Wearable electronic device for controlling operation of electronic device, operation method thereof, and storage medium

Abstract

According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (101 or 201) having a ring shape may comprise: at least one first sensor (512) configured to detect a touch input on the wearable electronic device; a second sensor (514) configured to detect a movement of the wearable electronic device; a communication circuit (590); a memory (530); and a processor (520) operatively connected to the at least one first sensor, the second sensor, the communication circuit, and / or the memory. The memory may store instructions which, when executed, cause the wearable electronic device to: detect a touch input through the first sensor; detect a signal indicating a gesture by using the second sensor on the basis of the detection of the touch input; and transmit information indicating the gesture to an electronic device (502) communicatively connected to the wearable electronic device through the communication circuit.

Description

Wearable electronic device for controlling the operation of an electronic device, its operating method and storage medium

[0001] One embodiment disclosed in this document relates to a wearable electronic device for controlling the operation of an electronic device, a method of operating the same, and a storage medium.

[0002] As communication technology advances, wearable electronic devices are becoming smaller and lighter enough to be worn on the body without significant discomfort. For example, wearable electronic devices such as head-mounted display devices (HMDs), smartwatches (or bands), contact lenses, rings, gloves, shoes, and clothing are becoming commercially available. Because wearable electronic devices are worn directly on the body, they can enhance portability and user accessibility.

[0003] In line with the recent consumer trend of placing importance on design, in the development of wearable electronic devices, the usability of wearable electronic devices is also being given important consideration along with the external design of the wearable electronic devices.

[0004] For example, in the case of a wearable electronic device in the form of a ring that can be worn on a user's finger, because it is small in size, it can be worn at all times, and can provide various services for managing the user's health or checking the user's health status by measuring various bio-signals.

[0005] The above information may be provided as background art to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above-described matters constitute prior art related to the present disclosure.

[0006] According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (101, 201) having a ring shape may include at least one first sensor (512) configured to detect a touch input on the wearable electronic device, a second sensor (514) configured to detect a movement of the wearable electronic device, a communication circuit (590), a memory (530), and a processor (520) operatively connected to the at least one first sensor, the second sensor, the communication circuit, and / or the memory.

[0007] According to one embodiment, the memory may store instructions that, when executed, cause the wearable electronic device to detect a touch input via the first sensor.

[0008] According to one embodiment, the instructions may be configured to cause the wearable electronic device to detect a signal indicating a gesture using the second sensor based on detecting the touch input.

[0009] According to one embodiment, the instructions may be configured to cause the wearable electronic device to transmit information indicating the gesture to an electronic device (502) communicatively connected to the wearable electronic device via the communication circuit.

[0010] According to one embodiment, a method for controlling an operation of an electronic device (502) in a wearable electronic device (101, 201) having a ring shape may include an operation of detecting a touch input on the wearable electronic device through at least one first sensor (512).

[0011] According to one embodiment, the method may include detecting a signal representing a gesture using a second sensor (514) for detecting movement of the wearable electronic device based on detecting the touch input.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the method may include transmitting information representing the gesture to an electronic device communicatively connected to the wearable electronic device.

[0013] According to one embodiment, in a non-transitory storage medium storing instructions, the instructions, when executed by at least one processor (120, 520) of a wearable electronic device (101, 201), are set to cause the wearable electronic device to perform at least one operation, wherein the at least one operation may include an operation of detecting a touch input on the wearable electronic device through at least one first sensor (512).

[0014] According to one embodiment, the at least one action may include detecting a signal representing a gesture using a second sensor (514) for detecting movement of the wearable electronic device based on detecting the touch input.

[0015] In one embodiment, the at least one action may include transmitting information representing the gesture to an electronic device communicatively connected to the wearable electronic device.

[0016] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 2 is a drawing for explaining examples of use of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 5A is an internal block diagram of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0021] Figure 5b is a detailed block diagram for user customization according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation for controlling the operation of an electronic device in a wearable electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 7 is a detailed operation flowchart for controlling the operation of an electronic device using gestures by a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 8A is a drawing showing an example of wearing a wearable electronic device corresponding to a first gesture according to one embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 8b is a diagram illustrating a sensor arrangement for detecting a first gesture in a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 9A is a drawing showing an example of wearing a wearable electronic device corresponding to a second gesture according to one embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 9b is a diagram illustrating a sensor arrangement for detecting a second gesture in a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 10 is a drawing for explaining a third gesture of a wearable electronic device for controlling the operation of the electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining a fourth gesture of a wearable electronic device for controlling the operation of the electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 12 is a drawing for explaining a fifth gesture of a wearable electronic device for controlling the operation of the electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0031] In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for the same or similar components.

[0032] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) within a network environment (100), according to one embodiment. Referring to FIG. 1 , in the network environment (100), the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of the electronic device (104) or the server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0033] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor) that can operate independently or together with the main processor (121). For example, when the electronic device (101) includes the main processor (121) and the auxiliary processor (123), the auxiliary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a given function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0034] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0035] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0036] The program (140) may be stored as software in the memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0037] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a processor (120)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The input module (150) can include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0038] The audio output module (155) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (101). The audio output module (155) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. In one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0039] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0040] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150), output sound through the sound output module (155), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (101).

[0041] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (101) or the external environmental status (e.g., user status) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected status. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) can include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0042] The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). In one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0043] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0044] The haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0045] The camera module (180) can capture still images and videos. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0046] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0047] A battery (189) may power at least one component of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0048] The communication module (190) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may operate independently from the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with an external electronic device (104) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can verify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) by using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0049] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). The NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (192) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) can support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less for round trip) for URLLC realization.

[0050] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device via the at least one selected antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0051] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0052] At least some of the above components can be interconnected and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., a bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)).

[0053] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0054] In the detailed description below, reference numerals in the drawings may be used interchangeably or omitted for components that can be easily understood through the preceding embodiments, and their detailed descriptions may also be omitted. An electronic device according to an embodiment disclosed in this document may be implemented by selectively combining components of different embodiments, and components of one embodiment may be replaced by components of another embodiment. For example, it should be noted that the present invention is not limited to specific drawings or embodiments.

[0055] FIG. 2 is a drawing for explaining examples of use of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0056] Referring to FIG. 2, a wearable electronic device (201) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) may be configured to be worn on a user's body. For example, the wearable electronic device (201) may be implemented as a wearable electronic device that can be worn on a user's finger. For example, the wearable electronic device (201) may be provided in the form of a ring that can be worn on a user's finger. For example, the wearable electronic device (201) may be defined and / or referred to as a smart ring.

[0057] According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (201) may perform wireless communication with another electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102, 104) of FIG. 1) via a wireless communication network (e.g., first network (198) or second network (199) of FIG. 1).

[0058] For example, the wearable electronic device (201) can perform wireless communication with other electronic devices such as a smart phone (S1), a desktop / laptop computer (S2, S3), a car (S4), a smart TV (S5), indoor smart home devices (S6), a tablet PC (S7), or a smart watch (S8). The wireless communication between the wearable electronic device (201) and the other electronic devices can be implemented by wireless communication such as a short-range communication network (e.g., the first network (198) of FIG. 1) or a long-range communication network (e.g., the second network (199) of FIG. 1). For example, when a Bluetooth communication link is established between the wearable electronic device (201) and an electronic device that the user wishes to connect, message transmission between the two electronic devices can be possible. In addition, the wearable electronic device (201) worn by the user can generate commands corresponding to specific movements / gestures of the user's fingers and transmit the commands to the other electronic devices.

[0059] According to one embodiment, in order to detect a user's finger movement / gesture, etc., motion sensors such as an accelerometer, a gyroscope, or an electronic compass (e.g., a sensor module (176) of FIG. 1) may be disposed in the wearable electronic device (201). When a message is received from another electronic device to the electronic device (201), the electronic device (201) may notify the user of the message reception using sound, vibration, a display screen, or light (e.g., a light-emitting diode or a xenon lamp). For this purpose, the wearable electronic device (201) may include an acoustic module (e.g., an acoustic output module (155) or an audio module (170) of FIG. 1), a haptic module (e.g., a haptic module (179) of FIG. 1), or a display module (e.g., a display module (160) of FIG. 1). According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (201) may omit at least one of an acoustic module, a haptic module, or a display module. In addition, the wearable electronic device (201) may obtain a user's biometric information (e.g., oxygen saturation) and provide the biometric information to another electronic device.

[0060] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 3, a wearable electronic device (201) may include a housing (210). The housing (210) may form the overall appearance of the wearable electronic device (201).

[0062] According to one embodiment, the housing (210) may be ring-shaped. The housing (210) may include an opening (215) configured to receive a user's finger. For example, the opening may be defined as a hole formed in the housing (210).

[0063] According to one embodiment, the housing (210) may include an outer housing portion (211) or an inner housing portion (213). For example, the inner housing portion (213) may be coupled to the outer housing portion (211). According to one embodiment, the outer housing portion (211) and the inner housing portion (213) may be manufactured separately and assembled, or may be formed integrally.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the outer housing portion (211) may include a material that can withstand external impacts and / or scratches and implement design features. For example, the outer housing portion (211) may include titanium, stainless steel, or ceramic. For example, the outer housing portion (211) may be color-treated or coated to implement the design.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the inner housing portion (213) may include a portion that comes into contact with a user's finger when the user wears the wearable electronic device (201). For example, the inner housing portion (213) may include a material such as a molding material for sensing, transparent plastic, or glass. For example, the inner housing portion (213) may be implemented to be at least partially transparent. For example, the inner housing portion (213) may include a material that is transparent to light for measuring biometric information. At least a portion of the inner housing portion (213) may be made of a material that is substantially the same as or similar to that of the outer housing portion (211). In addition, at least a portion of the inner housing portion (213) may include a metal material for measuring biometric information.

[0066] According to one embodiment, an outer housing portion (211) and an inner housing portion (213) may be combined to provide an internal space of the housing (210). Various electrical / electronic components of the wearable electronic device (201) may be arranged and / or included in the internal space of the housing (210). For example, the housing (210) may accommodate various electrical / electronic components. Refer to FIG. 4 to specifically examine the internal space of the housing (210).

[0067] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0068] The arrangement of components of the wearable electronic device (201) of FIG. 4 is merely an example. Components of the wearable electronic device (201) may be arranged differently from FIG. 4.

[0069] According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (201) may include a housing (400) (e.g., housing (210) of FIG. 3).

[0070] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (201) may include a processor (420). For example, the processor (420) may be a micro controller unit (MCU). In addition, the processor (420) may be an application processor (AP), a supplementary processor (SP, e.g., a sensor hub)), a central processor unit (CPU), a neural processor unit (NPU), a graphics processor unit (GPU), or an internet of things (IoT) processor.

[0071] According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (201) may include a communication module (410).

[0072] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (201) may include an antenna (413). The antenna (413) may be an antenna for wireless communication. For example, the antenna (413) may include a single or multiple segmented antennas. Referring to FIG. 4, a portion of the housing (400) of the wearable electronic device (201) may be utilized as a radiator of the antenna (413).

[0073] According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (201) may include a memory (430). Referring to FIG. 4, the wearable electronic device (201) may store data (e.g., sensing data or communication data) in the memory (430). For example, the memory (430) may be integrated with the processor (420).

[0074] According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (201) may include a photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor (441, 442, 443). The PPG sensor (441, 442, 443) may be a sensor that irradiates light to a living body and receives light that is absorbed, scattered, or reflected. The wearable electronic device (201) may identify a biological signal by using the PPG sensor (441, 442, 443). Referring to FIG. 4, one or more light-emitting units (441) of the PPG sensor may emit light of various bands and may include elements such as a light emitting diode (LED), a laser, or a vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL). For example, the band of the light-emitting unit (441) may include green, red, or IR (Infrared). One or more light-receiving units (442) of the PPG sensor can receive light reflected and / or transmitted from light emitted from the light-emitting unit (441). A signal (e.g., light) acquired through the light-receiving unit (442) can be converted through an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) and stored in a memory (430) or a sensor buffer. For example, the light-receiving unit (442) can include a photodiode (PD) or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS). The control unit (443) of the PPG sensor can be an integrated circuit (IC) or an analog front end (AFE), and can control the light-emitting unit (441) and the light-receiving unit (442), process received data, and transmit the same to the processor (420) or store it in the memory (430).

[0075] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (201) may include an inertial sensor (451). For example, the inertial sensor (451) may be a sensor that detects inertia, such as an acceleration sensor or a gyroscope. Referring to FIG. 4, the inertial sensor (451) may include only an acceleration sensor (e.g., a 3-axis sensor), or may include an acceleration sensor and a gyroscope (e.g., a 6-axis sensor). The wearable electronic device (201) may detect (or sense) gestures, motions, impacts, postures, or activities (sedentary, moving, sports) of the wearable electronic device (201) by using the inertial sensor (451).

[0076] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (201) may include a temperature sensor (452). The temperature sensor (452) may be a sensor that measures the temperature of a living body or a component. The temperature sensor (452) may be a contact-type or a non-contact-type sensor, depending on the method. The temperature value measured by the temperature sensor (452) may be stored in the memory (430) or transmitted to the processor (420). The wearable electronic device (201) (e.g., the controller (313)) may estimate the temperature of a living body, estimate the temperature of the wearable electronic device (201), or recognize the situation around the wearable electronic device (201) by using the temperature sensor (452).

[0077] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (201) may include a battery (460). The battery (460) may be a device that converts and stores chemical energy into electricity to power the wearable electronic device (201). The battery (460) (e.g., a secondary battery) is rechargeable and dischargeable, and may be implemented in various ways depending on the material, such as lithium ion or mercury. Referring to FIG. 4, the battery (460) may include a flexible battery pack corresponding to the housing (400). For example, the battery (460) may include a plurality of non-flexible battery packs. The battery (460) may also include, for example, a flexible battery pack and a non-flexible battery pack.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (201) may include a charging circuit (470). The charging circuit (470) may be configured to support wired charging (e.g., terminal or pogo pin) and / or wireless charging (e.g., WPC or NFC) methods for charging the wearable electronic device (201) (e.g., battery (460)). The wearable electronic device (201) may charge the battery (460) through the charging circuit (470).

[0079] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (201) may include a power management module (480). The power management module (480) may be a module that manages power of the wearable electronic device (201). The wearable electronic device (201) (e.g., controller (313)) may distribute and control power to the processor (420) and sensors (441, 442, 443, 451, 452) through the power management module (480).

[0080] According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (201) may include a substrate (490). For example, the substrate (490) may be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). Referring to FIG. 4, various components, such as a communication module (410), a processor (420), a memory (430), sensors (441, 442, 443, 451, 452), a battery (460), or a power management module (480), may be disposed on the substrate (490). The various components disposed on the substrate (490) may be electrically connected.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (201) may include a sensor module (476). According to one embodiment, the sensor module (476) may include a touch circuit, and the touch circuit may include a touch sensor and a touch sensor IC for controlling the same. The touch sensor IC may control the touch sensor to detect a touch input at a specific location on a surface of, for example, an external housing (e.g., the external housing portion (211) of FIG. 3). For example, the touch sensor IC may detect a touch input by measuring a change in a signal (e.g., voltage, light amount, resistance, or charge amount) at a specific location on the surface. The touch sensor IC may provide information (e.g., location, area, pressure, or time) regarding the detected touch input to the processor (420).

[0082] According to one embodiment, the sensor module (476) may further include a pressure sensor capable of measuring the intensity (pressure) of a touch.

[0083] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the housing (400) of the wearable electronic device (201) (e.g., the outer housing (211) of FIG. 2) may include a display module. For example, when the wearable electronic device (201) includes a display module, the display module may include a touch circuit. For example, the display module may further include at least one sensor (e.g., a pressure sensor) of the sensor module (476) or a control circuit therefor. In this case, the at least one sensor or the control circuit therefor may be embedded in a part of the display module or a part of the touch circuit. For example, when the sensor module (476) embedded in the display module includes a pressure sensor, the pressure sensor may obtain pressure information associated with a touch input through a part or the entire area of ​​the housing (400) (or the display). According to one embodiment, the sensor module (476) including the touch sensor may be disposed between pixels of a pixel layer of the display, or above or below the pixel layer.

[0084] According to one embodiment, the sensor module (476) can detect a touch input for the entire area or a portion of the curved shape of the outer housing.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the sensor module (476) can detect a touch input at a first portion (or first touch area) (476a) of a curved outer housing and a second portion (or second touch area) (476b) spaced apart from the first portion (476a) by a predetermined distance. For example, the first portion (476a) and the second portion (476b) can correspond to a position where the wearable electronic device (201) is touched by a finger and adjacent fingers on both sides when the wearable electronic device (201) is worn on the user's finger.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the sensor module (476) may include a third portion (or third touch area) (476c) that is different from the first portion (476a) and the second portion (476b). In addition, a pressure sensor may be arranged in some of the areas (476a, 476b, 476c) to measure the intensity of the force generated by the touch. According to one embodiment, the pressure sensor may include a plurality of pressure sensors. In addition, the pressure sensors may be arranged at a predetermined interval along the curved shape of the housing so as to enable detection of pressure by a touch input at a specific location on the surface of the entire area or a part of the area surrounding the outer housing.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (201) may include an audio output module, a haptic module, a light output module (e.g., a light emitting diode; LED) or other components (499), which will be described later.

[0088] The wearable electronic device (201) can detect the state of being worn on a finger using a sensor module (476) included in the wearable electronic device (201). According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (201) can generate commands corresponding to specific movements / gestures of the user's finger and transmit them to a communicatively connected electronic device. The commands can be used to control the operation of the electronic device.

[0089] If it is possible to identify whether a gesture made while wearing a wearable electronic device (201) is intended by the user to control the operation of the electronic device, user convenience will be enhanced. Therefore, a process for determining whether the gesture function of the wearable electronic device (201) is to be used for the purpose of controlling the operation of the electronic device needs to be performed in advance. Here, the gesture function may include not only a specific movement / gesture of the finger while the wearable electronic device (201) is worn on the user's finger, but also the movement of the wearable electronic device (201) itself or various touch inputs through the wearable electronic device (201).

[0090] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a wearable electronic device, an operating method thereof, and a storage medium for enabling a gesture reflecting a user's intention to be used to control the operation of the electronic device by identifying the activation point of a gesture function of the wearable electronic device (201).

[0091] FIG. 5A is an internal block diagram of a wearable electronic device according to an embodiment. The wearable electronic device (201) of FIG. 5A may include components identical or similar to those of the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1. In addition, the wearable electronic device (201) may have a ring shape as in FIGS. 2 to 4.

[0092] Referring to FIG. 5A, the wearable electronic device (201) may include a sensor module (510) (e.g., the sensor module (176) of FIG. 1 or the sensor module (476) of FIG. 4), at least one processor (520) (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1 or the processor (420) of FIG. 4), a memory (530) (e.g., the memory (130) of FIG. 1), or communication circuitry (590) (e.g., the communication module (190) of FIG. 1 or the communication module (410) of FIG. 4). The wearable electronic device (201) may further include a haptic module (579) (e.g., the haptic module (179)). According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (201) may omit at least one of the components or additionally include another component.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the sensor module (510) may include at least one sensor, such as a first sensor (512), a second sensor (514), or a third sensor (516). For example, the first sensor (512) may include a touch sensor and / or a pressure sensor for detecting a touch input or a pressure due to a touch input on the wearable electronic device (201).

[0094] The second sensor (514) may include an inertial sensor for detecting movement of the wearable electronic device (201), and the inertial sensor may be an acceleration sensor or a gyroscope. For example, the second sensor (514) may output sensor information (or sensor values) including movement, rotation, rotation angle, inclination, inclination direction, and / or posture of the wearable electronic device (201).

[0095] The third sensor (516) may include a biometric sensor for obtaining biometric signals (or biometric information) of a user wearing the wearable electronic device (201).

[0096] According to one embodiment, activation of a gesture function for controlling an operation of an electronic device (502) communicatively connected to a wearable electronic device (201) may be triggered by a set input method, such as a touch input detected by a touch sensor or a pressure detected by a pressure sensor. For example, the touch input may include a touch pressure according to a user's pressing pressure, a touch contact time (e.g., a long press), or a double touch input (e.g., a contact by fingers on both sides of a worn finger), in addition to a user's touch input to a specific location (or area) detected by the touch sensor. For example, the pressure may include the strength, direction, duration, or change in pressure of the pressure. In the following description, the wearable electronic device (201) and the operating method thereof according to one embodiment are described mainly with respect to the touch input, but those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the processor (520) may control the overall operation of the wearable electronic device (201). For example, the processor (520) may be implemented identically or similarly to the processor (120) of FIG. 1 or the processor (420) of FIG. 4.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the processor (520) may establish a communication connection with the electronic device (502) via the communication circuit (590). For example, the communication circuit (590) may support a short-range communication technology (e.g., Bluetooth, Bluetooth low energy (BLE), or WiFi). The communication connection may be established using any one of the communication technologies supported by the communication circuit (590).

[0099] According to one embodiment, the memory (530) may store instructions configured to detect a touch input through a first sensor (512), detect a signal indicating a gesture using a second sensor (514) based on the detection of the touch input, and transmit information indicating the gesture to an electronic device (502) communicatively connected to the wearable electronic device (201) through the communication circuit (590).

[0100] According to one embodiment, the processor (520) may identify a command for controlling the operation of the electronic device (502) based on a signal representing the gesture and transmit the command to the electronic device (502). According to one embodiment, the processor (520) may transmit information representing the gesture to the electronic device (502) to control the operation of the electronic device (502). For example, the electronic device (502) may control various operations such as quick execution of a designated function, such as a camera function of the electronic device (502), financial payment, or volume control, or control movement of a pointer, based on the information representing the gesture or the command.

[0101] In one embodiment, to determine whether to use the gesture function to control the operation of the electronic device (502), the processor (520) may determine when the gesture function is activated.

[0102] According to one embodiment, the processor (520) may determine whether to activate the gesture function based on the detection of a touch input through the first sensor (512). For example, the processor (520) may activate (or turn on) the gesture function when the location where the touch input is detected is within a specified range from a reference location. For example, the processor (520) may activate the gesture function when the touch input is detected (or received) for a certain period of time within a specified range from the reference location. In one embodiment, if the touch input is detected outside the specified range from the reference location, the processor (520) may output a notification guiding the user to adjust the wearing position. For example, the processor (520) may induce the user to adjust the wearing position by outputting a mechanical stimulus (e.g., vibration or movement) (e.g., vibration feedback twice) through the haptic module (579). For example, the processor (520) may provide the electronic device (201) with a notification to guide adjustment of the wearing position so that the notification is displayed on the display (not shown) of the electronic device (201).

[0103] For example, assuming that the wearable electronic device (201) is divided into four equal parts by 90 degrees based on the central axis, if it is worn in a rotated state on the user's finger, the part that touches the adjacent fingers on both sides of the finger may deviate from a specified range from a specific reference point or reference position. For example, the notification may be stopped when the touch input detected as the user adjusts the wearing position is detected within the specified range. For example, after outputting a notification guiding the user to adjust the wearing position, the processor (520) may continuously or repeatedly output the notification unless the touch input is detected within the specified range.

[0104] According to one embodiment, when a touch input detected as the user adjusts the wearing position is detected for a certain period of time within the specified range, the processor (520) may output a notification (e.g., one vibration feedback) guiding the initiation of a gesture function of the wearable electronic device (201). For example, the notification guiding the initiation of the gesture function may differ from the notification guiding the adjustment of the wearing position in the output method of the notification, such as a vibration pattern, vibration intensity, or number of vibrations.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the processor (520) may detect a signal indicating a gesture through the second sensor (514) after the gesture function is activated. For example, the processor (520) may obtain gesture-related information based on the sensing information sensed by the first sensor (512) as well as the sensing information sensed by the second sensor (514). For example, the processor (520) may transmit the gesture-related information to the electronic device (502) to control the operation of the electronic device (502). In one embodiment, if a touch input is detected again within the specified range for a certain period of time after transmitting the information indicating the gesture, the processor (520) may terminate the operation of detecting a signal indicating a gesture through the second sensor (514) since the touch input is a user input intended to terminate the gesture function.

[0106] When wearing a wearable electronic device (201), each user may wear it on a different finger and in a different way. Therefore, if the user's wearing status can be distinguished, user customization is possible. To illustrate this, refer to FIG. 5b. FIG. 5b is a detailed block diagram for user customization according to one embodiment.

[0107] Referring to FIG. 5b, the wearable electronic device (201) can store (522) a touch sensor value related thereto when worn in a normal position (521). The wearable electronic device (201) can perform user calibration (523) based on the stored touch sensor value.

[0108] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (201) can identify which finger of which hand it is worn based on the touch sensor value acquired through the first sensor (512). For example, when the wearable electronic device (201) is worn on the middle finger compared to the ring finger, the touch area by the adjacent fingers on either side may be wider, so the worn finger can be identified. If it is assumed that the user mainly wears the wearable electronic device (201) on the middle finger, touch inputs by the fingers on either side of the middle finger can be detected within a specified range. If the touch sensor value is utilized in this way, customization for each user may be possible, making it possible to identify the user.

[0109] According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (101, 201) having a ring shape may include at least one first sensor (512) configured to detect a touch input on the wearable electronic device, a second sensor (514) configured to detect a movement of the wearable electronic device, a communication circuit (590), a memory (530), and a processor (520) operatively connected to the at least one first sensor, the second sensor, the communication circuit, and / or the memory.

[0110] According to one embodiment, the memory may store instructions that, when executed, cause the wearable electronic device to detect a touch input via the first sensor.

[0111] According to one embodiment, the instructions may be configured to cause the wearable electronic device to detect a signal indicating a gesture using the second sensor based on detecting the touch input.

[0112] According to one embodiment, the instructions may be configured to cause the wearable electronic device to transmit information indicating the gesture to an electronic device (502) communicatively connected to the wearable electronic device via the communication circuit.

[0113] In one embodiment, the instructions may be configured to cause the wearable electronic device to, based on detecting the touch input, identify whether a location where the touch input is detected is within a specified range from a reference location, and, in response to identifying that the location where the touch input is detected is within the specified range, detect a signal indicating the gesture using the second sensor.

[0114] According to one embodiment, the instructions may be configured to cause the wearable electronic device to output a notification guiding adjustment of a wearing position of the wearable electronic device in response to identifying that a location where the touch input is detected is outside the designated range.

[0115] According to one embodiment, the instructions may be configured to cause the wearable electronic device to output a notification guiding initiation of a gesture function of the wearable electronic device in response to identifying that the location where the touch input is detected is within the specified range from the reference location.

[0116] According to one embodiment, the instructions may be configured to cause the wearable electronic device to identify a command for controlling an operation of the electronic device based on a signal representing the gesture, and to transmit the command for controlling the operation of the electronic device to the electronic device through the communication circuit.

[0117] In one embodiment, the instructions may be configured to cause the wearable electronic device to, based on detecting the touch input, identify whether the touch input is maintained within the specified range for a predetermined period of time, and, in response to identifying that the touch input is maintained within the specified range for a predetermined period of time, detect a signal indicating the gesture using the second sensor.

[0118] In one embodiment, the instructions may be configured to cause the wearable electronic device to terminate the operation of detecting a signal indicative of the gesture in response to identifying that the touch input is maintained within the designated range for a predetermined period of time after transmitting information indicative of the gesture.

[0119] According to one embodiment, the at least one first sensor may include a first portion and a second portion spaced apart from the first portion by a predetermined distance so that, when the wearable electronic device is worn on a first finger of a user, the first portion and the second portion are in contact with adjacent fingers on both sides of the first finger.

[0120] In one embodiment, the instructions may be configured to cause the wearable electronic device to detect a combination of touch inputs through the first portion and the second portion of the first sensor, and in response to detecting the combination of touch inputs, to detect a signal representing the gesture using the second sensor.

[0121] According to one embodiment, the at least one first sensor may include a sensing circuit connected to the first portion and the second portion of the first sensor.

[0122] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation for controlling an operation of an electronic device in a wearable electronic device according to an embodiment. Referring to FIG. 6, the operation method may include operations 605 to 615. Each operation of the operation method of FIG. 6 may be performed by at least one of a wearable electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 or the wearable electronic device (201) of FIGS. 2 to 5A), and at least one processor of the wearable electronic device (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1 or the processor (520) of FIG. 5). In an embodiment, at least one of operations 605 to 615 may be omitted, the order of some operations may be changed, or another operation may be added.

[0123] According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (201) having a ring shape can detect a touch input on the wearable electronic device through at least one first sensor (512) in operation 605 to control the operation of the electronic device (502).

[0124] According to one embodiment, the at least one first sensor may include a first portion and a second portion spaced apart from the first portion by a predetermined distance so that, when the wearable electronic device is worn on a first finger of a user, the first portion and the second portion are in contact with adjacent fingers on both sides of the first finger.

[0125] In operation 610, the wearable electronic device (201) may detect a signal indicating a gesture using a second sensor (514) for detecting movement of the wearable electronic device based on detecting the touch input. According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (201) may detect a combination of touch inputs through the first portion and the second portion of the first sensor. The wearable electronic device (201) may detect a signal indicating the gesture in response to detecting the combination of the touch inputs.

[0126] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (201) can, based on detecting the touch input, identify whether the location where the touch input is detected is within a specified range from a reference location. In response to identifying that the location where the touch input is detected is within the specified range, the wearable electronic device (201) can detect a signal indicating the gesture.

[0127] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (201) may, based on detecting the touch input, identify whether the touch input is maintained for a predetermined period of time within the specified range. In response to identifying that the touch input is maintained for a predetermined period of time within the specified range, the wearable electronic device (201) may detect a signal indicating the gesture.

[0128] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (201) may output a notification guiding adjustment of the wearing position of the wearable electronic device in response to identifying that the location where the touch input is detected is outside the specified range.

[0129] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (201) may output a notification guiding the initiation of a gesture function of the wearable electronic device in response to identifying that the location where the touch input is detected is within the specified range from the reference location.

[0130] In operation 615, the wearable electronic device (201) may transmit information indicating the gesture to an electronic device communicatively connected to the wearable electronic device (201) based on detecting a signal indicating the gesture. For example, the wearable electronic device (201) may identify a control target operation by using the information indicating the gesture in the electronic device by only providing the information indicating the gesture to the electronic device.

[0131] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (201) can identify a command for controlling an operation of the electronic device based on a signal representing the gesture. The wearable electronic device (201) can transmit a command for controlling an operation of the electronic device to the electronic device. For example, the wearable electronic device (201) can recognize (or analyze) a gesture and determine a command for controlling an operation of the electronic device that is mapped to (or corresponds to) the recognized gesture among set control commands. The wearable electronic device (201) can provide the determined command to the electronic device. According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (201) can terminate an operation for detecting a signal representing the gesture in response to identifying that the touch input is maintained for a predetermined period of time within the designated range after transmitting information representing the gesture.

[0132] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an operation for controlling an operation of an electronic device using a gesture by a wearable electronic device according to an embodiment. Referring to FIG. 7, the operation method may include operations 705 to 740. Each operation of the operation method of FIG. 7 may be performed by at least one of a wearable electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 or the wearable electronic device (201) of FIGS. 2 to 5A), and at least one processor of the wearable electronic device (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1 or the processor (520) of FIG. 5). In an embodiment, at least one of operations 705 to 740 may be omitted, the order of some operations may be changed, or another operation may be added.

[0133] To help understand the description of FIG. 7, the description will be made with reference to FIGS. 8A to 12. FIG. 8A is a diagram showing an example of wearing a wearable electronic device corresponding to a first gesture according to an embodiment, and FIG. 8B is a diagram explaining a sensor arrangement for detecting the first gesture in a wearable electronic device according to an embodiment. FIG. 9A is a diagram showing an example of wearing a wearable electronic device corresponding to a second gesture according to an embodiment, and FIG. 9B is a diagram explaining a sensor arrangement for detecting the second gesture in a wearable electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0134] According to one embodiment, in operation 705, the wearable electronic device (201) can identify whether an activation start signal of a gesture function is received.

[0135] Referring to FIGS. 8A and 8B, when a user wears a wearable electronic device (201) on a finger as illustrated in 800a, a touch input can be detected through portions (810a, 810b) that are in contact with parts of fingers adjacent to both sides of the worn finger. The first portion (810a) and the second portion (810b) can correspond to positions that are in contact with the fingers adjacent to the worn finger when the user wears the wearable electronic device (201) on the finger. For example, the first portion (810a) (e.g., the first portion (476a) of FIG. 4) and the second portion (810b) (e.g., the second portion (476b) of FIG. 4) can be formed in a specific shape, relief, or intaglio so as to guide a wearing position.

[0136] For example, as illustrated in 800a, when a user maintains a state in which fingers are placed together for a certain period of time, a touch input can be detected through the first portion (810a) and the second portion (810b), as illustrated in 800b. As illustrated in 800c, when the wearable electronic device (201) is viewed from the side, not only a touch input but also a pressure input can be detected through the first portion (810a) and the second portion (810b).

[0137] Referring to FIGS. 9A and 9B, while wearing the wearable electronic device (201), a user can hold a touch input for a predetermined period of time on the third part (810c) of the wearable electronic device (201) corresponding to the inside of the finger (e.g., the third part (476c) of FIG. 4) with the fingers spread out and the thumb held in a fist as shown in FIG. 900A. For example, when a touch input is held for a predetermined period of time with the fist clenched or the thumb held in a fist clenched or a touch input held in a thumb clenched state, the touch input can be detected through the third part (810c) as shown in FIG. 900C. The third part (810c) of FIG. 9B may be a different part from the first part (810a) and the second part (810b) of FIG. 8B. As shown in 900d, when the wearable electronic device (201) is viewed from the side, not only touch input but also pressure input can be detected through the third portion (810c).

[0138] As described above, when a touch input is detected through the first part (810a) and the second part (810b) of FIGS. 8a and 8b or a touch input is detected through the third part (810c) of FIG. 9b, the wearable electronic device (201) can determine that the touch input is a start signal for activating a gesture function.

[0139] According to one embodiment, in response to identifying that an activation start signal of a gesture function is received, in operation 710, the wearable electronic device (201) can identify a normal wearing state. For example, each of the first part (810a) and the second part (810b) of FIG. 8B can be in contact with fingers on both sides within a specified range (d) based on a reference axis (or reference position), and the wearable electronic device (201) can identify a normal wearing state when a touch input is detected within the specified range (d).

[0140] In response to identifying that the above-described non-normal wearing state is not in operation 740, the wearable electronic device (201) may output guidance for adjusting the wearing position. For example, the wearable electronic device (201) may output a notification inducing wearing. On the other hand, if a touch input is detected at a location outside the designated range (d) of FIG. 8B, the wearable electronic device (201) may be identified as not in a normal wearing state.

[0141] In response to identifying the above normal wearing state, in operation 715, the wearable electronic device (201) can identify whether the reception of the start signal is maintained for a certain period of time. For example, if the reception of the start signal is not maintained for a certain period of time, the wearable electronic device (201) may ignore the received start signal and terminate the operation for activating the gesture function, since it is not an input for activating the gesture function. As another example, if the reception of the start signal is not maintained for a certain period of time, since it is not an input for activating the gesture function, the wearable electronic device (201) may ignore the received start signal and perform operation 705.

[0142] On the other hand, in response to identifying that the reception of the above start signal is maintained for a certain period of time, in operation 720, the wearable electronic device (201) may output a notification regarding the activation and activation status of the gesture function. If a touch input through the first part (810a) and the second part (810b) of FIGS. 8A and 8B is detected for a certain period of time or a touch input through the third part (810c) of FIG. 9B is detected for a certain period of time, it may be determined that the touch input is an intended input for activating the gesture function. Accordingly, the wearable electronic device (201) may activate (or turn on) the gesture function. For example, the wearable electronic device (201) may generate a notification regarding the activation status of the gesture function. For example, if the wearable electronic device (201) includes a light-emitting device (e.g., an LED), it may generate a notification (e.g., light) corresponding to the activation status. For example, the wearable electronic device (201) may include a haptic module or an audio output module and may generate a notification (e.g., sound or vibration) corresponding to the activation state. The wearable electronic device (201) may output a notification (e.g., light, sound, or vibration) corresponding to the activation state in a pattern specified by the user.

[0143] In operation 725, the wearable electronic device (201) may detect a signal representing a gesture and transmit it to the connected electronic device (502). For example, the wearable electronic device (201) may provide information according to a touch input sliding on the surface of the wearable electronic device (201) to the electronic device (502), as illustrated in FIG. 10. Here, FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a third gesture of the wearable electronic device for controlling the operation of the electronic device according to one embodiment. For example, the sliding touch input may be used to control a swipe operation of the electronic device (502), but the control operation is not limited thereto.

[0144] For example, as illustrated in 1100a of FIG. 11, when the first part (1110a) and the second part (1110b) of the wearable electronic device (201) are rotated 90 degrees at the time t1 and at the time t2, the wearable electronic device (201) can control the set operation of the electronic device (502) according to the rotation angle (or rotation amount). For example, the rotation of the rotation axis can function as a wheel of the electronic device (502), such as a smart watch. Here, FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining a fourth gesture of the wearable electronic device for controlling the operation of the electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0145] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a fifth gesture of a wearable electronic device for controlling the operation of the electronic device according to an embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 12, a gesture, such as a movement of a user rotating a finger while wearing the wearable electronic device (201), may also be used as a command for controlling the operation of the electronic device (502).

[0146] While the function of the above gesture is activated, in operation 730, the wearable electronic device (201) can identify whether an activation termination signal of the gesture function is received for a certain period of time or longer. For example, if an activation termination signal of the gesture function is not received for a certain period of time or longer, the wearable electronic device (201) can return to operation 725 and perform an operation of detecting a signal indicating a gesture. For example, the wearable electronic device (201) can maintain the activation state of the gesture function as long as a signal for terminating the gesture function is not received.

[0147] If the activation termination signal of the gesture function is received for a certain period of time or longer, in operation 735, the wearable electronic device (201) may output a notification about the deactivation and deactivation state of the gesture function. If a touch input through the first part (810a) and the second part (810b) of FIGS. 8A and 8B is detected for a certain period of time or a touch input through the third part (810c) of FIG. 9B is detected for a certain period of time, the touch input may be determined to be an intended input for deactivating the gesture function. If a touch input is detected again for a certain period of time while the gesture function is activated, the touch input may be determined to be an intended input for deactivating the gesture function. The signal for terminating the gesture function may be similar or identical to the signal for activating the gesture function, but its type may not be limited thereto. For example, if the signal for activating the gesture function is a first type signal (e.g., a touch input by fingers on both sides of FIG. 8a), the signal for deactivating the gesture function may be a second type signal (e.g., a fist clenched in FIG. 9a, or a touch with one finger).

[0148] The wearable electronic device (201) can deactivate (or turn off) the gesture function by stopping the operation of the sensor for identifying the gesture function, and can output a notification regarding the deactivation state. For example, a user can confirm that the gesture function of the wearable electronic device (201) has been terminated through the notification regarding the deactivation state.

[0149] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0150] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0151] The term "module" used in various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integral component, or a minimum unit or part of such a component that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0152] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (136) or an external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0153] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided as a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between sellers and buyers as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a device-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)) or may be provided through an application store (e.g., Play Store). TM ) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones), online distribution (e.g., downloading or uploading). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be at least temporarily stored or temporarily created in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0154] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0155] According to one embodiment, in a non-transitory storage medium storing instructions, the instructions, when executed by at least one processor (120, 520) of a wearable electronic device (101, 201), are set to cause the wearable electronic device to perform at least one operation, wherein the at least one operation may include an operation of detecting a touch input on the wearable electronic device through at least one first sensor (512).

[0156] According to one embodiment, the at least one action may include detecting a signal representing a gesture using a second sensor (514) for detecting movement of the wearable electronic device based on detecting the touch input.

[0157] In one embodiment, the at least one action may include transmitting information representing the gesture to an electronic device communicatively connected to the wearable electronic device.

Claims

1. In a wearable electronic device (101, 201) having a ring shape, At least one first sensor (512) configured to detect a touch input on the wearable electronic device; A second sensor (514) configured to detect movement of the wearable electronic device; Communication circuit (590); memory (530); and A processor (520) operatively connected to at least one of the first sensor, the second sensor, the communication circuit and / or the memory, wherein the memory, when executed, causes the wearable electronic device to: Detecting touch input through the first sensor, Based on detecting the above touch input, a signal indicating a gesture is detected using the second sensor, A wearable electronic device having a ring shape, storing instructions set to transmit information indicating the gesture to an electronic device (502) communicatively connected to the wearable electronic device through the communication circuit.

2. In the first paragraph, the instructions cause the wearable electronic device to: Based on detecting the above touch input, identifying whether the location where the touch input is detected is within a specified range from a reference location, A wearable electronic device having a ring shape, configured to detect a signal representing the gesture using the second sensor in response to identifying that the location where the touch input is detected is within the specified range.

3. In the first or second paragraph, the instructions cause the wearable electronic device to: A wearable electronic device having a ring shape, set to output a notification guiding adjustment of a wearing position of the wearable electronic device in response to identifying that a location where the touch input is detected is out of the specified range.

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, the instructions cause the wearable electronic device to: A wearable electronic device having a ring shape, configured to output a notification guiding the initiation of a gesture function of the wearable electronic device in response to identifying that the location where the touch input is detected is within the specified range from the reference location.

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, the instructions cause the wearable electronic device to: Based on the signal representing the above gesture, a command for controlling the operation of the electronic device is identified, A wearable electronic device having a ring shape, configured to transmit a command to control the operation of the electronic device to the electronic device through the communication circuit.

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, the instructions cause the wearable electronic device to: Based on detecting the above touch input, identifying whether the touch input is maintained for a certain period of time within the above specified range, In response to identifying that the touch input is maintained for a predetermined period of time within the above-mentioned specified range, detecting a signal representing the gesture using the second sensor, A wearable electronic device having a ring shape, configured to terminate an operation of detecting a signal representing the gesture in response to identifying that the touch input is maintained for a predetermined period of time within the designated range after transmitting information representing the gesture.

7. A wearable electronic device in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the at least one first sensor has a ring shape, wherein the first portion and the second portion include a first portion and a second portion spaced apart from the first portion by a predetermined distance so that adjacent fingers on both sides of the first finger come into contact with each other when the wearable electronic device is worn on a user's first finger.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, the instructions cause the wearable electronic device to: Detecting a combination of touch inputs through the first part and the second part of the first sensor, A wearable electronic device having a ring shape, configured to detect a signal representing the gesture using the second sensor in response to detecting a combination of the above touch inputs.

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, the at least one first sensor, A wearable electronic device having a ring shape, comprising a sensing circuit connected to the first part and the second part of the first sensor.

10. A method for controlling the operation of an electronic device (502) in a wearable electronic device (101, 201) having a ring shape, An operation of detecting a touch input on the wearable electronic device via at least one first sensor (512); An operation of detecting a signal representing a gesture using a second sensor (514) for detecting movement of the wearable electronic device based on detecting the above touch input; and A method for controlling operation of an electronic device, comprising transmitting information representing the gesture to an electronic device communicatively connected to the wearable electronic device.

11. In the 10th paragraph, the operation of detecting a signal indicating the gesture is as follows: An operation of identifying whether the location where the touch input is detected is within a specified range from a reference location based on detecting the touch input; and A method for controlling operation of an electronic device, comprising: detecting a signal representing the gesture in response to identifying that the location where the touch input is detected is within the specified range.

12. In clause 10 or 11, A method for controlling the operation of an electronic device, comprising: outputting a notification guiding adjustment of a wearing position of the wearable electronic device in response to identifying that a location where the touch input is detected is outside the specified range.

13. In either of paragraphs 10 or 12, A method for controlling the operation of an electronic device, comprising an action of outputting a notification guiding the initiation of a gesture function of the wearable electronic device in response to identifying that the location where the touch input is detected is within the specified range from the reference location.

14. In either of paragraphs 10 or 13, An action for identifying a command for controlling the operation of the electronic device based on a signal representing the gesture; and A method for controlling the operation of an electronic device, comprising the action of transmitting a command to the electronic device for controlling the operation of the electronic device.

15. In a non-transitory storage medium storing instructions, the instructions, when executed by at least one processor (120, 520) of a wearable electronic device (101, 201), are set to cause the wearable electronic device to perform at least one operation, the at least one operation being: An operation of detecting a touch input on the wearable electronic device via at least one first sensor (512); An operation of detecting a signal representing a gesture using a second sensor (514) for detecting movement of the wearable electronic device based on detecting the above touch input; and A storage medium comprising an action of transmitting information indicating the gesture to an electronic device communicatively connected to the wearable electronic device.

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