TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to an analog wristwatch; and more specifically,
to a smart strap for an analog wristwatch. The disclosure also relates to a system
and a method for controlling a mobile communication device.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Analog or mechanical wristwatches have remained popular even in the digital age because
of their craftsmanship. An analog wristwatch is typically a mechanical device, having
various mechanical components or mechanics, for example, a second hand, a minute hand,
an hour hand and a balance wheel. The mechanics also include additional gears or wheels,
gear connectors, shafts, an escapement assembly, a dial indicating numerals and an
energy source (generally a spiral spring). The mechanics of the analog wristwatch
works in a synchronous manner for indicating a time over the dial with the help of
the second hand, the minute hand and the hour hand.
[0003] An accuracy of the time indicated by such analog wristwatches primarily depends on
the health of the mechanics. Further, since the mechanics are required to function
in a continuous (or non-stop) manner, the mechanics with time may be subjected to
a wear and tear and such wear and tear may result in inaccuracy in time indication
by the analog wristwatches. Generally, such inaccuracy in time indication may not
be noticed by a wearer easily unless such inaccuracy is of a great extent.
[0004] Additionally, the analog wristwatches are configured to merely indicate time and
not to perform any additional function, which may be performed by most of the technically
advanced wristwatches present in the market. Specifically, in today's digital age
wristwatches may be operable to perform multiple functions, associated with an environment
of either or both of the wristwatch and the user. For example, such wristwatches may
be equipped with different kind of sensors for performing such multiple functions.
Accordingly, an analog wristwatch wearer may need to wear an additional device capable
of performing such multiple functions.
[0005] Therefore, in light of the foregoing discussion, there exists a need to overcome
the aforementioned drawbacks of a conventional analog wristwatch.
SUMMARY
[0006] The present disclosure seeks to provide a smart strap for an analog wristwatch.
[0007] The present disclosure also seeks to provide a system for controlling a mobile communication
device with an analog wristwatch attached with a smart strap.
[0008] The present disclosure also seeks to provide a method for controlling a mobile communication
device with an analog wristwatch attached with a smart strap.
[0009] In one aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a smart strap for
an analog wristwatch, attachable to the wristwatch via a pin, comprising:
- an accelerometer, which accelerometer is coupled to the pin via a mechanical coupling,
the mechanical coupling being arranged to convey to the accelerometer
- movement of mechanics of the wristwatch, and
- movement of the wristwatch, when the absolute value of acceleration of the movement
is at least 0.05 G and the duration of the movement is at most 0.5 s
to provide measurement data; and
- communication means configured to communicate the measurement data from the accelerometer
to a mobile communication device.
[0010] In another aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a system for
controlling a mobile communication device, comprising a mobile communication device,
an analog wristwatch and a smart strap for the analog wristwatch, wherein the mobile
communication device is configured to
- receive measurement data communicated by the smart strap,
- analyse the measurement data to identify data from movement of the wristwatch, when
the absolute value of acceleration of the movement is at least 0.05 G and the duration
of the movement is at most 0.5 s,
- categorise the identified measurement data from movement of the wristwatch according
to the nature of the movement to obtain categorised measurement data, and
- use the categorised measurement data to control the mobile communication device.
[0011] In yet another aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a method
for controlling a mobile communication device with an analog wristwatch, the wristwatch
being attached to a smart strap, wherein
- the smart strap
- detects movement of mechanics of the wristwatch and movement of the wristwatch, when
the absolute value of acceleration of the movement is at least 0.05 G and the duration
of the movement is at most 0.5 s, to provide measurement data, and
- communicates the measurement data to a mobile communication device,
- the mobile communication device
- receives measurement data communicated by the smart strap,
- analyses the measurement data to identify data from movement of the wristwatch, when
the absolute value of acceleration of the movement is at least 0.05 G and the duration
of the movement is at most 0.5 s,
- categorises the identified measurement data from movement of the wristwatch according
to the nature of the movement to obtain categorised measurement data, and
- uses the categorised measurement data to control the mobile communication device.
[0012] Embodiments of the present disclosure substantially eliminate or at least partially
address the aforementioned problems in the prior art, and provides a smart strap for
an analog wristwatch such that the analog wristwatch achieves other functionalities
apart from mere time measurement.
[0013] Additional aspects, advantages, features and objects of the present disclosure would
be made apparent from the drawings and the detailed description of the illustrative
embodiments construed in conjunction with the appended claims that follow.
[0014] It will be appreciated that features of the present disclosure are susceptible to
being combined in various combinations without departing from the scope of the present
disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] The summary above, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative
embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings.
For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, exemplary constructions of
the disclosure are shown in the drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited
to specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein. Moreover, those in the
art will understand that the drawings are not to scale. Wherever possible, like elements
have been indicated by identical numbers.
[0016] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only,
with reference to the following diagrams wherein:
- FIG. 1
- is a schematic illustration of a system for controlling a mobile communication device
with an analog wristwatch having a smart strap, in accordance with an embodiment of
the present disclosure;
- FIG. 2
- is a perspective view of an analog wristwatch, in accordance with an embodiment of
the present disclosure;
- FIGS. 3A-B
- are schematic illustrations of an analog wristwatch, in accordance with an embodiment
of the present disclosure;
- FIG. 4
- is a schematic illustration of an analog wristwatch having a smart strap, in accordance
with another embodiment of the present disclosure; and
- FIG. 5
- is an illustration of steps of a method for controlling a mobile communication device
with an analog wristwatch attached to a smart strap, in accordance with another embodiment
of the present disclosure.
[0017] In the accompanying drawings, an underlined number is employed to represent an item
over which the underlined number is positioned or an item to which the underlined
number is adjacent. A non-underlined number relates to an item identified by a line
linking the non-underlined number to the item. When a number is non-underlined and
accompanied by an associated arrow, the non-underlined number is used to identify
a general item at which the arrow is pointing.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0018] The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure
and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the
present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognize that
other embodiments for carrying out or practicing the present disclosure are also possible.
[0019] In one aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a smart strap for
an analog wristwatch, attachable to the wristwatch via a pin. The smart strap comprises
an accelerometer, which accelerometer is coupled to the pin via a mechanical coupling.
The mechanical coupling is arranged to convey to the accelerometer movement of mechanics
of the wristwatch and movement of the wristwatch, when the absolute value of acceleration
of the movement is at least 0.05 G and the duration of the movement is at most 0.5
s, to provide measurement data. The smart strap also comprises communication means
configured to communicate the measurement data from the accelerometer to a mobile
communication device.
[0020] In another aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a system for
controlling a mobile communication device. The system comprises a mobile communication
device, an analog wristwatch and a smart strap for the analog wristwatch. The mobile
communication device is configured to receive measurement data communicated by the
smart strap, analyse the measurement data to identify data from movement of the wristwatch,
when the absolute value of acceleration of the movement is at least 0.05 G and the
duration of the movement is at most 0.5 s, categorise the identified measurement data
from movement of the wristwatch according to the nature of the movement to obtain
categorised measurement data, and use the categorised measurement data to control
the mobile communication device.
[0021] In yet another aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a method
for controlling a mobile communication device with an analog wristwatch. The wristwatch
is attached to a smart strap. The smart strap detects movement of mechanics of the
wristwatch and movement of the wristwatch, when the absolute value of acceleration
of the movement is at least 0.05 G and the duration of the movement is at most 0.5
s, to provide measurement data, and communicates the measurement data to a mobile
communication device. The mobile communication device receives measurement data communicated
by the smart strap; analyses the measurement data to identify data from movement of
the wristwatch, when the absolute value of acceleration of the movement is at least
0.05 G and the duration of the movement is at most 0.5 s; categorises the identified
measurement data from movement of the wristwatch according to the nature of the movement
to obtain categorised measurement data; and uses the categorised measurement data
to control the mobile communication device.
[0022] The present disclosure primarily relates to a smart strap for an analog wristwatch
or an analog wristwatch having such smart strap.
[0023] The analog wristwatch of the present disclosure is a mechanical device having various
mechanical components or mechanics. For example, the mechanics comprise a second hand,
a minute hand, an hour hand and a balance wheel. The mechanics also include additional
gears or wheels, gear connectors, shafts, an escapement assembly, a circular dial
indicating numerals and an energy source (generally a spiral spring). In one embodiment,
the analog wristwatch may include a battery as the energy source. In operation, the
mechanics of the analog wristwatch work in a synchronous manner for indicating the
time over the dial with the help of the second hand, the minute hand and the hour
hand.
[0024] In an embodiment, a body of the smart strap is made of leather or a durable plastic
material. Specifically, the body of the smart strap is made of a material such that
the accelerometer and the communication means can be suitably arranged or housed within
the body of the smart strap. For example, the accelerometer and the communication
means may be sandwiched or arranged with the help of glue inside the body of the smart
strap. Further, the body of the smart strap is made of a material which is flexible
in nature and compatible to human skin.
[0025] The smart strap is attachable to the wristwatch via the pin. Specifically, the smart
strap is adapted to be attached to lugs arranged on a casing or body of the wristwatch.
In an embodiment, the pin may be a spring loaded element adapted to be received by
openings arranged on the lugs. Further, the pin may be removably inserted into the
openings of the lugs for detachably coupling the smart strap with the casing of the
wristwatch.
[0026] As mentioned above, the smart strap comprises an accelerometer. In an embodiment,
the smart strap includes a single accelerometer arranged within the body of the smart
strap. Alternatively, the smart strap may comprise more than one accelerometer, such
as two or three accelerometer arranged on different parts of the body of the smart
strap.
[0027] The accelerometer is coupled to the pin via the mechanical coupling. In an embodiment,
the mechanical coupling is in the form of a structure connected to the pin and into
which structure the accelerometer is inmolded. Specifically, the structure (for example
a flat rectangular piece) is made of a material having sufficient structural integrity
such that the accelerometer may be suitably inmolded within the structure. For example,
the structure may be made of plastic, rubber, metal or any combination thereof. Further,
the structure may be arranged on an end portion of the smart strap, coupled to the
casing of the wristwatch. Specifically, the structure can be arranged (or sandwiched)
at the end portion of the smart strap body by moulding, gluing or stitching the structure
at the end portion.
[0028] In an embodiment, the structure comprises an opening for inserting the pin. Specifically,
the opening may be provided on the structure with the help of a hollow cylindrical
element coupled to the structure. Further, the opening, particularly the hollow cylindrical
element, is arranged at the end portion of the smart strap body such that the pin
can be received through the opening for coupling the smart strap end to the casing
of the wristwatch.
[0029] According to an embodiment, the accelerometer is arranged on the smart strap asymmetrically
with respect to a central axis 'A' of the smart strap. For example, the accelerometer
is inmolded within the structure and away from a central axis of the structure. It
is to be understood that the central axis A of the smart strap is in line with the
central axis of the structure, and the accelerometer is positioned asymmetrically
with respect to such central axis. The asymmetrical arrangement of the accelerometer
on the smart strap enables the accelerometer to efficiently provide data, i.e. to
easily detect movement from a waveform of an acceleration signal. Specifically, the
asymmetrically arranged accelerometer is positioned away from the central axis, and
therefore any movement about the central axis can be efficiently detected by looking
at the amplitude (corresponding to the movement) of the waveform of the acceleration
signal. For example, when the accelerometer is present on the central axis, in such
instance any left or right movement about the central axis may induce a rotational
movement in the accelerometer, which may cause the data calculation challenging for
the microcontroller (as the waveform of the acceleration signal may not include distinct
amplitudes, i.e. peaks or valleys). However, the asymmetrically arranged accelerometer
on the smart strap may induce more vertical movement, with any left or right movement
about the central axis, which can be efficiently detected by looking at the amplitudes
of the waveform of the acceleration signal.
[0030] The mechanical coupling is arranged to convey accelerometer measurement data from
movement of mechanics of the wristwatch, and movement of the wristwatch. In an embodiment,
the movement of the mechanics includes movement of the second hand, the minute hand,
the hour hand and the balance wheel. Specifically, for the accelerometer to sense
such movement of the mechanics, the accelerometer senses minute vibrations (which
causes a 'ticking sound' of the wristwatch) made by the balance wheel. Alternatively,
the movement of the wristwatch may include any movement of the casing of the wristwatch
when a force (such as tap or press) is applied on the casing.
[0031] According to an embodiment, the movement related to the mechanics and/or the movement
of the wristwatch is conveyed to the accelerometer by the mechanical coupling. As
mentioned herein, the structure along with the opening is coupled to the casing of
the wristwatch with the pin, therefore the movements of mechanics and/or the casing
of the wristwatch may be initially conveyed to the pin. Thereafter, the movement is
further conveyed to the opening of the structure to finally reach the accelerometer
(inmolded in the structure). This allows the accelerometer to provide the accelerometer
measurement data, from the movement of the mechanics and/or the wristwatch, conveyed
by the mechanical coupling.
[0032] Further, the accelerometer is arranged to detect data, when the absolute value of
acceleration of the movement is at least 0.05 G and the duration of the movement is
at most 0.5 s (seconds). Specifically, the accelerometer measurement data based on
the movement of the mechanics and/or the wristwatch should be capable of being measured
by the accelerometer. For example, the absolute value of acceleration of the movement
can be 0.05 G and may have duration of 0.5 seconds. Further, the absolute value of
acceleration may include a periodic absolute value, i.e. a predetermined G value occurring
after a predetermined time.
[0033] As mentioned above, the smart strap also includes communication means configured
to communicate the measurement data from the accelerometer to the mobile communication
device. In an embodiment, the mobile communication device may include but is not limited
to smart phones, Mobile Internet Devices (MIDs), tablet computers, Ultra-Mobile Personal
Computers (UMPCs), phablet computers, Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), web pads,
Personal Computers (PCs), handheld PCs, laptop computers and smart televisions. Further,
the communication means may include but not limited to means for communicating using
Bluetooth Low Energy or WiFi.
[0034] In one embodiment, the smart strap is equipped with all necessary electronic components
that facilitate in establishing a communication between the smart strap and the mobile
communication. For example, the smart strap also comprises at least one component
selected from the group consisting of a power source (such as a battery), a microcontroller,
a memory, a communication circuitry and an antenna. The smart strap may also include
output means, which may include but are not limited to a display (for example Eink,
OLED, TFT, and LCD), a vibration element, a speaker and a lighting element.
[0035] In an embodiment, the smart strap also includes at least one sensor different from
the accelerometer, i.e. a further sensor. For example, the at least one sensor different
from the accelerometer is selected from the group consisting of a temperature sensor,
a gyroscope, a heartbeat sensor, a blood oxygen saturation sensor, an ultraviolet
(UV) radiation sensor, an ambient light sensor, a microphone, a magnetic field sensor
and a force sensor. Additionally, the at least one sensor may include, a biometric
sensor, a barometric, an infrared (IR) radiation sensor, a sound pressure level sensor,
a humidity sensor and the like. The plurality of sensors may be configured to sense
additional data associated with an environment of the wristwatch and/or the user.
[0036] In an embodiment, the smart strap is capable of processing the measurement data from
the sensors (for example the measurement data from the accelerometer). For example,
the microcontroller of the smart strap may be configured to process the measurement
data from the sensors. In such instance, those skilled in the art would appreciate
that the microcontroller of the smart strap may be operable to execute various algorithms
for processing the measurement data from the sensors.
[0037] In an embodiment, the measurement data from the accelerometer may be used for determining
an accuracy of the time indicated by the analog wristwatch. Specifically, the accelerometer
senses movement of the mechanics, i.e. the minute vibration signals which causes the
ticking sound of the balance wheel. The ticking sound is repetitive in nature and
in the range of the 4-12 Hertz. In an embodiment, such minute vibration signals (i.e.
ticking sound) may be filtered using for example a Kalman filtering algorithm, which
may be executed in the microcontroller of the smart strap. Further, the microcontroller
of the smart strap is operable to measure the number of the ticking sound made by
the mechanics of the analog wristwatch. Thereafter, the microcontroller may compare
the number of the ticking sound with reading of a quartz based oscillator or a phase-locked
loop clock of the microcontroller. In case there is any variation in the compared
measurement the wearer of the analog wristwatch may be notified about such variation,
which may represent inaccuracy in the time indication by the analog wristwatch. In
an embodiment, such variation may be notified to the wearer using the output means,
such as the display, present on the smart strap.
[0038] According to an embodiment, the mobile communication device is configured to identify
and categorise the measurement data into data from movement of the wristwatch, when
the absolute value of acceleration of the movement is less than 0.05 G or the duration
of the movement is over 0.5 s. According to another embodiment, the absolute value
of acceleration of the movement is less than 0.04 G, or less than 0.03 G or the duration
of the movement is over 0.6 s or over 0.7 s or over 0.8 s or over 0.9 s or over 1
s.
[0039] In another embodiment, the mobile communication device is configured to identify
and categorise the measurement data into data from the mechanics of the wristwatch.
Specifically, the movement of the mechanics (i.e. the minute vibration signals) may
be identified and categorised by the mobile communication device based on the measurement
data from the accelerometer communicated by the smart strap. Thereafter, a vibration
signal filtering algorithm, such as the Kalman filtering algorithm, may be executed
on a processing unit of the mobile communication device for identifying and categorising
the measurement data into data from the mechanics of the wristwatch. Further, the
mobile communication device is also adapted to determine accuracy of the time indicated
by the analog wristwatch, and to notify any inaccuracy related to such time indication
over a display of the mobile communication device.
[0040] In one embodiment, the measurement data from the accelerometer may be used for determining
mechanical shocks experienced by the analog wristwatch. The mechanical shocks are
high acceleration signals, and the accelerometer may detect such high acceleration
signals based on a pre-determined value. For example, the microcontroller of the smart
strap may be configured to notify the user about a mechanical shock when the accelerometer
senses such pre-determined value of the acceleration signals. The mechanical shocks
may include an amplitude of about 10 G in the waveform of the acceleration signal.
[0041] In another embodiment, the smart strap may be used for controlling the mobile communication
device. For example, the mobile communication device is configured to receive measurement
data communicated by the smart strap, and analyse the measurement data to identify
data from movement of the wristwatch. Thereafter, the mobile communication device
is configured to categorise the identified measurement data from movement of the wristwatch
according to the nature of the movement to obtain categorised measurement data and
use the categorised measurement data to control the mobile communication device.
[0042] In an embodiment, the mobile communication device is configured to analyse the measurement
data to identify data from movement of the wristwatch, when the absolute value of
acceleration of the movement is at least 0.05 G and the duration of the movement is
at most 0.5 s. Alternatively, the mobile communication device is configured to identify
and categorise the measurement data into data from movement of the wristwatch, when
the absolute value of acceleration of the movement is less than 0.05 G or the duration
of the movement is over 0.5 s.
[0043] In an embodiment, the categorization of the measurement data into data from movement
of the wristwatch is based on the nature of the movements that wristwatch experiences.
For example, the wristwatch may be moved by tapping on the casing of wristwatch. Further,
such movement of tapping on the wristwatch may differ based on the number of tapping,
such as a single tap or multiple taps (such as two or three taps). Moreover, the movement
of the wristwatch may differ based on tapping done at different areas of the casing.
For example, if a user taps at an area of the casing proximate to the accelerometer
(which is for example inmolded at an end portion of the smart strap), the accelerometer
may initially sense downward movement and thereafter an upward movement. Similarly,
if the user taps at an area away from to the accelerometer, the accelerometer may
initially sense upwards movement and thereafter a downward movement.
[0044] According to another embodiment, the nature of the movement of the wristwatch is
based on pressing the wristwatch. For example, if the user presses continuously for
a short time period in the area proximate to the accelerometer, the accelerometer
may sense a continuous downward movement and thereafter an upward movement. Similarly,
if the user presses continuously for a short time period in the area away from the
accelerometer, the accelerometer may sense a continuous upward movement and thereafter
a downward movement. Additionally, the nature of the movement of the wristwatch is
based on shaking a wrist by the user either gently or moderately. Therefore, based
on such nature of the movements, the accelerometer may sense different absolute value
having 0.05 G and/or 0.5 s.
[0045] In an embodiment, the mobile communication device is configured to categorise such
different nature of the movements (experienced by the wristwatch) using a filtering
algorithm. Specifically, the processing unit of the mobile communication device is
operable to execute such filtering algorithm to identify different measured absolute
value corresponding to the different nature of the movements of the wristwatch. For
example, if the casing of the wristwatch is subjected to a single tap an acceleration
signal may have an amplitude representing over 0.05 G acceleration for a period less
than 0.5 s in a waveform of the acceleration signal. Similarly, if the casing of the
wristwatch is subjected to the multiple taps (at a single area or at different areas)
or long press or shaking, the acceleration signal may have multiple peaks in the waveforms
of the acceleration signal, which may be detected using signal processing algorithms,
respectively.
[0046] In an embodiment, such categorised measurement data is used to control the mobile
communication device. Specifically, based on the different nature of the movements
(experienced by the wristwatch) the mobile communication device may be fed with different
control command. For example, if a user taps continuously at a particular area (proximate
to the accelerometer) on the casing (i.e. at a glass present over the dial) of the
wristwatch, the volume of a mobile communication device (such as a smart phone) may
increase. Similarly, if a user taps continuously at an area (away from the accelerometer)
the volume of the smart phone may decrease. Further, if the user shakes the wrist
gently for a single time an orientation of a display of the smart phone may change.
Additionally, if the user shakes the wrist moderately for multiple times the smart
phone may be turned on or turned off. Therefore, it may be evident to those skilled
in the art that a mobile communication device (such as the smart phone) may be fed
with different control commands based on different absolute values of acceleration
sensed or measured by the accelerometer, and which is further categorised based on
nature of the movement of the wristwatch.
[0047] In an embodiment, the processing (such as analysing and categorization) of the measurement
data from the accelerometer (or other sensors present in the smart strap) is largely
performed on the processing unit of the mobile communication device as compared to
the microcontroller of the smart strap. Alternatively, the processing of the measurement
data from the accelerometer may be performed entirely on the processing unit of the
mobile communication device. Additionally, the processing of the measurement data
from the sensors may be performed entirely on the microcontroller of the smart strap.
[0048] According to an embodiment, the smart strap or the analog wristwatch (having such
smart strap) may be used for various other functions. For example, the categorised
measurement data of the accelerometer may be used for tracking physical movement of
the user. For example, the user may track a time and/or a distance the user has walked
or ran in a day or a week (based on the categorised measurement data of the accelerometer).
[0049] In another embodiment, the smart strap or the analog wristwatch may be used for monitoring
health parameters of the user. For example, the smart strap may be equipped with at
least one health parameter monitoring sensor, such as a heartbeat sensor and a blood
oxygen saturation sensor, for providing health parameters related information to the
user.
[0050] In another embodiment, the smart strap of the analog wristwatch may be used of making
payment at a merchant terminal. Specifically, the smart strap may be equipped with
a Near Field Communication (NFC) antenna and an EMV chip for wireless payments at
the merchant terminal.
[0051] In an embodiment, the analog wristwatch may include a single smart strap attachable
to the casing of the wristwatch. Further, another strap of the analog wristwatch may
be a conventional strap (i.e. non- smart in nature). Alternatively, both straps ofthe
analog wristwatch may be configured to be smart straps.
[0052] In one embodiment, both straps (at least one being smart strap) of the analog wristwatch
are connected to each other with help of a locking means. The locking means may include
a pin arrangement (either made of plastic or metal) coupled to an end portion of one
strap, and a plurality of holes configured on another strap. The pin arrangement may
be adjustably engaged to one hole of the plurality of holes for adjustably securing
the analog wristwatch to a wrist of the wearer.
[0053] The present disclosure provides a smart strap for an analog wristwatch and an analog
wristwatch (having such smart strap), which enables the analog wristwatch to perform
multiple functions, apart from merely measuring the time. For example, the analog
wristwatch (particularly the smart strap) enables monitoring or determining an accuracy
of the time indicated by the analog wristwatch (based on the movement of mechanics
sensed by the smart strap). Further, the smart strap enables determining whether the
analog wristwatch has been subjected to any mechanical shocks (based on the movement
of wristwatch sensed by the smart strap). Moreover, the analog wristwatch enables
controlling a mobile communication device based on nature of the movements experienced
by the wristwatch. Specifically, the analog wristwatch enables controlling or operating
the mobile communication device at application level. This avoids an analog wristwatch
wearer to wear any additional device capable of providing such additional functions.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0054] Referring to FIG. 1, illustrated is a schematic illustration of a system
100 for controlling a mobile communication device
102 with an analog wristwatch
104 having a smart strap
106, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the mobile
communication device
102 is a smart phone. The analog wristwatch
104 also includes a normal strap
108 and a casing
110. The straps
106, 108 are attached to the casing
110 of the analog wristwatch
104. The smart strap
106 includes an accelerometer
112 and a communication means
114 connected to each other by a wire (or a data bus)
116. The accelerometer
112, the communication means
114 and the wire
116 are arranged inside a body
118 of the smart strap
106, and shown with the dotted lines.
[0055] The accelerometer
112 is configured to derive or measure accelerometer measurement data from movement of
mechanics (not shown) of the analog wristwatch
104, and movement of the analog wristwatch
104. The smart strap
106 of the analog wristwatch
104 is configured to communicate with the mobile communication device
102. Specifically, the communication means
114 is configured to establish a communication network
120 between the smart strap
106 and the mobile communication device
102 for communicating the measurement data from the accelerometer
112 to the mobile communication device
102. Based on the measurement data from the accelerometer
112, an accuracy of time indicated by the analog wristwatch
104 is monitored and the mobile communication device
102 is controlled.
[0056] Referring now to FIG. 2, illustrated is a perspective view of an analog wristwatch,
such as the analog wristwatch
104, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the analog
wristwatch
104 includes the smart strap
106, the normal strap
108 and the casing
110. The casing includes at least one control tabs, such as control tabs
202a, 202b, 202c, for controlling the function (particularly, the mechanics) of the analog wristwatch
104. The casing
110 also includes lugs
212, 214 coupled to end portions
216, 218 of the straps
106, 108, respectively, using pins (not shown).
[0057] Further, the straps
106, 108 are shown connected to each other with a locking means
220. The locking means
220 includes a pin arrangement
222 coupled to an end portion
224 of the smart strap
106. The locking means
220 also includes a plurality of holes, such as holes
226a, 226b and
226c, configured on the normal strap
108. The pin arrangement
222 is adjustably engaged to one hole (such as the hole
226b) for adjustably securing the analog wristwatch
104 to a wrist of a wearer. The analog wristwatch
104 also includes at least one loop, such as loops
230a, 230b, arranged on the smart strap
106 for supporting an end portion 232 of the normal strap
108, when the analog wristwatch
104 is worn at the wrist of the wearer.
[0058] Referring now to FIGS. 3A-B, illustrated are schematic illustrations of an analog
wristwatch, such as the analog wristwatch
104, in accordance with an embodiment ofthe present disclosure. Specifically, FIGS. 3A-B
illustrate a side and a top view of the analog wristwatch
104, respectively, for showing attachment of the smart strap
106 with the casing
110, and mechanics
300 of the analog wristwatch
104 housed within the casing
110.
[0059] As shown in FIGS. 3A-B, the smart strap
106 is attached to the casing
110 ofthe analog wristwatch
104 via a pin
302. Further, the accelerometer
112 is coupled to the pin
302 via a mechanical coupling, which is in the form of a structure
304. Specifically, the structure
304 includes an opening
306 through which the pin
302 is inserted for attaching the smart strap
106 with the casing
110. Similarly, another pin
310 is inserted through an opening
312 of the normal strap
108 for attaching the normal strap
108 with the casing
110 of the analog wristwatch
104.
[0060] FIGS. 3A-B further illustrate the mechanics
300 housed within the casing
110 of the analog wristwatch
104. As shown, the mechanics
300 includes a second hand
320, a minute hand
322, an hour hand
324 and a balance wheel
326. The mechanics
300 also includes additional gears or wheels, such as gears
330; and shafts, such as shafts
340, supporting the balance wheel
326 and the gears
330 thereon (shown in FIG. 3A). The mechanics
300 also include gear connectors, such as connectors
350, for transferring motion between the gears
330 (shown in FIG. 3A). The mechanics
300 of the analog wristwatch
104 works in a synchronous manner for indicating a time over a dial
360 with the help of the second hand
320, the minute hand
322 and the hour hand
324. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the mechanics
300 may include various other components, such as a spiral spring, an escapement assembly
and the like, which are not shown in the FIGS. 3A-B.
[0061] Further, FIG. 3B illustrates the accelerometer
112 arranged on the smart strap
106 asymmetrically with respect to a central axis
A of the smart strap
106. The mechanical coupling (i.e. the structure
304 and the opening
306) accordingly is arranged to convey accelerometer measurement data from the movement
of mechanics
300 and the movement of the analog wristwatch
104. Specifically, the movement of the mechanics
300 and the analog wristwatch
104 is initially conveyed to the pin
302 through the casing
110, thereafter the movement is conveyed to the opening
306 of the structure
304 to finally reach the accelerometer
112 (inmolded in the structure
304).
[0062] Referring now to FIG. 4, illustrated is a schematic illustration of an analog wristwatch
400 having a smart strap
402, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the smart
strap
402 includes two accelerometers, such as accelerometers
410, 412. The accelerometers
410, 412 are operatively coupled to each other by a data bus
414. Further, the accelerometers
410, 412 are inmolded into a structure
420. The structure
420 includes an opening
422 through which a pin
424 is inserted for attaching the smart strap
402 with a casing
430 of the analog wristwatch
400. The smart strap
402 also includes an electronic circuit
440
[0063] (embedded with a plurality of electronic components, such as, a microcontroller,
a memory, an antenna, an output means and at least one sensor different from the accelerometer).
The smart strap
402 also includes a power source
442 for providing required electrical power to the electronic circuit
440 and the accelerometers
410, 412. For example, the electronic circuit
440 and the accelerometers
410, 412 are operatively coupled to the power source
442 by data buses
444, 446, respectively. Further, the electronic circuit
440 is operatively coupled to the accelerometers
410, 412 with data buses
450, 452, respectively.
[0064] The casing
430 of the analog wristwatch
400 is further shown to include a glass cover
460 (for a dial, not shown). The glass cover
460 is divided into various segments or areas, such as segments
462, 464, 466 and
468, on which a user can tap to provide different control commands for controlling a mobile
communication device, such as the mobile communication device
102 shown in FIG. 1.
[0065] Referring now to FIG. 5, illustrated are steps of a method
500 for controlling a mobile communication device with an analog wristwatch attached
to a smart strap, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure.
Specifically, the method
500 illustrates the steps of controlling a mobile communication device (such as the mobile
communication device
102) with an analog wristwatch (such as the analog wristwatches
104, 400) attached with a smart strap (such as smart strap
106, 402), explained in conjunction with the FIGS. 1-4.
[0066] At step
502, movement of a wristwatch is detected, when an absolute value of acceleration of the
movement is at least 0.05 G and the duration of the movement is at most 0.5 s.
[0067] At step
504, measurement data is communicated to a mobile communication device.
[0068] At step
506, the measurement data is analysed to identify data from movement of the wristwatch.
[0069] At step
508, the identified measurement data from movement of the wristwatch is categorised according
to the nature of the movement to obtain categorised measurement data.
[0070] At step
510, the categorised measurement data is used to control the mobile communication device.
[0071] The steps
502 to
510 are only illustrative and other alternatives can also be provided where one or more
steps are added, one or more steps are removed, or one or more steps are provided
in a different sequence without departing from the scope of the claims herein. For
example, the method
500 further includes detecting movement of mechanics of the wristwatch, when an absolute
value of acceleration of the movement is at least 0.05 G and the duration of the movement
is at most 0.5 s. Further, the method
500 includes identifying and categorising the measurement data into data from the mechanics
of the wristwatch by one of the smart strap or the mobile communication device.
[0072] Modifications to embodiments of the present disclosure described in the foregoing
are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined
by the accompanying claims. Expressions such as "including", "comprising", "incorporating",
"have", "is" used to describe and claim the present disclosure are intended to be
construed in a non-exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components or elements
not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to
be construed to relate to the plural.
1. A smart strap (106, 402) for an analog wristwatch (104), attachable to the wristwatch
via a pin (302, 424), comprising:
- an accelerometer (112, 410, 412), which accelerometer is coupled to the pin via
a mechanical coupling (304), the mechanical coupling being arranged to convey to the
accelerometer
- movement of mechanics (300) of the wristwatch, and
- movement of the wristwatch, when the absolute value of acceleration of the movement
is at least 0.05 G and the duration of the movement is at most 0.5 s
to provide measurement data; and
- communication means (114) configured to communicate the measurement data from the
accelerometer to a mobile communication device.
2. A smart strap according to claim 1, wherein the mechanical coupling (304) is in the
form of a structure (402) connected to the pin (302, 424) and into which structure
the accelerometer (112, 410, 412) is inmolded.
3. A smart strap according to claim 2, wherein the structure comprises an opening (422)
for inserting the pin.
4. A smart strap according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the accelerometer
(112, 410, 412) is arranged on the smart strap (106, 402) asymmetrically with respect
to a central axis A of the smart strap.
5. A smart strap according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising at least
one component selected from the group consisting of
- a power source (442),
- a microcontroller,
- a memory,
- a communication circuitry,
- an antenna,
- output means, and
- at least one sensor different from the accelerometer.
6. A smart strap according to claim 5, wherein the at least one sensor different from
the accelerometer is selected from the group consisting of a temperature sensor, a
gyroscope, a heartbeat sensor, a blood oxygen saturation sensor, an ultraviolet radiation
sensor, an ambient light sensor, a microphone, a magnetic field sensor and a force
sensor.
7. A smart strap according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the mechanics (300)
of the wristwatch comprise a second hand (320), a minute hand (322), an hour hand
(324) and a balance wheel (326) of the wristwatch.
8. A system for controlling a mobile communication device, comprising a mobile communication
device (102), an analog wristwatch (104) and a smart strap (106, 402) for the analog
wristwatch according to any of the claims 1-7, wherein the mobile communication device
is configured to
- receive measurement data communicated by the smart strap,
- analyse the measurement data to identify data from movement of the wristwatch, when
the absolute value of acceleration of the movement is at least 0.05 G and the duration
of the movement is at most 0.5 s,
- categorise the identified measurement data from movement of the wristwatch according
to the nature of the movement to obtain categorised measurement data, and
- use the categorised measurement data to control the mobile communication device.
9. A system according to claim 8, wherein the mobile communication device (102) is further
configured to identify and categorise the measurement data into data from movement
of the wristwatch (104), when the absolute value of acceleration of the movement is
less than 0.05 G or the duration of the movement is over 0.5 s.
10. A system according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the mobile communication device (102)
is further configured to identify and categorise the measurement data into data from
the mechanics (300) of the wristwatch (104).
11. A method for controlling a mobile communication device with an analog wristwatch,
the wristwatch being attached to a smart strap according to any of the claims 1-7,
wherein
- the smart strap
- detects movement of mechanics of the wristwatch and movement of the wristwatch,
when the absolute value of acceleration of the movement is at least 0.05 G and the
duration of the movement is at most 0.5 s, to provide measurement data, and
- communicates the measurement data to a mobile communication device,
- the mobile communication device
- receives measurement data communicated by the smart strap,
- analyses the measurement data to identify data from movement of the wristwatch,
when the absolute value of acceleration of the movement is at least 0.05 G and the
duration of the movement is at most 0.5 s,
- categorises the identified measurement data from movement of the wristwatch according
to the nature of the movement to obtain categorised measurement data, and
- uses the categorised measurement data to control the mobile communication device.
12. A method according to claim 11, wherein the mobile communication device is further
configured to identify and categorise the measurement data into data from the mechanics
of the wristwatch.