Display for wearable computing devices with 3D cover

Abstract

A display for an electronic device is provided. The display includes a first display area having a first plurality of pixels. The display includes a connection area extending from a periphery of the first display area. The display includes a second display area having a second plurality of pixels. The second display area includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion extends from the connection area around a first portion of the periphery of the first display area. The second portion extends from the connection area around a second portion of the periphery of the first display area. The second portion of the periphery is different from the first portion of the periphery of the first display area.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to displays for wearable computing devices. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to displays for wearable computing devices having a three-dimensional cover.

Background Art

[0002] A wearable computing device (e.g., a wristwatch) can include a display for presenting content (e.g., time, date, etc.) to a user. A wearable computing device can collect data related to activities performed by the user or related to the user's physiological state. Such data can include data representing the surrounding environment around the user or the interaction between the user and the environment. For example, the data can include motion data related to the user's movement and / or physiological data obtained by measuring various physiological characteristics of the user such as heart rate, sweating level, and the like.

Summary of the Invention

[0003] Aspects and advantages of embodiments of the present disclosure are shown in part in the following description, or can be learned from the description, or can be learned through the practice of the embodiments.

[0004] In one aspect, a display is provided. The display includes a first display area having a first plurality of pixels. The display includes a connection area extending from a peripheral portion of the first display area. The display includes a second display area having a second plurality of pixels. The second display area includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion extends from the connection area around a first portion of the peripheral portion of the first display area. The second portion extends from the connection area around a second portion of the peripheral portion of the first display area. The second portion of the peripheral portion is different from the first portion of the peripheral portion of the first display area.

[0005] In some embodiments, the total number of pixels in a first set of pixels is different from the total number of pixels in a second set of pixels.

[0006] In some embodiments, the first gap is defined between a first portion of the second display area and a first portion of the periphery of the first display area. Furthermore, the second gap is defined between a second portion of the second display area and a second portion of the periphery of the first display area.

[0007] In some embodiments, the display includes a first plurality of conductors and a second plurality of conductors. Each conductor of the first plurality of conductors is electrically coupled to a corresponding pixel of the first plurality of pixels. Each conductor of the second plurality of pixels is electrically coupled to a corresponding pixel of the second plurality of pixels. In some embodiments, each conductor of the second plurality of conductors extends from the first display area to the second display area via a connection area.

[0008] In some embodiments, the display includes a display driver circuit. The display driver circuit includes a first memory buffer and a second memory buffer. The first memory buffer is communicatively coupled to each of the first plurality of pixels via corresponding conductors of the first plurality of pixels. The second memory buffer is communicatively coupled to each of the second plurality of pixels via corresponding conductors of the second plurality of pixels. In some embodiments, a gap is defined between the edge of the first portion of the second display area and the edge of the second portion of the second display area.

[0009] In another embodiment, a wearable computing device is provided. The wearable computing device includes a housing and a three-dimensional cover disposed within the housing. The three-dimensional cover comprises a transparent material (e.g., glass material) and defines an internal volume. The wearable computing device further includes a display disposed within the internal volume defined by the three-dimensional cover. The display includes a first connection area extending from the periphery of a first display area. The display includes a second display area having a second plurality of pixels. The second display area includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion extends from the first connection area around the first portion of the periphery of the first display area. The second portion extends from the first connection area around the second portion of the periphery of the second display area. The second portion of the periphery of the first display area is distinct from the first portion of the periphery of the first display area.

[0010] In some embodiments, the first portion of the second display area and the second portion of the second display area are each coupled to a curved portion on the inner surface of the three-dimensional cover. For example, in some embodiments, at least one of the first portion of the second display area or the second portion of the second display area is laminated to a curved portion on the inner surface of the three-dimensional cover.

[0011] In some embodiments, the display includes an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display.

[0012] In some embodiments, a first gap is defined between a first display area and a first portion of a second display area. Furthermore, a second gap is defined between the first display area and a second portion of the second display area.

[0013] In some embodiments, the display includes a second connection region extending from the periphery of a first display region. The second connection region is spaced apart from the first connection region along the periphery of the first display region. The display further includes a third display region having a third plurality of pixels. The third display region includes a first portion extending from the second connection region around a third portion of the periphery of the first display region. The third display region includes a second portion extending from the second connection region around a fourth portion of the periphery of the first display region.

[0014] In some embodiments, the display includes a first plurality of conductors and a second plurality of conductors. Each conductor of the first plurality of conductors is electrically coupled to a corresponding pixel of the first plurality of pixels. Each conductor of the second plurality of pixels is electrically coupled to a corresponding pixel of the second plurality of pixels. In some embodiments, each conductor of the second plurality of conductors extends from a first display area to a second display area via a first connection area.

[0015] In some embodiments, the display includes a display driver circuit. The display driver circuit includes a first memory buffer and a second memory buffer. The first memory buffer is communicatively coupled to each of the first plurality of pixels via corresponding conductors of the first plurality of pixels. The second memory buffer is communicatively coupled to each of the second plurality of pixels via corresponding conductors of the second plurality of pixels. In some embodiments, a gap is defined between the edge of the first portion of the second display area and the edge of the second portion of the second display area.

[0016] In some embodiments, the second display area of ​​the display is configured as a touchscreen display. In some embodiments, the wearable computing device further includes an image sensor located within the internal volume of a three-dimensional cover, such that the image sensor is positioned behind the second display area of ​​the display.

[0017] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the various embodiments of this disclosure will be better understood by referring to the following description and the appended claims. The appended drawings incorporated herein and forming part of this specification illustrate exemplary embodiments of this disclosure and, together with the description, illustrate the relevant principles.

[0018] Modes for carrying out the invention intended for those skilled in the art are described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0019] [Figure 1] This disclosure illustrates several embodiments of wearable computing devices. [Figure 2] The following are cross-sectional views of wearable computing devices according to several embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] The following diagrams show exploded assembly diagrams of wearable computing devices according to several embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] The following are perspective views of three-dimensional covers of wearable computing devices according to several embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] Figure 4 shows a bottom view of a three-dimensional cover according to several embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] The following are perspective views of displays of wearable computing devices having a three-dimensional cover according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view of a display according to several embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] Figure 4 shows a top view of a three-dimensional cover according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, with the display shown in Figure 6 positioned within its internal volume. [Figure 9] Figure 4 shows a side view of a three-dimensional cover according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, with the display shown in Figure 6 positioned within its internal volume. [Figure 10]Shows a schematic diagram of the electrical connection of pixels of the display of FIG. 6 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] Shows a perspective view of another display of a wearable computing device having a three-dimensional cover according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] Shows a cross-sectional view of the display of FIG. 11 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] Shows a top view of the three-dimensional cover of FIG. 4 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, with the display of FIG. 11 disposed within its internal volume. [Figure 14] Shows a side view of the three-dimensional cover of FIG. 4 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, with the display of FIG. 11 disposed within its internal volume. [Figure 15] Shows another side view of the three-dimensional cover of FIG. 4 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, with the display of FIG. 11 disposed within its internal volume. [Figure 16] Shows a schematic diagram of the electrical connection of pixels of the display of FIG. 11 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] Shows an image sensor disposed within the internal volume of a three-dimensional cover of a wearable computing device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0020] Here, embodiments of the present disclosure are referred to in detail, and one or more examples thereof are shown in the drawings. Each example is provided as an explanation of the present disclosure and is not a limitation of the present disclosure. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the present disclosure without departing from the scope or spirit of the present disclosure. For example, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to create still another embodiment. Therefore, the present invention is intended to cover modifications and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0021] An exemplary aspect of this disclosure relates, for example, to a wearable computing device that can be worn on a user's wrist. The wearable computing device may include a housing and a display. The display may be configured to show content for the user to view. The wearable computing device may further include a cover positioned on the housing such that the cover is positioned over the display. In this way, the cover can protect the display from damage (e.g., scratches). Furthermore, the cover may be made of a transparent material (e.g., glass). In this way, the user can view the content on the display through the cover.

[0022] Exemplary embodiments of this disclosure relate to displays (e.g., organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays) that can be used in wearable computing devices having a three-dimensional cover defining an internal volume. The display may include a first display area (e.g., a main display area) and a second display area (e.g., a secondary display area). It should be understood that the first and second display areas each contain a plurality of pixels.

[0023] A first display area can be bonded (e.g., stacked) to the inner surface of a first portion (e.g., a flat portion) of a three-dimensional cover. In this way, the first display area can display content to be viewed through the first portion of the three-dimensional cover. Furthermore, a second display area can be bonded (e.g., stacked) to the inner surface of a second portion (e.g., a curved portion) of the three-dimensional cover. In this way, the second display area of ​​the display can provide content for the user of a wearable computing device to view through the second portion (e.g., a curved portion) of the three-dimensional cover glass.

[0024] The display may include a connecting area (e.g., an area without pixels) extending from the periphery of the first display area to the second display area. Furthermore, the second display area may extend from the connecting area. For example, the second display area may include a first portion extending from the connecting area in a first direction (e.g., clockwise) and a second portion extending from the connecting area in a second direction opposite to the first direction (e.g., counterclockwise). In this way, the first portion of the second display area may extend around the first portion of the periphery of the first display area, while the second portion of the second display area may extend around the second portion of the periphery of the first display area. It should be understood that the second portion of the periphery of the first display area is different from (e.g., does not overlap) the second portion of the periphery of the first display area. In this way, the first portion of the second display area and the second portion of the second display area do not overlap.

[0025] In some embodiments, the connection region is easily bendable relative to the first display region. For example, the connection region of a display can be bent downward relative to the first display region. In this way, the second display region can be bent relative to the first display region to position the second display region for bonding (e.g., stacking) to the curved inner surface of a three-dimensional cover. In alternative embodiments, the connection region may be curved. For example, the connection region may extend from the first display region along two directions (e.g., radial and vertical).

[0026] The display may include a first plurality of conductors and a second plurality of conductors. Each conductor of the first plurality of conductors can be electrically coupled to a corresponding pixel of a plurality of pixels contained in a first display area. Furthermore, each conductor of the second plurality of conductors can be electrically coupled to a corresponding pixel of a plurality of pixels contained in a second display area. In this way, the first display area and the second display area can be controlled independently of each other.

[0027] The display may include a display driver circuit having a dedicated memory buffer for each display area (e.g., a first display area, a second display area). For example, the display may include a first memory buffer and a second memory buffer. The first memory buffer can be communicatively coupled to each pixel of the first display area via corresponding conductors of a plurality of first conductors. The second memory buffer can be communicatively coupled to each pixel of the second display area via corresponding conductors of a plurality of second conductors. In this way, the first and second display areas can be controlled separately. For example, in some embodiments, the second display area can be controlled to function as an always-on display (AOD).

[0028] A wearable computing device according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure can offer numerous technical effects and advantages. For example, the first and second display areas of the display allow the display to conform to the shape of a three-dimensional cover of the wearable computing device. For example, the first display area can be coupled to a flat portion of the inner surface of the three-dimensional cover, while the second display area can surround a curved portion of the inner surface of the three-dimensional cover. In this way, the first display area can provide content to be viewed through the flat portion of the three-dimensional cover, while the second display area can provide content to be viewed through the curved portion of the three-dimensional cover. Furthermore, since the display includes dedicated conductors and memory buffers for the first and second display areas, the display areas (e.g., the first and second display areas) can be controlled independently of each other.

[0029] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the second display area can be configured as a touchscreen, thereby eliminating the need for a separate input device (e.g., a push button). The touchscreen functionality of the second display area allows the user to provide different touch inputs (e.g., scrolling, button presses). For example, the touchscreen of the second display area can function as a dial for the user to provide inputs (e.g., scrolling) associated with controlling the operation of a device (e.g., a thermostat) communicatively coupled to the wearable computing device. In this way, the touchscreen of the second display area allows the user to have finer control over external devices. As another example, different parts of the second display area can be touched (e.g., pressed) by the user to start / stop a watch associated with an exercise application running on the wearable computing device. Furthermore, the parts of the second display area that the user can touch to start / stop the watch may be located in different positions depending on which wrist (e.g., left wrist, right wrist) the user is wearing the wearable computing device on. In this way, the parts of the second display area that can be touched to control the watch for the exercise application are accessible regardless of which wrist the user is wearing the wearable computing device on.

[0030] Referring here to the figures, Figures 1 to 3 show wearable computing devices 100 according to several embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, the wearable computing device 100 can be worn, for example, on a user's arm 102 (e.g., wrist). For example, the wearable computing device 100 may include a housing 110. The housing 110 can define a cavity 111 in which one or more electronic components (e.g., arranged on a printed circuit board) are arranged. For example, the wearable computing device 100 may include a printed circuit board 120 arranged within the cavity 111. Furthermore, one or more electronic components can be arranged on the printed circuit board 120. The wearable computing device 100 may further include a battery (not shown) arranged within the cavity 111 defined by the housing 110.

[0031] The wearable computing device 100 may include a first band 130 and a second band 132. As shown in the figure, the first band 130 can be coupled to the housing 110 at a first position on the housing 110. Conversely, the second band 132 can be coupled to the housing 110 at a second position on the housing 110. Furthermore, the first band 130 and the second band 132 can be coupled to each other to secure the housing 110 to the user's arm 102.

[0032] In some embodiments, the first band 130 may include a buckle or fastener (not shown). Furthermore, the second band 132 may include a plurality of openings (not shown) spaced apart from each other along the length of the second band 132. In such embodiments, a projection of the buckle associated with the first band 130 may extend through one of the plurality of openings defined by the second band 132 to connect the first band 130 to the second band 132.

[0033] It should be understood that the first band 130 can be joined to the second band 132 using any suitable type of fastener. For example, in some embodiments, the first band 130 and the second band 132 may include magnets. In such embodiments, the first band 130 and the second band 132 can be magnetically coupled to each other to secure the housing 110 to the user's arm 102.

[0034] A wearable computing device 100 may include a display 140 configured to display content for the user to view (e.g., time, date, biometric measurements, notifications, etc.). For example, the display 140 may include multiple pixels. In some embodiments, the display 140 may include an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display. However, it should be understood that the display 140 may include any suitable type of display.

[0035] The wearable computing device 100 may include a cover 150 positioned in the housing 110 such that the cover 150 is positioned over the display 140. In this way, the cover 150 can protect the display 140 from scratches. In some embodiments, the wearable computing device 100 may include a seal (not shown) positioned between the housing 110 and the cover 150. For example, a first surface of the seal may be in contact with the housing 110, and a second surface of the seal may be in contact with the cover 150. In this way, the seal between the housing 110 and the cover 150 can prevent a liquid (e.g., water) from entering a cavity 111 defined by the housing 110.

[0036] It should be understood that the cover 150 may be optically transparent so that the user can see the information displayed on the display 140. For example, in some embodiments, the cover 150 may include a glass material. However, it should be understood that the cover 150 may include any suitable optically transparent material.

[0037] Referring to Figures 4 and 5, a 3D cover 200 for a wearable computing device is provided. The 3D cover 200 has an x-axis 202 and a y-axis 204 The x-axis 202, y-axis 204, and z-axis 206 are defined as being substantially perpendicular to each other (e.g., differences of less than 15 degrees, less than 10 degrees, less than 5 degrees, less than 1 degree, etc.). Also, refer to Figures 1 to 3 and understand that the wearable computing device 100 described above may include a 3D cover 200. For example, the cover 150 described above may include a 3D cover 200. Details of the 3D cover 200 are described here.

[0038] The three-dimensional cover 200 may include a first portion 210 and a second portion 212. The first portion 210 of the three-dimensional cover 200 may extend along the x-axis 202 and the z-axis 206. In this way, the first portion 210 may be substantially flat. The second portion 212 of the three-dimensional cover 200 may extend from the first portion 210 of the three-dimensional cover 200 along the y-axis 204. The second portion 212 may have an annular shape. Furthermore, the second portion 212 of the three-dimensional cover 200 may extend around the periphery of the first portion 210 of the three-dimensional cover 200. In this way, the first portion 210 and the second portion 212 of the three-dimensional cover 200 can collectively define an internal volume 230 in which a display for a wearable computing device can be placed. In some embodiments, the three-dimensional cover 200 may have a frustoconical shape.

[0039] Referring here to Figures 6 and 7, several embodiments of the present disclosure provide a display 300 for a wearable computing device. In some embodiments, the display 300 can define a circumferential direction C, a radial direction R, and a vertical direction V. The display 300 can be implemented in a wearable computing device including a three-dimensional cover. For example, the display 300 can be used in a wearable computing device including a three-dimensional cover 200 as shown in Figures 4 and 5.

[0040] As shown in the figure, the display 300 includes a first display area 310 (e.g., a main display) having a first plurality of pixels 312. For example, the first plurality of pixels 312 may include the total number of pixels required to cover a substantial portion (e.g., more than 90 percent) of the first display area 310. The first display area 310 can display content for the user of the wearable computing device to view. Furthermore, the first display area 310 may have a substantially annular (e.g., circular) shape. In some embodiments, the first display area 310 may be substantially flat.

[0041] The display 300 may include a connection area 320. In some embodiments, the connection area 320 may contain no pixels. In this way, the connection area 320 cannot display content. As shown in the figure, the connection area 320 extends from the periphery 314 of the first display area 310. For example, the connection area 320 may extend outward from the periphery 314 of the first display area 310 along the radial direction R. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the connection area 320 may be curved. For example, the connection area 320 may extend from the periphery 314 of the first display area 310 along the radial direction R and the vertical direction V.

[0042] The display 300 includes a second display area 330 (e.g., a sub-display) having a second plurality of pixels 332. In this way, the second display area 330 can display content for the user of the wearable computing device to view. In some embodiments, the second plurality of pixels 332 may include the total number of pixels required to cover a significant portion (e.g., more than 90 percent) of the second display area 330. As shown in the figure, in some embodiments, the second plurality of pixels 332 may be arranged in multiple rows. Furthermore, the pixels contained in each of the multiple rows may be spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction C. In this way, the second display area 330 can display content for the user of the wearable computing device to view.

[0043] In some embodiments, the second display area 330 can be configured as an always-on display. Alternatively, or further, the second display area 330 can be configured as a touchscreen display. For example, the second display area 330 may include one or more touch sensors. In this way, the user can provide user input (e.g., touch, scroll, etc.) through the second display area 330.

[0044] As shown in the figure, the second display area 330 can extend from the connection area 320. In this way, the first display area 310 and the second display area 330 can be formed integrally via the connection area 320. The second display area 330 may include a first portion 334 and a second portion 336. As shown in the figure, the first portion 334 of the second display area 330 can extend in a first direction D1 (for example, counterclockwise) from the connection area 320 to the distal end 335. Furthermore, the second portion 336 of the second display area 330 can extend in a second direction D2 (for example, clockwise) from the connection area 320 to the distal end 337. It should be understood that the second direction D2 is opposite to the first direction D1. In this way, the first portion 334 of the second display area 330 can extend around the first portion (e.g., the first half) of the peripheral portion 314 of the first display area 310, and the second portion 336 of the second display area 330 can extend around the second portion (e.g., the second half) of the peripheral portion 314 of the first display area 310.

[0045] It should be understood that the first portion of the peripheral portion 314 of the first display area 310 is different from the second portion of the peripheral portion 314 of the first display area 310. In this way, the first portion 334 of the second display area 330 and the second portion 336 of the second display area 330 do not overlap with each other. For example, the distal end 335 of the first portion 334 of the second display area 330 does not extend beyond the distal end 337 of the second portion 336 of the second display area 330 along the circumferential direction C.

[0046] In some embodiments, a first gap 350 is defined between the periphery 314 of the first display area 310 and the first portion 334 of the second display area 330. Furthermore, a second gap 352 is defined between the periphery 314 of the first display area 310 and the second portion 336 of the second display area 330.

[0047] In some embodiments, the first portion 334 and the second portion 336 of the second display area 330 may be spaced apart from each other such that a gap 340 is defined between the distal end 335 of the first portion 334 and the distal end 337 of the second portion 336 of the second display area 330. For example, the gap 340 can be defined along the circumferential direction C between the distal end 335 of the first portion 334 and the distal end 337 of the second portion 336 of the second display area 330. In alternative embodiments, the distal end 335 of the first portion 334 may be in contact with (e.g., touching) the distal end 337 of the second portion 336 so that no gap is defined between them.

[0048] Referring here to Figures 8 and 9, the display 300 (Figure 6) can be placed within an internal volume 230 (Figure 4) defined by the three-dimensional cover 200. For example, the first display area 310 of the display 300 can be viewed through the first portion 210 (e.g., the flat portion) of the three-dimensional cover 200. Furthermore, the second display area 330 can be viewed through the second portion 212 (e.g., the curved portion) of the three-dimensional cover 200. In this way, the display 300 can be viewed through the first portion 210 (e.g., the flat portion) and the second portion 212 (e.g., the curved portion) of the three-dimensional cover 200. In some embodiments, the second display area 330 may have a conical shape.

[0049] Referring here to Figure 10, the display 300 is shown in an unmounted state, with all display areas (e.g., a first display area 310, a second display area 330) arranged flat in the same plane. As shown, the display 300 may include a first plurality of conductors 360 associated with the first display area 310. For example, each conductor of the first plurality of conductors 360 can be electrically coupled to a corresponding pixel of the first plurality of pixels 312. In some embodiments, a plurality of conductors of the first plurality of conductors can be electrically coupled to each of the first plurality of pixels 312. In such embodiments, a first conductor of the first plurality of conductors 360 can be coupled to a first pixel of the first plurality of pixels 312 and used as a data line. In this way, data can be written to the first pixel of the first plurality of pixels 312 via the first conductor of the first plurality of conductors 360. Furthermore, a second conductor of the first plurality of conductors 360 can be electrically coupled to the first pixel and used as a scan line. In this way, the electrical signal associated with the reset of the first pixel can be provided through the second conductor of the first plurality of conductors 360.

[0050] As shown in the figure, the display 300 may include a second plurality of conductors 370. The second plurality of conductors 370 can be electrically coupled to the corresponding pixels of the second plurality of pixels 332. It should be understood that the second plurality of conductors 370 can function in the same way as the first plurality of conductors 360 described above with reference to the first display area 310 of the display 300. Furthermore, the second plurality of conductors 370 may extend to the second display area 330 via the connection area 320 of the display 300.

[0051] The display 300 may include a display driver circuit 380. As shown in the figure, the display driver circuit 380 can be electrically coupled to each of the first plurality of pixels 312 via corresponding conductors of the first plurality of conductors 360. Furthermore, the display driver circuit 380 can be electrically coupled to each of the second plurality of pixels 332 via corresponding conductors of the second plurality of conductors 370. In this way, the display driver circuit 380 can control the operation of the first display area 310 (e.g., the first plurality of pixels 312) and the second display area (e.g., the second plurality of pixels 332).

[0052] In some embodiments, the display driver circuit 380 may include a first memory buffer 382 and a second memory buffer 384. The first memory buffer 382 can store content to be displayed via the first display area 310 of the display 300. Furthermore, the second memory buffer 384 can store content to be displayed via the second display area 330 of the display 300. In this way, the display driver circuit 380 can control the first display area 310 and the second display area 330 of the display 300 separately. For example, the display driver circuit 380 can control the operation of the first display area 310 to display first content stored in the first memory buffer 382. Furthermore, the display driver circuit 380 can control the operation of the second display area 330 to display second content stored in the second memory buffer 384. In some embodiments, the second content may be different from the first content.

[0053] Referring here to Figures 11 and 12, according to some embodiments of this disclosure, another display 400 for a wearable device having a three-dimensional cover is provided. The display 400 can define a circumferential direction C, a radial direction R, and a vertical direction V. The display 400 can be implemented in a wearable computing device including a three-dimensional cover. For example, the display 400 can be used in a wearable computing device including a three-dimensional cover 200 as shown in Figures 4 and 5.

[0054] As shown in the figure, the display 400 includes a first display area 410 (e.g., a main display) having a first plurality of pixels 412. For example, the first plurality of pixels 412 may include the total number of pixels required to cover a substantial portion (e.g., more than 90 percent) of the first display area 410. The first display area 410 can display content for the user of the wearable computing device to view. Furthermore, the first display area 410 may have a substantially annular shape.

[0055] The display 400 may include a first connection area 420. It should be understood that the first connection area 420 does not contain any pixels. As shown in the figure, the first connection area 420 extends from the first display area 410 along the radial direction R. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the first connection area 420 may be curved. In such embodiments, the first connection area 420 may extend from the first display area 410 along the radial direction R and the vertical direction V.

[0056] The display 400 includes a second display area 430 (e.g., a first sub-display) having a second plurality of pixels 432. In this way, the second display area 430 can display content for the user of the wearable computing device to view. In some embodiments, the second plurality of pixels 432 may include the total number of pixels required to cover a significant portion (e.g., more than 90 percent) of the second display area 430. As shown in the figure, in some embodiments, the second plurality of pixels 432 may be arranged in multiple rows. Furthermore, the pixels contained in each of the multiple rows may be spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction C. In this way, the second display area 430 can display content for the user of the wearable computing device to view. In some embodiments, the second display area 430 can be configured as an always-on display.

[0057] The second display area 430 may extend from the first connection area 420. In this way, the second display area 430 may be spaced apart from the first display area 410 along the radial direction R. Furthermore, in embodiments in which the first connection area 420 is curved or bent, the second display area 430 may be spaced apart from the first display area 410 along the radial direction R and the vertical direction V.

[0058] The second display area 430 may include a first portion 434 and a second portion 436. As shown in the figure, the first portion 434 of the second display area 430 may extend in a first direction (e.g., counterclockwise) along the circumferential direction C from the first connection area 420 to the distal end 435. Furthermore, the second portion 436 of the second display area 430 may extend in a second direction D2 (e.g., clockwise) along the circumferential direction C from the first connection area 420 to the distal end 437. It should be understood that the second direction D2 is opposite to the first direction D1. In this way, the first portion 434 of the second display area 430 can extend around the first portion (e.g., the first quarter) of the periphery 414 of the first display area 410, and the second portion 436 of the second display area 430 can extend around the second portion (e.g., the second quarter) of the periphery 414 of the first display area 410. It should be understood that the first portion of the periphery 414 of the first display area 410 is different from the second portion of the periphery 414 of the first display area 410. In this way, the first portion 434 of the second display area 430 and the second portion 436 of the second display area 430 do not overlap.

[0059] The display 400 may include a second connection area 422. It should be understood that the second connection area 422 does not contain any pixels. As shown in the figure, the second connection area 422 is spaced apart from the first connection area 420 along the circumferential direction C and extends from the first display area 410 along the radial direction R. In this way, the first connection area 420 and the second connection area 422 are part of the first display area 410 They are spaced apart from each other along the peripheral portion 414. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the second connection region 422 may be curved. In such embodiments, the second connection region 422 may extend from the first display region 410 along the radial direction R and the vertical direction V.

[0060] The display 400 includes a third display area 440 (e.g., a second sub-display) having a third plurality of pixels 442. In this way, the third display area 440 can display content for the user of the wearable computing device to view. In some embodiments, the third plurality of pixels 442 may include the total number of pixels required to cover a substantial portion (e.g., more than 90 percent) of the third display area 440. As shown in the figure, in some embodiments, the third plurality of pixels 442 may be arranged in multiple rows. Furthermore, the pixels contained in each of the multiple rows may be spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction C. In this way, the third display area 440 can display content for the user of the wearable computing device to view. In some embodiments, the third display area 440 can be configured as an always-on display. Alternatively or further, the third display area 440 can be configured as a touchscreen display.

[0061] The third display area 440 may extend from the second connection area 422. In this way, the third display area 440 may be spaced apart from the first display area 410 along the radial direction R. Furthermore, in embodiments in which the second connection area 422 is curved or bent, the third display area 440 may be spaced apart from the first display area 410 along the radial direction R and the vertical direction V.

[0062] The third display area 440 may include a first portion 444 and a second portion 446. As shown in the figure, the first portion 444 of the third display area 440 may extend along the circumferential direction C in a second direction D2 (for example, clockwise) from the second connection area 422 to the distal end 445. Furthermore, the second portion 446 of the third display area 440 may extend along the circumferential direction C in a first direction D1 (for example, counterclockwise) from the second connection area 422 to the distal end 447.

[0063] It should be understood that the second direction D2 is opposite to the first direction D1. In this way, the first portion 444 of the third display area 440 can extend around the third portion (e.g., the third quarter) of the periphery 414 of the first display area 410, and the second portion 446 of the third display area 440 can extend around the fourth portion (e.g., the fourth quarter) of the periphery 414 of the first display area 410. It should be understood that the third portion of the periphery 414 of the first display area 410 is different from the fourth portion of the periphery 414 of the first display area 410. In this way, the first portion 444 of the third display area 440 and the second portion 446 of the third display area 440 do not overlap. Furthermore, the third portion of the peripheral portion 414 of the first display area 410 and the fourth portion of the peripheral portion 414 of the first display area 410 may differ from the first portion of the peripheral portion 414 of the first display area 410 and the second portion of the peripheral portion 414 of the first display area 410. In this way, the first portion 444 of the third display area 440 and the first portion 434 of the second display area 430 do not overlap with each other. Furthermore, the second portion 446 of the third display area 440 and the second portion 436 of the second display area 430 do not overlap with each other.

[0064] In some embodiments, the distal end 435 of the first portion 434 of the second display area 430 and the distal end 445 of the first portion 444 of the third display area 440 may be in contact (e.g., touching). In such embodiments, there is no gap between the distal end 435 of the first portion 434 of the second display area 430 and the distal end 445 of the first portion 444 of the third display area 440. In alternative embodiments, a gap can be defined between the distal end 435 of the first portion 434 of the second display area 430 and the distal end 445 of the first portion 444 of the third display area 440.

[0065] In some embodiments, the distal end 437 of the second portion 436 of the second display area 430 and the distal end 445 of the second portion 446 of the third display area 440 may be in contact (e.g., touching). In this way, there is no gap between the distal end 437 of the second portion 436 of the second display area 430 and the distal end 447 of the second portion 446 of the third display area 440. In alternative embodiments, a gap can be defined between the distal end 437 of the second portion 436 of the second display area 430 and the distal end 447 of the second portion 446 of the third display area 440.

[0066] In some embodiments, the first gap 450 is between the periphery 414 of the first display area 410 and the second display area 430 A gap 450 is defined between the first portion 434 of the first display area 410 and the first portion 444 of the third display area 440. Furthermore, in some embodiments, a second gap 452 is defined between the periphery 414 of the first display area 410 and the second portion 436 of the second display area 430. Furthermore, a second gap 452 is defined between the periphery 414 of the first display area 410 and the second portion 446 of the third display area 440.

[0067] Referring here to Figures 13 to 15, the display 400 (Figure 11) can be placed within an internal volume 230 (Figure 4) defined by the three-dimensional cover 200. For example, the first display area 410 of the display 400 can be viewed through the first portion 210 (e.g., the flat portion) of the three-dimensional cover 200. Furthermore, the second display area 430 and the third display area 440 can be viewed through the second portion 214 (e.g., the curved portion) of the three-dimensional cover 200. In this way, the display 400 can be viewed through the first portion 210 (e.g., the flat portion) and the second portion 212 (e.g., the curved portion) of the three-dimensional cover 200.

[0068] Referring here to Figure 16, the display 400 is shown in an unmounted state, with all display areas (e.g., a first display area 410, a second display area 430, and a third display area 440) arranged flat and coplanar with the display 400. As shown in the figure, the display 400 may include a first plurality of conductors 460 associated with the first display area 410. For example, each conductor of the first plurality of conductors 460 can be electrically coupled to the corresponding pixel of the first plurality of pixels 412. In some embodiments, a plurality of conductors of the first plurality of conductors can be electrically coupled to each of the first plurality of pixels 412. In such embodiments, the first conductor of the first plurality of conductors 460 can be coupled to the first pixel of the first plurality of pixels 412 and can be used as a data line. In this way, data can be written to the first pixel of the first plurality of pixels 412 via the first conductor of the first plurality of conductors 460. Furthermore, the first plurality of conductors 460 The second conductor can be electrically coupled to the first pixel and used as a scan line. In this way, an electrical signal associated with the reset of the first pixel can be provided through the second conductor.

[0069] As shown in the figure, the display 400 may include a second plurality of conductors 470. The second plurality of conductors 470 can be electrically coupled to the corresponding pixels of a second plurality of pixels 432 in the second display area 430. It should be understood that the second plurality of conductors 470 can function in the same way as the first plurality of conductors 460 described above with reference to the first display area 410 of the display 400. Furthermore, the second plurality of conductors 470 may extend to the second display area 430 through the first connection area 420 of the display 400.

[0070] The display 400 may include a third plurality of conductors 480. The third plurality of conductors 480 can be electrically coupled to the corresponding pixels of a third plurality of pixels 442 in a third display area 440. It should be understood that the third plurality of conductors 480 can function in the same way as the first plurality of conductors 460 described above with reference to the first display area 410 of the display 400. Furthermore, the third plurality of conductors 480 can extend to the third display area 440 via a second connection area 422 of the display 400.

[0071] The display 400 may include a display driver circuit 490. As shown in the figure, the display driver circuit 490 can be electrically coupled to each of the display areas (e.g., a first display area 410, a second display area 430, and a third display area 440) via corresponding conductors of a plurality of conductors 460, 470, and 480. For example, the display driver circuit 490 can be electrically coupled to each of the first plurality of pixels 412 in the first display area 410 via corresponding conductors of the first plurality of conductors 460. The display driver circuit 490 can be electrically coupled to each of the second plurality of pixels 432 in the second display area 430 via corresponding conductors of the second plurality of conductors 470. The display driver circuit 490 can be electrically coupled to each of the third plurality of pixels 442 in the third display area 440 via corresponding conductors of the third plurality of conductors 480. In this way, the display driver circuit 380 can control the operation of the first display area 410 (e.g., a first set of pixels 412), the second display area (e.g., a second set of pixels 432), and the third display area 440 (e.g., a third set of pixels 442).

[0072] In some embodiments, the display driver circuit 490 may include a first memory buffer 492 and a second memory buffer 494. The first memory buffer 492 can store content to be displayed via the first display area 410 of the display 300. The second memory buffer 494 can store content to be displayed via the second display area 430 and the third display area 440 of the display 400. In this way, the display driver circuit 490 can control the first display area 410 and the second and third display areas 430 and 440 of the display 400 separately. For example, the display driver circuit 490 can control the operation of the first display area 410 to display the first content stored in the first memory buffer 492. Furthermore, the display driver circuit 490 can control the operation of the second and third display areas 430 and 440 to display the second content stored in the second memory buffer 494.

[0073] Referring here to Figure 17, the image sensor 500 (e.g., camera) of the wearable computing device can be placed within the internal volume 230 of the three-dimensional cover 200. More specifically, the image sensor 500 can be placed behind the sub-display areas (e.g., second display area 430, third display area 440) of the display 400 (Figure 11). In this way, at least in part, the field of view of the image sensor 500 can be made wider compared to the field of view of an image sensor placed behind the main display area (e.g., first display area 410) of the display 400, by coupling (e.g., stacking) the sub-display areas with the second portion 212 (e.g., curved portion) of the three-dimensional cover 200.

[0074] The subject matter has been described in detail with reference to various specific exemplary embodiments thereof, each example provided for illustrative purposes only and not limiting the disclosure. Those skilled in the art, having understood the foregoing, will readily be able to create modifications, variations, and equivalents of such embodiments. Accordingly, the disclosure does not exclude the inclusion of such modifications, variations, and / or additions to the subject matter that will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used in conjunction with another embodiment to create further embodiments. Accordingly, the disclosure is intended to cover such modifications, variations, and equivalents.

Claims

1. It is a display, A first display area having a first plurality of pixels, A connection area extending from the periphery of the first display area and curved relative to the first display area, A second display area having a second plurality of pixels, the second display area includes a first portion and a second portion, the first portion extending from the connection area in a first direction around the first portion of the peripheral part of the first display area, the second portion extending from the connection area in a second direction opposite to the first direction around the second portion of the peripheral part of the first display area, the second portion of the peripheral part differs from the first portion of the peripheral part, The display further comprises a first plurality of conductors, each of which is electrically coupled to a corresponding pixel of the first plurality of pixels, and the display further comprises The second plurality of conductors are provided, each conductor of the second plurality of conductors is electrically coupled to a corresponding pixel of the second plurality of pixels, and each conductor of the second plurality of conductors extends from the first display area to the second display area via the connection area. A display comprising a second plurality of conductors, each including a first conductor extending from the connection area to the first portion of the second display area, and a second conductor extending from the connection area to the second portion of the second display area, wherein the first conductor extends from the connection area in a first direction, and the second conductor extends from the connection area in a second direction.

2. The display according to claim 1, wherein the total number of pixels included in the first plurality of pixels is different from the total number of pixels included in the second plurality of pixels.

3. The first gap is defined between the first portion of the second display area and the first portion of the peripheral part of the first display area. The display according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second gap is defined between the second portion of the second display area and the second portion of the peripheral portion of the first display area.

4. The display according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a display driver circuit comprising a first memory buffer and a second memory buffer, wherein the first memory buffer is communicably coupled to each of the first plurality of pixels via corresponding conductors of the first plurality of conductors, and the second memory buffer is communicably coupled to each of the second plurality of pixels via corresponding conductors of the second plurality of conductors.

5. The display according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the gap is defined between the end of the first portion of the second display area and the end of the second portion of the second display area.

6. A wearable computing device, Housing and The wearable computing device further comprises a three-dimensional cover disposed on the housing, the three-dimensional cover containing a transparent material and defining the internal volume, and the wearable computing device further comprises The three-dimensional cover comprises a display disposed within the internal volume defined by the three-dimensional cover, and the display is A first display area having a first plurality of pixels, A first connection region extending from the periphery of the first display region and curved relative to the first display region, A second display area having a second plurality of pixels, the second display area includes a first portion and a second portion, the first portion extending from the first connection area in a first direction around the first portion of the peripheral part of the first display area, the second portion extending from the first connection area in a second direction opposite to the first direction around the second portion of the peripheral part of the first display area, the second portion of the peripheral part of the first display area differs from the first portion of the peripheral part of the first display area, The display further comprises a first plurality of conductors, each of which is electrically coupled to a corresponding pixel of the first plurality of pixels, and the display further comprises The second plurality of conductors are provided, each conductor of the second plurality of conductors is electrically coupled to a corresponding pixel of the second plurality of pixels, and each conductor of the second plurality of conductors extends from the first display area to the second display area via the first connection area. A wearable computing device in which the second plurality of conductors comprises a first conductor extending from the first connection region to the first portion of the second display region, and a second conductor extending from the first connection region to the second portion of the second display region, wherein the first conductor extends from the first connection region in a first direction, and the second conductor extends from the first connection region in a second direction.

7. The wearable computing device according to claim 6, wherein the first portion of the second display area and the second portion of the second display area are each coupled to a curved portion on the inner surface of the three-dimensional cover.

8. The wearable computing device according to claim 7, wherein at least one of the first portion of the second display area or the second portion of the second display area is laminated on the curved portion of the inner surface of the three-dimensional cover.

9. The wearable computing device according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the display comprises an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display.

10. The first gap is defined between the first display area and the first portion of the second display area, The wearable computing device according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the second gap is defined between the first display area and the second portion of the second display area.

11. The aforementioned display is The display further comprises a second connection area extending from the peripheral portion of the first display area, the second connection area being spaced apart from the first connection area along the peripheral portion of the first display area, and the display further comprises A wearable computing device according to any one of claims 6 to 10, comprising a third display area having a third plurality of pixels, wherein the third display area includes a first portion extending from the second connection area around a third portion of the periphery of the first display area, and the third display area further includes a second portion extending from the second connection area around a fourth portion of the periphery of the first display area.

12. The aforementioned display is The wearable computing device according to claim 10 or 11, further comprising a display driver circuit comprising a first memory buffer and a second memory buffer, wherein the first memory buffer is communicably coupled to each of the first plurality of pixels via corresponding conductors of the first plurality of conductors, and the second memory buffer is communicably coupled to each of the second plurality of pixels via corresponding conductors of the second plurality of conductors.

13. The wearable computing device according to any one of claims 6 to 12, wherein the second display area is configured as a touchscreen display.

14. The wearable computing device according to any one of claims 6 to 13, wherein the transparent material includes a glass material.

15. A wearable computing device according to any one of claims 6 to 14, further comprising an image sensor, wherein the image sensor is located within the internal volume of the three-dimensional cover such that the image sensor is located behind the second display area of ​​the display.

Images