Securing Device Integrating Circuitry for Wearable Functionality

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Solution Overview

Problem

Wearable devices, such as smartwatches, lack integrated functionality due to limited space and separate components for electronic circuitry and charging, requiring multiple contacts and complex designs.

Innovation Solution

A securing device with integrated electronic circuitry that communicates with a display device, incorporating multiple layers for circuitry, charging, and user interface features, allowing dual use of contacts for charging and communication, and modular design for various functions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If electronic circuitry and charging components are integrated into the display device, then functionality is enhanced, but device complexity and space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the wearable device into two functional segments: the display device (watch face) and the securing device (band). Electronic circuitry, charging contacts, and sensors are relocated to the securing device, separating complex functionality from the simple display unit. This segmentation reduces the display device complexity while maintaining enhanced functionality through the modular securing device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The securing device is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both a structural band and an electronic circuit carrier. The same securing device provides charging functionality through dual-use contacts, health monitoring through integrated sensors, and wireless communication capabilities. This multi-functionality approach enhances overall device capability without increasing display device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate contacts are provided for charging and communication, then functionality is enhanced, but device design becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoiddesign
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dual-use contacts on the display device that serve both charging and communication functions. The same physical contacts are used for power transfer during charging and for data exchange during normal operation. This universal contact design eliminates the need for separate dedicated contacts, reducing design complexity while maintaining enhanced functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If electronic circuitry is integrated into the securing device, then capability is augmented, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovecapabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting electronic circuitry into the securing device rather than integrating it into the display device, the patent enables independent manufacturing of the two components. The securing device can be manufactured with embedded circuitry using standard PCB or flexible circuit techniques, while the display device is manufactured separately. This segmentation simplifies the manufacturing process compared to integrating all electronics into a single complex unit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS11076806B2Securing device for connecting to a display device
Publication Date: 2021.08.03 FITBIT INC
  • US11076806B2 patent drawing
  • US11076806B2 patent drawing
  • US11076806B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A description is provided of a wearable device that is made up of a display device and a securing device that provides at least an overlay portion to provide electrical connection to the display device. The display device and the securing device may both contain electrical circuitry. The overlay connection to the display device can create an electrical connection between the electrical circuitry on the display device and the electrical circuitry in the securing device.