Wearable ECG and EDA with multi-lead and single-lead connections

Abstract

The wellness tracking device includes multiple electrodes for receiving biometric data from a user. The electrodes may receive input from the user and transmit information, such as electrical data related to the heart or skin conductance, to measure one or more physiological characteristics. The electrodes may be located within components provided by the wellness tracking device or may be electrically isolated to provide independent data acquisition for the electrodes. The placement of the electrodes may be specifically selected to provide an ergonomic position that allows the user to comfortably provide input data.

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] background Wearable electronic devices are gaining popularity among consumers. Wearable electronic devices can use a variety of sensors to track a user's activity or biometric data. The data captured from these sensors can be analyzed to provide the user with information such as estimates of daily walking distance, heart rate, and sleep duration. However, it can be difficult for users to comfortably use a wearable device to obtain these measurements, which can result in the user being unable to fully utilize the device's capabilities.

[0002] Various embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0003] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a user wearing a wearable device on a limb, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a user interacting with a wearable device on a limb, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3A] 1A-1C are schematic top views illustrating embodiments of electrode configurations for a wearable device, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3B] 1A-1C are schematic top views illustrating embodiments of electrode configurations for a wearable device, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3C] 1A-1C are schematic top views illustrating embodiments of electrode configurations for a wearable device, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3D] 1A-1C are schematic top views illustrating embodiments of electrode configurations for a wearable device, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4A] 1A-1C are schematic top views illustrating an embodiment of a user's interaction with a wearable device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4B]1A-1C are schematic top views illustrating an embodiment of a user's interaction with a wearable device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4C] 1A-1C are schematic top views illustrating an embodiment of a user's interaction with a wearable device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4D] 1A-1C are schematic top views illustrating an embodiment of a user's interaction with a wearable device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4E] 1A-1C are schematic top views illustrating an embodiment of a user's interaction with a wearable device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4F] 1A-1C are schematic top views illustrating an embodiment of a user's interaction with a wearable device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] 1 illustrates an example of a user wearing a wearable device on a limb, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a user interacting with a wearable device on a limb, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 illustrates an example process for collecting data from a wearable device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 illustrates an example process for collecting data from a wearable device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 illustrates a basic set of components of one or more devices of the present disclosure, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0004] Detailed Description In the following description, various embodiments are described. For purposes of explanation, specific configurations and details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will also be apparent to one skilled in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without the specific details. Furthermore, well-known features may be omitted or simplified so as not to obscure the described embodiments.

[0005] Systems and methods according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may overcome one or more of the aforementioned and other deficiencies encountered in conventional approaches for wearable devices, such as electronic wellness trackers. For example, in various embodiments, functionality may be integrated into the wearable device to enable electrocardiogram (ECG) and / or electrodermal activity (EDA). The wearable device may utilize either a single-lead or multi-lead approach to obtain information about the ECG and / or EDA. Single-lead and / or multi-lead may refer to multiple leads disposed on the surface of the wearable device.

[0006] Generally, ECG measurements require conductive contacts made throughout the body (e.g., throughout the heart) to measure the heart's electrical activity. As a result, two different devices and / or sensor placements are typically utilized, which can be uncomfortable for a user to wear continuously. Furthermore, incorporating the functionality into a component of a wearable device, such as a wristwatch or fitness tracker, can be challenging due to the small footprint and shielding requirements associated with including two separate leads. Furthermore, the relative size of the leads can affect the quality of the received signal. Embodiments of the present disclosure include functionality for ECG measurement integrated into a component of a wearable device, such as a wristwatch. A first contact may be located on the bottom of the wearable device, which may be the portion that directly and / or continuously contacts a user's limb, such as the wrist. In other words, the first contact may be located on the portion of the wearable device that faces the user's wrist or body. The second contact may be located along a face or bezel of the wearable device, or adjacent to the top of the wearable device (e.g., opposite the first contact). Such an arrangement may allow a user to comfortably obtain ECG measurements, for example, by placing the limb opposite the position where the wearable device is worn along the top of the wearable device.

[0007] Embodiments of the present disclosure may include a single lead or multiple leads for obtaining ECG and / or EDA measurements. For example, a single lead may be incorporated into the bezel and / or screen of a wearable device. Additionally, in embodiments, multiple leads may also be incorporated into the bezel and / or screen. For example, different regions of the bezel may include different leads that may be isolated from adjacent leads. Additionally, plated electrodes or the like may be incorporated into various components of the wearable device to provide conductive contacts that may serve as leads for obtaining various measurements.

[0008] In various embodiments, EDA measurements may be obtained using, for example, a user's finger, which may provide more accurate information than the user's arm or chest. In various embodiments, a single-lead or multi-lead portion of a wearable device may provide an area where a user can place their finger (or other part of their body) in an appropriate position to measure skin conductance and determine a value related to the user's stress level associated with the sympathetic nervous system. As described above, the leads may be positioned to provide an ergonomic position that is comfortable for the user. Thus, if the user is comfortable during the measurement or if the measurement is not bothersome to the user, the user is more likely to utilize the features of the wearable device.

[0009] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a user 100 wearing a user monitoring device 102 around the user's wrist 104. The user monitoring device 102, also referred to as a wearable or fitness tracker, may include a device worn around the chest, legs, head, or other part of the body, or a device clipped or otherwise attached to clothing worn by the user 100. The user monitoring device 102 may collectively or individually capture data related to any one or more of calorie energy expenditure, floors climbed or descended, heart rate, heart rate variability, heart rate recovery, location and / or heading (e.g., via GPS), elevation, walking speed and / or distance traveled, swimming laps, cycling distance and / or speed, blood pressure, blood glucose, skin conductance, skin temperature and / or body temperature, electromyography data, electroencephalography data, weight, body fat, respiratory rate and patterns, various body movements, and the like. Additional data may be provided from external sources, for example, a user may enter height, weight, age, stride length, or other data in a user profile on a fitness tracking website or application, and such information may be used in combination with some of the above data to perform a specific assessment or in determining user behavior, such as the user's distance traveled or calories burned. The user monitoring device may also measure or calculate metrics related to the user's surrounding environment, such as air pressure, weather conditions, light exposure, noise exposure, and magnetic fields.

[0010] In some embodiments, the user monitoring device 102 may be directly connected to the network or may be connected through an intermediate device. For example, the user monitoring device 102 may be connected to the intermediate device via a BLUETOOTH connection, which may be connected to the network via an Internet connection. In various embodiments, a user may be associated with a user account, and a user account may be associated with (i.e., signed on to) multiple different network-connected devices. In some embodiments, the additional device may provide any of the above-mentioned data, among other data, and / or receive data for various processing or analysis. The additional device may include a computer, a server, a handheld device, a climate control device, or a vehicle, among other data.

[0011] In the illustrated embodiment in which the user monitoring device 102 is worn on the wrist, the user monitoring device 102 may include a conductive base plate that is positioned against the wrist of the user 100. This conductive base plate may function as a first lead (e.g., a first electrode) for obtaining various measurement data, such as an ECG. Furthermore, in embodiments, one or more additional conductive regions (e.g., leads, electrodes) may be integrated into other regions of the user monitoring device 102. The locations of the various additional leads may be specifically selected to enable a particular type of measurement (e.g., ECG, EDA, etc.) and / or to provide an ergonomic position for the user 100 while data is collected. For example, it would be uncomfortable for a user to place the bottom of their foot on the user monitoring device 102. However, it is easy to place their other hand along the top of the user monitoring device 102, so that the user 100 may be more likely to utilize the features of the user monitoring device 102.

[0012] FIG. 1 shows a user monitoring device 102 positioned on the wrist 104 of a user's limb 106 (the user's left arm). During normal operation, the user 100 may swing the arm 106 while walking or reposition the arm 106 for various reasons, which may make it difficult to obtain various measurements, such as an ECG or EDA, without incorporating additional sensors or user instructions. For example, an ECG measurement evaluates the electrical activity of the entire heart 108 and, as a result, utilizes the contralateral limb 110, 112 to obtain measurements. However, a user may find wearing two wearable devices, such as a second watch or wrist cuff, uncomfortable and therefore may not be able to fully utilize the functionality of the user monitoring device 102. Furthermore, medical professionals may be frustrated by the user's reluctance to obtain data necessary for diagnosing or treating illnesses. Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to integrating various measurements in the user monitoring device 102, for example, by incorporating one or more leads into the user monitoring device 102.

[0013] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a wearable device 200 that can be utilized in accordance with various embodiments. In this example, the device is a smartwatch, but fitness trackers and other types of devices can be utilized as well. Additionally, while the device is shown as being worn on a user's wrist, similar to the example of FIG. 1, other types of devices can be worn on or in close proximity to other parts of the user's body, such as on a finger, ear, or around the chest. Many of these devices have at least some degree of wireless connectivity, allowing data transfer between a network-connected or computing device and the wearable device. This may take the form of a Bluetooth connection, which allows certain data to be synchronized between the user's computing device and the wearable device, or a cellular or Wi-Fi connection, which allows data to be transmitted over at least one network, such as the Internet or a cellular network, among other options.

[0014] As mentioned above, such wearable devices may provide various other types of functionality, some of which may be related to the health of the person wearing the device. One such type of functionality is related to ECG. ECG is a process that can be used to determine and / or track a person's cardiac activity over time. ECG data is often obtained by contacting conductive electrodes with the skin of the person being monitored. In the example situation of FIG. 2 , the person is wearing wearable device 200 on their arm 202 and can contact one or more fingers 204 (or the palm of their hand, etc.) with exposed electrodes on the device. In this example, the electrodes are at least part of a conductive ring 206 that is part of a housing around a display screen 208 of the wearable device, although other types and forms of electrodes may be used within the scope of various embodiments as well. In embodiments, the housing may be referred to as a bezel that forms a contour around the display screen 208. The electrodes may be connected to ECG circuitry that can detect small changes in electrical charge on the skin that change with the user's heartbeat. ECG data can be monitored over time to attempt to determine heartbeat irregularities that may indicate serious cardiac problems. Traditional ECG measurements are obtained by measuring the heart's electrical potential over a period of time (usually corresponding to several cardiac cycles). By having the user place their fingers over the exposed electrodes for the minimum time required for an ECG measurement to be taken, an application running on the wearable device can collect and analyze the ECG data and provide feedback to the user.

[0015] As previously mentioned, ECG measurements are taken across both limbs. For example, referring to FIG. 2 , a first point is along the arm 202 (e.g., via a conductor on the underside of the wearable device 200) and a second point is on a finger 204 on the opposite arm that contacts a conductor ring 206. The resulting signal assesses a circuit that includes the heart. Because the ECG is integrated into the wearable device 200, both electrodes forming a single-lead ECG sensor are integrated into the simple device, unlike conventional methods that may utilize two or more separate sensors. In various embodiments, the electrodes are electrically isolated from the device to facilitate proper function.

[0016] A user's skin impedance can reduce the reliability of data captured for ECG measurements. As a result, it is desirable to reduce skin impedance. Therefore, it is desirable to increase the contact surface area per electrode. For example, forming substantially all of the bottom surface of wearable device 200 conductive ring 206 may increase the surface area in contact with arm 202, but increasing the size of conductive ring 206 may also reduce skin impedance. Furthermore, as described above, in various embodiments, the second electrode may include one or more plated electrodes or other conductive elements integrated into display screen 208, thereby increasing the conductive surface area of ​​the second electrode.

[0017] The illustrated wearable device includes a housing 210. The housing 210 may be a multi-part component, such that the housing 210 is divided into a first portion 212 and a second portion 214. However, it should be understood that there may be additional parts. Furthermore, in embodiments, additional parts may be utilized to form one or more components. For example, the conductive ring 206 may form part of a bezel of the first portion 212. The housing 210 may house one or more electronic components that may be utilized to collect and / or analyze data as described herein. For example, the housing 210 may house appropriate circuitry for ECG and / or EDA measurements.

[0018] In various embodiments, ergonomics and user comfort are emphasized to reduce the likelihood of user error and / or encourage users to utilize the features of wearable device 200. For example, increasing the surface area of ​​the electrodes may prevent short circuits between the two electrodes, as it may be easier for the user to identify the area associated with one of the electrodes.

[0019] Additionally, to further prevent user error during electrical measurements, electrode locations may be specifically selected to provide comfort for the user to maintain a stationary posture. For example, measurement data may be acquired over a period of 60 seconds or more. Because movement can disrupt measurements, electrode locations may be selected to allow the user to maintain a posture to acquire data. The specifically selected locations may be chosen with user comfort in mind and may also provide flexibility for users to interact with the wearable device in a variety of ways. For example, different users may have conditions (e.g., arthritis, carpal tunnel, amputation, etc.) that make interacting with the device difficult, so providing a wide variety of potential interaction methods provides a broader range of use across a wider user group.

[0020] As described above, embodiments of the present disclosure may comprise a system including at least two independent, electrically isolated electrodes within a single device. For example, a first electrode may utilize a bottom surface region (not shown in FIG. 2 ) of the wearable device 200. The bottom surface region, or a portion thereof, may contact the wrist 202. As will be appreciated, the bottom surface region may have one of the largest continuous surface areas for the wearable device 200, thereby achieving the aforementioned goals of increasing surface area and reducing skin impedance. In various embodiments, the first electrode may be formed of a conductive electrode material and electrically isolated from the rest of the device by incorporating an insulating material, such as plastic, into the wearable device 200. A second electrode may utilize a top surface region, or a portion thereof, of the wearable device 200. This region may be positioned to allow a user to easily access and intuitively interact with the region. In various embodiments, the wearable device may include a display screen 208 that occupies a majority of the top surface region, as users may prefer a larger display. Thus, the second electrode may be incorporated into a bezel surrounding the display screen 208, as exemplified by the conductive ring 206. However, it should be understood that in various embodiments, at least a portion of the display screen 208 can be utilized as the second electrode in a manner that does not obscure the display, such as by coating the display screen 208 with a conductive material (e.g., indium tin oxide), locally extending the sensor so as not to obscure the display, or the like. Furthermore, in various embodiments, the screen 208 may be omitted from the wearable device 200. As a result, the upper surface may be substantially identical to the lower surface. It should be understood that the second electrode may also be composed of two separate, electrically isolated electrodes. For example, in various embodiments, a portion of the metal ring 206 may be divided into segments and isolated from different portions of the ring.

[0021] As discussed above, embodiments of the present disclosure may go beyond a configuration including a single top electrode and a single bottom electrode to include multiple leads along the wearable device (e.g., two or more leads on the top, two or more leads on the bottom, two or more leads on both the top and bottom). Adding electrodes to the top of the wearable device 200, as described below, increases the number of ECGs and provides additional wearer configurations for obtaining measurement information. By way of example, a configuration including two electrodes along the top of the wearable device allows for multiple different locations for obtaining information, such as from the right arm to the left leg, the left arm to the left leg, and extended limb leads (e.g., aVR, aVL, and aVF). These additional leads may enable screening for a wider range of non-rhythm-based conditions and may function ergonomically by, for example, allowing a user to hold the top of the device with two thumbs and press the bottom of the device against their leg.

[0022] While a single-lead ECG can provide accurate information regarding beat timing (also known as the R-R interval) and may be sufficient for diagnosing many arrhythmias, multiple leads can provide additional information for more accurate diagnosis of diseases that depend on ECG morphology. For example, sinus tachycardia is a typically faster, regular rhythm that can be diagnosed using a single lead. Some diseases can cause deviations in the electrical axis or abnormal R-wave amplitudes, which are best observed using multiple leads. The embodiments described herein may use multi-lead ECGs to examine other morphologies, such as ST elevation or depression. Additionally, as noted above, including at least two sensors on the top may also enable EDA measurements.

[0023] As described, embodiments of the present disclosure enable multiple different user configurations for obtaining measurements using two or more leads, such as for ECG or EDA. EDA is a measurement of the electrical resistance or conductance of the skin, reflecting sympathetic activation in sweat gland secretion. EDA has been used in psychological research to understand the function of the autonomic nervous system and identify acute stress events induced by physiological, mental, or cognitive stimuli. Skin conductance / resistance can be measured by injecting a small current between two electrodes in contact with the skin. EDA is often measured on the fingers, palm, or feet. However, in certain embodiments, wrist measurements may also be utilized for EDA. Utilizing a configuration with two electrodes on the top surface of a wearable device allows for EDA measurements to be obtained from the user using a simple, compact, and comfortable component.

[0024] 3A-3D are schematic top views illustrating an example 300 of a top surface 302 of a wearable device 200. In the illustrated embodiment, the top surface 302 includes a conductive ring 206 and a display screen 208. As described above, the conductive ring 206 may form at least a portion of a bezel surrounding the display screen 208 and, in various embodiments, may be divided into different sections to include one or more electrodes. The example 300 in FIG. 3A illustrates a multi-electrode configuration in which the conductive ring 206 includes a first electrode 304 and a second electrode 306. The illustrated first electrode 304 and second electrode 306 are separated from each other by a spacer 308, which may be any electrically insulating, non-conductive material, such as plastic. As a result, a user can separately activate the first electrode 304 and the second electrode 306 to obtain a variety of different measurements. 3A with first electrode 304 and second electrode 306, a user can place the fingers of their left hand on first electrode 304 and the fingers of their right hand on second electrode 306 to obtain an ECG measurement, as the circuit is completed while moving across the user's chest. Additional configurations are possible and are described in more detail herein.

[0025] 3B shows the first electrode 304 and second electrode 306 disposed on different portions of the conductive ring 206. For example, compared to the configuration of FIG. 3A, which has the first electrode 304 and second electrode 306 along the sides 310, 312, the illustrated embodiment has the first electrode 304 and second electrode 306 disposed on the top Department 314 and bottom Department 3A and 3B show a substantially symmetrical conductive ring 206, it will be appreciated that the electrodes 304, 306 may be positioned at any desired location and are not necessarily symmetrical. Additionally, the electrodes 304, 306 do not have to be the same size.

[0026] The example 300 of FIG. 3C includes four different electrodes positioned along the conductive ring 206. Of course, the inclusion of four electrodes is for illustrative purposes only, and there may be three, five, six, or any reasonable number of electrodes. In the illustrated embodiment, a first electrode 304 is disposed along the top 314, a second electrode 306 is disposed along the side 310, a third electrode 318 is disposed along the bottom 316, and a fourth electrode 320 is disposed along the side 312. Each electrode is separated from adjacent electrodes by a respective spacer 308, which is formed from a non-conductive insulating material as described above. Thus, different numbers of electrodes in various configurations may be utilized in various embodiments.

[0027] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3D , the wearable device 200 includes a conductive ring 206 that includes a first electrode 304. In other words, the first electrode 304 is a substantially continuous electrode formed within the conductive ring 206. Additionally, as described above, the display screen 208 includes a second electrode 306 in the form of a conductive film or conductive coating. In various embodiments, a spacer 308 is positioned between the bezel and the display screen 208 to electrically insulate the electrodes from one another. However, it should be understood that in embodiments in which the conductive ring 206 functions as a single electrode, the display screen 208 need not be an electrode. Similarly, in embodiments in which the display screen 208 is an electrode, the bezel need not be an electrode.

[0028] It should be understood that while various embodiments are sometimes described as having electrodes incorporated into the bezel, the conductive portions may also be coatings or films, as discussed above. For example, a portion of the screen 208 may be coated with a conductive material and utilized as an electrode. Furthermore, other insulating materials may also be incorporated to allow for any reasonable number of different electrodes on the top surface 302. It should be understood that, because it is desirable to position the electrodes in a manner that allows the user to use the wearable device 200 comfortably, components of the wearable device 200 may, among other factors, at least partially guide the final position of the electrodes. Furthermore, the size of the electrodes and spacers may be selected, among other things, based at least in part on the relative size of the wearable device 200.

[0029] 4A-4F are schematic top views illustrating an example 400 of a user's body configuration that may be utilized to obtain measurements from a wearable device, such as ECG or EDA measurements. In the illustrated embodiment, a conductive ring 206 is positioned around a display screen 208. It should be understood that the conductive ring 206 may include one or more electrodes, such as the configurations illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3D . Additionally, the display screen 208 may include electrodes, as noted in FIG. 3D . To facilitate the following discussion, the conductive ring 206 is described as including a single electrode; however, such discussion is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, and it should be understood that a similar configuration may be utilized in embodiments having two or more electrodes integrated into the top surface 302 of the wearable device 200.

[0030] The example 400 in FIG. 4A includes a wearable device 200 positioned along a user's arm 202. The arm 202 is described as a left arm for ease of explanation, but a right arm is also applicable. Furthermore, the arm 202 is used as an example, and the wearable device 200 may be positioned along the user's ankle or other limb. The top surface 302 includes a conductive ring 206, which may be referred to as a first electrode 304. The second electrode 306 in the illustrated embodiment is on the bottom surface of the wearable device 200 and is in contact with the arm 202. The user can then obtain measurement information, such as an ECG, by positioning the palm or wrist 402 of the opposite arm (e.g., the right arm in the illustrated embodiment) above the top surface 302 and activating the first electrode 304. The illustrated embodiment includes a palm 402 having a patterned, translucent configuration to reveal the top surface 302 below the palm 402. 4A can be comfortable for the user due to the large surface area made available for contact by the conductive ring 206. The user simply places their hand over the device, which is less intrusive than other methods. Furthermore, because movement may be undesirable for obtaining measurements, the illustrated configuration is ergonomically comfortable for the user, so that the user can maintain this position for a period of time (e.g., a predetermined period of time) to allow data collection.

[0031] The example 400 of FIG. 4B includes a wearable device 200 positioned along a user's arm 202 (the left arm in this example). The top surface 302 includes a conductive ring 206, which may be referred to as a first electrode 304. The second electrode 306 in the illustrated embodiment is on the bottom surface of the wearable device 200 and is in contact with the arm 202. The user can then obtain measurements, such as an ECG or EDA, by positioning two fingers 204 along the conductive ring 206. This configuration may be described as a "U" or "pinch" grip. Of course, the fingers 204 may be positioned along the sides 310, 312 in other embodiments, and positioning along the top 314 and bottom 316 is for illustrative purposes only. The illustrated embodiment includes fingers 204 with a patterned, translucent configuration to reveal the top surface 302 below the fingers 204. 4B can be comfortable for the user due to the large surface area made available for contact by the conductive ring 206. The user simply places their hand over the device and lines up their fingers with the conductive ring 206, which is less intrusive than other methods. Furthermore, due to the movement concerns noted herein, the illustrated configuration is ergonomically comfortable for the user because it provides options for how the user positions their fingers along the conductive ring, so that the user can maintain this position for a period of time (e.g., a predetermined period of time) to allow for data collection.

[0032] The example 400 of FIG. 4C includes a wearable device 200 positioned along a user's arm 202 (the left arm in this example). The top surface 302 includes a conductive ring 206, which may be referred to as a first electrode 304. The second electrode 306 in the illustrated embodiment is on the bottom surface of the wearable device 200 and contacts the arm 202. The user can then obtain measurement information, such as an ECG or EDA, by positioning the finger 204 along the conductive ring 206. Of course, the finger 204 positioned along the side 312 is for illustrative purposes only; in other embodiments, the finger 204 may be positioned along the side 310, top 314, and / or bottom 316. The illustrated embodiment includes a finger 204 with a patterned, translucent configuration to reveal the top surface 302 beneath the finger 204. As discussed above, the configuration of FIG. 4C may be comfortable for the user due to the large surface area made available for contact by the conductive ring 206. The user simply places their hand over the device and lines up their fingers with the conductive ring 206, which is less intrusive than other methods. Additionally, due to the movement concerns noted herein, the illustrated configuration is ergonomically comfortable for the user because it provides options for how the user positions their fingers along the conductive ring, so that the user can maintain this position for a period of time (e.g., a predetermined period of time) to allow for data collection.

[0033] The example 400 of FIG. 4D includes a wearable device 200 positioned along a user's arm 202 (the left arm in this example). The top surface 302 includes a conductive ring 206, which may be referred to as a first electrode 304. The second electrode 306 in the illustrated embodiment is on the bottom surface of the wearable device 200 and is in contact with the arm 202. The user can then obtain measurement information, such as an ECG or EDA, by positioning their leg 404 along the conductive ring 206. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the user can lift their right leg and place it over the conductive ring 206. Such an arrangement provides measurements of the entire chest and may also increase comfort, as the user can sit cross-legged with the wearable device 200 placed under their leg. The illustrated embodiment includes a leg 404 with a patterned, translucent configuration to reveal the top surface 302 below the leg 404. As discussed above, the configuration of FIG. 4D may be comfortable for the user due to the large surface area made available for contact by the conductive ring 206. The user may, for example, simply place their legs on the device while seated, which is less intrusive than other methods. Additionally, due to the movement concerns noted herein, the illustrated configuration is ergonomically comfortable for the user because it provides options for how the user positions their legs along the conductive ring, so that the user may maintain this position for a period of time (e.g., a predetermined period of time) to allow for data collection.

[0034] The example 400 in FIG. 4E includes a wearable device 200 positioned along a user's leg 404 (the left leg in this example). The top surface 302 includes a conductive ring 206, which may be referred to as the first electrode 304. The second electrode 306 in the illustrated embodiment is on the bottom surface of the wearable device 200 and contacts the leg 404. The user can then obtain measurement information, such as an ECG or EDA, by positioning the palm 402 along the conductive ring 206. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the user may move their right arm toward the conductive ring 206 and position their hand above the conductive ring 206. Such an arrangement provides measurements across the chest and may also enhance comfort, as the user can sit cross-legged with the wearable device 200 under their hand. The illustrated embodiment includes a palm 402 with a patterned, translucent configuration to reveal the top surface 302 below the palm 402. 4E can be comfortable for the user due to the large surface area made available for contact by the conductive ring 206. The user need only place their hand on the device while sitting comfortably. Furthermore, due to the movement concerns noted herein, the illustrated configuration is ergonomically comfortable for the user because it provides options for how the user positions their leg and then contacts the conductive ring with the opposite hand, so that the user can maintain this position for a period of time (e.g., a predetermined period of time) to allow for data collection.

[0035] The example 400 of FIG. 4F includes a wearable device 200 positioned along a user's leg 404 (the left leg in this example). The top surface 302 includes a conductive ring 206, which may be referred to as a first electrode 304. The second electrode 306 in the illustrated embodiment is on the bottom surface of the wearable device 200 and is in contact with the leg 404. Also shown in the embodiment of FIG. 4F is a third electrode 318, also positioned along the top surface 302. As described above, the third electrode 318 may be electrically isolated from the first electrode 304 and the second electrode 306. The user can then obtain measurements, such as an ECG or EDA, by positioning their finger 204 along the first electrode 304 and the third electrode 318 and holding the second electrode 306 against the leg 404. In this manner, the user can locate the wearable device and take measurements without fastening it to a limb, thereby utilizing the device's functionality without actually wearing the device. This may be advantageous for users who do not want to wear the device but still want to receive the benefits that the measurement provides. Furthermore, this configuration remains comfortable for the user, so that the user can maintain this position for a period of time (e.g., a predetermined period of time) to allow data collection.

[0036] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a person 500 illustrating potential locations for obtaining measurement data using a wearable device. In various embodiments, the wearable device includes two electrodes along the top surface and one electrode along the bottom surface, although it should be understood that there may be more or fewer electrodes on both the top and bottom surfaces. In the illustrated embodiment, the potential contact points are generalized so that the wrist location reflects the arm, the hand location reflects the palm and / or fingers, and the leg location reflects the entire leg. In the illustrated embodiment, location 502 corresponds to the right arm, location 504 corresponds to the left arm, location 506 corresponds to the right hand, location 508 corresponds to the left hand, location 510 corresponds to the right leg, and location 512 corresponds to the left leg.

[0037] In various embodiments, different measurements can be taken across the body using one or more of the positions and the wearable device. For example, the following table illustrates potential measurement configurations across the body. Of course, this table is a non-limiting example, and other configurations may be used. Furthermore, contact may be made as shown in FIGS. 4A-4E, such that contact between the right arm and left hand can include the palm of the left hand, the fingers of the left hand, or other potential configurations, among other options.

[0038] [Table 1]

[0039] Of course, this example is for illustrative purposes only, and the wearable device may be positioned in other locations, such as the neck, ear, face, scalp, and various other areas. Additionally, embodiments utilizing additional electrodes similarly have additional potential configurations as described above.

[0040] FIG. 6 is a schematic top view illustrating an example EDA data acquisition event 600 in which a wearable device 200 is positioned along an arm 202. The illustrated wearable device 200 includes a first electrode 304 and a second electrode 306 separated by a spacer 308. In operation, a user places a first finger 602 in contact with the first electrode 304 and a second finger 604 in contact with the second electrode 306. A current is introduced between the first and second electrodes 306 to measure skin conductance. As a result, measurements related to the user's EDA can be obtained using the wearable device 200. For example, the magnitude of electrical conductance may increase when a person is sweating, indicating a certain stress level. In various embodiments, the display 208 can include instructions for the user to follow, such as explaining where to position the fingers 602, 604 and / or how long to maintain the fingers 602, 604 in the appropriate position, among other instructions. The inclusion of a multi-electrode top surface allows for comfort while incorporating EDA into components provided by a wearable device. As a result, additional information can be obtained by the user to understand stress levels. In various embodiments, elevated stress levels can be monitored and paired with applications from the provider, such as breathing or meditation exercises, to reduce stress levels.

[0041] It should be appreciated that while the illustrated embodiment describes using fingers 602, 604, in various embodiments, the bottom surface of the wearable device may be utilized to obtain EDA measurements from the user's arm. For example, in embodiments, the bottom surface may include two or more electrodes.

[0042] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process 700 for obtaining physiological measurements from a user of a wearable device. It should be understood that for any process discussed herein, there may be additional, fewer, or alternative steps performed in a similar or alternative order, or in parallel, within the scope of various embodiments. In this example, a first input is received from a first electrode (702). The first electrode may be formed on the wearable device, and the input may be the result of a user engaging with the first electrode. As described, the user may contact the first electrode with a limb, such as a wrist, leg, or hand. In various embodiments, contact with the first electrode for a sufficient period of time may be considered sufficient to generate an input. For example, a momentary, accidental contact may not provide enough information to be considered an input, while a longer, intentional contact may be sufficient.

[0043] The method also includes receiving a second input from a second electrode (704). In various embodiments, the second electrode is different from the first electrode and electrically isolated from the first electrode. For example, as described above, an electrically insulating spacer may be disposed between the electrodes. In various embodiments, the second input may be from a limb of the user opposite the limb used for the first input. For example, if the first input is from the left arm, the second input may be from the right arm. As described herein, such cross-body information may be useful for ECG measurements, among other measurements.

[0044] In various embodiments, a predetermined time threshold is determined to be met (706). This time threshold may correspond to the time for receiving input data from the first electrode and the second electrode. For example, in determining an ECG measurement, the user may need to provide information (e.g., via contact with the electrodes) for a predetermined time to obtain a satisfactory amount of data. If the time is not met, the determination is not made and the wearable device including the first and second electrodes may provide a notification to the user. However, if the time threshold is met, at least one physiological characteristic for the user is determined (708). By way of example, the physiological characteristic may be an ECG measurement that measures the electrical activity of the heart. The characteristic may also be an EDA measurement. In this manner, the user may utilize a single wearable device that is a comfortable component to provide information about ECG and / or EDA measurements, among other measurements.

[0045] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process 800 for obtaining physiological measurements from a user of a wearable device. In this example, the wearable device determines 802 a first contact between a first electrode and an input source. For example, the first contact may be a user's limb, such as a wrist, contacting the first electrode. As described, in various embodiments, the first contact may be on the underside or bottom of the wearable device, such that wearing the device brings the first electrode into contact with the user. However, it should be appreciated that in various embodiments, the first contact may be activated by a leg, finger, or any other part of the user. The wearable device determines 804 whether the first contact is sufficient. For example, movement can interfere with data acquisition, so that continuous user movement can prevent data acquisition. Additionally, there may be interference, such as clothing, which can also prevent data acquisition. If the contact is insufficient, instructions to adjust the first contact are displayed 806. For example, the display screen 208 may include a message. Of course, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to displaying instructions; instructions may also be conveyed, for example, through auditory prompts, through tactile feedback.

[0046] In various embodiments, instructions for the user to engage the second electrode with the second input source are further displayed (808). As described above, the instructions may be displayed on the display screen 208 and may additionally or alternatively include audio instructions, tactile instructions, and the like. In various embodiments, the instructions may include a graphic to explain where the second electrode is located with respect to the wearable device. For example, if the second electrode is along the top surface, the instructions may convey this information (e.g., "Place your hand or wrist across the top surface"). The wearable device then determines (810) second contact between the second electrode and the second input source. As described above, the second input source may be a different limb than the limb used to make the first connection. However, in other embodiments, the second input source may also be the same limb, for example, when obtaining EDA measurements. The wearable device determines (812) whether the second contact is sufficient. If the contact is insufficient, for example, due to interference or movement, instructions to adjust the first contact are displayed (814). For example, the display screen 208 may include a message, an audible instruction, a tactile instruction, or a combination thereof.

[0047] Once contact is established, instructions to maintain contact may be displayed (816). As described above, the instructions may be accompanied by or replaced by audio or tactile instructions, etc. For example, if the user is wearing a face covering, it may not be possible to provide information to the user by displaying text instructions on the display screen 208. Therefore, audio instructions may be provided. Additionally, in embodiments, the wearable device may communicate with a consumer device that can receive and display messages to the user. Data may be acquired via the first and second electrodes (818). For example, the data may include EDA measurements, ECG measurements, or any other reasonable measurement data. For certain types of measurements, data acquisition may have a threshold or desired time. Consequently, data collection may be evaluated for completion (820), and if not, may continue, or if complete, instructions may be displayed (822). Thus, the wearable device may be utilized to acquire data utilizing at least two electrodes, both incorporated into the wearable device.

[0048] FIG. 9 illustrates a set of basic components 900 of one or more devices of the present disclosure, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. In this example, the device includes at least one processor 902 for executing instructions, which may be stored in a memory device or element 904. As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the device can include many types of memory, data storage, or computer-readable media, such as a first data storage for program instructions executed by the at least one processor 902, the same or different storage for images or data, removable memory for sharing information with other devices, and any number of communication approaches for sharing with other devices. The device may include at least one type of output device 906, such as a touchscreen, electronic ink (e-ink), organic light-emitting diode (OLED), or liquid crystal display (LCD), although devices such as servers may communicate information through other means, such as lighting and data transmission systems. The device will typically include one or more networking devices 908, such as a port, network interface card, or wireless transceiver, that enable communication over at least one network. The device may also include at least one input device 910 capable of receiving conventional input from a user. This traditional input may include, for example, push buttons, touch pads, touch screens, wheels, joysticks, keyboards, mice, trackballs, keypads, or other such devices or elements by which a user can input commands into the device. These I / O devices may even be connected by wireless infrared or Bluetooth or other links in some embodiments as well. However, in some embodiments, such devices may not include buttons at all and may be controlled solely by a combination of visual and voice commands, allowing a user to control the device without having to physically touch it.

[0049] As discussed, different approaches can be implemented in a variety of environments in accordance with the described embodiments. It should be understood that, while a web-based environment is used for illustrative purposes in some examples presented herein, different environments may be used to implement various embodiments, as appropriate. The system includes an electronic client device, which may include any suitable device operable to send and receive requests, messages, or information over an appropriate network and to communicate information back to a user of the device. Examples of such client devices include personal computers, mobile phones, handheld messaging devices, laptop computers, set-top boxes, personal data assistants, and e-book readers. The network may include any suitable network, including an intranet, the Internet, a cellular network, a local area network, or other such network, or a combination thereof. The components used in such a system may depend at least in part on the type of network and / or environment selected. Protocols and components for communicating over such networks are well known and will not be discussed in detail herein. Communication over the network may be enabled via wired or wireless connections and combinations thereof. In this example, the network includes the Internet and the environment includes a web server for receiving requests and providing content in response thereto, although for other networks, alternative devices serving similar purposes may be used, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0050] An exemplary environment includes at least one application server and a data store. It should be understood that there may be multiple application servers, tiers, or other elements, processes, or components, which may be chained or otherwise configured, that can interact to perform tasks, such as retrieving data from an appropriate data store. As used herein, the term “data store” refers to any device or combination of devices that can store, access, and retrieve data, and this may include any combination and number of data servers, databases, data storage devices, and data storage media in any standard, distributed, or clustered environment. An application server may include any suitable hardware and software for integrating with a data store as needed to run aspects of one or more applications for client devices and for handling much of the data access and business logic for the applications.

[0051] The application server, in cooperation with the data store, may provide access control services and generate content, such as text, graphics, audio, and / or video, for transmission to users, which may be provided to users by a web server in the form of HTML, XML, or other suitable structured language in this example. All request and response processing and content delivery between client devices and the application server may be handled by the web server. It should be understood that the structured code discussed herein, as discussed elsewhere herein, may execute on any suitable device or host machine, and thus a web server and an application server are not required and are merely example components. The data store may include multiple separate data tables, databases, or other data storage mechanisms and media for storing data related to particular aspects. For example, the illustrated data store includes mechanisms for storing content (e.g., production data) and user information, which may be used to provide content for the production side. The data store is also shown to include mechanisms for storing log or session data. It should be understood that there may be many other aspects that must be stored in the data store, such as page image information and access rights information, which may be stored in any of the mechanisms listed above, as appropriate, or in additional mechanisms within the data store. The data store, through its associated logic, is operable to receive instructions from the application server and, in response, retrieve, update, or otherwise process data. In one example, a user may submit a search request for a certain type of item. In this case, the data store can access user information to verify the user's identity and access catalog details to obtain information about that type of item. That information can then be returned to the user, for example, in a results list on a web page that the user can view via a browser on the user device. Information about the particular item of interest can be viewed in a dedicated page or window in the browser.

[0052] Each server typically includes an operating system that provides executable program instructions for the general management and operation of the server, and will typically include a computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed by the server's processor, enable the server to perform its intended functions. Suitable implementations of server operating systems and general functions are known or commercially available and will be readily implemented by those of skill in the art, especially in light of the disclosure herein.

[0053] In one embodiment, the environment is a distributed computing environment utilizing multiple computer systems and components interconnected through communications links, using one or more computer networks or direct connections. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that such a system may operate similarly in systems having fewer or more components than those illustrated. Accordingly, the depictions of systems herein should be considered exemplary in nature and not limiting of the scope of the present disclosure.

[0054] Various embodiments may also include one or more user computers or computing devices that may be implemented in a wide variety of operating environments and, in some cases, may be used to operate any of a number of applications. User or client devices may include any of a number of general-purpose personal computers, such as desktop or notebook computers running standard operating systems, as well as cellular, wireless, and handheld devices capable of running mobile software and supporting a number of networking and messaging protocols. Devices capable of generating events or requests may also include wearable computers (e.g., smart watches or glasses), VR headsets, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, voice command recognition systems, and the like. Such systems may also include a number of workstations running any of a variety of commercially available operating systems and other known applications for purposes such as development and database management. These devices may also include other electronic devices, such as dummy terminals, thin clients, gaming systems, and other devices capable of communicating over a network.

[0055] Most embodiments utilize at least one network familiar to those skilled in the art to support communications using any of a variety of commercially available protocols such as TCP / IP, FTP, UPnP, NFS, and CIFS. The network may be, for example, a local area network, a wide area network, a virtual private network, the Internet, an intranet, an extranet, a public switched telephone network, an infrared network, a wireless network, and any combination thereof.

[0056] In embodiments utilizing web servers, the web servers may run any of a variety of server or mid-tier applications, such as an HTTP server, an FTP server, a CGI server, a data server, a Java server, and a business application server. The server(s) may also execute programs or scripts in response to requests from user devices, such as by executing one or more web applications, which may be implemented as one or more scripts or programs written in any programming language, such as Java, C, C#, or C++, or any scripting language, such as Perl, Python, or TCL, and combinations thereof. The server(s) may also include database servers, including, but not limited to, those commercially available from Oracle, Microsoft, Sybase, IBM, and open source servers such as MySQL, Postgres, SQLite, MongoDB, and any other server capable of storing, retrieving, and accessing structured or unstructured data. The database servers may include table-based servers, document-based servers, unstructured servers, relational servers, non-relational servers, or combinations of these and / or other database servers.

[0057] The environment may include various data stores and other memory and storage media, as described above. These may reside in a variety of locations, such as on storage media local to (and / or resident on) one or more of the computers, or remotely across a network to any or all of the computers. In a particular set of embodiments, information may reside on a storage area network (SAN) familiar to those skilled in the art. Similarly, files necessary to execute functions attributed to a computer, server, or other network device may be stored locally and / or remotely, as appropriate. Where a system includes computerized devices, each such device may include hardware elements that may be electrically coupled via a bus, including, for example, at least one central processing unit (CPU), at least one input device (e.g., a mouse, keyboard, controller, touch-sensitive display element, or keypad), and at least one output device (e.g., a display device, printer, or speaker). Such systems may also include one or more storage devices, such as disk drives, optical storage devices, and solid-state storage devices such as random access memory (RAM) or read-only memory (ROM), as well as removable media devices, memory cards, flash cards, etc.

[0058] Such devices may also include computer-readable storage medium readers, communication devices (e.g., modems, network cards (wireless or wired), infrared communication devices), and working memory, as described above. The computer-readable storage medium readers may be connected to or configured to accommodate computer-readable storage media representing remote, local, fixed, and / or removable storage devices, as well as storage media for temporarily and / or more permanently storing, storing, transmitting, and retrieving computer-readable information. The systems and various devices will also typically include numerous software applications, modules, services, or other elements located within at least one working memory device, including an operating system and application programs such as client applications or web browsers. Of course, alternative embodiments may have numerous variations from those described above. For example, customized hardware may also be used, and / or particular elements may be implemented in hardware, software (including portable software such as applets), or both. Additionally, connections to other computing devices, such as network input / output devices, may be employed.

[0059] Storage media and other non-transitory computer-readable media for storing code or portions of code can include any suitable media known or used in the art, such as, for example, volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data, including, but not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disk (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassette, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage device, or any other medium that can be used to store the desired information and that can be accessed by a system device. Based on the disclosure and teachings provided herein, one skilled in the art will recognize other aspects and / or methods for implementing the various embodiments.

[0060] While various embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. Similarly, while various diagrams may depict example architectures or other configurations of the present disclosure, this is done to aid in understanding the features and functionality that may be included in the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not limited to the example architectures or configurations shown, but may be implemented using a variety of alternative architectures and configurations. Furthermore, while the present disclosure is described above in terms of various exemplary embodiments and implementations, it should be understood that various features and functions described in one or more of the individual embodiments are not limited in their applicability to the particular embodiment or embodiments described. Instead, they may be applicable, alone or in any combination, to one or more of the other embodiments of the present disclosure, regardless of whether such an embodiment is described and whether such features are presented as part of a described embodiment. Thus, the breadth and scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by any of the exemplary embodiments described above.

[0061] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) are to be given their ordinary and accustomed meanings to those skilled in the art and are not limited to a particular or special meaning unless expressly defined herein. It should be noted that the use of a particular terminology in describing a particular feature or aspect of the present disclosure should not be construed as suggesting that the terminology is herein redefined to be limited to include any particular characteristics of the feature or aspect of the present disclosure to which the terminology pertains. Terms and phrases used in this application, and variations thereof, particularly in the appended claims, should be construed as open-ended rather than limiting, unless expressly specified otherwise.As examples of the above, the term "including" should be read to mean "including without limitation," "including but not limited to," etc.; the term "comprising," as used herein, is synonymous with "including," "containing," or "characterized by," and is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps; the term "having" should be interpreted as "having at least"; the term "includes" should be interpreted as "includes but not limited to," etc. The term "example" is used to provide an illustrative example of the item being discussed, not to exhaustively or limit the listing; adjectives such as "known," "standard," "typical," and similar terms should not be construed as limiting the described items to those available in a given period or at a given time, but instead should be read as embracing known, standard, or standard technology that may be available or known at any time now or in the future; the use of terms such as "preferably," "preferred," "desired," or "desirable," and words of similar meaning, should not be understood to suggest that a particular feature is critical, essential, or even important to the structure or function of the invention, but instead should be understood as merely intended to highlight alternative or additional features that may or may not be utilized in a particular embodiment of the invention. Similarly, a group of items connected by the conjunction "and" should not be read as requiring that every single item be present in the group, but rather as "and / or" unless expressly specified otherwise. Similarly, groups of items joined by the conjunction "or" should not be construed as requiring mutual exclusivity among the groups, but rather as "and / or" unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0062] When a range of values ​​is given, it is understood that the upper and lower limits of that range, and each of the intervening values ​​between the upper and lower limits, are encompassed within an embodiment.

[0063] For the use of substantially all plural and / or singular terms herein, those skilled in the art can convert from plural to singular and / or from singular to plural as appropriate to the situation and / or application. Various singular / plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for clarity. The indefinite articles "a" or "an" do not exclude a plurality. A single processor or other unit may fulfill the functions of several items recited in the claims. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be advantageously used. Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

[0064] Those skilled in the art will further understand that if a specific number recitation is intended in an introduced claim, such intention will be explicitly recited in that claim; absent such recitation, no such intention exists. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may include the use of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more." However, the use of such phrases should not be construed as suggesting that introducing a claim recitation with the indefinite article "a" or "an" limits any particular claim that includes a claim recitation so introduced to embodiments that include only one such recitation (e.g., "a" and / or "an" should typically be construed to mean "at least one" or "one or more"); the same applies to the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations, even if the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and an indefinite article such as "a" or "an." Furthermore, even when a specific number is explicitly recited in an introduced claim recitation, those skilled in the art will understand that such a recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the mere recitation of "two recitations" without other modifiers typically means at least two recitations, or more than two recitations). Furthermore, in instances where a conventional expression similar to "at least one of A, B, and C, etc." is used, such syntax is typically intended in the sense that one skilled in the art would understand the conventional expression (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, and C" includes, but is not limited to, systems having only A, only B, only C, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and / or A, B, and C together, etc.).In instances where a conventional expression similar to "at least one of A, B, or C, etc." is used, such syntax is typically intended in the sense that one of ordinary skill in the art would understand the conventional expression (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, or C" includes, but is not limited to, systems having A only, B only, C only, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and / or A, B, and C together, etc.). Those of ordinary skill in the art will further understand that virtually any disjunctive word and / or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, wherever it appears in the specification, claims, or drawings, should be understood to consider the possibility of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase "A or B" will be understood to include the possibilities of "A" or "B" or "A and B."

[0065] All numbers expressing quantities of ingredients, reaction conditions, and the like used herein are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about." Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth herein are approximations that may vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained. At the very least, and without intending to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to any claims in any application claiming priority to this application, each numerical parameter should be construed in light of the number of significant digits and ordinary rounding approaches.

[0066] All features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying exhibits, claims, abstracts and drawings), and / or all steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations in which at least some of such features and / or steps are mutually exclusive. The disclosure is not limited to the details of any foregoing embodiment. The disclosure extends to any novel or any novel combination of features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstracts and drawings), or to any novel or any novel combination of steps of any method or process so disclosed.

[0067] Various modifications to the implementations described in this disclosure will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other implementations without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure. Thus, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the examples shown herein but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein. Particular embodiments of the present disclosure are encompassed by the set of claims set forth below or presented hereafter.

Claims

1. A data collection system integrated into a component of a wearable device, comprising: a housing forming at least a portion of the wearable device, the housing including a first portion substantially at a top region and a second portion substantially at a bottom region, the first portion and the second portion being joined together; the data collection system further comprising a plurality of electrodes for obtaining electrocardiogram (ECG) measurements and electrodermal activity (EDA) measurements; The plurality of electrodes a first electrode forming at least a portion of a bottom surface of the wearable device, the bottom surface being at least a part of the second portion; a second electrode forming at least a first portion of a top surface of the wearable device; the top surface is opposite the bottom surface and at least a portion of the second portion, the second electrode is electrically insulated from the first electrode, and the plurality of electrodes further include: a third electrode forming at least a second portion of the top surface of the wearable device, the third electrode being electrically isolated from the first electrode and the second electrode; the top surface and the bottom surface are electrically insulated from each other, the bottom surface is adapted to contact a first limb of a user while the wearable device is worn by the user, and the second electrode is positioned so as not to contact the first limb of the user when the wearable device is worn by the user; The data collection system further comprises: means for determining a first contact formed between the first electrode and a first input source; and means for determining that the first contact exceeds a first threshold, the first threshold indicating a first quality of data received from the first contact, the data collection system further comprising: means for determining a second contact formed between the second electrode and a second input source; means for outputting instructions to couple the second electrode to a second input source; and means for determining that the second contact exceeds a second threshold, the second threshold indicating a second quality of data received from the second contact, the data collection system further comprising: means for outputting an instruction to maintain the first contact and the second contact; means for obtaining data for the electrocardiogram (ECG) measurements and the electrodermal activity (EDA) measurements from data received at the first contact and the second contact.

2. The upper surface is A display screen; 10. The data collection system of claim 1, further comprising a bezel, the bezel substantially surrounding a periphery of the display screen, the bezel being electrically insulated from at least one of the display screen and the bottom surface.

3. 3. The data collection system of claim 2, wherein at least one of the second electrode and the third electrode is formed on the display screen, and the display screen is viewable through at least one of the second electrode and the third electrode.

4. The upper surface is The data collection system of claim 1 including a bezel extending around the top surface, the second electrode and the first electrode both being disposed within the bezel.

5. 5. The data collection system of claim 1, further comprising at least one spacer positioned between each of the first electrode, the second electrode, and the third electrode, the spacer electrically insulating each of the first electrode, the second electrode, and the third electrode from one another.

6. A wearable device for determining a physiological characteristic of a user, comprising: a housing including a top surface and a bottom surface, the top surface and the bottom surface being electrically insulated from each other, the bottom surface being adapted to contact a first limb of a user while being worn by the user, the physiological characteristics including an electrocardiogram (ECG) measurement and an electrodermal activity (EDA) measurement, the wearable device further comprising a plurality of electrodes for acquiring the physiological characteristics; The plurality of electrodes a first electrode on the top surface, the first electrode positioned so as not to contact the first limb of the user when the wearable device is worn by the user, the first electrode adapted to receive input from a second limb of the user, and the plurality of electrodes further comprising: a second electrode on the bottom surface, the second electrode positioned to interface directly with the first limb while the wearable device is worn by the user, the plurality of electrodes further comprising: a third electrode on at least one of the top surface or the bottom surface, the third electrode being electrically insulated from both the first electrode and the second electrode; The wearable device further comprises: means for determining a first contact formed between the first electrode and a first input source; and means for determining that the first contact exceeds a first threshold, the first threshold indicating a first quality of data received from the first contact, the wearable device further comprising: means for determining a second contact formed between the second electrode and a second input source; means for outputting instructions to couple the second electrode to a second input source; and means for determining that the second contact exceeds a second threshold, the second threshold indicating a second quality of data received from the second contact, the wearable device further comprising: means for outputting an instruction to maintain the first contact and the second contact; and means for obtaining data of the physiological characteristic from data received at the first contact and the second contact.

7. The wearable device of claim 6 , wherein the first limb is the user's arm and the second limb is one of the user's opposite arm, opposite hand, or opposite leg.

8. 8. The wearable device of claim 6 or 7, further comprising a spacer positioned between the first electrode and the second electrode and formed of a non-conductive material.

9. The wearable device according to claim 6 , wherein the third electrode is formed on the upper surface.

10. The wearable device of claim 6 , wherein the first electrode comprises a conductive coating disposed above a display screen.

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