Wearable device

Abstract

[Problem] To provide a wearable device that fits snugly without causing discomfort.　[Solution] A wearable device 1 comprises: a band 2 that is configured from a poorly absorbent material and is provided with a plurality of notches 21; and a buckle part 32 that is configured integrally with a device body 3. The buckle part 32 includes: an insertion port 321 through which the band 2 is inserted; and a locking claw 323 that engages with any one of a plurality of notches (engagement parts) 21 provided in the band 2 inserted through the insertion port 321, and allows movement of the band 2 in an extraction direction while restricting movement of the band 2 in the insertion direction. The buckle part 54 further includes a release piece 542 that releases the engagement between a locking claw 543 and the notch (engagement part) 21.

Description

Wearable device

[0001] The present invention relates to a wearable device, particularly a wearable device that can be worn closely without discomfort.

[0002] As a wearable device, like a conventional wristwatch, a device including a band made of a material such as silicon, urethane, or leather provided with discontinuous mounting holes and a connecting part including a pin is widely used (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Since resins such as silicon and urethane are materials that do not absorb sweat, bands made of silicon or urethane materials have the advantage of being comfortable to use, but on the other hand, because the mounting holes are discontinuous, when wearing a wearable device, the pin must be inserted into the mounting hole while loosening, and there is a drawback that a feeling of close contact with the user's wrist cannot be ensured.

[0003] Also, as a wearable device, a device including a watch band having a nylon hook-and-loop fastener is widely known (see, for example, Patent Document 2). A watch band having a nylon hook-and-loop fastener has the advantage that it can be adjusted steplessly and can be worn with the wearable device closely attached to the user's wrist, but on the other hand, since nylon is a fibrous material that absorbs sweat and dirt, there is a drawback that it gives discomfort to the user.

[0004] In addition, the specifications, claims, and entire drawings of Patent Documents 1 and 2 are incorporated herein by reference.

[0005] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2019-017635, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2020-528794

[0006] The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide a wearable device that can be worn closely without discomfort.

[0007] To achieve the above objective, the wearable device (1, 4) according to the present invention comprises a band (2, 5a, 13) made of a poorly absorbent material and provided with a plurality of engaging portions (21, 131); an insertion opening (321, 541, 841, 1041, 1541) through which the band (2, 5a, 13) is inserted; and a buckle portion (32, 54, 84, 104, 154) that engages with any of the plurality of engaging portions (21, 131) provided on the band (2, 5a, 13) inserted through the insertion opening (321, 541, 841, 1041, 1541), allowing the band (2, 5a, 13) to move in the insertion direction while restricting its movement in the insertion direction.

[0008] In the above-described wearable devices (1, 4), the buckle portion (32) may be integrally formed with the main body (3) of the wearable device (1).

[0009] In the above-described wearable device (1, 4), the buckle portion (32, 54, 84, 154) may further include release portions (322, 542, 842, 1542) for releasing the engagement between the locking claws (323, 543, 843, 1543) and the engaging portion (21, 131).

[0010] In the above-described wearable device (4), the buckle portion (84) may include a buckle body (840) including the insertion opening (841), a locking portion (845) including the locking claw (843) and the release portion (842), and a spring (846) interposed between the buckle body (840) and the locking portion (844), wherein when force is applied to the release portion (842) and the spring (846) contracts, the engagement between the locking claw (843) and the engaging portions (21, 131) is released.

[0011] In the above-described wearable device (4), it is preferable that the locking portion (845) is formed from a wear-resistant material.

[0012] In the above-described wearable device (4), the buckle portion (104) comprises a buckle body (1040) including the insertion opening (1041) and the locking claw (1043), and a gripping portion (1045) connected to the buckle body (1040) via a spring (1046), which grips the band (5a) with the buckle body (1040) by the extension or contraction force of the spring (1046), thereby engaging the locking claw (1043) with one of the plurality of engaging portions (21, 131) provided on the band (5a), and the gripping portion (1045) may include a release portion (1042) for contracting or extending the spring (1046) to release the engagement between the locking claw (1043) and the engaging portion (21, 131).

[0013] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a wearable device that can be worn snugly and comfortably without causing discomfort.

[0014] This is an external perspective view showing an example configuration of a wearable device according to the first embodiment. This is a surface view showing an example configuration of a band according to the first embodiment. (a) is a surface view showing an example configuration of the device body according to the first embodiment, and (b) is a side cross-sectional view illustrating the fitting of the device body and the band according to the first embodiment. This is an external perspective view showing an example configuration of a wearable device according to the second embodiment. This is a surface view showing an example configuration of a band according to the second embodiment. (a) is a surface view showing an example configuration of the buckle portion according to the second embodiment, and (b) is a bottom view showing an example configuration of the buckle portion according to the second embodiment. This is a side cross-sectional view illustrating the fitting of the buckle portion and the band according to the second embodiment. (a) is an external perspective view showing an example configuration of the buckle portion according to the third embodiment, and (b) is a side cross-sectional view showing an example configuration of the buckle portion according to the third embodiment. This is a side cross-sectional view illustrating the fitting of the buckle portion and the band according to the third embodiment. This is a side view showing an example configuration of a band according to the fourth embodiment. (a) is a surface view showing an example configuration of the buckle portion according to the fourth embodiment, and (b) is a side cross-sectional view showing an example configuration of the buckle portion according to the fourth embodiment. (a) is a plan view showing the buckle body according to the fourth embodiment when the spring is contracted, (b) is a perspective cross-sectional view showing the buckle body and band according to the fourth embodiment when the spring is contracted, (c) is a plan view showing the buckle body according to the fourth embodiment when the spring is extended, and (d) is a perspective cross-sectional view showing the buckle body and band according to the fourth embodiment when the spring is extended. This is a surface view showing an example of the band configuration according to Modification 1. This is a side cross-sectional view illustrating the fitting of the band and buckle portion according to Modification 1. (a) is a surface view showing an example of the band configuration according to Modification 2, and (b) is a side view showing an example of the band configuration according to Modification 2. (a) is an external perspective view showing an example of the buckle portion configuration according to Modification 2, and (b) is a surface view showing an example of the buckle configuration according to Modification 2.

[0015] The following describes embodiments for carrying out the present invention. [First Embodiment]

[0016] First, the configuration of a wearable device according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0017] The wearable device according to this embodiment consists of, for example, a deep body thermometer or a wristwatch-type electronic device such as a smartwatch, as described in International Publication No. 2020 / 184511, International Publication No. 2023 / 162054, International Publication No. 2023 / 218520, International Publication No. 2024 / 185020, Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-070518, and Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-142328. Furthermore, this specification incorporates, for reference, the entire specifications, claims, and drawings of International Publication No. 2020 / 184511, International Publication No. 2023 / 162054, International Publication No. 2023 / 218520, International Publication No. 2024 / 185020, Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-070518, and Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-142328.

[0018] Figure 1 is an external perspective view showing an example configuration of a wearable device according to the first embodiment.

[0019] As shown in Figure 1, the wearable device 1 comprises a band 2 and the main body of the wearable device 1 (hereinafter referred to as the "device body") 3.

[0020] Band 2 is for attaching the wearable device 1 to the user's wrist and is made of a poorly absorbent material that does not absorb (or has difficulty absorbing) fluids (liquids, gases, and multiphase fluids) such as the user's sweat and dirt. Examples of poorly absorbent materials include resins such as silicone and urethane, carbon, synthetic leather, and leather. Band 2 is formed to the length necessary to cover the user's wrist.

[0021] Figure 2 is a surface view showing an example of the band configuration according to the first embodiment.

[0022] As shown in Figure 2, the band 2, like a general-purpose cable tie, has multiple tooth-shaped notches (engaging parts) 21 on one side that are spaced approximately evenly along its longitudinal direction. An expandable and retractable spring pin 22 is embedded in the short direction of the band 2 at one end, and a stopper 23 is formed at the other end.

[0023] The device body 3 shown in Figure 1 is constructed by housing various sensors, a speaker, and an MCU (Micro Controller Unit), etc., within a housing made of, for example, plastic, and incorporating electronic equipment not shown. Under the control of the MCU, the device body 3 measures the user's core body temperature, blood pressure, and other vital information using various sensors, and if it determines that the user is at risk of heatstroke, it emits a warning sound from the speaker. The device body 3 may also be equipped with a touchscreen, wireless communication equipment, operation buttons, etc. In this case, the user's core body temperature, blood pressure, and other vital information measured by the various sensors may be displayed on the touchscreen or wirelessly transmitted to an external computer such as a smartphone.

[0024] Figure 3(a) is a surface view showing an example of the configuration of the device body according to the first embodiment, and Figure 3(b) is a side cross-sectional view illustrating the fitting of the device body and the band according to the first embodiment.

[0025] In Figures 3(a) and 3(b), when the wearable device 1 is worn, the side of the device body 3 that contacts the user's wrist is the back surface, the opposite side is the front surface, the connection surfaces between the band 2 and the device body 3 are the top and bottom surfaces, and the remaining surfaces are the sides.

[0026] As shown in Figure 3(a), the device body 3 has a mounting portion 31 on its lower surface for rotatably attaching one end of the band 2, while a buckle portion 32 on its upper surface for fitting the other end of the band 2. In this embodiment, the buckle portion 32 is integrally formed with the device body 3.

[0027] The mounting portion 31 has fitting holes 311 and 312 formed on the inside of both ends, which can be rotatably fitted to both ends of the spring pin 22. When one end of the band 2 is inserted into the mounting portion 31, the mounting portion 31 causes the spring pin 22 to contract, and when both ends of the spring pin 22 are positioned in the fitting holes 311 and 312, the spring pin 22 extends and fits into the fitting holes 311 and 312. As a result, one end of the band 2 is rotatably attached to the device body 3.

[0028] As shown in Figures 3(a) and (b), the buckle portion 32 is provided with an insertion opening 321 through which the other end of the band 2 is inserted, a release piece (release portion) 322 extending downward from the lower surface of the device body 3, and a locking claw 323 formed on the upper part of the release piece 322 so as to protrude inward from the insertion opening 321.

[0029] When the release piece 322 is pressed against the back of the device body 3 and elastically deformed, the locking claw 323 moves towards the bottom of the device body 3, and the insertion opening 321 is opened. The user inserts the stopper 23 of the band 2 into the insertion opening 321 from the back of the device body 3 while the insertion opening 321 is open, causing a portion of the band 2 to protrude from the insertion opening 321 toward the front. Alternatively, the band 2 arrives in the user's hands with the stopper 23 protruding toward the front.

[0030] As shown in Figure 3(b), the user inserts the band 2 into the insertion opening 321 by pulling a portion of the band 2 protruding from the insertion opening 321 toward the surface of the device body 3, causing the locking claw 323 to swing elastically up and down. When the user stops pulling the band 2, the locking claw 323 engages with the notch 21 at that position. As a result, the user can pull the band 2 further toward the surface of the device body 3 (insertion direction), but cannot pull it back toward the back of the device body 3 (insertion direction (opposite direction)) to loosen it.

[0031] Then, when the user stops pulling the band 2 at a position where the size of the loop formed by the band 2 and the device body 3 approximately matches the circumference of the user's wrist, the locking claw 323 engages with the notch 21 at that position, and the buckle portion 32 fits with the band 2. This allows the user to wear the wearable device 1 on their wrist.

[0032] Furthermore, when the release piece 322 is pressed towards the back of the device body 3 and elastically deformed, the locking claw 323 moves towards the bottom of the device body 3, disengaging the locking claw 323 from the notch 21, allowing the user to pull the band 2 back towards the back of the device body 3 (in the insertion direction (opposite direction)). This allows the user to loosen the band 2 and remove the wearable device 1 from their wrist without cutting the band 2.

[0033] As described above, the wearable device 1 according to this embodiment comprises a band 2 made of a poorly absorbent material and provided with a plurality of notches 21, and a buckle portion 32 integrally formed with the device body 3. The buckle portion 32 includes an insertion opening 321 through which the band 2 is inserted, and a locking claw 323 that engages with one of the plurality of notches (engaging portions) 21 provided on the band 2 inserted through the insertion opening 321, allowing movement of the band 2 in the insertion direction while restricting movement in the insertion direction.

[0034] By adopting this configuration, when the user stops pulling the band 2 at a position that roughly matches the circumference of their wrist, the locking claw 323 engages with the notch 21 at that position, allowing the wearable device 1 to be securely attached to the wrist. Furthermore, since the band 2 is made of a poorly absorbent material such as silicone, urethane resin, carbon, synthetic leather, and genuine leather, which do not absorb sweat or other fluids from the user, the user can wear the wearable device 1 for extended periods without discomfort.

[0035] As a result, the user can wear the wearable device 1 according to this embodiment in a close and comfortable manner. Furthermore, since the user can continue to wear the wearable device 1 for a long period of time without burden, the device body 3 can be closely attached to the wrist, and various sensors on the back can acquire the user's core body temperature, blood pressure, and other biometric information (vital information) with high accuracy.

[0036] Furthermore, the buckle portion 32 further includes a release piece (release portion) 322 for releasing the engagement between the locking claw 323 and the notch (engagement portion) 21. This is economical because the user can loosen the band 2 and remove the wearable device 1 from their wrist for reuse without cutting the band 2.

[0037] Furthermore, since the buckle portion 32 is integrally formed with the device body 3, the number of components constituting the wearable device 1 can be reduced, and assembly is also easy, thus reducing manufacturing costs and enabling the wearable device 1 to be manufactured at a low cost. [Second Embodiment]

[0038] Next, the configuration of the wearable device according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that components similar to those in the wearable device 1 according to the first embodiment described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0039] Figure 4 is an external perspective view showing an example configuration of a wearable device according to the second embodiment.

[0040] As shown in Figure 4, the wearable device 4 comprises bands 5a and 5b and a device body 6.

[0041] The device body 6 has a mounting portion 61a on its lower surface for rotatably attaching one end of the band 5a, while the device body 6 has a mounting portion 61b on its upper surface for rotatably attaching one end of the band 5b.

[0042] Bands 5a and 5b, like band 2, are made of a poorly absorbent material. Bands 5a and 5b are formed to the length necessary to cover the user's wrist together.

[0043] Band 5a has substantially the same configuration as band 2, but since bands 5a and 5b together are formed to the length necessary to enclose the user's wrist, band 5a alone is formed to be shorter than band 2. One end of band 5a is rotatably attached to the mounting portion 61a.

[0044] FIG. 5 is a top view showing a configuration example of the band according to the second embodiment.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 5, at both ends of the band 5b, stretchable spring pins 52 or the like are embedded in the short side direction of the band 5b. One end of the band 5b is rotatably attached to the attachment portion 61b via the spring pin 52, while the other end is attached to the buckle portion 54 via a spring pin (not shown).

[0046] The buckle portion 54 is for fitting the other end of the band 5a and is formed of, for example, plastic or the like.

[0047] FIG. 6(a) is a top view showing a configuration example of the buckle portion according to the second embodiment, and FIG. 6(b) is a bottom view showing a configuration example of the buckle portion according to the second embodiment.

[0048] In FIGS. 6(a) and 6(b), when the wearable device 1 is worn, the surface of the buckle portion 54 that contacts the user's wrist is the back surface, the opposite surface is the front surface, the connection surface between the band 2b and the buckle portion 54 is the bottom surface, the opposite surface is the top surface, and the remaining surface is the side surface.

[0049] As shown in FIGS. 6(a) and 6(b), the buckle portion 54 is provided with an insertion port 541 through which the other end of the band 5a is inserted, a release piece (release portion) 542 extending downward from the bottom surface of the buckle portion 54, and a locking claw 543 formed to protrude inside the insertion port 541 on the back surface of the release piece 542. In the present embodiment, the insertion port 541 is provided from the bottom surface to the top surface of the buckle portion 54.

[0050] FIG. 7 is a side cross-sectional view illustrating the fitting of the buckle portion and the band according to the second embodiment.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 7, when the release piece 542 is pulled in the surface direction of the buckle portion 54 and elastically deformed, the locking claw 543 moves in the surface direction of the buckle portion 54, and the insertion port 541 is opened. The user inserts the stopper 23 of the band 5a into the insertion port 541 from the bottom surface direction of the buckle portion 54 while opening the insertion port 541, and projects a part of the band 5a from the insertion port 541 in the top surface direction.

[0052] The user pulls a portion of the band 5a protruding upward from the insertion opening 541 toward the upward direction of the buckle portion 54, inserting the band 5a into the insertion opening 541 while elastically swinging the locking claw 543 up and down. When the user stops pulling the band 5a, the locking claw 543 engages with the notch 21 at that position. As a result, the user can pull the band 5a further toward the upward direction (insertion direction) of the buckle portion 54, but cannot pull it back toward the downward direction (insertion direction (opposite direction)) of the buckle portion 54 to loosen it.

[0053] Then, when the user stops pulling band 5a at a position where the size of the loop formed by bands 5a and 5b and the device body 6 approximately matches the circumference of the user's wrist, the locking claw 543 engages with the notch 21 at that position, and the buckle portion 54 fits with band 5a. This allows the user to wear the wearable device 4 on their wrist.

[0054] Furthermore, when the release piece 542 is pulled towards the surface of the buckle portion 54 and elastically deformed, the locking claw 543 moves towards the surface of the buckle portion 54, disengaging the locking claw 543 from the notch 21, allowing the user to pull the band 5a back towards the underside of the buckle portion 54 (in the insertion direction (opposite direction)). This allows the user to loosen the bands 5a and 5b and remove the wearable device 4 from their wrist without cutting the bands 5a and 5b.

[0055] As described above, the wearable device 4 according to this embodiment comprises a band 5a made of a poorly absorbent material and provided with a plurality of notches 21, and a buckle portion 54 attached to the band 5b. The buckle portion 54 includes an insertion opening 541 through which the band 5a is inserted, and a locking claw 543 that engages with one of the plurality of notches (engaging portions) 21 provided on the band 5a inserted from the insertion opening 541, allowing movement of the band 5a in the insertion direction while restricting movement in the insertion direction.

[0056] By adopting this configuration, when the user stops pulling the band 2 at a position that roughly matches the circumference of their wrist, the locking claw 543 engages with the notch 21 at that position, allowing the wearable device 4 to be securely attached to the wrist. Furthermore, since the bands 5a and 5b are made of non-absorbent materials such as silicone, urethane resin, carbon, synthetic leather, and genuine leather, rather than fibers such as nylon that absorb sweat, dirt, etc., the user can wear the wearable device 4 for extended periods without discomfort.

[0057] As a result, the user can wear the wearable device 4 according to this embodiment in a close and comfortable manner. Furthermore, since the user can continue to wear the wearable device 4 for a long period of time without burden, the device body 3 can be closely attached to the wrist, and various sensors on the back can acquire the user's core body temperature, blood pressure, and other biometric information (vital information) with high accuracy.

[0058] Furthermore, the buckle portion 54 further includes a release piece (release portion) 542 for releasing the engagement between the locking claw 543 and the notch (engagement portion) 21. This makes it economical because the user can loosen the bands 5a and 5b and remove the wearable device 4 from their wrist for reuse without cutting the bands 5a and 5b. [Third Embodiment]

[0059] Next, the configuration of the wearable device according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that components similar to those in the wearable devices 1 and 4 according to the first and second embodiments described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0060] In this embodiment, the wearable device 4 comprises bands 5a and 8b (see Figure 9) and a device body 6. Band 8b is made of a poorly absorbent material, similar to bands 2, 5a, and 5b. Expandable spring pins or the like are embedded at both ends of band 8b in the short direction of band 8b.

[0061] In this embodiment, one end of the band 8b is rotatably attached to the mounting portion 61b via a spring pin 52, while the other end is attached to a buckle portion composed of multiple parts via a spring pin (not shown), unlike in the second embodiment described above.

[0062] Figure 8(a) is an external perspective view showing an example of the buckle configuration according to the third embodiment, and (b) is a side cross-sectional view showing an example of the buckle configuration according to the third embodiment.

[0063] As shown in Figures 8(a) and (b), the buckle portion 84 is composed of multiple parts, including the buckle body 840, the locking portion 845, the spring 846, and the rotating shaft pin 847.

[0064] The buckle body 840 is formed from, for example, plastic, similar to the first and second embodiments described above. The buckle body 840 is provided with an insertion opening 841 through which the other end of the band 5a is inserted, and mounting parts 844a and 844b for rotatably attaching the locking part 845. In this embodiment, the insertion opening 841 is provided from the lower surface to the upper surface of the buckle part 84, similar to the second embodiment described above. Holes are formed approximately in the center of the mounting parts 844a and 844b, through which the rotating shaft pin 847 can be inserted.

[0065] The locking portion 845 is formed from a wear-resistant material such as metal, carbon, and nylon. The locking portion 845 may also be formed from plastic or the like, similar to the buckle body 840. The locking portion 845 includes a release piece (release portion) 842 extending downward from the lower surface of the buckle portion 84, and a locking claw 843 formed on the back surface of the release piece 842, protruding into the insertion opening 841. Furthermore, holes are formed approximately in the center of each locking portion 845 through which a rotating shaft pin 847 can be inserted.

[0066] The spring 846 is made of, for example, a general-purpose torsion coil spring, and has a coil-shaped hole formed in its approximate center. The rotating shaft pin 847 is inserted through the holes formed in the mounting portions 844a and 844b, the hole formed in the locking portion 845, and the hole formed in the spring 846, thereby rotatably attaching the locking portion 845 to the buckle body 840 and interposing the spring 846 between the buckle body 840 and the locking portion 844. Due to the elastic force of the interposed spring 846, the release piece 842 is pressed toward the surface of the buckle portion 84, and the locking claw 843 protrudes inward from the insertion opening 841.

[0067] Figure 9 is a side cross-sectional view illustrating the fitting of the buckle portion and the band according to the third embodiment.

[0068] As shown in Figure 9, when the release piece 842 is pressed toward the back of the buckle portion 84, the locking claw 843 moves toward the front of the buckle portion 84, and the insertion opening 841 is opened. While the insertion opening 841 is open, the user inserts the stopper 23 of the band 5a into the insertion opening 841 from the underside of the buckle portion 84, causing a portion of the band 5a to protrude upward from the insertion opening 841.

[0069] The user pulls a portion of the band 5a protruding upward from the insertion opening 841 toward the upward direction of the buckle portion 84, inserting the band 5a into the insertion opening 841 while elastically swinging the locking claw 843 up and down. When the user stops pulling the band 5a, the locking claw 843 engages with the notch 21 at that position. As a result, the user can pull the band 5a further toward the upward direction (insertion direction) of the buckle portion 84, but cannot pull it back toward the downward direction (insertion direction (opposite direction)) of the buckle portion 84 to loosen it.

[0070] Then, when the user stops pulling band 5a at a position where the size of the loop formed by bands 5a and 8b and the device body 6 approximately matches the circumference of the user's wrist, the locking claw 843 engages with the notch 21 at that position, and the buckle portion 84 fits with band 5a. This allows the user to wear the wearable device 4 on their wrist.

[0071] Furthermore, when force is applied to the release piece 842 toward the back surface of the buckle portion 84 and the spring 846 contracts, the locking claw 843 moves toward the front surface of the buckle portion 84, disengaging the locking claw 843 from the notch 21, allowing the user to pull the band 5a back toward the underside of the buckle portion 84 (in the insertion direction (opposite direction)). This allows the user to loosen the bands 5a and 8b and remove the wearable device 4 from their wrist without cutting the bands 5a and 8b.

[0072] As described above, the wearable device 4 according to this embodiment comprises a band 5a made of a poorly absorbent material and provided with a plurality of notches 21, and a buckle portion 84 attached to the band 8b. The buckle portion 84 includes an insertion opening 841 through which the band 5a is inserted, and a locking claw 843 that engages with one of the plurality of notches (engaging portions) 21 provided on the band 5a inserted from the insertion opening 841, allowing movement of the band 5a in the insertion direction while restricting movement in the insertion direction.

[0073] By adopting this configuration, when the user stops pulling the band 2 at a position that roughly matches the circumference of their wrist, the locking claw 843 engages with the notch 21 at that position, allowing the wearable device 4 to be securely attached to the wrist. Furthermore, since the bands 5a and 8b are made of non-absorbent materials such as silicone, urethane resin, carbon, synthetic leather, and genuine leather, which do not easily absorb fluids such as the user's sweat and dirt, rather than fibers such as nylon that absorb sweat, the user can wear the wearable device 4 for extended periods without discomfort.

[0074] As a result, the user can wear the wearable device 4 according to this embodiment in a close and comfortable manner. Furthermore, since the user can continue to wear the wearable device 4 for a long period of time without burden, the device body 3 can be closely attached to the wrist, and various sensors on the back can acquire the user's core body temperature, blood pressure, and other biometric information (vital information) with high accuracy.

[0075] Furthermore, the buckle portion 84 further includes a release piece (release portion) 842 for releasing the engagement between the locking claw 843 and the notch (engagement portion) 21. This makes it economical because the user can loosen the bands 5a and 8b and remove the wearable device 4 from their wrist for reuse without cutting the bands 5a and 8b.

[0076] Furthermore, the buckle portion 84 includes a buckle body 840 including an insertion opening 841, a locking portion 845 including a locking claw 843 and a release piece (release portion) 842, and a spring 846 interposed between the buckle body 840 and the locking portion 844. When force is applied to the release piece (release portion) 842 and the spring 846 contracts, the engagement between the locking claw 843 and the notch (engaging portion) 21 is released.

[0077] Thus, in the wearable device 4 according to this embodiment, the operational durability can be improved by replacing the deformation of the release valve (release part) 842 with that of the spring 846. Furthermore, since the release valve 842 operates independently, the bands 5a and 8b can be loosened without elastic deformation, making it less prone to breakage.

[0078] Furthermore, since the locking portion 845 is formed from wear-resistant materials such as metal, carbon, and nylon, it can be made to last a long time and is economical. [Fourth Embodiment]

[0079] Furthermore, the configuration of the wearable device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that components similar to those in the wearable devices 1 and 4 according to the first to third embodiments described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0080] In this embodiment, the wearable device 4 comprises bands 5a and 10b and a device body 6. Band 10b is made of a poorly absorbent material, similar to bands 2, 5a, 5b, and 8b. Expandable spring pins or the like are embedded at both ends of band 10b in the short direction of band 10b.

[0081] Figure 10 is a side view showing an example of the band configuration according to the fourth embodiment.

[0082] As shown in Figure 10, one end of the band 10b is rotatably attached to the mounting portion 61b via a spring pin 52, while the other end is attached to a buckle portion 104, which is made up of multiple parts, via a spring pin (not shown), similar to the third embodiment described above.

[0083] Figure 11(a) is a surface view showing an example of the buckle configuration according to the fourth embodiment, and Figure 11(b) is a side cross-sectional view showing an example of the buckle configuration according to the fourth embodiment.

[0084] As shown in Figures 11(a) and (b), the buckle portion 104 is composed of multiple parts, such as the buckle body 1040 and the gripping portion 1045.

[0085] The buckle body 1040 is formed from, for example, plastic, as in the first to third embodiments described above. The buckle body 1040 is hollow. The buckle body 1040 is provided with an insertion opening 1041 through which the other end of the band 5a is inserted, a locking claw 1043 formed to protrude inward from the insertion opening 1041, and a mounting portion 1044 for attaching the spring 1046. In this embodiment, the insertion opening 1041 is provided at an angle from the lower surface direction to the upper surface direction of the back surface of the buckle portion 104.

[0086] The gripping portion 1045 is formed from plastic or the like, similar to the buckle body 1040. The gripping portion 1045 is housed in the hollow portion of the buckle body 1040. One end of a spring 1046 is attached to one end of the gripping portion 1045, and a release pin (release portion) 1042 is embedded in the other end in the lateral direction of the gripping portion 1045. The release pin 1042 may be provided on the upper surface, lower surface, upper surface, or back surface of the gripping portion 1045.

[0087] The spring 1046 is made of, for example, a general-purpose compression coil spring, and has a coil-shaped hole formed approximately in its center. By fitting the mounting portion 1044 of the buckle body 1040 into the hole formed at the other end of the spring 1046, the buckle body 1040 is attached to the spring 1046 and connected to the gripping portion 1045 via the spring 1046.

[0088] The release pin 1042 is made of an expandable and contractible spring pin or the like. When the user presses the release pin 1042 from both ends with their fingertips, it contracts, allowing the gripping portion 1045 to move toward the lower surface of the buckle portion 104. When the user releases their fingertips from both ends of the release pin 1042, it extends, and the elastic force of the spring 1046 presses the gripping portion 1045 toward the upper surface of the buckle portion 104.

[0089] Figure 12(a) is a plan view showing the buckle body according to the fourth embodiment when the spring is contracted; Figure 12(b) is a perspective cross-sectional view showing the buckle body and band according to the fourth embodiment when the spring is contracted; Figure 12(c) is a plan view showing the buckle body according to the fourth embodiment when the spring is extended; and Figure 12(d) is a perspective cross-sectional view showing the buckle body and band according to the fourth embodiment when the spring is extended.

[0090] As shown in Figure 12(a), when the user presses the release pin 1042 from both ends with their fingertips and moves it downwards, as shown in Figure 12(b), the spring 1046 contracts and the gripping portion 1045 also moves downwards, and the insertion opening 1041 is opened. While the insertion opening 1041 is open, the user inserts the stopper 23 of the band 5a into the insertion opening 1041 from the downward direction of the surface of the buckle portion 104, causing a part of the band 5a to protrude from the insertion opening 1041 toward the upward direction of the back surface.

[0091] As shown in Figure 12(c), when the user releases their fingertips from both ends of the release pin 1042, the release pin 1042 moves upward due to the elastic force of the spring 1046, and as shown in Figure 12(d), the gripping portion 1045 also moves upward, the insertion opening 1041 is closed, and the band 5a is gripped by the locking claw 1043 and the gripping portion 1045.

[0092] The user pulls a portion of the band 5a, which protrudes from the insertion opening 1041 toward the upper surface of the back surface, toward the upper surface of the back surface of the buckle portion 84, and inserts the band 5a into the insertion opening 1041 while elastically swinging the locking claw 1043 up and down. When the user stops pulling the band 5a, the locking claw 1043 engages with the notch 21 at that position. As a result, the user can pull the band 5a further toward the upper surface of the back surface of the buckle portion 104 (insertion direction), but cannot pull it back toward the lower surface of the buckle portion 104 (insertion direction (opposite direction)) to loosen it.

[0093] Then, when the user stops pulling band 5a at a position where the size of the loop formed by bands 5a and 10b and the device body 6 approximately matches the circumference of the user's wrist, the locking claw 1043 engages with the notch 21 at that position, and the buckle portion 104 fits with band 5a. This allows the user to wear the wearable device 4 on their wrist.

[0094] Furthermore, when the user presses the release pin 1042 from both ends with their fingertips and moves it downwards, the spring 1046 contracts and the gripping portion 1045 also moves downwards, releasing the engagement between the locking claw 1043 and the notch 21, allowing the user to pull the band 5a back towards the downward direction (in the insertion direction (opposite direction)) of the surface of the buckle portion 104. This allows the user to loosen the bands 5a and 10b and remove the wearable device 4 from their wrist without cutting the bands 5a and 10b.

[0095] As described above, the wearable device 4 according to this embodiment comprises a band 5a made of a poorly absorbent material and provided with a plurality of notches 21, and a buckle portion 104 attached to the band 10b. The buckle portion 104 includes an insertion opening 1041 through which the band 5a is inserted, and a locking claw 1043 that engages with one of the plurality of notches (engaging portions) 21 provided on the band 5a inserted from the insertion opening 1041, allowing movement of the band 5a in the insertion direction while restricting movement in the insertion direction.

[0096] By adopting this configuration, when the user stops pulling the band 2 at a position that roughly matches the circumference of their wrist, the locking claw 1043 engages with the notch 21 at that position, allowing the wearable device 4 to be securely attached to the wrist. Furthermore, since the bands 5a and 10b are made of non-absorbent materials such as silicone, urethane resin, carbon, synthetic leather, and genuine leather, rather than fibers such as nylon that absorb sweat, dirt, etc., the user can wear the wearable device 4 for extended periods without discomfort.

[0097] As a result, the user can wear the wearable device 4 according to this embodiment in a close and comfortable manner. Furthermore, since the user can continue to wear the wearable device 4 for a long period of time without burden, the device body 3 can be closely attached to the wrist, and various sensors on the back can acquire the user's core body temperature, blood pressure, and other biometric information (vital information) with high accuracy.

[0098] Furthermore, the buckle portion 104 includes a buckle body 1040 including an insertion opening 1041 and a locking claw 1043, and a gripping portion 1045 connected to the buckle body 1040 via a spring 1046, which grips the band 5a with the buckle body 1040 by the extension force of the spring 1046, thereby engaging the locking claw 1043 with one of the multiple notches 21 provided on the band 5a. The gripping portion 1045 further includes a release pin (release portion) 1042 for releasing the engagement between the locking claw 1043 and the notch 21 by contracting the spring 1046. This makes it economical because the user can loosen the bands 5a and 10b and remove the wearable device 4 from their wrist for reuse without cutting the bands 5a and 10b.

[0099] The gripping portion 1045 may be connected to the buckle body 1040 via a spring 1046, and the contraction force of the spring 1046 grips the band 5a with the buckle body 1040, thereby engaging the locking claw 1043 with one of the multiple notches 21 provided on the band 5a. In this case, the release pin (release portion) 1042 only needs to extend the spring 1046 to release the engagement between the locking claw 1043 and the notch 21.

[0100] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications and applications are possible. The following describes modifications of the above embodiments applicable to the present invention. [Modification 1]

[0101] In the first to fourth embodiments described above, a notch 21 was used as an example of an engaging portion. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the engaging portion can be any one that can engage with the locking claw.

[0102] The configuration of the wearable device according to Modification 1 will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that components similar to those in wearable devices 1 and 4 according to the first to fourth embodiments described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0103] Figure 13 is a surface view showing an example of the band configuration according to Modification 1, and Figure 14 is a side cross-sectional view illustrating the fitting with the band according to Modification 1.

[0104] As shown in Figure 13, band 13, like bands 2, 5a, 5b, 8b, and 10b, is made of a poorly absorbent material, and multiple grooves (engaging portions) 131 are provided on one side at approximately equal intervals along the longitudinal direction, and as shown in Figure 14, a locking claw 543 may engage with the groove 101 at its position. [Modification 2]

[0105] In the second and third embodiments and Modification 1 described above, the buckle portions 54 and 84 were described as having insertion openings 541 and 841 extending from their lower surface to their upper surface. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the position of the insertion openings can be arbitrarily changed.

[0106] The configuration of the wearable device according to Modification 1 will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that components similar to those in wearable devices 1 and 4 according to the first to third embodiments described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0107] Figure 15(a) is a surface view showing an example of the band configuration according to Modification 2, and (b) is a side view showing an example of the band configuration according to Modification 2.

[0108] As shown in Figures 15(a) and (b), one end of the band 15b is rotatably attached to the mounting portion 61b via a spring pin 52, while the other end is attached to a buckle portion 154 via a spring pin (not shown).

[0109] Figure 16(a) is an external perspective view showing an example of the buckle configuration according to Modification 2, and Figure 16(b) is a surface view showing an example of the buckle configuration according to Modification 2.

[0110] As shown in Figures 16(a) and (b), the buckle portion 154 is provided with an insertion opening 1541 through which the other end of the band 5a is inserted, a release piece (release portion) 1542 extending upward from the surface of the buckle portion 154, and a locking claw 1543 formed on the back surface of the release piece 1542 so as to protrude inward from the insertion opening 1541. As in this modified example, the insertion opening 1541 may be provided from the surface to the back surface of the buckle portion 154. [Modified Example 3]

[0111] In the first to fourth embodiments and modifications 1 and 2 described above, the buckle portions 32, 54, 84, 104, and 154 were described as being provided with release portions 322, 542, 842, 1042, and 1542 that release the engagement between the locking claws 323, 543, 843, 1043, and 1543 and the notch 21. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the buckle portions 32, 54, 84, 104, and 154 do not necessarily have release portions 322, 542, 842, 1042, and 1542. In this case, after using the wearable devices 1 and 4, the wearable devices 1 and 4 can be removed by cutting the bands 2, 5a, 5b, 8b, 10b, 13, and 15b with scissors or the like.

[0112] Furthermore, the present invention can be implemented in various forms and modified without departing from the broad spirit and scope of the invention. The above-described embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the scope of the invention.

[0113] 1,4 Wearable device 2,5a,5b,8b,10b,13,15b Band 3,6 Device body (body of the wearable device) 21 Notch (engaging part) 22,52 Spring pin 31,61a,61b,844a,844b Mounting part 32,54,84,104,154 Buckle part 131 Groove (engaging part) 311,312 Fitting hole 321,541,841,1041,1541 Insertion opening 322,542,842,1542 Release piece (release part) 323,543,843,1043,1543 Locking claw 840,1040 Buckle body 845 Locking part 846,1046 Spring 847 Rotating shaft pin 1042 Release pin (release part) 1045 Gripping part

Claims

1. A wearable device (1, 4) comprising: a band (2, 5a, 13) made of a poorly absorbent material and provided with a plurality of engaging portions (21, 131); an insertion opening (321, 541, 841, 1041, 1541) through which the band (2, 5a, 13) is inserted; and a buckle portion (32, 54, 84, 104, 154) that engages with one of the plurality of engaging portions (21, 131) provided on the band (2, 5a, 13) inserted through the insertion opening (321, 541, 841, 1041, 1541), allowing the band (2, 5a, 13) to move in the insertion direction while restricting its movement in the insertion direction.

2. The wearable device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the buckle portion (32) is integrally formed with the main body (3) of the wearable device (1).

3. The wearable device (1, 4) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the buckle portion (32, 54, 84, 154) further includes release portions (322, 542, 842, 1542) for releasing the engagement between the locking claws (323, 543, 843, 1543) and the engaging portion (21, 131).

4. The wearable device (4) according to claim 3, wherein the buckle portion (84) comprises a buckle body (840) including the insertion opening (841), a locking portion (845) including the locking claw (843) and the release portion (842), and a spring (846) interposed between the buckle body (840) and the locking portion (844), and when force is applied to the release portion (842) and the spring (846) contracts, the engagement between the locking claw (843) and the engaging portions (21, 131) is released.

5. The wearable device (4) according to claim 4, characterized in that the locking portion (845) is formed from a wear-resistant material.

6. The wearable device (4) according to claim 1, wherein the buckle portion (104) comprises a buckle body (1040) including the insertion opening (1041) and the locking claw (1043), and a gripping portion (1045) connected to the buckle body (1040) via a spring (1046), which grips the band (5a) with the buckle body (1040) by the extension or contraction force of the spring (1046), thereby engaging the locking claw (1043) with one of the plurality of engaging portions (21, 131) provided on the band (5a), and the gripping portion (1045) includes a release portion (1042) for contracting or extending the spring (1046) to release the engagement between the locking claw (1043) and the engaging portion (21, 131).

Images