WO2008035993A1

WO2008035993A1 - Mounting apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2008035993A1
Application number: PCT/NZ2007/000276
Authority: WO
Inventors: Alan Edgar Chester
Original assignee: Multi Watch Limited
Priority date: 2006-09-19
Filing date: 2007-09-19
Publication date: 2008-03-27
Also published as: WO2008035993A9

Abstract

This invention relates to a device used to mount and retain a number of electrical devices or mechanical devices on a band. Specifically, there is provided a mounting apparatus for connection to a body which includes, a length of material, wherein the length of material is configured for connection to a plurality of electronic or mechanical devices, characterised in that, the material includes a connection system configured to enable a user to removably connect at least one electrical or mechanical device anywhere along the length of material.

Description

MOUNTING APPARATUS

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to a device used to mount and retain a number of electrical devices on a band. Specifically, a mounting apparatus configured in accordance with the invention may be worn as a piece of jewellery or the like by the user.

BACKGROUND ART

Wrist watches which employ wrist straps to mount and hold a watch on the wrist of the user are well known. Wristwatches and straps provide the user with a time piece which may be worn practically everywhere by the user.

However the applicant has observed that, although wrist watches perform adequately as timepieces, most provide no other function to the user. Some more advanced watches provide calculators or stop watches incorporated into the actual watch component itself, where the entire watch is formed as a single integral piece mounted into a wrist band.

It is also known to provide separate electrical devices mounted into a wrist strap. For example, US Patent 4,086,916 describes a cardiac monitoring system incorporated into a wrist watchstrap. Sensors that determine the user's heart rate are mounted into the wristband of a wristwatch. The sensors are then connected via data transmission lines mounted in the wrist strap to a watch component that can display an indication of the wearer's pulse rate.

Although this device does provide more than one function to the end user, it is a dedicated apparatus that can only be used to provide a particular set of functions. Furthermore, a significant portion of the surface area of the wrist strap involved is also unused, as the sensors provided take up a small area only of the strap.

NZ 516102 is an invention for a wrist communication device having a multi-section keypad and antenna system. The multi-system keypad is configured to move between a closed position and an open position. In the open position, the sections of the multisection keypad expand to provide an enlarged, integrated keypad surface.

However, the disadvantage of this invention is it does not include a band capable of connecting a plurality of electronic or mechanical modular devices. Also, this patent does not have the features of a data transmission and energy line contained within the band.

US 4,586,827 discloses an information system built up of at least two modules, where modules can be joined with each other by way of a band attachable to a user wherein at least two mutually insulated electronic connecting wires are embedded.

The method of attachment is with a bushing and a pivotal lid to drive the contacts into the cable. Although claimed that the display position can be moved on the cable and hence repositioned, the connection method which utilises tines as Insulation Displacement Connectors (IDC) prevents this repositioning from occurring.

A disadvantage of this method of attachment using IDC's is they are considered a single use component. The tines cannot easily be removed from the cable, so once a module is attached to the strap, it cannot be replaced or interchanged.

WO 2005/083546 discloses a wearable modular interface strap device for supporting multiple module units comprising a flexible strap with a plurality of electrically connected nodes acting as docking points to serial bus interfaces. Removable modules are able to be mechanically connected with hub and host circuitry enabling network communication between modules and to a universal connector plug recharging and data-exchange.

However, the disadvantage of this invention is the discrete attachment points located on the band, so modules can not be placed anywhere along the band. Also, there is no provision to make the modules waterproof in the connection scheme. Further, it utilises a two wire circuit which uses a constant current sink in every module which means every module is consuming battery power irrespective of whether a module is in use.

US 6,619,835 is a function module unit having a memory function removably attached on one of the wrist bands, while a function module unit has a sensor function which is removably attached to the other wrist band. On both wrist bands, bus line wires are embedded along the longitudinal direction. Each of the bus line wires comprises a Vcc line, a serial data line, a clock data line and a ground line.

The disadvantage of this module device is that it is all based on using USB. USB is limited to a fixed number of docking stations. Typically, these are in multiples of 2 or 4 to reflect the hardware that would have to be embedded in the strap,, so the strap becomes a hub. This not only makes it very difficult to waterproof, but expensive to manufacture and a high consumption on battery capacity. Also, the existing USB hub- controllers are not well designed to use as separate devices where a chip controls four USB devices.

All references, including any patents or patent applications cited in this specification are hereby incorporated by reference. No admission is made that any reference constitutes prior art. The discussion of the references states what their authors assert, and the applicants reserve the right to challenge the accuracy and pertinency of the cited documents. It will be clearly understood that, although a number of prior art publications are referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that any of these documents form part of the common general knowledge in the art, in New Zealand or in any other country.

It is acknowledged that the term 'comprise' may, under varying jurisdictions, be attributed with either an exclusive or an inclusive meaning. For the purpose of this specification, and unless otherwise noted, the term 'comprise' shall have an inclusive meaning - i.e. that it will be taken to mean an inclusion of not only the listed components it directly references, but also other non-specified components or elements. This rationale will also be used when the term 'comprised' or 'comprising' is used in relation to one or more steps in a method or process.

It is an object of the present invention to address the foregoing problems or at least to provide the public with a useful choice.

Further aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the ensuing description which is given by way of example only.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a mounting apparatus for connection to a body which includes, a length of material,

wherein the length of material is configured for connection to a plurality of electronic or mechanical devices,

characterised in that, the material includes a connection system configured to enable a user to removably connect at least one electrical or mechanical device anywhere along the length of material.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of configuring a mounting apparatus for connecting to a body which includes, a length of material,

characterised by the steps of:

(a) configuring the length of material for connecting to a plurality of electronic or mechanical devices; and

(b) including a connection system to removably connect at least one electrical or mechanical device anywhere along the length of material.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention there is provided an electrical or mechanical device adapted to be removably connected to a mounting apparatus band substantially as described above.

Throughout the present specification the term 'body¹ should be understood to mean a physical structure of an animal or human being.

In preferred embodiments of the present invention the length of material may be polyethylene, urethane or any other such material. It may be of any suitable length required to manufacture a band.

Preferably, the material has a memory retention. The advantage of using a polyethylene or urethane or type material is that it is a resilient, deformable and self-healing material where modules can be easily attached and removed anywhere along the band.

Specifically, polyurethane elastomers such as Conathane^® urethane elastomers can be manufactured with formulations which adjust the density, resilience, wear resistance and flexibility to give the properties similar to rubber. By adding plasticizers to polyethylenes these too can have suitable properties as described above.

The industrial automation standard (ASI) uses cable material manufactured of both EPDM (polyethylene) and PUR (polyurethane).

Preferably, the above materials may be moulded and manufactured into a band.

In preferred embodiments the material may have an operating temperature range of - 40°c to105°c.

In preferred embodiments connection wires of the material may have a nominal voltage of 32 to 48 Volts.

In preferred embodiments the material may have a conductor resistance of 13.7 Ohm/km maximum.

In preferred embodiments the material may have an insulation resistance of 1 GOhm multiplied by the number of km minimum.

In preferred embodiments the material may have a minimum bending radius for laying of 24 mm. It also provides a waterproof layer for the electronic devices, communication wires and power lines inserted into the band.

A band as discussed above may be any strap that is adapted to be worn by the user, but may be a regular two part watch strap with a link or buckle. Straps may be flexible or elastic in nature to allow the band they form to be placed over and around a limb or other body part of the wearer. Furthermore, the band described above need not form a complete circle or oval shape. In some embodiments bands may be substantially "C" shaped with a flexible nature so that the opposite ends of the band may be pulled apart and the band pulled over and around a body part of the wearer.

Reference throughout this specification will be now be made to the band used in accordance with the present invention being a substantially circular loop or strap onto which a number of devices may be removably connected. However, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other configurations of such a band are also considered and reference to the above only throughout this specification should in no way be seen as limiting.

In a preferred embodiment the band of the mounting apparatus may be configured to be worn on the user's wrist. This configuration of the invention allows it to emulate existing wristwatches that are well known and readily worn by the general public. However, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other embodiments of the present invention may be worn on different body parts. For example, in some alternative embodiments the present invention may be configured as a headband, ankle band or neck band depending on the particular requirements of the user in such an embodiment. In a preferred embodiment the mounting device may incorporate or be connected to a plurality of mechanical or electrical devices. Such devices may perform a variety of functions or operations depending on the requirements of the user who selects each device for incorporation or connection to the mounting apparatus.

For example, a mechanical device which may be connected to mounting apparatus could be the equivalent of a compact Swiss Army Knife with a number of small tools incorporated into same. Alternatively, another mechanical device which could be incorporated into the present invention may be a compact container or box into which small articles such as medication pills or small mechanical keys may be placed and retained. Those skilled in the art should also appreciate that such devices need not necessarily require connections or associations with energy or data transmission lines, but such lines may still be included in the band for devices which can use them.

Those skilled in the art should appreciate that a wide variety and range of electrical devices may also be incorporated into the present invention depending on the user's requirements. For example, a heart rate monitor is a useful device and can sense and monitor the current heart rate during exercise. Electrical transmitters and receivers, electrical memory storage devices, electrical time pieces, or information sensing and display systems may be incorporated into the band. Those skilled in the art should appreciate the examples specified above in this regard should in no way be seen as limiting.

In a further preferred embodiment a band incorporating the above base unit may also be adapted to incorporate or to removably connect to the following devices:

• A stopwatch, and/or a standard time piece that may display time in a number of separate time zones. • A transmitter/receiver system which could for example be adapted to provide global positioning satellite information. This may provide location ability to determine the whereabouts of the user/wearer.

• Telecommunication devices such as cellular phones or beepers,

• Remote control devices (such as well-known infra-red transmitters) to remote control appliances, machinery and utilities.

• A remote control for security devices such as opening car doors or garage doors based on a low power radio transmitter/receiver.

• Sensor/transducer systems which may provide the band's wearer with information regarding their own body temperature, their environment's temperature, light levels in their environment, electromagnetic radiation levels such as ultra violet light in the environment, altitude readings, barometric pressure readings, relative humidity readings, information regarding the wearer's pulse rate or the noise level in a particular location.

• A radiation dosage meter which could for example detect levels of electromagnetic radiation.

• An electrical data storage device which may store information provided by any or all devices used with the band and also provide an interface with a separate microprocessing device or computer system. Such a data storage device may also store other information required by the user such as calendar appointments or a data bank of telephone numbers used by the user. This information may also be retrieved from the data storage device and be displayed on another device connected to the band. • A display unit which simply consists of a display face in the form of, for example, a liquid crystal display, on which information transmitted from other devices connected to the band may be displayed. Such a display may be generic in nature to preferably display alpha numeric symbols, and may also be configured to display multiple types of information simultaneously.

• A time keeping device which can provide stop watching, alarm, calendar and time display functions without displaying this information but transmitting same to a display base unit or a display device also connected to the band. This type of device can distribute the hardware (such as controls for the user) required to perform such functions along the base, thereby providing a less bulky and aesthetically pleasing look to the band.

• A "blank" device which performs no function other than filling in space on the band with a housing substantially similar to the other devices also connected or incorporated into the band.

• Mechanical devices such as small lockable containers or miniaturised Swiss Army Knife type devices which provide or incorporate a number of small tools, or a compass which indicates which direction magnetic north is.

Those skilled in the art should also appreciate the above list of examples should in no way be seen as limiting.

In a preferred embodiment each device to be used in conjunction with the present invention may be removably connected to the band. This means that the number of devices that can be used with the present invention need not be limited by the actual surface area or length of the band. As each of these devices are removably connected to the band, the user may simply select which devices they wish to use or wear on a particular day and install them onto the band. If their requirements change over time they may simply remove the existing devices installed onto the band and replace them with more appropriate devices.

In a preferred embodiment devices to be connected to the band may have a modular configuration. In such an embodiment each module used may employ an adaptor or connector which is adapted to engage with at least one connector incorporated into the band to removably connect the device to the strap.

Those skilled in the art should also appreciate that such modular designs can ensure a large number and range of different types of devices may be removably connected to the band.

In preferred embodiments the modules may contain all of the software information. In this way the main watch control does not have to be pre-programmed with a list of modules for future proofing.

In a further preferred embodiment such modular devices may also be designed with an approximate uniform size and shape to fit in approximately the same shape housing. This will provide the band with a uniform and aesthetically pleasing appearance when a number of devices are connected or incorporated into same.

For example, a blank device which performs no function other than filling in the space in the band with a housing substantially similar to the other devices may also be connected or incorporated into the band. This enhances the aesthetics of the device.

In preferred embodiments of the present invention the connector system may take the form of two or more conductive tracks formed integrally within the band. However, this should not be seen as a limitation on the present invention as any type of connectors in the connection system that conceivably be used with the invention such as stranded wire, inductive or optical coupling between modules.

An alternative connection system may be a single stranded wire embedded in the strap and some part of the outer strap to have an exposed metal surface, made out of a thin sheet material such as stainless steel. This forms one of the two wire connections to the module.

Another alternative connection system may be using two stranded wired each made up of fine wire twisted to form a conductor. Electrical connection from the module being made by the module have a solid pin to pierce the strap. In a preferred embodiment the present invention may include a base unit configured as a device which is permanently incorporated or attached to the strap. Such a base unit may provide a power source and a display surface on which information may be displayed. Other modular devices removably connected to the strap may use the base unit to display information or to receive energy to power themselves.

In a preferred embodiment all of the modular devices removably connected to the band may also be connected to at least one data transmission line. Such a data transmission line or lines may allow electrical devices to communicate with each other and in a further preferred embodiment allow information from modules to be displayed on the display of a base unit.

This further preferred configuration of the invention allows modular devices to be designed without display screens, thereby decreasing costs and manufacturing times. Furthermore, information from modular sensing devices may also be transmitted via such data transmission lines to an electrical information storage medium also removably attached to the band. Such a medium may store data indicative of the parameters sensed by the devices connected to the band, and may also transmit this data to a separate microprocessor or computing system for storage or manipulation on same.

Those skilled in the art should appreciate that a data transmission line configured in accordance with the present invention may be used with any type of known physical data transmission medium. For example, electrical conductors or fibre optic line may be used to provide such a data transmission line or lines in some embodiments. Furthermore, energy can be inductively coupled onto an electrical conductor instead of a voltage being directly applied to such a conductor, or where fibre optic lines are used, this eliminates the need for a direct physical link between a device and a data transmission line, simplifying the connection scheme for devices to the band.

In a preferred embodiment the present invention may include at least one energy transmission line. Such an energy transmission line may be adapted to allow energy to be transmitted to at least one device removably attached to the band to power and operate same. Electrical energy may be easily harnessed using existing technology incorporated into the above devices and also may be easily stored in compact battery system. Such a battery system may be incorporated into either a modular device to be removably connected to the band, or alternatively into a base unit permanently incorporated into the band.

In a further preferred embodiment an energy transmission line or lines may be incorporated into the invention in the form of two electrically conducting wires imbedded integrally in the band. Those skilled in the art should appreciate how electrical power can be easily transmitted to modular devices connected to the band using such two wire power transmission lines. These types of electrically conducting wires may be designed so as to be flexible and malleable, thereby allowing the wires to flex and bend when incorporated into an elastic or flexible band.

In a preferred embodiment two electricity conducting wires embedded integrally into the band may also be used as data transmission lines. Electrical energy may be transmitted alongside these lines simultaneously with information. For example, in one embodiment the two wires used may carry an alternating current which may be frequency or amplitude modulated to contain and transmit information. This configuration of the invention substantially simplifies the design of the band as well as reducing the materials cost for same. Furthermore, electrical connections to devices to be removably attached to the band are also simplified.

Reference throughout this specification will now be made to the band incorporating a two-wire data and energy transmission line scheme. However, those skilled in the art should appreciate that other configurations of the present invention are envisioned and reference to the use of two lines only incorporated into the band should in no way be seen as limiting.

In a preferred embodiment the data and energy transmission lines discussed above may be adapted to provide bi-directional or two-way transmission of data.

In another preferred embodiment the data and energy transmission lines may be using the same physical electrical conductors.

Alternatively a token ring approach could be taken to eliminate the need for bidirectional drivers to be used with the data transmission lines. In a preferred embodiment data may be transmitted along the data transmission line at any speed ranging from between 2 to 32,768 bits per second.

In a further preferred embodiment the data may be transmitted along such lines at speeds ranging between 8,192 to 16, 384 bits per second. Furthermore, a number of different types of communication schemes or protocols may also be used with the present invention. For example in one embodiment an I²C communication protocol or alternatively asynchronous data transmission scheme may be used to transmit and receive data in accordance with the present invention.

Those skilled in the art should appreciate these types and speeds of data transfers may be readily transmitted and received using standard technology known in the art.

Those skilled in the art should also readily appreciate that as well as using standard integrated circuit technology for data transmission at the above rates, a custom designed protocol, and custom hardware integrated circuits based around addressable elements using embedded clock and data technology are readily usable with the present invention.

In a preferred embodiment the present invention includes at least one connector adapted to removably connect at least one device to the band.

In a further preferred embodiment the present invention may include a single connector only onto which a number of devices may be removably connected. In such an embodiment the connector used may preferably be or incorporate indentations or tracks running the length of the strap. These tracks may provide or incorporate an overhanging section so that a pin or other similar protrusion on the surface of a device may be pushed in such a track and held in place by the overhang. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that the size, shape and configuration of pins and overhangings on tracks used in such a connector may be configured so that the device will normally be held firmly in place, but if significant pressure is applied the device may be lifted out of the track by the user.

In a further preferred embodiment, at least two connection pins may be provided in each device to connect to two separate connector tracks located within the strap. In a preferred embodiment the two tracks located within the strap may also incorporate the two data and energy transmission and energy lines discussed above. The pins in each device may electrically connect the device to the power and data transmission lines within the connector tracks, thereby allowing a device to be removably attached to the band to be supplied with electrical energy, and also to allow the device to communicate with other devices or a base unit incorporated into the band.

This configuration of the connector also allows the end user or wearer to site each device on a band at any particular location. Furthermore, this configuration of the connector means that devices incorporated into the strap may be spaced out evenly or alternatively pushed together closely if a large number of devices are to be worn.

Reference throughout this specification will also be made to the band incorporating a single connector only onto which a number of separate devices may be removably connected. However, those skilled in the art should appreciate that other configurations of the present invention are envisioned and reference to the above only throughout this specification should in no way be seen as limiting.

In a preferred embodiment each electrical device adapted for use with the present invention may be assigned a unique software address. The electronic components incorporated into such a device may recognise that other devices or a base unit incorporated into the strap are trying to communicate with the device through use of this unique software address. This configuration of modular electrical devices means that such devices need not be located at a particular physical location on the strap in order for them to be recognised or communicated with.

The following now describes an alternative preferred embodiment of the present invention:

This design may also be considered a digital wrist device with multi-functionality.

Preferably, the band may be thin and in the shape of an elongated rectangle with curves.

Preferably, the thin band is manufactured out of any type of fabric/material.

More preferably, the material has memory retention and water proof qualities.

In preferred embodiments the top side of the band houses a flexible touch screen or display configured with a separate home button positioned close to one end of the screen.

It is envisaged that the clasping mechanism may include a button to lock into place and incorporate a USB adapter to connect with a computer or other electronic devices.

Preferably, the flexible band may include at least two wires within the band forming a closed circuit. The advantage of this feature is that the band does not need to be connected at each end to operate.

In preferred embodiments the underside of the band includes a number of blanks recessed into the band with pin connectors. Preferably, a button located next to the blank allows a module (e.g. GPS, memory stick, etc) to be pushed in and then 'popped' out for removal depending on the functionality required.

The present invention provides many potential advantages over existing prior art devices.

The present invention may allow a plurality of different devices to be removably attached anywhere along a band worn by a user. The advantage of this feature is that it gives greater versatility and allows users to select the preferred position to place a device onto the band. This may be for aesthetic or practical reasons while still maintaining connection and water resistance.

The use of a resilient and deformable material allows devices to be easily swapped or changed depending on the user's requirements due to each device being constructed or configured with a modular design.

This material also offers waterproof protection in the connection scheme.

Urethane or polyurethane and polyethylene are elastomeric materials. As such they have a very high yield point, so can be stretched and will return to their original moulded shape. This provides self sealing and their characteristic waterproof qualities. They can be stretched up to approximately double their normal length at room temperature and when released will return to their original length. Thermoset elastomers have the advantage of being able to be moulded into convenient shapes. Those skilled in the art and industry know that it is possible to add these elastomer materials to rigid thermoset plastic materials to provide the desired strength and elastomeric properties. There is no requirement for the strap ends to be connected to each other in order for the watch and associated modules to function. All the electrical connections and power source span the length of the band in a continuous loop.

If the display module is also attached to the strap using the same method of electrical connection as the other modules, then the strap is not broken into two pieces where each would require separate electrical connections at the display module. The strap being in one piece is easy to manufacture where it is mechanically strong, waterproof and can easily be replaced or changed to suit fashion requirements.

The use of an AC coupled signal to signal the power line where the signal to be decoupled is through a capacitator/inductor. Alternative embodiments use a NRZ (non-returned zero) transmission for the duration of the transmission. This has the advantage that there is no wasted power consumption yet overcomes the noise by using the power line.

Modules contain all of the soft information regarding their functionality. In this way the control main unit does not have to be pre-programmed with a list of modules for future proofing the technology.

The mounting apparatus band may be customised to a user's particular requirements, and also optimises the user's resources as they only need buy devices which they will use and may sell on other devices which they no longer need.

The present invention may have a market in consumer electronics as well as in industries where inspectors or other parties need to collect data and information at remote locations using transducer or sensor systems. Such information may be readily sensed and recorded using modular devices removably connected to the present invention. Furthermore, the present invention may also incorporate a data recording and storage means that can readily transmit the information stored to another computer system or microprocessor.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Further aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the following description, which is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a mounting apparatus configured in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 2 shows a side view of the same mounting apparatus as shown in Figure 1 ;

Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view through Line AA of Figure 2;

Figure 4 shows an exploded view of mounting apparatus of Figure 1 ;

Figure 5 shows a top view of a mounting apparatus configured in accordance with an alternative preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 6 shows a bottom view of a mounting apparatus configured in accordance with the same alternative preferred embodiment of the present invention as shown in Figure 5;

Figure 7 shows an end view of a mounting apparatus configured in accordance with the same alternative preferred embodiment of the present invention as shown in Figure 5; Figure 8 shows a side view of a mounting apparatus configured in accordance with the same alternative preferred embodiment of the present invention as shown in Figure 5; and

Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a mounting apparatus configured in accordance with the same alternative preferred embodiment of the present invention as shown in Figure 5.

BEST MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Figure 1 and 2- show a perspective view and side view of a mounting apparatus configured in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

The mounting apparatus (1 ) includes a band of neoprene material (2) onto which a plurality of electrical or mechanical devices (3) are removably connected. Also incorporated into the band (2) is a base unit (4) which includes a display (5) and an electrical battery (not fully shown). In the embodiment shown each of the devices (3) is removably connected to the band (2) via a single connector system (6).

This connector system (6) takes the form of two tracks (6a, 6b) formed integrally within the band (2). Each track in turn includes two separate indentations or channels, with an overhanging roof section (not fully shown) present in each channel.

Figures 3 and 4 show more clearly the interaction between each of the electrical and mechanical devices (3) and the connector system (6). As can be seen from these views each of the devices (3) includes two pairs of protruding pins (7) mounted on the underside of each device. These pins are adapted to fit closely within each of the channels of the pair of tracks (6a, 6b). At the bottom of each of the channels provided within a track there is also an electrically conductive wire (not fully shown). These wires are adapted to transmit both electrical energy and electrical data from one device to another and to allow two way communication between the base unit (4) and any other device (3) removably connected to the band (2). Each of the pins (7) also provides an electrical connection to the power and data transmission lines to allow information to be transmitted to and from each device and for power to be transmitted to each device.

As can be seen from Figures 1 to 4 the present invention as configured in this embodiment allows for the removable connection of a number of devices of the mounting band (2). Each of the devices (3) is configured in a modular format with substantially the same size and shape, thereby allowing a number of similar modules with different functions to be incorporated into the band (2).

In the embodiment shown in Figure 4 Device (3a) is configured as a compact container used to hold small medicinal pills, Device (3b) is adapted to include a small compass to indicate to the wearer the approximate direction of magnetic north, whereas Device (3c) is configured as an electrical data storage device adapted to store and record electrical data transmitted along the data and power transmission lines within the connector (6).

Device (3d) is configured as a telecommunications beeper that is adapted to receive telecommunication signals and communicate information to the display (5) of the base unit. Device (3e) is configured as a sensor transducer system which senses the user's body temperature and communicates this information to the base unit for display. Device (3f) is configured as another sensor transducer system, this time used to sense the level of UV light in the immediate vicinity of the wearer and to transmit this information to the base unit (4) for display.

Figures 5 to 9 show a mounting apparatus configured in accordance with an alternative preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Again, the mounting apparatus includes a band of neoprene material (2). The top side of the band (2) houses a flexible touch screen or display (5) configured with a separate home button (8) positioned close to one end of the screen (5). The clasping mechanism (9) includes a push button (10) on the side of the band (2). The clasping mechanism (9) also incorporates a USB adaptor (11 ) to connect with a computer or other electronic devices (not shown).

As per the other embodiment described earlier and shown in Figures 1 to 4, the flexible band (2) includes at least two wires (not shown) within the band (2) forming a closed circuit. Therefore, the band does not need to be connected at each end to operate as shown in Figure 9.

Figure 6 shows the underside of the band (2) which includes a number of blanks (12) (recessed into the band) with pin connectors (not shown).

A button (13) located next to the blank (12) allows a module (not shown - e.g. GPS, memory stick, etc) to be pushed in and then 'popped' out for removal depending on the functionality required.

Aspects of the present invention have been described by way of example only and it should be appreciated that modifications and additions may be made thereto without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

WHAT WE CLAIM IS:

1. A mounting apparatus for connection to a body which includes, a length of material,

characterised in that,

the material includes a connection system configured to enable a user to removably connect at least one electrical or mechanical device anywhere along the length of material.

2. A mounting apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the length of material has a memory for retention.

3. A mounting apparatus as claimed in claim 2, wherein the length of material is polyethylene.

4. A mounting apparatus as claimed in claim 2, wherein the length of material is urethane.

5. A mounting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the material may have an operating temperature range of -40°c to105°c.

6. A mounting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein connection wires of the material may have a nominal voltage of 32 to 48 Volts.

7. A mounting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the material may have a conductor resistance of 13.7 Ohm/km maximum.

8. A mounting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the material may have an insulation resistance of 1 GOhm multiplied by the number of km minimum.

9. A mounting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the material may have a minimum bending radius for laying of 24 mm.

10. A mounting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the mounting apparatus is configured to form a band to be worn on a user's wrist.

11. A mounting apparatus as claimed in claim 10, wherein the underside of the band includes a number of blanks recessed into the band with pin connectors.

12. A mounting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11 , wherein the mounting apparatus is connected to a plurality of mechanical and electrical devices.

13. A mounting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein each device to be used in conjunction with the mounting apparatus is removably connected to the band.

14. A mounting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the devices to be connected to the band are of a modular configuration.

15. A mounting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the modules contain all of the software information.

16. A mounting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the connection system is two or more conductive tracks formed integrally within the band.

17. A mounting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the connection system is a single strand wire embedded in the strap.

18. A mounting apparatus as claimed in claim 17 wherein the wire embedded in the strap includes an exposed metal surface on part of the outer strap.

19. A mounting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the connection system is two strands of wire to form a conductor.

20. A mounting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the modular devices removably connected to the band are connected to at least one data transmission line.

21. A mounting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the mounting apparatus includes at least one energy transmission line.

22. A mounting apparatus as claimed in claim 21 , wherein the energy transmission line is two electrically conducting wires imbedded integrally in the band.

23. A mounting apparatus as claimed in claim 21 or claim 22, wherein the two electrically conducting wires imbedded integrally into the band are used as data transmission lines.

24. A mounting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the data and energy transmission lines provide bi-directional transmission of data.

25. A mounting apparatus as claimed in claim 24, wherein the data and energy transmission lines use the same electrical conductors.

26. A mounting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 25, wherein the mounting apparatus includes at least one connector adapted to removably connect at least one device to the band.

27. A mounting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 26, wherein at least two connection pins of each device connect to two separate connector tracks located within the band.

28. A mounting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein each electrical device adapted for use with the mounting apparatus is assigned a unique software address.

29. A method of configuring a mounting apparatus for connecting to a body which includes, a length of material,

characterised by the steps of:

30. An electrical device configured to internet with a mounting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 29.

31. An electrical device as claims in claim 29, wherein the device is configured with connection pins spaced apart to connect with the data and energy transmission lines.

32. A mechanical device configured to interact with a mounting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 31.

33. An electrical device adapted to be removably connected to the mounting apparatus substantially as herein described with reference to and as illustrated by the accompanying drawings.

34. A mechanical device adapted to be removably connected to the mounting apparatus substantially as herein described with reference to and as illustrated by the accompanying drawings.

35. A mounting apparatus substantially as herein described with reference to and as illustrated by the accompanying drawings.

36. A method of configuring a mounting apparatus substantially as herein described with reference to and as illustrated by the accompanying drawings.