Adjustable headband

Abstract

The invention relates to an adjustable headgear. A head-mounted device may have a head-mounted housing that includes back-facing displays that display images to a user when the head-mounted housing is worn. The head-mounted housing may be coupled to the head of the user using a headband. The headband may include an upper headband portion and a lower headband portion extending from the first headband portion. The upper headband portion and the lower headband portion may extend at a fixed angle from the head-mounted housing and may be offset from a support post of the head-mounted housing. A stiffener may be included in the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion. The stiffeners may include graded stiffeners and / or braided cords that help conform the upper headgear portion and / or the lower headgear portion to the head of the user. The headgear may also include a temple housing coupled to the upper headgear portion and the lower headgear portion, the temple housing having an opening to attach the headgear to the support post and / or may include a retainer ring.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 647,046 filed on April 26, 2024, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 627,628 filed on January 31, 2024, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 619,855 filed on January 11, 2024, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 585,868 filed on September 27, 2023, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference into this document. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates generally to headbands, and more particularly to adjustable headbands for electronic devices. Background Art

[0003] An electronic device, such as a head-mounted device, may have a display for displaying images. The display may be housed in a head-mounted support structure. Summary of the invention

[0004] The present invention discloses a head mounted device which may have a head mounted housing including rear facing displays which display images to a user when the head mounted housing is worn by the user. The head mounted housing may be coupled to the user's head using a headband.

[0005] The headband may include an upper headband portion and a lower headband portion. The upper headband portion and the lower headband portion may extend from the head-mounted shell at a fixed angle and may be offset from a support post of the head-mounted shell. The upper headband portion may contact the top of the user's head when worn, and the lower headband portion may contact a lower rear portion of the user's head.

[0006] Reinforcements may be included in the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion. The reinforcements may include graduated reinforcements, braided cords, and / or other reinforcements that help the upper headband portion and / or the lower headband portion conform to the user's head.

[0007] The headband may also include one or more temple shells coupled to the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion. Each temple shell has an opening to attach the headband to the support post of the head mounted housing. The temple shell may extend into the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion, or the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion may be attached to the upper and lower edges of the temple shell.

[0008] One or more retainer rings may be incorporated into the headband.The retainer rings may be coupled to multiple portions of the headband and may maintain the positions of the portions of the headband relative to each other.

[0009] The headband may include a woven fabric portion surrounded by a webbing. The webbing may have rounded corners at the edges of the woven fabric portion, and the webbing may appear seamless to the naked eye.

[0010] One or more hook and loop fasteners may be coupled to portions of the headband to allow adjustment of the headband and to maintain the position of the headband after the headband has been adjusted. A drawstring may be coupled to a surface of the headband opposite the hook and loop fasteners to allow the adjustment. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Figure 1 is a side view of an illustrative electronic device (such as a head-mounted display device) with an adjustable headband according to some embodiments.

[0012] Figure 2 is a perspective view of an illustrative headband according to some embodiments.

[0013] Figure 3 is a side view of an illustrative headband having upper and lower headband portions extending at various angles and / or offsets from a support member of a head mounted display device according to some embodiments.

[0014] Figure 4 is a side view of an illustrative headband having upper and lower headband portions attached with an adhesive according to some embodiments.

[0015] Figure 5 is a side view of an illustrative headband having upper and lower headband portions that are integrally formed with each other, according to some embodiments.

[0016] Figure 6 is a side view of an illustrative headband having temple housings extending into upper and lower headband portions according to some embodiments.

[0017] Figure 7 is a side view of an illustrative headband with a compact temple housing according to some embodiments.

[0018] Figure 8 is a side view of an illustrative headband with a temple shell having upper and lower edges attached to an upper headband portion and a lower headband portion, respectively, according to some embodiments.

[0019] Fig.9A is a side view of an illustrative headband portion having graduated reinforcements according to some embodiments.

[0020] Fig. 9B is a side view of an illustrative headband portion having graduated reinforcements according to some embodiments.

[0021] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10B is a view of an illustrative headband portion having a graduated reinforcement having a gradually curved profile according to some embodiments.

[0022] FIG. 11A to FIG. 11C is a front view of an illustrative headband portion having reinforcements with improved stiffness at the ends of the headband portion according to some embodiments.

[0023] Fig.12 is a front view of an illustrative headband portion having multiple reinforcement structures including a braided cord, according to some embodiments.

[0024] Fig.13 is a front view of an illustrative headband portion having multiple reinforcement structures, including wide reinforcements extending along edges of the headband portion, according to some embodiments.

[0025] Fig.14 is a side view of an illustrative headband including a retainer ring to maintain the position of various parts of the headband according to some embodiments.

[0026] Fig.15 is a perspective view of an illustrative headband including a retainer ring to maintain the position of various parts of the headband according to some embodiments.

[0027] Fig.16 is a side view of an illustrative headband including a retainer ring and an integrated adjuster ring according to some embodiments.

[0028] Fig.17 is an illustrative front view of an edge of a headband portion according to some embodiments.

[0029] Fig.18 is a top view of an illustrative headband portion having a seam that is not visible to the naked eye, according to some embodiments.

[0030] FIG. 19A to FIG. 19E is a diagram of an illustrative hook and loop fastener that may be coupled to a headband portion according to some embodiments.

[0031] Fig. 20 is a side view of an illustrative headband portion with a draw strap according to some embodiments.

[0032] Fig.21 is a perspective view of an illustrative headgear system having one or more adjuster loops, retainer loops, and draw straps according to some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] Head-mounted devices include head-mounted support structures that allow these devices to be worn on a user's head. The head-mounted support structures may include a device housing for housing components such as a display for presenting visual content to the user. Head-mounted support structures for head-mounted devices may also include headbands and other structures that help hold the device housing on the user's face. The headbands of head-mounted devices may be adjustable.

[0034] In some embodiments, it may be desirable to incorporate a bifurcated headband that can contact the user's head at multiple locations while the head mounted device is worn. The headband can include an upper headband portion that extends over the top of the user's head to support the weight of the head mounted device, and a lower headband portion that is positioned at the lower rear of the head for stability. The upper headband portion and the lower headband portion can be positioned relative to each other to provide fit and comfort to the user.

[0035] The headband may be coupled to a structural support portion of the head mounted device. In the areas where the headband is coupled to the structural support portion, the headband may include graduated reinforcements. By increasing the rigidity in these areas, the headband may be moment bearing, conform to the user's head, and be more comfortable for the user. To prevent the headband from sliding relative to the user's head, other reinforcements and / or cords may be included on and / or in the headband. If a cord is included in the headband, the headband may have an adaptive curvature based on the position of the cord within the headband. As a result, the headband may conform to the user's head.

[0036] The headband may alternatively or additionally include a temple shell in the area where the headband is coupled to the structural support portion. The temple shell may extend between the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion, or may have upper and lower edges that are coupled to the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion, respectively. The temple shell may provide increased rigidity in the area where it is coupled to the structural support portion, and may therefore provide additional structural support for the headband.

[0037] A retainer ring may be incorporated between different portions of the headband to allow adjustment of the headband, and to allow the positions of the portions of the headband to be maintained relative to each other.

[0038] Figure 1 is a side view of an exemplary head mounted electronic device with an adjustable headband. Figure 1 As shown, the head mounted device 10 may include a head mounted housing 12 (sometimes referred to as a main housing, a main housing unit, a head mounted support structure, etc.). The housing 12 may have a wall or other structure that separates an interior housing area from an exterior area surrounding the housing 12. For example, the housing 12 may have walls formed of polymers, glass, metal, and / or other materials. Electrical components and optical components may be mounted in the housing 12. These components may include components such as integrated circuits, sensors, control circuits, input-output devices, etc.

[0039] To present to the user a display for viewing from the eye-viewing zone (e.g., when the device 10 is worn on the user's head (such as Figure 1 In order to display an image for viewing by the user's eye (an eye zone in which the user's eye is located) when the user's head 22 is mounted on the device 10, the device 10 may include a display and a lens. These components may be mounted in an optical module or other supporting structure in the housing 12 to form corresponding left and right optical systems. For example, there may be a left display for presenting an image to the user's left eye through a left lens in the left eye zone and a right display for presenting an image to the user's right eye in the right eye zone.

[0040] If desired, the housing 12 may have forward-facing components (such as a camera, other sensors, and / or display) on the front F for collecting sensor measurements / other inputs and / or displaying information on the front F. The housing 12 may have soft padding on the opposite rear side of the housing 12. The rear of the housing 12 may have openings that allow the user to view images from the left and right optical systems (e.g., when the rear of the housing 12 rests on the front surface 20F of the user's head 22).

[0041] The device 10 may have an adjustable strap, such as an adjustable headband 26, and other structures to help hold the housing 12 on the head 22 if desired. The headband 26 may have a first end and a second end that are coupled to the left and right sides of the housing 12, respectively. Figure 1 In the example of , coupling members 24 (also referred to herein as support structures 24 and support members 24) that serve as extensions of the housing 12 (e.g., extending directly from or directly attached to the housing 12) are disposed on the left and right sides of the housing 12. The members 24 may be formed of a rigid material, such as a rigid polymer and / or other material, and may include sensors, buttons, speakers, and other electrical components. Hinges and / or other mechanisms may be used to couple the members 24 to the housing 12, or the members 24 may be formed as an integral part of the main housing unit. The ends of the headband 26 may have coupling mechanisms, such as openings, that are configured to receive posts or other protrusions 24P on the members 24 or other housing structures. These coupling mechanisms allow a user to removably attach the headband 26 to the members 24, and thereby removably attach the headband 26 to the housing 12. The members 24 may have Figure 1 Elongated shapes of the type shown and / or other suitable shapes and may sometimes be referred to as rigid straps, rigid coupling members, or power straps.

[0042] The headband 26 may include two headband portions 32 and 34. In particular, the headband portions 32 and 34 may form two portions of the same headband 26 (e.g., the headband portions 32 and 34 may be attached, integrally formed, or otherwise coupled to form the headband 26). The headband portion 32 may be an upper headband portion (also referred to herein as the upper headband 32 and the upper headband portion 32) that extends over the head 22, thereby supporting the device 10 on the user's face. The headband portion 34 may be a lower headband portion (also referred to herein as the lower headband 34 and the lower headband portion 34) that extends across the lower rear portion of the head 22 and may be moment-bearing. In this manner, the headband portions 32 and 34 may support the device 10 on the head 22.

[0043] Upper headband portion 32 may be formed at angle 44 with coupling member 24. Angle 44 may be 90°, between 70° and 100°, at least 80°, or other suitable angle. Lower headband portion 34 may be formed at angle 46 with coupling member 24. Angle 46 may be 40°, at least 35°, between 35° and 45°, or other suitable angle. By spacing headband portions 32 and 34 from coupling member 24 at angles 44 and 46, respectively, headband portions 32 and 34 may be maintained in a position to support device 10 on the face of a user.

[0044] The upper headband portion 32 and the lower headband portion 34 may have a soft, flexible portion, such as a center portion 30. Portion 30 may be formed between two more rigid portions, such as end portions 28 on the left and right ends of the upper headband portion 32 and the lower headband portion 34. Portion 28 may be reinforced using embedded polymer reinforcements (e.g., single or multi-layer polymer reinforcement strips), reinforcements on one or more surfaces of the headband 26, reinforcements between fabric layers of the headband 26, and / or other reinforcement members.

[0045] Portion 30 may be formed of a stretchable material, such as a stretch fabric or a thin webbing material. Portion 30 may, for example, be formed of a flat knit fabric strip that includes strands of stretchable material (e.g., elastomeric strands) and / or uses a stretchable fabric construction (e.g., a stretchable knit construction). Alternatively, portion 30 may be formed of a woven fabric strip that may include strands of stretchable material and / or may use a stretchable fabric construction. If desired, the narrowed end portions of the knitted fabric strip may extend over the reinforcing member in end portion 28 (e.g., to ensure that headband 26 has a uniform appearance).

[0046] Portion 30 in the upper headband portion 32 may include a non-stretch insert, such as a plastic sheet. For example, the non-stretch insert may be thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) or other suitable non-stretch material. The non-stretch material may be embedded in a fabric that otherwise forms portion 30. The presence of the non-stretch material may support the head-mounted device on the user's head. However, the use of a non-stretch insert in portion 30 of the upper headband portion 32 is merely exemplary. The non-stretch insert may be incorporated into the upper headband portion 32 and / or the lower headband portion 34.

[0047] The stretchability of portion 30 (and thus headband portions 32 and 34 of headband 26) allows headband 26 to be stretched along its length. This allows the length of headband 26 to be temporarily increased to help the user place headband 26 over the user's head when the user puts on device 10. When headband 26 is released, the stretchability and elastic properties of portion 30 of headband 26 will help shorten headband 26 and pull headband 26 against the user's head so that headband 26 rests on the user's head.

[0048] The tension of the headband 26 can be further adjusted by tightening the folded back portions 33 and 35 of the headband 26 to secure the headband 26 and the device 10 on the user's head. In particular, the folded back portions 33 and 35 can be passed through adjustment loops 36 and 38, respectively. The adjustment loops 36 and 38 can be formed of metal, polymer, or other suitable materials.

[0049] The fold-back portions 33 and 35 may have hook and loop fasteners on the inner surface, allowing the fold-back portions 33 and 35 to be secured to the upper headband portion 32 and the lower headband portion 34. The hook and loop fasteners may be, for example, hair-safe hook and loop fasteners that prevent hair from getting caught in these fasteners. In this way, the headband portions 32 and 34 may be tightened or loosened as desired by the user of the device 10.

[0050] Soft retainer loops 40 and 42 can maintain the position of folded back portions 33 and 35, respectively. In particular, if desired, soft retainer loops 40 and 42 can be formed of fabric (the same fabric as portion 30 or a different fabric than portion 30) and / or reinforcement material. Soft retainer loops 40 and 42 can maintain folded back portions 33 and 35 (and therefore headband portions 32 and 34) flat against head 22. Additionally or alternatively, soft retainer loops 40 and 42 can provide additional friction against the user's head / hair and thus help maintain the position of headband portions 32 and 34 on the head.

[0051] Figure 2 A perspective view of an exemplary headband is shown in FIG. Figure 2As shown, the headband 26 may include an upper headband portion 32 and a lower headband portion 34. The headband portions 32 and 34 may meet at position 58. At position 58, the headband portions 32 and 34 may be adhesively attached (e.g., one of the headband portions 32 or 34 may be on top of the other headband portion, with an intermediate adhesive layer attaching the upper headband portion 32 to the lower headband portion 34). Alternatively, the headband portions 32 and 34 may be formed as a whole by the same fabric layer. In other words, the headband portions 32 and 34 may be formed by a continuous fabric strip extending from the lower headband portion 34 to the upper headband portion 32 on the left and right sides of the headband 26. However, these examples are merely illustrative. In general, the headband portions 32 and 34 may be coupled together in any suitable manner.

[0052] The upper headband portion 32 may have a portion 60 that extends vertically along the side of the user's head when worn. Portion 60 may be a soft fabric portion. In other words, portion 60 may be formed of a stretchable fabric that allows the upper headband portion 32 to stretch and conform to the user's head. For example, portion 60 may correspond to Figure 1 Alternatively, portion 60 may include internal reinforcements (e.g., reinforcements embedded between fabric layers or fabric surfaces of upper headband portion 32), such as plastic reinforcements. If portion 60 is reinforced, portion 60 may have improved in-plane rigidity, and headband 26 may maintain its shape on and off the user's head.

[0053] The upper headband portion 32 may also have a portion 48 that extends over the top of the user's head when worn. Portion 48 may have a non-stretch insert, such as a plastic sheet (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane). The non-stretch insert may be embedded within the fabric of the upper headband portion 32, attached to the surface of the upper headband portion 32, or otherwise included within the headband portion 32.

[0054] The non-stretch insert can ensure that the upper headband portion 32 maintains its shape both on and off the user's head. For example, when the non-stretch insert is removed from the user's head (or when it is worn on the user's head), it can maintain the shape of the upper headband portion 32, thereby making it easier for the user to put on the headband 26. However, the use of a non-stretch insert is merely exemplary. If desired, other reinforcement structures or no reinforcement structure can be incorporated into the portion 48 of the upper headband portion 32.

[0055] The lower headband portion 34 may include a Figure 2The reinforcement member 50 may be embedded in the fabric of the lower headband portion 34, attached to the surface of the headband portion 34, or otherwise included in the headband portion 34. In some exemplary embodiments, the reinforcement member 50 may be inserted into a cavity in the lower headband portion 34 to extend along the edge of the lower headband portion 34.

[0056] As an example, the reinforcement 50 may be formed of a flexible strip of a cord (such as a braided cord), a fabric sheet, a non-stretch cord, or a polymer (e.g., an elastomer, such as thermoplastic polyurethane). The reinforcement 50 may have sufficient flexibility to allow the headband to bend and twist, but may not be substantially stretched along its length, and may therefore sometimes be referred to as a non-stretchable reinforcement, a non-stretchable member, a non-stretchable reinforcement structure, etc. The reinforcement 50 may have significantly less stretch and softness than the fabric of the lower headband portion 34, and may be used to increase stiffness and reduce (or eliminate) stretchability at a desired portion along the lower headband portion 34. At the same time, the flexibility of the reinforcement 50 may allow the lower headband portion 34 to bend around the curvature of the user's head. If desired, the reinforcement 50 may be inserted into a selected portion of the lower headband portion 34 to selectively reinforce the lower headband portion 34 at a desired portion along its length. In this way, the reinforcement 50 may allow the lower headband portion 34 to conform to the lower back of the user's head.

[0057] Although the upper headband portion 32 is shown as including a non-stretch insert in the folded portion 33 and the lower headband portion 34 includes a reinforcement 50, this is merely exemplary. The upper headband portion 32 and / or the lower headband portion 34 may include one or more non-stretch inserts and / or one or more reinforcements.

[0058] The headband 26 may include a temple shell 52 that bridges the upper headband portion 32 and the lower headband portion 34. The temple shell 52 may be formed of a rigid polymer, such as plastic, metal, plastic embedded in fabric, plastic covered by silicon, or any other suitable material. Generally speaking, the temple shell 52 may be harder than the upper headband portion 32 and the lower headband portion 34.

[0059] The temple housing 52 may have an opening 54. The opening 54 may receive a post (such as Figure 1 24P) to attach the headband 26 to the head mounted device. As an example, the opening 54 may have an elongated shape that matches the shape of the post 24P. The temple housing 52 may also have a tab 56. The tab 56 may be attached to a latch (or other suitable attachment mechanism) in the opening 54 that attaches the headband 26 to the post 24P. By pulling the tab 56, the user may release the latch from the post 24P, and the headband 26 may be removed from the member 24 ( Figure 1) is removed. However, this attachment mechanism of the headband 26 to the member 24 is merely exemplary. In general, the headband 26 can be attached to the member 24 in any suitable manner.

[0060] The opening 54 can be offset from the rear edge of the upper headband portion 32 by a distance 62. The distance 62 can be at least 20 mm, 25 mm, 10 mm or more, 0 mm, between 10 mm and 25 mm, or other suitable amount. In general, the distance 62 can be selected to ensure that the headband 26 supports the head mounted device on the user's head.

[0061] The temple housing 52 may be formed on an outer surface of the headband 26 (e.g., a surface facing away from the user's head when the headband 26 is worn), may be formed on an inner surface of the headband 26 (e.g., a surface facing the user's head when the headband 26 is worn), and / or may be at least partially embedded in the fabric forming the headband 26. By including the temple housing 52 in the areas of the headband 26 that are attached to the post 24P, the headband 26 may have additional rigidity / rigidity in these areas. As a result, the angle of the upper headband portion 32 and the lower headband portion 34 may be maintained around the temple housing 52, making the headband 26 easier for the user to put on. Additionally, the more rigid connection between the headband 26 and the post 24P may allow the headband 26 to more effectively support the head mounted device on the user's face.

[0062] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the upper headband portion 32 and the lower headband portion 34 may be offset from each other by a given angle, and the opening 54 may be offset from the upper headband portion 32 (or the lower headband portion 34) by a given distance. Figure 3 Illustrative examples of different angles and offsets between portions of a headband are shown in FIG.

[0063] like Figure 3 As shown, the upper headband portion 32 can be formed at a 90° angle 53 relative to the support member 24 and offset 0 mm from the post 24P. Alternatively, the upper headband portion 32 can be angled 55 relative to the support member 24 at position 32'. Angle 55 can be greater than 90° (e.g., the upper headband portion 32 can be placed closer to the front top of the user's head), can be 135°, can be between 100° and 140°, or can be another suitable angle.

[0064] Alternatively or additionally, the upper headband portion 32 may be offset from the post 24P (and therefore from the lower headband portion 34) by a distance 57. The distance 57 may be at least 10 mm, at least 20 mm, between 10 mm and 20 mm, or other suitable distance.

[0065] Similarly, the lower headband portion 34 can be at an angle 59 relative to the support member 24 and can be offset from the support post 24P by a distance 61. Angle 59 can be, for example, 45°, 50°, between 35° and 55°, 40°, or other suitable angles. For example, the lower headband portion 34 can be at a greater angle relative to the support member 24 at position 34'.

[0066] Distance 61 may be at least 15 mm, at least 20 mm, between 18 mm and 35 mm, 25 mm, 33 mm, 18.5 mm, or other suitable distance.

[0067] By adjusting the angle and offset of the upper headband portion 32 and the lower headband portion 34 , the headband 26 can support the head mounted device on the user's head.

[0068] Regardless of the angle and offset of the upper headband portion 32 and the lower headband portion 34 , the two portions are attached, integrally formed, or otherwise coupled to form the headband 26 . Figure 4 An illustrative example of a headband having two parts attached to each other is shown in FIG.

[0069] like Figure 4 As shown, the lower headband portion 34 can overlap the upper headband portion 32. The opening 54 can extend through both the upper headband portion 32 and the lower headband portion 34. Additionally, the lower headband portion 34 and the upper headband portion 32 can be adhesively attached to each other. For example, a layer of adhesive can be bonded between the upper headband portion 32 and the lower headband portion 34 to couple the two portions together.

[0070] Although in Figure 4 Not shown, but the temple housing (such as Figure 2 The temple shell 52) can be combined with Figure 4 For example, the temple shell can be formed on the surface of the lower headband portion 34, on the surface of the upper headband portion 32, and / or between the lower headband portion 34 and the upper headband portion 32. In this way, the headband 26 can be reinforced near the opening 54.

[0071] In addition, despite Figure 4 Shown is a lower headband portion 34 formed on top of an upper headband portion 32, but this is merely exemplary. If desired, the upper headband portion 32 can be formed on top of the lower headband portion 34, and the two strap portions can be adhesively attached.

[0072] As an alternative to adhesively attaching the upper and lower headband portions, the two headband portions may be integrally formed with each other. Figure 5 As shown, the headband 26 may include a continuous fabric portion that forms the upper headband portion 32 and the lower headband portion 34. The opening 54 may be formed in the continuous fabric portion.

[0073] Although in Figure 5 Not shown, but the temple housing (such as Figure 2 The temple shell 52) can be combined with Figure 5 In the headband 26. For example, Figure 6 As shown in the illustrative example of , the temple shell 52 can be formed on a continuous fabric portion that forms both the upper headband portion 32 and the lower headband portion 34. Alternatively, the temple shell 52 can be embedded in the continuous fabric portion that forms the upper headband portion 32 and the lower headband portion 34. Regardless of where the temple shell 52 is formed relative to the surface of the upper headband portion 32 and the lower headband portion 34, the temple shell 52 can extend vertically into the upper headband portion 32 and the lower headband portion 34. In this way, the headband 26 can be reinforced near the opening 54.

[0074] Although the temple housing 52 has been shown and described as an elongated structure that extends vertically between the upper headband portion 32 and the lower headband portion 34 and spans only a portion of the width of the headband 26, this is merely exemplary. Figure 7 An illustrative example of a compact temple housing that does not extend vertically into the upper and lower headband portions is shown in FIG.

[0075] like Figure 7 As shown, the temple housing 52 can extend horizontally within the headband 26 without extending vertically into the upper headband portion 32 and the lower headband portion 34. In this way, Figure 7 The temple shell 52 can be a compact temple shell. As another illustrative alternative, as Figure 8 As shown, the temple housing 52 can extend completely across the headband 26. In some embodiments, the upper strap portion 32 and the lower strap portion 34 can be coupled to the Figure 8 The upper and lower edges of the temple shell 52 (for example, the temple shell 52 can fill the gap between the upper band portion 32 and the lower band portion 34).

[0076] Generally speaking, regardless of the shape of the temple shells 52, one or more temple shells 52 may be formed on an outer surface of the headband 26 (e.g., the side opposite the user's head when the headband 26 is worn), on an inner surface of the headband 26 (e.g., the side that contacts or is adjacent to the user's head when the headband 26 is worn), and / or between fabric layers of the headband 26. For example, the temple shells 52 may have fabric on either side of the temple shells 52, and the same fabric (or fabric coupled to the fabric) may form the upper band portion 32 and the lower band portion 34.

[0077] Additionally or alternatively, the rigidity provided by the temple shell 52 to the headband 26 may be increased by one or more additional reinforcements in the area surrounding the opening 54. For example, internal reinforcements (reinforcements embedded in the headband fabric) and / or external reinforcements (reinforcements on one or more surfaces of the headband fabric) may be used to further increase the rigidity of the headband 26 in these areas. The internal reinforcements and / or external reinforcements may be formed from polymers, metals, or other suitable reinforcement materials.

[0078] As discussed, one or more portions of the upper headband portion 32 and / or the lower headband portion 34 may be reinforced. For example, Figure 2 Portions 48, 60, and / or portions of the upper headband portion 32 in which reinforcement 50 is formed may be reinforced, such as using internal reinforcements (e.g., reinforcements embedded between fabric portions of the headband). In some embodiments, it may be desirable to gradually change the thickness of the headband in these portions. Fig.9A An illustrative example of a headband portion having a gradually changing stiffness is shown in FIG.

[0079] like Fig.9AAs shown, the headband portion 64 (which may be the upper headband portion 32 or the lower headband portion 34) may have reinforced areas 66, 68, 70, and 72. The reinforced area 66 may include an opening 54 for a support post (such as post 24P), and thus may be the most rigid / stiff portion of the headband portion 64. Thus, the reinforced area 66 may include at least 0.5 mm, at least 0.6 mm, between 0.5 mm and 1.0 mm, or other suitable thickness of reinforcing material, such as a polymer (such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET)), metal, or other suitable material. The reinforced area 68 may have slightly less rigidity than the reinforced area 66, and thus may include less than 0.6 mm, 0.4 mm, between 0.3 mm and 0.6 mm, or other suitable thickness of reinforcing material (the same reinforcing material as in the reinforced area 66 or a different reinforcing material). As an example, the reinforced area 68 may have a length of 25 mm, at least 20 mm, between 10 mm and 25 mm, or other suitable length. Reinforced region 70 may have a slightly lesser stiffness than reinforced region 68, and thus may include a reinforcing material (the same reinforcing material as in reinforced regions 66 and / or 68 or a different reinforcing material) of less than 0.4 mm, 0.2 mm, between 0.1 mm and 0.3 mm, or other suitable thickness. Finally, reinforced region 72 may have a slightly lesser stiffness than reinforced region 70, and thus may include a reinforcing material (the same reinforcing material as in reinforced regions 66, 68, and / or 70 or a different reinforcing material) of 0.1 mm, between 0.05 mm and 0.15 mm, or other suitable thickness. In this manner, the stiffness of headband portion 64 may gradually decrease between reinforced region 66 and reinforced region 72. In other words, the reinforcing materials in reinforced regions 66, 68, 70, and 72 may form a graded stiffener having graded stiffness in headband portion 64.

[0080] The thickness of the reinforcing material in reinforced regions 66 , 68 , 70 , and / or 72 may be achieved using multiple layers of reinforcing material in each region or using a single layer of reinforcing material in each region.

[0081] One or more of the reinforced regions 66, 68, 70, and 72 may also have a tapered portion to gradually change stiffness along the width of the headband portion 64. As an illustrative example, Fig.9A In this manner, the headband portion 64 may be provided with a tapered edge 73 that is bonded between the reinforcement region 70 and the reinforcement region 72. Fig.9A The left edge is higher than Fig.9A However, this arrangement is merely illustrative. Generally speaking, any one or more of the reinforced regions may have tapered edges.

[0082] exist Fig. 9B 6, 68, 70, and 72 gradually decrease in thickness (and therefore stiffness). By gradually decreasing the stiffness of headband portion 64, headband portion 64 can be designed to better conform to the user's head (e.g., if headband portion 64 is upper headband portion 32, then conform to the top of the user's head, or if headband portion 64 is lower headband portion 34, then conform to the lower back of the user's head).

[0083] Although in Fig.9A and Fig. 9B , but the headband portion 64 may also include other reinforcement structures (such as Figure 2 reinforcement 50) and / or temple shell (such as Figure 2 In general, the headband portion 64 may include any suitable reinforcement structure.

[0084] Furthermore, in addition to the reinforced region 72 (or any suitable reinforced region), the headband portion 64 may be composed of unreinforced fabric (or fabric with non-stretch inserts, such as Figure 2 Generally speaking, any suitable number of reinforcement regions may be incorporated between the reinforcement region 66 and the unreinforced fabric.

[0085] although Fig.9A and Fig. 9B The gradual thickness reduction is shown with multiple portions of gradually changing thickness arranged in a staggered (eg, stepped) manner, but this is merely exemplary. In some embodiments, reinforcements that gradually change thickness in an inclined manner may be used in the headband straps. Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B An illustrative example is shown in .

[0086] like Fig. 10A As shown, the headband portion 64 (which may be the upper headband portion 32) may have a reinforcement 108, and the headband portion 65 (which may be the upper headband portion 34) may have a reinforcement 110. The reinforcements 108 and 110 may be tapered, such as Fig. 10A However, in general, the reinforcements 108 and 110 may be tapered in any suitable manner.

[0087] Fig. 10B An illustrative side view of the headband portion 64 is shown with a reinforcement 108. As shown, the reinforcement 108 can be formed between fabric layers 118 and 120. The reinforcement 108 can be adhesively attached to the fabric layers 118 and 120, can be sewn or otherwise incorporated into the headband portion 64, or can be attached to the headband portion 64 in other ways.

[0088] The reinforcement 108 may include reinforcement layers 112 and 114, which may be formed of PET, metal, polymer or other suitable materials. The reinforcement layers 112 and 114 may have a thickness of at least 0.05 mm, between 0.5 mm and 0.2 mm, less than 0.3 mm or other suitable thickness. As shown, the reinforcement layer 114 may extend further than the reinforcement layer 112. In this way, the stiffness of the headband portion 64 in the area where the reinforcement layers 112 and 114 overlap may be greater, and the stiffness in the area where there is a reinforcement layer 114 and there is no reinforcement layer 112 may be less.

[0089] The reinforcement encapsulation layer 116 may overlap the reinforcement layers 112 and 114. The reinforcement encapsulation layer 116 may be formed of TPU, elastomer, plastic, or other suitable material. Fig. 10B As shown, the reinforcement encapsulation layer 116 may have a tapered profile 119. For example, the reinforcement encapsulation layer 116 may gradually taper so that the reinforcement 108 has an end portion ( Fig. 10B 15 mm, 0.1 mm, less than 0.2 mm, a thickness between 0.5 mm and 0.15 mm, or other suitable thickness at the left side of the reinforcement layer 112 and 114 to the left side of the reinforcement layer 112 and 114. Fig. 10B 9 ), between 0.3 mm and 0.5 mm, at least 0.5 mm in thickness or other suitable thickness. In this way, the reinforcement 108 can have a gradually tapered profile, rather than the step / staircase profile in the example of FIG. 9 .

[0090] Alternatively or additionally, the reinforcements may be modified at the edges of the headband to provide a smooth transition between reinforced and non-reinforced areas. FIG. 11A to FIG. 11C An illustrative example of a modified reinforcement is shown in FIG.

[0091] like Fig.11A As shown, the reinforcement 108 in the headband portion 64 may have an array of slots 124 , holes 125 , and / or shapes 128 . Fig.11A The shapes shown are merely illustrative. In general, by including slits, holes, and / or other shapes of openings, the stiffener 108 can have less stiffness in the area having the openings. Thus, an array of openings can be formed in the stiffener 108 to gradually reduce the stiffness of the stiffener 108 as the stiffener 108 is closer to the end of the headband portion 64. For example, the array of openings near the end of the headband portion 64 can be denser than the array of openings toward the center portion of the headband portion 64. However, in general, the stiffness of the stiffener 108 can be modified in any desired manner.

[0092] In other embodiments, Fig. 11B As shown in the illustrative example of FIG, the reinforcement 108 may have a slit opening 135. In particular, the slit opening 135 may be cut between the portions 133 of the reinforcement 108. By including the slit opening 135 at the ends of the reinforcement 108, the stiffness of the reinforcement 108 may be reduced at the ends of the headband portion 64.

[0093] As another illustrative example, Fig. 11C As shown, the reinforcement 108 may be cut at the end of the headband portion 64, for example, with a V-shape or other suitable shape. The region 122 of the headband portion 64 may be free of reinforcement structure, and an additional reinforcement 126 may be formed at the end of the headband portion 64. In some embodiments, the stiffness of the additional reinforcement 126 may be less than the stiffness of the reinforcement 108 to reduce the stiffness at the end of the headband portion 64. Alternatively or additionally, the presence of the region 122 without any reinforcement structure may reduce the stiffness at the end of the headband portion 64.

[0094] As an alternative or in addition to including a tapered area of ​​reinforcement, a headband portion, such as upper headband portion 32 or lower headband portion 34, may include additional structure to help bend the headband portion to fit the user's head. Fig.12 An illustrative example of a headband portion having additional structure is shown in FIG.

[0095] like Fig.12 As shown, the headband portion 74 (which may be the upper headband portion 32 or the lower headband portion 34) may include a fabric 80. The reinforcement 76 may be embedded in the fabric 80 (e.g., formed between two outer surfaces and / or layers of the fabric 80). The reinforcement 76 may be formed of a polymer (such as PET), a metal, or other suitable material. For example, the reinforcement 76 may be a graded reinforcement such as Fig.9A and Fig. 9B or Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B Regardless of whether the reinforcement 76 has a gradually decreasing stiffness, the reinforcement 76 may be included at the end of the headband portion 74 (eg, where a post (such as post 24P) is attached to the headband portion 74).

[0096] The headband portion 74 may include gaps 78 between the reinforcement members 76. In particular, by including gaps 78 between the reinforcement members 76, the fabric 80 may conform to the curvature of the user's head, such as at the top or back of the user's head. However, the incorporation of gaps 78 is merely exemplary. If desired, the entire headband portion 74 may include reinforcement material.

[0097] The reinforcement 50 may be incorporated on at least one edge of the headband portion 74. The reinforcement 50 may be formed of a flexible strip of a cord (such as a braided cord), a fabric sheet, a non-stretch cord, or a polymer (e.g., an elastomer, such as a thermoplastic polyurethane). The reinforcement 50 may have sufficient flexibility to allow the headband to bend and twist, but may not be substantially stretched along its length, and may therefore sometimes be referred to as a non-stretchable reinforcement, a non-stretchable member, a non-stretchable reinforcement structure, etc. The reinforcement 50 may have significantly less stretchability and softness than the fabric of the headband portion 74, and may be used to increase stiffness and reduce (or eliminate) stretchability at a desired portion along the headband portion 74. At the same time, the flexibility of the reinforcement 50 may allow the headband portion 74 to bend around the curvature of the user's head. If desired, the reinforcement 50 may be inserted into a selected portion of the headband portion 74 to selectively reinforce the headband portion 74 at a desired portion along its length. In this manner, the reinforcement 50 may allow the headband portion 74 to conform to the curvature of the user's head, such as at a lower rear portion or a top portion of the head.

[0098] Although reinforcement 50 is shown on only one edge of headband portion 74, reinforcement 50 may be incorporated along one or both edges of headband portion 74. By including reinforcement 50 on one or both edges of headband portion 74, headband portion 74 may conform to the curvature of the user's head.

[0099] In addition to or in lieu of incorporating reinforcement 50 to allow headband portion 74 to conform to the user's head, the headband portion may include a polymer or other material that spans a greater width of the headband portion. Fig.13 An illustrative example is shown in .

[0100] like Fig.13 As shown, the headband portion 82 (which can be the upper headband portion 32 or the lower headband portion 34) can include a fabric 90. The reinforcement 88 can be embedded in the fabric 90 (e.g., formed between two outer surfaces and / or layers of the fabric 90). The reinforcement 88 can be a polymer (such as PET, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)), metal, or other material. As an example, the reinforcement 88 can extend along most of the length of the headband portion 82 while extending at least 50% across the width of the headband portion 82. However, in general, the reinforcement 88 can extend along any suitable length and width of the headband portion 82. The reinforcement 88 can ensure that the headband portion 82 is on one side (e.g., Fig.13 The top side of the headset is more rigid and can therefore conform to the curvature of the user's head.

[0101] The reinforcement members 84 and 86 may form a stepped reinforcement member (eg Fig.9A and Fig. 9B and / or Fig. 10A and Fig. 10BHowever, regardless of whether stiffeners 84 and 86 have a tapered stiffness, stiffeners 84 and 86 may be included at the ends of headband portion 82 (eg, where a post, such as post 24P, is attached to headband portion 82).

[0102] Despite Fig.13 88. Although not shown in the drawings, a less rigid material, such as polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG) or liquid crystal polymer (LCP), may be incorporated into areas of the fabric 90 and around areas where the stiffeners 88 are formed. Thus, whether the fabric 90 alone surrounds the stiffeners 88, or another material that is less rigid than the stiffeners 88 is incorporated into the headband portion 82, the stiffeners 88 may provide increased stiffness to the headband portion 82 at the edges of the strap portion and allow the strap portion to conform to the user's head.

[0103] In some embodiments, a retainer ring may be incorporated between portions of the headband to allow the headband to be adjusted while maintaining the position of the portions of the headband relative to each other. Fig.14 An illustrative example of a headband with a retainer ring is shown in FIG.

[0104] like Fig.14 As shown, the headband 92 (which may correspond to Figure 2 The headband 26 may have headband portions 94 and 98 (which may correspond to Figure 2 33 and the folded portion of the lower headband portion 34, or any other suitable portion of the headband 26). In some embodiments, the headband portion 94 may correspond to an additional headband that terminates in a connector, such as an attachment to the post 24P ( Figure 1 ) connector. However, in general, headband portions 94 and 98 may correspond to any desired portions of a headband.

[0105] The regulator ring 96 (which may correspond to Figure 2 The headband portion 94 may be coupled to the adjuster ring 96 or the adjuster ring 36 or 38. For example, the headband portion 94 may be adhesively coupled to the adjuster ring 96, may be tied around the adjuster ring 96, may be received within a cavity of the adjuster ring 96, or may be otherwise attached to the adjuster ring 96.

[0106] The headband portion 98 may have a first portion 98A and a second portion 98B separated by a portion of the adjuster loop 96. In other words, the second portion 98B may be folded back on the first portion 98A after passing through the adjuster loop 96. By adjusting the amount of the headband portion 98 passing through the adjuster loop 96, the size of the headband 92 may be adjusted.

[0107] A retainer ring 100 may be included in the headband 92 to maintain the position of the headband portions 94, 98A, and 98B. The retainer ring 100 may be formed of a reinforced fabric. For example, the retainer ring 100 may be reinforced with one or more polyethylene terephthalate (PET) layers or other polymer layers, one or more fiberglass layers, one or more adhesive layers, and / or one or more fabric layers. These layers may then be covered with a fabric such as a webbing.

[0108] Retainer ring 100 may have portion 102 that is attached to headband portion 94, such as using an adhesive. Alternatively, portion 102 may be woven or otherwise attached to headband portion 94. By attaching portion 102 of retainer ring 100 to headband portion 94, retainer ring 100 may maintain its position relative to headband portion 94, thereby preventing retainer ring 100 from sliding downward from headband portion 98.

[0109] although Fig.14 The retainer ring 100 is shown attached directly to the headband portion 94, but the retainer ring 100 may be attached to the adjuster ring 96 (eg, tucked into an opening thereof) if desired.

[0110] The first portion 98A and the second portion 98B of the headband portion 98 can pass through the retainer ring 100. The retainer ring 100 can keep the headband portion 98 flat and minimize the bend radius between the portion 98A and the portion 98B, thereby allowing the headband 92 to have a low profile. In particular, the position of the retainer ring 100 relative to the adjuster ring 96 can minimize the bend radius.

[0111] like Fig.14 As shown, the adjuster ring 96 can be oriented at an angle relative to the plane of the headband portion 94, such as at an angle of at least 20°, at least 30°, or at least 40°. By orienting the adjuster ring 96 in this manner, the portion 98A of the headband portion 98 can be aligned with the headband portion 94 (e.g., the plane of the portion 98A can be coplanar with the plane of the headband portion 94). Aligning the portion 98A with the headband portion 94 can allow the headband 92 to be more comfortable when worn, allow the headband 92 to be more easily adjusted, and / or prevent the adjuster ring 96 from contacting the user's head.

[0112] When headband 92 is not worn, retainer ring 100 can maintain the curvature of headband 92. In particular, because retainer ring 100 is attached to headband portion 94 and headband portion 98, the shape of headband 92 can be maintained when it is not on the user's head. Similarly, because retainer ring 100 contacts both sides of the headband, retainer ring 100 can prevent the headband from disconnecting if it is not properly tightened.

[0113] When wearing headband 92, retainer ring 100 can separate adjuster ring 96 from the user's head. Additionally or alternatively, friction between retainer ring 100 and headband portion 98 can prevent headband portion 98 from moving relative to adjuster ring 96.

[0114] although Fig.14 Portion 98A and portion 98B are shown passing through a common opening of retainer ring 100, but this is merely illustrative. If desired, retainer ring 100 may have two openings, with portion 98A and portion 98B each passing through one of the openings. For example, a fabric reinforced with PET, fiberglass, and / or other materials may be used to separate the two openings.

[0115] Fig.15 An illustrative perspective view of a headband 92 having a retainer ring 100 is shown in FIG. Fig.15 As shown, the use of retainer ring 100 can maintain a small bend radius between portion 98A and portion 98B of the headband portion 98 as it passes through adjuster ring 96 .

[0116] In some embodiments, adjuster ring 96 may be omitted. Fig.16 An illustrative example of a headband without an adjuster ring is shown in FIG.

[0117] like Fig.16 As shown, the headband portion 94 of the headband 92 may include a cavity 104 and an integral retainer ring 106. The retainer ring 106 may be formed by a retainer ring 100 ( Fig.14 ) The retainer ring 106 may be formed of the same material. For example, the fabric layer of the retainer ring 106 may be woven or otherwise attached to the fabric of the headband portion 94.

[0118] Portion 98A of headband portion 98 may pass through cavity 104 before headband portion 98B is folded back through retainer loop 106. In this way, the adjuster loop may be omitted from headband 92, and headband portion 98 may still have a low profile due to retainer loop 106.

[0119] In some embodiments, it may be desirable to create a curved edge at the end of the headband (such as at the end of headband portion 64) that appears seamless. Fig.17 An exemplary headband portion having a curved edge with a seam that is not visible to the naked eye is shown in FIG.

[0120] like Fig.17As shown, the strap 131 can be formed of an inner woven portion 140 and a webbing 134. In particular, the webbing 134 can be sewn, woven, or otherwise coupled to the woven portion 140. For example, the webbing 134 can have a width W of at least 2 mm, 2.65 mm, 5 mm, between 2.5 mm and 5 mm, or less than 7 mm from an edge 142 of the woven portion 140. For example, the woven portion 140 can have a solid loop weave or a ribbed loop weave.

[0121] Although portion 140 has been described as being woven, this is merely exemplary. In general, portion 140 may be knitted, woven, braided, and / or formed using other strand interlacing techniques.

[0122] The webbing 134 may have a woven portion 140 extending from one side (eg, Fig.17 The webbing 134 may have a portion 130 that wraps across a portion of the edge 142 (eg, the left side of the inner woven portion 140). Alternatively, the webbing 134 may have a portion 130 that wraps around a portion of the edge 142 from the opposite side of the inner woven portion 140 (eg, Fig.17 The portion 132 may be wrapped around a portion of the edge 142 (the right side of the inner woven portion 140 in FIG. 1 ). The portion 130 and the portion 132 may meet along the edge 142 (such as in the center of the edge 142).

[0123] If desired, reinforcements may be inserted into the webbing 134. Fig.17 In the illustrative example of , the reinforcement 138 may be inserted into the webbing 134 (such as one side of the webbing 134). In particular, the webbing 134 may have multiple layers, and the reinforcement 138 may be inserted between the multiple layers. Alternatively, the webbing 134 may be formed as a single piece using a flat knitting technique and include a built-in channel (sometimes referred to as a pocket or cavity), and the reinforcement 138 may be inserted into the built-in channel. However, in general, the reinforcement 138 may be inserted into the webbing 134 in any desired manner.

[0124] The reinforcement 138 may be formed of a flexible strip of a cord (such as a braided cord) or a polymer (e.g., an elastomer such as thermoplastic polyurethane). The reinforcement 138 may have sufficient flexibility to allow the headband to bend and twist, but may not stretch substantially along its length, and thus may sometimes be referred to as an inextensible reinforcement, an inextensible member, an inextensible reinforcement structure, etc. The reinforcement 138 may have significantly less elasticity and softness than the fabric of the strap 131, and may be used to increase stiffness and reduce (or eliminate) stretchability at desired portions along the strap 131. At the same time, the flexibility of the reinforcement 138 may allow the strap 131 to bend around the curvature of the user's head. If desired, the reinforcement 138 may be inserted into selected portions of the strap 131 to selectively reinforce the strap 131 at desired portions along its length. For example, the reinforcement 138 may be inserted into one or both sides of the strap 131 and / or into the edges of the strap 131.

[0125] The headband portion 64 may have rounded corners 136 of the webbing 134 and may not have a visible seam (eg, where the portion 130 and the portion 132 meet). Fig.18 An illustrative side view of the headband portion 64 is shown in FIG.

[0126] like Fig.18 As shown, the headband portion 64 may include a layer 144 and a loop 148 (e.g., Fig.17 The webbing on one side of the headband portion 64 (e.g., portion 130) may be joined to the webbing on the other side of the headband portion 64 (e.g., portion 132) at point 146 (e.g., the headband portion 64 may have a single seam at point 146, such as along Fig.17 edge 142). Fig.18 As shown, there may be no visible seam at point 146. In this way, a seam that is not visible to the naked eye may be formed in the headband portion 64.

[0127] In some embodiments, hook and loop fasteners (or other suitable fasteners) may be incorporated into the headband to allow the headband to be adjusted and maintain its position once the headband is adjusted. The hook and loop fasteners may be coupled to the headband using an adhesive, sewing the fasteners to the headband, and / or partially embedding the fasteners within the headband. FIG. 19A to FIG. 19E An illustrative example is shown in .

[0128] like Fig.19A As shown, the hook and loop fastener 150 can be coupled to the portion 140 of the headband portion 64. For example, the hook and loop fastener can be adhesively attached to the headband portion 64.

[0129] Alternatively, if Fig.19BAs shown in the illustrative example of , a single large hook and loop fastener 152 can replace one or more of the hook and loop fasteners 150. The hook and loop fastener 152 can be sewn, knitted, adhesively attached, and / or otherwise attached to the headband portion 64. For example, as indicated by the stitching line 154, the hook and loop fastener 152 can be sewn to the headband portion 64.

[0130] As another example, multiple hook and loop fasteners 150 may be used and may have adjacent edges. Fig.19C As shown in the illustrative example of , the hook and loop fasteners 150 may be adjacent to each other. As indicated by the stitching 154A, each individual hook and loop fastener 150 may be stitched to the headband portion 64. At the adjacent edges of adjacent hook and loop fasteners 150, a shared stitching 154B may be used to fasten adjacent hook and loop fasteners 150 together and to the headband portion 64. However, the use of stitching to fasten the hook and loop fasteners 150 to the headband portion 64 is merely illustrative. In general, the hook and loop fasteners 150 may be coupled to the headband portion 64 in any suitable manner, such as by knitting, adhering and / or otherwise attaching the hook and loop fasteners 150 to the headband portion 64.

[0131] In some embodiments, the hook and loop fastener 150 can be formed on a substrate that is at least partially embedded within the headband. Fig.19D As shown in the illustrative example of , the hook and loop fastener 150 can be formed on a substrate 156. The substrate 156 can be embedded in the headband portion 64, such as embedded in the woven portion 140. For example, the headband portion 64 can have two fabric layers facing outward, and the substrate 156 can be formed between the two fabric layers. In addition to embedding the substrate 156 in the headband portion 64, the substrate 156 can also be sewn to, adhered to, or otherwise attached to the headband portion 64. In this way, the hook and loop fastener 150 can also be attached to the headband portion 64.

[0132] As another example, a double-sided hook and loop fastener may be attached to the headband. Fig.19E In an illustrative example of , hook and loop fastener 150 may include a lower fastener 160 formed on carrier 158 and an upper fastener 166 formed on carrier 164. Carrier 158 and carrier 164 may be coupled to each other, such as using an adhesive. Lower fastener 160 may be coupled to loop 161 on a surface of headband portion 64 (e.g., a portion of woven portion 140). If desired, lower fastener 160 may also be optionally attached to headband portion 64 using adhesive 162. Upper fastener 166 may be used to couple headband portion 64 to another headband portion or to itself (e.g., if headband portion 64 folds back on itself) to maintain its position after headband portion 64 is adjusted.

[0133] Regardless of the fasteners used to maintain the position of a headband, such as headband portion 64, it may be desirable to incorporate one or more drawstrings to adjust the headband portion. Fig. 20 An illustrative example is shown in .

[0134] like Fig. 20 As shown, the drawstring 168 can be incorporated into the headband portion 64, such as at the end of the headband portion 64. In some embodiments, the drawstring 168 can be formed on a surface of the headband portion 64 opposite the hook and loop fastener 150 (FIG. 19).

[0135] The draw strap 168 may have a lower portion 172 that contacts an upper surface 174 of the headband portion 64. In particular, stitching 176 may be used to attach the draw strap 168 to the headband portion 64. The stitching 176 may extend through the upper portion 170 and the lower portion 172 of the draw strap 168 and may attach the draw strap 168 to the headband portion 64. The lower portion 172 may also be attached to the headband portion 64 using stitching 177. In this manner, the draw strap 168 may form a loop that is attached to one surface of the headband portion 64 and may be pulled by a user to release the headband portion 64 (e.g., to adjust the fit of the headband portion 64).

[0136] Although stitches 176 and 177 have been shown and described as stitches, this is merely exemplary. Generally speaking, draw strap 168 may be attached to headband portion 64 in any suitable manner, such as using an adhesive, using laser welding, or another suitable attachment.

[0137] Fig.21 An illustrative example of a headband system including an adjuster ring, a retainer ring, and a draw strap is shown in FIG.

[0138] like Fig.21 As shown, the headband system 167 may include an upper headband 32 and a lower headband 34. The upper headband 32 may be coupled to the lower headband 34, such as by stitching, knitting, laser welding, adhesives, and / or any other suitable fasteners.

[0139] The upper headband 32 may include a retainer loop 100A with a portion 102A. In particular, the upper headband 32 may extend through the retainer loop 100A, through the retainer loop 96A, and may be folded back through the retainer loop 100A. The folded back portion 33 of the upper headband 32 may have a drawstring 168A at the end of the folded back portion 33. On the opposite surface of the folded back portion 33, one or more hook and loop fasteners (e.g., the hook and loop fastener 150 of FIG. 19) may be attached to secure the folded back portion 33 in place after it has been adjusted.

[0140] Similarly, the lower headband 34 may include a retainer loop 100B with a portion 102B. In particular, the lower headband 34 may extend through the retainer loop 100B, through the retainer loop 96B, and may be folded back through the retainer loop 100B. The folded back portion 35 of the lower headband 34 may have a drawstring 168B at the end of the folded back portion 35. On the opposite surface of the folded back portion 35, one or more hook and loop fasteners (e.g., the hook and loop fastener 150 of FIG. 19) may be attached to secure the folded back portion 35 in place after it has been adjusted.

[0141] Fig.21 The arrangement of is merely an example of a headband system that may include an adjuster loop, a retainer loop, and a drawstring. Generally speaking, one or more adjuster loops, retainer loops, and drawstrings may be incorporated into a headband system in any suitable manner.

[0142] As described above, one aspect of the present technology is to collect and use information, such as information from input-output devices. The present disclosure contemplates that, in some cases, data including personal information data may be collected that uniquely identifies or can be used to contact or locate a specific person. Such personal information data may include demographic data, location-based data, phone numbers, email addresses, Twitter IDs, home addresses, data or records related to the user's health or fitness level (e.g., vital sign measurements, medication information, exercise information), date of birth, user name, password, biometric information, or any other identification or personal information.

[0143] The present disclosure recognizes that the use of such personal information in the present technology can be used to benefit users. For example, the personal information data can be used to deliver targeted content that users are more interested in. Therefore, the use of such personal information data enables users to have control over the content delivered. In addition, the present disclosure also anticipates other uses of personal information data that benefit users. For example, health and fitness data can be used to provide insights into the user's overall health status, or can be used as positive feedback to individuals who use technology to pursue health goals.

[0144] The disclosure anticipates that entities responsible for the collection, analysis, disclosure, transmission, storage or other purposes of such personal information data will comply with sound privacy policies and / or privacy measures. In particular, such entities should implement and adhere to the use of privacy policies and practices that are recognized as meeting or exceeding the industry or government requirements for maintaining the privacy and security of personal information data. Such policies should be easy for users to access and should be updated as changes in the collection and / or use of data occur. Personal information from users should be collected for legal and reasonable entity purposes and should not be shared or sold outside these legal purposes. In addition, such collection / sharing should be carried out after receiving the informed consent of the user. Additionally, such entities should consider taking any necessary steps to protect and safeguard access to such personal information data and ensure that other entities with access to personal information data comply with their privacy policies and procedures. Additionally, such entities may subject themselves to third-party assessments to prove that they comply with widely accepted privacy policies and practices. In addition, policies and practices should be adapted to specific types of personal information data collected and / or accessed, and to applicable laws and standards including considerations of special jurisdictions. For example, in the United States, the collection or access of certain health data may be governed by federal and / or state laws such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), while health data in other countries may be subject to other regulations and policies and should be handled accordingly. Therefore, different privacy measures should be advocated for different types of personal data in each country.

[0145] Notwithstanding the foregoing, the present disclosure also contemplates implementation schemes in which users selectively block the use or access of personal information data. That is, the present disclosure contemplates hardware elements and / or software elements to prevent or block access to such personal information data. For example, the technology of the present invention may be configured to allow users to choose to "opt in" or "opt out" to participate in the collection of personal information data at any time during or after registration for a service. For another example, a user may choose not to provide certain types of user data. For another example, a user may choose to limit the length of time that user-specific data is retained. In addition to providing "opt-in" and "opt-out" options, the present disclosure also contemplates providing notifications related to access or use of personal information. For example, a user may be notified that their personal information data will be accessed when downloading an application ("app"), and then the user may be reminded again before the personal information data is accessed by the app.

[0146] Furthermore, it is the intent of the present disclosure that personal information data should be managed and processed in a manner that minimizes the risk of unintentional or unauthorized access or use. Once the data is no longer needed, the risk can be minimized by limiting the collection of data and deleting the data. In addition, and when applicable, including in certain health-related applications, data de-identification can be used to protect the privacy of users. Where appropriate, de-identification can be facilitated by removing specific identifiers (e.g., date of birth, etc.), controlling the amount or characteristics of stored data (e.g., collecting location data at the city level rather than the address level), controlling how the data is stored (e.g., aggregating data across users), and / or other methods.

[0147] Thus, while the present disclosure broadly encompasses the use of information that may include personal information data to implement one or more of the various disclosed embodiments, the present disclosure also contemplates that various embodiments may be implemented without requiring access to personal information data. That is, various embodiments of the present technology will not fail to function properly due to the lack of all or a portion of such personal information data.

[0148] Physical environment: The physical environment refers to the physical world that people can sense and / or interact with without the help of electronic systems. A physical environment (such as a physical park) includes physical objects, such as physical trees, physical buildings, and physical people. People can directly sense and / or interact with the physical environment, such as through vision, touch, hearing, taste, and smell.

[0149] Computer Generated Reality: In contrast, a computer generated reality (CGR) environment refers to a fully or partially simulated environment that people perceive and / or interact with via an electronic system. In CGR, a subset of a person's physical movements or a representation thereof is tracked, and in response, one or more characteristics of one or more virtual objects simulated in the CGR environment are adjusted in a manner that complies with at least one physical law. For example, a CGR system may detect a person's head rotation, and in response, adjust the graphical content and sound field presented to the person in a manner similar to the way such views and sounds change in a physical environment. In some cases (e.g., for accessibility reasons), adjustments to the features of virtual objects in a CGR environment may be made in response to a representation of physical movement (e.g., a voice command). People may sense and / or interact with CGR objects using any of their senses (including vision, hearing, touch, taste, and smell). For example, a person may sense and / or interact with an audio object that creates a 3D or spatial audio environment that provides a perception of a point audio source in 3D space. As another example, an audio object can enable audio transparency that selectively introduces ambient sounds from the physical environment with or without computer-generated audio. In some CGR environments, a person can sense and / or interact only with an audio object. Examples of CGR include virtual reality and mixed reality.

[0150] Virtual Reality: A virtual reality (VR) environment refers to a simulated environment designed to be based entirely on computer-generated sensory input to one or more senses. A VR environment includes a plurality of virtual objects that a person can sense and / or interact with. For example, trees, buildings, and computer-generated images representing avatars of people are examples of virtual objects. A person can sense and / or interact with virtual objects in a VR environment through a simulation of the person's presence within the computer-generated environment and / or through a simulation of a subset of the person's physical movement within the computer-generated environment.

[0151] Mixed reality: In contrast to VR environments, which are designed to be based entirely on computer-generated sensory input, a mixed reality (MR) environment refers to a simulated environment designed to include sensory input from the physical environment or its representation in addition to computer-generated sensory input (e.g., virtual objects). On the virtual continuum, a mixed reality environment is anything between a fully physical environment at one end and a virtual reality environment at the other end, but not including both ends. In some MR environments, computer-generated sensory input may respond to changes in sensory input from the physical environment. In addition, some electronic systems used to present MR environments may track position and / or orientation relative to the physical environment so that virtual objects can interact with real objects (i.e., physical items from the physical environment or their representations). For example, the system may cause movement so that virtual trees appear stationary relative to the physical ground. Examples of mixed reality include augmented reality and augmented virtuality. Augmented reality: An augmented reality (AR) environment refers to a simulated environment in which one or more virtual objects are superimposed on a physical environment or a representation of a physical environment. For example, an electronic system used to present an AR environment may have a transparent or semi-transparent display through which a person can directly view the physical environment. The system may be configured to present virtual objects on a transparent or translucent display so that people use the system to perceive virtual objects superimposed on a physical environment. Alternatively, the system may have an opaque display and one or more imaging sensors that capture images or videos of the physical environment, which are representations of the physical environment. The system combines the image or video with the virtual object and presents the composition on an opaque display. People use the system to indirectly view the physical environment via an image or video of the physical environment and perceive virtual objects superimposed on the physical environment. As used herein, a video of a physical environment displayed on an opaque display is referred to as "transparent video", meaning that the system uses one or more image sensors to capture images of the physical environment and uses those images when presenting an AR environment on an opaque display. Further alternatively, the system may have a projection system that projects virtual objects into a physical environment, such as a hologram or on a physical surface, so that people use the system to perceive virtual objects superimposed on a physical environment. An augmented reality environment also refers to a simulated environment in which a representation of a physical environment is converted by computer-generated sensory information. For example, in providing pass-through video, the system may transform one or more sensor images to impose a selected perspective (e.g., viewpoint) that is different from the perspective captured by the imaging sensor. For another example, the representation of the physical environment may be transformed by graphically modifying (e.g., enlarging) a portion thereof, such that the modified portion may be a representative but not true version of the original captured image. For another example, the representation of the physical environment may be transformed by graphically eliminating or blurring a portion thereof.Augmented Virtual: An augmented virtual (AV) environment refers to a simulated environment in which a virtual or computer-generated environment incorporates one or more sensory inputs from the physical environment. The sensory input may be a representation of one or more characteristics of the physical environment. For example, an AV park may have virtual trees and virtual buildings, but the faces of people are realistically reproduced from images taken of physical people. For another example, a virtual object may take the shape or color of a physical object imaged by one or more imaging sensors. For another example, a virtual object may take a shadow that conforms to the positioning of the sun in the physical environment.

[0152] Hardware: There are many different types of electronic systems that enable a person to sense and / or interact with various CGR environments. Examples include head-mounted systems, projection-based systems, heads-up displays (HUDs), vehicle windshields with integrated display capabilities, windows with integrated display capabilities, displays formed as lenses designed to be placed on a person's eyes (e.g., similar to contact lenses), headphones / earpieces, speaker arrays, input systems (e.g., wearable or handheld controllers with or without tactile feedback), smartphones, tablet computers, and desktop / laptop computers. A head-mounted system may have one or more speakers and an integrated opaque display. Alternatively, a head-mounted system may be configured to accept an external opaque display (e.g., a smartphone). A head-mounted system may incorporate one or more imaging sensors for capturing images or video of the physical environment, and / or one or more microphones for capturing audio of the physical environment. Instead of an opaque display, a head-mounted system may have a transparent or translucent display. A transparent or translucent display may have a medium through which light representing the image is directed to a person's eyes. The display may utilize digital light projection, OLED, LED, μLED, liquid crystal on silicon, laser scanning light source, or any combination of these technologies. The medium may be an optical waveguide, a hologram medium, an optical combiner, an optical reflector, or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, a transparent or translucent display may be configured to selectively become opaque. A projection-based system may employ retinal projection technology that projects a graphic image onto a person's retina. The projection system may also be configured to project a virtual object into a physical environment, such as a hologram or onto a physical surface.

[0153] According to one embodiment, a headband capable of operating with a head-mounted device having a head-mounted shell component is provided to include: an upper headband portion; a lower headband portion, the lower headband portion extending from the upper headband portion, the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion being configured to be connected to the head-mounted shell component, the upper headband portion extending from the head-mounted shell component at an angle of at least 80°, and the lower headband portion extending from the head-mounted shell component at an angle of at least 35°; and a reinforcement, the reinforcement being located in the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion.

[0154] According to another embodiment, the headband includes a temple shell coupled to the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion, the temple shell including an opening configured to couple to the head mounted housing member.

[0155] According to another embodiment, the temple shell comprises a rigid polymer.

[0156] According to another embodiment, the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion include a surface, and the temple housing is coupled to the surface.

[0157] According to another embodiment, the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion include fabric, and the temple shells are embedded in the fabric.

[0158] According to another embodiment, the temple housing extends into the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion.

[0159] According to another embodiment, the temple shell is interposed between the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion, and the temple shell has a first edge and a second edge, and the first edge and the second edge are respectively coupled to the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion.

[0160] According to another embodiment, the upper headband portion is offset from the head mounted shell member by at least 10 mm, and the lower headband portion is offset from the head mounted shell member by at least 15 mm.

[0161] According to another embodiment, the upper headband portion is offset from the head mounted shell member by 0 mm, and the lower headband portion is offset from the head mounted shell member by 18 mm to 35 mm.

[0162] According to another embodiment, the headband includes a first adjustment loop and a second adjustment loop, and the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion include folded back portions passing through the first adjustment loop and the second adjustment loop, respectively.

[0163] According to another embodiment, the headband includes a first soft retainer loop and a second soft retainer loop, and the folded back portions of the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion are configured to pass through the first soft retainer loop and the second soft retainer loop, respectively.

[0164] According to another embodiment, the headband includes a first drawstring and a second drawstring, which are respectively connected to a single surface of the folded back portion of the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion; and a hook and loop fastener, which is connected to the opposite surface of the folded back portion.

[0165] According to another embodiment, the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion include fabric, the hook and loop fastener is formed on a substrate, and the substrate is embedded in the fabric.

[0166] According to another embodiment, the reinforcement comprises a reinforcement in the upper headband portion, the reinforcement having a gradually decreasing stiffness between a first reinforcement region and a second reinforcement region.

[0167] According to another embodiment, the first reinforced region includes an opening configured to couple to the head mounted shell member.

[0168] According to another embodiment, the reinforcement comprises a braided cord extending along an edge of the lower headband portion.

[0169] According to one embodiment, a headband for a head-mounted device capable of operating with a head-mounted device housing is provided, the headband comprising: a first end portion, the first end portion being configured to be connected to a first side of the head-mounted device housing; a second end portion, the second end portion being configured to be connected to an opposite second side of the head-mounted device housing; an upper headband portion, the upper headband portion extending between the first end portion and the second end portion, the upper headband portion comprising a first region having a first stiffness, a second region having a second stiffness less than the first stiffness, and a graded stiffness between the first region and the second region; and a lower headband portion, the lower headband portion extending between the first end portion and the second end portion, the lower headband portion comprising a reinforcement extending along an edge of the lower headband portion.

[0170] According to another embodiment, the upper headband portion is configured to be worn on a top portion of a user's head and the lower headband portion is configured to be worn on a lower rear portion of the user's head.

[0171] According to another embodiment, the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion are attached with an adhesive, the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion include an opening configured to attach to the head mounted device housing, and the first area of ​​the upper headband portion includes the opening.

[0172] According to another embodiment, the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion are integrally formed with each other.

[0173] According to another embodiment, the headband of the head mounted device includes a temple shell coupled to the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion, the temple shell including an opening configured to attach to the head mounted device housing.

[0174] According to one embodiment, a headband configured to be connected to a support member of a head-mounted device housing is provided to include: an upper headband portion; a lower headband portion, which extends from the upper headband portion; and a temple shell, which is connected to the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion, the temple shell including an opening configured to attach to the support member, and the upper headband portion includes a graded reinforcement adjacent to the temple shell.

[0175] According to another embodiment, the upper headband portion includes a first portion, a second portion, and a retainer ring attached to the first portion, and the second portion passes through the retainer ring and folds back through the retainer ring.

[0176] According to another embodiment, the upper headband portion includes an adjuster loop and the second portion is folded back around the adjuster loop.

[0177] According to another embodiment, the retainer ring is integrally formed with the first portion.

[0178] According to another embodiment, the retainer ring comprises a fabric reinforced with a polymer.

[0179] According to another embodiment, the retainer ring is a first retainer ring and the lower headband portion includes a second retainer ring.

[0180] According to another embodiment, the graded stiffener includes a first stiffener layer and a second stiffener layer and a stiffener encapsulation layer, the stiffener encapsulation layer having a thickness that gradually changes along a curved profile.

[0181] According to another embodiment, the upper headband portion includes a strip comprising a woven fabric portion surrounded by a webbing, the webbing having rounded corners at edges of the woven fabric portion, the webbing having a first portion and a second portion, and the first portion and the second portion of the webbing meet at a seam that is not visible to the naked eye.

[0182] The foregoing is merely illustrative and various modifications may be made to the embodiments described. The foregoing embodiments may be implemented independently or in any combination.

Claims

1. A headband operable with a head-mounted device having a head-mounted housing member, the headband comprising: Upper headband part; a lower headband portion extending from the upper headband portion, wherein the upper and lower headband portions are configured to be coupled to the head-mounted shell member, the upper headband portion extending from the head-mounted shell member at an angle of at least 80°, and the lower headband portion extending from the head-mounted shell member at an angle of at least 35°; and A reinforcement member is located in the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion.

2. The headband according to claim 1, further comprising: A temple shell is coupled to the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion, wherein the temple shell includes an opening configured to be coupled to the head-mounted housing member.

3. The headband of claim 2, wherein the temple shells comprise a rigid polymer, and wherein the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion comprise a surface and the temple shells are coupled to the surfaces.

4. The headband of claim 2, wherein the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion comprise fabric, and the temple shells are embedded in the fabric.

5. The headband of claim 1 , wherein the temple shell is inserted between the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion, and the temple shell has a first edge and a second edge, the first edge and the second edge being respectively connected to the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion.

6. The headband of claim 1, wherein the upper headband portion is offset from the head mounted shell member by at least 10 mm, and the lower headband portion is offset from the head mounted shell member by at least 15 mm.

7. The headband of claim 1, wherein the upper headband portion is offset from the head mounted shell member by 0 mm, and the lower headband portion is offset from the head mounted shell member by 18 mm to 35 mm.

8. The headband according to claim 1, further comprising: a first adjustment loop and a second adjustment loop, wherein the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion include folded back portions passing through the first adjustment loop and the second adjustment loop, respectively; a first soft retainer ring and a second soft retainer ring, wherein the folded back portions of the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion are configured to pass through the first soft retainer ring and the second soft retainer ring, respectively; a first drawstring and a second drawstring, the first drawstring and the second drawstring being respectively coupled to single surfaces of the folded-back portions of the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion; and A hook and loop fastener is coupled to the opposing surfaces of the folded back portion, wherein the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion include fabric, the hook and loop fastener is formed on a base, and the base is embedded in the fabric.

9. A headband according to claim 1, wherein the reinforcement includes a reinforcement in the upper headband portion, the reinforcement having a gradually decreasing stiffness between a first reinforcement area and a second reinforcement area, wherein the first reinforcement area includes an opening configured to be connected to the head-mounted shell member, and wherein the reinforcement also includes a braided rope extending along an edge of the lower headband portion.

10. A head-mounted device band operable with a head-mounted device housing, the head-mounted device band comprising: a first end portion configured to be coupled to a first side of the head mounted device housing; a second end portion configured to be coupled to an opposing second side of the head mounted device housing; an upper headband portion extending between the first end and the second end, wherein the upper headband portion includes a first region having a first stiffness, a second region having a second stiffness less than the first stiffness, and a graduated stiffness between the first region and the second region; and A lower headband portion extends between the first end and the second end, wherein the lower headband portion includes a reinforcement extending along an edge of the lower headband portion.

11. A headband for a head-mounted device according to claim 10, wherein the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion are attached with an adhesive, the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion include an opening configured to be attached to the head-mounted device housing, and the first area of ​​the upper headband portion includes the opening.

12. The head mounted device headband of claim 10, wherein the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion are integrally formed with each other.

13. The head mounted device band of claim 10, further comprising: A temple housing is coupled to the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion, wherein the temple housing includes an opening configured to attach to the head mounted device housing.

14. A headband configured to be coupled to a support member of a head mounted device housing, the headband comprising: Upper headband part; a lower headband portion extending from the upper headband portion; and A temple shell is coupled to the upper headband portion and the lower headband portion, wherein the temple shell includes an opening configured to be attached to the support member and the upper headband portion includes a graduated reinforcement adjacent the temple shell.

15. The headband of claim 14, wherein the upper headband portion comprises a first portion, a second portion, and a retainer loop attached to the first portion, and wherein the second portion passes through the retainer loop and folds back through the retainer loop.

16. The headband of claim 15, wherein the upper headband portion further comprises an adjuster loop, wherein the second portion folds back around the adjuster loop.

17. The headband of claim 15, wherein the retainer ring is integrally formed with the first portion.

18. The headgear of claim 15, wherein the retainer ring comprises a fabric reinforced with a polymer.

19. The headband of claim 14, wherein the graduated reinforcement comprises first and second reinforcement layers and a reinforcement encapsulation layer, the reinforcement encapsulation layer having a thickness that gradually changes along a curved profile.

20. The headband of claim 14, wherein the upper headband portion comprises a strap comprising a woven fabric portion surrounded by a webbing, the webbing having rounded corners at edges of the woven fabric portion, the webbing having a first portion and a second portion, and the first portion and the second portion of the webbing meet at a seam that is not visible to the naked eye.

Images