Clasp mechanism for wrist-worn devices

US9949537B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Apple Inc. · US

Inventors

• Motohide Hatanaka · Cupertino, US
• Hsiang Hung Chen · Taipei, TW
• Erik L. Wang · Cupertino, US
• Michael J. Webb · Cupertino, US
• Douglas J. Weber · Arcadia, US
• Daniele De Iuliis · San Francisco, US
• Kah Sim Quah · Bukit Mertajam, MY

Key dates

• Filing date: Feb 1, 2016
• Grant date: Apr 24, 2018
• Expiry date: Feb 1, 2036

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A44D2203/00
• WIPO field: Other consumer goods
• WIPO sector: Other fields

Abstract

Clasp assemblies for bands (e.g., for watches) are disclosed. In some embodiments, a clasp assembly may include a plurality of pivotally interconnected links, where respective links are releasably coupled to one another, and spring assemblies disposed between respective links impart biasing forces between the respective links. In some embodiments, a clasp assembly may include a clasp body, a clasp cover, and a connecting arm pivotally coupled to the clasp body at a first end of the connecting arm, and pivotally coupled to the clasp cover at a second end of the connecting arm. The clasp assembly may include springs, magnets, elastomer members, and/or other mechanisms, components, or assemblies that impart a biasing force between the clasp body, the connecting arm, and/or the clasp cover.