

[0396] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 may be configured for synchronization between sensors.

[0397] For example, the wearable device 100, or an associated remote or local computing device, can synchronize data collection with light entering the user's eye, such as a change in lighting, or can synchronize with the sound the user is hearing.

[0398] In another example, a microphone on a local computing device, such as the user's mobile phone, can be used to capture ambient sound and timestamps. In some embodiments, a conventional microphone can be used to capture ambient sound.

[0399] In one example, samples of the optical signal received from the optical sensor 3216 can be up to 4 kHz and can be used to synchronize visual or audio stimuli.

[0400] In some embodiments, synchronization can be time-aligned with local events such as the intensity of sound and the intensity of light.

[0401] In an exemplary use case, the wearable device 100 can be used to generate a feedback loop in which a stimulus is applied to the user, and the user's response is detected using various sensors such as the biosignal sensor 20.

[0402] In one example, a vibration sensor can be used to train the user's behavior, such as vibrating when the user is lying on their back and sleeping, or to apply an electrical stimulus.

[0403] In another use case, the wearable device 100 can be configured to control the user's environment. For example, the wearable device 100 can detect temperature using a thermistor or a suitable component and report the temperature to the device to control the indoor temperature, or detect and / or control the temperature of a pillow or bed to adjust the temperature based on which phase of sleep the user is in.

[0404] In one example, a microphone on a local computing device such as the user's mobile phone can be used, and the microphone can detect the user's snoring and trigger an interruption to try to change that habit. In another example, the environment can be adjusted to warm the bed if the user becomes uncomfortable and stops snoring.

[0405] Other changes to the user's environment can include changing the user's balance to turn over, connecting to a diffuser to change the scent in the room (e.g., a scent used to induce / enhance slow waves), connecting to an audio stimulus, or connecting to other devices to control the environment.

[0406] Thus, based on biometric signals, the wearable device 100 can be used to control the surrounding environment.

[0407] The physical form factor of the wearable device 100 can be made suitable for using it during sleep and can enable the study of how people move and biometric signal data during sleep.

[0408] In one aspect, the wearable device can be used to acquire biosignal data during sleep. For example, a baseline for what is considered "ideal" sleep can be established. By comparing the user's biosignals to the baseline, a sleep score can be established based on the deviation of the signal amplitude, or the deviation of the signal from the baseline, such as the time the signal amplitude meets the baseline threshold. In some embodiments, the biosignal data is timestamped. In some embodiments, the biosignals acquired during sleep can be used to improve the user's sleep, for example, by providing a smart wake-up function to wake the user during light sleep, or by training the user to get better sleep (such as suggesting to the user when to sleep based on drowsiness, concentration, etc.).

[0409] Using the analysis of such biosignals and other data, the sleep state or score of one or more users can be determined.

[0410] In some embodiments, a sleep model can be developed for and of an individual. Such a sleep model can enable an immediate estimation of what is happening and how it relates to the user model of the user's sleep pattern, and how the model compares to the population.

[0411] Thus, for example, it may be possible to instantaneously estimate, based on a particular user and based on the user's population, the state transition probabilities between various sleep and wake states. The determination of the intervention method can be made based on these inputs.

[0412] The direction of the intervention can be informed by established principles that are statistically related to better sleep and by methodologies that have worked in the past.

[0413] Such interventions, such as a sleep intervention protocol, can be completely data-driven (data patterns) or informed by experts, but the DIFF protocol can be tested in the context of the system's ecology and the use of the wearable device 100.

[0414] In some embodiments, a voting system for approval and disapproval can be implemented to formulate content (e.g., protocols) by a community of users.

[0415] State transitions are determined based on data such as biosignal data received from the biosignal sensor 20 and can be used to generate a sleep brain model. Such data can also generate one or more sleep brain models compared to the population.

[0416] Such a sleep brain model can also be applied to a meditation state. For example, the user may be awake or asleep, or may be awake in a meditation state.

[0417] In one embodiment, the sleep brain model can be implemented as a Markov model.

[0418] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can operate to regularize the user's sleep pattern. For example, by accessing a sleep polysomnogram, it may be possible to determine which stage of sleep the user is in.

[0419] The user may have different sleep methods and, to regularize the sleep pattern, it may be necessary to stimulate the user to extend the sleep state, prompt the user to switch the sleep state, or return to a sleep stage. Certain sleep patterns are known to be more restful and may improve performance. This may be customized for a particular user or based on the user's population.

[0420] Depending on the location where the user is moving, the intervention is not necessarily the same and can be partially based on the user, the user's history, other similar users, and can be used to regularize the sleep pattern based on stimuli shown to be effective for other users.

[0421] In one example, the state transition probability can be determined, for example, for the user's transition between states from wakefulness to n1, n2. These sleep transitions can be used as a baseline fingerprint of how the user sleeps and to develop a sleep transition model, a sleep model, or a sleep brain model. Such models can be compared with state transition models of other people and can provide an indicator of when to intervene.

[0422] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can be used to develop a sleep algorithm protocol and track the user's sleep characteristics such as rapid eye movement.

[0423] In one example, the wearable device 100 can be used as a sleep monitor or as an aid to train the user to a rhythm as a sleep aid. It becomes possible to synchronize brain waves in the range of 13 - 15 Hz, enabling the user to fall asleep faster at night and maintain some improvement in declarative memory.

[0424] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can be used for synchronization with a biological feedback system. This can examine other biometric signals (such as heart rate) as described herein, not limited to brain states.

[0425] In one example, a phase - locked loop (measured phase alignment) can be used to affect the user's state, and the phase - locked loop can be constructed with the user within the loop.

[0426] In some embodiments, the user can "sync" to sleep, or audio or other stimuli can be used to help "train" the user to sleep (e.g., by using a mantra that can be repeated).

[0427] Such synchronization can be based in part on the user's perceived body or head position or orientation.

[0428] Multiple signals (brain, heart), and then one or more of the biosignals (e.g., the joint space of heart / brain synchronization) can be measured for control / stimulation. Sensor measurements can be taken across multiple biosignals and biosignal types, not limited to just the brain, and can be, for example, respiration, heart, mouth, etc.

[0429] In one example, the user's respiration can affect the heart / brain. Thus, when synchronizing one biosignal, it can affect another biosignal, e.g., synchronizing the heart rate can also affect the brain state, e.g., affecting the heart that affects the brain using respiration.

[0430] As shown in FIG. 50, a wearable device 100, or a sensor such as one or more of the biosignal sensors 20 of the wearable device 100, for example, can communicate with a local computing device 130 via a communication protocol such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, LTE, or 5G network, or other suitable communication protocol. The local device 130 communicates with a remote computing device 150 via a network 140.

[0431] The network 140 can be a packet-switched network, for example, in the form of a LAN, WAN, public internet, virtual private network (VPN), etc.

[0432] The local computing device 130 can be, for example, a mobile device. Examples of mobile devices include, but are not limited to, mobile phones, mobile phone smartphones, wireless organizers, pagers, personal digital assistants, computers, laptops, handheld wireless communication devices, wireless-enabled notebook computers, portable gaming devices, tablet computers, or any other portable electronic device having processing and communication capabilities. In at least some embodiments, the mobile devices referred to herein can also include peripheral devices such as displays, printers, touchscreens, projectors, digital clocks, cameras, digital scanners, and other types of auxiliary devices that can communicate with another computing device, but are not limited thereto.

[0433] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 includes a communication device 3230 for transmitting data to a computing device. In some embodiments, the computing device is the local computing device 130. In some embodiments, the computing device is the remote computing device 150.

[0434] In some embodiments, the communication device 3230 communicates with a computing device over the Bluetooth communication protocol.

[0435] In some embodiments, the communication device 3230 communicates with a computing device over the Wi-Fi communication protocol.

[0436] In one example, the local computing device 130 can be a smartphone. In another example, the local computing device 130 can be a touchscreen-enabled device, while the other can be a type of communication device (e.g., a router) for connecting to other devices. As will become apparent, other types of computing devices that benefit from interconnection and interoperability can be envisioned.

[0437] The remote computing device 150 is connected to the wearable device 100 and / or the local computing device 130 via the network 140 and can be a computing device, such as a cloud computing device, that performs any of the functions described herein.

[0438] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can be configured to receive user input via the local computing device 130. In these embodiments, the user can customize the functions provided by the wearable device 100 by operating the local computing device 130. For example, the user can select the type of stimulation applied by the wearable device 100 and the events that trigger the stimulation. In some embodiments, the user can select or deselect specific functions (e.g., snore mitigation, lucid dream assistance, and sleep assistance) that can be provided by the wearable device 100. In other embodiments, the user can record words or phrases on the local computing device 130 for use as stimulation by the wearable device 100.

[0439] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can be configured to function as an interface to the local computing device 130. The local computing device 130 can be configured to respond to spontaneous user actions (e.g., eye movements) and non-spontaneous user actions (e.g., detecting when the user 10 needs to concentrate and, for example, lowering the volume on the device). In some embodiments, all modes of interfacing with the wearable device 100 can be used to interface with the local computing device 130.

[0440] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can monitor the cognitive load of the user 10. In some applications, such as sports, flying an aircraft, or performing surgery, a short-term decrease in concentration can be fatal. In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can detect when the user is engaged in an activity that requires a high cognitive load and can be configured to dynamically adjust the environment (e.g., temporarily interrupt notifications to the local computing device 130) to reduce distraction. In embodiments involving alternative or virtual reality experiences (e.g., via the wearable device 100 or the local computing device 130), the wearable device 100 can reduce distraction by adjusting the environment (e.g., by reducing the significance of visual stimuli that divert attention). In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can mask auditory stimuli that divert attention by applying noise cancellation techniques or by covering the sound (e.g., covering conversations that divert attention in ambient conversation noise).

[0441] In some embodiments, the plurality of wearable devices 100 can be configured to communicate with each other via the network 140. In such embodiments, the wearable devices 100 can be configured to synchronize users who are not in close proximity to each other. Synchronization can be achieved by applying a similar stimulation protocol that can be implemented to apply similar stimuli to different users or to achieve a synchronized target state in different users. Such embodiments can be used by long-distance couples to simulate the experience of being together. Such embodiments can optionally enable different users to communicate visually and / or verbally with each other.

[0442] In some embodiments, the plurality of wearable devices 100 can be configured to provide feedback to a group of users. These embodiments can be used to monitor the productivity or creativity of a group of users. In some embodiments, a system of wearable devices can signal to the group (e.g., via a light or audio cue or via an external device) that the group needs to take a break.

[0443] In some embodiments, the plurality of wearable devices 100 can communicate with a local computing device 130 that is providing entertainment to a group of users. The local computing device 130 can adjust the presented content based on aggregated feedback from the users. For example, a television can adjust the plot of a program based on biometric feedback from users wearing the wearable devices 100.

[0444] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can communicate the user's current state (e.g., boredom, excitement, or agitation) to other users. In some embodiments, this information can be communicated to a group (e.g., through a light display on the wearable device 100). In other embodiments where a specific member of the group is adjusting the group experience (e.g., a DJ, host, or virtual shaman), this information can be communicated only to that specific person (e.g., via the remote computing device 150).

[0445] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can be used to detect user states and predictively group users with other individuals (e.g., opening a communication channel between the user and other individuals, or placing the user in a virtual setting with other individuals). The predictive placement may be based in part on the current state of the individual and the state the individual is striving for.

[0446] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can be used to predict a learner-teacher group that will provide effective education to the learner. Such grouping can be predicted based in part on the user states of the learners and teachers, as well as their historical data based on past observations.

[0447] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can aggregate information from different users via the network 140 and provide information regarding demographic biosignal feedback data. Such feedback can be provided, for example, via the local computing device 130. For example, such a system can communicate that, on average, everyone in a city is happier today than yesterday (e.g., "NYC is happy today").

[0448] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can be implemented in a clinical environment. The wearable device 100 can provide a means for remotely monitoring a patient. Such remote monitoring can provide caregivers or physicians with detailed feedback (e.g., via a remote computing device) or a simple display of the patient's condition (e.g., an external device that provides an audible or visual cue to indicate the condition). In these embodiments, the wearable device 100 can be used for the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of disorders (e.g., multiple sclerosis, depression, anxiety, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, sleep disorders, neurotoxicity, stroke, traumatic brain injury, epilepsy). The wearable device 100 can also be used to monitor continuous states or situations (e.g., medication management, pregnancy, addiction management).

[0449] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can be configured to provide rapid and reliable emergency diagnostics to emergency medical responders. Such embodiments can operate using only the wearable device 100 and be configured to provide feedback, or can be incorporated into the medical infrastructure of a hospital or emergency system.

[0450] Some embodiments of the wearable device 100 are configured to be used with infants or young children for a child monitoring system. The system can further include an external device that can indicate to a caregiver or guardian the current state of the child user. Such an external device can provide an audible or visual indication of a sleep or well-being state (e.g., a light that brightens when the child user is sleeping well). In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can detect the sleep state of the child user and communicate with the parent when the child user is experiencing an emotional event that may precede a sleep disorder. This can inform the caregiver or guardian that the child user requires comfort or silence to avoid a sleep disorder.

[0451] Such a system can implement infant- or child-specific protocols in state analysis. Such a system can be effective in detecting infant- or child-specific disorders (e.g., sudden infant death syndrome).

[0452] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can be used to monitor a user having epilepsy. The wearable device 100 can be configured to predict when a seizure is coming and warn the user. In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can apply a stimulus to the user 10 in an attempt to prevent a seizure. In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can be configured to warn an external device (e.g., a caregiver monitoring device or a vehicle in which the user is next operating) of an impending seizure.

[0453] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can be implemented in modular therapy delivery. In these embodiments, the wearable device 100 can monitor feedback from the user 10. In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can detect when the glucose level has dropped for a user having an artificial pancreas and can adjust the user's glucose level accordingly. Such adjustment can assist in ensuring a peaceful sleep.

[0454] In a clinical environment, the wearable device 100 can communicate with a remote computing device 150 that forms a clinical system. The clinical system can further include an external medical device capable of transmitting and receiving information between the wearable device 100 and the remote computing device 150. For example, the wearable device 100 can detect feedback from the user 10 and transmit it to an external medical device that can act on this feedback. Alternatively, the external medical device can detect feedback from the user 10 and transmit this information to the wearable device 100 that can stimulate the user 10 (e.g., apply light stimulation to wake the user from a sleeping state).

[0455] In embodiments, the wearable device 100 can be configured to provide feedback to an external caregiver. Such feedback can be provided via the remote computing device 150. Alternatively, the feedback can be provided to the caregiver via light or sound emission by the wearable device 100. In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can trigger an alarm through an alert system when the user 10 is in a crisis or shows a feedback pattern indicating an impending crisis. In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can warn the caregiver when the user 10 is experiencing pain or shows feedback indicating that caregiver assistance may be needed.

[0456] The wearable device 100 can include an emergency call button. The emergency call button can warn the caregiver or the treating physician of a threat experienced by the user. The wearable device 100 can be configured to establish a communication line between the user and the caregiver or the treating physician. The emergency call button can be configured to warn an emergency service of an emergency situation.

[0457] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can be implemented in a system configured to annotate feedback data for ease of review. Such a system can further include a remote computing device 150. In these embodiments, the system can receive biometric signal feedback from the user 10 and annotate the feedback in real time. Such annotations can be driven by a static protocol or a dynamic adaptation protocol that responds to the user's biometric feedback. The system can further include a method of manual annotation to indicate when an event occurred (e.g., administration of a treatment) or when a subjective state was experienced (e.g., pain or effective treatment). In some embodiments that use a dynamic adaptation protocol, the protocol can receive and adapt to manual annotations, and in some embodiments, can learn to make such annotations automatically.

[0458] Manual annotation can be used to objectify subjective user experiences. For example, the user can annotate feedback having a subjective pain experience. A system implementing the wearable device 100 can detect and monitor biometric signal feedback from the user. The system can process and evaluate the biometric signal feedback to analyze biomarkers suitable as objective surrogates of subjective user experiences. Determination of such biomarkers can be useful in the study and / or treatment of various diseases.

[0459] The use of such a system can be effective in the treatment and monitoring of disorders that can partially characterize sleep disorders (such as multiple sclerosis, depression, anxiety, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, sleep disorders, neurotoxicity, stroke, or traumatic brain injury). Such a system can also be useful for monitoring patients with chronic pain, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or patients undergoing chemotherapy. Such a system can be useful for treatment and monitoring in obstetrics, urology, endocrinology, and other fields.

[0460] The system can experience machine learning for diagnosing various diseases based on characteristic user biosignal feedback. The system can dynamically learn the user's response to a specific stimulus and can be used in treatment by applying the stimulus to guide the user to a healthy experience (for example, applying a stimulus during sleep to interrupt disrupted sleep behavior). This system is used to monitor diseases by comparing the user state based on the user's biosignal feedback with the typical state patterns shown by others with similar states, and can warn caregivers or practitioners of states that deviate significantly. Such a system can adapt dynamically to the user and learn from the user when the wearable device 100 observes the user.

[0461] Such systems can be useful in pain relief treatment, as they can provide objective measurement criteria for the user and / or the practitioner to judge the subjective pain experienced by the user. Such insights can help determine whether and when the user should self-administer analgesics. Such systems can also connect the user to other users as a support group. Similar systems can be used for addiction management.

[0462] In some embodiments, the system can guide the user (or group of users) to a therapeutically altered conscious experience (e.g., hallucinatory experience, meditation, or mystical experience). In these embodiments, the system can enable the user to perform emotional processing in a safe and effective manner. In some embodiments, the system can monitor the user's current state based on the user's biosignal feedback and provide feedback to a human guide. In some embodiments, the guide can monitor the user 10 through a remote computing device 150. In some embodiments, the user 10 can experience the experience at home.

[0463] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can be adjusted to the user 10's base state (e.g., based on the user's meditation state). If the wearable device 100 detects that the user 10 is experiencing emotional distress that exceeds the tolerance threshold, the wearable device 100 can set this base state as the target state.

[0464] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can be programmed in consideration of a target protocol experience that can define a typical user experience when engaging in a therapeutically altered conscious experience. The target protocol can include a target user state (protocol architecture) that changes over time. This protocol can be further adapted and adjusted based on the biosignal feedback from the user while the user is engaged in a therapeutically altered conscious experience. The adaptation protocol can define what physical and / or emotional reactions from the user 10 are typical, atypical, or a cause for concern. The protocol can determine what emotional experiences are painful for the user 10 and, in some embodiments, can alert an external guide or, in some embodiments, can apply stimuli to the user 10 to bring them to the base state. In some embodiments, the representation of the protocol architecture can be communicated to the user along with an indication of where the user is along the architecture.

[0465] In embodiments where the therapeutically altered conscious experience is partially facilitated by a psychoactive therapeutic agent, the wearable device 100 can detect, based in part on the user's biosignal feedback, whether and when the user requires a higher dose of the therapeutic agent. In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can instruct an external or incorporated dosing device to increase the dose administered to the user.

[0466] In some embodiments, the wearable device 100 can record biometric signal feedback data of the user 10's therapeutically altered conscious experience. This recorded data can be selected by the user 10 for replication by the wearable device 100. For example, if the user 10 experiences a state of nirvana, the user 10 can use the recording of that session to generate a target protocol to induce future therapeutically altered conscious experiences back to the state of nirvana.

[0467] One or more of the wearable device 100, the local device 130, or the remote device 150 can implement a computing device, for example, a computing device 120 as illustrated in FIG. 51.

[0468] The systems and methods described herein can be implemented as software and / or hardware, and can be executed by one or more computing devices 120, for example, on one or more of the wearable device 100, the local computing device 130, or the remote computing device 150.

[0469] As illustrated, the computing device 120 includes one or more processors 210, a memory 220, a network controller 230, and one or more I / O interfaces 240 that communicate via a bus 250.

[0470] The processor 210 can be one or more Intel x86, Intel x64, AMD x86-64, PowerPC, ARM processors, etc.

[0471] Memory 220 may include a random access memory, a read-only memory, or a persistent storage device such as a hard disk or a solid state drive. The read-only memory or the persistent storage device is a computer-readable medium. The computer-readable medium may be organized using a file system that is controlled and managed by an operating system that manages the overall operation of the computing device.

[0472] Network controller 230 functions as a communication device for interconnecting the computing device with one or more computer networks such as, for example, a local area network (LAN) or the Internet.

[0473] One or more I / O interfaces 240 may serve to interconnect the computing device with peripheral devices such as, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a video display, etc. Such peripheral devices may include the display of device 120. Optionally, network controller 230 may be accessed via one or more I / O interfaces.

[0474] Software instructions are executed by processor 210 from a computer-readable medium. For example, the software may be loaded into random access memory from the persistent storage device of memory 220 or from one or more devices via I / O interface 240 for execution by one or more processors 210. As another example, the software may be loaded and executed directly by one or more processors 210 from the read-only memory.

[0475] Exemplary software components and data stored within memory 220 of computing device 120 may include software for applying biosignal analysis, as well as operating system (OS) software that enables basic communication and application operations associated with computing device 120, as described herein.

[0476] Any module or component exemplified herein that executes commands can include, or be capable of accessing, a computer-readable medium such as a storage medium, a computer storage medium, or a data storage device (removable and / or non-removable), such as a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a tape, and other forms of computer-readable media. It will be understood that a computer storage medium can include volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Examples of computer storage media include RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technologies, CD-ROM, digital versatile disk (DVD), Blu-ray disk or other optical storage devices, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage devices or other magnetic storage devices, or other media that can be used to store the desired information and can be accessed by an application, a module, or both. Any such computer storage medium may be part of, or accessible to and connectable to, a mobile device, a tracking module, an object tracking application, etc. Any application or module described herein can be implemented using computer-readable / executable instructions that can be stored or otherwise held by such a computer-readable medium.

[0477] Accordingly, changes, modifications, and variations can be made to particular embodiments by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the disclosure as defined only by the claims appended hereto.

[0478] In a further aspect, the present disclosure provides a system, a device, a method, and a computer programming product that implement such a method and include a non-transitory set of machine-readable instructions for use in enabling the aforementioned functionality.

[0479] Although the present disclosure has been described and illustrated in an exemplary form with a certain degree of specificity, it should be noted that the description and illustration are for illustrative purposes only. Numerous changes can be made to the details of the construction and to the combination and arrangement of components and steps. Accordingly, such changes are intended to be included within this specification, and the scope thereof is defined by the claims.

[0480] Except for the ranges explicitly recited or inherent in a described process that includes optional steps or components thereof, no particular order, sequence, or combination is intended or implied. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, wide variations are possible with respect to both the processes described herein and any systems, devices, etc., and in various circumstances, such variations can be advantageous without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, which is limited only by the claims.

[0481] Of course, the above-described embodiments are intended to be illustrative only and in no way limiting. The described embodiments are susceptible to many changes in form, arrangement of components, details of operation, and order. The present disclosure is intended to embrace all such changes within its scope as defined by the claims.

Claims

1. A wearable device, comprising: A flexible and extensible body configured to surround a part of a user; An electronic module having a concave surface between a first end and a second end opposite the first end, The first end is attachable to the flexible and extensible body at a first connection point at the first end of the concave surface using a first flexible retaining mount, enabling rotation of the flexible and extensible body relative to the electronic module about a first axis, and transmitting tension from the flexible and extensible body to the electronic module radially from the first axis; The second end is attachable to the flexible and extensible body at a second connection point which is the second end of the concave surface using a second flexible retaining mount, enabling rotation of the flexible and extensible body relative to the electronic module about a second axis, and transmitting tension from the flexible and extensible body to the electronic module radially from the second axis; A concave space defined by the concave surface and the surface of the flexible and extensible body; The electronic module; A biosignal sensor disposed on the flexible and extensible body between the first connection point and the second connection point, contacting at least a part of the part of the user and receiving a biosignal from the user; When the flexible and extensible body extends to be worn by the user with the electronic module attached, Tension is applied from the flexible and extensible body to the electronic module via the first flexible retaining mount and the second flexible retaining mount, pulling the electronic module towards the user; A part of the flexible and extensible body between the first connection point and the second connection point rotates towards the concave space and a part of the flexible and extensible body is crushed towards the concave space; The electronic module includes the biosignal sensor that presses the biosignal sensor on the flexible and extensible body against the part of the user; A wearable device, wherein the electronic module includes a processor for receiving the biosignal from the biosignal sensor.

2. The biosignal sensor is an electroencephalogram (EEG) sensor that is configured to measure a potential and generate a potential, and The wearable device according to claim 1, wherein the biosignal sensor is configured to contact at least a part of the frontal region of the user's head.

3. The wearable device according to claim 1, further comprising an additional biosignal sensor for contacting at least a part of the auricle region of the user's head, wherein the additional biosignal sensor is an electroencephalogram (EEG) sensor.

4. The wearable device according to claim 1, further comprising an electrical connection part between the electronic module and at least one of the flexible and extensible body and the biosignal sensor.

5. The wearable device according to claim 1, wherein the electronic module is curved so as to generally correspond to the user's head.

6. The wearable device according to claim 1, wherein the electronic module can be attached to the flexible and extensible body by magnetic force.

7. The wearable device according to claim 1, comprising a first magnet at the first end for attaching the electronic module to the first flexible holding mount by magnetic force and a second magnet at the second end for attaching the electronic module to the second flexible holding mount by magnetic force.

8. The wearable device according to claim 1, further comprising an optical sensor disposed on the electronic module.

9. The wearable device according to claim 8, wherein the optical sensor is for detecting compression of the body based at least in part on a detected reflection distance of light reflected by the optical sensor.

10. The wearable device according to claim 8, wherein the optical sensor detects an additional biosignal based at least in part on at least one of a detected reflection distance of light reflected by the optical sensor and a measured color and intensity.

11. The flexible and extensible body comprises a compressible area adjacent to the biosignal sensor for compressing the at least one biosignal sensor to fit the user's said part, The compressible area is shaped to fit at least a part of the user's said part, The wearable device according to claim 1, wherein the compressible region comprises a foam having a variable density.

12. The wearable device according to claim 1, further comprising at least one of a light emitter and a light receiver.

13. The wearable device according to claim 12, wherein the light receiver is disposed on the flexible and extensible body adjacent to the user's eye so as to detect light adjacent to the user's eye.

14. The wearable device according to claim 1, further comprising at least one of a speaker, a microphone, and a physical vibration generator.

15. The wearable device according to claim 14, wherein at least one of the speaker, the microphone, and the physical vibration generator is disposed on the flexible and extensible body so as to be adjacent to at least one of the user's ear, the front of the user's head, and the user's bone.

16. The wearable device according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of vibration transducers for beamforming, wherein the plurality of vibration transducers is an array of microphones for localizing sound from a certain direction.

17. The wearable device according to claim 1, further comprising at least one accelerometer for detecting the movement of the user and a thermistor for detecting a relative temperature change.

18. The wearable device according to claim 1, further comprising a communication device for transmitting data to a computing device, wherein the communication device communicates with the computing device on at least one of a Bluetooth (registered trademark) communication protocol and a Wi-Fi (registered trademark) communication protocol.

19. A wearable device, a flexible and extensible body for surrounding a part of a user, an electronic module having a concave surface, The electronic module can be attached to the flexible and extensible body at a first connection point at the first end of the concave surface by a first flexible retaining mount for rotation about a first axis, and at a second connection point which is the second end of the concave surface by a second flexible retaining mount for rotation about a second axis. When the electronic module is pulled towards the said part of the user by a force generated radially from the first axis and the second axis and attached to the flexible and extensible body, a concave space is defined by the concave surface and the surface of the flexible and extensible body. An electronic module, A biosignal sensor, which is disposed on the flexible and extensible body between the first connection point and the second connection point, contacts at least a part of the said part of the user, and receives a biosignal from the user. When the flexible and extensible body extends to be worn by the user with the electronic module attached, a part of the flexible and extensible body between the first connection point and the second connection point rotates towards the concave space, the force pulls in the electronic module, presses the biosignal sensor on the flexible and extensible body against the said part of the user, and a part of the flexible and extensible body is crushed towards the concave space. A wearable device, wherein the electronic module comprises a processor for receiving the biosignal from the biosignal sensor.

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