CROSS-REFERENCE

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of U.S Provisional Application Ser. No. 63/086,410 filed on October 1, 2020, entitled “ELECTRONIC DEVICE CASING FOR COUPLING TO A GARMENT” (attorney docket no. HB001/USP), the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to portable cases configured to house electronic devices or electronic units, and more specifically, but not exclusively, to portable wearable protective cases, for example, protective covers configured to be attached to garments and house one or more therapeutic electronic devices.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0003] All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0004] Ordinary protective cases for electronic devices, such as mobile phones are well known in the prior art. These cases primarily aim to protect electronic devices from possible damage and to facilitate carrying. Some of these cases may be wearable and may be referred to as “wearable technology” or “wearable devices” or just “wearable”. “Wearable Technology” may be defined as electronic technologies or computers that are incorporated into items of clothing and accessories which can comfortably be worn on the body, for example by attaching or including the case in clothing or designated garments. Generally, wearable technology can provide various functions or features such as sensory and scanning features not typically seen in mobile and laptop devices, such as biofeedback and tracking of physiological function.

[0005] The prior wearable devices can be less than ideal in at least some respects. Prior wearable devices such as wearable therapeutic devices can be larger than ideal for use in many portable applications or clothing and as a result inconvenient, unaesthetic, and unadaptable to the patient's body. Also, the cost of prior wearable therapeutic devices can be greater than would be ideal. The prior wearable therapeutic devices can be somewhat bulky, difficult to be placed or embedded in various locations of the patient’s body and the device’s case or electronics require more alignment than would be ideal in at least some instances. [0006] Specifically, in respect to wearable therapeutic devices, the devices must be configured to be attached to any portion of the body and accordingly easily be put on and taken off.

[0007] Although prior wearable therapeutic devices with decreased size have been proposed, those prior wearable therapeutic devices having decreased size are cumbersome, inconvenient for operation, typically bulgy when embedded in clothing, and cannot easily be put on and taken off.

[0008] In light of the above, an improved wearable case for coupling an electronic device such as therapeutic devices that overcomes at least some of the above-mentioned deficiencies of the prior wearable devices would be beneficial. Ideally, such a wearable case would be compact, easily integrated with other devices such as a sleeve, splint, bandage, brace, or cast, sufficiently rugged, low in cost, convenient and convenient to use.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a wearable device, the wearable device comprising: an elongated flexible strap comprising: a plurality of female snaps attached in a row at the bottom portion of the strap, wherein the flexible strap is attached at its distal ends to a garment forming an opening between the elongated flexible strap and the garment; a case comprising: a flexible body having a narrow-elongated portion and a broad section extending from said narrow elongated portion, wherein said flexible body is configured to be inserted to said opening; a plurality of male snaps lined in a row on the outer surface of said flexible body, wherein said plurality male snaps are configured to connect the case to the bottom portion of the strap; and a cavity thein for holding at least one electronic device.

[0010] In an embodiment, the elongated flexible strap is made of conductive material.

[0011] In an embodiment, the conductive elongated flexible strap is electrically connected to two or more conductive elements in the garment for transmitting electrical pulses from the electrical device to a user body.

[0012] In an embodiment, the conductive elongated flexible strap is electrically connected at each of its distal ends to one or more conductive elements embedded in or attached to the garment for transmitting electrical pulses from the electrical device to a user body.

[0013] In an embodiment, the conductive elements are conductive straps embedded in the garment. [0014] In an embodiment, the plurality of male snaps are configured to attach the electronic device to the case.

[0015] In an embodiment, some or all of said plurality of male snaps are made of conductive material. [0016] In an embodiment, the some or all of said plurality of female snaps are made of conductive material.

[0017] In an embodiment, some or all of said plurality of conductive male snaps are attached to said case.

[0018] In an embodiment, some or all of said plurality of conductive male snaps are attached to said case and said electronic device.

[0019] In an embodiment, the electronic device comprises a Printed Circuit Board (PCB).

[0020] In an embodiment, the PCB comprises two or more circuit board layers, wherein the two or more circuit board layers are connected one on top of the other.

[0021] In an embodiment, the plurality of male snaps are embedded or attached to the Printed Circuit Board (PCB).

[0022] In an embodiment, the plurality of male snaps are embedded or compressed on a top layer of the two or more circuit board layers of the PCB.

[0023] In an embodiment, the female snaps or male snaps are configured to activate the electronic device once the female snaps and male snaps are attached one to the other.

[0024] In an embodiment, the plurality of male snaps are attached to the outer surface of the case and wherein the compatible female snaps of the snap fasteners are attached to the inner part of the elongated flexible strap.

[0025] In an embodiment, the wearable device comprising a housing for holding said electronic device or said PCB.

[0026] In an embodiment, the PCB is configured to be compressed to said housing and said case.

[0027] In an embodiment, the housing is configured to cover or surround said PCB.

[0028] In an embodiment, the wearable device comprising various fastening mechanisms for connecting the case to the elongated flexible strap.

[0029] In an embodiment, the various fastening mechanisms are made of or include a conductive material.

[0030] In an embodiment, the case comprises an elongated strip section extending from the distal end of the case to the center of the case and wherein the broad section comprises two sections extending, respectively, from each side of the elongated strip section at the center or away from the center of the case up to the opposite distal forming two wing shaped sections.

[0031] In an embodiment, the two wing shaped sections may be curved in an angle P with respect to an axis X of a Cartesian X-Y-axis. [0032] In an embodiment, the broad section is used to indicate which side of the case should be positioned up and which down with respect to the user’s body part and for easy positioning on the body.

[0033] In an embodiment, the electronic device is a therapeutic electronic device.

[0034] In an embodiment, the therapeutic electronic device comprises one or more waveform generators configured to generate electronic pulses to treat the user’s pain.

[0035] In an embodiment, the case comprises one or more opening at the top surface of the case for the male snaps to protrude from the PCB.

[0036] In an embodiment, the male snaps and female snaps are magnetic or comprise magnetic elements.

[0037] In an embodiment, the PCB comprise strain resistant areas between snaps section and component section.

[0038] In an embodiment, the male snaps may be compressed above and below circuit boards and case together.

[0039] In an embodiment, the male snaps may be soldered after the male snaps are compressed mechanically to the one or more circuit boards.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0040] A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present disclosure will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of embodiments of the present disclosure are utilized, and the accompanying drawings. [0041] Figures 1A -IE show perspective views of a device attached to various body portions of a user, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0042] Figures IF -II show various perspective views of the case attached to the strap using four separated snap fasteners, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0043] Figures 2A -2C show various perspective views of the case comprising four male snap fasteners for attaching the case to the strap, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0044] Figures 3A -3C show various perspective views of a case which do not include snap fasteners, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0045] Figures 4A -4D show perspective views of a strap, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure; and [0046] Figure 5 shows a method of coupling a case comprising a therapeutic electronic device to a user’s clothing using a fastening mechanism, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0047] Figure 6A-Figure 6H show another embodiment of a device comprising additional snaps on the bottom of the case;

[0048] Figure 7A, Figure 7B and Figure 7C show various perspective views of a case which includes snap fasteners on the bottom of the case, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0049] Figure 8A, Figure 8B and Figure 8C show, respectively, isometric side view, top view and top-side view of a circuit board which may be placed or included in an electrical device which may further be inserted in a case, such as case as illustrated in figure 11, in accordance with embodiments; [0050] Figure 8D shows an isometric top-side view of the various elements of a PCB including the devices circuit boards, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0051] Figure 9A, Figure 9B and Figure 9C show, respectively, isometric top view, bottom view and top-side view of a circuit board, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure; [0052] Figure 10A shows a top-side view of a housing for holding one or more circuit boards in a case, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0053] Figure 10B shows an isometric top-side view of the PCB compressed into the housing, in accordance with one embodiment; of the present disclosure

[0054] Figure 11 shows a top view of a case attached to a sleeve, in accordance with embodiments;

[0055] Figure 12A shows male snap and snap cap in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0056] Figure 12B shows the inner side of the male snap and snap cap in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0057] In the following description, various aspects of the invention will be described. For the purposes of explanation, specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that there are other embodiments of the invention that differ in details without affecting the essential nature thereof. Therefore, the invention is not limited by that which is illustrated in the figure and described in the specification, but only as indicated in the accompanying claims, with the proper scope determined only by the broadest interpretation of said claims. [0058] Current textile industry entrepreneurs and companies provide solutions related to the textile industry challenges and are, typically, unfamiliar with electronics. On the other hand, the electronics industry has its own specified solutions and is usually unfamiliar with textiles' needs and challenges. As a result, known snaps or buttons and any fasten mechanisms are used as fasteners from textile to textile with no consideration for electrical conductivity.

[0059] Therefore connecting electrical devices and systems mechanically and electrically to textiles, such as to a garment (patient cloths or sportsman clothes) presents a new challenge.

[0060] The configurations disclosed herein can be combined in one or more of many ways to provide improved portable cases configured to house electronic devices or electronic units, and more specifically, but not exclusively, to portable wearable electroceutical devices, for example, protective covers configured to be attached to garments and house one or more electronic devices such as therapeutic electronic devices using electroceutical case and strap.

[0061] Electroceuticals are a new category of therapeutic agents which act by targeting the neural circuits of organs. The therapy involves mapping the neural circuitry and delivering neural impulses to these specific targets. The impulse is administered via an implantable device. In cardiology, besides pacemaker, defibrillation and resynchronization applications it could have usefulness in heart failure, atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease, myocarditis, resistant hypertension, atrial and ventricular tachyarrhythmias, pulseless electrical activity, and refractory angina.

[0062] One or more components of the configurations disclosed herein can be combined with each other in many ways.

[0063] Devices and methods as described herein include a wearable device to encase an electronic and/or electric device such as a therapeutic electric or electroceutical device. The wearable device comprising: an elongated flexible strap, such as a conductive flexible strap configured to be attached to a user garment; a case configured to be attached to the strap using one or more fasten mechanisms, such as a conductive fasten mechanism, the case comprising: a flexible body having a narrow elongated portion and a board section extending from the narrow elongated portion, a cavity therein for holding an electronic and/or electrical device such as the therapeutic device.

[0064] Specifically, in accordance with some embodiments, there are provided devices and methods for attaching an active medical device such as the therapeutic device or to a user garment.

[0065] More specifically, the wearable device comprising: an elongated flexible strap comprising: one or more buttons such as conductive snap fasteners for example four female conductive snaps attached, for example in a row at the bottom portion of the conductive strap, wherein the elongated flexible strap may be attached at its distal ends to a garment, such as a user cloth, forming an opening between the elongated flexible strap and the garment; a case comprising: a flexible body having a narrow-elongated portion and a broad section extending from said narrow elongated portion, wherein said flexible body is configured to be inserted to said opening; one or more buttons such as conductive snap fasteners, for example, four male conductive snaps lined in a row on the outer surface of said flexible body, wherein said four male snaps are configured to connect the case to the strep (e.g. electrically connect), for example to the bottom portion of the strap; and a cavity thein for holding at least one electronic or electric device such as an active medical device e.g. a therapeutic device.

[0066] Advantageously, the snaps and location of the elongated flexible strap which are connected to one another using one or more snaps make the wearable device not only look good but also more practical since it is easier for a user to line up the snaps in a row and avoid slipups while placing it on his garment. Additionally, the device in accordance with embodiments including the specific structure and snaps provides an easier and fast way to attach an electronic/electric device to a garment by for example pressing down on the smooth back of the female snaps on the strap (which when placed on the user without the device does not bother him because the snaps are female snaps) while the male snaps are attached to the case.

[0067] According to some embodiments, an electronic/electric device such as the therapeutic electronic device may be installed and/or embedded in the wearable case.

[0068] The wearable cases disclosed herein may include any type of case, protective case, cover, protective cover, encasement, protective encasement, shell, protective shell, crush-resistant case, crush proof case, water proof case, water-resistant case, and/or combinations thereof.

[0069] Systems, devices and methods in accordance with embodiments overcome the following challenges relating to connecting electrical device mechanically and electrically to textiles, such as garments:

• how to ensure stretchable textile snaps line up with non-stretchable snaps on device;

• how to assemble magnetic snap on PCB, since component and solder sticks to it;

• how to protect PCB from vibrations of forceful push-pull snap connections;

• how to ensure a mechanical connection is solid enough for device not to fall off;

• how to ensure a steady electrical connection with only solder snaps can pop off PCB;

• in using flexible PCB mechanical force may sometimes lose the contra needed for snapping off [0070] To overcome these challenges the systems and methods in accordance with embodiments comprise a case having a cavity for housing an electronic device, wherein the electronic device comprising one or more rigid-flex circuit boards and wherein the case and/or the rigid-flex circuit boards comprise snap fastener mechanism including one or more snap fasteners (e.g. snaps) and component.

[0071] In an embodiment, the rigid-flex circuit boards comprise strain resistant areas between the snaps section and component section.

[0072] In an embodiment, the snaps comprise snap portions that may be compressed above and below the circuit board.

[0073] In an embodiment, the snaps may be compressed above and below circuit boards and case together.

[0074] In an embodiment, the snaps may be soldered after snaps are compressed mechanically to the one or more circuit boards.

[0075] As used herein, like characters refer to like elements.

[0076] Referring now to the drawings, Figure 1A, Figure IB, Figure 1C, Figure ID, Figure IE and Figure IF show perspective views of a device 100, such as a wearable device attached to various body parts of a user 101 by attaching the device 100 to the respective user’s garment such as shirt or pants and the like, in accordance with embodiments. Specifically, Figure 1A and Figure IB show respectively upper-side view and side view of the device 100 attached to a sleeve 102 fastened accordingly to the user’s 101 arms, Figure 1C and Figure ID show perspective side views of the device 100 attached to the user’s pants 104 and fastened accordingly to the user’s leg, and Figure IE shows a perspective side view of the device 100 attached to the sides of the user’s undershirt 105 and accordingly to the user’s torso.

[0077] In accordance with embodiments, and as illustrated in Figure 1A the device 100 may be modular including for example two main subunits: a case 110, and one or more straps such as a single strap 120.

[0078] In accordance with embodiments, the device 100 is contoured toward the user’s 101 body enabling comfortable and easy placing of case 110 on the user’s clothes, such as shirt, pants and the like.

[0079] In accordance with embodiments, case 110 may include or may embed one or more electronic devices or elements such as one or more therapeutic electric or electroceutical devices configured to be attached to a user’s garment and treat the source of the user’s pain by accelerating the healing of cells and tissues of the user 101.

[0080] In accordance with embodiments, case 110 may be any casing, cover, that at least partially and/or completely covers one or more electronic devices or elements and protects the one or more electronic devices or elements installed in case 110.

[0081] In accordance with embodiments, strap 120 is configured and enabled to couple the case 110 to the user garment’s 130 outer surfaces using one or more fasten mechanisms such as one or more buttons or snap fasteners 121. The one or more buttons or snap fasteners 121 are configured to fasten the outer surface of the case 110 to the bottom surface of the strap 120 and the bottom surface of the case 110 to the garment 130 (e.g. sleeve 102).

[0082] According to one embodiment, one or more straps, for example, the single strap 120 may be embedded and/or attached and/or sewn to the garment 130. For example, the strap 120 may be sewn and/or fastened in any known attachment method at its distal ends 122 and 124 to the garment 130, forming an opening below the loose strap 120 to enable insertion of the case 110 below the strap 120 and above the garment and further clipping the case 110 to the strap 120 using a fastening mechanism such as the one or more snap fasteners 121, so the case 110 may be perfectly fixed and fastened, for example at its center and/or in proximity to the case center (e.g. 1,2,3, or more cm from the center of the case) to the user garment 130 in any selected body portion, arm, leg, torso, etc.

[0083] Specifically, as illustrated in Figure 1A-1E the case 110 may be inserted under the strap 120 so the outer surface of the case 110 which includes one or more studs (e.g. male snaps) of the one or more snap fasteners 121 may be fastened to the compatible sockets (e.g. female snaps) of the snap fasteners 121 located at the outer part of the strap 120.

[0084] Advantageously, in operation, case 110 may be easily placed on or released from a patient (e.g. user 101) cloth using, for example, a single hand. For example, the palm of the patient’s hand may slip under the case 110 with the back of the hand against the patient’s body and his thumb presses the snaps (e.g., male snaps) on the strap 120 that holds the case 110 in place between the strap 120 and the sleeve 102 on the user’s 101 body.

[0085] Figure IF, Figure 1G, and Figure 1H show various perspective views of the case 110 attached to the strap 120 using, for example, four separated snap fasteners, in accordance with embodiments. Specifically, Figure IF shows an isometric upper view of the device 100, Figure 1G shows an isometric back view of the device 100 and Figure 1H shows an isometric side view of the device 100. [0086] According to one embodiment, the elongated strap 120 is a flexible strap made of conductive material and/or includes conductive elements configured and enabled to electrically transmit electrical pulses. The conductive elongated flexible strap is electrically connected to two or more conductive elements in the garment for transmitting the electrical pulses from the electrical device to a user's body. For example, the conductive elongated flexible strap 124 is electrically connected at each of its distal ends 124 and 122 to one or more conductive elements embedded in or attached to the garment for transmitting electrical pulses from the electrical device to a user body.

[0087] In some cases, the one or more snap fasteners 121 (e.g. female snaps) may be conductive and may be electrically connected to the conductive elongated flexible strap 120 via one or more wires and further to one or more conductive elastic straps embedded in the garment. Examples of conductive elastic straps may be the sleeve and straps 1122’, 1124’, 1126’ and 1128’ embedded in the sleeve 1110 as illustrated in Figure 11. It is stressed that device 11 may be attached to any part of user clothes and body.

[0088] Figures 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 2C show various perspective isometric views of the case 110 comprising one or more buttons such as four male snap fasteners 242, 244, 246, 248 for attaching the case 110 to the strap 120, in accordance with embodiments. Specifically, Figure 2A shows an isometric top side view of case 110, Figure 2B shows an isometric back view of case 110 and Figure 1C shows an isometric upper view of case 110, in accordance with embodiments.

[0089] According to one embodiment, case 110 may be configured in a flexible manner and may be shaped according to the user’s body, e.g. legs, arms, shoulder or torso as illustrated in Figures 1A- 1D.

[0090] In accordance with embodiments, case 110 may be biocompatible. For example, the case may be made of and/or have a shape that is not injurious to living tissue; not having toxic or harmful effects on biological function. According to some embodiments the case is made of flexible plastic or biocompatible flexible plastic or a sustainable flexible plastic or a combination thereof.

[0091] In accordance with embodiments, case 110 is rugged and won't crack when dropped.

[0092] In accordance with embodiments, case 110 is soft and comfortable on the user’s body for normal unobstructed activity throughout the day and extra comfort while sleeping.

[0093] In accordance with embodiments, case 110 is water-resistant.

[0094] In accordance with embodiments, case 110 may be lightweight, comfortable for easy gripping by hand and allows normal functioning of the patient's body while wearing the case 110, walking, running or moving the arms or torso and the like. [0095] According to one embodiment, case 110 may be made of a single solid material.

[0096] According to one embodiment, case 110 may be a non-conductive silicone case.

According to other embodiments, the case 110 may be made of various different materials such as flexible and/or rigid materials connected to one another using adhesive materials or any known in the art binding techniques.

[0097] According to one embodiment, case 110 may be flexible and may be made of silicone. In some cases, the fastening mechanism 240 including one or more snap fasteners, such as the four male snap fasteners 242, 244, 246, 248 may be conductive snaps and may be integrated into a non-conductive silicone case such as case 110. In some cases, the fastening mechanism may be embedded and/or attached to a circuit board, such as circuit board 800 or circuit board 900 shown in Figure 8A and Figure 9A. In some cases, the snap fasteners may be compressed to a PCB such as PCB 222, and further to the case so the case and the snaps would be one unit.

[0098] According to one embodiment, case 110 may be made of any material or combination of materials including, for example, one or more of plastic, silicone, elastomer, metal, glass, ceramic, wood, and/or combinations thereof.

[0099] According to one embodiment, case 110 may be a Flexible case such as a NinjaFlex TPU- Specially Formulated Thermoplastic polyurethane.

[00100] According to one embodiment, the flexible case, such as case 110 may be made of silicone. In an embodiment, Conductive snaps made of silicone can be integrated into non-conductive silicone case and Compressed around the PCB, so the case and the snaps would be one unit.

[00101] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in Figure 2A, Figure 2B, Figure 2C and Figure 2D the case 110 includes a housing body 215 having an opening 216 and a cavity 218 therein configured and enabled to receive and hold one or more electronic devices and/or electronic elements and/or electronic units such as one or more circuit boards, for example, a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) 222.

[00102] According to one embodiment, case 110 includes a fastening mechanism 240 including one or more snap fasteners, such as the four male snap fasteners 242, 244, 246, 248 lined up parallelly on the outer surface of the case 110, with respect to an X-axis of a Cartesian X-Y axis, to enable easy and comfortable fastening of the case 110 to the strap 120.

[00103] Respectively, as illustrated in Figures 1A -1H and Figures 4A-4D, four female snaps fasteners are lined up parallelly with respect to an X-axis of a Cartesian X-Y axis on the strap 120 interior (e.g., the potion which faces the garment side) to enable easy fastening of the case 110 to the strap 120 and further to the user cloth (e.g., sleeve 102, pants, etc.).

[00104] According to some embodiments, the case and the strap may dock with various different textiles such as knee or hand sleeves at a user pants shirt and the various location at the user’s body.

[00105] According to some embodiments, the snap fasteners are round.

[00106] Various other shapes, changes and variations which will be apparent to those skilled in the art may be made in the snap fasteners. For example, the male snap fasteners may be attached to the strap 120 or to a garment (e.g., to the user clothes such as the user sleeve as illustrated in Figure 7A and Figure 11) and female snap fasteners may be attached accordingly to the case.

[00107] According to some embodiments, the fastening mechanism 240 or 840 may be magnetic or may include magnetic material(s) or magnetic element(s), for example, to enable guidance, position and attachment of the case 110 or case 710 to the garment. Specifically, some or all the female snaps and/or male snaps may be magnetic or may include magnetic elements.

[00108] According to some embodiments, the fastening mechanisms are configured to enable, both the mechanical and electrical connection between the case and the garment. For example, the fastening mechanism 240 (e.g. male snaps such as four magnetic snaps) may be soldered and/or compressed onto the circuit board of a PCB such as PCB 222 in the electronic device and protruding through the case 110 as shown in Figure 2B to enable connection with four corresponding snaps placed on the garment /the elastic strap harness. According to some embodiments the PCB 222 comprises strain resistant areas between snaps section and component section.

[00109] According to some embodiments, the fastening mechanism 240 (e.g. the one or more snaps) may be wired, for example via one or more wires embedded in case 110 to the PCB 222 as shown for example in Figure 8A or Figure 9A.

[00110] According to one embodiment, the fastening mechanism 240 (e.g. the one or more female/male snaps on the case/strap) may be made of or may include a conductive material and may be embedded and/or connected directly to the PCB 222 or any electronic device or element embedded in the case.

[00111] According to some embodiments, the fastening mechanisms 240 (e.g. the one or more snaps) are clamped and connected directly via the case to an electronic device such as the PCB 222, for example, to hold and/or keep the PCB fastened to the case and in place as shown in Figure 8A-8D and Figure 9A. [00112] According to some embodiments, one or more 3D printing methods and systems may be used to print the conductive snaps as part of case 110 and compress the PCB 222 through conductive parts of the fastening mechanisms on the case.

[00113] According to some embodiments, the PCB 222 may be a flexible or rigid PCB 222. Preferably, PCB 222 is a flexible PCB and the fastening mechanism 240 (e.g. the one or more female/male snaps on the case/strap) are compressed above and below the PCB. It is stressed that compression of snaps such as male snaps to the flexible PCB 222 is possible as PCB is flexible, while if PCB was rigid compressing the snaps would crack the PCB, hence compression goes together with a flexible PCB. For example, Figure 12A shows male snap 1201 and snap cap 1202 while Figure 12B shows the inner side of the male snap 1201 and snap cap 1202. In accordance with embodiments, male snap 1201 and snap cap 1202 may be compressed to PCB such as PCB 222, respectively, from both sides of the PCB. The snaps such as male snap 1201 and/or snap cap 1202 may be conductive and/or magnetic.

[00114] In some cases, the electronic elements and/or electronic units and/or electronic devices are configured to generate electronic pulses to treat the user’s pain using, for example, one or more waveform generators, devices and/or methods as shown for example in Figure 11.

[00115] For example, case 110 comprises an embedded wiring and/or PCB 222 and/or other electronic devices to provide antioxidant microcurrent electricity delivered to the human skin at strategic acupuncture points using an integrated constant voltage, constant current, variable voltage or variable current circuit. In some cases, the PCB may be electrically connected via one or more conductive straps embedded in the garment comprising the electronic devices to provide antioxidant microcurrent electricity delivered to the human skin.

[00116] In some cases, the PCB 222 may include one or more waveforms for generating transcutaneous and percutaneous applications for electron delivery in micro doses for health. Examples of such waveform generators devices and methods are described in PCT application publication number W02020021526 entitled ’’Regulated current power source”, and US Patent number 8,825,174 entitled "Therapeutic electric antioxidant clothing apparatus and method", the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[00117] In some cases, the PCB 222, may include or may be connected to one or more waveform generators for synthesizing an arbitrary periodic waveform at a specified frequency. The waveform generator may comprise a memory block having a predetermined fixed memory size; a programmable addressing device containing a programmed output loop; and a digital-to-analog converter. The programmable addressing device is configured to synthesize an arbitrary periodic waveform at a specified frequency. Specifically, the method comprises: providing a memory block having a predetermined fixed memory size, wherein: the memory block contains data values for one cycle of the arbitrary periodic waveform; and wherein the memory is accessed via a memory block index; providing a programmed output loop for outputting data values from the memory block according to the memory block index; determining a loop execution time for a single execution of the programmed output loop; providing an iteration counter having an iteration counter value, for counting a number of times the programmed output loop is executed; initializing the iteration counter value to zero; executing the programmed output loop to perform: calculating the memory block index as an integer conversion of a product of the iteration counter value, the fixed memory size, the loop execution time, and the specified frequency; retrieving waveform data from the memory block according to the memory block index; outputting retrieved waveform data to a digital-to-analog converter; and incrementing the iteration counter value.

[00118] In some cases, the PCB 222 may comprise or may be a regulated current source device for providing a regulated current to a resistive load, the regulated current source comprising: a primary electrical energy source providing an input voltage; a voltage booster that receives the input voltage and provides an adjustable voltage from a power-out point, wherein the adjustable voltage is controllable via a control signal at a control point of the voltage booster; a current regulator, which regulates a current through the resistive load according to a predetermined regulated load current; and a controller for measuring a voltage drop across the current regulator, and for controlling the voltage booster via the control point according to the voltage drop.

[00119] In accordance with embodiments, the case 110 and strap 120 may be designed and shaped for easy and comfortable gripping by hand. According to one embodiment, case 110 may be aerodynamically shaped, having for example an “aircraft” shape. For example, as shown in Figure 2A and Figure 2C the case 110 may include a narrow portion 255 and a broad portion 257. Specifically, case 110 may have an ‘aerodynamic-like’ shape including an elongated strip 252 section extending from the distal end 259 to the center of the case 110 and two sections 254 and 256 extending, respectively, from each side of the elongated strip 252. In some embodiments, the two sections 254 and 256 may extend from the center or away from the center (for example in proximity to the center) up to the opposite distal end 261 of the strap 252. [00120] According to some embodiments, each of the two sections 254 and 256 may be, respectively, shaped as a “wing”, wherein each wing is shaped as a triangle (e.g. in the form of a delta wing) having an angle a with respect to an axis X of a Cartesian X-Y-axis. In some cases, angle a may be in the range of 30-60 deg.

[00121] In some cases, the strap 252 may have an elongated plane section 253 which may incline to the sides along the plane section of the strap 252, and further, extend from the center or away from the center, up to the distal end 261 of the strip 252 forming the "wing” shaped sections 254 and 256.

[00122] According to some embodiments, the two "wing” shaped sections 254 and 256 may be curved in an angle P with respect to an axis X of a Cartesian X-Y-axis. In some cases, the angle P may be in the range of 0-90 degrees. Advantageously, the curved and elongated shape of case 110 enables a perfect match of the case 110 to various body sections of the patient. For example, as illustrated in Figure 1 A the bottom of the case, may naturally match the curves of a patient arm, leg or torso enabling optimal and comfortable contact between the case 110 and the user’s body while keeping an aerodynamic and avoiding protrusion of the case 110 from the user’s body.

[00123] In accordance with embodiments, the broad portion 257 (e.g. the two "wing” shaped sections 254 and 256) may be used to indicate which side of the case 110 should be positioned up and which down with respect to the user’s body part and for easy positioning on the body, as illustrated in Figures 1A-1D. For example, as illustrated in Figure 1A the case 110 is attached to the patient so the narrow section is positioned below the broad section along the patient arm.

[00124] According to one embodiment, case 110 is designed to protrude on the sides of the strap 120 to reveal one or more elements embedded or attached to the case 110 such as the case 110 logos, etc.

[00125] According to some embodiments, case 110 may include an electronic device 140 for generating and transmitting electrical impulses from the device 240 (e.g. and the case) to and thru one or more conductive channels and/or electrodes judiciously placed on the garment to the user body.

[00126] In accordance with embodiments, device 240 may be embedded in case 110, for example on the case’s cavity 218. In some cases, device 240 (e.g. and the PCB 222) may be further attached (e.g. compressed) to a housing, such as the housing 1000 of Figure 10A (or housing having other shapes) surrounding the device and having the shape and size of the cavity 218.

[00127] In accordance with embodiments, various components of the electronic device 240 may be implemented on one or more circuit boards such as PCB 222. [00128] In some cases, the electronic device 240 may include or may be connected to a dedicated connection such as one or more ports or interface connections, for example, as shown in Figure 2B a single port 224 (e.g. USB-C) that may be used either for charging or for use with cables that terminate in electrodes.

[00129] In some cases, the electronic device 240 may comprise a communication module configured to be in communication with a server and/or other external modules, devices and systems such as one or more speakers and/or displays and/or the user’s electronic devices and Apps such as the user’s mobile phone and/or smart phone and/or phone apps to provide information on the device status. For example, the electronic device 240 may include wireless communication circuitry 226 to couple to the PCB 222 within the housing and communicate with a remote server. The wireless communication circuitry 226 may include one or more receivers and transmitters and/or transceivers for receiving/transmitting data (e.g. captured images and/or sensory data) to a remote module such as a remote server.

[00130] In some cases, the communication circuitry 226 is configured to transmit collected data to a cloud-based server which is configured to analyse the data transmitted from the communication device, and a device configured to receive analysis results from the cloud-based server and present the analysis results to a user.

[00131] In accordance with embodiments, device 240 may include one or more indicators such as vibration indicators and/or light indicators configured and enabled to indicate the status of the device 100 (e.g. whether the device is an ON or OFF mode) and treatment is being provided. A detailed example of an electronic device is illustrated herein below with respect to Figures 8A-8D and Figures 9A-9C.

[00132] Figures 3A -3C show various perspective views of case 310 which do not include snap fasteners, in accordance with embodiments. Figure 3A shows an isometric top-side view of case 310, Figure 3B shows an isometric top view of case 310 and Figure 3C shows an isometric back view of the case 310.

[00133] Figure 4A, Figure 4B, Figure 4C, and Figure 4D show perspective views of the strap 120 comprising one or more fasten mechanisms such as one or more buttons or snap fasteners 421, in accordance with embodiments. Specifically, Figure 4A shows an isometric view of the outer surface of the strap while Figure 4B shows an isometric view of the interior side of the strap. Figure 4C shows an isometric side view of the strap 120 and Figure 4D shows an isometric upper side of the strap, in accordance with embodiments. [00134] In some embodiments, the strap may be made of an elongated flexible fabric, such as a stretchy fabric (e.g. Polyester). In some cases, the strap is knitted or woven with nylon, Polyester, spandex, Lycra or a blend.

[00135] In some cases, as explained herein above the strap 120 (e.g. elongated flexible strap) is made of conductive material.

[00136] In some cases, the conductive elongated flexible strap (e.g. strap 120) is electrically connected to two or more conductive elements in a garment for transmitting electrical pulses from the electrical device to a user body. For example, the conductive elongated flexible strap is electrically connected at each of its distal ends to one or more conductive elements embedded in or attached to the garment for transmitting electrical pulses from the electrical device to a user body.

[00137] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in Figure 4A multiple snaps such as four male snaps 422, 424, 426 and 428 are positioned on the outer side 401 of the strap 120 while, respectively, as shown in Figure 4B at the backside of the strap 120 four female snaps 422’, 424’, 426’ and 428’ are attached to the interior side 402 of the strap 120. In operation, the female snaps 422’, 424’, 426’, and 428’ are fastened respectively to the male snaps positioned on the outer surface side of the case 110. Advantageously, the female snaps 422’, 424’, 426’ and 428’ on the strap 120 make for comfortable wear, as there are no male bumps that protrude into the patient body. Moreover, the backside of the female snaps is attractive and round and forms a unique arrangement, lined up in a vertical line to make it easier to match up all four connections. In some cases, the female snaps are conductive and/or include conductive elements connected to the strap and further to the conductive straps in the garment (e.g. such as straps 1122’, 1124’, 11226’, 1128’) shown in Figure 11).

[00138] Reference is now made to Figure 5 which illustrates a method 500 of coupling a case comprising an electronic device such as a therapeutic electronic device to a user’s clothing using a fastening mechanism, in accordance with embodiments. Step 510 includes attaching a flexible strap, such as strap 120 at its distal ends to the clothing forming an opening between the flexible strap and the clothing. Step 520 includes inserting a case, such as a case 110 into the formed opening, e.g. below the flexible strap and above the clothing. Step 530 includes clipping the case to the strap using the fasten mechanism, for example clipping male snaps of the case to female snaps of the strap. Step 540 includes activating the electronic device such as the therapeutic electronic device. In some cases, the therapeutic electronic device may be activated simultaneously once the case is clipped to the flexible strap (as the case/strap/snaps are conductive and electrically in communication to one another).

[00139] In one embodiment, the strap contains a flexible PCB Sewn inside. [00140] In another embodiment, the case contains one or more removable batteries Connected with a USB-C connection.

[00141] Figure 6A, Figure 6B, Figure 6C, Figure 6D, Figure 6E, Figure 6F, Figure 6G and Figure 6H show other embodiments of a case 610 and strap 620 comprising additional fasten mechanism 625. For example, the fastening mechanism may be one or more buttons such as one or more snap fasteners located on the bottom of the case 610. For example, case 610 may include four male snaps (e.g. snaps 622, 624, 626, 628), alternatively four female snaps on the bottom of the case for connecting the case 610 to the user’s garment via respective four male/female snaps attached to the garment.

[00142] According to some embodiments, the fastening mechanism 630 (e.g. the four male snaps) on the top of the case 610 serve as a mechanical connection for attaching the case to the four snaps (e.g. female snaps) on the strap 620 whereas the snaps on the bottom of the case, e.g. the four female/male snaps on the bottom of the device case serve as electronically connecting the electronic device to the garment in a line opposite in place to where the male snaps are on the top of the case, are used for mechanically and/or magnetically connect the case to respective four male snaps in a line situated on the outer surface of an Electronic textiles (e-textiles) garment. The e-textiles are textiles that are or are part of, electronic components that create systems capable of sensing, heating, lighting or transmitting data. In accordance with embodiments, E-textile which the bottom snaps are connected to transmit the electric current to the body from the electronic device. Current flows through the snaps (e.g. to the E-textiles conductive elastic straps- to the E-textiles conductive electrodes- to the body (as shown for example in Figure 11).

[00143] In other words, the snaps on the bottom of the case serve as the electrical connection between the device via the female/male snaps of the case to respective male/female snaps of the textile garment enabling seamlessly electrical impulses transmitted from the device (e.g. case) and thru conductive channels on the garment to four electrodes judiciously placed on the garment. In some embodiments, the garment is preferably knitted and not woven to allow for stretchability. The garment may be a sleeve for elbow, knee or ankle, a body shirt or a sock or head band/cover, etc. as needed for the desired transmission of the electric impulses.

[00144] Specifically, Figure 6B shows isometric top view and bottom view wherein the case 620 comprises snaps on top and below the case 610.

[00145] Figure 6C shows side view of the case 610 comprising snaps on top and below the case 620. [00146] Figure 6D shows a case comprising snaps on its top and not on its bottom, in accordance with embodiments.

[00147] Figure 6E shows a case and strap wherein a set of snaps 630 are included on the strap connected to the top surface of the case 610 and additional snaps 625 at the bottom of the case 610 configured to be connected to a garment, in accordance with embodiments.

[00148] Figure 6F shows side view of a case comprising snaps only on its top surface while Figure 6G shows a side view of a case comprising snaps (male/female snaps) on both sides, e.g. on the top and on the bottom of the case, in accordance with embodiments. Figure 6H shows additional view of a case, in accordance with embodiments.

[00149] Figure 7A, Figure 7B, and Figure 7C show various perspective views of case 710 which includes snap fasteners 721 on the bottom of the case, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, Figure 7A shows an isometric bottom-side view of case 710, Figure 7B shows an isometric upper view of case 710 and Figure 3C shows an isometric side view of case 710.

[00150] In accordance with one embodiment, the snap fasteners 721 may be attached or embedded to the bottom section of the case 710 which is further attached to a garment, for example to the outer surface of a user cloths such as the user’s sleeve, pants, etc. In some cases, the snap fasteners 721 are female snaps that are configured and enabled to be connected respectively to male snap fasteners attached or embedded to a garment such as a user sleeve or pants, and the like. Specifically, while in the case 110 and strap 120 of Figure 1A male snaps are attached to the top surface of the case and are configured to be attached (e.g., electrically), respectively, to female snaps at the bottom section of the strap 120, case 710 of Figure 7A comprises female snaps at the bottom surface of the case configured to be attached to respective male snaps on the garment e.g. (E-textile).

[00151] Figure 8A, Figure 8B, and Figure 8C show respectively isometric side view, top view and top-side view of a circuit board such as a PCB 800 (printed circuit board) which may be placed or included in an electrical device 801 which may further be inserted (e.g. embedded) in a case, such as case 710 as illustrated in figure 11, in accordance with an embodiment. It stressed that PCB 800 with male snaps may also be inserted to the case such as case 110 as illustrated in Figures 1A-1C.

[00152] The PCB 800 may include one or more layers of circuit boards, for example, two boards such as a snaps board 802, circuit board 804, and circuit board 803 connected vertically one on top of the other by one or more connectors such as board connector 806. [00153] According to one embodiment board 802 may comprise a fastening mechanism 840 comprising, for example, a plurality of snap fasteners such as four female snap fasteners which may accordingly be, for example magnetically, connected to male snap fasteners attached to a garment such as a sleeve shirt and the like. In some cases, for example, as in case 110 of Figure 1A-1C the male fasteners may be attached to the circuit board while the female snaps may be attached to the garment or to a strap such as a strap 120 which is connected to a garment, in accordance with embodiments.

[00154] According to one embodiment, the fastening mechanism 840 may be conductive. For example, the female snaps may be conductive female snaps electrically connected to the PCB 800 and specifically to circuit board 802 and further to E-textiles conductive elastic straps and E E-textiles conductive electrodes embedded in the user’s cloths configuring and enabling the flow of an electrical current from the PCB 800 generating electrical pulses to the user body.

[00155] According to one embodiment, the snaps (e.g. male and/or female snaps) may be conductive.

[00156] According to some embodiments, the snaps may be conductive and magnetic.

[00157] According to some embodiments, the PCB 800 or board 802 may be flexible or include flexible portions.

[00158] According to some embodiments the PCB 800 comprises strain resistant areas between snaps section and component section.

[00159] In some cases, the snap fasteners may be compressed to board 802, such as a flexible board. For example, the four female snaps may include accordingly four studs 812, 814, 816 and 818 compressed to the surface of the board 802 using four related caps 812’, 814’, 816’ and 818’ attached below board 802 and compressed to the studs and board 802.

[00160] In some cases, the snap fasteners may be soldered to board 802, such as a flexible board. For example, the four female snaps may include accordingly four studs 812, 814, 816 and 818 soldered to the to surface of the board 802 using four related caps 812’, 814’, 816’ and 818’ attached below board 802 and soldered to the studs and board 802.

[00161] In some cases, the snap fasteners may be soldered and compressed to board 802, such as a flexible board. For example, the four female snaps may include accordingly four studs 812, 814, 816 and 818 soldered and compressed to the to surface of the board 802 using four related caps 812’, 814’, 816’ and 818’ attached below board 802 soldered and compressed to the studs and board 802. [00162] According to some embodiments, the fastening mechanism 840 may be magnetic or may include magnetic material(s) or magnetic element(s), for example, to enable guidance, position and attachment of the case 110 to the garment.

[00163] According to some embodiments, PCB 800 further comprises one or more processors such as processor 850 attached to board 804. The processor is configured to control, activate and process data relating to the electronic device 801. The processor may be micro processor. The device may further include additional electrical components attached for example to board 804.

[00164] According to some embodiments, the device 801 includes one or more power sources such as battery 870 attached to board 804, a power button 880 attached for example to the bottom surface of board 804 and one or more indication lights such as one or more LEDS 890 for indicating the status of the following items:

Device status (on/off); Bluetooth connection, electric current transmission status (active/nonactive), etc.

[00165] According to one embodiment, the electronic device 801 further comprises a restart button 885, for automatically restarting the device and one or more connection ports such as interface connection port 887 for connecting the device to external computer and peripheral devices (such as a keyboard, game controllers, etc. In some cases, the connection port may be a USB or USB-C connection that may be used either for charging the battery of the device and/or for use with cables that terminate in electrodes.

[00166] Figure 8D shows an isometric top-side view of the various elements of the PCB including the devices circuit boards (e.g. boards 802 and 804) and electronic components (battery processors etc.) vertically connected one to the other with respect to Y-axis of an X-Y-Z a Cartesian X- Y-axis.

[00167] Figure 9A, Figure 9B and Figure 9C show, respectively, isometric top view, bottom view and top-side view of a circuit board 900, in accordance with another embodiment. Circuit board 900 is configured to hold all or some of the electronic elements included in PCB 800 or PCB 222. Circuit board 900 comprises a different configuration, size and shape compared to PCB 800 and is configured to hold components and elements, such as the electronic components, in a single circuit board, such as a single flat PCB.

[00168] In accordance with embodiments, the one or more circuit boards or electronic elements in PCB 900 are connected horizontally one to the other with respect to Y axis of an X-Y -Z a Cartesian X-Y-axis forming a single flat PCB layer. For example, as shown in Figures 9A-9C, circuit board 900 may include a main circuit board 910 layer which comprises a plurality of snaps such as female snaps 912, 914, 916 and 918 and a processor 950 while one or more power sources such as two batteries 970 may be vertically connected at each sides of the main circuit board, for example via one or more electric connections 972 and 974.

[00169] According to some embodiments, PCB 900 may include rigid sections and flexible sections. For example, the main circuit board 901 may be rigid, while connections 972 and 974 may be flexible. It is noted that PCB 900 may include other rigid/flexible sections.

[00170] Advantageously, the structure and design of PCB 900 provide a better space utilization of the case, such as case 710 or case 110 where various locations in the case such as the wing sections may include electronic elements. Moreover, as a result of space utilization, the dimensions of the case may be smaller, for example, thicker and ergonomically better designed.

[00171] According to other embodiments, other elements may be connected to the sides of the PCB 910, such as additional circuit boards and/or processors, and the like.

[00172] Figure 10A shows a top-side view of a housing 1000 for holding one or more circuit boards in a case, in accordance with embodiments. Specifically, the housing 1000 may hold PCB 800 and may be inserted into a case cavity such as case 710.

[00173] In some embodiments, the housing may be made of silicon.

[00174] In some embodiments, the housing may be made of non-conductive silicon material.

[00175] In some embodiments, a housing may have the size and dimensioned such that the base may surround the circuit board and the circuit board may fit and be integrated into the housing 1000 forming an integrated unit 1001 as shown in Figure 10B and further both base and circuit board may be inserted into the cavity of a case. For example, the housing 1000 may have the size and dimensioned such that the housing 1000 may surround the circuit board 800 and the circuit board 800 may fit and be integrated into the housing 1000 forming an integrated one unit 1001 which may further be inserted into the cavity of case 710.

[00176] In some embodiment, the PCB such as PCB 222 or PCB 800 or PCB 900 and/or housing are formed in a shape and size so the housing, such as housing 1001 and case are compressed around the PCB forming a single unit.

[00177] Figure 10B shows an isometric top-side view of the PCB 800 compressed into the housing 1000 and surrounds by the housing 1000, in accordance with one embodiment.

[00178] Figure 11 shows a top view 1100 of a case 1110 attached to sleeve 1112, in accordance with embodiments. In some embodiments, case 1110 may be case 110 or case 910 illustrated, accordingly, in Figure 1A and Figure 9A. Case 1110 and sleeve 1112 include a fastening mechanism 1115 including for example four snap fasteners 1122, 1124 and 1126 and 1128. The snap fasteners 1122, 1124 and 1126 and 1128 may be conductive and/or may include one or more conductive elements which may be electrically connected to one or more conductive strips embedded in and/or attached to the sleeve 1112.

[00179] In one embodiment, four conductive male/f emale snaps of the snap fasteners 1122, 1124 and 1126 and 1128 may be attached or embedded in the sleeve 1112 and may be electrically connected to one or more conductive straps embedded and/or attached for example to the sleeve 1112 and/or to a strap connected to the sleeve (as illustrated in Figure 1A and Figure IB), while respectively four male/female snaps may be attached and/or embedded in the case 1110. More specifically, according to one embodiment, four conductive male snaps of the snaps 1122, 1124, 1126 and 1128 may respectively be connected to four conductive strips, such as conductive elastic strips 1122’, 1124’, 1126’ and 1128’ embedded in the sleeve 1110. Accordingly, four female snaps of the snaps 1122, 1124, 1126 and 1128 may be attached and stand out of case 1110. In operation, once the female and male snaps are connected the embedded electrodes in the sleeve close a loop with the electronic device in the case and through the user body and once the user switches the electrical device on by switch button 1130 or automatically by connecting the male and female snaps, electric pulses are generated, and transmitted through the conductive straps 1122’, 1124’, 1126’ and 1128’ and further, respectively, to one or more embedded electrodes 129 to create contact and transmit current through the body treat a user’s pain. In some embodiments, the conductive straps 1122’, 1124’, 1126’ and 1128’ may be made of silver and polyester. In some cases, one or more embedded electrodes 129 may be placed above the user sleeve elbow portion 131.

[00180] In some cases, an additional strap 1156 may cover the device to fix the case to the sleeve. The strap may be made of Polyester.

[00181] In some cases, snaps 1122, 1124, 1126 and 1128 may be magnetic.

[00182] It is stressed that the various case configuration may use various printed circuit boards, for example case 110 may include PCB 800 or PCB 900, or case 710 may include PCB 222 or PCB 800 or PCB 900. Additionally, the various cases may include various types of snaps-male/female attached below or above the case and straps.

[00183] The term ‘garment’ as used herein and through the specification may relate for example to cclothing such as fiber and textile material worn on the body of human or animals. [00184] In further embodiments, the processing unit may be a digital processing device including one or more hardware central processing units (CPU) that carry out the device’s functions. In still further embodiments, the digital processing device further comprises an operating system configured to perform executable instructions. In some embodiments, the digital processing device is optionally connected to a computer network. In further embodiments, the digital processing device is optionally connected to the Internet such that it accesses the World Wide Web. In still further embodiments, the digital processing device is optionally connected to a cloud computing infrastructure. In other embodiments, the digital processing device is optionally connected to an intranet. In other embodiments, the digital processing device is optionally connected to a data storage device.

[00185] In accordance with the description herein, suitable digital processing devices include, by way of non-limiting examples, server computers, desktop computers, laptop computers, notebook computers, sub-notebook computers, netbook computers, netpad computers, set-top computers, handheld computers, Internet appliances, mobile smartphones, tablet computers, personal digital assistants, video game consoles and vehicles. Those of skill in the art will recognize that many smartphones are suitable for use in the system described herein. Those of skill in the art will also recognize that select televisions with optional computer network connectivity are suitable for use in the system described herein. Suitable tablet computers include those with booklet, slate, and convertible configurations, known to those of skill in the art.

[00186] In some embodiments, the digital processing device includes an operating system configured to perform executable instructions. The operating system is, for example, software, including programs and data, which manages the device’s hardware and provides services for execution of applications. Those of skill in the art will recognize that suitable server operating systems include, by way of non-limiting examples, FreeBSD, OpenBSD, NetBSD®, Linux, Apple® Mac OS X Server®, Oracle® Solaris®, Windows Server®, and Novell® NetWare®. Those of skill in the art will recognize that suitable personal computer operating systems include, by way of non-limiting examples, Microsoft® Windows®, Apple® Mac OS X®, UNIX®, and UNIX-like operating systems such as GNU/Linux®. In some embodiments, the operating system is provided by cloud computing. Those of skill in the art will also recognize that suitable mobile smart phone operating systems include, by way of non-limiting examples, Nokia® Symbian® OS, Apple® iOS®, Research In Motion® BlackBerry OS®, Google® Android®, Microsoft® Windows Phone® OS, Microsoft® Windows Mobile® OS, Linux®, and Palm® WebOS®. [00187] In some embodiments, the device includes a storage and/or memory device. The storage and/or memory device is one or more physical apparatuses used to store data or programs on a temporary or permanent basis. In some embodiments, the device is volatile memory and requires power to maintain stored information. In some embodiments, the device is non-volatile memory and retains stored information when the digital processing device is not powered. In further embodiments, the non-volatile memory comprises flash memory. In some embodiments, the non-volatile memory comprises dynamic random-access memory (DRAM). In some embodiments, the non-volatile memory comprises ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM). In some embodiments, the nonvolatile memory comprises phase-change random access memory (PRAM). In other embodiments, the device is a storage device including, by way of non-limiting examples, CD-ROMs, DVDs, flash memory devices, magnetic disk drives, magnetic tapes drives, optical disk drives, and cloud computing based storage. In further embodiments, the storage and/or memory device is a combination of devices such as those disclosed herein.

[00188] In some embodiments, the digital processing device includes a display to send visual information to a user. In some embodiments, the display is a cathode ray tube (CRT). In some embodiments, the display is a liquid crystal display (LCD). In further embodiments, the display is a thin film transistor liquid crystal display (TFT-LCD). In some embodiments, the display is an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display. In various further embodiments, an OLED display is a passivematrix OLED (PMOLED) or active-matrix OLED (AMOLED) display. In some embodiments, the display is a plasma display. In other embodiments, the display is a video projector. In still further embodiments, the display is a combination of devices such as those disclosed herein.

[00189] In some embodiments, the digital processing device includes an input device to receive information from a user. In some embodiments, the input device is a keyboard. In some embodiments, the input device is a pointing device including, by way of non-limiting examples, a mouse, trackball, track pad, joystick, game controller, or stylus. In some embodiments, the input device is a touch screen or a multi-touch screen. In other embodiments, the input device is a microphone to capture voice or other sound input. In other embodiments, the input device is a video camera to capture motion or visual input. In still further embodiments, the input device is a combination of devices such as those disclosed herein.

[00190] In some embodiments, the system disclosed herein includes one or more non-transitory computer readable storage media encoded with a program including instructions executable by the operating system of an optionally networked digital processing device. In further embodiments, a computer readable storage medium is a tangible component of a digital processing device. In still further embodiments, a computer readable storage medium is optionally removable from a digital processing device.

[00191] In some embodiments, a computer readable storage medium includes, by way of nonlimiting examples, CD-ROMs, DVDs, flash memory devices, solid state memory, magnetic disk drives, magnetic tape drives, optical disk drives, cloud computing systems and services, and the like. In some cases, the program and instructions are permanently, substantially permanently, semipermanently, or non-transitorily encoded on the media. In some embodiments, the system disclosed herein includes at least one computer program, or use of the same. A computer program includes a sequence of instructions, executable in the digital processing device’s CPU, written to perform a specified task. Computer readable instructions may be implemented as program modules, such as functions, objects, Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), data structures, and the like, that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. In light of the disclosure provided herein, those of skill in the art will recognize that a computer program may be written in various versions of various languages.

[00192] The functionality of the computer readable instructions may be combined or distributed as desired in various environments. In some embodiments, a computer program comprises one sequence of instructions. In some embodiments, a computer program comprises a plurality of sequences of instructions. In some embodiments, a computer program is provided from one location. In other embodiments, a computer program is provided from a plurality of locations. In various embodiments, a computer program includes one or more software modules. In various embodiments, a computer program includes, in part or in whole, one or more web applications, one or more mobile applications, one or more standalone applications, one or more web browser plug-ins, extensions, addins, or add-ons, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, a computer program includes a mobile application provided to a mobile digital processing device. In some embodiments, the mobile application is provided to a mobile digital processing device at the time it is manufactured. In other embodiments, the mobile application is provided to a mobile digital processing device via the computer network described herein.

[00193] In view of the disclosure provided herein, a mobile application is created by techniques known to those of skill in the art using hardware, languages, and development environments known to the art. Those of skill in the art will recognize that mobile applications are written in several languages. Suitable programming languages include, by way of non-limiting examples, C, C++, C#, Objective-C, Java™, Javascript, Pascal, Object Pascal, Python™, Ruby, VB.NET, WML, and XHTML/HTML with or without CSS, or combinations thereof.

[00194] Suitable mobile application development environments are available from several sources. Commercially available development environments include, by way of non-limiting examples, AirplaySDK, alcheMo, Appcelerator®, Celsius, Bedrock, Flash Lite, .NET Compact Framework, Rhomobile, and WorkLight Mobile Platform. Other development environments are available without cost including, by way of non-limiting examples, Lazarus, MobiFlex, MoSync, and Phonegap. Also, mobile device manufacturers distribute software developer kits including, by way of non-limiting examples, iPhone and iPad (iOS) SDK, Android™ SDK, BlackBerry® SDK, BREW SDK, Palm® OS SDK, Symbian SDK, webOS SDK, and Windows® Mobile SDK.

[00195] Those of skill in the art will recognize that several commercial forums are available for distribution of mobile applications including, by way of non-limiting examples, Apple® App Store, Android™ Market, BlackBerry® App World, App Store for Palm devices, App Catalog for webOS, Windows® Marketplace for Mobile, Ovi Store for Nokia® devices, Samsung® Apps, and Nintendo® DSi Shop.

[00196] In some embodiments, the system disclosed herein includes software, server, and/or database modules, or use of the same. In view of the disclosure provided herein, software modules are created by techniques known to those of skill in the art using machines, software, and languages known to the art. The software modules disclosed herein are implemented in a multitude of ways. In various embodiments, a software module comprises a file, a section of code, a programming object, a programming structure, or combinations thereof. In further various embodiments, a software module comprises a plurality of files, a plurality of sections of code, a plurality of programming objects, a plurality of programming structures, or combinations thereof. In various embodiments, the one or more software modules comprise, by way of non-limiting examples, a web application, a mobile application, and a standalone application. In some embodiments, software modules are in one computer program or application. In other embodiments, software modules are in more than one computer program or application. In some embodiments, software modules are hosted on one machine. In other embodiments, software modules are hosted on more than one machine. In further embodiments, software modules are hosted on cloud computing platforms. In some embodiments, software modules are hosted on one or more machines in one location. In other embodiments, software modules are hosted on one or more machines in more than one location. [00197] In some embodiments, the system disclosed herein includes one or more databases, or use of the same. In view of the disclosure provided herein, those of skill in the art will recognize that many databases are suitable for storage and retrieval of information as described herein. In various embodiments, suitable databases include, by way of non-limiting examples, relational databases, nonrelational databases, object oriented databases, object databases, entity-relationship model databases, associative databases, and XML databases. In some embodiments, a database is internet-based. In further embodiments, a database is web-based. In still further embodiments, a database is cloud computing-based. In other embodiments, a database is based on one or more local computer storage devices.

[00198] In the above description, an embodiment is an example or implementation of the inventions. The various appearances of "one embodiment,” "an embodiment" or "some embodiments" do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiments.

[00199] Although various features of the invention may be described in the context of a single embodiment, the features may also be provided separately or in any suitable combination. Conversely, although the invention may be described herein in the context of separate embodiments for clarity, the invention may also be implemented in a single embodiment.

[00200] Reference in the specification to "some embodiments", "an embodiment", "one embodiment" or "other embodiments" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments is included in at least some embodiments, but not necessarily all embodiments, of the inventions.

[00201] It is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is not to be construed as limiting and are for descriptive purpose only.

[00202] The principles and uses of the teachings of the present invention may be better understood with reference to the accompanying description, figures and examples.

[00203] It is to be understood that the details set forth herein do not construe a limitation to an application of the invention.

[00204] Furthermore, it is to be understood that the invention can be carried out or practiced in various ways and that the invention can be implemented in embodiments other than the ones outlined in the description above.

[00205] It is to be understood that the terms “including”, “comprising”, “consisting” and grammatical variants thereof do not preclude the addition of one or more components, features, steps, or integers or groups thereof and that the terms are to be construed as specifying components, features, steps or integers.

[00206] If the specification or claims refer to "an additional" element, that does not preclude there being more than one of the additional element.

[00207] It is to be understood that where the claims or specification refer to "a" or "an" element, such reference is not be construed that there is only one of that element. It is to be understood that where the specification states that a component, feature, structure, or characteristic "may", "might", "can" or "could" be included, that particular component, feature, structure, or characteristic is not required to be included. Where applicable, although state diagrams, flow diagrams or both may be used to describe embodiments, the invention is not limited to those diagrams or to the corresponding descriptions. For example, flow need not move through each illustrated box or state, or in exactly the same order as illustrated and described. Methods of the present invention may be implemented by performing or completing manually, automatically, or a combination thereof, selected steps or tasks.

[00208] The descriptions, examples, methods and materials presented in the claims and the specification are not to be construed as limiting but rather as illustrative only. Meanings of technical and scientific terms used herein are to be commonly understood as by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention belongs, unless otherwise defined. The present invention may be implemented in the testing or practice with methods and materials equivalent or similar to those described herein.

[00209] While the invention has been described with respect to a limited number of embodiments, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention, but rather as exemplifications of some of the preferred embodiments. Other possible variations, modifications, and applications are also within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should not be limited by what has thus far been described, but by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

[00210] All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention. To the extent that section headings are used, they should not be construed as necessarily limiting.