Casing for electronic device for attachment to clothing

Abstract

A wearable device is provided, comprising: an elongated flexible strap having a plurality of female snaps attached to a bottom of the strap, the flexible strap being attached at a distal end to a garment forming an opening between the elongated flexible strap and the garment; a case comprising a flexible body having an elongated portion and a widened portion extending from the elongated portion, the flexible body configured to be inserted into the opening; a plurality of male snaps configured to connect the case to the bottom of the strap; and a cavity for holding at least one electronic device.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 086,410, filed October 1, 2020, entitled "Casing for Electronic Device for Attachment to Garment" (Attorney Docket No. HB001 / USP), the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] In some embodiments thereof, the present invention relates to a portable case configured to house an electronic device or electronic unit, and more particularly, but not exclusively, to a portable wearable protective case, e.g., a protective cover attached to clothing and configured to house one or more therapeutic electronic devices.

[0003] All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. [Background technology]

[0004] Conventional protective cases for electronic devices, such as mobile phones, are well known in the art. These cases are primarily intended to protect the electronic device from damage and facilitate portability. Some of these cases are wearable and may be referred to as "wearable technology" or "wearable devices" or simply "wearables." "Wearable technology" may be defined as electronic technology or computers embodied in clothing or accessories that can be comfortably worn on the body, such as by attaching or including a case in clothing or designated clothing. In general, wearable technology can provide a variety of functions and features, such as sensory and scanning capabilities not typically found in mobile devices and laptops, such as biofeedback and physiological function tracking.

[0005] Conventional wearable devices may be less than ideal in at least some respects. Conventional wearable devices, such as wearable therapeutic devices, are larger than ideal for use in many portable applications or on clothing, which can result in inconvenience, aesthetic issues, and poor conformability to the patient's body. Additionally, the cost of conventional wearable therapeutic devices may be higher than ideal. Conventional wearable therapeutic devices can be somewhat bulky and difficult to position or implant in various locations on the patient's body, and the device casing or electronics may require more alignment than ideal, at least in some instances.

[0006] Specifically, with respect to wearable therapeutic devices, the device must be configured to be attached to any part of the body and accordingly easily put on and taken off. Although reduced-size conventional wearable therapeutic devices have been proposed, these reduced-size conventional wearable therapeutic devices are cumbersome, inconvenient to operate, and are typically bulky when embedded in clothing and cannot be easily put on or taken off.

[0007] In light of the above, an improved wearable case for coupling electronic devices, such as therapeutic devices, that overcomes at least some of the above-mentioned shortcomings of conventional wearable devices would be beneficial. Ideally, such a wearable case would be compact, easily integrated with other devices, such as sleeves, splints, bandages, braces, or casts, sufficiently rugged, low-cost, convenient, and easy to use. Summary of the Invention

[0008] According to one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a wearable device comprising: an elongated flexible strap having a plurality of female snaps attached to a bottom of the strap, the flexible strap being attached at a distal end to a garment forming an opening between the elongated flexible strap and the garment; a case comprising a flexible body having an elongated portion and a widened portion extending from the elongated portion, the flexible body configured to be inserted into said opening; a plurality of male snaps aligned on an outer surface of the flexible body, the plurality of male snaps configured to connect the case to the bottom of the strap; and a cavity for holding at least one electronic device.

[0009] In one embodiment, the elongated flexible strap is made from a conductive material. In one embodiment, an electrically conductive elongated flexible strap is electrically connected to two or more conductive elements within the garment for transmitting electrical pulses from the electrical device to the user's body.

[0010] In one embodiment, the conductive elongated flexible strap is electrically connected at each of its distal ends to one or more conductive elements embedded in or attached to the garment for transmitting electrical pulses from the electrical device to the user's body.

[0011] In one embodiment, the conductive elements are conductive straps embedded in the garment. In one embodiment, the plurality of male snaps are configured to attach the electronic device to the case.

[0012] In one embodiment, some or all of the plurality of male snaps are made from a conductive material. In one embodiment, some or all of the plurality of female snaps are made from a conductive material. In one embodiment, some or all of the plurality of conductive male snaps are attached to the case.

[0013] In one embodiment, some or all of the plurality of conductive male snaps are attached to the case and the electronic device. In one embodiment, the electronic device comprises a printed circuit board (PCB).

[0014] In one embodiment, the PCB comprises two or more circuit board layers, the two or more circuit board layers being connected together on top of one another. In one embodiment, a plurality of male snaps are embedded in or attached to a printed circuit board (PCB).

[0015] In one embodiment, a plurality of male snaps are embedded or compressed into the top layer of two or more circuit board layers of the PCB. In one embodiment, the female snap or the male snap is configured to activate the electronic device when the female snap and the male snap are attached to one another.

[0016] In one embodiment, a plurality of male snaps are attached to the exterior surface of the case and matching female snaps of snap fasteners are attached to an interior portion of the elongated flexible strap.

[0017] In one embodiment, the wearable device comprises a housing for holding said electronic device or said PCB. In one embodiment, the PCB is configured to be compressed into the housing and the case.

[0018] In one embodiment, a housing is configured to cover or surround the PCB. In one embodiment, the wearable device includes various fastening mechanisms for connecting the case to the elongated flexible strap.

[0019] In one embodiment, the various fastening mechanisms are made of or include an electrically conductive material. In one embodiment, the case includes a strip portion extending from a distal end of the case to a center of the case, wherein the wider portion includes two portions extending from each side of the strip portion to opposite distal ends at or away from the center of the case to form two wing-shaped portions.

[0020] In one embodiment, the two airfoil-shaped portions may be curved at an angle β relative to axis X of the Cartesian XY axes. In one embodiment, the wider portion is used to indicate which side of the case should be placed up and which side down relative to the user's body and to facilitate placement on the body.

[0021] In one embodiment, the electronic device is a therapeutic electronic device. In one embodiment, the therapeutic electronic device comprises one or more waveform generators configured to generate electronic pulses to treat a user's pain.

[0022] In one embodiment, the case includes one or more openings in the top surface of the case to allow the male snaps to protrude from the PCB. In one embodiment, the male and female snaps are magnetic or include magnetic elements.

[0023] In one embodiment, the PCB includes a strain tolerant region between the snap portion and the component portion. In one embodiment, male snaps can be compressed together on the top and bottom of the circuit board and case.

[0024] In one embodiment, the male snaps may be soldered after the male snaps are mechanically compressed to one or more circuit boards. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present disclosure will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of embodiments of the present disclosure are utilized, and the accompanying drawings of which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0025] [Figure 1A] 1A-1E show perspective views of devices attached to various body parts of a user, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 1B] Same as above. [Figure 1C] Same as above. [Figure 1D] Same as above. [Figure 1E] Same as above. [Figure 1F] 1F-1I show various perspective views of a case attached to a strap using four separate snap fasteners, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 1G] Same as above. [Figure 1H] Same as above. [Figure 2A] 2A-2C show various perspective views of a case with four male snap fasteners for attaching the case to a strap, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2B] Same as above. [Figure 2C] Same as above. [Figure 2D] Same as above. [Figure 3A] 3A-3C show various perspective views of a case that does not include a snap fastener, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3B] Same as above. [Figure 3C] Same as above. [Figure 4A] 4A-4D show perspective views of a strap according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4B] Same as above. [Figure 4C] Same as above. [Figure 4D] Same as above. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 illustrates a method of coupling a case with a therapeutic electronic device to a user's clothing using a fastening mechanism, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6A] 6A-6H show another embodiment of the device with an additional snap on the bottom of the case. [Figure 6B] Same as above. [Figure 6C] Same as above. [Figure 6D] Same as above. [Figure 6E] Same as above. [Figure 6F] Same as above. [Figure 6G] Same as above. [Figure 6H] Same as above. [Figure 7A] 7A, 7B, and 7C show various perspective views of a case including a snap fastener on the bottom of the case according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7B] Same as above. [Figure 7C] Same as above. [Figure 8A] 8A, 8B, and 8C show isometric side, top, and upper side views, respectively, of a circuit board that can be placed or included within an electrical device that can be further inserted into a case, such as the case shown in FIG. 11, according to an embodiment. [Figure 8B] Same as above. [Figure 8C] Same as above. [Figure 8D] FIG. 8D shows a top isometric view of various elements of a PCB that comprises a device circuit board according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9A] 9A, 9B, and 9C show isometric top, bottom, and top views, respectively, of a circuit board according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9B] Same as above. [Figure 9C] Same as above. [Figure 10A] FIG. 10A shows a top view of a housing for holding one or more circuit boards within a case, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10B] FIG. 10B shows an isometric top view of a PCB compressed within a housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 shows a top view of a case attached to a sleeve, according to an embodiment. [Figure 12A] FIG. 12A shows a male snap and snap cap according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12B] FIG. 12B shows the inside of a male snap and snap cap according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0026] In the following description, various aspects of the present invention are described. For purposes of explanation, specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that there are other embodiments of the present invention that differ in detail without affecting the essential nature of the invention. Accordingly, the present invention is not limited by what has been shown in the drawings and described in the specification, but is limited only as set forth in the following claims, the appropriate scope of which is determined only by the broadest interpretation of the appended claims.

[0027] Currently, entrepreneurs and companies in the textile industry offer solutions related to the challenges of the textile industry, but are generally not familiar with electronic products. Meanwhile, the electronics industry has its own designated solutions and is generally not familiar with the needs and challenges of textiles. As a result, known snaps, buttons, and any fastening mechanism are used as fasteners between textiles without considering conductivity.

[0028] Therefore, mechanically and electrically connecting electrical devices and systems to textiles such as clothing (patient clothing or sportsman's clothing) presents new challenges. The configurations disclosed herein can be incorporated in one or more of a number of ways to provide an improved carrying case configured to house an electronic device or electronic unit, and more particularly, but not exclusively, for portable wearable electrical medical devices, for example, a protective cover configured to house one or more electronic devices, such as therapeutic electronic devices, using an electropharmacy case and strap attached to clothing.

[0029] Electroceuticals are a new category of therapeutic agents that target and act on the neural circuits of organs. This therapy involves mapping neural circuits and transmitting neural impulses to these specific targets. The impulses are administered via implantable devices. In cardiology, in addition to applications in pacemaking, defibrillation, and resynchronization, electroceuticals may be useful for heart failure, atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease, myocarditis, resistant hypertension, atrial and ventricular tachyarrhythmias, pulseless electrical activity, and refractory angina.

[0030] One or more components of the configurations disclosed herein can be combined with one another in many ways. The devices and methods described herein include a wearable device housing an electronic and / or electrical device, such as a therapeutic electrical or electropharmaceutical device, that includes an elongated flexible strap, such as a conductive flexible strap, configured to be attached to a user's clothing, and a case configured to attach to the strap with one or more fastening mechanisms, such as a conductive fastening mechanism, the case including a flexible body having a narrow elongated portion and a plate portion extending from the narrow elongated portion, and a cavity for holding the electronic and / or electrical device, such as a therapeutic device.

[0031] Specifically, according to some embodiments, devices and methods are provided for attaching an active medical device, such as a therapy device, to a user's clothing. More specifically, the wearable device comprises an elongated flexible strap having one or more buttons, e.g., a conductive snap fastener of four female conductive snaps, attached in a row to a bottom of the conductive strap, the elongated flexible strap being attachable at a distal end to an article of clothing, e.g., a user's clothing, such that an opening can be formed between the elongated flexible strap and the clothing; a case having a flexible body having an elongated portion and a wider portion extending from the elongated portion, the flexible body configured to be inserted into the opening; one or more buttons, e.g., a conductive snap fastener of four male conductive snaps, arranged in a row on an outer surface of the flexible body, the four male snaps configured to connect (e.g., electrically connect) the case to, e.g., the bottom of the strap; and a cavity for holding at least one electronic or electrical device, such as an active medical device, e.g., a treatment device.

[0032] Advantageously, the location of the snaps and elongated flexible straps connected to one another using one or more snaps not only makes the wearable device more aesthetically pleasing, but also more practical, since it is easier for the user to align the snaps and prevent them from shifting when attaching to clothing. Furthermore, devices according to embodiments including specific structures and snaps provide an easier and faster way to attach electronic / electrical devices to clothing, for example, by pressing down on the smooth backside of the female snaps on the strap while the male snaps are attached to the case (this is not noticeable when attached to the user without the device, as the snaps are female).

[0033] According to some embodiments, an electronic / electrical device, such as a therapeutic electronic device, can be placed and / or embedded in a wearable case. The wearable cases disclosed herein include any type of case, protective case, cover, protective cover, enclosure, protective enclosure, shell, protective shell, impact resistant case, shockproof case, waterproof case, water resistant case, and / or combinations thereof.

[0034] Systems, devices, and methods according to embodiments overcome the following challenges associated with mechanically and electrically connecting electrical devices to textiles such as clothing: · How to reliably line up elastic woven snaps with non-elastic snaps on the device.

[0035] · A method of attaching magnetic snaps to a PCB so components and solder will adhere to it. A way to protect PCBs from strong push-pull snap connection vibrations. How to ensure that the mechanical connection is strong enough to prevent the device from falling off.

[0036] How to ensure a stable electrical connection when solder snaps alone would cause the PCB to peel off. When using flexible PCBs, the mechanical force may lack the opposing force to unsnap.

[0037] To overcome these challenges, systems and methods according to embodiments include a case having a cavity for housing an electronic device, the electronic device including one or more rigid-flex circuit boards, and the case and / or the rigid-flex circuit boards including a snap fastener mechanism including one or more snap fasteners (e.g., snaps) and components.

[0038] In one embodiment, the rigid-flex circuit board includes a strain-tolerant region between the snap portion and the component portion. In one embodiment, the snap comprises snap portions that can be compressed above and below the circuit board.

[0039] In one embodiment, snaps can be compressed together on the top and bottom of the circuit board and case. In one embodiment, the snaps may be mechanically compressed onto one or more circuit boards and then soldered.

[0040] As used herein, like characters refer to like elements. 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, and 1F show perspective views of device 100, such as a wearable device, attached to various body parts of user 101 by attaching device 100 to the respective user's clothing, such as a shirt or pants, according to an embodiment. Specifically, FIGS. 1A and 1B show top and side views, respectively, of device 100 attached to sleeve 102 and accordingly fastened to the arm of user 101, FIGS. 1C and 1D show perspective side views of device 100 attached to the user's pants 104 and accordingly fastened to the user's leg, and FIG. 1E shows a perspective side view of device 100 attached to the side of the user's undershirt 105 and accordingly fastened to the user's torso.

[0041] According to an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1A, device 100 may be modular, including two main sub-units, for example, case 110 and one or more straps, such as single strap 120.

[0042] According to an embodiment, device 100 is contoured to the body of user 101, allowing case 110 to be comfortably and easily attached to the user's clothing, such as a shirt, pants, etc.

[0043] According to an embodiment, the case 110 may include or be embedded with one or more electronic devices or elements, such as one or more therapeutic electrical or electropharmaceutical devices, that are attached to the user's clothing and configured to treat the cause of the user's pain by accelerating the healing of the user's cells and tissues.

[0044] According to an embodiment, case 110 may be any casing, cover that at least partially and / or completely covers one or more electronic devices or elements and protects one or more electronic devices or elements placed in case 110.

[0045] According to an embodiment, strap 120 is configured and enabled to couple case 110 to an outer surface of a user's clothing 130 using one or more fastening mechanisms, such as one or more buttons or snap fasteners 121. One or more buttons or snap fasteners 121 are configured and enabled to fasten the outer surface of case 110 to the bottom surface of strap 120 and the bottom surface of case 110 to clothing 130 (e.g., sleeve 102).

[0046] According to one embodiment, one or more straps, e.g., a single strap 120, may be embedded in and / or attached to and / or sewn to the garment 130. For example, the strap 120 may be sewn and / or fastened at its distal ends 122 and 124 to the garment 130 using any known attachment method, forming an opening under the loose strap 120 to allow the case 110 to be inserted under the strap 120 and over the garment, and further fastening mechanisms such as one or more snap fasteners 121 to fasten the case 110 to the strap 120. Thus, the case 110 may be fully secured and fastened to the user's garment 130, e.g., at its center and / or near the case center (e.g., 1, 2, 3, or more cm from the case center), over any selected body part, arm, leg, torso, etc.

[0047] Specifically, as shown in Figures 1A to 1E, case 110 can be inserted under strap 120 and the outer surface of case 110, including one or more studs (e.g., male snaps) of one or more snap fasteners 121, can be fastened to matching sockets (e.g., female snaps) of snap fasteners 121 located on the outer portion of strap 120.

[0048] Advantageously, in operation, case 110 can be easily attached to or removed from a patient's (e.g., user 101) clothing, for example, using one hand. For example, the patient's palm may slide under case 110 with the back of the hand resting against the patient's body, such that the patient's thumb presses against a snap (e.g., a male snap) on strap 120 to hold case 110 in position between strap 120 and sleeve 102 on the user's 101 body.

[0049] 1F, 1G, and 1H show various perspective views of case 110 attached to strap 120 using, for example, four separate snap fasteners, according to an embodiment. Specifically, FIG. 1F shows an isometric top view of device 100, FIG. 1G shows an isometric back view of device 100, and FIG. 1H shows an isometric side view of device 100.

[0050] According to one embodiment, elongated strap 120 is a flexible strap made of a conductive material and / or includes conductive elements configured and enabled to electrically transmit electrical pulses. The conductive, elongated, flexible strap is electrically connected to two or more conductive elements within the garment to transmit the electrical pulses from the electrical device to the user's body. For example, conductive, elongated, flexible strap 124 is electrically connected at each of its distal ends 124 and 122 to one or more conductive elements embedded in or attached to the garment to transmit the electrical pulses from the electrical device to the user's body.

[0051] In some cases, one or more snap fasteners 121 (e.g., female snaps) may be conductive and electrically connected via one or more wires to the conductive elongated flexible strap 120 and to one or more conductive elastic straps embedded in the garment. Examples of conductive elastic straps may be sleeve and straps 1122', 1124', 1126', and 1128' embedded in sleeve 1110, as shown in FIG. 11. It is emphasized that device 11 may be attached to any part of the user's garment and body.

[0052] 2A, 2B, and 2C illustrate various perspective isometric views of case 110, according to an embodiment, including one or more buttons, such as four male snap fasteners 242, 244, 246, and 248, for attaching case 110 to strap 120. Specifically, according to an embodiment, FIG. 2A illustrates an isometric top side view of case 110, FIG. 2B illustrates an isometric back view of case 110, and FIG. 2C illustrates an isometric top view of case 110.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the case 110 can be configured in a flexible manner so that it can mold to the user's body, for example, the legs, arms, shoulders, or torso, as shown in FIGS. 1A-1D.

[0054] According to embodiments, the case 110 may be biocompatible. For example, the case may be made of and / or have a shape that is non-traumatic to living tissue and does not have a toxic or harmful effect on biological functions. According to some embodiments, the case is made of a soft plastic, a biocompatible soft plastic, a sustainable soft plastic, or a combination thereof.

[0055] According to an embodiment, the case 110 is sturdy and will not break if dropped. According to embodiments, case 110 is soft and comfortable against the user's body, allowing for normal unhindered activity throughout the day, and is especially comfortable while sleeping.

[0056] According to an embodiment, the case 110 is water resistant. According to the embodiment, the case 110 is lightweight, easy to grip in the hand, and comfortable, allowing the patient's body to function normally while wearing the case 110, such as walking, running, or moving their arms or torso.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the case 110 may be made from a single solid piece of material. According to one embodiment, the case 110 may be a non-conductive silicone case. According to other embodiments, case 110 can be made from a variety of different materials, such as flexible and / or rigid materials, connected together using adhesive materials or any bonding technique known in the art.

[0058] According to one embodiment, case 110 may be flexible and made of silicone. In some cases, fastening mechanism 240, including one or more snap fasteners, such as four male snap fasteners 242, 244, 246, and 248, may be conductive snaps and may be integrated into a non-conductive silicone case, such as case 110. In some cases, the fastening mechanism may be embedded in and / or attached to a circuit board, such as circuit board 800 or circuit board 900 shown in FIGS. 8A and 9A. In some cases, the snap fasteners may be compressed onto a PCB, such as PCB 222, and further compressed onto the case, such that the case and snaps become one unit.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the case 110 can be made of any material or combination of materials, including, for example, one or more of plastic, silicone, elastomer, metal, glass, ceramic, wood, and / or combinations thereof.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the case 110 may be a flexible case such as Ninjaflex TPU - specially formulated thermoplastic polyurethane. According to one embodiment, a flexible case such as case 110 may be made of silicone. In one embodiment, a conductive snap made of silicone can be integrated with a non-conductive silicone case and compressed around the PCB, so that the case and snap become one unit.

[0061] According to one embodiment, as shown in Figures 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D, the case 110 includes a housing body 215 having openings 216 and cavities 218 configured and enabled to receive and hold one or more electronic devices and / or electronic elements and / or electronic units such as one or more circuit boards, e.g., printed circuit boards (PCBs) 222.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the case 110 includes a fastening mechanism 240 that includes one or more snap fasteners, such as four male snap fasteners 242, 244, 246, 248 aligned parallel on the outer surface of the case 110 with respect to the X axis of the Cartesian XY axes, allowing the case 110 to be easily and comfortably secured to the strap 120.

[0063] As shown in Figures 1A to 1H and 4A to 4D, respectively, four female snap fasteners are aligned parallel to the X axis of the Cartesian XY axes on the interior (e.g., garment-facing) portion of strap 120, allowing case 110 to be easily fastened to strap 120 and further to a user's clothing (e.g., sleeve 102, pants, etc.).

[0064] According to some embodiments, the case and strap can be coupled to a variety of different fabrics, such as the knee portion of the user's pants or the hand sleeve portion of a shirt, and various locations on the user's body.

[0065] According to some embodiments, the snap fastener is circular. Various other shapes, modifications, and variations of the snap fasteners may be made as would be apparent to one skilled in the art. For example, the male snap fasteners may be attached to the strap 120 or to the garment (e.g., the user's garment, such as the user's sleeve as shown in FIGS. 7A and 11), and the female snap fasteners may be correspondingly attached to the case.

[0066] According to some embodiments, fastening mechanism 240 or 840 may be magnetic or may include magnetic materials or elements, for example, to allow for guidance, positioning, and attachment of case 110 or case 710 to clothing. Specifically, some or all of the female snaps and / or male snaps may be magnetic or may include magnetic elements.

[0067] According to some embodiments, the fastening mechanism is configured to allow both mechanical and electrical connection between the case and the garment. For example, fastening mechanism 240 (e.g., four male snaps, such as magnetic snaps) can be soldered and / or compressed to a circuit board of a PCB, such as PCB 222, within the electronic device, as shown in FIG. 2B, and protrude through case 110 to allow connection with four corresponding snaps located on the garment / elastic strap harness. According to some embodiments, PCB 222 includes strain-tolerant regions between the snap portions and the component portions.

[0068] According to some embodiments, the fastening mechanism 240 (e.g., one or more snaps) may be wired to the PCB 222 via one or more wires embedded in the case 110, for example, as shown in FIG. 8A or FIG. 9A.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the fastening mechanism 240 (e.g., one or more female / male snaps on the case / strap) may be made of or include a conductive material and may be embedded and / or connected directly to the PCB 222 or any electronic device or element embedded in the case.

[0070] According to some embodiments, the fastening mechanism 240 (e.g., one or more snaps) clamps and connects directly to an electronic device, such as a PCB 222, through the case to hold and / or maintain the PCB in place and fastened to the case, for example, as shown in Figures 8A-8D and 9A.

[0071] According to some embodiments, one or more 3D printing methods and systems can be used to print conductive snaps as part of the case 110 and compress the PCB 222 through the conductive portions of the fastening mechanism on the case.

[0072] According to some embodiments, PCB 222 may be a flexible PCB or a rigid PCB 222. Preferably, PCB 222 is a flexible PCB, and fastening mechanism 240 (e.g., one or more female / male snaps on a case / strap) is compressed above and below the PCB. It is emphasized that compressing snaps, such as male snaps, onto flexible PCB 222 is possible due to the flexibility of the PCB; however, if the PCB is rigid, compressing the snaps may cause the PCB to crack, so compression is performed with the flexible PCB. For example, FIG. 12A shows male snaps 1201 and snap caps 1202, and FIG. 12B shows the insides of male snaps 1201 and snap caps 1202. According to embodiments, male snaps 1201 and snap caps 1202 may be compressed onto a PCB, such as PCB 222, from both sides of the PCB, respectively. Snaps, such as male snaps 1201 and / or snap caps 1202, may be conductive and / or magnetic.

[0073] In some cases, the electronic elements and / or electronic units and / or electronic devices are configured to generate electronic pulses to treat a user's pain using one or more waveform generators, devices and / or methods, for example as shown in FIG. 11 .

[0074] For example, the case 110 may include embedded wiring and / or PCB 222 and / or other electronic devices to deliver antioxidant microcurrent electricity delivered to human skin at strategic acupuncture points using an integrated constant voltage, constant current, variable voltage, or variable current circuit. In some cases, the PCB may be electrically connected via one or more conductive straps embedded in clothing that includes the electronic devices to deliver antioxidant microcurrent electricity to human skin.

[0075] In some cases, PCB 222 can include one or more waveforms for generating transcutaneous and transdermal applications for delivering electrons in microdoses for health. Examples of such waveform generator devices and methods are described in PCT Publication No. WO2020021526, entitled "Regulated Current Power Supply," and U.S. Patent No. 8,825,174, entitled "Therapeutic Electrical Antioxidant Garment Apparatus and Method," the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0076] In some cases, PCB 222 may include or be connected to one or more waveform generators for synthesizing arbitrary periodic waveforms at specified frequencies. The waveform generator may include a memory block having a predetermined fixed memory size, a programmable addressing device including a programmed output loop, and a digital-to-analog converter. The programmable addressing device is configured to synthesize arbitrary periodic waveforms at specified frequencies. Specifically, the method includes the steps of providing a memory block having a predetermined fixed memory size, the memory block containing data values ​​for one cycle of an arbitrary periodic waveform, the memory being accessed via a memory block index; providing a program output loop for outputting data values ​​from the memory block according to the memory block index; determining a loop execution time for a single execution of the program output loop; providing an iteration counter having an iteration counter value for counting the number of executions of the program output loop; initializing the iteration counter value to zero; executing the program output loop; calculating the memory block index as an integer transform of the product of the iteration counter value, the fixed memory size, the loop execution time, and the specified frequency; retrieving waveform data from the memory block according to the memory block index; outputting the retrieved waveform data to a digital-to-analog converter; and incrementing the iteration counter value.

[0077] In some cases, PCB222 may comprise or be a regulated current source device for providing a regulated current to a resistive load, the regulated current source comprising: a primary electrical energy source providing an input voltage; a voltage booster receiving the input voltage and providing an adjustable voltage from a power cut-off point, the adjustable voltage being controllable via a control signal at a control point of the voltage booster; a current regulator adjusting the current through the resistive load according to a predetermined regulated load current; and a controller measuring a voltage drop across the current regulator and controlling the voltage booster via the control point in response to the voltage drop.

[0078] According to embodiments, case 110 and strap 120 can be designed and shaped to be easily and comfortably gripped by hand. According to one embodiment, case 110 can be aerodynamically shaped, e.g., having an “aircraft” shape. For example, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2C , case 110 can include a narrow portion 255 and a wide portion 257. Specifically, case 110 can have an “aerodynamic” shape that includes a strip 252 extending from a distal end 259 to the center of case 110 and two portions 254 and 256 extending from each side of strip 252. In some embodiments, portions 254 and 256 can extend from or away from (e.g., proximate to) the center to opposite distal ends 261 of strip 252.

[0079] According to some embodiments, each of the two portions 254 and 256 may be shaped as a "wing," where each wing is shaped as a triangle (e.g., in the form of a delta wing) having an angle α with respect to axis X of the Cartesian XY axes. In some cases, angle α may be in the range of 30 to 60 degrees.

[0080] In some cases, the nub 252 may have an elongated planar portion 253 that may be angled laterally along the planar portion of the nub 252 and may extend from or away from the center to the distal end 261 of the nub 252 to form "wing" shaped portions 254 and 256.

[0081] According to some embodiments, the two "wing"-shaped portions 254 and 256 may be curved at an angle β relative to the axis X of the Cartesian XY axis. In some cases, the angle β may range from 0 to 90 degrees. Advantageously, the curved, elongated shape of the case 110 allows the case 110 to perfectly conform to various body parts of a patient. For example, as shown in FIG. 1A , the bottom of the case naturally conforms to the curves of the patient's arm, leg, or torso, allowing optimal and comfortable contact between the case 110 and the user's body while maintaining aerodynamic forces and avoiding protrusion of the case 110 from the user's body.

[0082] According to an embodiment, the wide portion 257 (e.g., the two "wing" shaped portions 254 and 256) can be used to indicate which side of the case 110 should be up and which side should be down relative to the user's body parts for easier positioning on the body, as shown in Figures 1A-1D. For example, as shown in Figure 1A, the case 110 is attached to the patient with the narrow portion positioned below the wide portion along the patient's arm.

[0083] According to one embodiment, case 110 is designed to protrude on the side of strap 120 to reveal one or more elements embedded in or attached to case 110, such as a logo on case 110.

[0084] According to some embodiments, the case 110 can include an electronic device 140 for generating and transmitting electrical impulses from the device 240 (e.g., and the case) to the user's body via one or more conductive channels and / or discreetly placed electrodes on the clothing.

[0085] According to an embodiment, device 240 can be embedded within case 110, for example, over case cavity 218. In some cases, device 240 (e.g., and PCB 222) can be further attached (e.g., compressed) to a housing, such as housing 1000 of FIG. 10A (or a housing having another shape), that surrounds the device and has the shape and size of cavity 218.

[0086] According to an embodiment, various components of electronic device 240 may be implemented on one or more circuit boards, such as PCB 222. In some cases, the electronic device 240 may include or connect a single port 224 (e.g., USB-C) to a dedicated connection, such as one or more ports or interface connections, for charging or for use with a cable that terminates in an electrode, as shown in FIG. 2B.

[0087] In some cases, electronic device 240 may include a communications module configured to communicate with servers and / or other external modules, devices and systems such as one or more speakers and / or displays, and / or a user's electronic devices and apps, such as a user's mobile phone and / or smartphone and / or phone app, to provide information regarding the status of the device. For example, electronic device 240 may include wireless communications circuitry 226 coupled to PCB 222 within the housing and communicating with a remote server. Wireless communications circuitry 226 may include one or more receivers and transmitters and / or transceivers for receiving / transmitting data (e.g., captured images and / or sensory data) to a remote module, such as a remote server.

[0088] In some cases, the communications circuitry 226 is configured to transmit the collected data to a cloud-based server configured to analyze the data transmitted from the communications device, and the device is configured to receive analysis results from the cloud-based server and present the analysis results to the user.

[0089] According to embodiments, device 240 may include one or more indicators, such as a vibration indicator and / or a light indicator, configured and enabled to indicate the status of device 100 (e.g., whether the device is in on or off mode) and that therapy is being provided. Detailed examples of electronic devices are provided below with respect to Figures 8A-8D and 9A-9C herein.

[0090] 3A-3C show various perspective views of a case 310 that does not include snap fasteners, according to an embodiment. FIG. 3A shows an isometric top view of the case 310, FIG. 3B shows an isometric top view of the case 310, and FIG. 3C shows an isometric back view of the case 310.

[0091] Figures 4A, 4B, 4C, and 4D show perspective views of a strap 120 with one or more fastening mechanisms, such as one or more buttons or snap fasteners 421, according to an embodiment. Specifically, Figure 4A shows an isometric view of the outer surface of the strap, and Figure 4B shows an isometric view of the inner surface of the strap. Figure 4C shows an isometric side view of strap 120, and Figure 4D shows an isometric top view of the strap, according to an embodiment.

[0092] In some embodiments, the straps may be made of an elongated flexible fabric, such as a stretch fabric (e.g., polyester). In some cases, the straps are knitted or woven from nylon, polyester, spandex, lycra, or blends.

[0093] In some cases, as described herein above, strap 120 (eg, an elongated flexible strap) is made of a conductive material. In some cases, a conductive, elongated, flexible strap (e.g., strap 120) is electrically connected to two or more conductive elements within the garment to transmit electrical pulses from the electrical device to the user's body. For example, the conductive, elongated, flexible strap is electrically connected at each of its distal ends to one or more conductive elements embedded in or attached to the garment to transmit electrical pulses from the electrical device to the user's body.

[0094] According to one embodiment, a plurality of snaps, such as four male snaps 422, 424, 426, and 428, are positioned on the exterior 401 of the strap 120, as shown in FIG. 4A, while four female snaps 422′, 424′, 426′, and 428′ are attached to the interior 402 of the strap 120, respectively, on the reverse side of the strap 120, as shown in FIG. 4B. In operation, the female snaps 422′, 424′, 426′, and 428′ fasten to male snaps located on the exterior surface of the case 110, respectively. Advantageously, the female snaps 422′, 424′, 426′, and 428′ of the strap 120 allow for comfortable wear, as there are no male protrusions protruding from the patient's body. Additionally, the reverse sides of the female snaps are aesthetically rounded, forming a unique vertical alignment that facilitates matching all four connections. In some cases, the female snaps are conductive and / or include conductive elements connected to straps, which in turn are connected to conductive straps on the garment (e.g., straps 1122′, 1124′, 11226′, 1128′, etc., as shown in FIG. 11 ).

[0095] Referring now to FIG. 5, a method 500 for coupling a case with an electronic device, such as a therapeutic electronic device, to a user's garment using a fastening mechanism is shown, according to an embodiment. Step 510 includes attaching a flexible strap, such as strap 120, at its distal end to the garment to form an opening between the flexible strap and the garment. Step 520 includes inserting a case, such as case 110, into the opening formed on the garment, e.g., under the flexible strap. Step 530 includes fastening the case to the strap using the fastening mechanism, e.g., by snapping a male snap on the case to a female snap on the strap. Step 540 includes activating the electronic device, such as the therapeutic electronic device. In some cases, the therapeutic electronic device may be activated simultaneously when the case is fastened to the flexible strap (because the case / strap / snap are conductive and in electrical communication with each other).

[0096] In one embodiment, the strap includes a flexible PCB sewn to the inside. In another embodiment, the case includes one or more removable batteries connected via a USB-C connection.

[0097] 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, 6E, 6F, 6G, and 6H show other embodiments of case 610 and strap 620 with additional fastening mechanisms 625. For example, the fastening mechanism may be one or more buttons, such as one or more snap fasteners, located on the bottom of case 610. For example, case 610 may include four male snaps (e.g., snaps 622, 624, 626, 628) or four female snaps on the bottom of the case, allowing case 610 to be connected to a user's clothing via four respective male / female snaps attached to the clothing.

[0098] According to some embodiments, the fastening mechanism 630 (e.g., four male snaps) on the top of the case 610 serves as a mechanical connection for attaching the case to four snaps (e.g., female snaps) on the strap 620, while the snaps on the bottom of the case (e.g., four female / male snaps on the bottom of the device case) serve to electronically connect the electronic device to the garment in a row opposite the male snaps on the top of the case and are used to mechanically and / or magnetically connect the case to the respective four male snaps located on the exterior of the e-textile garment. An e-textile is a textile that is or is part of electronic components that create a system capable of sensing, heating, lighting, or transmitting data. According to embodiments, an e-textile with connected bottom snaps transmits current from the electronic device to the body. The current flows through the snaps (e.g., as shown in FIG. 11 ), e.g., from the conductive elastic strap of the e-textile to the conductive electrodes of the e-textile to the body.

[0099] In other words, the snaps on the bottom of the case act as an electrical connection between the device and the respective male and female snaps on the textile garment via the female and male snaps on the case, seamlessly transmitting electrical impulses from the device (e.g., case) through the conductive channels in the garment to the four discreetly placed electrodes on the garment. In some embodiments, the garment is preferably knitted, not woven, to allow for stretchability. The garment may be an elbow, knee, or ankle sleeve, a body shirt, socks, or a headband / cover, etc., as needed for the desired transmission of electrical impulses.

[0100] Specifically, FIG. 6B shows an isometric top and bottom view of case 620 with snaps on the top and bottom of case 610. FIG. 6C shows a side view of case 610 with snaps on the top and bottom of case 620.

[0101] FIG. 6D shows a case with snaps on the top instead of the bottom, according to an embodiment. FIG. 6E shows a case and strap according to an embodiment in which a set of snaps 630 are included on the strap connected to the top of the case 610 and an additional snap 625 on the bottom of the case 610 is configured to connect to clothing.

[0102] Figure 6F shows a side view of a case with snaps only on the top surface, Figure 6G shows a side view of a case with snaps (male / female snaps) on both sides, e.g., the top and bottom of the case, according to an embodiment, and Figure 6H shows additional views of the case, according to an embodiment.

[0103] 7A, 7B, and 7C show various perspective views of a case including a snap fastener 721 on the bottom of the case 710, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 7A shows an isometric bottom view of the case 710, FIG. 7B shows an isometric top view of the case 710, and FIG. 7C shows an isometric side view of the case 710.

[0104] According to one embodiment, snap fasteners 721 may be attached to or embedded in the bottom of case 710, which is further attached to an outer surface of a garment, e.g., the user's sleeve, pants, etc. In some cases, snap fasteners 721 are female snaps configured and activated to connect to respective male snap fasteners attached to or embedded in the garment, e.g., the user's sleeve or pants. Specifically, while case 110 and strap 120 of FIG. 1A have male snaps attached to the top surface of the case and configured to attach (e.g., electrically) to respective female snaps on the bottom of strap 120, case 710 of FIG. 7A includes female snaps on the bottom surface of the case configured to attach to respective male snaps on the garment (e.g., an e-textile).

[0105] Figures 8A, 8B, and 8C show isometric side, top, and upper side views, respectively, of a circuit board such as PCB 800 (printed circuit board) that may be disposed or included within electrical device 801, which, according to one embodiment, may further be inserted (e.g., embedded) into a case such as case 710 as shown in Figure 11. It has been emphasized that PCB 800 having male snaps may also be inserted into a case such as case 110, as shown in Figures 1A-1C.

[0106] PCB 800 can include one or more layers of circuit boards, for example, two substrates such as snap substrate 802, circuit substrate 804, and circuit substrate 803 connected vertically one above the other by one or more connectors, such as substrate connector 806.

[0107] According to one embodiment, the substrate 802 can include a fastening mechanism 840 including a plurality of snap fasteners, such as, for example, four female snap fasteners, which can be magnetically connected to corresponding male snap fasteners attached to a garment, such as, for example, a sleeved shirt. In some cases, according to an embodiment, the male snaps can be attached to the circuit board and the female snaps can be attached to a strap, such as strap 120 connected to the garment or clothing, such as, for example, case 110 of FIGS. 1A-1C.

[0108] According to one embodiment, the fastening mechanism 840 may be conductive. For example, the female snap may be electrically connected to the PCB 800, and specifically to the circuit board 802, and further to a conductive elastic strap of the e-textile, or to a conductive electrode of the e-textile embedded in the user's garment that configures and enables the flow of electrical current from the PCB 800 to the user's body, generating an electrical pulse.

[0109] According to one embodiment, the snaps (eg, male and / or female snaps) may be conductive. According to some embodiments, the snap may be conductive and magnetic.

[0110] According to some embodiments, the PCB 800 or substrate 802 may be flexible or may include flexible portions. According to some embodiments, the PCB 800 includes strain tolerant regions between the snap portions and the component portions.

[0111] In some cases, the snap fasteners may be compressed into a substrate 802, such as a flexible substrate. For example, four female snaps may include four studs 812, 814, 816, and 818 compressed onto the surface of the substrate 802, with four associated caps 812′, 814′, 816′, and 818′ correspondingly attached underneath the substrate 802 and compressed onto the studs and substrate 802.

[0112] In some cases, the snap fasteners may be soldered to a substrate 802, such as a flexible substrate. For example, four female snaps may include four studs 812, 814, 816, and 818 soldered to the surface of the substrate 802, with four associated caps 812′, 814′, 816′, and 818′ correspondingly mounted underneath the substrate 802 and soldered to the studs and substrate 802.

[0113] In some cases, the snap fasteners may be soldered and compressed to a substrate 802, such as a flexible substrate. For example, four female snaps may include four studs 812, 814, 816, and 818 soldered and compressed to the surface of the substrate 802, with four associated caps 812′, 814′, 816′, and 818′ attached underneath the substrate 802 and soldered and compressed to the studs and substrate 802 accordingly.

[0114] According to some embodiments, the fastening mechanism 840 may be magnetic or may include magnetic materials or elements, for example, to allow for guidance, positioning, and attachment of the case 110 to clothing.

[0115] According to some embodiments, PCB 800 further comprises one or more processors, such as processor 850, mounted on substrate 804. The processor is configured to control, activate, and process data associated with electronic device 801. The processor may be a microprocessor. The device may further include additional electrical components, for example, mounted on substrate 804.

[0116] According to some embodiments, device 801 includes one or more power sources, such as a battery 870, mounted on substrate 804, a power button 880 mounted, for example, on the bottom surface of substrate 804, and one or more indicator lights, such as one or more LEDs 890, to indicate the status of:

[0117] Device status (on / off); Bluetooth connection, current transmission state (active / inactive), etc. According to one embodiment, electronic device 801 further comprises a restart button 885 for automatically restarting the device, and one or more connection ports, such as an interface connection port 887 for connecting the device to external computers and peripheral devices (keyboards, game controllers, etc.). In some cases, the connection port may be a USB or USB-C connection that can be used to charge the device's battery and / or for use with a cable terminating in electrodes.

[0118] FIG. 8D shows an isometric top side view of various elements of a PCB, including device circuit boards (e.g., boards 802 and 804) and electronic components (such as a battery processor), connected perpendicularly to each other with respect to the Y axis of the Cartesian XYZ axes.

[0119] 9A, 9B, and 9C show isometric top, bottom, and top views, respectively, of a circuit board 900 according to another embodiment. Circuit board 900 is configured to hold all or some of the electronic elements included in PCB 800 or PCB 222. Circuit board 900 has a different configuration, size, and shape compared to PCB 800 and is configured to hold components and elements, such as electronic components, within a single circuit board, such as a single flat PCB.

[0120] According to an embodiment, with respect to the Y-axis of the Cartesian XYZ axes, one or more circuit boards or electronic elements within PCB 900 are connected to each other horizontally to form a single, flat PCB layer. For example, as shown in Figures 9A-9C, circuit board 900 may include a main circuit board 910 layer including a plurality of snaps, such as female snaps 912, 914, 916, and 918, and a processor 950. Meanwhile, one or more power sources, such as two batteries 970, may be connected vertically on each side of the main circuit board, for example, via one or more electrical connections 972 and 974.

[0121] According to some embodiments, PCB 900 can include rigid and flexible portions. For example, main circuit board 901 can be rigid, while connections 972 and 974 can be flexible. Note that PCB 900 can include other rigid / flexible portions.

[0122] Advantageously, the structure and design of PCB 900 provides better space utilization of a case, such as case 710 or case 110, and allows for electronic elements to be included in various locations within the case, such as in the wings. Additionally, the space utilization may result in a case with smaller dimensions, e.g., thicker, and more ergonomic design.

[0123] According to other embodiments, other elements such as additional circuit boards and / or processors may be connected to the sides of PCB 910. 10A shows a top view of a housing 1000 for holding one or more circuit boards within a case, according to an embodiment. Specifically, the housing 1000 can hold a PCB 800 and can be inserted into a cavity of a case, such as the case 710.

[0124] In some embodiments, the housing may be made from silicon. In some embodiments, the housing may be made from a non-conductive silicone material. In some embodiments, the housing can be sized and dimensioned such that the base can surround the circuit board, the circuit board can fit and integrate with the housing 1000 to form an integrated unit 1001, as shown in FIG. 10B, and both the base and the circuit board can be inserted into a cavity in the case. For example, the housing 1000 can be sized and dimensioned such that the housing 1000 can surround the circuit board 800, and the circuit board 800 can fit and integrate with the housing 1000 to form an integrated unit 1001, which can be further inserted into a cavity in the case 710.

[0125] In some embodiments, a PCB, such as PCB 222 or PCB 800 or PCB 900, and / or a housing is formed in a shape and size such that a housing and case, such as housing 1001, is compressed around the PCB to form a single unit.

[0126] FIG. 10B shows an isometric top view of PCB 800 compressed into and surrounded by housing 1000, according to one embodiment. 11 shows a top view 1100 of a case 1110 attached to a sleeve 1112, according to an embodiment. In some embodiments, the case 1110 may be the case 110 or the case 910 shown in FIGS. 1A and 9A, respectively. The case 1110 and the sleeve 1112 include a fastening mechanism 1115 including, for example, four snap fasteners 1122, 1124, 1126, and 1128. The snap fasteners 1122, 1124, 1126, and 1128 may be conductive and / or include one or more conductive elements that may be electrically connected to one or more conductive strips embedded in and / or attached to the sleeve 1112.

[0127] In one embodiment, four conductive male / female snaps, snap fasteners 1122, 1124, 1126, and 1128, may be attached to or embedded in sleeve 1112 and may be electrically connected to one or more conductive straps, for example, embedded in and / or attached to sleeve 1112 and / or straps connected to the sleeve (as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B), while case 1110 may have four male / female snaps attached to and / or embedded therein. More specifically, according to one embodiment, four conductive male snaps, snaps 1122, 1124, 1126, and 1128, may be connected to four conductive elastic strips, such as conductive elastic strips 1122′, 1124′, 1126′, and 1128′, respectively, embedded in sleeve 1110. Thus, four female snaps, snaps 1122, 1124, 1126, and 1128, may be attached to and protrude from case 1110. In operation, when the female and male snaps are connected, the electrodes embedded in the sleeve close a loop through the electronic device in the case and the user's body. When the user turns on the electrical device via switch button 1130 or automatically by connecting the female and male snaps, an electrical pulse is generated and transmitted through conductive straps 1122', 1124', 1126', and 1128' to one or more embedded electrodes 129, respectively, making contact and transmitting current through the body to treat the user's pain. In some embodiments, conductive straps 1122', 1124', 1126', and 1128' may be made of silver and polyester. In some cases, one or more embedded electrodes 129 may be positioned above the elbow portion 131 of the user's sleeve.

[0128] Optionally, an additional strap 1156 can cover the device and secure the case to the sleeve. The strap may be made of polyester. In some cases, snaps 1122, 1124, 1126, and 1128 may be magnetic.

[0129] It is emphasized that different printed circuit boards can be used in different case configurations, for example, case 110 can include PCB 800 or PCB 900, or case 710 can include PCB 222 or PCB 800 or PCB 900. Additionally, different cases can include different types of snaps (male / female) attached under or on the case and straps.

[0130] The term "garment" as used herein and throughout this specification may relate to clothing, such as, for example, textile and woven materials worn on the human or animal body. In further embodiments, the processing unit may be a digital processing device including one or more hardware central processing units (CPUs) that perform the functions of the device. In further embodiments, the digital processing device further comprises an operating system configured to execute the executable instructions. In some embodiments, the digital processing device is optionally connected to a computer network. In further embodiments, the digital processing device is optionally connected to the Internet to access the World Wide Web. In yet other embodiments, the digital processing device is optionally connected to a cloud computing infrastructure. In other embodiments, the digital processing device is optionally connected to an intranet. In other embodiments, the digital processing device is optionally connected to a data storage device.

[0131] In accordance with the description herein, suitable digital processing devices include, by way of non-limiting example, server computers, desktop computers, laptop computers, notebook computers, subnotebook computers, netbook computers, netpad computers, set-top computers, handheld computers, Internet appliances, mobile smartphones, tablet computers, personal digital assistants, video game consoles, and vehicles. Those skilled in the art will recognize that many smartphones are suitable for use with the systems described herein. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that selected televisions with optional computer network connectivity are suitable for use with the systems described herein. Suitable tablet computers include those with booklet, slate, and convertible configurations known to those skilled in the art.

[0132] In some embodiments, the digital processing device includes an operating system configured to execute executable instructions. An operating system is software, including programs and data, that manages the device's hardware and provides services for the execution of applications, for example. Those skilled in the art will recognize that suitable server operating systems include, by way of non-limiting example, FreeBSD, OpenBSD, NetBSD®, LINUX®, Apple® Mac OS X Server®, Oracle® Solaris®, Windows Server®, and Novell® NetWare®. Those skilled in the art will recognize that suitable personal computer operating systems include, by way of non-limiting example, Microsoft® Windows®, Apple® Mac OS X®, UNIX®, and UNIX-like operating systems such as GNU / Linux. In some embodiments, the operating system is provided by cloud computing. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that suitable mobile smartphone operating systems include, by way of non-limiting example, Nokia® Symbian® OS, Apple® iOS®, Research In Motion® BlackBerry® OS, Google® Android®, Microsoft® Windows Phone® OS, Microsoft® Windows Mobile® OS, Linux®, and Palm® WebOS®.

[0133] In some embodiments, the device includes a storage device and / or a memory device. A storage device and / or a memory device is one or more physical devices used to temporarily or permanently store data or programs. In some embodiments, the device is volatile memory, requiring power to maintain stored information. In some embodiments, the device is nonvolatile memory, retaining stored information when power is not applied to the digital processing device. In further embodiments, the nonvolatile memory comprises flash memory. In some embodiments, the nonvolatile memory comprises dynamic random access memory (DRAM). In some embodiments, the nonvolatile memory comprises ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM). In some embodiments, the nonvolatile memory comprises phase change random access memory (PRAM). In other embodiments, the device is a storage device, including, by non-limiting example, a CD-ROM, a DVD, a flash memory device, a magnetic disk drive, a magnetic tape drive, an optical disk drive, and cloud computing-based storage. In further embodiments, the storage device and / or memory device is a combination of devices as disclosed herein.

[0134] In some embodiments, the digital processing device includes a display for transmitting visual information to a user. In some embodiments, the display is a cathode ray tube (CRT). In some embodiments, the display is a liquid crystal display (LCD). In further embodiments, the display is a thin film transistor liquid crystal display (TFT-LCD). In some embodiments, the display is an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display. In various further embodiments, the OLED display is a passive matrix OLED (PMOLED) or an active matrix OLED (AMOLED) display. In some embodiments, the display is a plasma display. In other embodiments, the display is a video projector. In yet other embodiments, the display is a combination of devices as disclosed herein.

[0135] In some embodiments, the digital processing device includes an input device for receiving information from a user. In some embodiments, the input device is a keyboard. In some embodiments, the input device is a pointing device, including, by way of non-limiting example, a mouse, trackball, trackpad, joystick, game controller, or stylus. In some embodiments, the input device is a touchscreen or multi-touchscreen. In other embodiments, the input device is a microphone for capturing voice or other sound input. In other embodiments, the input device is a video camera for capturing motion or visual input. In yet other embodiments, the input device is a combination of devices as disclosed herein.

[0136] In some embodiments, the systems disclosed herein include one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media encoded with a program including instructions executable by an operating system of the networked digital processing device. In further embodiments, the computer-readable storage medium is a tangible component of the digital processing device. In yet other embodiments, the computer-readable storage medium is optionally removable from the digital processing device.

[0137] In some embodiments, computer-readable storage media include, by way of non-limiting example, CD-ROMs, DVDs, flash memory devices, solid-state memory, magnetic disk drives, magnetic tape drives, optical disk drives, cloud computing systems and services, etc. In some cases, programs and instructions are encoded on the media permanently, substantially permanently, semi-permanently, or non-transitoryly. In some embodiments, the systems disclosed herein include at least one computer program, or the use thereof. A computer program includes a set of instructions executable by a CPU of a digital processing device and written to perform specified tasks. Computer-readable instructions can be implemented as program modules, such as functions, objects, application programming interfaces (APIs), data structures, etc., that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. In light of the disclosure provided herein, those skilled in the art will recognize that computer programs can be written in a variety of languages ​​and in a variety of versions.

[0138] The functionality of the computer-readable instructions may be combined or distributed as desired in various environments. In some embodiments, a computer program includes one sequence of instructions. In some embodiments, a computer program includes multiple sequences of instructions. In some embodiments, a computer program is provided from one location. In other embodiments, a computer program is provided from multiple locations. In various embodiments, a computer program includes one or more software modules. In various embodiments, a computer program includes, in part or in whole, one or more web applications, one or more mobile applications, one or more standalone applications, one or more web browser plug-ins, extensions, add-ins, or add-ons, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, a computer program includes a mobile application provided to a mobile digital processing device. In some embodiments, a mobile application is provided to a mobile digital processing device at the time of manufacture. In other embodiments, a mobile application is provided to a mobile digital processing device via a computer network as described herein.

[0139] Given the disclosure provided herein, mobile applications are created using hardware, languages, and development environments known to those skilled in the art, and with techniques known to those skilled in the art. Those skilled in the art will recognize that mobile applications are written in a number of languages. Suitable programming languages ​​include, by way of non-limiting example, C, C++, C#, Object-C, Java™, JAVASCRIPT™, Pascal, Object Pascal, Python™, Ruby, VB.NET, WML, and XHTML / HTML with or without CSS, or a combination thereof.

[0140] Suitable mobile application development environments are available from several sources. Commercially available development environments include, but are not limited to, Airplay SDK, alcheMo, Appcelerator®, Celsius, Bedrock, Flash Lite, .NET Compact Framework, Rhomobile, and WorkLight Mobile Platform. Other development environments are available free of charge, but are not limited to, Lazarus, MobiFlex, MoSync, and Phonegap. Mobile device manufacturers also distribute software developer kits, but are not limited to, the iPhone® and iPad® (iOS) SDK, Android™ SDK, BlackBerry® SDK, BREW SDK, Palm® OS SDK, Symbian SDK, webOS SDK, and Windows® Mobile SDK.

[0141] Those skilled in the art will recognize that several commercial forums are available for the distribution of mobile applications, including, by way of non-limiting example, the Apple® App Store, Android™ Market, BlackBerry® App World, App Store for Palm devices, webOS for App Catalog, Mobile for Windows® Marketplace, Ovi Store for Nokia® devices, Samsung® Apps, and Nintendo® DSi Shop.

[0142] In some embodiments, the systems disclosed herein include software, server, and / or database modules, or the use thereof. In view of the disclosure provided herein, software modules are created using machines, software, and languages ​​known to those of skill in the art and by techniques known to those of skill in the art. The software modules disclosed herein are implemented in numerous ways. In various embodiments, a software module comprises a file, a section of code, a programming object, a programming structure, or a combination thereof. In further various embodiments, a software module comprises multiple files, multiple sections of code, multiple programming objects, multiple programming structures, or a combination thereof. In various embodiments, one or more software modules include, by way of non-limiting examples, a web application, a mobile application, and a standalone application. In some embodiments, a software module is within a single computer program or application. In other embodiments, a software module is within multiple computer programs or applications. In some embodiments, a software module is hosted on a single machine. In other embodiments, a software module is hosted on multiple machines. In further embodiments, a software module is hosted on a cloud computing platform. In some embodiments, a software module is hosted on one or more machines in a single location. In other embodiments, the software modules are hosted on one or more machines in multiple locations.

[0143] In some embodiments, the systems disclosed herein include one or more databases, or the use thereof. Given the disclosure provided herein, those skilled in the art will recognize that many databases are suitable for storing and retrieving the information described herein. In various embodiments, suitable databases include, by way of non-limiting example, relational databases, non-relational databases, object-oriented databases, object databases, entity-relationship model databases, associative databases, and XML databases. In some embodiments, the database is internet-based. In further embodiments, the database is web-based. In further embodiments, the database is cloud computing-based. In other embodiments, the database is based on one or more local computer storage devices.

[0144] In the above description, an embodiment is an example or implementation of the invention. The various expressions "one embodiment," "one embodiment," or "some embodiments" do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiments.

[0145] While various features of the invention may be described in the context of a single embodiment, these features may also be provided separately or in any suitable combination. Conversely, although the invention may, for clarity, be described herein in the context of separate embodiments, the invention may also be practiced in a single embodiment.

[0146] References herein to "some embodiments," "embodiments," "one embodiment," or "other embodiments" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least some embodiments of the invention, but not necessarily in all embodiments.

[0147] It is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein should not be construed as limiting and is for the purpose of description only. The principles and uses of the teachings of the present invention may be better understood with reference to the accompanying description, figures and examples.

[0148] It is to be understood that the details set forth herein are not to be construed as limitations on the application of the present invention. Furthermore, it is to be understood that the invention can be implemented or practiced in various ways, and that the invention can be embodied in embodiments other than those outlined in the description above.

[0149] It is to be understood that the terms "comprise," "comprise," "consist," and grammatical variations thereof do not exclude the addition of one or more components, features, steps, or integers or groups thereof, and that these terms should be interpreted as specifying components, features, steps, or integers.

[0150] If the specification or claims refer to "additional" elements, this does not exclude the presence of more than one of the additional elements. When a claim or the specification refers to “a” or “an” element, it should be understood that such a reference is not to be interpreted as indicating the presence of only one of that element. When the specification states that a component, feature, structure, or characteristic “may,” “might,” “can,” or “could” be included, it should be understood that the inclusion of that particular component, feature, structure, or characteristic is not necessary. Where applicable, embodiments may be described using state diagrams, flow diagrams, or both, but the invention is not limited to those diagrams or the corresponding descriptions. For example, the flow need not move through each illustrated box or state, or in the exact same order as illustrated and described. The methods of the present invention can be implemented by performing or completing selected steps or tasks manually, automatically, or a combination thereof.

[0151] The claims and the descriptions, examples, methods and materials presented herein should not be interpreted as limiting, but rather as illustrative. The meanings of technical and scientific terms used herein should be generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs, unless otherwise defined. The present invention can be carried out in testing or practice using methods and materials equivalent or similar to those described herein.

[0152] While the present invention has been described with respect to a limited number of embodiments, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention, but rather as exemplification of some of the preferred embodiments. Other possible variations, modifications, and applications are also within the scope of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should not be limited by what has been described above, but should be limited by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

[0153] All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein fully incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. Furthermore, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention. To the extent section headings are used, they should not be construed as necessarily limiting. (Addendum) The technical ideas that can be understood from the above-described embodiment and modified examples will be described. [Item 1] A wearable device, An elongated flexible strap, a plurality of female snaps attached in a row to the bottom of the strap; an elongated flexible strap attached at a distal end to a garment, the elongated flexible strap forming an opening between the elongated flexible strap and the garment; The case is a flexible body having an elongated portion and a widened portion extending from the elongated portion, the flexible body configured to be inserted into the opening; a plurality of male snaps aligned on an outer surface of the flexible body, the plurality of male snaps configured to connect the case to a bottom of the strap; a case comprising: a cavity for holding at least one electronic device; A wearable device comprising: [Item 2] Item 1. The wearable device of item 1, wherein the elongated flexible strap is made of a conductive material. [Item 3] 3. The wearable device of item 2, wherein the conductive elongated flexible strap is electrically connected to two or more conductive elements within the garment to transmit electrical pulses from the electrical device to the user's body. [Item 4] 3. The wearable device of claim 2, wherein the conductive elongated flexible strap is electrically connected at each of its distal ends to one or more conductive elements embedded in or attached to the garment for transmitting electrical pulses from the electrical device to the user's body. [Item 5] 4. The wearable device of claim 2 or 3, wherein the conductive element is a conductive strap embedded in the garment. [Item 6] Item 1. The wearable device of item 1, wherein the plurality of male snaps are configured to attach the electronic device to the case. [Item 7] Item 1. The wearable device of item 1, wherein some or all of the plurality of male snaps are made of a conductive material. [Item 8] Item 1. A wearable device as described in item 1, wherein some or all of the plurality of female snaps are made of a conductive material. [Item 9] Item 9. The wearable device of item 8, wherein some or all of the plurality of conductive male snaps are attached to the case. [Item 10] Item 1. A wearable device as described in item 1, wherein some or all of the plurality of conductive male snaps are attached to the case and the electronic device. [Item 11] Item 1, wherein the electronic device comprises a printed circuit board (PCB). [Item 12] Item 12. The wearable device of item 11, wherein the PCB comprises two or more circuit board layers, the two or more circuit board layers being connected together in a stacked manner. [Item 13] Item 13. The wearable device of item 12, wherein the plurality of male snaps are embedded in or attached to the printed circuit board (PCB). [Item 14] Item 13. The wearable device of item 12, wherein the plurality of male snaps are embedded or compressed into a top layer of the two or more circuit board layers of the PCB. [Item 15] Item 6. The wearable device of item 5, wherein the female snap or male snap is configured to activate the electronic device when the female snap and male snap are attached to each other. [Item 16] Item 1. The wearable device of item 1, wherein the plurality of male snaps are attached to the outer surface of the case and the matching female snaps of the snap fastener are attached to an inner portion of the elongated flexible strap. [Item 17] Item 12. The wearable device of item 1 or 11, comprising a housing for holding the electronic device or the PCB. [Item 18] Item 18. The wearable device of item 17, wherein the PCB is configured to be compressed into the housing and the case. [Item 19] Item 18. The wearable device of item 17, wherein the housing is configured to cover or surround the PCB. [Item 20] Item 1. The wearable device of item 1, comprising various fastening mechanisms for connecting the case to the elongated flexible strap. [Item 21] 21. The wearable device of claim 20, wherein the various fastening mechanisms are made of or include a conductive material. [Item 22] Item 1: The wearable device of item 1, wherein the case comprises a strip portion extending from the distal end of the case to the center of the case, and the wide portion includes two portions extending from either side of the strip portion at or away from the center of the case to opposite distal ends to form two wing-shaped portions. [Item 23] Item 23. The wearable device of item 22, wherein the two wing-shaped portions may be curved at an angle β relative to axis X of the Cartesian XY axes. [Item 24] Item 23. The wearable device of item 22, wherein the wide portion indicates which side of the case to position up and which side to position down relative to the user's body, and is used to facilitate positioning on the body. [Item 25] Item 1, wherein the electronic device is a therapeutic electronic device. [Item 26] Item 12. The wearable device of item 11, wherein the therapeutic electronic device comprises one or more waveform generators configured to generate electronic pulses to treat pain of the user. [Item 27] Item 1. The wearable device of item 1, wherein the case has one or more openings on the top surface of the case so that the male snaps protrude from the PCB. [Item 28] Item 1, wherein the male and female snaps are magnetic or comprise magnetic elements. [Item 29] Item 12. The wearable device of item 11, wherein the PCB comprises a strain-tolerant region between the snap portion and the component portion. [Item 30] Item 12. The wearable device of item 11, wherein the male snaps may compress the top and bottom of the circuit board and case together. [Item 31] Item 12. The wearable device of item 11, wherein the male snaps may be soldered after the male snaps are mechanically compressed to the one or more circuit boards.

Claims

1. A wearable device, An elongated flexible strap, a plurality of female snaps attached in a row to the bottom of the flexible strap; an elongated flexible strap attached at a distal end to a garment, the elongated flexible strap forming an opening between the elongated flexible strap and the garment; The case is a flexible body having an elongated portion and a widened portion extending from the elongated portion, the flexible body configured to be inserted into the opening; a plurality of male snaps aligned on an outer surface of the flexible body, the plurality of male snaps configured to connect the case to a bottom of the flexible strap; a case having a cavity for holding at least one electronic device; A wearable device comprising:

2. The wearable device of claim 1 , wherein the elongated flexible strap is made of a conductive material.

3. A wearable device as described in claim 2, wherein the conductive elongated flexible strap is electrically connected to two or more conductive elements within the garment to transmit electrical pulses from the electronic device to the user's body.

4. A wearable device as described in claim 2, wherein the conductive elongated flexible strap is electrically connected at each of its distal ends to one or more conductive elements embedded in or attached to the garment for transmitting electrical pulses from the electronic device to the user's body.

5. The wearable device of claim 1 , wherein some or all of the plurality of male snaps are made of a conductive material.

6. The wearable device of claim 1 , wherein some or all of the plurality of female snaps are made of a conductive material.

7. A wearable device as described in claim 6, wherein some or all of the plurality of conductive male snaps are attached to the case.

8. The wearable device of claim 1 , wherein the electronic device comprises a printed circuit board (PCB).

9. The wearable device of claim 1 or claim 8, comprising a housing for holding the electronic device or the PCB.

10. The wearable device of claim 9 , wherein the housing is configured to cover or surround the PCB.

11. The wearable device of claim 1 , comprising various fastening mechanisms for connecting the case to the elongated flexible strap.

12. The wearable device of claim 11 , wherein the various fastening mechanisms are made of or include a conductive material.

13. 2. The wearable device of claim 1, wherein the case comprises a strip portion extending from the distal end of the case to a center of the case, and the wide portion includes two portions extending from either side of the strip portion at or away from the center of the case to opposite distal ends to form two wing-shaped portions.

14. The wearable device of claim 13, wherein the two wing-shaped portions may be curved at an angle β relative to an axis X of a Cartesian XY axis.

15. The wearable device of claim 1 , wherein the electronic device is a therapeutic electronic device.

16. The wearable device of claim 1 , wherein the male and female snaps are magnetic or comprise magnetic elements.

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