Apple is advancing its efforts to integrate health-monitoring sensors into its wearable products, such as the Apple Watch and Apple Vision Pro, with new patent filings that describe a fabric-based band designed to measure key health metrics.
Apple has been researching non-invasive methods to track the health of Apple Watch users for over five years. In recent developments, the company has been granted a patent for a stretchable fabric band that could potentially conduct health measurements, such as blood pressure and ECG. The patent, first filed in 2019, has now been revisited, with updates included in filings from 2022 and 2020.
The fabric-based band is designed to fit snugly around a user’s body part, such as the wrist or head, using a ring-shaped strip of stretchable material. Embedded within the fabric are strands of circuitry that enable sensors to track vital signs, including electrocardiogram (ECG) readings, blood pressure, and respiration rate.
A significant feature of the patent is its mention of wireless power receiving circuitry. According to Apple’s filing, the fabric band would include coils made of conductive strands, allowing it to wirelessly receive power, potentially eliminating the need for charging cables.
Although the focus appears to be on the Apple Watch, Apple has emphasized that the technology could be applied to a variety of wearable items. This includes bands, hats, shirts, pants, socks, gloves, and other types of clothing—suggesting possible applications for devices beyond the watch, including the recently introduced Apple Vision Pro.
The patent also outlines specific materials like nylon and spandex for the construction of the fabric band. Additionally, it addresses the need for the band to remain functional even after frequent cleaning. Apple has incorporated a solution that would allow the band’s sensors and circuitry to endure regular laundering, with the ability to withstand high temperatures typically associated with machine washing and drying.
However, as with all wearable technology, Apple acknowledges potential reliability concerns. It notes that the fabric-based sensors may face challenges in accurately collecting data or interacting effectively with other devices. In response, the patent describes improvements in design, ensuring that the band would continue to perform effectively under regular use.
This latest patent, which involves seven inventors, echoes previous efforts by Apple to incorporate advanced technology into wearable accessories. Past patents have explored ideas such as concealing batteries within Apple Watch bands and the potential for additional functionality, like extended battery life.
With the continuous evolution of wearable technology, these patents signal Apple’s ongoing commitment to revolutionizing the health-tracking capabilities of its products, making health monitoring more integrated and convenient for users.
Related Topics:
How To Turn Off The Wrist Raise To Wake Feature On Apple Watch
How To Set Up Apple Watch Health Monitoring
Do I Sleep With Apple Watch On
