WO2007135389A1

WO2007135389A1 - Method and apparatus for connecting a memory module to a watch strap

Info

Publication number: WO2007135389A1
Application number: PCT/GB2007/001838
Authority: WO
Inventors: Michael Schwertner
Original assignee: Isis Innovation Limited
Priority date: 2006-05-19
Filing date: 2007-05-17
Publication date: 2007-11-29
Also published as: GB0610015D0

Abstract

A watch strap, or similar adornment, having a data storage device (1) or a housing module for receiving a memory card attached thereto such that the connector terminals (2) of the data storage device (1) or housing module can be conveniently exposed without having to remove the device or module from the strap for use.

Description

Method and Apparatus for Connecting a Memory Module to a Watch Strap

This invention relates to a method and apparatus for attaching a memory module to a watch strap or similar elongate fastening means of a body-worn adornment or device so as to conveniently facilitate personal mobile data-storage.

Background of the Invention

There are currently many USB storage devices available, such as USB pen drives and memory sticks. Examples of such devices include USB flash drives, such as the Tiny Micro Vault USB flash drive, made by Sony, which is a relatively very small USB flash drive that comes with a pouch so that it can be attached to a key ring. Other, similar devices exist and will be known to a person skilled in the art. All of such devices tend to be designed to be carried in a user's pocket, on a key ring, around a user's neck, etc, from which carriage location they need to be removed for use. As a result, although such devices are becoming increasingly popular, they can be easily lost and are, therefore, not necessarily always perfectly suitable for personal data storage.

It is also generally known to integrate memory modules and with means for facilitating connectivity to computer interfaces, for example USB, within a watch or similar device or adornment. However, such devices often require external connectors or cables, and/or the aesthetics of the resultant overall design are not always very pleasing.

International Patent Application No. WO2004100059 describes a watch strap comprising a USB port with read-only memory, which is used to connect to a computer. However, because the device is restricted to read-only memory, it is not particularly useful for applications where it is necessary to modify the stored data. Furthermore, the user must remove the USB port from one part of the watch strap for use, which effectively means the mechanism related to the electric USB connector is also used to open and close the strap, which places unnecessary strain on the connector and also prevents the arrangement from being integrated into existing, conventional watch straps. One of the objects of the present invention, therefore, is to improve the integration of a data storage device with a watch strap or the like and to propose a design that enables the electrical connection terminals of the interface to be exposed conveniently without having to remove the device from the strap. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a means for enabling a data storage device to be relatively easily integrated with an existing watch strap or the like.

Currently, more and more small electronic devices, such as mobile phones, PDAs and digital cameras operate with very small memory modules, for example, MicroSD, Tflash or RS-MMC. Accessing the contents of such miniature memory modules on a standard desktop or notebook computer usually requires a special adapter and/or cable which would also need to be carried if the miniature memory module is to be completely portable. Not only can this be relatively inconvenient, but such miniature memory modules can also be difficult to carry because of their tiny size. Thus, it is yet another object of the invention to provide an adapter that can be conveniently integrated with a watch strap or the like, as set out above, that can also be equipped with a memory module slot for receiving miniature memory modules such as those described above so that the contents of such memory modules can be conveniently accessed by means of a standard desktop or notebook computer, or similar device.

Summary of the Invention

In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a housing module for connecting a memory module to the elongate fastening means of a body- worn adornment or device, said fastening means having mutually cooperating portions of a fastening mechanism provided at respective ends thereof, the housing module comprising means for attachment thereof to said fastening means at a location between said mutually cooperating portions of said fastening mechanism, and means for mounting thereon a memory module for movement between a first position, in which said memory module lies substantially flush or in parallel with said fastening means, and a second position in which said memory module remains connected to said housing module and a connector portion thereof is exposed for use. Also, in accordance with the present invention, there is provided a memory module for attachment to the elongate fastening means of a body- worn adornment or device, said fastening means having mutually cooperating portions of a fastening mechanism provided at respective ends thereof, said memory module comprising a connector portion for connection of said memory module to a reader and mounting means for mounting said memory module between said fastening means and one of said mutually cooperating portions of said fastening mechanism, said mounting means being arranged and configured to mount said memory module relative to said fastening means for movement between a first position, in which said memory module lies substantially in line or in parallel with said fastening means, and a second position in which said memory module remains connected to said fastening means and a connector portion thereof is exposed for use.

Also, in accordance with the present invention, there is provided an elongate fastening device for a body- worn adornment or device, said fastening device comprising mutually cooperating portions of a fastening mechanism at respective ends thereof, the fastening device having a memory module mounted or incorporated relative thereto for movement between a first position, in which said memory module lies substantially in line or in parallel with said fastening device, and a second position in which said memory module remains connected to said fastening device and a connector portion thereof is exposed for use.

Still further, in accordance with the present invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a body- worn adornment or device comprising an elongate fastening means having mutually cooperating portions of a fastening mechanism provided at respective ends thereof, the method comprising mounting a housing module according to claim 1 to said fastening means at a location between said mutually cooperating portions of said fastening mechanism, and mounting a memory module to said housing module.

Still further, in accordance with the present invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a body- worn adornment or device comprising an elongate fastening means having mutually cooperating portions of a fastening mechanism provided at respective ends thereof, the method comprising mounting a memory module according to claim 10 to said fastening means at a location between said mutually cooperating portions of said fastening mechanism.

Thus, the present invention enables a small device containing data to be conveniently carried, safely and securely, on the wrist, thereby making it highly suitable for storage of personal data. Another important feature of the present invention is that the design enables integration thereof with existing bracelets or watch straps without compromising or modifying the original mechanism designed for opening and closing of the bracelet or strap required to attach it to the user's wrist.

The housing module preferably defines a recess within which the memory module is located when in the first position, such that the memory module lies substantially flush with the housing module. The housing module is preferably arranged and configured to be pivotally connected at one end to the fastening means, wherein the opposing end of the housing module is arranged and configured for connection to a respective one of the mutually cooperating portions of the fastening mechanism. Preferably, the means for mounting the memory module to the housing module comprises pivotal or slidable mounting means for pivotally or slidably mounting the memory module to the housing module for pivotal or slidable movement relative to the housing module between the first and second positions. In one preferred embodiment, means are preferably provided at one end of the housing module for attachment to the fastening means, substantially in line therewith, with means being provided at an opposing end thereof for connecting one of the mutually cooperating portions of the fastening mechanism thereto.

The memory module may comprise an integrated flash memory device having a USB interface. The memory module may further comprise a slot for receiving a memory card. Alternatively, the memory module may comprise an adapter having a USB interface and comprising a slot for receiving a memory card. In either case, sealing means may be provided for the slot so as to provide a substantially water-tight seal between the slot and the memory card, when in use. Preferably, the memory means of the memory module comprises means for attaching the memory module, adjacent one end thereof, to the fastening means substantially in line therewith, and for attaching one of the mutually cooperative portions of the fastening mechanism adjacent an opposing end of the memory module when in the first configuration.

The memory module may be used to store one or more of personal data that may be relevant in case of an accident or injury, personal signatures, keys, access codes, means of personal identification. The memory module may be accessible and/or reconfigurable for random access mode by a user upon input of a predetermined code or password only.

These and other aspects of the present invention will be apparent from, and elucidated with reference to, the embodiments described herein.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of examples only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a schematic plan view of a memory module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 2 is a schematic plan view of a part of a watch within which a memory module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is incorporated;

Figure 3 a is a schematic plan view of a part of a watch strap within which a memory module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is incorporated, the Figure showing the assembly in a first configuration where the connector is not exposed;

Figure 3b is a schematic perspective view of a part of the watch strap of Figure 3a, the Figure showing the assembly in a second configuration where the connector is exposed for use;

Figure 4a is a schematic plan view of a part of a watch strap within which a memory module according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is incorporated, the Figure showing the assembly in a first configuration where the connector is not exposed;

Figure 4b is a schematic perspective view of the watch strap of Figure 4a, the Figure showing the assembly in a second configuration where the connector is exposed for use;

Figure 5a is a schematic perspective view of a memory module according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 5b is a schematic plan view of the memory module of Figure 5a;

Figure 5 c is a schematic plan view of a modified version of the memory module of

Figure 5a;

Figure 5d is a schematic cross-sectional view of the module of Figure 5a;

Figure 6a is a schematic plan view of a portion of a watch strap having connected thereto a memory module according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 6b is a schematic side view of the watch strap and memory module of Figure 6a;

Figure 6c is a schematic side view of a modified version of the watch strap and memory module of Figure 6a;

Figure 6d is a schematic plan view of the memory module of Figure 6a;

Figure 6e is a schematic side view of the memory module of Figure 6d;

Figures 6f and 6g are schematic plan views of alternative housing modules for the memory module of Figure 6d; Figure 6h is a schematic side view of the memory module of Figure 6d when in a configuration in which the contact terminals of the computer interface are exposed for use;

Figure 6i is a schematic plan view of the memory module of Figure 6d in the open configuration of Figure 6h;

Figures 7a and 7b are respective schematic plan and cross-sectional plan views of a memory module according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 7c is a schematic cross-sectional plan view of the memory module of Figure 7b, in a configuration in which the connector terminals of the computer interface are exposed for use;

Figure 7d is a schematic cross-sectional plan view of the housing module of the embodiment of Figure 7a;

Figure 7e is a schematic end view of the housing module of Figure 7d;

Figures 8 a and 8b are schematic side and perspective views of a memory module according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, respectively in a first configuration in which the connector terminals of the computer interface are not exposed and a second configuration in which the connector terminals of the computer interface are exposed for use;

Figure 9 - second prototype from the website.

Detailed Description of the Invention

In the following, the term 'wrist strap' is used to refer to an element, which can be attached to a person's arm. It is a synonym for a variety of known designs, including bracelets, arm rings, jewellery worn around the wrist and watch straps. It is an object of the present invention to provide a means of electrically connecting small memory modules to a computer system, with the aim of reading and/or modifying data contained in the memory module. These modules may accept or contain memory cards used in mobile phones, PDA's, digital cameras and other similar devices. Currently, the preferred interface standard for data exchange with computers is USB (Universal Serial Bus), but this may change in the future and the present invention includes, but is not necessarily limited, to this interface standard. The benefit of integrating or incorporating a memory module adapter, in accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the invention, into a wrist strap is that small memory modules, which the user may carry within other personal devices, can be read out conveniently without the need to carry an additional cable or separate adapter. In addition, the user can use the memory module adapter, which is integrated to a wrist strap, in order to semipermanently attach a memory module to his wrist and use it for personal data-storage at his convenience. Also, because of the concept of a memory module, the user may own several and swap them according to needs.

Currently, memory modules with USB interface, also referred to as USB pen disk, thumb drive, USB drive or memory stick, are widely used and often replace the former floppy disk as a means to exchange data between computers. They are also useful to store personal information since they are small, portable and they can be password protected. However, as explained above, even though many of them are sold with neck and / or wrist straps, they are easy to lose or misplace. A watch or bracelet is a more personal item and many people are used to wearing such devices or adornments on a daily basis. Thus, in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the invention, there are also huge benefits to incorporating or integrating a memory module with integrated USB interface into a wrist strap of this type. Because the device should be integrated or attached to a wrist strap, it should preferably be as small as possible. For the USB-type computer interface, which is currently widespread, there are two versions of the connector plug currently known. The bigger, more common version comprises a metal housing of the connector end. The smaller type of connector which is currently preferred, is essentially a flat piece of material with contacts on the surface. However, as this type of technology changes, so preferences in relation to the present invention will change, and the present invention is not necessarily intended to be limited in this regard.

Referring to Figure 1 of the drawings, a plain view of a memory module with integrated USB connector is shown. A functional unit 1, which can be a wrist strap segment or a part of a design that can be attached to a wrist strap, comprises an electrical computer interface connector 2, an interface element 3, a number of status indication means 4, interconnecting means 5 and a memory unit 6. The memory unit may contain the memory itself and/or is able to accommodate an external memory module 7, such as a memory card. The electrical computer interface connector 2 is designed such that it fits a standard computer interface, for example the Universal Serial Bus (USB). If the wrist strap is an assembly comprising several elements, such as a chain, the individual components, such as the computer interface connector 2 and the memory unit 6, may be located on different sections of the wrist strap, connected to each other with several sections of interconnecting means 5. The interface element 3 may contain electronic devices such as a storage controller chip, a card reader interface chip and optional a module that allows wireless interfacing to the memory.

The memory module slot is designed such that it accepts small memory modules of one or more standards. For example it could be compatible with the micro SD, Tflash or RSMMC standard. If it is required, the memory unit 6 can be installed permanently within the functional unit 1. This can save space and lead to more compact designs. If so, the function of the interface element 3 and the memory can be contained within the same chip. This may lead to further size and/or cost reduction.

The interface element 3 may contain further electrical and/or electronic components to ensure the proper communication between the memory unit 6 and the host computer interface. The optional status indication means 4 can be used to indicate the status of the module and/or the communication. This indication can refer to one or more of the following: establishment of the connection between computer and memory module, data transmission, activity of the data connection, failure of the communication, failure of the device, memory occupancy and other status information that might be relevant to the user.

Figure 1 of the drawings illustrates the components of the functional units laid out in a planar structure. The present invention includes this design but is not necessarily limited to it. The individual units can also be arranged on top of each other in a stack-like fashion. This can save space. AU the components can be packaged into a small plastic module, which may be sealed.

A second object of the invention is to provide a mechanism that allows simple integration of a module to existing wrist straps as well as accessing the data port integrated within or part of the wrist strap. In effect, the present invention allows the integration of a memory module or memory module adapter into an existing design of jewellery or watch strap without compromising the original mechanism for opening and closing the strap. Therefore, most of the characteristics of the original design can be preserved. This is an important feature, considering that jewellery and watches are not purely functional, but also some kind of fashion statement and some aim to indicate the status of the owner. Therefore a design, which can add the above-mentioned functionality, while minimising the impact on the aesthetics of the original design, is highly desirable.

There are designs known that allow integrating electrical connectors, including means for the connection to a computer, within a watch or wrist strap. As explained above, however, such designs tend to use the buckle or clasp of the bracelet or watch in order to integrate the electrical connector or have some form of wire with connector integrated. Because the buckle or clasp is a central and sometimes complicated element of the overall wrist strap construction, it is not straightforward to modify it without compromising its function. Also the size of the additional components, especially the standard USB-connector, is not satisfactory. For an application within a watch strap a slim version of the connector, which is essentially represented by a set of tongue like contacts on the external side of a module, is preferred (see, for example, the ultra-slim design at usbflash.com). 01838

11

It is an additional key element of the mechanical construction of an exemplary embodiment of the proposed invention, that the memory module and/or memory module adapter functionality may be integrated or attached to existing wrist straps, perhaps by the user or a skilled person. Alternatively, a new strap can be manufactured where the strap components apart from the inventive module are standard components based on a common design.

Referring to Figure 2 of the drawings, a memory module, including an adapter

6 is accommodated on one or more chain links or on a flexible material, representing the wrist strap segment or attachment 1 mentioned above in relation to Figure 1. This whole unit can then be attached to the end of a wrist strap, essentially by removing the last element of the original strap chain and replacing it with the proposed unit. This may involve attaching it to a pin, which is often a part of the common metal-type, chain-like strap designs. In case the strap is made from a different material, for example from plastic or leather, the proposed module may be attached by means of a simple clamping process. This makes it compatible with the standard wrist strap design with a classic buckle. In case of a chain-like structure of the attachment or the use of a flexible material, the shape of the additional module can follow the shape of the wrist, when attached to it. For some strap designs, one end of the strap runs below the other. This end would be the preferred end for mounting the additional device since this can provide a further mechanism that prevents losing the inserted memory module.

Again, it has to be mentioned that the individual components of the module 1 could be stacked on top of each other, leading to a smaller footprint and a more elegant appearance than shown in Figure 2. The ability to accept external memory modules

7 is optional and integrating the memory within unit 6 can make the overall device more compact. If the attachment to the end of the strap is small enough, the attachment may only consist of one single rigid segment, which is still comfortable to wear.

Another exemplary design, which is slightly more elegant and is integrated with the wrist strap is shown in Figure 3 of the drawings. As shown, the feature related to the computer interface is not directly attached to and does not interfere with the original mechanism intended to open and close the bracelet or wrist strap.

The top view in Figure 3 a shows the configuration where the connector is not exposed, Figure 3b shows the corresponding side view of the structure in a configuration where the electric connector, according to one implementation of the invention, is exposed by means of folding the module 8. In the proposed construction, a module 8, containing a number of segments 9, 10a and 10b, is part of a wrist strap 11. The two mechanical interfaces between the module 8 and the wrist strap are denoted by 9b. Mechanical clamping or joints are included in the potential methods to join the module and the wrist strap.

Figure 3 shows a design with 3 chain links but other numbers of chain links are feasible as well. A cover element 12 may be used to protect the connector from moisture, dust and other external influences. The electrical computer interface connector 2 is located on one end of the chain link 9. The unit may be bent at the position indicated with 9a. The mechanism for bending may be implemented via some form of joint, hinge, or by making use of the flexibility of the material. The segments 9, 10a and 10b can be made from a single piece of material, which is thinned in the locations 9a to facilitate bending. When the unit is worn around the wrist, the structure is nearly flat and the connector is mostly contained within the chain-like structure, created by elements 9, 10a and 10b, as shown in Figures 3 a.

When the user wants to use the additional functionality, the wrist strap is removed from the wrist and folded. This action exposes the connector 2, as shown in Figure 3b. In this configuration, after the removal of an optional cover element 12, which can make the connector water resistant and protects it, the connector can be introduced into the matching computer interface. Then the computer may access and / or modify data stored within the memory unit 6.

As shown in Figure 3b, the end of the module 1 opposite to the connector 2 may be exposed by using the same principle of folding. The arrangement shown in Figures 3 a and 3b suggests that the memory unit 6, which may have the ability to accept memory modules 7, is located on the top surface of 1. However, this is not necessarily the case. It may be advantageous to locate the opening of the memory slot 7 at the surface 13, (on the left of Figure 3b) or on the opposite side of the module 1. This design ensures that the memory module cannot be removed or lost from the slot unless the mechanism is folded, e.g. the watch is taken off.

The advantage of the proposed folding structure is that the additional functionality can be easily integrated with existing types of wrist straps. In the case of common metal watch straps this can be accomplished by simply removing one or more existing chain links and replacing them with the proposed structure. For existing leather straps a part can be cut out and the suggested unit may be fitted. This property to fit the proposed device to existing straps is important, since it allows preserving most of the appearance of the original design, and therefore perhaps the identity of a particular brand. Very often, the design of a wrist strap is part of an overall design concept. Exchanging the whole strap would therefore compromise the overall appearance.

In addition, it is required that the memory module 7 is securely fixed in place and may not be lost when the wrist strap is worn. To achieve this, the device may contain a mechanism to lock the memory module 7 within the memory unit 6. This mechanism can be present in addition to any snap-in or other locking mechanism for the memory module 7.

Referring to Figure 4a of the drawings, in another exemplary embodiment of the invention, the USB flash memory module 1 is recessed within a housing module 100. Both the memory module 1 and the housing module 100 are hingedly attached to and end of a watch strap 11. Thus, in more detail, the end of the watch strap 11 has an elongate loop 110 to which the memory module 1 is pivotally connected and the housing module 100 comprises inwardly facing pivot points which slot into each end of the pivotal connection between the watch strap 11 and the memory module 1, such that the housing module 100 is pivotally movable relative to the elongate loop 110 at the end of the watch strap 11 and relative to the memory module 1, about an axis that corresponds to the longitudinal axis of the above-mentioned elongate loop 110. Thus, when it is required to expose the connector terminals of the interface connector 2, the housing module 100 can simply be pivoted relative to the watch strap 11 away from the memory module 1 relative to the watch strap 11 away from the memory module 1, as shown in Figure 4b. In this configuration, the interface connector 2 can be inserted in the USB socket of a standard desktop or note book computer, as illustrated in Figure 4e.

As shown, the buckle 120 of the fastening mechanism for fastening the watch strap 11 around a user's wrist is incorporated with the housing module, in this exemplary embodiment. When the memory module 1 is no longer required for use, the housing module 10 can be pivoted back to the position in which the memory module 1 is located within the recess defined to receive the memory module 1, so that the memory module 1 lies substantially flush therewith, and the buckle 120 can be used to fasten the watch strap 11 to the user's wrist (see Figure 4c). Finally, the end of the watch strap can be slotted through a retaining loop 140 to retain the end of the strap in place, covering the memory module (see Figure 4d).

Yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in Figure 5. An overall view of the basic structure is shown Figure 5 a. Here, the memory module 1 is a very compact and integrated and part of an assembly that can be attached to a wrist strap (not shown). The whole module is not much larger than the connector 2 itself and the interface element 3, which may be a storage controller, the connecting means 5 as well as the memory unit 6, which may be Flash memory, are embedded underneath the computer interface connector 2. This connector consists of thin conducting sections on the surface of the module. The whole unit is very compact, the thickness is preferably in the range between 1.5 to 2.5 mm and the overall footprint is preferably close to 10mm x 12 mm. Also the package can be well sealed and encapsulated, making it waterproof and protecting the internal components. An opening at the side of the device, as illustrated in Figure 5a, is part of the memory unit 6 and represents a slot for the memory module 7. The slot or the surface of the opening may also have means incorporated for sealing to make the overall module waterproof. The slot 14 is optional. Other additional optional feature are the cylindrical structures 17, accommodated on the surface of the module, which can be part of a joint or hinge mechanism of the overall assembly. A plan view of the device is shown in Figure 5b. For the purpose of sealing the overall assembly, the layout of the connecting terminals of the computer interface 2 can be designed such that they do not extend to the edge of the module on at least one side of the module. Furthermore, the track 15, which fully encloses the interface terminals of the connector 2 runs on a flat surface. This facilitates sealing of the contacts.

In another implementation of the sealing, all the surfaces along a closed track 16 are flat surfaces. This track 16 runs around the module and is a planar track, as shown in plan view of the module, Figure 5c.

The overall module depicted in Figure 5 a may have deviations from the shape of a cuboid on its surface. This includes common shapes or mechanical elements such as indentations, convexities, rails, slides, springs or pins or hinge elements. These elements may be attached on the surface or be part of the housing of the unit 1. They are part of the overall assembly that can be attached or part of a wrist strip. In Figure 5d a cross section of the module is shown, viewed from the top. Here the interface element 3, the connection means 5 as well as the memory unit 6 are visible. The interface element 3 is connected to the computer interface connector 2, which is located above the plane depicted in Figure 5d.

Surfaces of the module 1 or of the overall assembly that are exposed to the user, may carry decorative or informative elements, such as printed ornaments, logos or contact information.

In the following, several implementations of the invention, based on the basic configuration shown in Figure 5a, are disclosed. As mentioned the shape of the surface of the module can be engineered, especially to provide further mechanical functions, for example to interact with other parts of the overall assembly.

Still another implementation of the invention is shown in Figure 6. Here the module 1 as shown in Figure 4a can be rotated around an axis defined by the elements 17, which are part of a joint or hinge mechanism within an assembly. Figure 6a shows the top view of the overall assembly, containing the module 1, suspended by means of the elements 17. The elements 17 have mechanical contact to the housing module 18. An additional optional locking mechanism 19 may be in place, to prevent the module 1 from tilting while worn on the wrist. In the top view of Figure 6a, the contacts of the computer interface 2 face downwards. The top surface of module can contain ornaments, engravings, prints or a logo. The housing module or the module 1 may contain a mechanism, comprising a spring, that allows the module 1 to flip out automatically, when released by mechanism 19.

The housing module 18 or 21 can be integrated within a wrist strap, as shown in the side view, Figure 6b, or it can be attached to an existing strap as an add-on module, depicted in the side view, Figure 6c. An additional sealing mechanism 20, for example an O-ring, can be incorporated into the base plate of the housing module 18. This sealing mechanism protects the contact terminals, can make the device waterproof and preferably has mechanical contact to the module 1 along the track 15 indicated in Figure 5b.

A top view of the housing element 18 is shown in Figure 6d, where the module 1 has been removed. Here the optional sealing element 20 is visible, which can have mechanical contact to 1 along the track 15 defined in Figure 5b.

The contacts of the computer interface 2 may face upwards or downwards. In addition to that, in a slightly modified design of module 1, they may be present on both sides of the module 1.

The design of the housing element can be modified. For example, the housing module 18, which is shown in Figures 6a, 6b, 6c and 6d, can be replaced with a different design.

For example, a modified housing module design 21 has no bottom plate and is depicted in Figures 6e (top view with module 1 in place), Figure 6f (side view, without module 1 in place) and Figure 6g (top view, without module 1 in place). Essentially, the housing module 21 is a U-shaped element. Another mechanism 22 can be used to hold the module in place, preventing a rotation around the axis defined by the elements 17. Alternatively, the same mechanical function can be implemented within the joint or hinge mechanisms of the housing modules 18 or 21.

In the configuration using the housing element 21, the connectors 2 may be protected by using a cover 12, as mentioned earlier on. The introduction of the cover may require slight changes of the housing module 21. The advantage of this overall assembly, using a housing without bottom plate, is that it can be very slim. It can be integrated within a wrist strap or attached to it similar to module 18 in Figures 6b and 6c.

When the user wants to interface the module 1 with a computer, a rotation around the axis defined by elements 17 exposes the contact terminals of the computer interface 2. This configuration is shown in Figures 6h (side view) and 6i (top view) for the example of housing module 21. The equivalent configuration can be implemented using housing module 18.

Again, folding the wrist strap the assembly is attached to or integrated with, makes the contact terminals of the computer interface 2 more accessible.

Throughout the description and Figures, the connector layout was illustrated, by way of example, as a USB interface. This interface standard is intended to be covered by the invention but the invention is not necessarily intended to be limited to this standard or a particular connector layout.

The design of the housing element can be modified. For example, the housing module 18, which is shown in Figures 6a, 6b, 6c and 6d, can be replaced with a different design 23, for exampled as shown in Figure 7. Here the module 1 slides within the housing element 23. Figure 7a shows the top view of the outside of the housing module 23. A top view of its cross section is shown in Figure 7b. A spring element 24, which can be a part of either 23 or 1, also resides within the housing.

The user may expose the connectors 2 by pushing the module 1, which causes module 1 first to release and then slide to the left by means of the force provided by spring 24. The mechanism and operation is similar to the click-and release mechanism found in common pens. Figure 7c shows the top view of the configuration where the module 1 did slide out and the connectors are exposed. The elements 17 prevent the module 1 from leaving the housing module 23 but other designs are feasible which allow to fully release or replace module 1. A sealing mechanism, preferably using an O-ring 25, can be incorporated into the housing module 23.

Figure 7d shows a top view of the cross section through 23, where module 1 is not present. The position of the O-ring 25 is indicated in 7d.

A view of housing module 23 from the left is shown in Figure 7d. It also indicates the location of the O-ring 25. In addition, the grooves 26 within housing module 23 are also indicated. Module 1 slides within these grooves by means of the elements 17. The mechanical contact between the O-ring 26 and the module 1 is along track 16, indicated in Figure 5c.

The overall assembly, using either of the housing modules 18, 21 or 23 may also be part of a clasp of a wrist strap or replace an element of a clasp similar to the one disclosed in patent CH661172. Either of the mentioned housing modules could for example replace element 1 within, for example, CH661172. This way, the additional function of a memory device would not even be visible when the strap is worn, leading to no modification of the overall appearance of the design, e.g. a watch, jewellery or another type of bracelet.

Another feature that can be incorporated into module 1 refers to the accessibility of the memory of the device. According to the invention, a part of the memory may be preloaded with data, defined by the manufacturer or the distributor. This and other sections of the memory are read-only, but the user may reconfigure the device in a sense that he can delete the delivered information and use a part or all of the device's memory in random access mode and store data, in case he is in possession of a specific code. Also, access to the device can be protected via password and data on the device may be protected by encryption methods. Yet another embodiment is illustrated in Figure 8. Again, the memory module adapter device can be accommodated on one or more chain links of a strap or on a flexible material, representing the wrist strap segment or attachment 1 mentioned earlier. This whole unit can then be fitted on top of an existing wrist strap, for example by clamping it to the strap 11 or using other mechanisms to secure it in place, as the side view of Figure 8 shows. It is important that this bondage cannot be parted easily or unintentionally. For the smooth integration of the module with the existing strap the unit 1 can be bent to some extent, to follow the shape of the strap when it is attached to the wrist. The ability of the underlying strap to bend can be either due to a hinge or joint or the result of the natural flexibility of the strap material. If the unit 1 contains a joint or hinge 27, it is advantageous to align it with a hinge 27 of the underlying strap, if present, in order to obtain optimum flexibility of the compound unit, as illustrated in Figure 7b. Furthermore, the section of the unit 1, representing the electrical computer interface connector 2, is not permanently bonded to the underlying structure of the wrist strap. Therefore, the connector 2 can simply be exposed by folding the wrist strap, as shown in Figure 6c. In this configuration the device is inserted into the interface slot. Module 1 can have a joint 28. A sealing O-ring 29 may also be implemented.

Referring to Figure 9 of the drawings, in an exemplary embodiment, the memory module 1 may comprise a USB adapter having USB connector terminals 2 and a slot for receiving a memory card. A housing module 100, having a recessed frame for receiving the memory module 1 in a closed configuration, is hingedly attached to an end of the watch strap 11 between the watch strap and one of the cooperating parties 120 of the fastening mechanism.

The memory module 1 is pivotally mounted within the housing module 100.

When the connector terminals 2 are required to be exposed for use, the memory module 1 is pivoted away from the housing module 100, as shown in Figure 9b, so that the connector terminals 2 are exposed. Such pivotal movement of the memory module 1 also exposes the slot 150 for receiving, for example, a microSD memory card as shown in Figure 9c. Once, the memory card 160 has been correctly inserted in the slot 150 (Figure 9d), the memory module 1 can be inserted in the USB socket of a conventional desktop or notebook computer, for example (as shown in Figure 9c). When the memory module 1 is no longer required for use, it can be pivoted back to its recessed position within the housing module 100 and the watch strap 11 can be fastened around the user's wrist 130, by means of conventional fastening means 120, as shown in Figure 9f.

It will be appreciated that, due to the secure and reliable nature in which the present invention facilitates personal data storage, it is particularly (but by no means exclusively) suited to encryption technology and/or storage of medical data, suitably marked and protected, for use by medical staff in case of an emergency.

It should be noted that the above-mentioned embodiments illustrate rather than limit the invention, and that those skilled in the art will be capable of designing many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. In the claims, any reference signs placed in parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claims. The word "comprising" and "comprises", and the like, does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those listed in any claim or the specification as a whole. The singular reference of an element does not exclude the plural reference of such elements and vice-versa. The invention may be implemented by means of hardware comprising several distinct elements, and by means of a suitably programmed computer. In a device claim enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by one and the same item of hardware. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

Claims

1. A housing module for connecting a memory module to the elongate fastening means of a body- worn adornment or device, said fastening means having mutually cooperating portions of a fastening mechanism provided at respective ends thereof, the housing module comprising means for attachment thereof to said fastening means at a location between said mutually cooperating portions of said fastening mechanism, and means for mounting thereon a memory module for movement between a first position, in which said memory module lies substantially flush or in parallel with said fastening means, and a second position in which said memory module remains connected to said housing module and a connector portion thereof is exposed for use.

2. A housing module according to claim 1, wherein said housing module defines a recess within which said memory module is located when in said first position, such that said memory module lies substantially flush with said housing module.

3. A housing module according to claim 1 or claim 2, arranged and configured to be pivotally connected at one end to said fastening means, wherein the opposing end of said housing module is arranged and configured for connection to a respective one of said mutually cooperating portions of said fastening mechanism.

4. A housing module according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said means for mounting said memory module comprises pivotal or slidable mounting means for pivotally or slidably mounting said memory module to said hosing module for pivotal or slidable movement relative to said housing module between said first and second positions.

5. A housing module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said memory module comprises an integrated flash memory device having a USB interface.

6. A housing module according to claim 5, wherein said memory module comprises a slot for receiving a memory card.

7. A housing according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein said memory module comprises an adapter having a USB interface and comprising a slot for receiving a memory card.

8. A housing according to claim 6 or claim 7, wherein sealing means are provided for said slot so as to provide a substantially water-tight seal between said slot and said memory card, when in use.

9. A housing module according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising means at one end thereof for attachment to said fastening means, substantially in line therewith, and means at an opposing end thereof for connecting one of said mutually cooperating portions of said fastening mechanism thereto.

10. A memory module for attachment to the elongate fastening means of a body- worn adornment or device, said fastening means having mutually cooperating portions of a fastening mechanism provided at respective ends thereof, said memory module comprising a connector portion for connection of said memory module to a reader and mounting means for mounting said memory module between said fastening means and one of said mutually cooperating portions of said fastening mechanism, said mounting means being arranged and configured to mount said memory module relative to said fastening means for movement between a first position, in which said memory module lies substantially in line or in parallel with said fastening means, and a second position in which said memory module remains connected to said fastening means and a connector portion thereof is exposed for use.

11. A memory module according to claim 10, wherein said mounting means comprises a housing module according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

12. A memory module according to claim 10 or claim 11 , having a USB interface comprising an integrated flash memory device.

13. A memory module according to claim 12, comprising a slot for receiving a memory card.

14. A memory module according to claim 10 or claim 11, comprising an adapter having a USB interface and comprising a slot for receiving a memory card.

15. A memory module according to claim 13 or claim 14 wherein sealing means are provided for said slot so as to provide a substantially water-tight seal between said slot and said memory card, when in use.

16. A memory module according to any one of claims 10 to 15, wherein said mounting means comprises means for attaching said memory module, adjacent one end thereof, to said fastening means, substantially in line therewith, and for attaching one of said mutually cooperating portions of said fastening mechanism adjacent an opposing end of said memory module when in said first configuration.

17. An elongate fastening device for a body- worn adornment or device, said fastening device comprising mutually cooperating portions of a fastening mechanism at respective ends thereof, the fastening device having a memory module mounted or incorporated relative thereto for movement between a first position, in which said memory module lies substantially in line or in parallel with said fastening device, and a second position in which said memory module remains connected to said fastening device and a connector portion thereof is exposed for use.

18. An elongate fastening device according to claim 17, comprising mounting means for mounting said memory module relative to said fastening device, said mounting means comprising a housing module according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

19. An elongate fastening device according to claim 15 or claim 16, comprising a memory module according to any one of claims 10 to 16.

20. An elongate fastening member according to any one of claims 16 to 19 comprising a watch strap.

21. A watch comprising a watch housing attachable to a user's arm or wrist by means of a watch strap according to claim 20.

22. A method of manufacturing a body- worn adornment or device comprising an elongate fastening means having mutually cooperating portions of a fastening mechanism provided at respective ends thereof, the method comprising mounting a housing module according to claim 1 to said fastening means at a location between said mutually cooperating portions of said fastening mechanism, and mounting a memory module to said housing module.

23. A method of manufacturing a body- worn adornment or device comprising an elongate fastening means having mutually cooperating portions of a fastening mechanism provided at respective ends thereof, the method comprising mounting a memory module according to claim 10 to said fastening means at a location between said mutually cooperating portions of said fastening mechanism.

24. A housing module according to any one of claims 1 to 9, a memory module according to any one of claims 10 to 16 or a device according to claim 17 or claim 18, wherein said memory module is used to store one or more of personal data that may be relevant in case of an accident or injury, personal signatures, keys, access codes, means of personal identification.

25. A housing module according to any one of claims 1 to 9, a memory module according to any one of claims 10 to 16 or a device according to claim 17 or claim 18, wherein said memory module is accessible and/or reconfigurable for random access mode by a user upon input of a predetermined code or password only.