Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
The present disclosure relates to modular wearable devices. The present disclosure relates to modular units for modular wearable devices. The present disclosure also relates to methods implemented by the modular wearable devices.
BACKGROUND
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the field of wearable health monitoring devices, driven by an increasing demand for non-invasive and continuous health monitoring solutions. Some existing wearable health monitoring devices (for example, such as wristbands, smartwatches, eyeglasses, and the like) are equipped with various sensors to monitor health parameters of a user.
However, conventional wearable health monitoring devices have certain limitations associated therewith. Firstly, such conventional wearable health monitoring devices can only be used for certain predefined functions which are fixed, therefore a user is unable to use the conventional wearable health monitoring device according to their specific health monitoring needs. Moreover, once a wearable health monitoring device is calibrated for use by the user, re-calibration for its use by another user is infeasible or inaccurate. Secondly, a battery efficiency of existing wearable health monitoring devices is suboptimal and requires frequent recharging, which reduces an overall usability of the conventional wearable health monitoring. Thirdly, the conventional wearable health monitoring device demonstrates excessive power consumption, as data from the conventional wearable health monitoring device is continuously streamed to a user device. Such excessive power consumption hampers an experience of the user and hence requires regular attention to maintain proper functionality of the conventional wearable health monitoring device.
Therefore, in light of the foregoing discussion, there exists a need to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks.
SUMMARY
The present disclosure seeks to provide a modular wearable device. The present disclosure seeks to provide a modular unit for a modular wearable device. The present disclosure also seeks to provide a method implemented by the modular wearable device. An aim of the present disclosure is to provide a solution that overcomes at least partially the problems encountered in prior art.
In a first aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a modular wearable device comprising:
a frame; and
a plurality of modular units that are detachably attached to the frame when the modular wearable device is in use, wherein different modular units are arranged in use on different regions of a body of a user of the modular wearable device, and wherein each modular unit comprises at least one sensor, a communication means, a battery to provide power to the at least one sensor and the communication means,
and wherein one modular unit amongst the plurality of modular units further comprises a processor and a memory arranged therein, wherein the processor is configured to:
receive sensor data from the at least one sensor of each modular unit, via the communication means of each modular unit;
generate aggregate sensor data by collating the sensor data;
store the aggregate sensor data in the memory;
detect occurrence of a data synchronization condition; and
send the aggregate sensor data, from the memory to at least one user device, when the occurrence of the data synchronization condition is detected.
Optionally, the data synchronization condition is one of:
a transition of an operational mode of the modular wearable device, from a sleep mode to an active mode;
elapsing of a first predetermined time period since storage of the aggregate sensor data in the memory;
a dangerous health condition of the user;
a communicative connection of the modular wearable device with the at least one user device being enabled based on an input provided by the user;
a successful reboot of the modular wearable device.
Optionally, at least one modular unit amongst the plurality of modular units further comprises at least one output device, and wherein the processor is further configured to control the at least one output device to provide at least one output signal to the user, wherein the at least one output signal is indicative of at least one of: a reminder to undertake a health-related activity, a recommendation to undertake a health-related activity, an alarm related to a dangerous health condition, the operational mode of the modular wearable device.
Optionally, at least one modular unit amongst the plurality of modular units further comprises at least one input device, and wherein the processor is further configured to receive, via the at least one input device, at least one input provided by the user, wherein the at least one input pertains to at least one of: selecting an operational mode of the modular wearable device, enabling or disabling a communicative connection of the modular wearable device with the at least one user device, enabling reboot of the modular wearable device, a calorific intake of the user, a health-related activity undertaken by the user, receiving or rejecting a communication that is incoming at the at least one user device.
Optionally, the at least one sensor comprises at least one of: a pose-tracking sensor, a temperature sensor, a blood oxygen sensor, a heart rate sensor, an electrocardiogram sensor, a blood pressure sensor, a sleep parameter sensor, a skin response sensor, a bioimpedance sensor, an ultraviolet sensor, an environmental sensor, an ambient light sensor, a location sensor.
Optionally, the frame is made of at least one of: a ferromagnetic material, a paramagnetic material, and wherein at least one magnet is arranged on a side of at least one modular unit amongst the plurality of modular units, the at least one magnet enabling a detachable attachment of the at least one modular unit with the frame.
Optionally, the frame is implemented as at least one of:
a body comprising a plurality of recesses capable of accommodating the plurality of modular units therein;
a tying element capable of one of: passing through the plurality of modular units, attaching with the plurality of modular units via attachment means.
Optionally, the plurality of modular units comprise at least one first modular unit and at least one second modular unit, wherein a type of at least one first sensor of the at least one first modular unit is different from a type of at least one second sensor of the at least one second modular unit, and when the modular wearable device is to be worn around a body part of the body of the user, the frame is designed such that the at least one first modular unit is arranged on a first region of the body part and the at least one second modular unit is arranged on a second region of the body part.
Optionally, a largest dimension of each modular unit amongst the plurality of modular units lies in a range of 10 millimeters to 40 millimeters.
Optionally, the processor is configured according to a configuration setting received at the modular wearable device from the at least one user device, wherein the configuration setting are provided by a user of the at least one user device and pertain to at least one of:
the data synchronization condition to be employed in the modular wearable device;
an operational mode of the modular wearable device;
provision of a reminder to undertake a health-related activity;
provision of a recommendation to undertake a health-related activity;
parameters indicating a dangerous health condition corresponding to which an alarm is to be provided.
Optionally, the modular wearable device is usable by a plurality of users, by adjusting the plurality of modular units that are detachably attached to the frame when the modular wearable device is in use, wherein said adjustment pertains to at least one of:
addition of one or more modular units to the plurality of modular units;
removal of one or more modular units from the plurality of modular units;
changing a position of one or more modular units within the arrangement of the plurality of modular units with the frame;
re-configuring the processor according to different configuration settings for different users.
In a second aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a modular unit for a modular wearable device, the modular unit comprising:
at least one sensor;
a communication means; and
a battery to provide power to the at least one sensor and the communication means,
wherein the modular unit is detachably attached to a frame of the modular wearable device when the modular wearable device is in use, the modular unit being arranged in use on a region of a body of a user of the modular wearable device.
Optionally, the modular unit further comprises a processor and a memory coupled to the processor, wherein the processor is configured to:
receive sensor data from the at least one sensor, via the communication means;
generate aggregate sensor data by collating the sensor data;
store the aggregate sensor data in the memory;
detect occurrence of a data synchronization condition; and
send the aggregate sensor data, from the memory to at least one user device, when the occurrence of the data synchronization condition is detected.
In a third aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a method comprising:
receiving sensor data from at least one sensor of each modular unit amongst a plurality of modular units of a modular wearable device, via a communication means of each modular unit, wherein each modular unit also comprises a battery to provide power to the at least one sensor and the communication means, the plurality of modular units being detachably attached to a frame of the modular wearable device when the modular wearable device is in use, and wherein different modular units are arranged in use on different regions of a body of the user of the modular wearable device;
generating aggregate sensor data by collating the sensor data;
storing the aggregate sensor data in a memory that is arranged in one modular unit amongst the plurality of modular units;
detecting occurrence of a data synchronization condition; and
sending the aggregate sensor data, from the memory to at least one user device, when the occurrence of the data synchronization condition is detected.
Embodiments of the present disclosure substantially eliminate or at least partially address the aforementioned problems in the prior art, and enable the modular wearable device to be modularly configurable based on specific health monitoring needs of the user.
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.
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
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 skilled in the art will understand that the drawings are not to scale. Wherever possible, like elements have been indicated by identical numbers.
Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following diagrams wherein:
FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of an architecture of a modular wearable device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
FIG. 2 illustrates an environment where the modular wearable device of FIG. 1 is in use, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
FIG. 3 illustrates a given modular unit of a modular wearable device of FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
FIGs. 4A, 4B, and 4C illustrate different views of a modular unit amongst a plurality of modular units of a modular wearable device of FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
FIGs. 5A, 5B, and 5C illustrate perspective views of different implementations of a modular wearable device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
FIGs. 6A and 6B illustrate different views of a modular wearable device being worn around a body part of a user, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary user interface of a user device, when a modular wearable device is in use, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
FIG. 8 illustrates a modular unit for a modular wearable device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and
FIG. 9 illustrates steps of a method for processing sensor data of the modular wearable device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
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
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 practising the present disclosure are also possible.
The present disclosure provides a modular wearable device, a modular unit and a method implemented by the modular wearable device. The modular wearable device can be used for monitoring different health parameters as per a requirement of the user, wherein a plurality of modular units comprised in the modular wearable device can be used according to specific health monitoring need(s) of the user. Hence, the modular wearable device provides modular configurability as the plurality of modular units are detachably attached to a frame of the modular wearable device, when in use. Moreover, the modular wearable device yields accurate monitoring of health parameters for different users, wherein the modular wearable device can be repeatedly calibrated for use by the different users. Furthermore, sensor data from at least one sensor comprised in each modular unit amongst the plurality of modular units, is not continuously streamed to at least one user device, thereby demonstrating an efficient power consumption by the modular wearable device. Hence, a battery life of the battery is prolonged and regular attention is not required to maintain a proper functionality of the modular wearable device. The modular wearable device, the modular unit, and the method are simple, robust, fast, reliable, and can be implemented with ease.
Referring to FIG. 1, there is illustrated a block diagram architecture of a modular wearable device 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The modular wearable device 100 comprises a frame 102, and a plurality of modular units (depicted as modular units 104 and 106) that are detachably attached to the frame 102 when the modular wearable device 100 is in use. The different modular units 104 and/or 106 are arranged in use on different regions of a body of a user of the modular wearable device 100. Herein, each modular unit comprises at least one sensor (depicted as a sensor 108a of the modular unit 104, and a sensor 108b of the modular unit 106), a communication means (depicted as a communication means 110a of the modular unit 104, and a communication means 110b of the modular unit 106), a battery (depicted as a battery 112a of the modular unit 104, and a battery 112b of the modular unit 106). In this regard, the battery 112a provides power to the sensor 108a and the communication means 110a of the modular unit 104, and the battery 112b provides power to the sensor 108b and the communication means 110b of the modular unit 106.
Herein, one modular unit 106 amongst the plurality of modular units 104, 106 further comprises a processor 114 and a memory 116 arranged therein. Moreover, the battery 112b also provides power to the processor 114 and the memory 116. The processor 114 is configured to: receive sensor data from the at least one sensor 108a-b, via the communication means 110a-b; generate aggregate sensor data by collating the sensor data; store the aggregate sensor data in the memory 116; detect occurrence of a data synchronization condition; and send the aggregate sensor data, from the memory 116 to at least one user device (as shown in FIG. 2), when the occurrence of the data synchronization condition is detected.
It may be understood by a person skilled in the art that the FIG. 1 includes a simplified architecture of the modular wearable device 100 for sake of clarity, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. It is to be understood that the specific implementation of the modular wearable device 100 is provided as an example, and is not to be construed as limiting it to specific numbers or types of processors and/or data repositories. The person skilled in the art will recognize many variations, alternatives, and modifications of embodiments of the present disclosure.
Referring to FIG. 2, there is illustrated an environment 200 where the modular wearable device 100 of FIG. 1 is in use, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The modular wearable device 100 is communicably coupled to the at least one user device (depicted as a user device 202).
FIG. 2 is merely an example, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. A person skilled in the art will recognize many variations, alternatives, and modifications of embodiments of the present disclosure.
Throughout the present disclosure, the term "modular wearable device" refers to a wearable device that is used for monitoring and/or tracking health metrics of a user for health-monitoring purposes (for example, such as tracking fitness metrics, monitoring a sleep pattern, monitoring activity, and similar), wherein such modular wearable devices are equipped with interchangeable modular units that can be customized and/or upgraded based on a requirement of the user. The modular wearable device 100 can be comfortably worn every day or occasionally by the user, as per requirement. Examples of such modular wearable devices may include, but are not limited to, a modular fitness tracker, a modular smartwatch, a modular sports bracelet, and a modular smart ring.
The modular wearable device 100 comprises the frame 102, which provides mechanical support to the modular wearable device 100. Optionally, the frame 102 can be a frame of: a jewellery item (such as a bracelet, a necklace, a brooch, or headband), a wearable health-tracking device (such as a fitness watch, a fitness patch, and similar), or a wearable healthcare accessory (such as a neck support, an ankle brace, and similar), or similar.
Throughout the present disclosure, the term "modular units" refers to components that are detachably attached, such that each modular unit from amongst the plurality of modular units 104, 106 serve a specific function when monitoring and/or tracking the health metrics of the user. In this regard, the plurality of modular units 104, 106 are attached to the frame 102 in such a manner that they could be easily detached (namely, removed) from the frame 102. Hence, the plurality of modular units 104, 106 could be customized (namely, personalised) for every user, as per requirement. As an example, one modular unit (i.e., any one of: the modular unit 104, the modular unit 106) from amongst the plurality of modular units 104, 106 may be used for monitoring heart rate of the user, while another modular unit (i.e., another one of: the modular unit 106, the modular unit 104) may be used for tracking a sleeping pattern of the user.
Optionally, each of the plurality of modular units 104, 106 may be designed in a variety of shapes, for example, such as a circular shape, an oval shape, a rectangular shape, and the like. Optionally, the plurality of modular units 104, 106 is available in a range of colour options, for example, black colour with a copper coloured ring line, grey colour with black coloured ring line, and rose gold colour with silver ring coloured ring line, solid colours, patterned colours, and similar. This range of colour options enable the user to customize (namely, personalise) the appearance of the modular wearable device 100 according to their preferences. Optionally, each of the plurality of modular units 104, 106 may be splashproof, i.e., is resistant to water damage, which enhances operating function of the modular wearable device 100, even in wet conditions. Optionally, a material used for constructing , each of the plurality of modular units 104, 106 may be a ferromagnetic material, a combination of a plastic material and the ferromagnetic material, and similar.
Beneficially, when the modular wearable device 100 is splashproof, said modular wearable device 100 is provided with a level of protection against accidental water spills, water splashes, and/or light rain.
Moreover, the plurality of modular units 104, 106 of the modular wearable device 100 can be placed on different regions of the body of the user, when the modular wearable device 100 is worn by the user. These different regions refer to specific areas of the body of the user where each of the plurality of modular units 104, 106 are positioned thereat. Examples of such regions may include, but are not limited to, wrist, chest, head, leg, and neck.
The purpose of arranging different modular units on the different regions of the body is to enable the modular wearable device 100 to capture a wide range of health data from various positions on the body, by placing at least one sensor 108a-b in the different regions. Hence, the modular wearable device 100 can gather comprehensive and detailed information about the user's health and activities which can then be used to provide accurate insights and feedback to the user. A technical benefit of arranging the different modular units on the different regions of the body of the user is to collect different types of health-related information from the user, which provides flexibility to the user to use the modular wearable device 100 according to their health requirements and needs.
As another example, the user may use the modular wearable device 100 to measure a skin temperature and a heart rate. Hence, one modular unit (i.e., any one of: the modular unit 104, the modular unit 106) from amongst the plurality of modular units 104, 106 may be arranged on a top portion of a wrist of the user to measure the skin temperature, and another modular unit (i.e., another one of: the modular unit 106, the modular unit 104) may be arranged on a bottom portion of the wrist of the user to determine the heart rate.
Optionally, a largest dimension of each modular unit amongst the plurality of modular units 104, 106 lies in a range of 10 millimeters to 40 millimeters. Herein, the largest dimension of each modular unit amongst the plurality of modular units 104, 106 may lie in a range of 10, 12, 15, 20, or 35 millimetres to 14, 25, 36, 38, or 40 millimetres. In this regard, such dimension of each modular unit enables a compact design of the modular wearable device 100. Hence, the modular wearable device 100 is portable along with being lightweight. In other words, the user can comfortably wear the modular wearable device 100 in a prolonged manner, without said modular wearable device 100 being cumbersome. Furthermore, this compact design allows easier integration of the at least one sensor 108a-b, the battery 110a-b, the communication means 112a-b, and the processor 114 and the memory 116 into each of the plurality of modular units 104, 106 which offers streamlined and efficient operation. A technical benefit of having the dimension of each modular unit lie in such range is that it allows for a balance between size and functionality of the modular wearable device 100, and allows for flexibility in design of said modular wearable device 100. Moreover, other dimensions of each modular unit amongst the plurality of modular units 104, 106 that are not the largest dimension, are also feasible.
It will be appreciated that the processor 114 controls an overall operation of the modular wearable device 100. Throughout the present disclosure, the term "processor" relates to a computational element that is operable to respond to and processes instructions that drive the modular wearable device 100. Furthermore, the term "processor" may refer to one or more individual processors, processing devices, and various elements associated with a processing device that may be shared by other processing devices. Such processors, processing devices and elements may be arranged in various architectures for responding to and executing the steps of the modular wearable device 100.
The at least one sensor 108a-b is communicably coupled to the processor 114, via the communication means 110a-b (as described later), wherein the at least one sensor 108a-b is configured to generate sensor data indicative of an activity and/or a health metric associated with the user wearing the modular wearable device 100. Furthermore, the processor is configured to receive the sensor data from the least one sensor 108a-b and process the sensor data to determine details of the activity, the health metric, of the user. Examples of the activity may include, but are not limited to, walking, running, cycling, resting, sleeping, hiking, trekking, eating, drinking, and the like. Examples of the health metric may include, but are not limited to, heart rate, sleep quality, body composition, number of steps, calorie burnt, blood pressure, and the like.
Optionally, the at least one sensor 108a-b comprises at least one of: a pose-tracking sensor, a temperature sensor, a blood oxygen sensor, a heart rate sensor, an electrocardiogram sensor, a blood pressure sensor, a sleep parameter sensor, a skin response sensor, a bioimpedance sensor, an ultraviolet sensor, an environmental sensor, an ambient light sensor, a location sensor. A technical effect of employing the at least one sensor 108a-b as mentioned above is that a variety of health parameters can be sensed by using a different type of the at least one sensor 108a-b in the modular wearable device 100, when in use. Hence, a range of the different types of the at least one sensor 108a-b that is used in the modular wearable device 100 is customizable based on the preference and/or the requirement of the user.
The pose-tracking sensor detects a pose (i.e., a position and an orientation) of the user in a three-dimensional (3D) space. Herein, the pose-tracking sensor at least one of: monitors the pose of the user, tracks movements of the user, in real time or near-time. Examples of such pose-tracking sensors (i.e., a motion sensor) may include, but are not limited to, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a magnetometer, and an Inertial Measurement unit (IMU) The temperature sensor measures a body temperature of the user throughout the day, which is helpful in knowing an amount of heat dispensed by the body when the user is performing a strenuous activity. The sensor data collected by the temperature sensor could be in a form of a temperature reading, which may be expressed in degrees Celsius (°C) or Fahrenheit (°F). The blood oxygen sensor is used to measure oxygen saturation level in the blood of the user by examining a colour of the blood using relative reflection of infrared light from the blood. Moreover, a percentage of haemoglobin in the blood may also be determined. The sensor data may be expressed as a percentage of oxygen saturation (such as peripheral capillary oxygen saturation (SpO2)).
The heart rate sensor is an optical sensor that is used to measure a number of heart beats per minute (bpm) of the user. Beneficially, the heart rate sensors collect real-time information about the user's heart rate and tracks changes of the heart rate over time. Herein, the heart rate sensor could be used for continuous or on-demand heart rate monitoring while performing any activity. The changes in the heart rate may also indicate underlying health conditions, for example, such as heart disease, hypertension, and arrhythmia. The electrocardiogram sensor (ECG) is used to detect minute electrical impulse sent by the heart during every heartbeat, thereby providing a measure of an electrical activity of the heart. This sensor helps to determine any immediate defect in the heart, such as, for example, a heart murmur. The blood pressure sensor measures a pressure exerted by the blood against walls of arteries of the body, as the heart pumps blood throughout the body. The sensor data collected by the blood pressure sensor is in a form of blood pressure data, which may be measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg). The sleep parameter sensor (namely, a sleep tracking sensor) is used to measure parameters related to sleep patterns and/or sleep quality of the user, wherein such parameters comprises at least one of: a duration of sleep, a sleep ratio, a time spent in different sleep stages (for example, such as a deep sleep stage, a light sleep stage, a rapid eye movement (REM) sleep stage), a number of awakenings within a predetermined time period (wherein the predetermined time period lies in a range of a few minutes to a few hours), a sleeping pattern. The sleep parameter sensor may also detect and diagnose sleep disorders, for example, such as insomnia, restless legs syndrome, and circadian rhythm disorders.
The skin response sensor(namely, a galvanic skin response (GSR) sensor) is an optical sensor which is used to measure an electrical conductance of the user's skin, wherein the electrical conductance is influenced by changes in an activity of the sweat glands. Herein, the sensor data collected by the skin response sensor may include a baseline level of electrical conductance of the skin, the temporary increase in skin conductance in response to a stimulus (for example, such as a stressful event, emotional arousal, and similar). The bioimpedance sensor is used to measure sleep, heart rate, respiration rate, water level, and the like, by delivering a small amount of current to a skin of the userThe ultraviolet sensor measures ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels which helps in monitoring sun exposure to the skin of the user when wearing the modular wearable device 100, thus preventing the user from sunburn and skin damage.
The environmental sensors are devices that are used to measure parameters in a surrounding environment the user, wherein such parameters are used to determine the activity and/or the health metric of the user as said parameters have an impact on a metabolic rate of the user. Herein, the parameters comprise at least two of: an environmental quality, a pollution level, a weather pattern, a climate pattern, a humidity level, a temperature of the environment. Examples of environment sensors may include, but are not limited to a barometer, an altimeter, a humidity sensor, a dust sensor, and a particulate matter sensor. The ambient light sensor measures a level of ambient light in the surroundings of the modular wearable device 100 and adjusts a brightness of a display of the modular wearable device 100 as per availability of said ambient light surrounding said modular wearable device 100. The ambient light sensor is used to automatically change the brightness, thereby saving battery life. The location sensor is used to determine a geographical position of the user wearing the modular wearable device 100 in the 3D space (wherein the 3D space is a real-world environment). In other words, the location sensor gather information regarding a spatial position of the user wearing the modular wearable device 100 relative to a reference point. The sensor data collected using the location sensor comprises at least one of: a latitude, a longitude, an altitude, a speed, a direction, of the user. Moreover, said location sensor is used to at least one of: track the user's movements, calculate distances travelled, provide location-based services (for example, such as mapping, navigation, and activity tracking). Examples of the location sensor may include, but are not limited to, Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), the IMU, and magnetic positioning sensors.
Throughout the present disclosure, the term "communication means" refers to components that enable communication with the plurality of modular units 104, 106, and the at least one user device 202. The communication means (i.e., the communication means 110a of the modular unit 104, and the communication means 110b of the modular unit 106) allows the plurality of modular units 104, 106 to transmit the sensor data acquired from the at least one sensor 108a-b, to the processor 114 within the modular wearable device 100, in real time or in near-real time. Furthermore, the communication means 110a-b, also communicate with the at least one user device 202 for data synchronization and data analysis. Examples of the communication means 110a-b may include, but are not limited to, Bluetooth®, Wireless-Fidelity (Wi-Fi®), cellular networks, Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE®), Ethernet®, and Zigbee®.
In this regard, each modular unit employs its communication means capabilities, to establish connections with external devices or networks capable for receiving sensor data. These connections adhere to designated communication protocols, to facilitate efficient and reliable data exchange between the modular unit and external devices or networks.
The battery 112a-b provides power to the at least one sensor 108a-b, and the communication means 110a-b. Optionally, the battery 112a-b has a predefined capacity (wherein an exemplary predefined capacity lies in a range of 100 milliampere hour (mAH) to 1000 mAH). Moreover, the battery 112a-b is charged in a wireless manner with a predefined charging time (wherein an exemplary predefined charging time may lie in a range of 1 to 3 hours), thereby offering a predefined standby time (wherein an exemplary standby time may be up to 30 days in a standby mode, and up to 7 days in a normal usage mode). Hence, the battery 112a-b ensures long-lasting performance of the modular wearable device 100 for an uninterrupted operation. Herein, the predefined capacity and charging capabilities of the battery 112a-b are optimized to support a functionality the modular wearable device 100, thereby enabling a reliable and an efficient power supply for extended periods of time. Optionally, a largest diameter of the battery 112a-b may lie in a range of 10 millimetres to 30 millimetres. The largest diameter of the battery 112a-b may, for example, lie in a range of 10, 12, 15, or 20 milimetres to 18, 25, 28, or 30 millimetres. Examples of the battery 112a-b may include, but are not limited to, a lithium polymer battery or a coin cell battery (for example, such as a CR2032 coin cell battery).
The processor 114 receives the sensor data from the at least one sensor 108a-b. Herein, the sensor data is in a form of at least one of: a single value, a list a table, a text file, and the like. The sensor data is received by the processor 114 in real time, or in near-real time, when in use. The processor 114 is configured to collect the sensor data continuously, or in a given time interval. Herein, the given time interval may be selected manually, automatically, or a combination of both.
Subsequently, once the sensor data is received, the processor 114 is configured to generate the aggregate sensor data. Herein, the aggregate sensor data is generated by combining the sensor data received from each modular unit from amongst the plurality of modular units 104, 106, where each modular unit collects sensor data independently based on sensor measurements (for example, temperature, heart rate, and the like) taken by the at least one sensor 108a-b. Then the sensor data which was collected individually is summarized and organized into a single dataset, i.e., the aggregate sensor data. The aggregate sensor data can be used to at least one of: provide a holistic view of a behaviour of the user, provide a thorough analysis of a performance of the modular wearable device 100, identify trends or patterns in the sensor data, make an informed decision. A technical effect of generating the aggregate sensor data is that the processor is able to process and analyze large amounts of the sensor data.
Subsequently, the aggregated sensor data is then stored in the memory 116 of the modular wearable device 100. Herein the term "memory", refers to a hardware component and/or a software component that is used to store the aggregate sensor data temporarily and/or permanently, for processing, storing, and retrieving the aggregate sensor data and optionally, instructions necessary for the functional operation of the modular wearable device 100. Examples of the memory 116 may include, but are not limited to, a Random Access Memory (RAM), a flash memory, a database, and a cloud storage. Moreover, the aggregate sensor data could be stored in memory 116 in various formats, such as a database format (i.e., a table format), a binary format, a structured format, and similar.
Subsequently, the modular wearable device 100 continuously monitors for the occurrence of the data synchronization condition. Herein the term "data synchronization condition" refers to a particular event or a particular condition that triggers synchronization of the aggregate sensor data with the at least one user device 202. This data synchronization condition ensures that the aggregate sensor data on both the modular wearable device 100 and the at least one user device 202 is in synchronization and thus up-to-date and consistent. The purpose of detecting the data synchronization condition is to monitor the user's health in real-time or in near-real time, and also ensures that the user of the modular wearable device 100 has access to up-to-date aggregate sensor data.
Optionally, the data synchronization condition is one of:
a transition of an operational mode of the modular wearable device 100, from a sleep mode to an active mode;
elapsing of a first predetermined time period since storage of the aggregate sensor data in the memory 116;
a dangerous health condition of the user;
a communicative connection of the modular wearable device 100 with the at least one user device 202 being enabled based on an input provided by the user;
a successful reboot of the modular wearable device 100.
In this regard, when the modular wearable device 100 transitions from a sleep mode (i.e., a low-power state where only essential functions are active) to an active mode (i.e., an operational state where the modular wearable device 100 is fully operational), the data synchronization condition is triggered, which is then detected by the processor 114. Such transition ensures that modular wearable device 100 starts receiving the sensor data or interact with the at least one user device 202. Herein, the occurrence of the data synchronization condition is detectable based on user input. The user input is provided by the at least one user device 202 associated with the user of the modular wearable device 100. In this regard, when the modular wearable device 100 is in the sleep mode, the modular wearable device 100 continuously captures the sensor data and stores it locally (i.e., in the memory 116 of the modular unit 106) instead of immediately transmitting the sensor data to the at least one user device 202. This allows the modular wearable device 100 to conserve power, as transmitting the sensor data wirelessly consumes more energy than storing the sensor data locally in the memory 116. Subsequently, when the modular wearable device 100 transitions into the active mode, the sensor data that is collected from the at least one sensor 110a-b during the sleep mode generate the aggregate sensor data (as will be described later), which is sent to the at least one user device 202 in one go. Herein, by synchronizing the sensor data to be sent only when the modular wearable device 100 transitions to the active mode from the sleep mode, it is ensured that unnecessary transmissions of the sensor data and/or power consumption during periods of inactivity (for example, such as when the user is sleeping) are minimized, which helps preserve the battery life by ensuring that the power is used efficiently. Thereafter, the modular wearable device 100 could transition back to the sleep mode from the active mode.
Optionally, when there is no transition of the operational mode or user interaction (i.e., the user input), the data synchronization condition is the first predetermined time period which has elapsed since storing the aggregate sensor data in the memory 116. In this regard, regular synchronization based on the first predetermined time period ensures that the aggregate sensor data provided to the at least one user device 202 is current and relevant. Herein the "first predetermined time period " refers to a particular duration of time after which the data synchronization condition is triggered. The first predetermined time period could be pre-defined by a manufacturer of the modular wearable device 100, or and could be defined by the user of the modular wearable device 100. In this regard, the first predetermined time period could be, for example, in terms of hours, days, weeks, and the like. For example, the first predetermined time period could be set to 24 hours, so that once for every 24 hours, the aggregate sensor data is sent to the at least one user device 202. This condition ensures that the aggregate sensor data is synchronized regularly, even if other data synchronization conditions are not met.
Optionally, the sensor data can be synchronised with the at least one user device 202 in response to a health emergency, i.e., the dangerous health condition of the user. Examples of such dangerous health conditions that may be suffered by the user may include, but are not limited to, a sudden drop in the heart rate, a sudden increase in the heart rate, and a spike in a body temperature. Herein, when the data synchronization condition is the dangerous health condition of the user, it ensures that relevant information from the aggregate sensor data is available for immediate access by health professionals and/or emergency services.
Optionally, the communicative connection is established to provide seamless exchange of the aggregate sensor data between the memory 116 of the modular wearable device 100 and the at least one user device 202. Such communicative connection is initiated by the user, thereby beneficially empowering the user to access and manage the aggregate sensor data across different user devices and applications. Moreover, such input provided by the user indicates that said user want to access their sensor data or perform a specific action after receiving the sensor data, such as sharing the sensor data with the medical professional.
Optionally, the modular wearable device 100 is rebooted to resolve any technical issue and/or update the processor of the modular wearable device 100. Hence, the data synchronization condition is the successful reboot which ensures that any changes and/or updates made to the memory 116 of the modular wearable device 100 are reflected in the at least one user device 202.
A technical effect of employing any of the data synchronization condition mentioned above, in the modular wearable device 100 is that it enables in ensuring that the modular wearable device 100 has access to accurate information at appropriate times (such as operational mode switching, device reboot, dangerous health scenarios, or the like), which enhances an experience of the user. Furthermore, the battery life is extended effectively (i.e., from a couple of hours or days up to a couple of weeks or months) as the sensor data is not continuously sent to the at least one user device 202 from the processor 114, which optimizes consumption of power of the battery 112a-b.
When the occurrence of the data synchronization condition is detected, the modular wearable device 100 sends the aggregated sensor data to the at least one user device 202 which allows the user of the modular wearable device 100 to access and review the aggregate sensor data, which is in a form of a health data of the user. This aggregate sensor data is typically displayed in a user-friendly format, such as graphs, charts, and/or tables, depending on a type of the aggregate sensor data and preferences and/or requirements of the user. Optionally, the modular wearable device may also provide options for customizing a display of the aggregate sensor data and accessing said aggregate sensor data. Optionally, the at least one user device 202 is associated with at least one of: the user, a family member of the user, a friend of the user, an acquaintance of the user, a medical practitioner, an emergency response personnel. Examples of the at least one user device 202 may include but are not limited to, smartphones, tablets, desktops.
Optionally, the processor 114 is configured according to a configuration setting received at the modular wearable device 100 from the at least one user device 202, wherein the configuration setting are provided by the user of the at least one user device 202 and pertain to at least one of:
the data synchronization condition to be employed in the modular wearable device 100;
an operational mode of the modular wearable device 100;
provision of a reminder to undertake a health-related activity;
provision of a recommendation to undertake a health-related activity;
parameters indicating a dangerous health condition corresponding to which an alarm is to be provided.
Herein the term "configuration setting" refers to a particular parameter that is used to determine an operation and/or a behaviour of the processor 114 of the modular wearable device 100. The configuration setting is received from the at least one user device 202 which is then used to customize a functionality of the modular wearable device 100 according to their preferences or requirements. Beneficially, providing the configuration setting by the user makes the modular wearable device 100 user-friendly and adaptable to different use case scenarios. Optionally, the configuration setting is provided by the user using an interface of the at least one user device 202.
When the configuration setting provided by the user pertains to the data synchronization condition, it provides information regarding when the data synchronization occurs, for example, such as transitions in the operational mode, elapsed time periods, user-initiated actions, and similar. Such provision of the configuration setting pertaining to the data synchronization condition ensures that the aggregate sensor data is synchronized with the at least one user device 202 at appropriate times, as per requirement of the user. When the configuration setting provided by the user pertains to the operational mode of the modular wearable device 100, the user provides information related to any one of: a type, a duration, a starting time, an ending time, an activity performed, of/during the operational mode. When the configuration setting provided by the user pertains to the provision of the reminder to undertake the health-related activity, the user provides information related to at least one: a type of notification to be generated, a time of the reminder, a type of the reminder, a list of health-related activities. For example, the user may at least one of: set reminders for taking medication, set reminders to drink water at regular intervals throughout the day, set a reminder to exercise at a particular time, set a reminder for taking a walk, and similar.
When the configuration setting provided by the user pertains to the provision of the recommendation to undertake a health-related activity, the user provides a list of health-related activities that may be mapped based on at least one of: a health profile of the user, a preference of the user, historical data health-related activities undertaken by the user, a time. Moreover, the user may set preferences for a type, a duration, and an intensity of exercise that they prefer, and based on their activity levels and goals, the processor 114 of the modular wearable device 100 is configured to recommend particular workouts or activities. As an example, the user may be recommended to take deep breaths at a particular time of the day. As another example, the user may input their dietary preferences, restrictions, and goals, and based on this, the processor 114 of the modular wearable device 100 may be configured to provide recommendations for at least one of: meal planning, nutritional balance, and calorie intake. When the configuration setting provided by the user pertains to the parameters indicating dangerous health conditions, the user may provide predefined threshold and/or predefined criteria for identifying the dangerous health conditions (for example, such as abnormal heart rate, high temperature). Herein, alerts (in a form of SOS) are sent to the medical professionals and/or emergency services to enable prompt intervention and medical assistance when necessary. For example, a user with diabetes may set parameters for monitoring blood glucose levels. When it may be detected that the user's blood glucose levels are too high or too low, an alarm may be generated to alert a doctor on call.
A technical effect of configuring the processor 114 according to the configuration setting in such a manner is that this allows the user to customize the modular wearable device 100, thereby enhancing usability of the modular wearable device 100, as the customization is performed based on individual requirements and priorities of the user.
Optionally, the modular wearable device 100 is usable by a plurality of users, by adjusting the plurality of modular units 104, 106 that are detachably attached to the frame 102 when the modular wearable device 100 is in use, wherein said adjustment pertains to at least one of:
addition of one or more modular units to the plurality of modular units;
removal of one or more modular units from the plurality of modular units;
changing a position of one or more modular units within the arrangement of the plurality of modular units with the frame;
re-configuring the processor according to different configuration settings for different users.
In this regard, the modular wearable device 100 is designed to accommodate the plurality of users, wherein the modular wearable device 100 can be customised based on requirements and/or preferences of each of the plurality of users. Herein, the one or more modular units can be added to the plurality of modular units 104, 106 to enhance a functionality of the modular wearable device 100, as the at least one sensor which is used to collect the sensor data is increased. Moreover, the one or more modular units from the plurality of modular units 104, 106 are removed if certain functionalities are not required or are not met. Furthermore, the position of the one or more modular units within the arrangement of the plurality of modular units may be changed. This change in the position of one or more modular units allows flexibility in configuring the modular wearable device 100 based on user preferences and comfort. Moreover, the processor 116 of the modular wearable device 100 may be re-configured according to different configuration settings for different users which allows each user to personalize their operation, such as setting different data synchronization conditions, health-related recommendations and similar.
A technical effect of adjusting the plurality of modular units 104, 106 in such a manner is that it enhances a versatility, adaptability, and user-friendliness of the modular wearable device 100, by making said modular wearable device 100 easily customizable and adaptable for the plurality of users. Furthermore, the modular wearable device 100 is cost-effective and is a sustainable solution when compared to conventional wearable devices used for health monitoring purposes which are single-person use devices.
For example, the plurality of modular units of the modular wearable device may comprise a pose-tracking sensor and a heart rate sensor. The modular wearable device may be usable by three users, namely, User A, User B, and User C. When the modular wearable device is used by the User A, a modular unit comprising a temperature sensor is added to the modular wearable device. When the modular wearable device that was used by the User A is used by the User B, the modular unit comprising the pose-tracking sensor is removed from the modular wearable device. When the modular wearable device that was used by the User B is used by the User C, the modular unit comprising the heart rate sensor is arranged at a bottom of a wrist and the modular unit comprising a temperature sensor is arranged on a top of the wrist of body of the User C. Herein, the User C may re-configure the processor to synchronize the sensor data received from the heart rate sensor every 15 minutes and set parameters for dangerous health conditions to trigger immediate alerts if detected.
Referring to FIG. 3, there is illustrated a given modular unit 106 of a modular wearable device 100 of FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Herein, the given modular unit 106 optionally at least one input device (depicted as an input device 302), and at least one output device (depicted as an output device 304). The processor 114 is optionally communicably coupled with the input device 302 and the output device 304.
FIG. 3 is merely an example, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. A person skilled in the art will recognize many variations, alternatives, and modifications of embodiments of the present disclosure.
Optionally, the at least one modular unit (for example, such as the modular unit 106) amongst the plurality of modular units 104, 106 further comprises at least one input device 302, and wherein the processor 114 is further configured to receive, via the at least one input device 302, at least one input provided by the user, wherein the at least one input pertains to at least one of: selecting an operational mode of the modular wearable device, enabling or disabling a communicative connection of the modular wearable device 300 with the at least one user device 202, enabling reboot of the modular wearable device 300, a calorific intake of the user, a health-related activity undertaken by the user, receiving or rejecting a communication that is incoming at the at least one user device 202. A technical effect of providing the at least one input using the at least one input device 302 is that it enhances a control of the user over the modular wearable device 100 and allows for personalized interactions, leading to a more user-friendly and efficient user experience. Additionally, the use of the at least one input device 302 enables quick and easy adjustment of settings of the modular wearable device 100, thereby making said modular wearable device 100 adaptable.
In this regard, the at least one modular unit 106 is equipped with the at least one input device 302 to allow users to interact with the modular wearable device 100, wherein such interaction comprises providing at least one of: the at least one input, access feature, to/of the modular wearable device 100. Furthermore, this enables the user to control and customize the modular wearable device 100operation based on the preferences and/or the requirements of the user. Optionally, the at least one input device 302 is at least one of: a button, a slider, a touch sensitive device, a microphone. Optionally, the touch sensitive device is one of: a touchpad, a touchscreen.
In this regard, the user provides the at least one input which is then received by the processor 114, which then allows the modular wearable device 100 to respond to the at least one input. Such response enables real-time interaction and customization of the modular wearable device 100. Herein, the operational mode of the modular wearable device 100 can be selected by using the at least one input device, wherein selecting the operational mode allows the users to customise the behaviour of the modular wearable device 100 based on at least one of: a current activity, the preference, the requirement (for example, such as a battery-saving requirement). Optionally, the user can use the at least one input device to control at least one of: a connectivity, a privacy, a data sharing preference, by enabling or disabling the communicative connection of the modular wearable device 100with the at least one user device 202. Hence, a wireless communication functionality of the modular wearable device 100 is managed by the processor 114 based the at least one input, thus establishing or terminating communicative connections with the at least one user device 202 as required. Optionally, the at least one input pertains to enabling the reboot of the modular wearable device 100, which helps to at least one of resolve technical issues, or reset to the configuration settings, apply software updates. Such rebooting of the modular wearable device 100 enables said modular wearable device 100 to become more reliable and resilient to any technical issues or system errors.
Optionally, the user provides the at least one input pertaining to their calorific intake, which can be used to monitor at least one of: a dietary habit, manage calorific intake, dietary consumption.
Optionally, the user provides the at least one input pertaining to the health-related activity undertaken by the user, to monitor at least one of: an adherence of the user to a health plan which comprises the health-related activity, a progress of the user, a fitness achievement, an overall health achievement.
Optionally, the user can manage incoming communication by allowing users to at least one of: control interruptions, prioritize a task or the health-related activity, maintain focus at the task or the health-related activity at hand. Hence, the at least one input pertains to whether the incoming communication is to be displayed or dismissed, initiating appropriate actions and/or response. Examples of the communication that are incoming to the at least one input device may include, but are not limited to, messages, calls, emails, notifications.
For example, the at least one input device 302 may be a button. A user may any one of: click the button thrice to activate an SOS feature, click the button twice to connect the modular wearable device 100 with the at least one user device 202, long press the button to enable the reboot of the modular wearable device 100.
Optionally, at least one modular unit (for example, such as the modular unit 106) amongst the plurality of modular units (such as 104, 106) further comprises at least one output device 304, and wherein the processor 114 is further configured to control the at least one output device 304 to provide at least one output signal to the user, wherein the at least one output signal is indicative of at least one of: a reminder to undertake a health-related activity, a recommendation to undertake a health-related activity, an alarm related to a dangerous health condition, the operational mode of the modular wearable device 100. A technical effect of providing the at least one output signal using the at least one output device 304 is that an awareness and engagement of the user is enhanced by providing indications to the user via the at least one output device 304, thereby promoting better health monitoring and management.
In this regard, the at least one modular unit 106 is equipped with the at least one output device 304 to convey at least one of: an information, an alert, the notification, a feedback to the user in a tangible or perceptible form. Optionally, the at least one output device 304 is at least one of: a light-emitting device, an audio output device, a haptic device. Optionally, the audio output device 304 is one of: a speaker, a buzzer. The processor 114 is configured to send the at least one output signal to the at least one output device 304 in real time, or in near-real time. Hence, the at least one output device 304 is configured to display at least one of: a visual cue, an auditory alert, a tactile feedback, to the user. Optionally, the at least one output signal is indicative of the reminders prompting the user to engage in the health-related activity, which helps the user to stay on track with their health routine. The at least one output signal is sent based on at least one of: a predefined schedule, the preference of the user, an activity tracking data. Optionally, the at least one output signal is indicative of actionable insights and guidance to optimize the health routine of the user. In this regard, the processor 114 is configured to generate the at least one output signal using algorithms, data analysis techniques, the at least one input. Optionally, the at least one output signal pertains to the alarm when there the dangerous health condition is detected. For example, when the modular wearable device 100 may detect high blood pressure of the user, the at least one output device 304 may generate an alarm to inform the user by vibrating, in order to alert the user, medical professionals and/or emergency services.
Referring to FIGs. 4A, 4B, and 4C, there are illustrated different views of the modular unit 104 amongst the plurality of modular units 104, 106 of a modular wearable device 100 of FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4A shows a back view of the modular unit 104, FIG. 4B shows a front view of the modular unit 104, and FIG. 4C shows a side view of the modular 104, of the modular wearable device 100. In FIG. 4A, at least one magnet (depicted as three magnets 402) is arranged on a back portion 404 of the modular unit 104. A dimension of the back portion 404 of the modular unit 104 may lie in an exemplary range of 15 millimetres to 20 millimetres. A dimension of a front side of the modular unit 104 may lie in an exemplary range of 15 millimetres to 20 millimetres. A dimension of a side portion of the modular unit 104 may lie in an exemplary range of 5 millimetres to 8 millimetres.
FIGs. 4A-C are merely examples, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. A person skilled in the art will recognize many variations, alternatives, and modifications of embodiments of the present disclosure.
Optionally, the frame 102 is made of at least one of: a ferromagnetic material, a paramagnetic material, and wherein at least one magnet 402 is arranged on a side of at least one modular unit 104 amongst the plurality of modular units 104, 106, the at least one magnet enabling a detachable attachment of the at least one modular unit with the frame. A technical effect of arranging the at least one magnet 402 in such a manner is that it provides a convenient way to assemble and disassemble the plurality of modular units 104, 106, allowing users to customize the configuration of the device easily.
In this regard, the at least one of: the ferromagnetic material, the paramagnetic material is chosen to make the frame 102 for their magnetic characteristics, to enable attachment and detachment of the at least one modular unit 104 amongst the plurality of modular units 104, 106 using the at least one magnet 402. Herein, the at least one magnet 402 is provided on the side (namely, an edge) of the at least one modular unit 104 to securely attach each of the plurality of modular units 104, 106 with each other, and the at least one magnet 402 is provided on the back portion 404 of the at least one modular unit 104 to securely attach each of the plurality of modular units 104, 106 to the frame 102. Herein, when the at least one magnet 402 comes in contact with the frame 102, a magnetic attraction is generated to hold the at least one modular unit 104. Notably, the use of at least one magnet 402 for detachable attachment makes it easy for the user to attach and detach different modular units from the frame 102 without a need for tools or complicated mechanisms. Furthermore, the attachment mechanism using the at least one magnet is relatively simple and robust, ensuring that the at least one modular unit 104 stays securely attached to the frame 102 during prolonged use.
Referring to FIGs. 5A, 5B, and 5C, there are illustrated perspective views of different implementations of a modular wearable device 500, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG 5A shows the modular wearable device 500 that is designed in a strap-like structure, FIG. 5B shows the modular wearable device 500 that is designed in a bracelet-like structure, and FIG. 5C shows the modular wearable device 500 that is designed as a combination of the strap-like structure in FIG. 5A and the bracelet-like structure in FIG. 5B. In FIG. 5A, the modular wearable device 500 comprises a frame 502, wherein the frame 502 is implemented as a body comprising a plurality of recesses (depicted as two recesses 504a and 504b) capable of accommodating a plurality of modular units (depicted as modular units 506a and 506b) therein. In FIG. 5B, the modular wearable device 500 comprises the frame 502, wherein the frame 502 is implemented as a tying element 508 capable of one of: passing through the plurality of modular units 506a-b, attaching with the plurality of modular units 506a-b via attachment means. In FIG. 5C, the modular wearable device 500 comprises the frame 502, wherein the frame 502 is implemented as the combination of the body comprising a plurality of recesses 504a-b and the tying element capable of one of: passing through the plurality of modular units 506a-b, attaching with the plurality of modular units 506a-b via attachment means.
FIGs. 5A-C are merely examples, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. A person skilled in the art will recognize many variations, alternatives, and modifications of embodiments of the present disclosure.
Optionally, the frame 502 is implemented as at least one of:
the body comprising a plurality of recesses 504a-b capable of accommodating the plurality of modular units 506a-b therein;
a tying element 508 capable of one of: passing through the plurality of modular units 506a-b , attaching with the plurality of modular units 506a-b via attachment means.
A technical effect of the implementing the frame 502 in such a manner is that it allows for different configurations and arrangements of the plurality of modular units 506a-b based on the preferences and/or the requirements of the user.
In an embodiment, the frame 502 is constructed as a body that contains the plurality of recesses 504. The recesses 504a-b are designed in such a manner so that the plurality of modular units 506a-b fits securely into its corresponding recess 504a-b. This design provides a structured and organized arrangement for each modular units, ensuring they are held firmly in place.
In another embodiment, the frame 502 is implemented as a tying element 508. The tying element 508 serves to hold the plurality of modular units 506a-b together. Furthermore, the tying element 508 may be attached as charms to the frame 502. Examples of the tying element 508 may include, but are not limited to, a thread, a chain, a strap, and a fabric band. Examples of attachment means may include but are not limited to, slip rings, jump rings, clasps, hinged clips, hooks, pop-style attachments, and link connectors.
In another embodiment, the frame 502 may be implemented using the plurality of recesses 504a-b as well as the tying element 508 (as shown in FIG. 5C).
Referring to FIGs. 6A and 6B, there are illustrated different views of a modular wearable device 600 being worn around a body part (depicted for example as a wrist of a left hand) of a user, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In FIG. 6A, the modular wearable device 600 comprises at least one first modular unit (depicted as a first modular unit 602) comprising at least one first sensor (depicted as a first sensor 604a), wherein a frame of the modular wearable device 600 is designed such that the first modular unit 602 is arranged on an outer region of the wrist of the user. In FIG. 6B, the modular wearable device 600 comprises at least one second modular unit (depicted as a second modular unit 606) comprising at least one second sensor (depicted as a second sensor 604b), wherein the frame of the modular wearable device 600 is designed such that the second modular unit 606 is arranged on an inner region of the wrist of the user. Herein, a type of the first sensor 604a is different from a type of the second sensor 604b.
FIGs. 6A-B are merely examples, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. A person skilled in the art will recognize many variations, alternatives, and modifications of embodiments of the present disclosure.
Optionally, the plurality of modular units 602, 606 comprises at least one first modular unit 602 and at least one second modular unit 606, wherein a type of at least one first sensor 604a of the at least one first modular unit 602 is different from a type of at least one second sensor 604b of the at least one second modular unit 606, and when the modular wearable device 600 is to be worn around a body part of the body of the user, the frame is designed such that the at least one first modular unit 602 is arranged on a first region of the body part and the at least one second modular unit 606 is arranged on a second region of the body part.
Herein, any one of: the at least one first sensor 604a, the at least one second sensor 604b is used to collect the sensor data which are vital to the user, and another one of: the at least one second sensor 604b, the at least one first sensor 604a collects the sensor data which are non-vital to the user. In this regard, the at least one first sensor 604a is used to collect the sensor data which are non-vital to the user, and the at least one second sensor 604b is used to collect the sensor data which are vital to the user. Hence, the at least one first sensor 604a is arranged on the first region of the body part, wherein such arrangement can provide the sensor data related to the vital functions of the user. The at least one second sensor 604b is arranged on the second region of the body part, wherein such arrangement can provide the sensor data related to the non-vital functions of the user. Herein, the vital functions are essential bodily functions which are necessary for life, for example, such as the heart rate, the blood oxygen saturation level, blood pressure, and similar. The non-vital functions are those bodily functions that are not necessary for immediate survival of the user but are important for overall health and well-being of the user, for example, such an ambient temperature, a body temperature, sleep patterns, and similar.
In an exemplary scenario, the at least one first sensor 604a may comprise the sleep parameter sensor, the location sensor, the skin response sensor, and similar, and the at least one second sensor 604b may comprise the heart rate sensor, the blood pressure sensor, the blood oxygen sensor, and similar. Furthermore, when the modular wearable device 600 is worn by the user. Herein, the at least one first sensor 604a may collect data related the user's sleep cycle, sleep ratio calorie burn, and similar. Moreover, the at least one second sensor 604b may collect data related to the user's heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and similar.
A technical effect of the arranging the at least one first unit 602 and the at least one second unit 606 in such a manner is that accurate readings can be provided based on a location and/or placement of the at least one first sensor 604a and the at least one second sensor 604b with respect to a particular region of the body part from where the sensor data which is required is easily fetchable and more accurate as compared to other regions of the body part, respectively.
Referring to FIG. 7, there is illustrated an exemplary user interface of a user device 700, when a modular wearable device is in use, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The user interface provides different types of output such as a time of a day, a user name, a location of the user wearing the modular wearable device, a heart rate (for example, such as the user may have the heart rate of 76 beats per minute), a blood pressure (for example, such as the blood pressure of the user may be 120/82), a body temperature (for example, such as the body temperature of the user may be ), an environment temperature, a total number of sleeping hours, number of deep sleep hours in the total number of sleeping hours, and at least one reminder via the user interface. As an example, at 10 am, the user may have the heart rate of 76 beats per minute, the blood pressure of the user may be 120/82, the body temperature of the user may be 98.4 units, the environment temperature may be 30 units, the total number of sleeping hours may be 6 hours 27 minutes, the number of deep sleep hours is 3 hours 14 minutes, a reminder to drink a glass of water after 50 minutes, and another reminder to take a brisk-walk for 30 minutes.
FIG. 7 is merely an example, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. A person skilled in the art will recognize many variations, alternatives, and modifications of embodiments of the present disclosure.
Referring to FIG. 8, there is illustrated a modular unit 802 for a modular wearable device 800, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The modular unit 802 comprises at least one sensor (depicted as a sensor 804), a communication means (depicted as a communication means 806), and a battery 808 to provide power to the at least one sensor 804 and the communication means 806. The modular unit 802 is detachably attached to a frame of the modular wearable device 800 when the modular wearable device 800 is in use, the modular unit 802 is arranged in use on a region of a body of a user of the modular wearable device 800. Optionally, the modular unit 802 further comprises a processor 810 and a memory 812 that is coupled to the processor 810. Moreover, the processor 810 is further communicably coupled with the sensor 804 via the communication means 806. Optionally, the battery 808 also provides power to the processor 810 and the memory 812. Herein, the processor 810 is configured to: receive sensor data from the at least one sensor 804, via the communication means 806; generate aggregate sensor data by collating the sensor data; store the aggregate sensor data in the memory 812; detect occurrence of a data synchronization condition; and send the aggregate sensor data, from the memory 812 to at least one user device (not shown for sake of simplicity), when the occurrence of the data synchronization condition is detected.
The hardware and functionality of the aforementioned modular unit 802 are similar to the plurality of modular units 104 and 106 as described earlier with respect to the first aspect (FIG. 1 and FIG. 2).
Advantageously, the modular unit 802 can be easily stored at an inventory. Moreover, the modular unit 802 are stored or sold according to a type of the at least one sensor 804 used therein. Furthermore, instead of replacing the entire modular wearable device 800 when a particular functionality is lacking in said modular wearable device 800, the user can use or purchase the modular unit 802 having the at least one sensor 804 that is capable of that particular functionality. Hence, the modular wearable device 800 are highly flexible. Beneficially, long term costs of the modular wearable device 800 are low. Additionally, the modular unit 802 is usable by a plurality of users, hence a set of modular units can be customized as per different preferences and/or different requirements of different users. Moreover, different modular units can be placed on different regions of the body to measure different health parameters of the user in an accurate manner. This accuracy is not limited by a placement of the modular unit 802 (or, placements of the different modular units) on the modular wearable device 800.
The present disclosure also relates to the second aspect. Various embodiments and variants disclosed above, with respect to the first aspect, apply mutatis mutandis to the second aspect.
Referring to FIG. 9, illustrated are steps of a method implemented by a modular wearable device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. At step 902, sensor data from at least one sensor of each modular unit amongst a plurality of modular units of a modular wearable device is received, via a communication means of each modular unit. Herein, each modular unit also comprises a battery to provide power to the at least one sensor and the communication means, the plurality of modular units being detachably attached to a frame of the modular wearable device when the modular wearable device is in use. Moreover, different modular units are arranged in use on different regions of a body of the user of the modular wearable device. At step 904, aggregate sensor data is generated by collating the sensor data. At step 906, the aggregate sensor data is stored in a memory that is arranged in one modular unit amongst the plurality of modular units. At step 908, an occurrence of a data synchronization condition is detected. At step 910, the aggregate sensor data is sent, from the memory to at least one user device, when the occurrence of the data synchronization condition is detected.
The aforementioned steps of the method 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. It will be appreciated that the method is easy to implement and provides the simple implementation.
The present disclosure also relates to the third aspect. Various embodiments and variants disclosed above, with respect to the first aspect and the second aspect, apply mutatis mutandis to the third aspect.
Optionally, the data synchronization condition is one of:
a transition of an operational mode of the modular wearable device, from a sleep mode to an active mode;
elapsing of a first predetermined time period since storage of the aggregate sensor data in the memory;
a dangerous health condition of the user;
a communicative connection of the modular wearable device with the at least one user device being enabled based on an input provided by the user;
a successful reboot of the modular wearable device.
Optionally, at least one modular unit amongst the plurality of modular units further comprises at least one output device, and wherein the method further comprises controlling the at least one output device to provide at least one output signal to the user, wherein the at least one output signal is indicative of at least one of: a reminder to undertake a health-related activity, a recommendation to undertake a health-related activity, an alarm related to a dangerous health condition, the operational mode of the modular wearable device.
Optionally, at least one modular unit amongst the plurality of modular units further comprises at least one input device, and wherein the method further comprises receiving, via the at least one input device, at least one input provided by the user, wherein the at least one input pertains to at least one of: selecting an operational mode of the modular wearable device, enabling or disabling a communicative connection of the modular wearable device with the at least one user device, enabling reboot of the modular wearable device, a calorific intake of the user, a health-related activity undertaken by the user, receiving or rejecting a communication that is incoming at the at least one user device.
Optionally, the at least one sensor comprises at least one of: a pose-tracking sensor, a temperature sensor, a blood oxygen sensor, a heart rate sensor, an electrocardiogram sensor, a blood pressure sensor, a sleep parameter sensor, a skin response sensor, a bioimpedance sensor, an ultraviolet sensor, an environmental sensor, an ambient light sensor, a location sensor.
Optionally, the frame is made of at least one of: a ferromagnetic material, a paramagnetic material, and wherein at least one magnet is arranged on a side of at least one modular unit amongst the plurality of modular units, the at least one magnet enabling a detachable attachment of the at least one modular unit with the frame.
Optionally, the frame is implemented as at least one of:
a body comprising a plurality of recesses capable of accommodating the plurality of modular units therein;
a tying element capable of one of: passing through the plurality of modular units, attaching with the plurality of modular units via attachment means.
Optionally, the plurality of modular units comprises at least one first modular unit and at least one second modular unit, wherein a type of at least one first sensor of the at least one first modular unit is different from a type of at least one second sensor of the at least one second modular unit, and when the modular wearable device is to be worn around a body part of the body of the user, the frame is designed such that the at least one first modular unit is arranged on a first region of the body part and the at least one second modular unit is arranged on a second region of the body part.
Optionally, a largest dimension of each modular unit amongst the plurality of modular units lies in a range of 10 millimeters to 40 millimeters.
Optionally, the method comprises configuring according to a configuration setting received at the modular wearable device from the at least one user device, wherein the configuration setting are provided by the user of the at least one user device and pertain to at least one of:
the data synchronization condition to be employed in the modular wearable device;
an operational mode of the modular wearable device;
provision of a reminder to undertake a health-related activity;
provision of a recommendation to undertake a health-related activity;
parameters indicating a dangerous health condition corresponding to which an alarm is to be provided.
Optionally, the modular wearable device is usable by a plurality of users, by adjusting the plurality of modular units that are detachably attached to the frame when the modular wearable device is in use, wherein said adjustment pertains to at least one of:
addition of one or more modular units to the plurality of modular units;
removal of one or more modular units from the plurality of modular units;
changing a position of one or more modular units within the arrangement of the plurality of modular units with the frame;
re-configuring the processor according to different configuration settings for different users.
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. , Claims:What is claimed is:
1. A modular wearable device comprising:
a frame; and
a plurality of modular units that are detachably attached to the frame when the modular wearable device is in use, wherein different modular units are arranged in use on different regions of a body of a user of the modular wearable device, and wherein each modular unit comprises at least one sensor, a communication means, a battery to provide power to the at least one sensor and the communication means,
and wherein one modular unit amongst the plurality of modular units further comprises a processor and a memory arranged therein, wherein the processor is configured to:
receive sensor data from the at least one sensor of each modular unit, via the communication means of each modular unit;
generate aggregate sensor data by collating the sensor data;
store the aggregate sensor data in the memory;
detect occurrence of a data synchronization condition; and
send the aggregate sensor data, from the memory to at least one user device, when the occurrence of the data synchronization condition is detected.
2. The modular wearable device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the data synchronization condition is one of:
a transition of an operational mode of the modular wearable device, from a sleep mode to an active mode;
elapsing of a first predetermined time period since storage of the aggregate sensor data in the memory;
a dangerous health condition of the user;
a communicative connection of the modular wearable device with the at least one user device being enabled based on an input provided by the user;
a successful reboot of the modular wearable device.
3. The modular wearable device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one modular unit amongst the plurality of modular units further comprises at least one output device, and wherein the processor is further configured to control the at least one output device to provide at least one output signal to the user, wherein the at least one output signal is indicative of at least one of: a reminder to undertake a health-related activity, a recommendation to undertake a health-related activity, an alarm related to a dangerous health condition, the operational mode of the modular wearable device.
4. The modular wearable device as claimed in any of claims 1-3, wherein at least one modular unit amongst the plurality of modular units further comprises at least one input device, and wherein the processor is further configured to receive, via the at least one input device, at least one input provided by the user, wherein the at least one input pertains to at least one of: selecting an operational mode of the modular wearable device, enabling or disabling a communicative connection of the modular wearable device with the at least one user device, enabling reboot of the modular wearable device, a calorific intake of the user, a health-related activity undertaken by the user, receiving or rejecting a communication that is incoming at the at least one user device.
5. The modular wearable device as claimed in any of claims 1-4, wherein the at least one sensor comprises at least one of: a pose-tracking sensor, a temperature sensor, a blood oxygen sensor, a heart rate sensor, an electrocardiogram sensor, a blood pressure sensor, a sleep parameter sensor, a skin response sensor, a bioimpedance sensor, an ultraviolet sensor, an environmental sensor, an ambient light sensor, a location sensor.
6. The modular wearable device as claimed in any of claims 1-5, wherein the frame is made of at least one of: a ferromagnetic material, a paramagnetic material, and wherein at least one magnet is arranged on a side of at least one modular unit amongst the plurality of modular units, the at least one magnet enabling a detachable attachment of the at least one modular unit with the frame.
7. The modular wearable device as claimed in any of claims 1-6, wherein the frame is implemented as at least one of:
a body comprising a plurality of recesses capable of accommodating the plurality of modular units therein;
a tying element capable of one of: passing through the plurality of modular units, attaching with the plurality of modular units via attachment means.
8. The modular wearable device as claimed in any of claims 1-7, wherein the plurality of modular units comprises at least one first modular unit and at least one second modular unit, wherein a type of at least one first sensor of the at least one first modular unit is different from a type of at least one second sensor of the at least one second modular unit, and when the modular wearable device is to be worn around a body part of the body of the user, the frame is designed such that the at least one first modular unit is arranged on a first region of the body part and the at least one second modular unit is arranged on a second region of the body part.
9. The modular wearable device as claimed in any of claims 1-8, wherein a largest dimension of each modular unit amongst the plurality of modular units lies in a range of 10 millimeters to 40 millimeters.
10. The modular wearable device as claimed in any of claims 1-9, wherein the processor is configured according to a configuration setting received at the modular wearable device from the at least one user device, wherein the configuration setting are provided by a user of the at least one user device and pertain to at least one of:
the data synchronization condition to be employed in the modular wearable device;
an operational mode of the modular wearable device;
provision of a reminder to undertake a health-related activity;
provision of a recommendation to undertake a health-related activity;
parameters indicating a dangerous health condition corresponding to which an alarm is to be provided.
11. The modular wearable device as claimed in any of claims 1-10, wherein the modular wearable device is usable by a plurality of users, by adjusting the plurality of modular units that are detachably attached to the frame when the modular wearable device is in use, wherein said adjustment pertains to at least one of:
addition of one or more modular units to the plurality of modular units;
removal of one or more modular units from the plurality of modular units;
changing a position of one or more modular units within the arrangement of the plurality of modular units with the frame;
re-configuring the processor according to different configuration settings for different users.
12. A modular unit for a modular wearable device, the modular unit comprising:
at least one sensor;
a communication means; and
a battery to provide power to the at least one sensor and the communication means,
wherein the modular unit is detachably attached to a frame of the modular wearable device when the modular wearable device is in use, the modular unit being arranged in use on a region of a body of a user of the modular wearable device.
13. The modular unit as claimed in claim 12, further comprising a processor and a memory coupled to the processor, wherein the processor is configured to:
receive sensor data from the at least one sensor, via the communication means;
generate aggregate sensor data by collating the sensor data;
store the aggregate sensor data in the memory;
detect occurrence of a data synchronization condition; and
send the aggregate sensor data, from the memory to at least one user device, when the occurrence of the data synchronization condition is detected.
14. A method comprising:
receiving sensor data from at least one sensor of each modular unit amongst a plurality of modular units of a modular wearable device, via a communication means of each modular unit, wherein each modular unit also comprises a battery to provide power to the at least one sensor and the communication means, the plurality of modular units being detachably attached to a frame of the modular wearable device when the modular wearable device is in use, and wherein different modular units are arranged in use on different regions of a body of the user of the modular wearable device;
generating aggregate sensor data by collating the sensor data;
storing the aggregate sensor data in a memory that is arranged in one modular unit amongst the plurality of modular units;
detecting occurrence of a data synchronization condition; and
sending the aggregate sensor data, from the memory to at least one user device, when the occurrence of the data synchronization condition is detected.