Wearable Computing Device

What is this patent about?

’759 is related to the field of wearable electronic devices, specifically those in the form factor of a ring. The background acknowledges that existing wearable devices are often bulky and uncomfortable for extended wear, hindering their effectiveness in continuous monitoring of activity and health metrics. The patent aims to address this by providing a more discreet and comfortable wearable solution.

The underlying idea behind ’759 is to create a compact, finger-worn ring device capable of continuously monitoring a user's physical activity, sleep patterns, and health data. This is achieved by integrating various sensors, a power source, and communication capabilities into a small, ergonomic form factor that can be worn comfortably for extended periods. A key aspect is the use of a curved battery and flexible circuit board to maximize space utilization within the ring's limited volume.

The claims of ’759 focus on a finger-worn wearable ring device comprising a housing with specific interior and exterior width dimensions, a curved battery, a printed circuit board, and one or more sensors. The housing incorporates both external and internal metallic materials, with the internal surface designed for tissue contact. The sensors are configured to monitor physical activity, sleep, or health metrics. Some claims specify light-emitting and light-receiving components for data acquisition, along with a communication module for transmitting data to a user device. Windows in the housing are also claimed to facilitate light emission and reception.

In practice, the ring device would continuously collect data from the user through its sensors. For example, light emitted from LEDs would interact with the user's skin, and the reflected light would be captured by light-receiving components to measure heart rate or blood oxygen levels. This data, along with activity and sleep information gathered from other sensors, would then be transmitted wirelessly to a smartphone or other device for analysis and display. The curved battery ensures sufficient power for continuous operation, while the metallic housing provides durability and a comfortable fit.

The invention differentiates itself from prior approaches by its specific ring form factor and the integration of components within this limited space. Unlike bulkier wrist-worn devices, the ring is designed for unobtrusive, continuous wear. The use of a curved battery and flexible circuit board allows for a higher density of components within the ring, enabling a wider range of sensing capabilities. The metallic housing, combined with transparent potting, provides both structural integrity and allows for optical sensors to function effectively.