Wearable electronic device and biometric information measurement method therefor

Abstract

A wearable electronic device according to one embodiment comprises: a circular housing including an opening; a first sensor including a light source disposed on a first surface of the housing; a second sensor in which internal electrodes are disposed on the first surface of the housing and a plurality of external electrodes are disposed in a segmented form on a second surface of the housing; a processor including processing circuitry; and a memory for storing instructions executable by the processor, wherein, when executed by the processor, the instructions can instruct the wearable electronic device to: recognize wearing of the wearable electronic device on the basis of the first sensor; selectively activate external electrodes in biological contact among the plurality of external electrodes on the basis of a lead-off value for each electrode measured by transmitting current to each external electrode through the internal electrodes; and measure biometric information by using external electrodes of which body impedance is measured to be greater than or equal to a threshold value among body impedances measured from the selectively activated external electrodes among the external electrodes.

Description

Wearable device and method for measuring biometric information thereof

[0001] The present invention relates to a wearable device and a method for measuring biometric information thereof.

[0002] With the recent rise in interest in health, wearable electronic devices capable of measuring various biometric data are being released in various forms. For example, a ring-type wearable device worn on the user's finger is being released.

[0003] Since wearable devices are worn on the user's body and operate, they can be used to acquire various biometric data of the user by utilizing biometric sensors. The biometric sensors may include an electrocardiogram (ECG) sensor or a bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) sensor that detects bioelectrical potential (e.g., a potential difference that occurs when cardiac muscles contract and relax) detected between electrodes using electrodes. The BIA sensor can measure body composition of the human body by measuring body impedance that occurs when current flows through the human body when the user's body and the electrodes (or bioelectrodes) come into contact.

[0004] 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.

[0005] In the case of biosensors using electrodes (e.g., ECG / BIA sensors), biologically meaningful measurement data can be generated when the electrodes come into contact with different parts of the body (e.g., both hands). Therefore, a ring-type wearable device may have internal electrodes placed in locations where the worn finger can come into contact, and external electrodes placed in locations where the other hand can come into contact. However, due to the structural characteristics of a ring-type wearable device, the external electrodes are not visible when the user is wearing it, which may be inconvenient for the user to manually find the external electrodes with their eyes and bring another finger into contact with them. In particular, if the wearable electronic device is rotated or turned while worn on the finger, the locations where the external electrodes are placed may have to be individually searched for.

[0006] Various embodiments propose a method, device and recording medium capable of measuring biometric information by activating only bioelectrodes corresponding to a user's physical contact location.

[0007] The problem to be solved in this disclosure is not limited to the problem mentioned above, and may be expanded in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0008] A wearable device according to one embodiment may include a circular housing including an opening. A wearable device according to one embodiment may include a first sensor including a light source disposed on a first surface of the housing. A wearable device according to one embodiment may include a second sensor including internal electrodes disposed on the first surface of the housing and a plurality of external electrodes disposed in a segmented form on a second surface of the housing. A wearable device according to one embodiment may include a processor including processing circuitry. A wearable device according to one embodiment may include a memory storing instructions executable by the processor. When executed by the processor according to one embodiment, the instructions may cause the wearable device to recognize that the wearable device is being worn based on the first sensor. The commands according to one embodiment, when executed by the processor, may selectively activate external electrodes in contact with a living body among the plurality of external electrodes based on a lead-off value for each electrode measured by transmitting current to each external electrode through the internal electrode. The commands according to one embodiment, when executed by the processor, may measure biometric information using external electrodes whose body impedance is measured to be higher than a threshold value among body impedances measured from external electrodes that are selectively activated among the external electrodes.

[0009] According to one embodiment, the operation of measuring bio-information using external electrodes whose body impedance is measured to be less than a threshold value may further include an operation of controlling the light emission state of a first color light source or a second color light source included in the first sensor to output bioelectrical impedance analysis signal or electrocardiogram signal measurement state information.

[0010] A non-transitory computer-readable recording medium storing instructions according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may cause the electronic device to perform operations when executed by a processor of the electronic device, the operations including: recognizing wearing of the wearable device based on a first sensor; selectively activating external electrodes in contact with a living body among a plurality of external electrodes based on a lead-off value for each electrode measured through a second sensor including an internal electrode and a plurality of external electrodes; and measuring bio-information using external electrodes whose body impedance is measured to be greater than a threshold value among body impedances measured from external electrodes selectively activated among the external electrodes.

[0011] An electronic device, method, and recording medium according to one embodiment can improve user convenience by detecting only the bioelectrode corresponding to the point touched by the user without requiring the user to recognize the placement location of the bioelectrode, and activating only the detected bioelectrode to measure bioinformation.

[0012] An electronic device, method, and recording medium according to one embodiment can eliminate the inconvenience of having to individually locate bioelectrodes due to changes in the position (e.g., rotation) of the electronic device while wearing the electronic device.

[0013] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0014] In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for the same or similar components.

[0015] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) within a network environment (100) according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 2A illustrates a drawing for explaining the arrangement structure of a biosensor included in a wearable device according to one embodiment.

[0017] Figure 2b illustrates a block diagram of a wearable device according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating a connection structure of electrodes constituting a second sensor according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 4 illustrates a drawing for explaining a method for measuring biometric information of a wearable device according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 5A illustrates a drawing for explaining an activated external electrode among the external electrodes constituting a second sensor according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 5b illustrates a diagram for explaining a closed loop signal due to body impedance according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 6 illustrates a diagram for explaining an indicator function for guiding a biometric measurement status of a wearable device according to one embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 7 illustrates a diagram for explaining a linkage function between a wearable device and an external electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 8 illustrates a drawing for explaining a biometric measurement method of a wearable device according to one embodiment.

[0025] Each of the embodiments described with reference to the drawings of this disclosure can be independently configured as a single embodiment. Each of the embodiments described with reference to the drawings of this disclosure can operate independently as a single embodiment.

[0026] At least two embodiments described with reference to the drawings of this disclosure may be combined and configured. At least two embodiments described with reference to the drawings of this disclosure may be combined and operated. For example, at least a portion of the embodiment of FIG. 1 and at least a portion of the embodiment of FIG. 2 may be combined and operated.

[0027] When at least two embodiments described with reference to the drawings of the present disclosure are combined, at least some of the configurations and / or at least some of the operations included in each embodiment may be omitted.

[0028] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to one embodiment.

[0029] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to 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) (or display), 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)).

[0030] The processor (120) includes at least one processing circuitry, and the at least one processing circuitry may control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) by executing, for example, software (e.g., a program (140)), 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 the volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in the 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.

[0031] 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, in the electronic device (101) itself where artificial intelligence is performed, 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.

[0032] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., the processor (120) or the sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., the program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include a volatile memory (132) or a non-volatile memory (134). The memory (130) can store instructions executable by the processor (120) or the electronic device (101).

[0033] 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).

[0034] 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).

[0035] 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.

[0036] The display module (160) (or display) 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. In 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.

[0037] 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).

[0038] The sensor module (176) may include at least one sensor. The sensor module (176) may detect an operating state (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (101) or an external environmental state (e.g., user state) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) may 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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).

[0041] A 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. In one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0042] The camera module (180) includes at least one camera and can capture still images and moving images. In one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0043] 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, for example, as at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0044] 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.

[0045] The communication module (190) includes at least one communication circuit and can 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) operates independently from the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and can include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) can 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).

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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 by, for example, the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device through the selected at least one 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).

[0048] In one embodiment, 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.

[0049] 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)).

[0050] 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.

[0051] The electronic device (101) according to the embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. The electronic device (101) may include, for example, a portable communication device (e.g., a smartphone), a computer device, a portable multimedia device, a portable medical device, a camera, a wearable device, or a home appliance device. The electronic device (101) according to the embodiments of this document is not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0052] In describing the embodiments below, the electronic device (101) is given the same reference numerals for components that are substantially the same as the configuration disclosed in FIG. 1 described above, and redundant descriptions of their functions may be omitted.

[0053] The following embodiments will be described as an example in which an electronic device (101) is implemented as a ring-type wearable device (201), but this is merely an example and is not limited thereto. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can be applied to bracelet-type wearable devices, or open-type ring-type electronic devices with a portion open, or curved or non-curved electronic devices.

[0054] FIG. 2a illustrates a drawing for explaining the arrangement structure of a biosensor included in a wearable device according to one embodiment, and FIG. 2b illustrates a block diagram of the wearable device according to one embodiment.

[0055] Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, a wearable device (201) according to one embodiment may include a first sensor (210), a second sensor (220), a communication module (190), a memory (130), and a processor (120). The wearable device (201) may omit at least one of the above components, or may have one or more other components (e.g., an input module (150)) as illustrated in FIG. 1 added.

[0056] According to one embodiment, a wearable device (201) may be a ring-type wearable device having an opening inside so that it can be worn on a user's finger. Although the drawing illustrates an example in which the wearable device (201) is formed in a ring-type shape, the wearable device (201) may be formed in various shapes such as a square or a polygon. The wearable device (201) may have a circular housing structure. A first surface of the circular housing may refer to a surface (e.g., an inner surface) that a user's finger touches when the ring-type wearable device (201) is worn on the user's finger. A second surface of the housing may refer to a surface (e.g., an outer surface) that a user's finger does not touch when the ring-type wearable device (201) is worn on the user's finger. At least a portion of the first sensor (210) and the second sensor (220) may be arranged on at least a portion of the housing.

[0057] The first sensor (210) and the second sensor (220) may refer to biosensors. The first sensor (210) may include a biosensor using an optical signal, and the second sensor (220) may include a biosensor using electrodes.

[0058] The first sensor (210) (or first biometric sensor) can detect the proximity of an object or obtain first biometric data (or first biometric information). For example, the first sensor (210) may include, but is not limited to, a proximity sensor, a biometric optical sensor, a photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor, or / and an infrared ray (IR) sensor. The first sensor (210) may transmit sensing data or first biometric data to the processor (120). The processor (120) may determine whether the wearable device is worn or not based on the sensing data transmitted from the first sensor (210). The processor (120) can determine a biological characteristic (e.g., photoplethysmograph (PPG), heart rate (HR), heart rate variation (HRV), oxygen saturation (SpO2), blood pressure (BP), and / or blood glucose (BG)) based on a signal pattern or change over time of the first biological data transmitted from the first sensor (210).

[0059] According to one embodiment, the first sensor (210) may include a light emitting unit (2110) (e.g., a light source, a light emitting diode (LED), an infrared ray (IR)) and a light receiving unit (2120) (e.g., a light detector, a photodiode (PD)). The first sensor (210) may output a signal through the light emitting unit (2110) and receive a signal reflected by the signal output through the light receiving unit (2120) to obtain sensing data or first biometric data.

[0060] The light emitting portion (2110) and the light receiving portion (2120) of the first sensor (210) may be positioned so as to be exposed on the first surface of the housing. As illustrated in FIG. 2A, the first sensor (210) is positioned in the form of a protrusion exposed on the first surface of the housing, but is not limited thereto, and may be implemented in a form mounted inside the housing.

[0061] The first sensor (210) and the second sensor (220) may be implemented in separate configurations, but may also be implemented in an integrated form connected to one sensor IC.

[0062] The second sensor (220) includes at least two electrodes (e.g., ECG electrodes), and can obtain second bio-data (or second bio-information) by making contact with a part of the user's body / body (e.g., a finger) through the electrodes. The second sensor (220) can output current through the electrodes, and obtain second bio-data based on a current received from the user's body / body by the output current. For example, the second sensor (220) may be an ECG (electrocardiogram) sensor that detects a bio-potential (e.g., a potential difference generated when a heart muscle contracts and relaxes) detected between the electrodes and amplifies the same to measure (or record) an electrocardiogram, but is not limited thereto. The ECG sensor can generate a biologically meaningful ECG signal by forming a closed loop state when the electrodes (e.g., the internal electrode (2210) and the external electrode (2220)) make contact with another part of the body (e.g., both hands). If a closed loop state is not established between the ECG sensor and the living body, the signals from the electrodes are classified as biologically meaningless values ​​and may be recognized as noise or unmeasurable.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the second sensor (220) may include an inner electrode (2210), an outer electrode (2220), a sensor IC (2230), and a multiplexer (2240). The inner electrode (2210) may be disposed on a first surface of the housing, as illustrated in FIG. 2A, and the outer electrode (2220) may be disposed on a second surface of the housing. The inner electrode (2210) may include two inner electrodes (e.g., I1, I2) disposed on the first surface of the housing. For example, one of the inner electrodes (2210) may be used as a right leg drive (RLD) electrode or an INM electrode (e.g., an ECG negative input), and the other may be used as an INP (e.g., an ECG positive input) electrode. When a user wears a wearable device (201), the internal electrodes (2210) can be in contact with the user's fingers, and the external electrodes (2220) can be in contact with the user's opposite fingers.

[0064] The external electrode (2220) is arranged on the second surface of the housing as shown in FIG. 2A, and a plurality of external electrodes (e.g., E1, E2, E3, E) surround the entire second surface of the housing. n ) can be formed in a separated / segmented structure. Each external electrode can be connected to a sensor IC (2230) through a multiplexer (2240). In FIG. 2A, the external electrodes are illustrated as being segmented into a total of 22, but the number of external electrodes is not limited thereto. As illustrated in FIG. 2A, since the external electrode (2220) is formed in a structure segmented into a plurality of external electrodes, when a living body (e.g., an opposite finger) is brought into contact, only the external electrodes that are brought into contact with the living body are selectively activated, and the external electrodes that are not brought into contact with the living body are deactivated, so that the user does not have to search for the external electrodes for bringing into contact with the living body one by one.

[0065] A multiplexer (2240) is placed between a sensor IC (2230) and external electrodes (2220), and can perform a role of switching to selectively activate or deactivate the external electrodes under the control of the processor (120). According to one embodiment, the multiplexer (2240) may be replaced with a switch circuit.

[0066] Although not shown in the drawing, the wearable device (201) may further include other sensors that detect various information such as movement information, environmental information, and location information. For example, the wearable device (201) may further include an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a proximity sensor, an ambient light sensor or luminance sensor, an iris sensor, a temperature-humidity sensor, a touch sensor, an elevation sensor, a gesture sensor, a barometer sensor, a magnetic sensor, a grip sensor, and / or a time of flight (ToF) sensor.

[0067] The communication module (190) includes at least one communication circuit and, under the control of the processor (120), can control a communication connection between the wearable device (201) and at least one other electronic device (e.g., a smartphone, a smart watch) and / or a server (e.g., the server (108) of FIG. 1). The communication module (190) can support the establishment of a wireless communication channel with the other electronic device and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) can support short-range wireless communication such as UWB, Bluetooth, and low-power Bluetooth, but is not limited thereto.

[0068] The memory (130) may store programs, an operating system (OS), various applications, and / or input / output data for processing and controlling the processor (120) of the wearable device (201). The memory (130) may store executable instructions. For example, the memory (320) may store instructions that, when executed by the processor (120), cause the wearable device (201) to perform operations. For example, the instructions may be stored in a computer-readable recording medium.

[0069] The processor (120) can control the operation of the wearable device (201). The processor (120) can control other components included in the wearable device (201) (e.g., the first sensor (210), the second sensor (220), etc.) and perform various data processing or calculations. The processor (120) can include at least one of a controller, a microcontroller unit (MCU) sensor, or a sensor processor sensor hub. The operations of the processor (120) described below can be performed when executing instructions stored in the memory (130).

[0070] The processor (120) can determine the wearing / non-wearing status of the wearable device (201) based on sensing data or biometric data acquired from the first sensor (210). The processor (120) can acquire first sensing data from the first sensor (210) as the wearable device (201) is worn on the user's finger, and determine the wearing status of the wearable device (201) based on the acquired first sensing data.

[0071] The processor (120) can detect external electrodes (or contact electrodes) that a finger has contacted through the second sensor (210) based on the detection of wearing of the wearable device based on the first sensing data, and control the multiplexer (2240) to selectively activate only the external electrodes that the opposite finger has contacted among the contacted external electrodes. The processor (120) can obtain second sensing data from the activated external electrodes (or activation electrodes) among the external electrodes, and obtain the user's biometric information (e.g., ECG biometric information or BIA biometric information) based on the obtained second sensing data.

[0072] When measuring biometric information, the processor (120) can output guidance information according to the biometric measurement situation through the light-emitting unit (2110) (e.g., LED) of the first sensor (210).

[0073] According to one embodiment, a wearable device includes a circular housing including an opening, a first sensor including a light source disposed on a first surface of the housing, internal electrodes disposed on the first surface of the housing, and a second sensor including a plurality of external electrodes disposed in a segmented form on a second surface of the housing, a processor including processing circuitry, and a memory storing instructions executable by the processor, wherein the instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the wearable device to recognize that the wearable device is being worn based on the first sensor, selectively activate external electrodes in contact with a living body among the plurality of external electrodes based on a lead-off value measured by transmitting current to each external electrode through the internal electrode, and measure biometric information using external electrodes whose body impedance is measured to be greater than a threshold value among body impedances measured from external electrodes selectively activated among the external electrodes.

[0074] The above commands according to one embodiment may cause the wearable device to designate a bundle area between adjacent electrodes among the selectively activated external electrodes and measure the body impedance for each of the designated bundle areas.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the internal electrodes may include a first internal electrode and a second internal electrode connected to a sensor IC, and each of the plurality of external electrodes may be connected to the sensor IC through a multiplexer or switch circuit.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the processor may be characterized by controlling the multiplexer or the switch circuit to selectively connect one of the N external electrodes to a sensor IC.

[0077] A wearable device according to one embodiment may include a communication module including a communication circuit.

[0078] The above commands according to one embodiment may cause the wearable device to repeatedly perform a process of connecting one of the plurality of external electrodes to the sensor IC through the multiplexer or the switch circuit based on recognition of wearing of the wearable device, and then measuring a lead-off value for each electrode, and determine external electrodes whose lead-off value exceeds a threshold value as external electrodes in contact with a living body.

[0079] The above commands according to one embodiment may cause the wearable device to determine whether the lead-off value is measured for each external electrode based on receiving a biometric measurement request signal from an electronic device connected via the communication module, and to determine external electrodes whose lead-off value exceeds a threshold value as external electrodes in contact with a living body.

[0080] The commands according to one embodiment may cause the wearable device to measure an ECG (electrocardiogram) signal through one external electrode in contact with a living body, based on the lead-off value, if there is one external electrode in contact with a living body among the external electrodes, and to measure a BIA (bioelectrical impedance analysis) signal if there are at least two external electrodes in contact with a living body among the external electrodes.

[0081] The instructions according to one embodiment may cause the wearable device to transmit biometric data measured through the second sensor to the electronic device so as to display biometric analysis information on a display of the electronic device connected through the communication module.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the first sensor may include an optical sensor including a light source of a first color and a light source of a second color.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the commands may cause the wearable device to control the light emission state of a first color light source or a second color light source included in the first sensor when measuring the bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) signal or electrocardiogram signal, thereby outputting bioelectrical impedance analysis signal or electrocardiogram signal measurement state information.

[0084] FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating a connection structure of electrodes constituting a second sensor according to one embodiment.

[0085] Referring to FIG. 3, a wearable device (201) according to one embodiment may have an internal electrode (2210) disposed on a first surface of the housing, and an external electrode (2220) disposed on a second surface of the housing, as illustrated in FIG. 2A. Here, the external electrode (2220) may be formed in a structure in which a plurality of external electrodes are segmented to surround the entire second surface of the housing.

[0086] The second sensor (220) can be connected to a sensor IC (2230) and a plurality of external electrodes (2220) via a multiplexer (2240). The sensor IC (2230) can be connected to a processor (120), a multiplexer (2240), and internal electrodes (2210).

[0087] Multiplexer (2240) <301> As illustrated, it may include a first port connected to a sensor IC (2230) and n second ports connected to respective external electrodes. The multiplexer (2240) may selectively connect one of the n second ports to the first port according to a control signal (e.g., mux control signal) of the processor (120). The wearable device (201) may repeatedly perform a process of connecting a second port at a first position among the second ports to the first port, checking the lead-off value, connecting the second port at a second position to the first port, and checking the lead-off value in order to measure the lead-off value of each electrode.

[0088] For example, in the first order, the wearable device (201) can connect the external electrode at the first position to the sensor IC (2230) through the multiplexer (2240) and measure the lead-off value through the sensor IC (2230). If the measured lead-off value does not exceed the threshold, the wearable device (201) can classify the external electrode at the first position as an electrode that does not come into contact with the living body and connect the external electrode at the second position, which is the second order, to the sensor IC (2230) through the multiplexer (2240) and measure the lead-off value through the sensor IC (2230). <302> As illustrated, when a living body comes into contact with the external electrode at the second position, the wearable device (201) can classify the external electrode at the second position as an electrode (hereinafter, a contact electrode) that a living body (e.g., a finger) (310) has come into contact with, since the measured lead-off value is a threshold value. The wearable device (201) can recognize that a living body (310) has come into contact with the external electrode at the fifth position by repeating the above-described processes.

[0089] The above commands according to one embodiment may cause the wearable device to control the light emission state of a first color light source or a second color light source included in the first sensor when measuring the bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) signal or electrocardiogram signal, thereby outputting bioelectrical impedance analysis signal or electrocardiogram signal measurement state information.

[0090] FIG. 4 illustrates a diagram for explaining a method for measuring biometric information of a wearable device according to one embodiment. FIG. 5A illustrates a diagram for explaining an activated external electrode among external electrodes constituting a second sensor according to one embodiment, and FIG. 5B illustrates a diagram for explaining a closed-loop signal due to body impedance according to one embodiment. Each operation may be performed sequentially, but is not necessarily performed sequentially. For example, the order of each operation may be changed, and at least two operations may be performed in parallel. The functions or operations described in FIG. 4 may be understood as functions performed by the processor (120). The processor (120) may execute commands (e.g., instructions) stored in the memory (130) to implement a software module, and may control hardware (e.g., the second sensor (220)) associated with the function.

[0091] Referring to FIG. 4, the processor (120) of the wearable device (201) according to one embodiment may detect wearing of the wearable device (201) in operation 410. For example, the processor (120) may detect proximity of an object using sensor data acquired through the first sensor (210) or detect contact with a user's body (e.g., a finger) using biometric data to detect wearing of the wearable device (210).

[0092] In operation 415, the processor (120) may receive an ECG (electrocardiogram) or BIA (bioelectrical impedance analysis) measurement execution signal (or triggering signal). For example, the wearable device (201) may be configured to execute an ECG or BIA measurement function when an ECG or BIA measurement is requested from the outside. When an ECG or BIA measurement start signal is received from an electronic device (e.g., a smartphone or a smartwatch) wirelessly connected to the wearable device, the processor (120) may determine that an ECG or BIA measurement execution signal has been received.

[0093] For another example, the wearable device (201) may be configured to automatically execute (or start) an ECG or BIA measurement function depending on the wearing conditions of the wearable device (201). The processor (120) may determine that an ECG or BIA measurement execution signal has been received in response to detecting that the wearable device is being worn and measuring body impedance, as illustrated in FIG. 8.

[0094] In some embodiments, operation 415 may be omitted.

[0095] In operation 420, the processor (120) may execute (or activate) an ECG (electrocardiogram) or BIA (bioelectrical impedance analysis) measurement function based on an ECG or BIA measurement execution signal.

[0096] In operation 430, the processor (120) can activate a second sensor (e.g., the second sensor (220) of FIG. 2) based on the execution of an ECG or BIA measurement function, and measure a lead-off value for each electrode of the second sensor.

[0097] The wearable device (201) can detect external electrodes that are in contact with an object (e.g., a living body) by measuring a lead-off value (or lead-off impedance, first impedance) for each electrode. For example, the processor (120) can apply an offset voltage (e.g., a relatively low offset voltage compared to a living body measurement voltage) to an internal electrode used as a lead electrode in the second sensor (220) to cause leakage current to flow to each external electrode, and determine whether an object is in contact with each external electrode based on whether there is a reaction (e.g., a lead-off value) within a specified time.

[0098] For another example, the processor (120) can search for / confirm external electrodes that have been in contact with an object by demodulating the current signal received through the internal electrode used as the lead electrode by flowing a current of a different frequency to each external electrode.

[0099] Each external electrode is formed by a plurality of external electrodes (e.g., E1, E2, E3, E) to surround the entire second surface of the housing, as shown in Fig. 2a. n ) can be formed as a separated / segmented structure. For example, as shown in FIG. 5a, when the external electrodes are segmented into 22, the processor (120) can be formed from the first external electrode (e.g., E1) to the 22nd external electrode (E 22) can be repeated to sequentially apply an offset voltage to each external electrode and then check whether the lead-off value is measured from each external electrode. When an object (e.g., a living body) comes into contact with the external electrode, a signal or microcurrent from the object may be generated, which may result in a lead-off value / lead-off impedance. The processor (120) may determine that the object is in contact with the external electrode (or lead-on state) when the current is passed to the external electrode and the lead-off value / lead-off impedance is measured to be higher than a threshold value. The processor (120) may determine that the object is in contact with the external electrode (or lead-off state) when the current is passed to the external electrode and the lead-off value / lead-off impedance is not measured or is lower than a threshold value after a certain period of time has elapsed.

[0100] The processor (120) can recognize all external electrodes for which the lead-off value / lead-off impedance is measured as external electrodes (or contact electrodes) with which an object is in contact.

[0101] In operation 440, the processor (120) can determine whether one or more of the external electrodes or contact electrodes is in contact with an object (e.g., a living body).

[0102] In operation 450, if there is one or more external electrodes or contact electrodes that are in contact with an object among the external electrodes (e.g., in operation 440, yes), the processor (120) can selectively activate only the electrodes that are in contact with the object among the external electrodes and group the regions of adjacent electrodes.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) can determine the position of a contact electrode among the external electrodes that is in contact with an object (e.g., a living body) based on the arrangement positions of the external electrodes, and can selectively activate only the external electrode that is in contact with the object using at least one of a multiplexer or a switch circuit, and deactivate other external electrodes that are not in contact with the object.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may group adjacent electrodes among the activated external electrodes and designate them as a single group area (or biometric area). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 5A, the processor (120) may group adjacent electrodes among the activated external electrodes and designate them as a single group area. As a result of searching for external electrodes that an object has contacted, the processor (120) may designate a first region (510) and a third region (530) formed by grouping two adjacent external electrodes and a third region (530) formed by grouping three adjacent external electrodes as separate group areas (or biometric areas), and may measure body impedance for each group area.

[0105] The wearable device (201) of the present disclosure activates only all external electrodes that come into contact with a living body, and by grouping adjacent electrodes into areas, it can secure a wider area of ​​contact with the living body regardless of the contact location of the finger, thereby reducing contact resistance and thus being advantageous in ECG / BIA measurement.

[0106] In operation 445, if there is less than one external electrode with which the object is in contact among the external electrodes (e.g., no in operation 440), the processor (120) may recognize that there is no external electrode with which the object is in contact and output an error message for ECG / BIA measurement. The error message may be output through audio output (e.g., voice message, sound output) or LED lighting or blinking.

[0107] In operation 460, the processor (120) can check the body impedance by measuring the resistance between the activated electrode bundle (hereinafter, the bundle area of ​​the activated electrodes) and the lead electrode.

[0108] In the case of body impedance, the external electrodes in which a closed-loop signal is generated by both hands may be measured to have a high body impedance, and the body impedance due to the current flow near the hand wearing the wearable device may be measured to be low. As illustrated in Fig. 5b, the external electrodes activated by the contact of the hand wearing the wearable device (201) have a short current path (540), resulting in a low body impedance, whereas when the opposite finger is in contact with the external electrodes, the current path (550) is long, resulting in a relatively high body impedance being measured.

[0109] In operation 470, the processor (120) may determine whether the body impedance measured between the activated electrode bundle (or each bundle region) and the lead electrode is greater than or equal to a threshold value. For example, the body impedance may be a body impedance measured by integrating external electrodes designated as biocontact regions or electrodes designated as a single bundle region.

[0110] In operation 480, the processor (120) may recognize that the body impedance of the measured resistance is greater than or equal to a threshold value (e.g., in operation 470, yes), and initiate ECG or BIA measurement by recognizing that the body has been in contact with the opposite finger.

[0111] The processor (120) can measure ECG or BIA bio-information using activated electrodes having a body impedance lower than or equal to the measured resistance, and can turn off activated electrodes having a body impedance lower than or equal to the measured resistance.

[0112] In operation 490, the processor (120) may output a request message for grasping the opposite finger (e.g., a message such as "Please grasp the smart ring with your opposite finger") if the body impedance of the measured resistance is below a threshold value (e.g., no in operation 470). For example, the request message for grasping the opposite finger may be output by outputting an audio signal (e.g., a voice message, a specific sound output) or by lighting or blinking an LED.

[0113] FIG. 6 illustrates a diagram for explaining an indicator function for guiding a biometric measurement status of a wearable device according to one embodiment.

[0114] Referring to FIG. 6, a wearable device (201) according to one embodiment may support a function of outputting guidance information for a biometric gauge when performing biometric measurements using light-emitting elements mounted on the wearable device. For example, the wearable device (201) may utilize light-emitting elements included in a first sensor as measurement guidance indicators when performing biometric measurements.

[0115] As illustrated in the drawing in FIG. 6, a case in which three light-emitting elements are arranged at different locations in a wearable device (201) will be described as an example. For example, the light-emitting elements arranged at different locations may be referred to as a first light-emitting element (610), a second light-emitting element (620), and a third light-emitting element (630). This is only distinguished for the purpose of explanation, and is not limited thereto, and various design changes may be possible, such as using two light-emitting elements. Each light-emitting element may include a first color element (e.g., a red LED) and a second color element (e.g., a green LED), but may also include elements of other colors.

[0116] For example, when preparing for ECG / BIA measurement, the wearable device (201) may light up the first light-emitting element (610), the second light-emitting element (620), and the third light-emitting element (630) as first color elements (e.g., red LEDs), respectively. As the ECG / BIA measurement time elapses, the wearable device (201) may sequentially change the lighting of the first light-emitting element (610), the second light-emitting element (620), and the third light-emitting element (630) to the lighting of the second color elements. When the biometric measurement is 30% complete, the wearable device (201) may change the lighting of the first light-emitting element (610) from the first color (e.g., red) to the second color (e.g., green). When the biometric measurement is 60% complete, the wearable device (201) can change the lighting of not only the first light-emitting element (610) but also the second light-emitting element (620) from a first color (e.g., red) to a second color (e.g., green). Thereafter, when the biometric measurement is completed, the wearable device (201) can change the lighting of the third light-emitting element (630) from a first color (e.g., red) to a second color (e.g., green). The user can check the status of the biometric measurement according to the color change of the light-emitting element.

[0117] In addition to biometric guidance information, a wearable device (201) according to various embodiments may output notification information about the occurrence of a problem using a light-emitting element when a biometric error occurs.

[0118] FIG. 7 illustrates a diagram for explaining a linkage function between a wearable device and an external electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0119] Referring to FIG. 7, a wearable device (201) according to one embodiment may support a function of outputting biometric information based on biometric data measured by the wearable device (201) by linking with another electronic device (e.g., a smartphone or a smart watch) (701) including a display.

[0120] The wearable device (201) may be connected to another electronic device (701) via wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the wearable device (201) may communicate with the other electronic device to transmit a measurement status or measurement data related to biometric measurement to the other electronic device (701) based on the detection of simultaneous wearing of the wearable device (201) and the other electronic device (701), and request the other electronic device (701) to display information related to biometric measurement through a display. When the BCG / BIA measurement function is executed in the wearable device (201) or enters a BCG / BIA measurement mode, the other electronic device (701) connected to the wearable device (201) may automatically display at least one of BCG / BIA measurement start information, measurement status information (e.g., measurement in progress, measurement complete), and biometric characteristic analysis information based on the measurement data through the display.

[0121] FIG. 8 illustrates a diagram for explaining a biometric measurement method of a wearable device according to one embodiment. The operations may be performed sequentially, but are not necessarily performed sequentially. For example, the order of the operations may be changed, and at least two operations may be performed in parallel. The functions or operations described in FIG. 8 may be understood as functions performed by the processor (120). The processor (120) may execute commands (e.g., instructions) stored in the memory (130) to implement a software module, and may control hardware (e.g., a second sensor (220)) associated with the function.

[0122] Referring to FIG. 8, the processor (120) of a wearable device (201) according to one embodiment may detect wearing of the wearable device in operation 810. For example, the processor (120) may detect proximity of an object using sensor data acquired through the first sensor (210) or detect contact of an object (e.g., a finger) using biometric data to detect wearing of the wearable device.

[0123] In operation 820, the processor (120) can activate the second sensor (220) based on the detection of wearing of the wearable device to measure the lead-off value for each electrode.

[0124] The processor (120) can detect whether any of the external electrodes (or contact electrodes) are in contact with an object (e.g., a living body) by measuring the lead-off value (or lead-off impedance) for each electrode. For example, the processor (120) can apply an offset voltage (e.g., a voltage that is relatively low compared to the living body measurement voltage) to the internal electrode used as the lead electrode in the second sensor (220) to transmit a leakage current to each external electrode, and then determine whether an object is in contact with each external electrode based on whether the lead-off value is measured within a specified time.

[0125] Although not shown in the drawing, the processor (120) may selectively activate only the external electrodes that the object is in contact with, as described in FIG. 4, and may also bundle adjacent electrodes among the activated external electrodes and designate them as a bundled area. The processor (120) may measure the body impedance for the contact electrodes designated as the bundled area.

[0126] In operation 830, the processor (120) can measure the body impedance of the external electrodes (or the bundled area of ​​the activated contact electrodes) that are in contact with an object (e.g., a living body) among the external electrodes, and determine whether there is an external electrode among the external electrodes whose body impedance is greater than a threshold value.

[0127] In operation 840, if a contact electrode having a body impedance greater than a threshold value is detected, the processor (120) may determine that the opposite finger is in contact with the external electrode and start automatic ECG / BIA measurement.

[0128] In operation 850, the processor (120) can determine whether the points contacted by the opposite finger are one point or at least two points.

[0129] In operation 860, the processor (120) may start ECG measurement if there is one contact electrode whose body impedance is below a threshold value. For example, when measuring ECG, the internal electrode of the second sensor may be used as a lead electrode and an ECG negative input electrode.

[0130] In operation 870, the processor (120) may initiate BIA measurement if there are at least two contact electrode points where the body impedance is below a threshold value. During BIA measurement, the internal electrode of the second sensor may be used as a current injection channel and a voltage measurement channel.

[0131] A method for measuring biometric information of a wearable device according to one embodiment may include an operation of recognizing wearing of the wearable device based on a first sensor. The method according to one embodiment may include an operation of selectively activating external electrodes in contact with a living body among a plurality of external electrodes based on a lead-off value for each electrode measured through a second sensor including an internal electrode and N external electrodes. The method according to one embodiment may include an operation of measuring biometric information using external electrodes whose body impedance is measured to be greater than a threshold value among body impedances measured from external electrodes selectively activated among the external electrodes. The external electrodes according to one embodiment may be characterized in that they are each formed in a segmented structure.

[0132] According to one embodiment, the operation of selectively activating external electrodes in contact with a living body among the plurality of external electrodes may further include an operation of designating a bundle area between adjacent electrodes among the selectively activated external electrodes and measuring the body impedance for each of the designated bundle areas.

[0133] An operation of measuring bio-information using the external electrodes according to one embodiment may be characterized by measuring an electrocardiogram signal through one external electrode in contact with the bio-material, based on a lead-off value for each electrode, when one of the external electrodes is in contact with the bio-material.

[0134] An operation of measuring bio-information using the external electrodes according to one embodiment may be characterized by measuring a BIA (bioelectrical impedance analysis) signal when at least two of the external electrodes are in contact with a living body based on the lead-off value of each electrode.

[0135] According to one embodiment, the operation of selectively activating external electrodes in contact with a living body among the plurality of external electrodes may further include an operation of repeatedly performing a process of connecting the plurality of external electrodes to a sensor IC one by one through a multiplexer or a switch circuit and then measuring a lead-off value for each electrode, and an operation of determining external electrodes in which the lead-off value for each electrode exceeds a threshold value as external electrodes in contact with a living body.

[0136] The operation of selectively activating external electrodes in contact with a living body among the plurality of external electrodes according to one embodiment may further include an operation of determining whether a lead-off value for each external electrode is measured based on a biometric measurement request signal being received from an electronic device connected through a communication module, and determining external electrodes in which the lead-off value for each electrode exceeds a threshold value as external electrodes in contact with a living body.

[0137] According to one embodiment, the operation of measuring bio-information using external electrodes in which the body impedance is measured to be less than or equal to a threshold value may further include an operation of transmitting the measured bio-information to an electronic device connected through the communication module.

[0138] The embodiments of this document and the terminology used herein 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 component (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.

[0139] The term "module" used in the 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).

[0140] One embodiment 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.

[0141] According to one embodiment, the method according to one embodiment 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.

[0142] According to one embodiment, 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 arranged in other components. According to one embodiment, 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 this 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 one embodiment, 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.

Claims

1. In wearable devices, A circular housing including an opening; A first sensor disposed on a first surface of the housing and including a light source; A second sensor having internal electrodes arranged on a first surface of the housing and a plurality of external electrodes arranged in a segmented form on a second surface of the housing; A processor comprising processing circuitry; A memory that stores instructions executable by the processor, The above instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the wearable device to: Recognize the wearing of a wearable device based on the first sensor above, By transmitting current to each external electrode through the internal electrode, the external electrodes in contact with the living body are selectively activated among the plurality of external electrodes based on the lead-off value for each electrode measured, A wearable device that measures biometric information by using external electrodes whose body impedance is measured above a threshold value among the external electrodes that are selectively activated among the above external electrodes.

2. In paragraph 1, The above instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the wearable device to: A wearable device that designates a bundle area between adjacent electrodes among the optionally activated external electrodes and measures the body impedance for each designated bundle area.

3. In paragraph 1, The wearable device includes a communication module including a communication circuit, The above internal electrodes are connected to the sensor IC as the first internal electrode and the second internal electrode, and the plurality of external electrodes are each connected to the sensor IC through a multiplexer or switch circuit. A wearable device in which the processor controls the multiplexer or switch circuit to selectively connect the plurality of external electrodes to the sensor IC.

4. In paragraph 3, The above instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the wearable device to: Based on the recognition of wearing of the wearable device, the process of connecting the plurality of external electrodes to the sensor IC one by one through the multiplexer or the switch circuit and then measuring the lead-off value for each electrode is repeatedly performed, A wearable device that determines external electrodes whose lead-off value exceeds a threshold value as external electrodes in contact with a living body.

5. In paragraph 3, The above instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the wearable device to: Connected to an electronic device through the above communication module, Determine whether the lead-off value is measured for each external electrode based on receiving a biometric measurement request signal from the connected electronic device; A wearable device that determines external electrodes whose lead-off value exceeds a threshold value as external electrodes in contact with a living body.

6. In paragraph 4, The above instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the wearable device to: A wearable device that measures an ECG (electrocardiogram) signal through one external electrode in contact with a living body based on the lead-off value, and measures a BIA (bioelectrical impedance analysis) signal through one external electrode in contact with a living body when at least two external electrodes in contact with a living body are present among the external electrodes.

7. In paragraph 4, The above instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the wearable device to: A wearable device that transmits biometric data measured through the second sensor to the electronic device so as to display biometric analysis information on the display of the electronic device connected through the communication module.

8. In paragraph 7, The first sensor includes an optical sensor including a light source of a first color and a light source of a second color, The above instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the wearable device to: A wearable device that controls the light emission status of a first color light source or a second color light source included in the first sensor when measuring the BIA (bioelectrical impedance analysis) signal or electrocardiogram signal to output information on the measurement status of the bioelectrical impedance analysis signal or electrocardiogram signal.

9. In a method for measuring biometric information of a wearable device, An action to recognize wearing of a wearable device based on a first sensor; An operation of selectively activating external electrodes in contact with a living body among the plurality of external electrodes based on a lead-off value per electrode measured through a second sensor including an internal electrode and a plurality of external electrodes; and An operation of measuring bio-information using external electrodes whose body impedance is measured above a threshold value among body impedances measured from external electrodes that are selectively activated among the external electrodes is included. The method is characterized in that the above external electrodes are each formed in a segmented structure.

10. In paragraph 9, The operation of selectively activating external electrodes in contact with a living body among the above-mentioned plurality of external electrodes is as follows: A method further comprising: designating a bundle area between adjacent electrodes among the optionally activated external electrodes, and measuring the body impedance for each of the designated bundle areas.

11. In paragraph 9, The operation of measuring bio-information using the above external electrodes is as follows: An operation of measuring an electrocardiogram signal through one external electrode in contact with a living body, based on the lead-off value for each electrode; and A method further comprising an operation of measuring a BIA (bioelectrical impedance analysis) signal when at least two of the external electrodes are in contact with a living body based on the lead-off value for each electrode.

12. In paragraph 9, The operation of selectively activating external electrodes in contact with a living body among the above-mentioned plurality of external electrodes is as follows: A method further comprising an operation of repeatedly performing a process of connecting the plurality of external electrodes to a sensor IC one by one through a multiplexer or switch circuit and measuring a lead-off value for each electrode, and an operation of determining external electrodes whose lead-off value exceeds a threshold value as external electrodes in contact with a living body.

13. In paragraph 9, The operation of selectively activating external electrodes in contact with a living body among the above-mentioned plurality of external electrodes is as follows: A method further comprising: determining whether a lead-off value is measured for each external electrode based on receiving a biometric measurement request signal from an electronic device connected through a communication module, and determining external electrodes whose lead-off value exceeds a threshold value as external electrodes in contact with a living body.

14. In paragraph 9, The operation of measuring bio-information using external electrodes whose body impedance is measured above the threshold value is A method further comprising the action of transmitting the measured biometric information to an electronic device connected through a communication module.

15. In paragraph 9, The operation of measuring bio-information using external electrodes whose body impedance is measured below the threshold value is A method further comprising an operation of controlling the light emission state of a first color light source or a second color light source included in the first sensor to output bioelectrical impedance analysis signal or electrocardiogram signal measurement status information.

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