Apple's new patent: smart health monitoring headphones, shake your head can change music

The US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) passed a patent on "the motion detection system for headphones, earphones or headsets" that Apple applied for in 2008. The patent shows that Apple has developed devices that integrate motion monitoring for at least six years. This type of earphone with various sensors can detect various physiological indicators, including body temperature, heart rate and perspiration level.

According to the patent document, the fitness detection system is hidden in the earphones, and the user usually listens to music while wearing headphones. By placing the earphones in or near the ear, the embedded motion sensor can obtain data on body temperature, ranking and heart rate. Based on the skin-based detection function, the accelerometer can also be integrated inside the earphone so that accurate motion data can be collected. In some cases, it is also mentioned that multiple acceleration sensors are integrated, corresponding to different direction axes.

The motion sensor can be located at the top or bottom of the headset, but the patent does not describe in detail how these physiological indicator data is collected. Apple has many other patents describing communication between the electronic sensor and the user's skin, including the use of the iPhone's external metal structure. The user's heart signal, etc. Apple may add a conductive metal ring to the earphone or touch the motion sensor to the user's skin. The motion detection sensor can also cooperate with the acceleration sensor, which means that the user can initiate commands through the action of the head. For example, When the user wants to change music or adjust the volume, it can be achieved by shaking his head or swinging his head. In order to prevent accidental activation of the head control, this operation through the head action may require the user to press and hold a special button. achieve.

The patent also states that this smart headset can support wired or wireless transmission at the same time, such as communicating with devices such as iPhone via Bluetooth. Although most of the patents describe motion detection, this headset can also integrate "psychological" sensors, Apple It is possible to use a special logic algorithm to judge the collected biological information and determine the mood state of the user.

There are more and more rumors about Apple's iWatch, and Apple has recruited many experts from the medical sensor and health industry, which has led many to believe that the company will launch an independent wearable device that can monitor multiple physiological indicators. Today's patent display Apple's wearable device may be more than just iWatch, smart headphones are also very good products!