Straps for wearable devices

Abstract

A strap for a wearable device configured to secure to a portion of a user's body may include a base and multiple strap members secured to a portion of the base. In some implementations, the base is made of a first material and each of the multiple strap members is made of a second material, the first material being more flexible than the second material. In some implementations, the base includes multiple openings spaced apart from one another along a length of the base and multiple stems. In some implementations, each of the multiple strap members is a channel secured to one of the stems. In some implementations, the first material includes at least one of rubber and silicone, and the second material is a metallic material.

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] The present disclosure relates to a strap for fixing a wearable device such as a health monitoring device worn on the wrist to a part of the user's body such as the wrist.

Background Art

[0002] A patient monitoring device may include a pulse oximeter. The oximeter may measure oxygen saturation (SpO2), pulse rate, plethysmograph waveform, perfusion index (PI), pulse wave variation index (PVI), methemoglobin (MetHb), carboxyhemoglobin (CoHb), total hemoglobin (tHb), glucose, and / or others. The oximeter may display the aforementioned parameters individually, as a group, as a trend, as a combination, or as an overall health status or other indicator on one or more monitors.

[0003] The pulse oximetry sensor is described in U.S. Patent No. 6,088,607 titled "Low Noise Optical Probe", the pulse oximetry signal processing is described in U.S. Patent Nos. 6,650,917 titled "Signal Processing Apparatus" and 6,699,194 titled "Signal Processing Apparatus and Method" respectively, and for the pulse oximeter monitor, it is described in U.S. Patent No. 6,584,336 titled "Universal / Upgrading Pulse Oximeter", all of which are assigned to Masimo Corporation of Irvine, California, and each is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

[0005] Monitoring physiological parameters using pulse oximetry can be beneficial not only for patients in conventional hospital care settings but also for individuals in the normal course of their daily activities. Oximetry uses non-invasive optical sensors to measure a person's physiological parameters. Generally, the sensor has a light-emitting diode (LED) that transmits light emission to a tissue site and one or more detectors that detect the light emission after absorption (by transmittance, reflectance, or transmitted-reflectance) by pulsatile arterial blood flow within the tissue site, for example. Based on the detected light emission, a processor can determine measurements such as peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2), which is an estimate of the percentage of oxygen bound to hemoglobin in the blood; pulse rate; plethysmographic waveforms showing changes in arterial blood volume with each pulse; and perfusion quality index (e.g., an index that quantifies the pulse intensity at the sensor site).

[0006] A physiological monitoring module, also referred to herein as a plethysmograph module or module, may be incorporated into a wearable device that is attached to a part of a person's body, such as the wearer's wrist. For example, such a wearable device may be a wristwatch. A module in a wristwatch may be used to monitor one or more physiological parameters of the wearer. The module may detect pulse rate, oxygen saturation, and / or other physiological parameters, as disclosed elsewhere herein. The module may include curvature to improve pressure and contact, and therefore photocoupling, between the wearer's skin and the plethysmograph module. The curvature of the module may be designed to balance the pressure of the wristwatch on the wearer's wrist with the wearer's comfort. In some implementations, the module and / or wristwatch may include a connection port that receives another pulse oxygen meter sensor configured to bond to the wearer at a measurement site different from the wearer's wrist on the wearer's body.

[0007] Some wearable devices, which include components and / or functions configured to enable the measurement of a user's physiological parameters, are secured to the user via one or more straps. The amount of pressure and / or contact applied by the wearable device when the associated straps are secured to the wearer can significantly affect the integrity of the physiological parameter measurements obtained by the wearable device. Therefore, it is desirable to ensure that the straps securing the wearable device promote good pressure and / or contact with the wearer's skin. However, wearer comfort is also an important consideration. If the straps and / or the wearable device are configured such that good pressure and / or contact between the wearable device and the wearer's skin causes discomfort to the wearer, the wearer may only be able to wear the wearable device for a short time and / or may loosen the straps in a way that impairs the integrity of the physiological measurements obtained by the wearable device. Some conventional straps for wearable devices are made only of flexible materials that are too flexible and / or stretch too much, while providing some degree of comfort to the user, thereby impairing the integrity of the physiological measurements obtained by the wearable device in combination with the strap. Furthermore, the materials used in such conventional straps can be rough and / or otherwise uncomfortable for the wearer, especially over extended periods.

[0008] In various implementations, this disclosure describes straps for securing a wearable device to a user, made of metal and also more flexible materials (e.g., more stretchable materials) to facilitate both robust physiological parameter measurement and user comfort. For example, various implementations of the straps disclosed herein incorporate metal (e.g., multiple metal components and / or metal parts) and different materials that are more flexible than metal (e.g., more stretchable), such as materials containing rubber and / or silicone. In some implementations, the majority of the strap (e.g., more than 50%, 55%, or 60%) consists of non-metallic materials such as rubber and / or silicone. In some implementations, less than half of the strap consists of metallic materials (e.g., stainless steel). In some implementations, at least half of the strap consists of non-metallic materials such as rubber and / or silicone. In some implementations, the majority of a portion of the strap that comes into contact with the user's skin when the wearable device and / or strap is in use (e.g., more than 50%) consists of metallic materials, such as smooth metallic materials. Such configurations can enhance user comfort because the metallic material can facilitate a smooth contact surface with the wearer's skin. Such configurations can also significantly enhance user comfort at the skin-contact interface compared to straps made entirely of non-metallic materials such as rubber or leather, especially when the strap is used for extended periods. Various implementations of the strap disclosed herein incorporate openings along the length and / or width of the strap, which, among other things, can allow air to reach the skin close to the strap and promote breathability. Such openings can form closed loops around a part of the wearer's body (e.g., the wrist), apart from holes along a portion of the strap configured to receive the buckle tongue of the corresponding strap. Advantageously, various implementations of the strap disclosed herein incorporate metal and non-metallic materials (e.g., silicone and / or rubber), which promotes optimal pressure and / or contact with the wearer's skin, thus increasing the accuracy of physiological parameter measurements and enhancing comfort.

[0009] In various implementations, this disclosure describes a strap that does not have metal links connecting parts of the strap together. In some implementations, the strap of this disclosure comprises one or more integrally molded hinges on a non-metallic portion of the strap, such as on and / or along an edge member of the strap that can define the side of the strap. Such integrally molded hinges may be spaced apart from one another. In some implementations, such integrally molded hinges are formed by narrowing a portion of such edge member.

[0010] This specification discloses a strap for a wearable device configured to be attached to a part of a user's body. In some implementations, the strap comprises a base comprising a first material and a plurality of strap members arranged around a portion of the base along the length of the base, each of the plurality of strap members comprising a second material, wherein the first material of the base is more flexible than the second material of each of the plurality of strap members.

[0011] In some implementations, the base has a one-piece molded structure. In some implementations, the first material includes at least one of rubber and silicone. In some implementations, the second material includes metal. In some implementations, the second material includes stainless steel. In some implementations, the multiple strap members limit the ability of the base to stretch along an axis substantially parallel to the length of the base. In some implementations, portions of the multiple strap members are configured to come into contact with the user's skin when the strap is secured to the user's wrist during use. In some implementations, the portions of the multiple strap members are smooth.

[0012] In some implementations, the amount of strap included in the base is greater than the amount of strap included in the multiple strap members. In some implementations, the multiple strap members are configured to surround the aforementioned portion of the base. In some implementations, the multiple strap members do not have an integrally formed structure.

[0013] In some implementations, the base further comprises a first end configured to connect to a first portion of a wearable device and a second end opposite the first end, with the length of the base extending between the first and second ends. In some implementations, the multiple strap members are spaced apart from the first and second ends of the base. In some implementations, the base further comprises a width extending between both sides of the base, with the multiple strap members inserted from the sides of the base between the widths.

[0014] In some implementations, the base further comprises a first end configured to connect to a portion of a wearable device, a second end opposite the first end, the length of which extends between the first and second ends, a width extending between both sides of the base, a plurality of openings spaced apart from each other along the length, and a plurality of stems, each positioned between two of the plurality of openings and generally extending in the width direction, wherein the plurality of strap members comprises a plurality of channels at least partially positioned around the plurality of stems of the base. In some implementations, each of the plurality of channels comprises a web and at least one leg extending from the web, the web and at least one leg configured to surround a portion of the plurality of stems.

[0015] In some implementations, each of the plurality of channels comprises the web and at least two legs extending from the web. In some implementations, the legs are curved. In some implementations, the web is substantially planar. In some implementations, the web is curved. In some implementations, the two legs extend from both ends of the web. In some implementations, the web and the two legs are configured to surround less than the entire cross-section of one of the plurality of stems. In some implementations, the web and the two legs are configured to surround the entire cross-section of one of the plurality of stems.

[0016] In some implementations, the plurality of channels comprises a plurality of channel pairs fixed at least partially around a plurality of stems at the base. In some implementations, each of the plurality of channel pairs comprises a first channel configured to surround a first portion of one of the plurality of stems, and a second channel configured to surround a second portion of one of the plurality of stems. In some implementations, the first channel is configured to surround a portion less than the entire cross-section of one of the plurality of stems. In some implementations, the second channel is configured to surround a portion less than the entire cross-section of one of the plurality of stems.

[0017] In some implementations, the first channel and the second channel work together to enclose the entire cross-section of one of the multiple stems. In some implementations, the first channel is configured to enclose at least half of the cross-section of one of the multiple stems. In some implementations, the second channel is configured to enclose at least half of the said cross-section of one of the multiple stems. In some implementations, at least a portion of the first channel overlaps with at least a portion of the second channel. In some implementations, the first channel overlaps less than the entire cross-section of the second channel. In some implementations, the overlapping portions of the first and second channels and the non-overlapping portions of the first and second channels work together to define a substantially circular shape around one of the multiple stems. In some implementations, the substantially circular shape includes an oval.

[0018] In some implementations, the first channel comprises a web and legs extending from both ends of the web of the first channel, and the second channel comprises a web and legs extending from both ends of the web of the second channel, and when the first and second channels are arranged around one of a plurality of stems, the legs of the first channel overlap with the legs of the second channel. In some implementations, each of the webs of the first channel and the second channel is generally planar. In some implementations, the legs of the first channel overlap only with the legs of the second channel. In some implementations, the overlapping legs of the first and second channels and the non-overlapping portions of the first and second channels work together to define a substantially circular shape around one of a plurality of stems.

[0019] In some implementations, one of the multiple stems comprises a top, a bottom opposite the top, and opposing sides connecting the top and bottom, with the side of one of the multiple stems positioned adjacent to the leg of the second channel, and the overlapping legs of the first and second channels, the non-overlapping portions of the first and second channels, and the side of one of the multiple stems working together to define the substantially circular shape around one of the multiple stems.

[0020] In some implementations, the substantially circular shape includes an oval shape. In some implementations, the leg of the second channel is in contact with one side of a plurality of stems, and the side of the plurality of stems is configured such that the outer surface of the end of the leg of the second channel is substantially flush with the plane of one of the stems. In some implementations, the leg of the second channel is in contact with one side of a plurality of stems, and the side of the plurality of stems is configured such that there is a generally smooth transition between the end of the leg of the second channel and one of the stems. In some implementations, the gap between each outer surface of the leg of the second channel and the surface of one of the stems is less than 0.1 inches.

[0021] In some implementations, the first channel includes a web and legs extending from both ends of the web of the first channel, the second channel includes a web and legs extending from both ends of the web of the second channel, each of the legs of the first channel includes a first end connected to the web of the first channel and a second end opposite the first end, and each of the legs of the first channel includes a continuous curve between the first end and the second end of each of the legs of the first channel. In some implementations, each of the legs of the second channel includes a first end connected to the web of the second channel and a second end opposite the first end, and only a part of each of the legs of the second channel includes a continuous curve. In some implementations, the first channel generally has a C-shaped cross section. In some implementations, the second channel generally has a C-shaped cross section.

[0022] In some implementations, the base further includes a first edge member extending along the first side surface of the base between the first end and the second end, a second edge member extending along the second side surface of the base between the first end and the second end, and a backbone member extending along at least a part of the length and disposed between the first edge member and the second edge member. In some implementations, the plurality of openings are spaced apart from each other along at least a part of the length, and include a first plurality of openings extending between the first edge member and the backbone member, and a second plurality of openings extending between the second edge member and the backbone member and spaced apart from each other along at least a part of the length. In some implementations, the plurality of stems each include a first plurality of stems disposed between two of the first plurality of openings and extending between the first edge member and the backbone member, and a second plurality of stems each disposed between two of the second plurality of openings and extending between the second edge member and the backbone member. In some implementations, the first edge member, the second edge member, and the backbone member are substantially parallel to each other. In some implementations, the first edge member, the second edge member, and the backbone member have an integrally formed structure.

[0023] In some implementations, the wearable device comprises a first strap and a second strap, each of the first strap and the second strap comprising any of the above straps, the backbone member of the first strap comprising a plurality of backbone member openings spaced apart from each other along the length of the backbone member of the first strap, the plurality of backbone member openings receiving the tongue of a buckle coupled to the second strap, whereby the size of the closed loop formed by the first strap and the second strap is configured to be adjustable. In some implementations, the wearable device comprises any of the above straps, the wearable device is configured to be fixed to the user's wrist, and the length of the base is configured to wrap around at least a portion of the user's wrist during use. In some implementations, the wearable device comprises any of the above straps, the wearable device is configured to measure one or more physiological parameters of the user. In some implementations, the wearable device is configured to measure at least one of the user's oxygen saturation and heart rate.

[0024] In some implementations, the plurality of strap members are configured to be removably fixed to a portion of the base. In some implementations, the plurality of strap members are configured to be non-removably fixed to a portion of the base. In some implementations, the wearable device comprises any of the above straps, and the wearable device is a wristwatch.

[0025] Disclosed herein is a method of manufacturing a strap for a wearable device, the method comprising forming a base from a first material and disposing a plurality of strap members around a portion of the base along the length of the base, each of the plurality of strap members comprising a second material, the first material of the base being more flexible than the second material of each of the plurality of strap members.

[0026] In some implementations, the step of forming the base with a first material includes the step of injection molding the base using a mold assembly. In some implementations, the mold assembly comprises a first mold part and a second mold part that are separable from each other. In some implementations, the first material includes at least one of rubber and silicone. In some implementations, the second material includes metal. In some implementations, the second material includes stainless steel. In some implementations, the amount of straps included in the base is greater than the amount of straps included in the multiple strap members. In some implementations, the multiple strap members do not have a single-piece structure.

[0027] In some implementations, the step of forming the base with the first material includes the step of forming a base having a first end, a second end, and sides separated by a width, the length of which extends between the first end and the second end; the step of forming a plurality of openings in the base, the plurality of openings spaced apart from each other along the length of the base; and the step of forming a plurality of stems in the base, each of the plurality of stems positioned between two of the plurality of openings and generally extending in the width direction. In some implementations, the step of arranging the plurality of strap members around the portion of the base along the length of the base includes the step of arranging the plurality of strap members around the plurality of stems of the base. In some implementations, the plurality of strap members comprises a plurality of channels, and the method includes the step of fastening the plurality of channels to the plurality of stems in the base. In some implementations, each of the plurality of channels comprises a web and at least one leg extending from the web, and the step of fixing the plurality of channels to a plurality of stems in a base includes the step of fixing the web and at least one leg of each of the plurality of channels around a portion of one of the plurality of stems.

[0028] In some implementations, each of the plurality of channels comprises a web and two legs extending from the web, and the step of securing the web and at least one leg of each of the plurality of channels around a portion of one of the plurality of stems includes the step of securing the web and two legs around a portion of one of the plurality of stems. In some implementations, the step of securing the web and two legs around a portion of one of the plurality of stems includes the step of securing the web and two legs around a portion less than the entire cross-section of one of the plurality of stems. In some implementations, the step of securing the web and two legs around a portion of one of the plurality of stems includes the step of securing the web and two legs around the entire cross-section of one of the plurality of stems.

[0029] In some implementations, the plurality of channels comprises a plurality of channel pairs, each of which comprises a first channel and a second channel, and the step of fixing the plurality of channels to a plurality of stems in a base includes the step of fixing the first channel around a first portion of one of the plurality of stems and the step of fixing the second channel around a second portion of one of the plurality of stems. In some implementations, the step of fixing the first channel around the first portion of one of the plurality of stems includes the step of fixing the first channel around a portion less than the entire cross-section of one of the plurality of stems, and the step of fixing the second channel around the second portion of one of the plurality of stems includes the step of fixing the second channel around a portion less than the entire cross-section of one of the plurality of stems. In some implementations, the step of fixing the first channel and the second channel around the first and second portions of one of a plurality of stems includes the step of fixing the first channel and the second channel to one of the plurality of stems such that the first channel and the second channel work together to surround the entire cross-section of one of the plurality of stems. In some implementations, the step of fixing the first channel and the second channel around the first and second portions of one of the plurality of stems includes the step of overlapping the portions of the first channel and the second channel with each other.

[0030] In some implementations, each of the first channel and the second channel comprises a web and opposing legs extending from the web, and the overlapping portions of the first channel and the second channel comprise the opposing legs of the first channel and the second channel. In some implementations, the step of fixing the first channel and the second channel to the first and second portions of one of a plurality of stems comprises fixing the first channel and the second channel such that the overlapping portions of the first channel and the second channel and the non-overlapping portions of the first channel and the second channel cooperate to define a substantially circular shape around one of the plurality of stems. In some implementations, the substantially circular shape includes an oval shape.

[0031] In some implementations, the step of forming the base further includes the step of forming a base having a first edge member extending along a first side surface of the base between a first end and a second end; the step of forming a base having a second edge member extending along a second side surface of the base between a first end and a second end; and the step of forming a base having a spine member extending along at least a portion of the length and positioned between the first edge member and the second edge member. In some implementations, the step of forming the plurality of openings in the base includes the step of forming a first plurality of spaced-apart openings between the first edge member and the spine member along at least a portion of the length; and the step of forming a second plurality of spaced-apart openings between the second edge member and the spine member along at least a portion of the length.

[0032] In some implementations, the step of forming the plurality of stems within the base includes the steps of forming a first plurality of stems, each of which is positioned between two of the first plurality of openings and extending between a first edge member and a spine member, and forming a second plurality of stems, each of which is positioned between two of the second plurality of openings and extending between a second edge member and a spine member. In some implementations, the first edge member, the second edge member, and the spine member are formed parallel to each other as a whole. In some implementations, the first edge member, the second edge member, and the spine member are integrally molded. In some implementations, the method further includes the step of forming a plurality of spine member openings spaced apart from each other along the length of the spine member, each of which is configured to receive a tongue of a buckle coupled to a separate strap of a wearable device, thereby allowing adjustment of the size of the closed loop formed by the strap and the separate strap.

[0033] This specification discloses a strap for a wearable device configured to be attached to a user's wrist, the wearable device configured to measure one or more physiological parameters of the user. In some implementations, the strap comprises a base having a one-piece structure made of a first material, the base having a first end configured to be attached to a part of a wearable device, a second end opposite to the first end, a length extending between the first end and the second end such that the base bends along the length and the strap wraps around at least a portion of the user's wrist when in use, a width extending between the two sides of the base, a plurality of openings spaced apart from each other along the length, and a plurality of stems, each positioned between two of the plurality of openings and generally extending in the direction of the width. The strap may further comprise a plurality of pairs of channels arranged around a plurality of stems, each of which comprises a first channel comprising a first channel comprising a second material, partially arranged around one of the plurality of stems such that the first channel surrounds less than the whole portion of one of the plurality of stems, and a second channel comprising a second material, partially arranged around one of the plurality of stems such that the first channel surrounds less than the whole portion of one of the plurality of stems. In some implementations, the first channel and the second channel are fastened together around one of the plurality of stems such that portions of the first channel and portions of the second channel overlap each other. In some implementations, the second material of the first channel and the second channel is less flexible than the first material of the base.

[0034] In some implementations, the first material includes stainless steel. In some implementations, the second material includes at least one of silicone and rubber. In some implementations, the first channel comprises a web and legs extending from both ends of the web of the first channel, and the second channel comprises a web and legs extending from both ends of the web of the second channel, with the legs of the first channel overlapping with the legs of the second channel. In some implementations, the webs of the first channel and the webs of the second channel do not overlap each other. In some implementations, the webs of the first and second channels are generally planar, and the legs of the first and second channels are curved. In some implementations, the legs of the first channel overlap only with the legs of the second channel.

[0035] In some implementations, one of the multiple stems consists of a top, a bottom opposite the top, and opposing sides connecting the top and bottom, with one side of the multiple stems positioned adjacent to the leg of the second channel, and the overlapping legs of the first and second channels, the non-overlapping portions of the first and second channels, and the side of the multiple stems working together to define a substantially circular shape around one of the multiple stems. In some implementations, the leg of the second channel is in contact with one side of the multiple stems, and the side of the multiple stems is configured such that at least a portion of each outer surface of the leg of the second channel is substantially flush with the plane of the top of one of the stems.

[0036] In some implementations, the base further comprises a first edge member that at least partially defines a first side surface of the base between a first end and a second end; a second edge member that at least partially defines a second side surface of the base between a first end and a second end, wherein the second side surface is opposite to the first side surface; and a spine member that extends along at least a portion of the length and is positioned between the first edge member and the second edge member, and is generally parallel to the first edge member and the second edge member. In some implementations, the plurality of openings comprises a first plurality of openings spaced apart from each other along at least a portion of the length and extending between the first edge member and the spine member; and a second plurality of openings spaced apart from each other along at least a portion of the length and extending between the second edge member and the spine member. In some implementations, the multiple stems comprise a first set of multiple stems, each positioned between two of the first set of multiple openings and extending between a first edge member and a spine member, and a second set of multiple stems, each positioned between two of the second set of multiple openings and extending between a second edge member and a spine member. In some implementations, the wearable device comprises one of the above-described straps, and the wearable device is configured to measure at least one of the user's oxygen saturation and pulse rate.

[0037] This specification discloses a strap for a wearable device configured to be attached to a user's wrist. In some implementations, the strap comprises a base having a one-piece structure made of a first material, the base comprising a first end configured to be attached to a part of a wearable device, a second end opposite to the first end, a length extending between the first and second ends, a width extending between both sides of the base, a plurality of openings spaced apart from each other along the length, and a plurality of stems, each positioned between two of the plurality of openings and generally extending in the width direction. In some implementations, the strap further comprises a plurality of pairs of channels arranged around the plurality of stems, each of which comprises a first channel at least partially arranged around one of the plurality of stems and a second channel at least partially arranged around one of the plurality of stems and attached to the first channel, the first channel and the second channel being made of a second material less flexible than the first material of the base.

[0038] In some implementations, the first material includes a metallic material, and the second material includes at least one of silicone and rubber. In some implementations, the first and second channels are not integrated with each other. In some implementations, the first channel comprises a web and legs extending from the opposite side of the web of the first channel, and the second channel comprises a web and legs extending from the opposite side of the web of the second channel, with the legs of the first channel overlapping with the legs of the second channel. In some implementations, the webs of the first and second channels do not overlap with each other. In some implementations, one of the multiple stems comprises a top, a bottom opposite the top, and opposing sides connecting the top and bottom, with one side of the multiple stems in contact with the leg of a second channel, the leg of the second channel sandwiched between the side of the multiple stems and the leg of the first channel, and the overlapping legs of the first and second channels, the non-overlapping portions of the first and second channels, and the side of the multiple stems working together to define a substantially circular shape around one of the multiple stems.

[0039] This specification discloses a strap for a wearable device configured to be attached to a part of a user's body, comprising a base and a plurality of strap members attached to and / or around the base. In some implementations, the base comprises a first material and further comprises a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a length extending between the first end and the second end, a plurality of openings spaced apart from each other along the length, and a plurality of stems, each positioned between two of the plurality of openings. In some implementations, the plurality of strap members are arranged around the plurality of stems and comprise a second material less flexible than the first material.

[0040] In some implementations, the first material includes a metallic material, and the second material includes at least one of silicone and rubber. In some implementations, the multiple strap members comprise multiple pairs of channels arranged around multiple stems, each of which comprises a first channel partially arranged around one of the multiple stems such that the first channel surrounds less than the whole portion of one of the multiple stems, and a second channel partially arranged around one of the multiple stems such that the second channel surrounds less than the whole portion of one of the multiple stems. In some implementations, the first and second channels are fastened together around one of the multiple stems such that portions of the first and second channels overlap each other.

[0041] Various implementations of the straps disclosed herein may be described with reference to wearable devices that measure and / or monitor the wearer's physiological parameters and / or characteristics, but any of the straps disclosed herein can be used with wearable devices that do not measure and / or monitor the wearer's physiological parameters and / or characteristics. For example, any of the straps disclosed herein can be used with a wristwatch that does not measure and / or monitor the wearer's physiological parameters and / or characteristics. In such configurations, various implementations of the straps disclosed herein can advantageously provide the wearer with enhanced comfort, for example, through the incorporation of metal and flexible materials, such as metal channel members fixed to the non-metallic (e.g., silicone and / or rubber) body of the strap.

[0042] For the purpose of summarizing this disclosure, certain aspects, advantages, and novel features are discussed herein. Not all such aspects, advantages, or features are necessarily embodied in any particular embodiment of this disclosure, and those skilled in the art will understand that a multitude of combinations of such aspects, advantages, or features will be recognized from the disclosure herein.

[0043] Specific features of this disclosure are described below with reference to the drawings. The illustrated embodiments are intended to illustrate, but not to limit, embodiments. Various features of different disclosed embodiments may be combined to form further embodiments that are part of this disclosure. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0044] [Figure 1A] This is a perspective view of a wearable device equipped with a strap according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 1B] This is a perspective view of a wearable device equipped with a strap according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 1C] These are perspective views of the wearable device and strap shown in Figures 1A and 1B, fixed to the user's wrist according to an aspect of this disclosure. [Figure 2] These are schematic diagrams illustrating specific features that can be incorporated into the wearable devices shown in Figures 1A to 1C according to aspects of this disclosure. [Figure 3A] Figures 1A to 1C are exploded perspective views of the wearable device according to the embodiments of this disclosure. [Figure 3B] Figures 1A to 1C are exploded perspective views of the wearable device according to the embodiments of this disclosure. [Figure 3C] Figures 1A to 1C show a top perspective view of the strap of the wearable device according to an aspect of this disclosure. [Figure 3D] This is a bottom perspective view of the strap of Figure 3C according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 3E] Figure 3C is an exploded perspective view of the strap according to an aspect of this disclosure. [Figure 3F] This is an exploded side view of the strap shown in Figure 3C according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 3G] This is a perspective view of a cross-section through the strap in Figure 3C according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 3H] Figure 3G is a perspective view in which a portion of the strap in Figure 3C according to an aspect of this disclosure has been removed. [Figure 3I]This is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the strap shown in Figure 3H according to an aspect of this disclosure. [Figure 3J] This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the strap in Figure 3C according to an aspect of this disclosure. [Figure 3K] This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the strap in Figure 3C according to an aspect of this disclosure. [Figure 4A] This is a top perspective view of the strap according to the embodiments of this disclosure. [Figure 4B] This is a bottom perspective view of the strap of Figure 4A according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 4C] This is an exploded perspective view of the strap shown in Figure 4A according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 4D] This is an exploded side view of the strap shown in Figure 4A according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 4E] This is a perspective view of a cross-section through the strap in Figure 4A according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 4F] This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the strap in Figure 4A according to an aspect of this disclosure. [Figure 5A] This is a top perspective view of the strap according to the embodiments of this disclosure. [Figure 5B] This is a bottom perspective view of the strap of Figure 5A according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 5C] This is an exploded perspective view of the strap in Figure 5A according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 5D] This is an exploded side view of the strap shown in Figure 5A according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 5E] This is a perspective view of the partially assembled strap of Figure 5A according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 5F] This is a perspective view of a cross-section through the strap in Figure 5A according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 5G] This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the strap shown in Figure 5A according to an aspect of this disclosure. [Figure 5H] This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the strap shown in Figure 5A according to an aspect of this disclosure. [Figure 6A] This is a top perspective view of the strap according to the embodiments of this disclosure. [Figure 6B]This is a bottom perspective view of the strap of Figure 6A according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 6C] This is a perspective view of a cross-section through the strap in Figure 5A according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 6D] This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the strap in Figure 6A according to an aspect of this disclosure. [Figure 6E] This figure shows an exemplary method for manufacturing the strap shown in Figure 6A according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 6F] This figure shows an exemplary method for manufacturing the strap shown in Figure 6A according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 6G] This figure shows an exemplary method for manufacturing the strap shown in Figure 6A according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 6H] This figure shows an exemplary method for manufacturing the strap shown in Figure 6A according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 6I] This figure shows an exemplary method for manufacturing the strap shown in Figure 6A according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 6J] This figure shows an exemplary method for manufacturing the strap shown in Figure 6A according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 6K] This figure shows an exemplary method for manufacturing the strap shown in Figure 6A according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 6L] This figure shows an exemplary method for manufacturing the strap shown in Figure 6A according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0045] While specific embodiments and examples are described below, those skilled in the art will recognize that this disclosure extends beyond the embodiments and / or uses specifically disclosed herein, as well as their obvious modifications and equivalents. Therefore, the scope of the disclosure disclosed herein is not intended to be limited by any specific embodiment described below.

[0046] Daily use of wearable health monitoring devices is beneficial for the wearer. Wearable devices incorporating pulse oximetry components can be used to measure and / or monitor various physiological parameters and / or characteristics, such as oxygen saturation (SpO2), pulse rate, plethysmographic waveform, perfusion index (PI), pulse variability index (PVI), methemoglobin (MetHb), carboxyhemoglobin (CoHb), total hemoglobin (tHb), glucose, and electrocardiogram (ECG) parameters.

[0047] Figures 1A and 1B show perspective views of wearable device 1. Wearable device 1 may comprise one or more straps. For example, wearable device 1 may comprise strap 100a and strap 100b. Straps 100a and 100b may be configured to be secured to a part of the user's body. For example, straps 100a and 100b may be secured around the user's wrist and / or secured to each other. While the straps disclosed herein may be described and / or shown with reference to the wearer's wrist, any of the straps disclosed herein may be configured to be secured to other parts of the wearer's body, particularly the ankle, leg, arm, or chest.

[0048] Figure 1C shows a wearable device 1 secured around a user's wrist 2. The wearable device 1 (e.g., straps 100a and / or straps 100b) may include a mechanism configured to allow straps 100a and 100b to be secured around a part of the user's body (e.g., wrist 2). Referring, for example, to Figures 1A-1B and 3A-3B, the wearable device 1 may include a buckle 190 that facilitates securing straps 100a and 100b to each other. The buckle 190 may include a buckle body 192 and a tongue 194 (which may also be called the “buckle tongue”). The straps 100a and 100b can be fastened to each other by inserting at least a portion of strap 100a through an opening defined by the buckle body 192 and inserting the tongue 194 through one of the multiple openings in strap 100a (such as one of the multiple openings 124 in strap 100b, as shown in Figures 3C to 3D and discussed further below). The buckle 190 can be coupled to the end of strap 100b. For example, the buckle 190 can be coupled to the end of strap 100b via a pin extending through a through hole in the end of strap 100b and an opposing hole in the buckle body 192. Such fastening allows the buckle body 192 to be rotatably coupled to the end of strap 100b. In some implementations, as shown at least in Figure 1A, the tongue portion 194 may be coupled (e.g., rotatably coupled) to the end of the strap 100b via the aforementioned pin, which may extend, for example, through a through hole in the end of the strap 100b and at least partially through such opposing holes in the buckle body 192. As shown, the buckle body 192 may define an opening that can be configured to receive the end of the strap 100a (e.g., when coupled to the end of the strap 100b) to facilitate the fastening of the straps 100a, 100b and / or the formation of a closed loop around a part of the wearer's body.

[0049] The wearable device 1 may be a wristwatch incorporating a plethysmographic sensor (which may also be called a “pulse oxygen meter,” “oximetry sensor,” or “optical sensor”) with a built-in clock and / or time display function. The straps 100a, 100b can be made flexible, as described in more detail below, thereby allowing the device 1 to adjust its tightness around the wearer’s wrist 2 to provide better contact between the plethysmographic sensor and the wrist 2 without compromising the wearer’s comfort and / or reducing blood flow to the wrist 2 in a manner that would reduce the accuracy of physiological parameter measurements by the plethysmographic sensor. Thus, in some implementations, the wearable device 1 can eliminate the need to wear additional sensors (e.g., pulse oximetry sensors) when performing daily activities. Integrating an oximetry sensor into the wearable device 1 can provide the benefit of monitoring physiological information in a separate (e.g., hidden) form. The wearer of the wearable device 1 can know physiological parameters such as vital signs, including but not limited to heart rate and oxygen saturation. This information may be useful in providing feedback to the wearer and / or third-party users, such as healthcare professionals or the wearer's family, while the wearer is exercising, or in alerting the wearer to potential health-related conditions, including but not limited to changes in the wearer's physiological parameters in response to medications being administered to the wearer.

[0050] Figure 2 shows an illustrative schematic diagram of certain features that can be incorporated into the wearable device 1. The wearable device 1 may include straps 100a, 100b and a module 10 which may be called an electronic module or a watch module (for example, if the wearable device 1 is worn on the wrist like a wristwatch). The watch module 10 may include strap connectors 12a, 12b that allow the straps 100a, 100b to be connected to the watch module 10. Such strap connectors 12a, 12b may be, for example, pin-type connections between the ends of the straps 100a, 100b and the watch module 10. For example, the strap connectors 12a, 12b may have one or more holes in a part of the watch module 10 (for example, the body of the watch module 10) that receive the end of a pin, such as the pin 403 shown in Figure 6A, which may extend through the holes in the ends of the straps 100a, 100b.

[0051] The clock module 10 may be similar to or identical to any of those described in U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 148,303, filed on January 13, 2021, entitled “Wearable Device with Physiological Parameter Monitoring,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The clock module 10 may include a physiological parameter measurement module 30 configured to measure an index of the wearer’s physiological parameters and / or characteristics, which may include, for example, pulse rate, respiratory rate, SpO2, pulse variability index (PVI), perfusion index (PI), respiration from pulse wave (RRp), hydration, and / or other parameters and / or characteristics. The physiological parameter measurement module 30 may include a skin interface cover enclosing one or more emitters 31a (such as LEDs) and one or more detectors 31b (such as photodiodes). Such a cover may include multiple lenses separated by multiple light barriers, as described, for example, in U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 148,303.

[0052] In some implementations, the watch module 10 includes a module processor 35 (which may include memory) for driving an emitter 31a that emits light of different wavelengths and / or processes one or more signals in response to light attenuated after absorption by the wearer's body tissues from the detector 31b. Optionally, the module processor 35 may also determine physiological parameters based on the detected signals and output them for display. Alternatively, the module 10 may send the signal from the detector 31b (e.g., a pre-processed signal) to a device processor 22, which may then determine physiological parameters based on the detected signals and output them for display. The absorption of light may be due to reflection and / or transmission reflection by pulsating arterial blood flowing within the wearer's body tissues, e.g., the tissue site where the wearable device 1 is attached (e.g., the wrist).

[0053] The emitter 31a of the pulse oxygen concentration meter module may be configured to emit multiple (e.g., three, four, or more) wavelengths. The emitter 31a may be configured to emit light of a first wavelength that provides an intensity signal that can function as a reference signal. The first wavelength may be more absorbed by the human body than light of other wavelengths emitted by the emitter 31a. The reference signal may be stronger and less susceptible to noise than signals from other wavelengths emitted by the emitter 31a. The reference signal may be used by the module processor 35 to extract information from other signals, such as pulsation rate, harmonics, or other related and / or indicating information. The module processor 35 may focus its analysis on the extracted information to calculate the wearer's physiological parameters. The first wavelength may be approximately 530 nm to approximately 650 nm, or approximately 580 nm to approximately 585 nm, or approximately 645 nm to approximately 650 nm, or approximately 580 nm, or approximately 645 nm. The light providing the reference signal may be orange in color. Alternatively, the light providing the reference signal may be green in color.

[0054] The emitter 31a may be configured to emit light having a second wavelength which has red color. The second wavelength may be from about 620 nm to about 660 nm. Light of the second wavelength may be more sensitive to changes in oxygen saturation (SpO2). The second wavelength is preferably close to 620 nm, which results in greater absorption by the wearer's body tissue and therefore a stronger signal and / or signal stepper curve than wavelengths closer to 660 nm. The module processor 35 can extract information such as pulse wave waveforms from the signal of the second wavelength.

[0055] The emitter 31a may be configured to emit light having a third wavelength of approximately 900 nm to 910 nm, or approximately 905 nm, or approximately 907 nm. The pulse oxygen concentration meter processor may use the third wavelength as a normalization wavelength when calculating the ratio of intensity signals of the other wavelengths.

[0056] Additionally or optionally, the emitter 31a may be configured to emit light having a fourth wavelength that is more sensitive to changes in water than the remaining emitted wavelengths. The fourth wavelength may be approximately 970 nm. The module processor 35 can determine physiological parameters, such as the wearer's hydration state, at least in part, based on a comparison of the fourth wavelength and the intensity signals of different wavelengths detected by a specific detector 31b. The detectors 31b used for hydration monitoring, which are described in more detail below, can be positioned at a predetermined distance from the emitter 31a so that the light passes through a specific depth of tissue before being detected by these detectors 31b.

[0057] The clock module 10 may optionally include one or more thermistors 32 or other types of temperature sensors. The thermistors 32 may be located near one or more groups of emitters 31a. The thermistors 32 may provide wavelength correction for the light emitted by the emitters 31a. Optionally, the thermistors 32 may further measure the temperature of the wearer of the wearable device 10. Optionally, one or more thermistors 32 may be located elsewhere on the clock module 10. The clock module 10 may include a gyroscope 36, an accelerometer 37, and / or other position and / or attitude detection sensors. Optionally, the module processor 35, gyroscope 36, and / or accelerometer 37 may be located on a printed circuit board (PCB) 34, shown as a dotted line in Figure 2. The emitters 31a, thermistors 32, and / or detectors 31b may also be located on the PCB 34 in some implementations.

[0058] As shown in Figure 2, the clock module 10 may include its own device processor 22, which can be a digital / analog chip or another processor such as a digital clock processor or a smartwatch processor. The clock module 10 may include a power supply 24, which may be a battery for powering the device processor 22, the display screen 20, and / or the pulse oxygen meter module 30. Optionally, the physiological parameter measurement module 30 may be pre-assembled before being integrated into the clock module 10. For example, the pre-assembled physiological parameter measurement module 30 may be secured within a device housing that includes two components detachably connected to each other using one or more screws or other fasteners. For example, an electrical connection may be established between the pulse oxygen meter module PCB 34, including the device processor 22 and the display 20, and the circuitry of the rest of the clock module 10. Optionally, the electrical connection may include a flexible circuit. The physiological parameter measurement module 30 may be characterized before being assembled together with the rest of the clock module 10. Alternatively, the housing of the physiological parameter measurement module 30 may be an integrated component of the housing of the clock module 10.

[0059] Optionally, as shown in Figure 2, the watch module 10 may include an electrocardiogram (ECG) sensor comprising a plurality of electrodes 43, 45 configured to contact the wearer's skin. One or more ECG electrodes 45 may be located in and / or within the physiological parameter measurement module 30. One or more ECG electrodes 43 may be located elsewhere in the watch module 10 (for example, the ECG electrodes 43 may form part of the housing of the watch module 10). The ECG sensor may communicate electrically with the module processor 35 via an ECG connector. Optionally, as shown in Figure 2, the watch module 10 may include one or more other sensors 47, such as one or more temperature sensors, magnetometers, moisture sensors, impedance sensors, acoustic sensors, etc.

[0060] Continuing to refer to Figure 2, in some implementations, the clock module 10 includes a communication module 41. The communication module 41 can facilitate communication (via wired and / or wireless connections) between the clock module 10 (and / or its components) and other devices such as another monitoring and / or mobile device. For example, the communication module 41 can be configured to allow the clock module 10 to communicate wirelessly with other devices, systems, and / or networks using any of a variety of communication protocols. The communication module 41 can be configured to use a variety of wireless communication protocols, such as Wi-Fi (802.11x), Bluetooth®, Zigbee®, Z-Wave®, cellular telephony, infrared, near-field communication (NFC), RFID, satellite transmission, proprietary protocols, or combinations thereof. The communication module 41 can be configured to send and / or receive data and / or commands to and from the clock module 10 and other computing devices. The communication module 41 may be configured to transmit (e.g., wirelessly) processed and / or unprocessed physiological or other information to other computing devices, which may include, among other things, mobile devices (e.g., iOS or Android-enabled smartphones, tablets, laptops), desktop computers, servers, or computing or processing devices for displays and / or other processing. Such other computing devices may be configured to store and / or further process the received physiological and / or other information, display information indicating or derived from the received information, and / or transmit information including displays, alarms, alerts, and notifications to various other types of computing devices and / or systems that may be associated with hospitals, caregivers (e.g., primary care providers, etc.), and / or users authorized to access the data in question (e.g., employers, schools, friends, family).As another example, the communication module 41 may be configured to wirelessly transmit processed and / or unprocessed obtained physiological and / or other information (e.g., motion and / or location data) to a mobile phone which may include one or more hardware processors configured to run an application that generates a graphical user interface displaying information representative of the processed and / or other physiological and / or other information. The communication module 41 may be a wireless transceiver and / or may include a wireless transceiver.

[0061] In some implementations, the watch module 10 includes a strain gauge 26 that can be used to measure the pressure of the watch module 10 and / or the wearable device 1 on the wearer. The strain gauge 26 may be similar to or identical to that described in U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 148,303.

[0062] Figures 3A to 3B show exploded perspective views of the wearable device 1 shown in Figures 1A to 1C. As shown, the wearable device 1 may include straps 100a and 100b, a watch module 10, and a buckle 190 which may include a buckle body 192 and a tongue 194, as discussed above. Straps 100a and / or strap 100b may include multiple materials. For example, straps 100a and / or strap 100b may include at least two materials. Straps 100a and / or strap 100b may include two materials having different material properties. For example, straps 100a and / or strap 100b may include two materials in which one of the two materials is more flexible (e.g., more stretchable) than the other material.

[0063] Referring to Figures 3A and 3B, strap 100a may include a base 110a (which may also be called the “body”), and / or strap 100b may include a base 110b (which may also be called the “body”). In some implementations, bases 110a and / or base 110b include a flexible (stretchable) material. In some implementations, bases 110a and / or base 110b include only one material, and such material may be flexible (e.g., stretchable). For example, bases 110a and / or base 110b may include rubber and / or elastomer materials such as silicone. In some implementations, bases 110a and / or base 110b do not include a metallic material.

[0064] Each of the straps 100a and / or strap 100b may include one or more strap members fixed to portions of the bases 110a and 110b along the length of the bases 110a and 110b. Such strap members can be fixed to various positions on the bases 110a and 110b. For example, such strap members may be fixed and / or operable by the bases 110a and 110b so as to come into contact with the wearer's skin when the straps 100a and / or strap 100b are in use (e.g., when the wearable device 1 is fixed to a part of the wearer's body). In some implementations, such strap members are fixed to internal portions of the bases 110a and 110b, e.g., portions of the bases 110a and 110b away from the edges and / or ends of the bases 110a and 110b. Such strap members may include a material that is less flexible (e.g., less elastic) than the material from which the bases 110a and 110b are made. For example, such strap members may include a metallic material such as stainless steel. In some implementations, such strap members do not include an elastomer material. In some implementations, such strap members do not include rubber and / or silicone. In some implementations, such strap members do not include leather and / or fabric material. Such strap members can be formed non-integrally with each other (e.g., separately from each other) and / or non-integrally with the bases 110a, 110b. In some implementations, such strap members limit the ability of the bases 110a, 110b to stretch, for example, along the width and / or length of the bases 110a, 110b and / or along the direction of an axis parallel to the width and / or length of the bases 110a, 110b. In some implementations, such strap members are smooth, thereby contributing to user comfort when the straps 100a, 100b are used and such strap members come into contact with the wearer's skin. Such strap members may be, for example, channels 150 and 152, which will be discussed further below.

[0065] Continuing to refer to Figures 3A and 3B, each of the straps 100a and 100b may include one or more channels 150, 152. The channels 150, 152 can be fixed to the bases 110a and 110b, for example, as will be discussed further below. Figures 3A and 3B show exemplary quantities of channels 150, 152, and / or how they can be arranged in rows and columns when fixed to the bases 110a and 110b and / or thereby operably positioned. The number and / or arrangement of channels 150, 152 may vary depending on the characteristics of the straps 100a and 100b, for example. For example, the number and / or arrangement of channels 150, 152 may vary depending on the length and / or width of the straps 100a and 100b, which themselves may vary depending on the intended size of the straps based on the wearer (e.g., small, medium, large, etc.). Therefore, the illustrated number and / or arrangement of channels 150, 152 is not intended to be limiting.

[0066] Channels 150 and 152 may contain a metallic material such as stainless steel. In some implementations, channels 150 and 152 contain only metallic material. In some implementations, channels 150 and 152 do not contain elastomer material. For example, in some implementations, channels 150 and 152 do not contain rubber and / or silicone. In some embodiments, channels 150 and 152 do not contain leather and / or fabric.

[0067] Continuing to refer to Figures 3A and 3B, the end of strap 100a can be secured to a part of the watch module 10, and / or the end of strap 100b can be secured to a part of the watch module 10. For example, the end of strap 100a can be secured to a part of the watch module 10 via a pin (e.g., pin 403 shown in Figure 6A) that extends through an opening (e.g., a through hole such as hole 129 shown in Figure 3C) at the end of base 110a which can be secured to a part of the watch module 10. Additionally or alternatively, the end of strap 100b can be secured to a part of the watch module 10 via a pin that extends through an opening (e.g., a through hole) at the end of base 110b which can be secured to a part of the watch module 10. Such securing allows straps 100a, 100b (e.g., bases 110a, 110b) to rotate relative to the watch module 10 and / or a part thereof, and in some implementations, straps 100a, 100b can wrap around a part of the wearer's body.

[0068] Figures 3C to 3K show different parts of strap 100a. Any or all of the features of strap 100a discussed below may be applicable to strap 100b. For example, strap 100b may include channels 150, 152, which are discussed below with reference to strap 100a. In some implementations, strap 100b includes a different amount (e.g., a smaller amount) of channels 150, 152 than strap 100a, and for example, strap 100a is longer than strap 100b. As discussed above, strap 100b can be coupled to buckle 190, and in some implementations where strap 100b is coupled to buckle 190, strap 100b is shorter than strap 100a. As can be seen in Figures 3A and 3B, in some implementations, the "free" ends of straps 100a and 100b (e.g., the ends not connected to the watch module 10) are different from each other, for example, when strap 100b is connected to a buckle 190 and strap 100a has a tip 126 that passes through the buckle 190 to facilitate size adjustment of the wearable device 1.

[0069] Figure 3C shows a top perspective view of the strap 100a, and Figure 3D shows a bottom perspective view of the strap 100a. The strap 100a may include a first end 112, a second end 114 opposite the first end 112, a length extending between ends 112 and 114, and a width extending between the sides of the strap 100a. Such ends 112 and 114, the length, the width, and the sides may be defined by the base 110a of the strap 100a.

[0070] Figure 3E shows an exploded perspective view of strap 100a, and Figure 3F shows an exploded side view of strap 100a. Figure 3G shows a cross-sectional view through strap 100a shown in Figure 3C, and Figure 3H shows strap 100a shown in Figure 3G with channels 150 and 152 removed to better show the portion of base 110a described below. Figure 3E shows exploded top and side perspective views of strap 110a with channels 150 and 152 separated from base 110a (e.g., exploded).

[0071] Referring at least to Figures 3C-3D and 3E, the base 110a may include a first end 112, a second end 114, and edge members 116, 118 that may extend to and / or along the sides of the base 110a between the ends 112, 114. The edge members 116, 118 may define the sides of the base 110a. As previously discussed, the strap 100a may be configured to connect to a part of the watch module 10. The base 110a may include a coupling mechanism that allows the base 110a (and therefore the strap 100a) to connect (e.g., detachably connect) to a part of the watch module 10. For example, in some implementations, a part of the base 110a is configured to receive a pin that can itself be secured to a part of the watch module 10. For example, the base 110a may include an opening 129 extending through at least a portion of the connecting portion 128, the opening 129 configured to receive a pin (such as pin 403 shown in Figure 6A) configured to be fixed to a portion of the clock module 10. The connecting portion 128 may extend at and / or along the end 112 of the base 110a. The connecting portion 128 may extend along a portion (e.g., the whole) of the width of the base 110a. The opening 129 may extend along all or part of the connecting portion 128. In some implementations, the connecting portion 128 is rounded (e.g., including at least a partially circular cross-section), and / or the opening 129 includes a circular cross-section. The connecting portion 128 can be connected to edge members 116, 118, and / or spine members 120 (discussed further below).

[0072] In some implementations, the base 110a includes a tip 126 at the end 114, where the end 114 may be on the opposite side of the end 112 from the connecting portion 128. The tip 126 can be configured to be inserted through an opening defined by the buckle body 192 when the buckle body 192 is coupled to the end of the strap 110b as described above. The tip 126 can be connected to the edge member 116, edge member 118, and / or spine member 120.

[0073] In some implementations, the base 110a includes one or more openings along its length and / or width between the ends 112, 114 and / or sides of the base 110a. For example, the base 110a may include 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 or more openings. As another example, the base 110a may include openings between 1 and 100, openings between 10 and 90, openings between 20 and 80, openings between 30 and 70, openings between 40 and 60, openings between 10 and 50, or openings between 20 and 30, or any number between any of these ranges, or any range enclosed by any combination of values ​​within these ranges. For example, referring to Figure 3H (showing a cross-section through the base 110a), the base 110a may include one or more openings 122. The openings 122 may be spaced apart from one another along the length of the base 110a between the ends 112, 114. For clarity, only portions of the openings 122 are labeled in Figures 3C–3D and 3G–3H. The base 110a may include one or more stems 130 positioned between the openings 122 and / or defined (e.g., at least partially defined) by the openings 122. For example, the base 110a may include stems 130 numbered 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 or more, and / or stems 130 between 1 to 100, between 10 to 90, between 20 to 80, between 30 to 70, between 40 to 60, between 10 to 50, or between 20 to 30, or any number within any of these ranges, or any combination of values ​​within these ranges. Each of the stems 130 may be spaced apart from one another by openings 122. Each of the stems 130 may be positioned between two of the openings 122, for example, as shown in the figure. Advantageously, the openings 122 can provide greater comfort to the wearer of the wearable device 1, including the strap 110a, by increasing breathability.Furthermore, in some implementations, the opening 122 can provide greater flexibility to the band 110a, allowing the band 110a to wrap more effectively around a part of the wearer's body.

[0074] In some implementations, the base 110a includes a spine member 120. The spine member 120 may extend along the length of the base 110a and / or a portion of such length between the ends 112, 114. For example, in some implementations of the base 110a, the spine member 120 extends between the joint portion 128 and the tip portion 126. The spine member 120 may extend along the interior of the base 110a. The spine member 120 may be spaced apart (e.g., inserted) from the edge members 116 and / or edge members 118. In some implementations, the spine member 120 is parallel to the edge members 116 and / or edge members 118. The spine member 120 can be separated from the edge members 116, 118 by, for example, a stem 130, which extends between the edge members 116, 118 and the spine member 120. In some implementations, the stem 130 is lateral (e.g., perpendicular) to the edge member 116, edge member 118, and / or spine member 120.

[0075] The spine member 120 may include one or more openings 124 configured to facilitate fastening of strap 100a to strap 100b. For clarity, in Figures 3C-3D and 3G-3H, only one of such openings 124 is labeled. The spine member 120 may include 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 or more openings 124, and / or openings 124 between 1 to 100, between 10 to 90, between 20 to 80, between 30 to 70, between 40 to 60, between 10 to 50, or between 20 to 30, or any number between any of these ranges, or any combination of values ​​within these ranges. The opening 124 may be sized and / or shaped to receive and position the tongue 194 of the buckle 190, allowing the straps 100a, 100b to form a closed loop around a part of the wearer's body (e.g., wrist, arm, ankle). By including multiple openings 124 in the spine member 120, the size of such a closed loop can be adjusted.

[0076] The number of stems 130 and / or openings 122 can be varied, and / or the stems 130 and / or openings 122 can be arranged in one or more rows and one or more columns. For example, as shown in Figure 3E, the band 110a may include multiple stems 130 arranged in two columns and multiple rows. Figure 3E shows a band 110a having multiple stems 130 arranged in two columns and twelve rows, but the band 110a may include a different number and / or arrangement of stems 130. In some implementations as shown in the figure, the band 110a may include two columns of stems 130 separated by a spine member 120.

[0077] In some implementations, portions of the band 110a are configured to facilitate bending and / or flexing around a part of the wearer's body during use (for example, if the strap 100a forms a closed loop around a part of the wearer's body). For example, in some implementations, the edge members 116, 118, and / or the spine member 120 include one or more integrally molded hinges that facilitate bending of the band 110a. Referring to Figure 3E, such integrally molded hinges may be defined by narrowing (each) portions 116a, 118a, and 120a of the edge members 116, 118, and 120a, respectively. The edge member 116, the edge member 118, and the spine member 120 may include 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 or more constricted portions 116a, 118a, 120a, and / or constricted portions 116a, 118a, 120a between 1 to 100, between 10 to 90, between 20 to 80, between 30 to 70, between 40 to 60, between 10 to 50, or between 20 to 30, or any number within any of these ranges, or any combination of values ​​within these ranges. In some implementations, the number of constricted portions 116a, 118a, and 120a of edge member 116, edge member 118, and spine member 120 (each) corresponds to the number of openings 122 in band 110a. The constricted portions 116a, 118a, and 120a may be defined by a decrease in cross-sectional area along edge member 116, edge member 118, and spine member 120. For example, the narrowed portions 116a, 118a, and 120a may be defined by a decrease in cross-sectional area resulting from a change in height (which may also be called "thickness") along edge member 116, edge member 118, and spine member 120 (each). In some implementations, band 110a includes multiple triads of constricted portions 116a, 118a, and 120a, each triad containing constricted portions 116a, 118a, and 120a. In some implementations, each of these triads aligns with one another and / or with one of the openings 122.

[0078] As previously mentioned, Figures 3E and 3F show exploded perspective views of the top and side of strap 100a. Figures 3E-3F also show channels 150 and 152 removed from band 110a, and Figure 3G shows channels 150 and 152 fixed to band 110a (e.g., fixed to stem 130). Figure 3I shows a magnified view of a portion of band 110a shown in Figure 3H. More specifically, Figure 3I shows a magnified view of one of the stems 130 adjacent to two openings 122. Figure 3J shows a magnified side view of channels 150 and 152 separated from stem 130 (e.g., disassembled from stem 130), and Figure 3K shows a magnified side view of channels 150 and 152 fixed to stem 130.

[0079] The channel 150 may be sized and / or shaped to be fixed to and / or surround the stem 130 or a portion thereof. In some implementations, the channel 150 is configured to surround a portion of the stem 130. In some implementations, the channel 150 is configured to surround a portion less than the entire cross-section of the stem 130. The channel 150 may include a web 150a and one or more legs extending from the web 150a. For example, the channel 150 may include one or both of legs 150b, 150c that may extend from the web 150a. The legs 150b, 150c may extend across (e.g., perpendicularly) the web 150a. The legs 150b, 150c may extend from the ends of the web 150a, e.g., both ends of the web 150a. In some implementations, the legs 150b, 150c are curved, for example, along all or part of their length. In some implementations, the legs 150b, 150c extend from the web 150a and curve toward each other. In some implementations, the legs 150b, 150c are curved along their entire length. In some implementations, the web 150a includes a length longer than one or both of the legs 150b, 150c. Alternatively, in some implementations, the web 150a has a length equal to or shorter than one or both of the legs 150b, 150c. In some implementations, the web 150a is nearly planar. In some implementations, the web 150a is not curved. In some implementations, the channel 150 is C-shaped.

[0080] The channel 152 may be sized and / or shaped to be fixed to and / or surround the stem 130 or a portion thereof. In some implementations, the channel 152 is configured to surround a portion of the stem 130. In some implementations, the channel 152 is configured to surround a portion less than the entire cross-section of the stem 130. The channel 152 may include a web 152a and one or more legs extending from the web 152a. For example, the channel 152 may include one or both of legs 152b, 152c that may extend from the web 152a. The legs 152b, 152c may extend across (e.g., perpendicularly) the web 152a. The legs 152b, 152c may extend from both ends of the web 152a, for example, from both ends of the web 152a. In some implementations, the legs 152b, 152c are curved, for example, along all or part of the length of the legs 152b, 152b. In some implementations, the legs 152b, 152c extend from the web 152a and curve toward each other. In some implementations, the legs 152b, 152c have notches 152d, 152e where the legs 152b, 152c connect to the web 152a and / or nearby. The notches 152d, 152e may be sized and / or shaped such that they are accommodated by portions of the sides 130c, 130d of the stem 130, as will be discussed in more detail below. In some implementations, the legs 152b, 152c are of a size and / or shape that accommodates the sides 130c, 130d of the stem 130 such that when positioned adjacent to the upper part 130a of the stem 130, the outer portions (e.g., outer surfaces) of the legs 152b, 152c form a rounded shape, as will be described in more detail below. In some implementations, the legs 152b, 152c include a continuous curve along only a portion of their length. For example, in some implementations where the legs 152b, 152c have notches 152d, 152e, the legs 152b, 152c include a continuous curve from the notches 152d, 152e to the free ends of the legs 152b, 152c. In some implementations, the web 152a includes a length longer than one or both of the legs 152b, 152c.Alternatively, in some implementations, the web 152a has a length equal to or shorter than one or both of the legs 152b, 152c. In some implementations, the web 152a is substantially planar. In some implementations, the web 152a is not curved. In some implementations, the channel 152 is C-shaped.

[0081] Referring to Figure 3J, the stem 130 may include a top 130a, a bottom 130b opposite the top 130a, and sides 130c, 130d. The bottom 130b may face the wearer's skin and / or be positioned closer to the wearer's skin than the top 130a when the strap 100a is used with the wearable device 1, for example, when it is secured to the wearer. The top 130a may face away from the wearer's skin and / or be positioned further away from the wearer's skin than the bottom 130b when the strap 100a is in use. Referring to Figures 3J to 3K, the sides 130c and 130d can be configured to accommodate the size and / or shape of the legs 152b and 152c of the channel 152 such that when the channel 152 is fixed to the stem 130 and the legs 152b and 152c are adjacent to and / or in contact with the sides 130c and 130d, the free ends of the legs 152b and 152c and the top 130a cooperate to form a generally smooth transition. For example, the outer surfaces of the legs 152b and 152c at their free ends may be substantially flush with the outer surface of the top 130a. The gap between the top 130a and the free ends of the legs 152b and 152c may be, for example, less than about 0.2 inches, less than about 0.1 inches, less than about 0.05 inches, less than about 0.01 inches, or less than about 0.005 inches in some implementations.

[0082] In some implementations, the legs 152b, 152c of channel 152 are configured to house and / or be fixed adjacent to the legs 150b, 150c of channel 150 (for example, when fixed to and / or around the stem 130) so that channel 150 and channel 152 cooperate to form a substantially circular shape. In some implementations, notches 152d, 152e are configured so that the free ends of the legs 150b, 150c of channel 150 contact the web 152a of channel 152, forming a generally smooth transition. In some implementations, the outer surfaces of the legs 150b, 150c at their free ends are substantially flush with the outer surface of the web 152a. The gap between the top web 152a and the free ends of the legs 150b, 150c may be, for example, less than approximately 0.2 inches, less than approximately 0.1 inches, less than approximately 0.05 inches, less than approximately 0.01 inches, or less than approximately 0.005 inches in some implementations. Continuing to refer to Figure 3K, in some implementations, when the channels 150, 152 are fixed to (and / or to) the stem 130, the channels 150, 152 and / or the stem 130 can form a substantially circular shape, such as an oval.

[0083] Channels 150 and / or 152 may surround less than the entire stem 130 when fixed to the stem 130 and / or to each other. In some implementations, when fixed to the stem 130, channels 150 and / or 152 surround less than approximately 90%, less than approximately 80%, less than approximately 70%, or less than approximately 60% of the cross-section of the stem 130. Additionally or alternatively, in some implementations, when fixed to the stem 130, channels 150 and / or 152 surround at least approximately 10%, at least approximately 20%, at least approximately 30%, at least approximately 40%, at least approximately 50%, at least approximately 60%, at least approximately 70%, or at least approximately 80% of the cross-section of the stem 130.

[0084] When channels 150 and 152 are fixed to stem 130 and / or to each other, parts of channels 150 and 152 may overlap with each other. For example, in some implementations, when channels 150 and 152 are fixed to stem 130, parts of channel 150 overlap with parts of channel 152. As another example, in some implementations, when channels 150 and 152 are fixed to stem 130, one or both of the legs 150b and 150c of channel 150 overlap with one or both of the legs 152b and 152c of channel 152. In some implementations, only the legs 150b and 150c of channel 150 overlap with parts of channel 152 (e.g., legs 152b and 152c). In some implementations, when channels 150 and 152 are fixed to the stem 130, the legs 152b and 152c are sandwiched between the sides 130c and 130d of the stem 130 and the legs 150b and 150c. In some implementations, the overlapping portions of channels 150 and 152 (e.g., legs 150b, 150c, 152b, 152c) and the non-overlapping portions of channels 150 and 152 (e.g., webs 150a and 152a) form a substantially circular shape when fixed to each other and / or around the stem 130. Such a substantially circular shape may be, for example, an oval shape. In some implementations, the stem 130, channel 150, and channel 152 cooperate when fixed to each other to form a substantially circular shape (e.g., an oval shape). For example, in some implementations, when channel 150, channel 152, and stem 130 are fixed to each other, the sides 130c, 130d, the overlapping parts of channels 150 and 152 (e.g., legs 150b, 150c, 152b, 152c), and the non-overlapping parts of channels 150 and 152 (e.g., webs 150a, 152a) form a roughly circular shape.

[0085] Continuing to refer to Figure 3J, in some implementations, the stem 130 has a height h1 that is smaller than the height h2 of the spine member 120. Heights h1 and h2 may be perpendicular to the length of the strap 100a extending between the ends 112, 114 of the strap 100a (see, for example, Figure 3C), and / or heights h1 and h2 may be perpendicular to the width of the strap 100a (and / or base 110a) extending from the side of the strap 100a (and / or base 110a) (which may be defined by edge members 116, 118). Heights h1 and h2 can also be called the thickness of the stem 130 and the spine member 120, respectively. As shown in Figure 3J and discussed earlier, the spine member 120 may include a constricted portion 120a which may be defined by a height h3. Height h3 may be smaller than height h2. Height h3 may be greater than or equal to height h1.

[0086] The strap 100a can be manufactured and / or assembled in various ways. In some implementations, the band 110a is formed by a molding (e.g., injection molding) process. For example, the ends 112, 114, edge members 116, 118, spine member 120, stem 130, tip 126, and / or joint 128 can be formed by injection molding of a material, such as an elastomer material. Such elastomer materials may include, for example, silicone and / or rubber. Such a molding process can be used to form the openings 124, 122, and / or 129, all of which are discussed elsewhere in this specification. The channels 150, 152 can be formed from a metallic material (e.g., by an extrusion process). As discussed earlier, the channels 150, 152 may include stainless steel. In some implementations, the channels 150, 152 consist only of metallic material. In some implementations, the number of channels 150 and 152 corresponds to the number of stems 130 in the base 110a. After channels 150 and 152 are formed, they can be fixed to the stems 130 of the base 110, for example, as shown in Figures 3G and 3K. For example, channel 152 can be fixed around at least a portion of the stem 130, and then channel 150 can be fixed around at least a portion of the stem 130 and at least a portion of channel 152. In some implementations, channels 150 and / or channel 152 can be snap-fastened around the stem 130 and / or engage with each other. In some implementations, channels 150 and 152 are configured to be removablely attached by a user (e.g., the wearer of the wearable device 1 including the strap 100a) and / or fixed to the stem 130. Alternatively, in some implementations, channels 150, 152 are configured not to be removable by the user (e.g., the wearer of wearable device 1 including strap 100a) and / or are fixed to stem 130.

[0087] Figures 4A to 4F show the strap 200a. The strap 200a can be used with the wearable device 1 and / or the watch module 10 in the same or identical manner as described elsewhere in this specification with reference to the strap 100a. Furthermore, the wearable device 1 may include two straps, for example, having some, many, or all of the features described below with respect to the strap 200a, so that the wearable device 1 can be secured around a part of the wearer's body with the two straps 200a. The strap 200a may be similar or identical to the strap 100a in some or many respects. Referring at least to Figures 4A and 4B, the strap 200a may include a base 210a (which may also be called the “body”), ends 212, 214, a length extending between ends 212 and 214, edge members 216 and 218, and / or sides that can be defined thereby, a tip 226 at or near end 214, and / or a connecting portion 228 including an opening 229 at or near end 212. The ends 212, 214, edge members 216 and 218, tip 226, connecting portion 228, and / or opening 229 may be similar to or identical to the ends 112, 114, edge members 116 and 118, tip 126, connecting portion 128, and / or opening 129 described above with reference to strap 100a. Similar to strap 100a, strap 200a may include two or more materials. For example, strap 200a may include at least two materials. The strap 200a may include two materials having different material properties. For example, the strap 200a may include two materials in which one of the two materials is more flexible (e.g., more stretchable) than the other. In some implementations, the base 210a includes a flexible (e.g., stretchable) material. In some implementations, the base 210a includes only one material, and such material may be flexible (e.g., stretchable). For example, the base 210a may include an elastomer material such as rubber and / or silicone. In some implementations, the base 210a does not include a metallic material.

[0088] Similar to strap 100a, strap 200a may include one or more strap members that are fixed to a portion of base 210a along the length of base 210a and can be fixed to various positions on base 210a. Such strap members may include a material that is less flexible (e.g., less elastic) than the material from which base 210a is made. For example, such strap members may include a metallic material such as stainless steel. In some implementations, such strap members do not include elastomer material. In some implementations, such strap members do not include rubber and / or silicone. In some implementations, such strap members do not include leather and / or fabric material. Such strap members can be formed non-integrally with each other (e.g., separately from each other) and / or non-integrally with base 210a. In some implementations, such strap members limit the ability of the base 210a to stretch, for example, along the width and / or length of the base 210a and / or along the direction of an axis parallel to the width and / or length of the base 210a. Such strap members may be, for example, channels 250. The strap 200a may include one or more channels 250.

[0089] Figures 4C to 4D show exemplary quantities of channels 250, and / or how they can be arranged in rows and columns when fixed to the base 210a and / or thereby operably positioned. The number and / or arrangement of channels 250 may vary depending, for example, on the characteristics of the strap 200a. For example, the number and / or arrangement of channels 250 may vary depending on the length and / or width of the strap 200a, which itself may vary depending on the intended size of the strap based on the wearer (e.g., small, medium, large, etc.). Therefore, the illustrated number and / or arrangement of channels 250 is not intended to be limiting. Channels 250 may include metallic materials such as stainless steel. In some implementations, channels 250 include only metallic materials. In some implementations, channels 250 do not include elastomer materials. For example, in some implementations, channels 250 do not include rubber and / or silicone. In some implementations, channels 250 do not include leather and / or fabric.

[0090] The base 210a may include one or more openings 222 along its length and / or width between the ends 212, 214 and / or sides of the base 210a. Referring to Figure 4B, the number and / or arrangement of the openings 222 can be varied, and the number of openings 222 can be equal to the values ​​discussed above with reference to the base 110a, for example. The openings 222 can be spaced apart from one another along the length of the base 210a between the ends 212, 214. For clarity, only portions of the openings 222 are labeled in Figures 4A–4C. The base 210a may include one or more stems 230 positioned between the openings 222 and / or defined (e.g., at least partially defined) by the openings 222. The number and / or arrangement of the stems 230 can be varied, and the number of stems 230 can be equal to the values ​​discussed above with reference to the base 110a, for example. Each of the stems 230 can be spaced apart from one another by the openings 222. Each of the stems 230 may be positioned between two openings 222, for example, as shown in the figure. The openings 222 can offer the same or the same advantages as those discussed above with respect to the openings 122.

[0091] The base 210a may include a spine member 220 which may be similar or identical in some respects to the spine member 120. The spine member 220 may extend along the length of the base 210a and / or a portion of such length between the ends 212, 214. For example, in some implementations of the base 210a, the spine member 220 extends between the connecting portion 228 and the tip portion 226. The spine member 220 may extend along the interior of the base 210a. The spine member 220 may be spaced apart (e.g., inserted) from the edge members 216 and / or 218. In some implementations, the spine member 220 is parallel to the edge members 216 and / or 218. The spine member 220 may be separated from the edge members 216, 218 by, for example, a stem 230, which extends between the edge members 216, 218 and the spine member 220. In some implementations, the stem 230 is lateral (e.g., perpendicular) to the edge members 216, 218, and / or the spine member 220. The spine member 220 may contain one or more openings 224, which may be similar to or identical to the openings 124 described above with respect to the spine member 120. For clarity, only a portion of the openings 124 are labeled in Figures 4A to 4C. The number and / or arrangement of the openings 224 can be varied, and the number of openings 224 may be equal to the values ​​discussed above with reference to, for example, the spine member 120.

[0092] Similar to those discussed with reference to the stems 130 and openings 122 above, the number of stems 230 and / or openings 222 can vary, and the stems 130 and openings 222 can be arranged, for example, in one or more rows and one or more columns. Referring to Figure 4B, in some implementations, the bottom surfaces of the stems 230 and spine members 220 extend and / or are defined along a common plane or surface that defines the bottom surface of the base 210a.

[0093] The band 210a (and / or part thereof) may be configured to facilitate bending and / or flexing around a part of the wearer's body when used in the same or identical manner as discussed above with reference to band 110a. For example, the edge members 216, 218, and / or the spine member 220 may include one or more integrally molded hinges that facilitate bending of the band 210a. Such integrally molded hinges may be defined by narrowing (each) portion 216a, 218a, 220a of the edge members 216, 218, and 220 of the spine member 220. The constricted portions 216a, 218a, and 220a may be the same as or identical to the constricted portions 116a, 118a, and 120a discussed above with reference to the edge member 116, edge member 118, and spine member 120, and the number of constricted portions 216a, 218a, and 220a may be the same as those discussed above with reference to the edge member 116, edge member 118, and spine member 120.

[0094] Figures 4C and 4D show exploded perspective views of the top and side of the strap 200a. Figures 4C-4D also show the channel 250 removed from the base 210a (e.g., disassembled). Figure 4E shows a cross-section of the strap 200a shown in Figure 4A, and further shows the channel 250 fixed to the base 210a (e.g., fixed to the stem 230). Figure 4F shows an enlarged side view of the channel 250 fixed to the stem 230.

[0095] The channel 250 may be sized and / or shaped to be fixed to and / or surround the stem 230 or a portion thereof. In some implementations, the channel 250 is configured to surround a portion of the stem 230. In some implementations, the channel 250 is configured to surround a portion less than the entire cross-section of the stem 230. The channel 250 may include a web 250a and one or more legs extending from the web 250a. For example, the channel 250 may include one or both of legs 250b, 250c that may extend from the web 250a. The legs 250b, 250c may extend across (e.g., perpendicularly) the web 250a. The legs 250b, 250c may extend from both ends of the web 250a, for example, from both ends of the web 250a. In some implementations, the legs 250b, 250c are curved, for example, along all or part of their length. In some implementations, the legs 250b, 250c extend from the web 250a and curve toward each other. In some implementations, the legs 250b, 250c are curved along their entire length. In some implementations, the web 250a includes a length longer than one or both of the legs 250b, 250c. Alternatively, in some implementations, the web 250a has a length equal to or shorter than one or both of the legs 250b, 250c. In some implementations, the web 250a is nearly flat. In some implementations, the web 250a is not curved. In some implementations, the channel 250 includes a C-shape.

[0096] Referring at least to Figure 4F, the stem 230 may include a top 230a, a bottom 230b opposite the top 230a, and sides 230c, 230d. When the strap 200a is used, for example when the wearable device 1 is secured to the user, the bottom 230b may face the wearer's skin and / or be positioned closer to the wearer's skin than the top 230a, and the top 230a may face away from the wearer's skin and / or be positioned further away from the wearer's skin than the bottom 230b. The top 230a and sides 230c, 230d may be configured to accommodate the size and / or shape of the web 250a and legs 250b, 250c of the channel 250 such that when the channel 250 is fixed to the stem 230, the web 250a is positioned adjacent to and / or in contact with the top 230a and the legs 250b, 250c are positioned adjacent to and / or in contact with the sides 230c, 230d. The bottom 230b may be configured to accommodate the size and / or shape of the ends of the legs 250b, 250c such that when the channel 250 is fixed to the stem 230, the ends of the legs 250b, 250c are adjacent to and / or in contact with the bottom 230b. The bottom 230b and the ends of the legs 250b, 250c can cooperate to form a generally smooth transition. For example, the outer surfaces of the ends of the legs 250b, 250c may be substantially flush with the outer surface of the base portion 230b. In some implementations, the distance that the base 230b extends (e.g. downward) from the rest of the stem 230 may be substantially equal to the thickness of the legs 250b and / or legs 250c, so that the outer surfaces of the base 230b and the legs 250b, 250c are substantially flush. In some implementations, the ends of the legs 250b, 250c are separated by a gap G1 which can be substantially equal to the width of the base 230b.

[0097] When the channel 250 is fixed to the stem 230, it can surround less than the entire portion of the stem 230. In some implementations, when the channel 250 is fixed to the stem 230, it surrounds less than approximately 90%, less than approximately 80%, less than approximately 70%, or less than approximately 60% of the cross-section of the stem 230. Additionally or alternatively, in some implementations, when the channel 250 is fixed to the stem 230, it surrounds at least approximately 10%, at least approximately 20%, at least approximately 30%, at least approximately 40%, at least approximately 50%, at least approximately 60%, at least approximately 70%, or at least approximately 80% of the cross-section of the stem 230.

[0098] In some implementations, when the channel 250 is fixed to the stem 230, the channel 250 and the stem 230 can form a substantially circular shape, such as an oval. In some implementations, the channel 250 is formed to include a gap G1, and the channel 250 can be bent (e.g., temporarily bent) to allow the channel 250 to be positioned and / or fixed around the stem 230. In some implementations, the channel 250 can snap-engage around the stem 230.

[0099] The strap 200a can be manufactured and / or assembled in various ways. In some implementations, the band 210a is formed by a molding (e.g., injection molding) process. For example, the ends 212, 214, edge members 216, 218, spine member 220, stem 230, tip 226, and / or joint 228 can be formed by injection molding of a material, such as an elastomer material. Such elastomer materials may include, for example, silicone and / or rubber. Openings 224, 222, and / or 229 can be formed using such a molding process. The channel 250 can be formed from a metallic material (e.g., by an extrusion process). As discussed earlier, the channel 250 may include stainless steel. In some implementations, the channel 250 contains only metallic material. In some implementations, the number of channels 250 corresponds to the number of stems 230 in the base 210a. After the channel 250 is formed, it can be fixed to the stem 230 of the base 210a. In some implementations, the channel 250 is configured to be removable by the user (e.g., the wearer of the wearable device 1 including the strap 200a) and / or fixed to the stem 230. Alternatively, in some implementations, the channel 250 is configured not to be removable by the user (e.g., the wearer of the wearable device 1 including the strap 200a) and / or fixed to the stem 230.

[0100] Figures 5A to 5F show the strap 300a. The strap 300a can be used with the wearable device 1 and / or watch module 10 in the same or identical manner as described elsewhere in this specification with reference to the strap 100a. The strap 300a may be similar or identical to the strap 100a in some or many respects. Referring at least to Figures 5A to 5B, the strap 300a may include a base 310a (which may also be called the “body”), an end 312, an end 314 opposite to the end 312, a length extending between the ends 312 and 314, edge members 316 and 318, a tip 326 at or near the end 314, and / or a connecting portion 328 including an opening 329 at or near the end 312. The ends 312, 314, edge members 316, 218, tip 326, connecting portion 328, and / or opening 329 may be similar to or identical to the ends 112, 114, edge members 116, 118, tip 126, connecting portion 128, and / or opening 129 described above with reference to strap 100a. The base 310a may be similar to or identical to the base 110a in some or many respects. For example, the base 310a may include one or more openings 322 which may be similar to or identical to the opening 122 discussed above with respect to base 110a. As another example, the base 310a may include a spine member 320 which may be similar to or identical to the spine member 120 discussed above. The spine member 320 may include one or more of a plurality of openings 324 which may be similar to or identical to the opening 324, and the number of openings 324 in the spine member 320 may be similar to or identical to the number of openings 124 discussed above with respect to the spine member 120. Referring at least to Figure 5C, the edge members 316, 318, and spine member 320 may include constricted portions 316a, 318a, and 320a which may be (respectively) identical to the constricted portions 116a, 118a, and 120a discussed above with respect to the edge members 116, 118, and spine member 120. In some implementations, the strap 300a is identical to the strap 100a, except for the stem 330 and channel 350 which will be discussed further below.The number of openings 322, 324, and / or stems 330 may be the same as or identical to the number of openings 122, 124, and / or stems 130 discussed above with respect to the base 110a.

[0101] The base 310a may include a flexible (e.g., stretchable) material. In some implementations, the base 310a may include only one material, and such material may be flexible (e.g., stretchable). For example, 310a may include an elastomer material such as rubber and / or silicone. In some implementations, the base 310a does not include a metallic material.

[0102] Similar to strap 100a, strap 300a may include one or more stems 330. Figures 5C-5D show channel 350 removed (e.g., disassembled) from base 310a. Referring at least to Figures 5G-5H, stem 330 may include a round cross-section. Stem 330 may include an oval shape. Stem 330 may include a top 330a, a bottom 330b opposite to top 330a, and sides 330c, 330d. When strap 300a is in use, for example, when wearable device 1 is secured to the user, bottom 330b may face the wearer's skin and / or be positioned closer to the wearer's skin than top 330a, and top 330a may face away from the wearer's skin and / or be positioned further away from the wearer's skin than bottom 330b.

[0103] The channel 350 may include a web 350a and one or more legs extending from the web 350a. For example, the channel 350 may include one or both of legs 350b, 350c that may extend from the web 350a. The legs 350b, 350c may extend across the web 350a (e.g., perpendicularly). The legs 350b, 350c may extend from both ends of the web 350a, e.g., both ends of the web 350a. In some implementations, the web 350a has a length longer than one or both of the legs 350b, 350c. Alternatively, in some implementations, the web 350a has a length equal to or shorter than one or both of the legs 350b, 350c. In some implementations, the web 350a is substantially planar.

[0104] Channel 350 may contain a metallic material such as stainless steel. In some implementations, channel 350 contains only metallic material. In some implementations, channel 350 does not contain elastomer material. For example, in some implementations, channel 350 does not contain rubber and / or silicone. In some implementations, channel 350 does not contain leather and / or fabric.

[0105] The channel 350 may be fixed to the base 310a in various ways. The channel 350 may be fixed to the stem 330 by inserting the legs 350b, 350c at least partially into the opening 322 of the base 310a. Figures 5C–5D show the channel 350 positioned on the stem 330 (e.g., before inserting the legs 350b, 350c through the opening 322), and Figures 5E and 5G show the channel 350 and stem 330 after such insertion. In some implementations, after the legs 350b, 350c are inserted through the opening 322, the legs 350b, 350c may be bent (e.g., crimped) around the stem 330 as shown in Figures 5F and 5H. In some implementations, the channel 350 is fixed to the stem so as to surround the entire cross-section of the stem 330. In some implementations, the channel 350 is fixed to the stem such that it surrounds the entire cross-section of the stem 330, for example, such that a gap G2 exists between the ends of the legs 350b, 350c when fixed around the stem 330. In some implementations, when fixed to the stem 330, the channel 350 surrounds at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or at least about 95% of the cross-section of the stem 330. Additionally or alternatively, in some implementations, the channel 350 surrounds more than about 80% but less than 100% of the cross-section of the stem 330, more than about 90% but less than 100% of the cross-section of the stem 330, or more than about 95% but less than 100% of the cross-section of the stem 330. In some implementations, the gap G2 is less than approximately 0.5 inches, for example, less than approximately 0.4 inches, less than approximately 0.3 inches, less than approximately 0.2 inches, less than approximately 0.1 inches, less than approximately 0.05 inches, less than approximately 0.01 inches, or less than approximately 0.005 inches.

[0106] Figures 6A to 6D show the strap 400a. The strap 400a may be used with the wearable device 1 and / or watch module 10 in the same or identical manner as described elsewhere in this specification with reference to the strap 100a. The strap 400a may be similar or identical to the strap 100a in some or many respects. Referring at least to Figures 6A to 6B, the strap 400a may include a base 410a (which may also be called the “body”), an end 412, an end 414 opposite to the end 412, a length extending between the ends 412 and 414, edge members 416 and 418 and / or sides that can be defined thereby, a tip 426 at or near the end 414, and / or a connecting portion 428 including an opening 429 at or near the end 412. The ends 412, 414, edge members 416, 218, tip 426, connecting portion 428, and / or opening 429 may be similar to or identical to the ends 112, 114, edge members 116, 118, tip 126, connecting portion 128, and / or opening 129 described above with reference to strap 100a. The base 410a may be similar to or identical to the base 110a in some or many respects. For example, the base 410a may include one or more openings 422 which may be similar to or identical to the opening 122 discussed above with respect to base 110a. As another example, the base 410a may include a spine member 420 which may be similar to or identical to the spine member 120 discussed above. The spine member 420 may include one or more of a plurality of openings 424 that are similar to or identical to the opening 124, and the number of openings 424 in the spine member 420 may be the same as or identical to the number of openings 124 discussed above with respect to the spine member 120. The edge members 416, 418, and spine member 420 may include constricted portions 416a, 418a, and 420a that are (respectively) identical to the constricted portions 116a, 118a, and 120a discussed above with respect to the edge members 116, 118, and spine member 120. In some implementations, the strap 400a is identical to the strap 100a, except for the stem 430 and channel 450 which are discussed further below.The number of openings 422, 424, and / or stems 430 may be the same as or identical to the number of openings 122, 124, and / or stems 130 discussed above with respect to the base 110a.

[0107] The base 410a may include a flexible (e.g., stretchable) material. In some implementations, the base 410a may include only one material, and such material may be flexible (e.g., stretchable). For example, 410a may include an elastomer material such as rubber and / or silicone. In some implementations, the base 410a does not include a metallic material.

[0108] Similar to strap 100a, strap 400a may include one or more stems 430. Referring at least to Figure 6D, the stems 430 may include a rounded cross-section. For example, the stems 430 may include a rounded rectangle. The channel 450 may include a cross-section corresponding to the cross-section of the stem 430. In some implementations, the channel 450 includes a rounded rectangular cross-section. The channel 450 may be tubular. The channel 450 may surround the entire cross-section of the stem 430.

[0109] Channel 450 may contain a metallic material such as stainless steel. In some implementations, channel 450 contains only metallic material. In some implementations, channel 450 does not contain elastomer material. For example, in some implementations, channel 450 does not contain rubber and / or silicone. In some implementations, channel 450 does not contain leather and / or fabric.

[0110] Figures 6E to 6L illustrate exemplary methods for manufacturing the strap 400a. Referring to Figure 6E, one or more hollow tubes 480 can be obtained or formed (e.g., by a metal extrusion process). In some implementations, the tubes 480 are made of metal or a metallic material, such as stainless steel. In some implementations, the tubes 480 contain only metallic materials and do not contain rubber, silicone, leather, and / or cloth. In some implementations, the tubes 480 are formed to have a round cross-section, such as a rounded rectangular cross-section. As shown in Figure 6F, the tubes 480 can be cut into shorter sections to form strap members such as channels 450. In some implementations, all sharp edges of the tubes 480 are removed by deburring.

[0111] Referring to Figures 6G to 6H, the channel 450 may be located in a mold, for example, a first mold section 490. Figure 6G shows a top perspective view of the channel 450 within the mold section 490, and Figure 6H shows a top view of the channel 450 within the mold section 490. A second mold section 492 may be located adjacent to the mold section 490 for its enclosed interior. In some implementations, the mold sections 490 and / or 492 include locations for each channel 450 arranged in multiple columns of multiple rows, each of which may be defined by a wall or rib of the mold sections 490 and / or 492. In some implementations, the mold sections 490 and / or 492 are configured to provide two columns and multiple rows within each column to receive each of the channels 450. The number of columns and rows in the mold sections 490 and / or 492 is variable and corresponds to the number of columns and rows of the stems 430 and / or channels 450 of the strap 400a. The mold portions 490 and / or 492 may include one or more voids and / or portions configured to define a portion of the base 410a of the strap 400a after the material has been inserted into the voids. For example, the mold portions 490 and / or 492 may be configured to form (separately or together) any of the components discussed above with respect to the base 410a.

[0112] After the mold portions 490 and 492 are assembled to form a sealed interior that houses the channel 450, material can be inserted (e.g., injected) into the internal space defined by the mold portions 490 and 492, for example, through an opening or port 492. The mold portions 490 and 492 and / or the channel 450 can be configured so that such material can fill the internal space and voids in the hollow portion of the channel 450. Such material may be a flexible material, such as an elastomer material including rubber and / or silicone. After the material has cured, the mold portions 490 and 492 can be separated from each other and the finished strap 400a can be removed. Such a finished strap 400a may include any of the features and / or components discussed above with respect to the strap 400a.

[0113] Any of the straps described herein may be formed by a molding process using a molded portion that is at least partially similar to or identical in some or many respects to the molded portions 490, 492. For example, any of the bases of the straps described herein may be formed by a molding process using a molded portion that is at least partially similar to or identical in some or many respects to the molded portions 490, 492.

[0114] Other considerations and terminology While the present invention has been disclosed in the context of certain preferred embodiments, it should be understood that certain advantages, features, and aspects of systems, devices, and methods can be realized in various other embodiments. Furthermore, the various embodiments and features described herein can be implemented separately, combined together, or substituted for one another, and various combinations and subcombinations of features and embodiments can be created, which are also considered to fall within the scope of the invention. Moreover, the systems and devices described above do not need to include all of the modules and functions described in the preferred embodiments.

[0115] The conditional language used herein, in particular "can," "could," "might," "may," and "e.g.," is generally intended to convey that certain features, elements, and / or steps are optional, unless otherwise specified or understood in the context in which they are used. Therefore, such conditional language does not generally imply that features, elements, and / or steps are required in any way, or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for determining whether or not other inputs or prompts are present, whether or not these features, elements, and / or steps are included, or whether or always performed. Terms such as "comprising," "including," and "having" are synonymous and are used in a comprehensive and open-ended manner, not excluding additional elements, features, actions, behaviors, etc. Similarly, the term "or" is used in its comprehensive sense (rather than its exclusive sense), and for example, when used to connect a list of elements, "or" means one, some, or all of the elements in the list. Furthermore, as used herein, the term "each" may, in addition to its usual meaning, refer to any subset of the set of elements to which the term "each" applies.

[0116] Connecting terms such as "at least one of X, Y, and Z" are generally used in contexts where they indicate that an item, term, etc., could be X, Y, or Z, unless otherwise specified. Therefore, such connecting terms are not generally intended to suggest that a particular embodiment requires the presence of at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z.

[0117] As used herein, the terms “approximately,” “about,” “generally,” and “substantially” describe a value, quantity, or characteristic that is close to the stated value, quantity, or characteristic that performs the desired function or achieves the desired result. For example, the terms “approximately,” “about,” “generally,” and “substantially” may refer to quantities that are less than 10%, less than 5%, less than 1%, less than 0.1%, and less than 0.01% of the stated quantity. As another example, in certain embodiments, the terms “approximately parallel” and “substantially parallel” refer to a value, quantity, or characteristic that is 10 degrees, 5 degrees, 3 degrees, or 1 degree or less away from exact parallelism. As another example, in certain embodiments, the terms “generally perpendicular” and “substantially perpendicular” refer to a value, quantity, or characteristic that is 10 degrees, 5 degrees, 3 degrees, or 1 degree or less away from exact perpendicularism.

[0118] While this specification has described specific embodiments and examples, those skilled in the art will understand that many aspects of the systems and devices shown and described herein can be combined and / or modified in different ways to form yet another embodiment or acceptable example. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure. A wide variety of designs and approaches are possible. Features, structures, or steps disclosed herein are not essential or indispensable.

[0119] The methods disclosed herein do not need to be performed in the order listed. The methods disclosed herein may include specific actions performed by practitioners, but may also include, expressly or implicitly, instructions from third parties regarding such actions.

[0120] The methods and tasks described herein may be performed by a computer system and may be fully automated. The computer system may, in some cases, include multiple separate computers or computing devices (e.g., physical servers, workstations, storage arrays, cloud computing resources, etc.) that communicate and interoperate over a network to perform the functions described. Each such computing device typically includes a processor (or more processors) that executes program instructions or modules stored in memory or other non-temporary computer-readable storage media or devices (e.g., solid-state storage devices, disk drives, etc.). The various functions disclosed herein may be embodied in such program instructions and / or implemented in application-specific circuitry (e.g., ASICs or FPGAs) of the computer system. If the computer system includes multiple computing devices, these devices may, but are not required, be located in the same place. The results of the methods and tasks of this disclosure may be permanently stored by converting physical storage devices, such as solid-state memory chips and / or magnetic disks, into different states. The computer system may be a cloud-based computing system in which processing resources are shared by multiple separate business entities or other users.

[0121] Depending on the embodiment, any particular operation, event, or function of any of the processes or algorithms described herein may be executed in a different order, and may be added, merged, or completely excluded (for example, not all operations or events described are required for the execution of the algorithm). Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the operations or events may be executed concurrently rather than sequentially, for example, through multithreading, interrupt handling, or through multiple processors or processor cores, or on other parallel architectures.

[0122] Various exemplary logic blocks, modules, routines, and algorithmic steps that can be described in connection with the disclosures herein may be implemented as electronic hardware (e.g., ASIC or FPGA devices), computer software running on general-purpose computer hardware, or a combination of both. In this specification, various exemplary components, blocks, and steps can be described in general terms with respect to their functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as dedicated hardware or as software running on general-purpose hardware depends on the specific application and design constraints imposed on the overall system. While the described functionality may be implemented in various ways for specific applications, such implementation decisions should not be construed as causing a departure from the scope of this disclosure.

[0123] Furthermore, various exemplary logic blocks and modules that may be described in connection with the disclosure herein may be implemented or executed by machines such as general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but alternatively, a processor may be a controller, microcontroller, or state machine, or a combination thereof. A processor may include electrical circuits configured to process computer-executable instructions. A processor may include FPGAs or other programmable devices that perform logical operations without processing computer-executable instructions. A processor may be implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors combined with a DSP core, or any other such configuration. Although this specification primarily describes digital technologies, processors may also primarily include analog components. For example, some or all of the rendering techniques described herein can be implemented in analog circuits or mixed analog and digital circuits. Computing environments can include, but are not limited to, all types of computer systems, including, microprocessor-based computer systems, mainframe computers, digital signal processors, portable computing devices, device controllers, or computing engines within appliances.

[0124] Any method, process, routine, or algorithmic element described in connection with the disclosure herein may be embodied directly in hardware, a software module executed by a processor, or a combination of the two. The software module may reside in RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, hard disks, removable disks, CD-ROMs, or any other form of non-temporary computer-readable storage medium. An exemplary storage medium may be coupled to the processor so that the processor can read information from and write information to the storage medium. Alternatively, the storage medium may be integrated with the processor. The processor and storage medium may reside in an ASIC. The ASIC may reside in a user terminal. Alternatively, the processor and storage medium may reside as separate components within a user terminal.

[0125] While the above detailed description has highlighted, described, and pointed out novel features, it should be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and modifications are possible in the form and details of the illustrated devices or algorithms without deviating from the spirit of disclosure. As is recognizable, certain parts of this specification may be embodied in forms that do not provide all the features and benefits described herein. The scope of the specific embodiments disclosed herein is indicated not by the foregoing description but by the appended claims. All modifications that fall within the meaning and scope of equivalents of the claims shall be included within that scope. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0126] 1. Wearable devices 2. Wrist 10 Modules / Clock Modules 12a Strap connection part 12b Strap connection part 20 displays 22 Device Processors 24 Power supply 26 Strain Gauge 30 Physiological Parameter Measurement Modules 31a Emitter 31b detector 32 Thermistor 35 Module Processors 36 Gyroscope 37 Accelerometer 38. Connection to the second pulse oximeter sensor 41 Communication Module 43, 45 ECG electrodes 47 Other Sensors 100a, 100b, 200a, 210a, 300a, 310a, 400a, 410a Strap / Band / Base 112, 212, 312, 412 First end 114, 214, 314, 414 Second end 116, 118, 216, 218, 316, 318, 416, 418 edge members 120, 220, 320, 420 spine members 122, 124, 129, 222, 229, 324, 329, 422, 429 openings / holes 126, 226, 326, 426 Tip 128, 228, 328, 428 joint part 130, 230, 330, 430 Stems 130a, 230a, 330a top 130b, 230b, 330b bottom 150, 152, 250, 350, 450 Channels 150a, 152a, 250a, 350a Web 150b, 150c, 152b, 152c, 250b, 250c, 350b, 350c Legs 152a Top web 152d, 152e Notch 190 Buckle 192 Buckle body 194 Tongue 216a, 218a, 220a, 316a, 318a, 320a, 416a, 418a, 420a Stenosis 403 pins 480 hollow tube 490, 492 Mold part G1, G2 gap h1, h2, h3 height

Claims

1. A strap for a wearable device configured to be attached to a user's wrist, wherein the wearable device is configured to measure one or more physiological parameters of the user, and the strap is It comprises a base having an integral structure made of a first material, and the base is A first end configured to connect to a part of the wearable device, The second end opposite to the first end, A length extending between the first end and the second end, wherein the base is bent along the length and configured such that the strap wraps around at least a portion of the user's wrist when in use, The width extending between both sides of the base, Multiple openings spaced apart from each other along the aforementioned length, A plurality of stems, each positioned between two of the plurality of openings and generally extending in the direction of the width, Furthermore, The aforementioned strap further, The plurality of channels are arranged around the plurality of stems, and each of the plurality of channels is A first channel partially positioned around one of the plurality of stems such that the first channel surrounds less than the entire portion of one of the plurality of stems, comprising a second material, A second channel partially positioned around one of the plurality of stems such that the second channel surrounds less than the entire portion of one of the plurality of stems, comprising the second material, Equipped with, The first channel and the second channel are fixed to each other around one of the multiple stems such that portions of the first channel and the second channel overlap each other. The second material of the first channel and the second channel is less flexible than the first material of the base. The base further comprises a plurality of holes configured to receive the buckle tongue of a buckle for securing the wearable device to the user's wrist. The plurality of holes are spaced apart from each other along the length such that the arrangement of the plurality of holes extends parallel to the arrangement of the plurality of openings. The base is, A first edge member that at least partially defines the first side surface of the base between the first end and the second end, A second edge member that at least partially defines the second side surface of the base between the first end and the second end, wherein the second side surface faces the first side surface, A spine member extending along at least a portion of the aforementioned length and positioned between the first edge member and the second edge member, wherein the spine member is substantially parallel to the first edge member and the second edge member. Furthermore, The plurality of openings, A plurality of first openings are spaced apart from each other along at least a portion of the aforementioned length and extend between the first edge member and the spine member, A plurality of second openings are spaced apart from each other along at least a portion of the aforementioned length and extend between the second edge member and the spine member. Equipped with, The aforementioned multiple stems, A plurality of first stems, each positioned between two of the first plurality of openings and extending between the first edge member and the spine member, Each of the second plurality of stems is positioned between two of the second plurality of openings and extends between the second edge member and the spine member. Equipped with, The plurality of holes are formed in the spine member. strap.

2. The strap according to claim 1, wherein the second material includes stainless steel.

3. The strap according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first material comprises at least one of silicone and rubber.

4. The first channel comprises a web and legs extending from both ends of the web of the first channel, The second channel comprises a web and legs extending from both ends of the web of the second channel, The legs of the first channel overlap with the legs of the second channel. The strap according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The strap according to claim 4, wherein the web of the first channel and the web of the second channel do not overlap with each other.

6. The strap according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the webs of the first channel and the second channel are substantially flat, and the legs of the first channel and the second channel are curved.

7. The strap according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the legs of the first channel overlap only with the legs of the second channel.

8. One of the plurality of stems comprises a top, a bottom opposite to the top, and opposing sides connecting the top and the bottom, The side of one of the plurality of stems is positioned adjacent to the leg portion of the second channel, The overlapping legs of the first channel and the second channel, the non-overlapping portions of the first channel and the second channel, and the side surface of one of the plurality of stems cooperate to define a substantially circular shape around one of the plurality of stems. The strap according to any one of claims 4 to 7.

9. The legs of the second channel are in contact with the sides of the plurality of stems, At the free end of each of the legs of the second channel, at least a portion of the outer surface of each of the legs of the second channel is configured to lie on the plane over which the top of one of the plurality of stems extends. The strap according to claim 8.

10. A wearable device comprising a strap according to any one of claims 1 to 9, configured to measure at least one of the user's oxygen saturation and pulse rate.

11. A strap for a wearable device configured to be secured to the user's wrist, It comprises a base having an integral structure made of a first material, and the base is A first end configured to connect to a part of the wearable device, The second end opposite to the first end, The length extending between the first end and the second end, The width extending between both sides of the base, Multiple openings spaced apart from each other along the aforementioned length, Multiple stems, each positioned between two of the multiple openings and generally extending in the direction of the width Furthermore, The aforementioned strap further, The plurality of channels are arranged around the plurality of stems, and each of the plurality of channels is A first channel at least partially arranged around one of the plurality of stems, A second channel is positioned at least partially around one of the multiple stems and fixed to the first channel. Equipped with, The first channel and the second channel include a second material which is less flexible than the first material of the base. The base further comprises a plurality of holes configured to receive the buckle tongue of a buckle for securing the wearable device to the user's wrist. The plurality of holes are spaced apart from each other along the length such that the arrangement of the plurality of holes extends parallel to the arrangement of the plurality of openings. The base is, A first edge member that at least partially defines the first side surface of the base between the first end and the second end, A second edge member that at least partially defines the second side surface of the base between the first end and the second end, wherein the second side surface faces the first side surface, A spine member extending along at least a portion of the aforementioned length and positioned between the first edge member and the second edge member, wherein the spine member is substantially parallel to the first edge member and the second edge member. Furthermore, The plurality of openings, A plurality of first openings are spaced apart from each other along at least a portion of the aforementioned length and extend between the first edge member and the spine member, A plurality of second openings are spaced apart from each other along at least a portion of the aforementioned length and extend between the second edge member and the spine member. Equipped with, The aforementioned multiple stems, A plurality of first stems, each positioned between two of the first plurality of openings and extending between the first edge member and the spine member, Each of the second plurality of stems is positioned between two of the second plurality of openings and extends between the second edge member and the spine member. Equipped with, The plurality of holes are formed in the spine member. strap.

12. The strap according to claim 11, wherein the second material includes a metal material and the first material includes at least one of silicone and rubber.

13. The strap according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the first channel and the second channel are formed non-integrally such that the first channel and the second channel are separate members.

14. The first channel comprises a web and a leg extending from the opposite side of the web of the first channel, The second channel comprises a web and a leg extending from the opposite side of the web of the second channel, The legs of the first channel overlap with the legs of the second channel. The strap according to any one of claims 11 to 13.

15. The strap according to claim 14, wherein the webs of the first channel and the second channel do not overlap with each other.

16. One of the plurality of stems comprises a top, a bottom opposite to the top, and opposing sides connecting the top and the bottom, The side surface of one of the plurality of stems is in contact with the leg portion of the second channel, The leg of the second channel is sandwiched between the side of one of the plurality of stems and the leg of the first channel. The overlapping legs of the first channel and the second channel, the non-overlapping portions of the first channel and the second channel, and the side surface of one of the multiple stems cooperate to define a substantially circular shape around one of the multiple stems. The strap according to claim 14 or 15.

17. A strap for a wearable device configured to be attached to a part of the user's body, It has a base with a one-piece structure made of the first material, The base is, The first end, the second end opposite the first end, and the length extending between the first end and the second end, A first edge member extending at least a portion of the aforementioned length and along the first side surface of the base, A second edge member extending at least a portion of the aforementioned length and along the second side surface of the base, A spine member extending along at least a portion of the aforementioned length and positioned between the first edge member and the second edge member, A plurality of first openings are spaced apart from each other along at least a portion of the aforementioned length and are positioned between the first edge member and the spine member, A plurality of second openings are spaced apart from each other along at least a portion of the aforementioned length and are positioned between the second edge member and the spine member, A first plurality of stems, each of which is positioned between two of the first plurality of openings and extends between the first edge member and the spine member, A second plurality of stems, each of which is positioned between two of the second plurality of openings and extends between the second edge member and the spine member, Furthermore, The spine member is provided with a plurality of holes configured to receive the buckle tongue of a buckle for securing the wearable device to the user's wrist. The plurality of holes are spaced apart from each other along at least a portion of the length and are separated from the first plurality of openings and the second plurality of openings, The aforementioned strap further, A first plurality of strap members, each of the first plurality of strap members being arranged around each of the stems of the first plurality of stems, A second plurality of strap members, each of the second plurality of strap members being arranged around each of the stems of the second plurality of stems, Equipped with, The first plurality of strap members and the second plurality of strap members include a second material which is less flexible than the first material of the base. Each of the first plurality of strap members comprises a first channel and a second channel, The first channel and the second channel are fixed around one of the first plurality of stems such that the portions of the first channel and the second channel overlap each other. Each of the second plurality of strap members comprises a first channel and a second channel, A strap in which the first channel and the second channel are fixed around one of the second plurality of stems such that the portions of the first channel and the second channel of the second plurality of strap members overlap each other.

18. The strap according to claim 17, wherein the second material includes a metal material and the first material includes at least one of silicone and rubber.

Images