Google, Fitbit Air It opened the door of accessory development to independent designers, small manufacturers and workshops. The company used it for the pill-shaped “pebble” piece that carries the sensor and the “sleeve” used in the Performance Loop Band. 2D CAD drawings shared. In this way, not only major accessory brands but also manufacturers who want to develop their own strap solutions can reach official dimensions. Google states that the community has already developed different usage ideas, such as armbands, for the Fitbit Air, which was released last month.
This move creates a more flexible accessory area, reminiscent of the open hardware approach of Google’s past. Because the company is making the technical files it normally gives to third-party accessory companies public this time. Fitbit Air CAD drawingsincludes not only the outline but also the critical measurements that determine how the pieces will fit together. In addition, the document also includes information that directly affects quality during production, such as tolerances, insertion force and removal force.
Approximate for Fitbit Air sensor module in Google’s PDF file 3.35cm length And 1.44cm width has information. Additionally, the company uses 10-25Nto remove 12-45N It gives a force target in the range. These values ensure that the accessory stands firmly and that the sensor body does not strain when changing the cord. These measurements are directly important to ensure that the sensor does not move, especially during running, training and intense movement.
There is no screen on the Fitbit Air side, Google positions this product mostly for health monitoring throughout the day. Optical heart rate sensor in official specifications, SpO2 There are red and infrared sensors, 3-axis accelerometer, gyroscope, skin temperature sensor and vibration motor. sensor body 5.2 grams carries weight, in addition to Google Up to 7 days battery life And 1 day of use with 5 minutes of charging gives information. Therefore, accessory design is not only limited to appearance, it also directly affects health measurement accuracy.
Google focuses on sensor theme in Fitbit Air accessory design
Google wants accessory developers to leave optical heart rate and SpO2 sensors fully on. The company recommends that the sensors be in flat and constant contact with the skin, and that constant and light pressure is created in the sensing area during movement. PPG performance The lower limit given by Google for 35mmHg contact pressure occurs. However, while increasing this pressure, designers have to consider user comfort, skin contact and long-term use together.
The tension-based snap-on mechanism also has a special place in Google’s guide. The company wants the accessory mount to fit CAD tolerances so the sensor stays securely in place during intense movement. On the other hand, the user should be able to easily remove the part when he wants to change the band. Therefore, manufacturers who design straps have to focus not only on visual harmony, but also on mechanical grip and the feeling of removal.
On the material side, Google gives detailed safety limits for accessories that come into contact with the skin for extended periods of time. Company; It shares clear warnings for nickel leaching, natural latex proteins, acrylate-based adhesives, coatings, chemical limits, environmental standards and testing requirements. Especially for a health tracker worn throughout the night, the choice of textile, leather, silicone or metal concerns skin health as much as measurement. For this reason Fitbit Air accessory guideguides manufacturers not only in terms of size compliance but also in terms of material safety.
Google offers brands that want to develop custom bands Made for Google It also offers a certification path through its program. The company finds it appropriate to use phrases such as “Google Fitbit Air compatible” or “For use with Google Fitbit Air” on third-party products. However, Google or Fitbit do not want the Air name to become a direct part of the product name. So while small manufacturers can develop custom accessories, Google keeps official compatibility and branding within certain limits.