Charger for portable device with ring

Abstract

Disclosed is an assembly, comprising: ● a portable device (100) comprising: a housing (110), a battery, a ring (120), the ring (120) comprising a first electrode (EC1) and a second electrode (EC2) for charging the battery, ● a charger (800) comprising a first electrical connector (1130) and a second electrical connector (1140) that are configured to interact with the first electrode (EC1) and the second electrode (EC2), respectively. The first electrical connector (1130) is configured so as to be able to interact with the first electrode (EC1) along an engagement axis (T) and the second electrical connector (1140) is configured so as to be able to interact with the second electrode (EC2) along the same engagement axis (T).

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Title of the invention: Charger for portable device with crown

[0003] technical field

[0004] [1] The present invention relates to the field of wearable devices, in particular smartwatches. In particular, the present invention relates to the field of devices comprising at least one crown having, in particular, a role as a user interface between the device and the user.

[0005] [2] The present invention also relates to an electric charger configured to cooperate with such a portable device in order to recharge the device's battery.

[0006] Previous technique

[0007] [3] A smartwatch typically includes a battery that powers the various components of the device with electrical energy. The battery is configured to convert stored chemical energy into electricity. The battery may be a rechargeable battery. By supplying energy to the rechargeable battery, the electrochemical reaction is reversed to recharge the chemical energy stored in the battery.

[0008] [4] The energy used to charge rechargeable batteries usually comes from an electric charger using alternating current. Different charging mechanisms are known.

[0009] [5] For example, the watch can be placed on a charger, with the back of the watch and the charger having connecting pins that cooperate with each other. The watch can be held in position on the charger by magnets to ensure good mechanical and electrical contact. However, these magnets can interfere with the electronics inside the watch and take up space within the watch's internal volume.

[0010] [6] Another solution is to position the connection pins on the side of the case and rotate the watch onto the charger to exert greater pressure. However, the watch's balance is unstable and electrical contact can easily be lost.

[0011] [7] In another variant, the charger may take the form of a clip consisting of two prongs and a spring between them. The clip requires the user to open the prongs to allow them to engage with the watch's pins, making the use of such a charger cumbersome.

[0012] [8] Document EP4277077 describes a charger configured to recharge a watch. The charger includes two connectors configured to make contact with the crown and the case of the watch, respectively.

[0013] [9] Document KR10-2017-0033162 describes a charger that includes a guide for receiving a watch crown. This charger has the disadvantage of being specific to a specific watch shape that can be received in the watch guide.

[0014]

[0010] Document US9557716B1 describes a watch comprising concentric conductors configured to interface with an adapter in order to transfer at least one digital signal, one analog signal or one power supply.

[0015]

[0011] It is also known to provide an inductive charger, for example for charging a

[0016] "Apple Watch" (registered trademark). Such a charger uses electromagnetic induction to provide power to wireless wearable devices. However, such a charger can result in an unstable connection between the device and the charger and may experience electromagnetic interference or heat generation.

[0017] Description of the invention

[0018]

[0012] The present description aims to propose a watch and an associated charger that does not present at least one of the aforementioned difficulties.

[0019]

[0013] For this purpose, the present description relates to an assembly comprising:

[0020] - a portable device comprising: a casing; a rechargeable battery configured to supply power to the portable device, the battery being positioned in the casing; a rotating and / or translational ring relative to the casing along a ring axis, and the ring comprising a first electrode and a second electrode for charging the battery,

[0021] - a charger comprising a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector configured to cooperate respectively with the first electrode and the second electrode, in which the first electrical connector is configured to be able to cooperate with the first electrode along an axis of engagement and the second electrical connector is configured to be able to cooperate with the second electrode along the same axis of engagement.

[0022]

[0014] Indeed, the charger as described herein is easy to use, operating directly with the watch's crown. The charger and crown engage easily and intuitively along the same axis with a translational movement in a single direction. This single-direction engagement also makes the charger compact. Furthermore, the charger is compatible with watches of varying case shapes, making it more universal. Finally, the watch can be charged by the charger without being removed from the wrist, allowing for continuous monitoring of the user's physiological data when the watch is a smartwatch.

[0023]

[0015] In one embodiment, the crown is configured to supply power to the portable device.

[0024]

[0016] In one embodiment, the crown comprises a lateral face and a peripheral face extending from a periphery of the lateral face, in which the first electrode and the second electrode are arranged on the lateral face.

[0025]

[0017] In one embodiment, the assembly is configured to move from a separate configuration in which the charger is away from the device's crown, to a charging configuration in which the charger cooperates with the crown along the engagement axis to electrically recharge the device's battery.

[0026]

[0018] In one embodiment, the engagement axis is parallel to the axis of the crown.

[0027]

[0019] In one embodiment, the device comprises a single crown.

[0028]

[0020] In one embodiment, the crown comprises a central portion and an annular portion arranged around the central portion, the first electrode being arranged on the central portion and the second electrode on the annular portion.

[0029]

[0021] In one embodiment, the two portions are electrically isolated, for example by a joint arranged between the two portions.

[0030]

[0022] In one embodiment, the crown comprises a head disposed outside the case and a stem extending from the head through the case.

[0031]

[0023] In one embodiment, the stem is integral with a stem head, which extends through the head and opens at the level of the head.

[0032]

[0024] In one embodiment, the rod head defines an end fixed to the rod in the form of a stop at the level of the head.

[0033]

[0025] In one embodiment, the rod head has a transverse dimension, in particular a diameter, greater than the diameter of the rod.

[0034]

[0026] In one embodiment, the head comprises a complementary head body, the stem head and the complementary head body being joined together.

[0035]

[0027] In one embodiment, the central portion is formed by the stem head.

[0036]

[0028] In one embodiment, the complementary head body includes the annular portion, and advantageously the joint.

[0037]

[0029] In one embodiment, the two electrodes open onto a connection interface, the connection interface being symmetrical of revolution with respect to the axis of the ring.

[0038]

[0030] In one embodiment, the connection interface is flat or convex, in particular slightly domed.

[0039]

[0031] In one embodiment, the peripheral face is notched.

[0040]

[0032] In one embodiment, the side face forms the connection interface.

[0041]

[0033] In one embodiment, the peripheral face is formed by the annular portion and the lateral face is formed by the central portion and the annular portion.

[0042]

[0034] In one embodiment, the central portion is recessed relative to the annular portion.

[0043]

[0035] In one embodiment, the central portion forms a cavity relative to the annular portion.

[0044]

[0036] In one embodiment, at least one of the electrodes, in particular both, is in the form of a metallic body.

[0045]

[0037] In one embodiment, at least one of the electrodes, in particular both, is in the form of a metallic coating.

[0046]

[0038] In one embodiment, the crown is configured to move from a resting configuration in which the crown is away from the case to a pressed configuration in which the crown is pressed towards the case.

[0047]

[0039] In one embodiment, the crown is connected to the battery in the resting configuration.

[0048]

[0040] In one embodiment, the crown includes a spring to constrain the crown in the rest configuration.

[0049]

[0041] In one embodiment, the first electrode is connected to the battery via the central portion.

[0050]

[0042] In one embodiment, the second electrode is connected to the battery via the annular portion, the spring and the housing.

[0051]

[0043] In one embodiment, the two electrical connectors lead to a charging interface, the charging interface being symmetrical of revolution about the engagement axis.

[0052]

[0044] In one embodiment, the load interface is a load face.

[0053]

[0045] In one embodiment, the second connector is arranged annularly around the first connector on the charging interface.

[0054]

[0046] In one embodiment, the first connector has a disk shape on the load interface (in a plane transverse to the engagement axis).

[0055]

[0047] In one embodiment, the second connector has an annular shape on the charging interface.

[0056]

[0048] In one embodiment, the first connector is a load pin.

[0057]

[0049] In one embodiment, the two connectors are electrically isolated.

[0058]

[0050] In one embodiment, a joint is arranged between the two connectors.

[0059]

[0051] In one embodiment, at least one of the electrical connectors is movable in translation, for example along the engagement axis.

[0060]

[0052] In one embodiment, the first connector is movable in translation.

[0061]

[0053] In one embodiment, the charger includes a spring linked to the first connector.

[0062]

[0054] In one embodiment, the first connector protrudes relative to the second connector in the separate configuration of the charger.

[0063]

[0055] In one embodiment, the charger includes a charging head housing the two electrical connectors, the charging head extending in line with the crown along the axis of the crown when charging the battery.

[0064]

[0056] In one embodiment, the charging head has a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0065]

[0057] In one embodiment, the transverse dimension of the load head is less than twice the diameter of the ring, in particular less than 1.5 times the diameter of the ring, in particular substantially equal to the diameter of the ring.

[0066]

[0058] In one embodiment, the charger includes an electrical connection cable extending from the charging head in a direction orthogonal to the engagement axis.

[0067]

[0059] In one embodiment, the charger includes an electrical connection cable extending from the charging head in a direction parallel to the engagement axis.

[0068]

[0060] In one embodiment, at least one magnet is arranged in the crown and / or in the charger.

[0069]

[0061] In one embodiment, the magnet is arranged in the crown.

[0070]

[0062] In one embodiment, the magnet or each magnet is configured to constrain the assembly in the load configuration.

[0071]

[0063] In one embodiment, each electrical connector is configured to cooperate with the associated electrode via a magnetic link.

[0072]

[0064] In one embodiment, the crown and the device are held in contact by a magnetic link

[0073]

[0065] In one embodiment, the charger includes a mechanical attachment for fixing the crown to the charger, the mechanical attachment including for example a movable part on the charger adapted to cooperate with the crown to keep the crown fixed to the charger.

[0074]

[0066] In one embodiment, the device is a watch, the watch being for example a hybrid watch with mechanical hands.

[0075]

[0067] The present invention also relates to a charging method implemented by an assembly as defined above, the method comprising the following successive steps:

[0076] - transition from a separate configuration in which the charger is away from the device's crown, to a charging configuration in which the charger cooperates with the crown along the engagement axis,

[0077] - charging the device's rechargeable battery using the charger.

[0078]

[0068] The present invention also relates to an assembly comprising:

[0079] - a portable device comprising: a rechargeable battery configured to supply power to the portable device; a housing; and a rotating and / or translational ring relative to the housing along a ring axis, the ring comprising a first electrode and a second electrode;

[0080] - a charger comprising a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector configured to cooperate respectively with the first electrode and the second electrode, in which the ring comprises a lateral face and a peripheral face extending from a periphery of the lateral face, in which the first electrode and the second electrode are arranged on the lateral face.

[0081]

[0069] The present invention also relates to a charger for a portable device, the portable device comprising: a rechargeable battery configured to supply energy to the portable device; a housing; and a rotating and / or translationally movable ring relative to the housing, the ring comprising two electrodes electrically connected to the rechargeable battery, including a first electrode and a second electrode; the charger comprising two electrical connectors, including a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector; the first electrical connector being configured to cooperate with the first electrode along an axis of engagement, the second electrical connector being configured to cooperate with the second electrode along the same axis of engagement.

[0082]

[0070] The present invention also relates to a portable device comprising: a rechargeable battery configured to supply power to the portable device; a housing; and a rotating and / or translationally movable ring relative to the housing, the ring comprising two electrodes electrically connected to the rechargeable battery, including a first electrode and a second electrode; the portable device being configured to cooperate with a charger comprising two electrical connectors, including a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector; the first electrical electrode being configured to cooperate with the first connector along an axis of engagement, the second electrode being configured to cooperate with the second connector along the same axis of engagement. Brief description of the drawings

[0083]

[0071] Other features, details and advantages will become apparent upon reading the detailed description below, and upon analysis of the accompanying drawings, on which:

[0084]

[0072] - [Fig. 1] Figure 1 shows a top view (along a Z direction) of a portable device according to one embodiment.

[0085]

[0073] - [Fig. 2] Figure 2 shows a bottom view (along a Z direction) of the portable device according to one embodiment.

[0086]

[0074] - [Fig. 3] Figure 3 shows a view from below (along a Z direction) of a portable device according to another embodiment.

[0087]

[0075] - [Fig. 4] Figure 4 shows a side view (along an X direction) of the portable device of Figure 3.

[0088]

[0076] - [Fig. 5] Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view along the XZ plane of the portable device of Figure 3.

[0089]

[0077] - [Fig. 6] Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view of a ring of the device according to one embodiment.

[0090]

[0078] - [Fig. 7] Figure 7 shows a diagram of the device with some components, including electronic ones.

[0091]

[0079] - [Fig. 8] Figure 8 shows a schematic view of an assembly in load configuration according to one embodiment.

[0092]

[0080] - [Fig. 9] Figure 9 shows a three-dimensional view of the battery.

[0093]

[0081] - [Fig. 10] Figure 10 shows a three-dimensional view of the crown and the flexible printed circuit of the portable device according to one embodiment.

[0094]

[0082] - [Fig. 11] Figure 11 shows a partial cross-sectional view of an assembly according to an embodiment comprising a device shown in part and a charger shown in part.

[0095]

[0083] - [Fig. 12] Figure 12 shows a three-dimensional view of a charger charging head according to one embodiment.

[0096]

[0084] - [Fig. 13] Figure 13 shows a side view of an assembly comprising a charger according to another embodiment.

[0097]

[0085] - [Fig. 14] Figure 14 (a), (b), (c) shows three other overall embodiments according to the description.

[0098] Detailed description of the implementation methods

[0099]

[0086] A wearable device 100 (also referred to hereafter as "device 100") is shown in Figure 1. Device 100 is configured to be worn on a user's wrist. In one embodiment, the device is a watch. The watch may include a strap. However, in the context of this description, the term watch does not necessarily include the strap, which is generally manufactured elsewhere and may be assembled at retail outlets. Wearable device 100 may also be an activity tracker.

[0100]

[0087] In particular, Figures 1 to 5 illustrate a hybrid electronic watch 100, with a dial, mechanical hands, and optionally a display integrated into the dial. A standard coordinate system (XYZ) is shown in these figures.

[0101]

[0088] In an alternative embodiment not shown, the watch may be a non-hybrid watch without mechanical hands but with a display screen.

[0089] The device 100 may comprise a case 110 and a case back 210 illustrated in Figure 2.

[0102]

[0090] When the device 100 is a watch, the case 110 can also be called the case

[0103] (The English word "case"). The case 110 forms an enclosure that defines an internal volume suitable for housing various components, such as electronic components, as will be explained in more detail below. The case 110 protects the internal volume from, among other things, dust, water, humidity, and shocks. The case 110 may include a side panel 112, which is generally visible when the watch 100 is worn on the wrist. The case 110 may include lugs 114 for attaching a strap (not shown in the figures). In particular, the case 110 may include two pairs of lugs 114, on either side of the case 110. The case 110 may comprise a plurality of parts.

[0104]

[0091] The device 100 further includes a crown 120 protruding through the case 110. As can be seen in Figures 1 to 3, the crown protrudes orthogonally to the Z axis, along an X axis. The crown 120 will be described in more detail later.

[0105]

[0092] The case back 210 is the rear face of the device 100. The case back 210 is configured to be at least partially in contact with the skin of the user's wrist. In one embodiment, the case back 210 may include one or more physiological sensors, such as an optical or electrocardiogram sensor. For example, the case back may include a ring element 212. The ring element 212 may surround at least one physiological sensor 214. The physiological sensor(s) 214 will be described in more detail later.

[0106]

[0093] In an embodiment illustrated in Figure 2, the housing 110 and the back of the housing

[0107] 210 are two separate parts. In this embodiment, the housing 110 and the base 210 can be separated by a joint 216.

[0108]

[0094] In a variant illustrated in Figure 3, the housing 110 and the base 210 are fixed to each other. In this embodiment, the housing 110 and the base 210 constitute a single mechanical part.

[0109]

[0095] The device 100 may also include a glass 130 (usually called a "glass" or "crystal" in watchmaking), typically mounted on the case 110, so that the glass 130 is fixed. The glass 130 may include a protective glass, typically transparent, and may be made of glass, ceramic, plastic, or any other transparent material. The outline of the glass 130 is typically circular.

[0110]

[0096] In the case of a hybrid watch, beneath the glass 130, the device 100 further comprises a dial 132 with physical hands 134. The dial 132 may also accommodate a display 136 (for example, with an opening in the dial that allows a display positioned just below the dial to be visible), which occupies, for example, a small space below or within the dial 132. The watch 100 may also comprise an additional dial 138 to display, for example, the daily number of steps taken by the user or another indicator of the amount of physical activity. The glass 130 protects these parts and allows them to be seen through it.

[0097] In the case of an Apple Watch™ type “smartwatch”, not shown in the figures, under the glass 130, the device 100 includes a digital screen which occupies a width close to the width of the device 100. In one embodiment, the screen can display hands.The 130 glass is then the protective glass for the screen.

[0111]

[0098] The device 100 may also include a bezel 140, mounted on the housing 110. The bezel 140 is positioned around the lens 130 (radially external to the lens around the Z direction). In the illustrated embodiments, the bezel 140 is fixed relative to the housing 110. In an embodiment not shown, the bezel 140 may be rotatably mounted relative to the housing 110.

[0112]

[0099] The device 100 further comprises a rechargeable battery 580 (visible in Figure 5) configured to supply energy to the device 100, and in particular to the electronic components of the device 100. The rechargeable battery 580 is configured to store chemical energy and to convert this chemical energy into electrical energy. The battery 580 is configured to be recharged multiple times, i.e., by reversing the electrochemical reaction to recharge the chemical energy stored in the battery 580. To this end, the device 100 is configured to cooperate with an electrical charger 800, shown in Figures 11 to 13 and as described below.

[0113] CROWN

[0114]

[0100] In the illustrated embodiments, the device 100 comprises a single ring 120. In an alternative not shown, the device 100 may comprise a plurality of rings 120.

[0115]

[0101] The crown 120 notably serves as a user interface between the device 100 and the user. In particular, the crown 120 can be used by the user to set the time or date, to navigate the menu displayed on the screen 136, and / or to start recording an activity, etc. The crown 120 can be a push button and / or a rotary wheel. In the illustrated embodiment, the crown 120 is a push button and a rotary wheel, i.e., the crown 120 can be rotated about a crown axis A, parallel to the X-axis, and can be moved along the crown axis A.

[0116]

[0102] The 120 ring is further configured to allow charging of the rechargeable battery 580, by interfacing with the electric charger 800. The 120 ring defines an ICO connection interface for connection with the electric charger 800.

[0117]

[0103] With reference to figure 5, the crown 120 protrudes through the case 110 along the axis of the crown A, in particular through the side wall 112 of the case 110. For this purpose, the case 110 includes an opening 510 through which the crown 120 extends. The opening 510 may generally have a cylindrical shape.

[0118]

[0104] When the crown 120 is a push button, the crown 120 is configured to move from a pressed configuration in which the head of the crown 120 is pushed towards the case 110, to a rest configuration in which the head of the crown 120 is further away from the case 110.

[0119]

[0105] The crown 120 comprises a head 520 disposed outside the housing 110 and a stem 530 extending from the head 520 through the housing 110. As seen in Figures 5 and 6, the stem 530 may be integral with a stem head 600, which extends through the head 520 and terminates at the head 520. The stem head 600 forms part of the crown head 520. The stem head 600 may define an end integral with the stem 530 in the form of a stop at the head 520. The stem head 600 may have a transverse dimension, in particular a diameter, greater than the diameter of the stem 530. The user interacts with the crown 120 by touching the head 520. In particular, the stem 530 is configured to slide and / or turn inside the opening 510. In particular, the rod 530 can be mounted against the stop in the head 520.The 530 rod and the 600 rod head can be one and the same piece, as will be explained later, but can also be two different pieces.

[0120]

[0106] The head 520 also includes a complementary head body 602. The stem head 600 and the complementary head body 602 are typically joined together. More precisely, it is the head 520 that defines the ICO connection interface.

[0121]

[0107] With reference to figures 4 to 6, the head 530 of the crown 120 comprises a central portion 410 and an annular portion 420 arranged around the central portion 410. As will be explained in more detail later, the central portion 410 and the annular portion 420 form two electrodes for charging the battery of the device 100.

[0122]

[0108] The central portion 410 and the annular portion 420 are electrically insulated from each other. For this purpose, the crown 120 (more precisely the head 520, and even the complementary head body 602) may include a seal 430 disposed between the central portion 410 (the stem head 600) and the annular portion 420. The seal 430 is made of an electrically insulating material, for example a thermoplastic polyester elastomer.

[0123]

[0109] The central portion 410 is formed in particular by the rod head 600. Advantageously, the central portion 410 is formed solely by the rod head 600. The central portion 410 extends mainly along the axis of the crown A.

[0124]

[0110] The complementary head body 602 comprises the annular portion 420, and advantageously the seal 430. The annular portion 420 extends, at the head 520, around the central portion 410 and thus around the rod head 600. The annular portion 420 has a shape of revolution about the axis of the crown A. The annular portion 420 has substantially a ring shape. The annular portion 420 may include a receiving space 605 for the rod head 600. The receiving space 605 is particularly suitable for receiving the seal 430 and the rod head 600.

[0125]

[0111] As will be explained in more detail below, the ring 120 is configured to be electrically conductive. In particular, the central portion 410 and the annular portion 420 are electrically conductive.

[0126]

[0112] In one embodiment, at least one of the portions, in particular the two portions 410 and 420, is / are in the form of a metallic body. Alternatively or in addition, at least one of the portions, in particular the two portions 410 and 420, comprises a metallic coating.

[0113] The central portion 410 and the annular portion 420 (and optionally the joint 430) are mechanically fixed to each other. Therefore, there is no freedom of movement of one portion relative to the other, whether in translation or rotation.

[0127]

[0114] With reference to figure 6, the crown 120 (more precisely the head 520) comprises a lateral face 610 and a peripheral face 620 extending from a periphery of the lateral face 610.

[0128]

[0115] The lateral face 610 is configured to receive a translational force from the user, in particular via his finger, along the axis of the crown A. The central portion 410 and the annular portion 420 open in particular onto the lateral face 610.

[0129]

[0116] The peripheral face 620 is configured to receive a rotational force from the user, in particular via their finger. The peripheral face 620 is closed at its end by the lateral face 610.

[0130]

[0117] In one embodiment, the lateral face 610 is symmetrical of revolution, in particular with respect to the axis of the ring A. In particular, the lateral face 610 has a disk shape.

[0131]

[0118] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the lateral face 610 can be flat. The central portion 410 then opens at the same level as the annular portion 420 along the axis of the crown A. In an alternative, not shown, the central portion 410 is recessed relative to the annular portion 420 along the axis of the crown A. In other words, the central portion 410 forms a cavity relative to the annular portion 420. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 14(a), the lateral face can be convex, in particular slightly domed. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 14(c), the lateral face 610 can have another shape, for example, a wavy shape. The lateral face 610 extends primarily orthogonally to the axis of the crown A. In other words, the two ends of the lateral face along a given axis form an axis orthogonal to the axis of the crown A.

[0132]

[0119] As shown in Figure 6, the peripheral face 620 may have a cylindrical shape extending along the axis of the ring A. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 14, the peripheral face may have a frustoconical or truncated dome shape, for example.

[0133]

[0120] The peripheral face 620 can be notched to allow for better grip with the user's finger. Alternatively or in addition, the peripheral face 620 can have a roughened surface. The peripheral face 620 is formed by the annular portion 420. The lateral face 610 and the peripheral face 620 define an internal volume 630 of the head 520 of the crown 120.

[0134]

[0121] With reference to Figures 4 to 6, the ring 120 comprises a first electrode EC1 and a second electrode EC2. An electrode is defined as a conductive part capable of receiving or transmitting an electric current, an electric potential, or an electric voltage. The part may be made of a conductive material or comprise a conductive coating. "Conductor" is defined as "electrically conductive." In this case, the first electrode EC1 and the second electrode EC2 are charging electrodes, capable of connecting a battery to a charger.

[0122] The first electrode EC1 may be formed on the central portion 410 and the second electrode EC2 may be formed on the annular portion 420.

[0135]

[0123] The two electrodes EC1, EC2 lead to the ICO connection interface.

[0136]

[0124] With reference to figures 5, 14 (a) and 14 (c), the ICO connection interface is formed by the lateral face 610. In other words, the first electrode EC1 and the second electrode EC2 are arranged on the lateral face 610.

[0137]

[0125] Alternatively, as shown in Figure 14 (b), the ICO connection interface is formed by the lateral face 610 and the peripheral face 620. In particular, the first electrode EC1 is disposed on the lateral face 610 and the second electrode EC2 is disposed on the peripheral face 620.

[0138]

[0126] In one embodiment, the ICO connection interface is rotationally symmetrical, particularly with respect to the axis of the ring A. As shown in Figure 4, the ICO connection interface may, in particular, have a disk shape. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 14, the ICO connection interface may have a dome shape, a truncated cone shape, etc.

[0139]

[0127] In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 5, the ICO connection interface is substantially flat and extends orthogonally to the axis of the ring A. In a variant illustrated for example in Figure 14, the ICO connection interface is convex, for example slightly domed.

[0140]

[0128] The crown 120 may also include a spring 660 disposed around the stem 530 and located between the head 520 and the housing 110. The crown 120 is configured to move axially along the axis of the crown A within the opening 510 against the restoring force of the spring 660, particularly when a translational thrust along the axis of the crown A is applied to the head 520 by the user. In other words, the spring 660 constrains the crown 120 to its resting position. As will be explained in more detail later, the spring 660 may be conductive. The spring 660 may electrically connect the annular portion 420 to the housing 110.

[0141]

[0129] With reference to Figure 6, at least one sealing gasket (here, two sealing gaskets) 670 is disposed directly on the stem 530. Each sealing gasket 670 provides a watertight seal for the opening 510 when the crown 120 is in its resting position or even when the stem 530 slides into it when the crown 120 is activated by a user. Each sealing gasket 670 can be made of rubber, for example, nitrile rubber, to ensure effective sealing while offering a prolonged service life.

[0142]

[0130] The housing 110 may also include an insulating sleeve 680 configured to electrically isolate the stem 530 from the ring 120 of the housing 110. The insulating sleeve 680 is arranged around the stem 530. As illustrated in Figure 6, the insulating sleeve 680 may be formed from a plurality of parts. In an alternative embodiment not shown, the insulating sleeve 680 consists of a single piece. The insulating sleeve 680 extends at least the length of the opening 510 to ensure effective electrical insulation with the housing 110. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 6, the sealing gasket(s) 670 are surrounded on both sides along the axis of the ring A by two portions of the insulating sleeve 680. The insulating sleeve 680 may be made of thermoplastic, for example, polyoxymethylene, to ensure effective insulation.

[0143]

[0131] The housing 110 may include a conductive sleeve 695. The conductive sleeve 695 may be arranged radially around the sealing gaskets 670 and / or the insulating sleeve 680. The conductive sleeve 695 may provide a support and a housing for the spring 660. The conductive sleeve 695 may be made of electrically conductive material or include an electrically conductive coating. As will be explained in more detail later, the conductive sleeve 695 can electrically connect the spring 660 to the rest of the housing 110.

[0144]

[0132] In an unshown variant, the conductive sleeve 695 may be in contact with the second electrode 420 in the pressed-in configuration.

[0145]

[0133] When the crown 120 is a push button, the device 100 may further include a push sensor 540 disposed inside the housing 110 at the end of the rod 530 and configured to detect the translation of the rod 530. In particular, the rod 530 is away from the push sensor 540 in the rest configuration and the rod 530 is in contact with the push sensor 540 in the pressed configuration.

[0146]

[0134] When the crown 120 is a rotating wheel, the device 100 may further include a rod rotation detector 550 configured to detect the rotation of the rod 530 along the axis A of the crown.

[0147]

[0135] The ring 120 may also include at least one magnet 690. The magnet 690 is arranged within the ring 120, in particular within the internal volume 630 of the ring 120. The magnet 690 may be arranged radially outside the conductive sleeve 695 and / or the spring 660. The magnet 690 may be in the form of a ring. The magnet 690 may be located inside the annular portion 420. In particular, the magnet 690 may extend along the axis of the ring A from the inner lateral face opposite the lateral face 610 to the free end of the peripheral face 620.

[0148] CONTROL UNIT

[0149]

[0136] The device 100 includes at least one printed circuit board 560 (also called a PCB). The printed circuit board 560 is a thin, rigid board containing a printed circuit. The printed circuit board 560 may include a ground plane. The ground plane is generally a large metallic surface connected to the circuit ground. The printed circuit board includes a control unit 700, shown schematically in Figure 7. Other components may also be mounted on the printed circuit board 560, as will be explained below.

[0150]

[0137] The control unit 700 is used to control the on-board electronics of the device 100. The control unit 700 may, for example, include or partially include an ECG module and a PPG module, as will be explained below.

[0151] CONNECTIVITY

[0152]

[0138] The device 100 is connected so that it can exchange data remotely (wirelessly) in a bidirectional manner with a terminal, such as a smartphone. The connection can be made via Bluetooth, for example Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). The watch can also receive data from the terminal (time, alarm data, notifications, etc.).

[0153]

[0139] With reference to Figure 7, the device 100 includes a wireless communication module 710, such as a Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy module, a Wi-Fi module, or a cellular module (GSM, 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, Sigfox, etc.), which enables it to communicate bidirectionally with at least one external terminal 720, such as a smartphone. The external terminal 720 can then communicate (bidirectionally) with a remote server 730 for data storage and processing. Alternatively or in addition, the wireless communication module 810 can communicate directly with the remote server 730, for example, via a cellular network or a Wi-Fi network. Data obtained by the watch 100, such as an electrocardiogram, as well as heart rate, activity, or oxygen saturation readings, are transmitted to the external terminal 720 via the wireless communication module 710.The 700 control unit can process certain signals before sending them, in order to limit the size of the transmitted data.

[0154] PHYSIOLOGICAL SENSOR

[0155]

[0140] The physiological sensor 214 is placed on the bottom of the housing 210.

[0156]

[0141] The physiological sensor 214 may be an optical sensor. The optical sensor is generally a PPG (photoplethysmography) sensor, comprising LEDs to emit light and photodiodes to receive the light. The optical sensor may be placed behind a lens 570, such as a glass lens, which interfaces with the skin of the wrist. Document PCT / EP2021 / 058955, on behalf of Withings™, describes in detail the optical sensor found on the Withings ScanWatch™.

[0157]

[0142] The optical sensor is connected to a PPG 740 module, which can be mounted on the printed circuit board 560. The PPG 740 module is configured to generate instructions for the LEDs and to retrieve electrical signals from the photodiodes.

[0158]

[0143] In an alternative or in addition, the physiological sensor 214 may be a temperature sensor configured to measure skin temperature. The temperature sensor may be a thermistor sensor or an infrared thermal sensor.

[0159] ECG

[0160]

[0144] Device 100 can be configured to measure an electrocardiogram (also called "ECG") of the user.

[0161]

[0145] To retrieve the electrical signals generated by the human body, the 100 watch includes an ECG sensor. In particular, the ECG sensor comprises a set of electrodes (called ECG electrodes) and an ECG 750 electronic module, to which the ECG electrodes are electrically connected. An electrode is defined as a conductive part capable of receiving an electrical current or voltage. The part may be made of a conductive material or have a conductive coating. "Conductor" means "electrically conductive."

[0162]

[0146] In the illustrated embodiment, the device 100 comprises only two ECG electrodes, referred to as ECG1 and ECG2. In an embodiment not shown, the device 100 may comprise a third ECG electrode, for example disposed on the bottom of the housing 210.

[0163]

[0147] As shown in Figure 8, the first ECG electrode, labeled ECG1, is located on the case back 210 so as to be in contact with the skin of the user's wrist on which they wear the watch 100. The first ECG electrode is electrically connected to the ECG module 750. In one embodiment, the case back 210 is the first ECG electrode. In this embodiment, the case back 210 is made of an electrically conductive material, such as metal.

[0164]

[0148] In one variant, the first ECG electrode is disposed on the lens 570, for example with a metallic coating.

[0165]

[0149] The first ECG electrode can at least partially surround the physiological sensor 214.

[0166]

[0150] The second ECG electrode, designated ECG2, can be positioned on the bezel 140, so that the user can touch any part of the bezel 140 to perform an ECG. A part of the bezel 140 is defined as any part of the bezel's surface accessible to the user by touch. In this embodiment, the ring 120 is not an ECG electrode.

[0167]

[0151] In one variant, the second ECG electrode is arranged on the crown 120.

[0168]

[0152] The two electrodes are electrically connected to the ECG 750 module. The ECG 840 module is configured, for example, to impose a potential on one of the two ECG electrodes and to measure a potential on the other of the two ECG electrodes.

[0169]

[0153] The ECG 750 module is configured to acquire electrical signals from the human body and, after processing, to generate an electrocardiogram signal or data representative of electrocardiogram information. The ECG 750 module can be mounted on the 560 printed circuit board.

[0170] ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON THE BATTERY

[0171]

[0154] The 580 battery can be, for example, a Lithium Ion battery or a Lithium Polymer battery. The voltage delivered by the 580 battery is, for example, between 3V and 5V, in particular 4.35V.

[0172]

[0155] The battery 580 can be disposed between the printed circuit board 560 and the housing base 210. As illustrated in figure 9, the battery 580 has the shape of a button, but can alternatively have a parallelepiped shape.

[0173]

[0156] The device 100 further includes a battery charging module 810 configured to control the charging of the rechargeable battery 580. As schematically illustrated in Figure 8, the charging module 810 includes an input port 812 and a battery output port 814. The ring 120 is connected to the input port 812, and the battery 580 is connected to the output port 814 of the battery 580. The charging module 810 is further configured to prevent electric current from flowing from the battery 580 to the ring 120 and, consequently, to prevent the user from receiving electric current from the battery 580. The charging module 810 is further connected to the ground of the device 100, in particular to the ground plane 820 of the printed circuit board 560.

[0174]

[0157] As shown in Figure 8, the charging module 810 includes other outputs to deliver electrical energy from the battery 580 to the various electronic components of the device 100. In particular, the charging module 810 is configured to power, among other things, the wireless communication module 710, the ECG module 750 and the PPG module 740.

[0175]

[0158] The battery 580 comprises a first pole 822 and a second pole 824. In what follows, the first pole 822 is the positive pole and the second pole 824 is the negative pole. The first pole 822 has a higher electrical potential than the second pole 824. However, in one embodiment, the poles of the battery 580 can be reversed.

[0176]

[0159] The first charging electrode EC1 is formed by the central portion 410 of the ring 120. The first electrode EC1 is a physical interface with the electric charger 800 for the conduction of electricity from the electric charger 800 to the battery 580. In other words, the central portion 410 of the ring 120 is on the electrical path between the charger 800 and the battery 580. The first charging electrode EC1 is part of the rod head 600, which is electrically connected to the rod 530 (the same conductive part, in one embodiment), which is then connected to the battery 580.

[0177]

[0160] In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 8, the annular portion 420 is electrically connected to the housing 110, which is itself electrically connected to the second pole 824, so that the annular portion 420 serves as the charging electrode EC2. The electrical connection between the annular portion 420 and the housing 110 (in particular via the outer sleeve 695) can be made by the spring 660 of the ring 120 or, alternatively, directly by the outer sleeve 695 in its pressed-in configuration. The electrode EC2 serves as a physical interface with the electric charger 800 for the conduction of electricity from the electric charger 800 to the battery 580. In other words, the housing 110 is on the electrical path between the charger 800 and the battery 580.

[0178]

[0161] In one embodiment, the annular portion 420 is electrically connected to the housing base 210, which is itself electrically connected to the second pole 824. In another embodiment, the annular portion 420 is directly connected to the second pole 824. The embodiment with the second pole 824 connected to the housing 110 will be described in detail below. This description can be similarly adapted to the embodiment in which the second pole 824 is connected to the housing base 210 or directly to the annular portion 420. In the case where the base 210 is connected to the second pole 824, the device 100 includes a switch configured to disconnect the first ECG electrode ECG1 from the ECG module 750 when the battery 580 is charging.

[0179]

[0162] The electronic board 560 can be arranged electrically respectively between the first pole 822 and the ring 120, and between the second pole 824 and the housing 110, so as to control the charging of the battery 580. In particular, with reference to Figure 8, the housing 110 is directly connected to the ground of the device 100, i.e. to the ground plane 820, and the second pole 824 is directly connected to the ground of the device 100, in particular to the ground plane 820. Therefore, the annular portion 420, the housing 110 and the second pole 824 are all connected to the ground plane 820 and are thus connected to each other.

[0180]

[0163] As can be seen in Figure 8, the housing 110 is connected to the ground plane 820 by a conductive contact 830, in particular a metallic conductive contact 830. In the illustrated embodiment, the conductive contact 830 is a metallic spring, in particular a spring fixed at one end to the ground plane 820 and comprising a free V-shaped opposite end. The opposite end is bent and constrained towards the housing 110. In a variant not shown, the conductive element 830 may be a metallic pin.

[0181]

[0164] In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 3, the housing 110 and the base 210 being joined together, the housing 110 and the base 210 are both electrically connected to the second pole 924.

[0182]

[0165] In the case where the housing base 210 is not an integral part of the housing 110, the housing base 210 can be electrically connected to the second pole 820 in an embodiment not shown. In particular, the housing base 210 is directly connected to the ground of the device 100, i.e., to the ground plane 820, and the second pole 824 is directly connected to the ground of the device 100, in particular to the ground plane 820. The housing base 210 is connected to the ground plane 820 by a conductive contact 830.

[0183]

[0166] When the crown 120 is a push button, the central portion 410 of the crown 120 can be connected to the first terminal 822 of the battery 580 when the crown 120 is in its resting position. The crown 120 can be disconnected from the first terminal 822 when the crown 120 is in its pressed position.

[0184]

[0167] In one embodiment, the central portion 410 of the ring 120 can be permanently connected to the first pole 822. In another embodiment, the central portion 410 of the ring 210 can be connected to the first pole 822 only when the ring 120 is in the pressed configuration.

[0185]

[0168] The first pole 822 and the second pole 824 are configured to be connected to the electric charger 800 in order to recharge the battery 580. In particular, the charger 800 is configured to be in electrical contact with the central portion 410 and annular portion 420 of the ring 120 in order to recharge the battery 580.

[0186] FPC

[0187]

[0169] As shown in Figure 10, the central portion 410 of the ring 120 is connected to the printed circuit board 460, and in particular to the battery control module 810, via a flexible printed circuit 1010 (also called an FPC). The FPC 1010 comprises a trace metal layer, usually copper, bonded to a dielectric layer, usually polyimide. The thickness of the metal layer can be between 0.001 mm and 0.01 mm, and the thickness of the dielectric can be between 0.01 mm and 0.2 mm. An adhesive can be used to bond the metal to the substrate, but other bonding methods such as vapor deposition can be used to fix the metal. The FPC 1010 can bend without cracking or breaking, which facilitates assembly of the device 100 during the manufacturing process.

[0188]

[0170] As can be seen in Figure 10, the FPC 1010 generally extends in a circular shape and comprises at least two branches, in particular three branches extending respectively to a first end 1020, a second end 1030 and advantageously a third end 1040. The FPC 1010 is directly connected to the stem 530 of the ring 120 at the first end 1020. The FPC 1010 is directly connected to the printed circuit board 560. Therefore, the FPC 1010 connects the central portion 410 of the ring 120 to the printed circuit board 460.

[0189]

[0171] The FPC 1010 can also be connected to at least one of the following: the altimeter, one of the ECG electrodes, the temperature sensor, the optical sensor, the rod rotation detector. In particular, in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 10, the FPC 1010 is connected to an altimeter at the third end 1240, to the second ECG electrode at connection 1050, to the optical sensor at connection 1060, and to the rod rotation detector 550 at connection 1070.

[0190]

[0172] The FPC 1010, and in particular the first end 1020, includes a hook-shaped end configured to cooperate with the rod 530 (i.e., partially surrounding it) in order to electrically connect the central portion 410 to the FPC 1010. As can be seen in Figure 10, the hook is oriented towards the bottom 210. In other words, the first end 1020 extends in a vertical plane and includes a slot oriented towards the bottom 210 to receive the rod 530. In an alternative embodiment not shown, the FPC 1010 defines a disc opening at the first end 1020 into which the rod 530 is inserted to electrically connect the central portion 410 to the FPC 1010.

[0191] CHARGER

[0192]

[0173] Figures 11 and 13 illustrate an assembly consisting of a device 100 and an electric charger 800. Only the housing 110 and the crown 120 are shown in the device 100 for clarity.

[0193]

[0174] The assembly is configured to alternate between a separate configuration and a charging configuration. In the separate configuration, illustrated in Figure 13, the charger 800 is located away from the device 100. In the charging configuration, illustrated in Figure 11, the charger 800 cooperates with the device 100 to electrically charge the rechargeable battery 580.

[0194]

[0175] In particular, when the user wears the watch 100 on their wrist, the assembly is in a separate configuration. The charger 800 can rest on a table, and when the battery 580 is empty, the user can pick up and pair the device 100 with the charger 800 to switch to the charging configuration in order to recharge the battery 580.

[0195]

[0176] The charger 800 may include a charging head 1110 configured to be in contact with the crown 120 in the charging configuration.

[0196]

[0177] The charger 800 may include a connection system 1120 shown schematically in Figure 11. The connection system 1120 is configured to connect the head 1110 to a power source. The connection system 1120 may include a connecting cable and a plug, in particular a USB plug. The connecting cable may be permanently connected to the head 1110 or may be removably connected to the head 1110, for example via a USB connection. The plug may be connected to a power adapter, not shown, to connect the charger 800 to a power supply. The plug may also be directly connected to an external battery.

[0197]

[0178] In an alternative not shown, the 800 charger does not include a connection system. The 800 charger may then include an external battery housed directly in the 1110 head.

[0198]

[0179] In the loading configuration, the loading head 1110 extends in line with the ring 120. In one embodiment, the loading head 1110 has a substantially cylindrical shape, extending mainly along a head axis B. In the loading configuration, the head axis B is preferably parallel, in particular coincident, with the axis of the ring A. The diameter of the loading head 1110 is, for example, less than twice the diameter of the ring 120, in particular less than 1.5 times the diameter of the ring 120, in particular substantially equal to the diameter of the ring 120.

[0199]

[0180] In this embodiment, the connecting cable extends from the charging head 1110 in a direction orthogonal to the axis of the head B, as shown in Figure 11. In a variant illustrated in Figure 13, the connecting cable extends in a direction parallel to the axis of the head B.

[0200]

[0181] The charger 800 includes a first electrical connector 1110 and a second electrical connector 1140. The first electrical connector 1110 and the second electrical connector 1140 are configured to cooperate with the first electrode EC1 and the second electrode EC2, respectively. In particular, the first electrical connector 1130 and the second electrical connector 1140 are arranged at the head 1110. The two electrical connectors 1130 are configured to be connected, notably via connection system 1120, to a power source.

[0201]

[0182] The first electrical connector 1130 is configured to cooperate with the first electrode EC1 along an engagement axis T. The second electrical connector 1140 is configured to cooperate with the second electrode EC2 along the same engagement axis T.

[0202]

[0183] Each engagement axis defines the principal axis along which the electrical connector can be connected to the associated electrode. In other words, when the user switches the entire assembly from the separate configuration to the load configuration, they essentially move each electrical connector along the engagement axis to connect it to the associated electrode. This movement along the engagement axis does not preclude ancillary translational and / or rotational movements when the connector and electrode are brought closer together. In certain configurations, such as with a flat ICO connection interface, it is possible to connect the electrodes and electrical connectors via a direction other than the engagement axis, for example, by lateral sliding of the two interfaces in the example given.In the context of the invention, the electrodes and electrical connectors are arranged so that the charger can be engaged with the ring via the same axis of engagement. Thus, when switching from the separate configuration to the charging configuration, and vice versa, the two electrical connectors can move along the same axis of engagement, thereby facilitating the engagement of connector 800 onto ring 120.

[0203]

[0184] In one embodiment, the engagement axis T is parallel to the axis of the ring A. The engagement axis T may also be parallel to the axis of the head B. In the load configuration, the axes of the ring A, the head B, and engagement T may then be parallel. Thus, when switching from the separated configuration to the load configuration, and vice versa, the connector 800 moves along the axis of the ring A, orthogonally to the ICO connection interface.

[0204]

[0185] The two connectors 1130, 1140 open onto a load interface ICH. The load interface ICH is a load face configured to be in contact with the connection interface ICO of the ring 120 in the load configuration. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 5, the load interface ICH and the connection interface ICO extend in the same plane in the load configuration, in particular in a plane orthogonal to the axis of the ring A.

[0205]

[0186] In one embodiment, the ICH charging interface is symmetrical of revolution, in particular with respect to the axis of the head B, which allows an electrical connection independently of the angular orientation around the axis of the head B.

[0206]

[0187] In particular, as shown in Figure 12, the first connector 1130 has a disc shape on the charging interface ICH, in a plane transverse to the axis of the head B. The first connector 1130 is, for example, a charging pin. The first connector 1130 can be translationally movable, for example, along the engagement axis T. The charger 800 can then include a spring 1130 connected to the first connector 1130. The spring 1430 forces the first connector 1130 outward from the head 1110 (at least to the level of a convex surface formed by the head 1110). The charger 800 can also include a stop 1142 to limit the movement of the first connector 1130 outward from the head 1110.

[0207]

[0188] The second connector 1140 may have an annular shape on the ICH charging interface. In particular, the second connector 1140 is arranged annularly around the first connector 1130 on the ICH charging interface.

[0208]

[0189] In one embodiment, the first connector 1130 protrudes from the second connector 1140 in the separate configuration of the charger 800. In the charging configuration, the first connector 1130 and the second connector 1140 are aligned at the charging interface ICH, orthogonally to the engagement axis T.

[0209]

[0190] The two connectors 1130, 1140 are electrically isolated from each other. In particular, a seal 1150 can be arranged between the two connectors 1130, 1140. The seal 1150 is, for example, in the form of a sleeve arranged between the two connectors 1130, 1140.

[0210]

[0191] In an alternative or additional variant, the charger 800 may also include at least one magnet. The magnet is arranged in the head 1110. The magnet may be in the form of a ring, for example around the first connector 1130.

[0211]

[0192] Thus, each electrical connector 1130, 1140 is configured to cooperate with the associated electrode EC1, EC2 via a magnetic link. In other words, the ring 120 and the charger 800 are held in contact by a magnetic link, in particular by a magnet arranged in the ring 120 and / or in the head 1110 of the charger 800. In other words, the magnetic link between the charger 800 and the ring 120 can be made via two magnets arranged in the ring and the charger or via a single magnet located in the ring (as shown in Figure 5) or in the head of the charger 800 (variant not shown).

[0212]

[0193] Alternatively or in addition, the 800 magazine may also include a mechanical fastener for securing the crown to the 800 magazine. The mechanical fastener includes, for example, a movable part on the magazine designed to cooperate with the crown to hold the crown attached to the magazine. The mechanical fastener is configured to move from an open configuration, allowing the magazine to contact the crown or the magazine to be released from the crown, to a holding configuration in which the mechanical fastener mechanically holds the crown onto the magazine.

[0213] LOADING METHOD

[0214]

[0194] A method of charging a battery 580 of a device 100 using a charger 800 will now be described.

[0215]

[0195] The assembly is initially in a separate configuration, with device 100 located away from charger 800. Device 100 can be worn on the user's wrist. The user can monitor the charge level of battery 580 using the display 136.

[0216]

[0196] When the 580 battery is low or empty, the user may want to recharge the 580 battery. The user may then remove their watch from their wrist, or alternatively keep it on their wrist.

[0217]

[0197] The user then switches the entire separate configuration to the charging configuration. In particular, the user can grasp the charger 800 and the device 100 and bring them closer together by placing the ICO connection interface of the ring 120 opposite the ICH charging interface of the charger 800. The user then brings the two interfaces into contact by moving them primarily in translation along the engagement axis T from the charger 800 to the ring 120.

[0218]

[0198] In one embodiment, the ICO connection interface and the ICH charging interface are symmetrical about revolution around the crown axis A and the head axis B respectively, allowing an electrical connection between the charger and the head independently of the respective angular orientation of the charger and the head.

[0219]

[0199] The crown 120 and the head 1110 are then held in contact via a magnetic link.

[0220]

[0200] The first electrical connector 1130 is then in contact with the first electrode EC1 and the second electrical connector 1140 is in contact with the second electrode EC2.

[0221]

[0201] The charger 800 then electrically charges the rechargeable battery 580 of the device 100.

[0222]

[0202] The user can monitor the battery charge level 580 using the screen 136. In addition or as a complement, the device 100 can send a notification to an external terminal 720 informing the user when the battery 580 is fully charged.

[0223]

[0203] The user can then switch the entire charging configuration to the separate configuration. In particular, the user can then remove the 800 charger by pulling it slightly away from the crown, specifically along the engagement axis T.

[0224]

[0204] Device 100 can be used again and worn on the user's wrist.

[0225]

[0205] The charging method is therefore simple for the user and allows efficient charging of the device 100 by ensuring good mechanical and electrical contact between the charger 800 and the device 100.

Claims

Demands 1. Set comprising: • a portable device (100) comprising: a housing (110), a rechargeable battery (580), the battery (580) being positioned in the housing (110), a ring (120) movable in rotation and / or translation relative to the housing (110) along a ring axis (A), the ring (120) being configured to provide a user interface between the device (100) and the user, the ring (120) comprising a first electrode (EC1) and a second electrode (EC2) for charging the battery, • a charger (800) comprising a first electrical connector (1130) and a second electrical connector (1140) configured to cooperate respectively with the first electrode (EC1) and the second electrode (EC2), in which the first electrical connector (1130) is configured to be able to cooperate with the first electrode (EC1) along an engagement axis (T) and the second electrical connector (1140) is configured to be able to cooperate with the second electrode (EC2) along the same engagement axis (T).

2. Assembly according to claim 1, wherein the crown comprises a lateral face (610) and a peripheral face (620) extending from a periphery of the lateral face (610), wherein the first electrode (EC1) and the second electrode (EC2) are arranged on the lateral face (610).

3. Assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the engagement axis (T) is parallel to the axis of the crown (A).

4. Assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the crown (120) comprises a central portion (410) and an annular portion (420) disposed around the central portion (410), the first electrode (EC1) being disposed on the central portion (410) and the second electrode (EC2) on the annular portion (420).

5. Assembly according to claim 4, wherein the first electrode (EC1) is connected to the battery (580) via the central portion (410).

6. Assembly according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the crown (120) includes a spring (660) for constraining the crown (120) in the rest configuration, the second electrode (EC2) being connected to the battery (580) via the annular portion (420), the spring (660) and the housing (110).

7. Assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the two electrodes (EC1, EC2) terminate at a connection interface (ICO), the connection interface (ICO) being rotationally symmetrical with respect to the axis of the crown (A).

8. Assembly according to claim 7, wherein the connection interface (ICO) is planar or convex, in particular slightly domed.

9. Assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the two electrical connectors (1130, 1140) terminate at a charging interface (ICH), the charging interface (ICH) being symmetrical of revolution about the engagement axis (T).

10. Assembly according to claim 9, wherein the second connector (1140) is arranged annularly around the first connector (1130) on the charging interface (ICH).

11. Assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the electrical connectors (1130, 1140) is movable in translation, for example along the engagement axis (T).

12. Assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the charger comprises a charging head (1110) housing the two electrical connectors (1130, 1140), the charging head (1110) extending in the continuation of the ring (120) along the axis of the ring (A) when charging the battery (580).

13. Assembly according to claim 12, wherein the transverse dimension of the charging head (1110) is less than twice the diameter of the ring (120), in particular less than 1.5 times the diameter of the ring (120), in particular substantially equal to the diameter of the ring (120).

14. Assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one magnet is arranged in the ring (120) and / or in the charger (800).

15. Assembly according to claims 4 and 14, wherein at least one magnet (690) is arranged in the annular portion (420) of the ring (120).

16. Assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the charger (800) includes a mechanical fastener for fixing the crown (120) to the charger (800), the mechanical fastener comprising for example a movable part on the charger (800) adapted to cooperate with the crown (120) to keep the crown (120) fixed to the charger (800).

17. Assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the crown (120) comprises a head (520) disposed outside the housing (110) and a stem (530) extending from the head (520) through the housing (110), and wherein: the wearable device (100) comprises a thrust detector (540) disposed inside the housing (110) at the end of the stem (530) and configured to detect the translation of the stem (530); and / or the wearable device (100) comprises a stem rotation detector (550) configured to detect the rotation of the stem (530) along the axis of the crown (120).

18. A loading method implemented by an assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, the method comprising the following successive steps: - transition of the assembly from a separate configuration in which the charger (800) is away from the ring (120) of the device (100), to a charging configuration in which the charger (800) cooperates with the ring (120) along the engagement axis (T), - charging the device's rechargeable battery using the charger.

Images