An eye mask

Abstract

This disclosure concerns eye mask. The eye mask comprises an eye component positionable over at least orbital regions of a face of a user and configured to block light to eyes of the user; a face-contacting structure connected to or contiguous with the eye component; and a positioning and stabilising structure for attaching the eye mask to the user's face and a functional module.

Description

1 TECHNICAL FIELD

[001] The present invention relates, in general terms, to an eye mask. 2 BACKGROUND

[002] Sleep is an important component to an individual's wellbeing, growth and vitality. It is also important in today's overstimulated and highly stressed world. In particular, maintaining the wholeness and wholesomeness of the sleep / wake cycle day-to-day and month-to-month is essential to preserve personal well-being and happiness as well as the productivity and good order of society at large. Ideally, the rhythm of the sleep / wake cycle would be governed by the natural order of each day’s sunrise and sunset. The artificial routines of modern personal and social life, however, have eclipsed the rhythms of nature making it more difficult to wake up and go to sleep at appointed times the more the exigencies of one's own routines are in conflict with the natural cycle of things.

[003] Eye masks with a light-tight design which provides a condition of total darkness are known to help stimulate melatonin production and thus serve to promote a state of sleep. However, current eye masks may be uncomfortable, especially for a side sleeper, or too heavy or cumbersome to use.

[004] Certain eye masks may be uncomfortable or impractical, for example, if used for prolonged time periods. Certain eye masks can be complicated for users to attach and to correctly position on the head for effective use.

[005] As a consequence of these challenges, some eye masks suffer from being one or more of obtrusive, aesthetically undesirable, costly, poorly fitting, difficult to use, and uncomfortable especially when worn for long periods of time or when a user is unfamiliar with a system.

[006] It would be desirable to overcome or ameliorate at least one of the above-described problems, or at least to provide a useful alternative. 3 SUMMARY

[007] The present technology is directed towards providing devices used in the screening, diagnosis, monitoring, amelioration, treatment, or prevention of respiratory and / or sleep disorders, and / or monitoring and / or improvement of sleep health generally, having one or more of improved comfort, cost, efficacy, ease of use and manufacturability.

[008] A first aspect of the present technology relates to apparatus used in the screening, diagnosis, monitoring, amelioration, treatment or prevention of a respiratory and / or sleep disorder.

[009] Another aspect of the present technology relates to methods used in the screening, diagnosis, monitoring, amelioration, treatment or prevention of a respiratory and / or sleep disorder.

[0010] An aspect of some forms of the present technology is to provide methods and / or apparatus that improve the compliance of users with respiratory and / or sleep therapy.

[0011] An aspect of some forms of the present technology is to provide methods and / or apparatus that improve the quality of sleep of users.

[0012] Some forms of the present technology are set out below in relation to an eye mask, with the features disclosed below provided in any combination or selection.

[0013] In some forms, the present technology comprises an eye mask, comprising: a) an eye component positionable over at least orbital regions of a face of a user and configured to block light to eyes of the user; and b) a face-contacting structure connected to or contiguous with the eye component; wherein the face-contacting structure comprises a cavity for housing a module.

[0014] The positioning and stabilising structure may be attached to, and / or extend from or be contiguous with, the eye component and / or the face-contacting structure.

[0015] In one form of the present technology, the eye mask comprises at least one cavity such that an internal surface of the eye component is spaced apart from the eyes of the user during use.

[0016] In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure comprises a bridge for stabilising the eye mask on a nasal region of the user's face.

[0017] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure comprises a circumferential band for fitting to a head of the user in use, wherein the eye component is circumferentially attached to a portion of the circumferential band, or is a portion of the circumferential band.

[0018] In one form of the present technology, the eye component is sized to cover a forehead of the user in use.

[0019] In one form of the present technology, the eye mask further comprises a noise reduction component configured to fit over and / or at least partially inside respective ears of the user. In some forms, the noise reduction component is modularly coupled to the eye component.

[0020] In one form of the present technology, the noise reduction component is contiguous with the eye portion.

[0021] In one form of the present technology, the noise reduction component comprises a noise-cancellation component.

[0022] In one form of the present technology, the eye mask may comprise one or more speakers for generating sound, such as white noise, to assist with sleep. The one or more speakers may be provided as part of the noise reduction component (if present).

[0023] In one form of the present technology, the noise-cancellation component comprises active noise-cancellation electronics.

[0024] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure is configured to overlay an otobasion superior of the user's head in use.

[0025] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure is configured to overlay an otobasion superior and otobasion inferior of the user's head in use.

[0026] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure comprises at least one rigidiser.

[0027] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure is bifurcated to form a first bifurcated section and a second bifurcated section, wherein the first and second bifurcated sections jointly cradle a crown of the user's head in use.

[0028] In one form of the present technology, the eye component is pivotable between an open position and a closed position, wherein in use, in the open position, the user's eyes are uncovered, and in the closed position, the user's eyes are covered.

[0029] In one form, the eye mask comprises a pivot mechanism for pivoting the eye component between the open position and the closed position. For example, the eye component may be connected to the positioning and stabilising structure via a pivot mechanism.

[0030] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure comprises a circumferential band for fitting to a head of the user in use, wherein the eye component is circumferentially attached to the circumferential band.

[0031] In one form of the present technology, the eye mask further comprises a sensor module embedded, attached or otherwise disposed therein and / or thereon for measuring user data and / or equipment-related data for screening, monitoring and / or diagnostic purposes.

[0032] In one form of the present technology, the sensor module is integrated with the eye component and / or the face-contacting structure.

[0033] In one form of the present technology, the sensor module is integrated with the positioning and stabilising structure.

[0034] In one form of the present technology, the sensor module is integrated in the functional module.

[0035] In one form of the present technology, the sensor module is configured to sense EEG, PPG, EMG, EOG, or a combination thereof.

[0036] In one form of the present technology, the eye mask further comprises cooling means. For example, the cooling means may be incorporated in or attached to the eye component.

[0037] In one form of the present technology, the eye component is formed from a material selected from perforated textile, breathable foam, elastic fabric material, or a combination thereof.

[0038] In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is formed from a material selected from a perforated textile, breathable foam, elastic fabric material, or a combination thereof.

[0039] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure is formed from a material selected from a perforated textile, elastic fabric material, or a combination thereof.

[0040] In one form of the present technology, the eye mask further comprises a pocket for housing an electronic module, the pocket configured to overlay a forehead of the user in use.

[0041] In one form of the present technology, the eye mask further comprises a pull tab.

[0042] Further forms of the current technology comprise an eye mask, the eye mask comprising: an eye component positionable over at least orbital regions of a face of a user and configured to block light to eyes of the user, the eye component having an anterior surface and opposing posterior surface; a face-contacting structure connected to the posterior surface of the eye component, the facecontacting structure comprising a user-facing surface on the user-facing side of the facecontacting structure and a recess and a cavity formed within the user-facing surface, the perimeter of each of the recess and cavity defined by a wall extending at least from a base portion of each of the recess and cavity to the user-facing surface; the recess positionable in use over the supra orbital and / or frontal bone region of the face of the user and the cavity positionable in use over orbital regions of the face of the user; a positioning and stabilising structure configured to provide a force to hold the eye component and face-contacting structure of the eye mask in an in-use position on the user’s head during use of the eye mask; and a functional module removably housed within the recess.

[0043] In one form, the wall comprises a first side wall portion extending from the perimeter of the recess base portion to the user-facing surface and a second side wall portion opposing the first side wall portion, the first and second side wall portions are spanned by a user-facing surface wall portion.

[0044] In one form, the second side-wall portion forms a portion of the perimeter of the eye mask.

[0045] In one form, the first raised side-wall portion of the recess is the second raised sidewall portion of the cavity.

[0046] In one form, the second raised side-wall portion of the recess is the first raised sidewall portion of the cavity.

[0047] In one form, the eye component has an overall curvature such that the anterior surface of the eye component is substantially convex and the posterior surface of the eye component is substantially concave.

[0048] In one form the face-contacting structure has an overall curvature complementing the substantially concave posterior surface of the eye component.

[0049] In one form, the recess is sized to substantially traverse at least between the left and right supraorbital foramen and / or span the central region of the frontal bone of a user's head in use.

[0050] In one form, the cavity is larger than the recess.

[0051] In one form, the cavity is sized to substantially traverse at least between the left and right zygomatic regions of a user’s head in use.

[0052] In one form the recess is positioned superior to the cavity.

[0053] In one form the wall of the recess comprises a first raised wall section extending laterally along a top edge of the recess, proximate a top edge of the eye mask, and a second raised wall section spaced apart from the first raised wall section and extending laterally along a bottom edge of the recess, distal from the top edge of the eye mask.

[0054] In one form, the first raised wall section comprises a first side wall portion and a second side wall portion opposing the first side wall portion, the first and second side wall portions spanned by a user-facing surface wall portion.

[0055] In one form, the second raised wall section comprises a first side wall portion and a second side wall portion opposing the first side wall portion, the first and second side wall portions spanned by a user-facing surface wall portion.

[0056] In one form the first raised wall section extends from a base portion of the recess a greater distance than the second raised wall section, such that the user-facing surface wall portion of the first raised wall section abuts the user’s face when the mask is in use.

[0057] In one form a depth from the base portion of the recess to the user-facing surface of the wall extending at least from a base portion of each of the recess to the user-facing surface is greater near the centre of the recess compared to this depth at the lateral edges of the recess.

[0058] In one form the combined thickness of the eye component and face-contacting structure between the base of the recess and an adjacent anterior surface of the eye component is in the range of 3mm - 50mm.

[0059] In one form the combined thickness extends from 3mm - 10mm at or near a centre of the recess, and 10mm - 30mm at or near the lateral sides of the eye mask.

[0060] In one form, the first side wall portion and / or a second side wall portion of the second raised wall section are variable in height along the length of the second raised wall section. [0061 ] In one form, the first side wall portion and / or a second side wall portion of the second raised wall section are variable in height along the length of the first raised wall section.

[0062] In one form the first side wall portion and second side wall portions of the second raised wall section each have an area of reduced height compared to the height of the first side wall portion and second side wall portions of the second raised wall section along the remainder of the second raised wall section.

[0063] In one form the recesses and walls of the eye mask comprise / are formed from a shaped eye component and a complementary shaped face-contacting structure. In other forms, the recesses and walls comprise / are formed from a shaped face-contacting structure.

[0064] In one form the face-contacting structure comprises a thermoformed textile.

[0065] In one form the eye component comprises a textile and / or foam.

[0066] In further forms, the eye component comprises a laminate of textile and foam. In some forms the laminate may be thermoformed.

[0067] In one form the eye component comprises a laminate of textile and foam and is formed such that the first anterior surface of the eye component comprises a textile and the opposing inner surface of the eye component comprises a foam.

[0068] In one form, the eye component comprises a textile layer on the anterior surface of the eye component, the textile layer connected to a periphery or edge of the eye component and / or face-contacting structure.

[0069] In one form, the textile layer is not connected to the anterior surface of the eye component.

[0070] In one form, the textile layer is a stretchable textile such as a knit fabric or stretchable non-woven. In some forms the stretchable fabric is a two-way or four-way stretch fabric.

[0071] In one form, the eye component or parts thereof are compressible.

[0072] In one form, the face-contacting structure or parts thereof are compressible.

[0073] In one form, the eye component may differ in density, compressibility, elasticity, resilience or stiffness at different regions of the eye component.

[0074] In one form, the face-contacting structure may differ in density, compressibility, elasticity, flexibility, resilience or stiffness at different regions of the face-contacting structure.

[0075] In one form, the user-facing surface of the face-contacting structure is compressible.

[0076] In other forms, the wall of the face-contacting structure encloses an air pocket.

[0077] In one form a base portion of the recess comprises one or more connectors for engaging with a complementary connector on the functional module.

[0078] In other forms the first side wall portion of the wall comprises one or more connectors for engaging with a complementary connector on the functional module.

[0079] In one form the connector may be any one or more of a mechanical connection, hook and / or loop material, friction fit connection, press-fit studs, conductive fasteners, spring release engagement, textile pockets or male / female connectors or combination thereof.

[0080] In one form the connector may be one or more magnets. In some forms the connector comprises two magnets with reverse polarity.

[0081] In one form the one or more connectors for engaging with a complementary connector on the function module is a magnetic connector.

[0082] In one form the magnetic connector is in the form of a magnetic or partially magnetic scaffold or cage.

[0083] In one form, a base portion of the recess or first side wall side portion of the wall comprises a sensor pad.

[0084] In one form the eye component and face-contacting structure are connected together at a seam or connecting edge and the seam or connecting edge is not positioned on the userfacing surface of the face-contacting structure. In some forms the seam of connecting edge is formed on the first or second side wall portion of the wall to prevent contact with the user’s face.

[0085] Further forms of the current technology comprise an eye mask, the eye mask comprising: an eye component positionable over at least orbital regions of a face of a user and configured to block light to eyes of the user, the eye component having an anterior surface and opposing posterior surface; a face-contacting structure connected to the posterior surface of the eye component, the facecontacting structure comprising a user-facing surface on the user-facing side of the face contacting structure and a recess and / or cavity formed within the user-facing surface, the perimeter of the recess and / or cavity defined by a wall extending at least from a base portion of the recess and / or cavity to the user-facing surface, the base portion of the recess positionable in use over the supra orbital and / or frontal bone region and / or orbital regions of the face of the user; a positioning and stabilising structure configured to provide a force to hold the eye component and face-contacting structure of the eye mask in an in-use position on the user’s head during use of the eye mask; and a functional module removably connectable to the base portion of the recess; wherein the face-contacting structure further comprises a bridge portion positionable over a nasal region of a user’s face, the bridge portion connected to the eye component and shaped to define a compressive region between the face-contacting structure and the eye-component.

[0086] In one form, the wall of the recess and / or cavity comprises a first raised wall section extending laterally along a top edge of the recess and / or cavity, proximate a top edge of the eye mask, and a second raised wall section spaced apart from the first raised wall section and extending laterally along a bottom edge of the recess and / or cavity, distal from the top edge of the eye mask.

[0087] In one form, the first raised wall section is more resiliently flexible than the second raised wall section.

[0088] In some forms, the eye mask comprises a recess positionable in use over the supra orbital and / or frontal bone region and the first raised wall section extends from a base portion of the recess a greater distance than the second raised wall section extends from the base portion of the recess, such that the user-facing surface wall portion of the first raised wall section abuts the user’s face when the mask is in use.

[0089] In one form, the face-contacting structure comprises walls defining the perimeter of base portions of two separate recesses, the walls each having a user-facing surface wall portion bridging a first side wall portion extending towards the eye component and an opposing second side wall portion extending towards the eye component, the first side wall portion of the each wall defining the perimeter of a base portion of each recess, the base portion of each recess formed by the face-contacting structure, the base portion of a recess positionable in use over the supra orbital and / or frontal bone region of the face of the user and the base portion of a cavity positionable in use over orbital regions of the face of the user.

[0090] In one form, the bridge portion comprises a third raised wall section comprising a first side wall portion and a second side wall portion opposing the first side wall portion, the first and second side wall portions spanned by a user-facing surface wall portion, the third raised wall section proximate a lower edge of the eye mask.

[0091] In other forms, the third raised wall section comprises a compressive region defined by the first side wall portion, second side wall portion, user-facing surface wall portion of the wall and a posterior surface of the eye component.

[0092] In one form, the compressive region is an air-pocket.

[0093] In other forms, the third raised wall section comprises a compressible or deformable member encased by the first side wall portion, second side wall portion, user-facing surface wall portion and the posterior surface of the eye component.

[0094] In some forms, the compressible or deformable member is an open cell foam, closed cell foam, low density foam, memory foam, gel or beads.

[0095] In one form, the third raised wall section is formed from a compressible material to provide a comfortable engagement around the nasal region.

[0096] In one form, the third raised wall section further comprises a hinge feature in the form of a crease, channel, groove, fold or pleat that may act as a hinge when a force is applied to the bridge portion when the eye mask is in use, deforming the bridge portion.

[0097] In one form, the hinge feature is formed in the second side wall portion of the third raised wall section.

[0098] In one form, the third raised wall section has a substantially “C” shaped cross section.

[0099] In one form, the third raised wall section is adapted to enable a change of the crosssectional shape of the third raised wall section from a first undeformed cross-sectional shape when the eye mask is not in use to a second deformed cross-sectional shape when the eye mask is in use and held against the user’s face under force from the positioning and stabilising structure.

[00100] In some forms the bridge portion is characterised by a height to width ratio of about 1:1 to about 5:1.

[00101] Further forms of the current technology comprise an eye mask, comprising: an eye component positionable over at least orbital regions of a face of a user and configured to block light to eyes of the user, the eye component having a first anterior surface and opposing posterior surface; a face-contacting structure connected to the posterior surface of the eye component, the facecontacting structure comprising a user-facing surface on the user-facing side of the facecontacting structure and a recess formed within the user-facing surface, the perimeter of the recess defined by a wall extending at least from a base portion of the recess to the user-facing surface, the base portion of the recess positionable in use over the supra orbital and / or frontal bone region and / or orbital regions of the face of the user; a positioning and stabilising structure configured to provide a force to hold the eye component and face-contacting structure of the eye mask in an in-use position on the user’s head during use of the eye mask; and a functional module removably connected to the base portion of the recess, the functional module arcuated and sized to substantially traverse at least between the left and right supraorbital foramen and / or span the central region of the frontal bone of a user's head in use.

[00102] In one form the functional module comprises a convex side and a concave side, the concave side comprising a user-contacting layer comprising a textile, fabric composite, silicone pad, cushion region, fragrance delivery mechanism, sensor, cooling material, gripping material, massage component, light source or combination thereof.

[00103] In one form the user-contacting layer comprises a moisture-wicking fabric, antibacterial fabric, breathable fabric or combination thereof.

[00104] In one form the user-contacting layer further comprises a conductive material for use as an electrode.

[00105] In one form, the conductive material is conductive silicone or conductive thread.

[00106] In one form the conductive material is incorporated onto the user-contacting layer as one or more shapes or patterns.

[00107] In one form the functional module comprises a first end portion, a second end portion, and a middle portion flanked by the first end portion and the second end portion, wherein a width of the first end portion, second end portion and middle portion are substantially the same.

[00108] In one form the first end portion and second end portions have a rounded edge.

[00109] In one form the concave side of the functional module comprises a foam adjacent to the user-contacting layer.

[00110] In one form the functional module comprises a cavity for housing at least one component, wherein the cavity comprises at least one component-retaining structure for engaging the component.

[00111] In one form the component-retaining structure is selected from a friction fit, snap fit, spring release fit, magnetic coupling, or a combination thereof.

[00112] In one form the user-contacting layer comprises a window for exposing a portion of the component.

[00113] In one form, the functional module comprises a connector for engaging with a complementary connector in or on the recess of the eye mask.

[00114] In one form the connector may be any one or more of a mechanical connection, hook and / or loop material, friction fit connection, press-fit studs, conductive fasteners, spring release engagement, textile pockets or male / female connectors or combination thereof.

[00115] In one form the connector may be one or more magnets. In some forms the connector comprises two magnets with reverse polarity.

[00116] In one form the functional module houses at least one of the following components selected from a sensor component, noise reduction component, pivot component, cooling component, imaging component, massage component, visual component, audio component, charging component, and power supply.

[00117] In one form the sensor component is selected from a electroencephalography (EEG) sensor, a photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor, electromyography (EMG) sensor, electrooculography (EOG) sensor, a pulse oximeter (SpO2) sensor, respiratory rate (RR) sensor, heart rate (HR) sensor, and a heart rate variability (HRV) sensor.

[00118] In one form, the functional module further comprises a magnetic charging port configured to engage with a magnetic cover.

[00119] In one form the functional module has a depth representing the distance between the concave side and the convex side of the functional module, the depth of the functional module being greater than the distance between the base of the recess and the user-facing surface wall portion of the wall around the perimeter of the recess.

[00120] Further forms of the present technology comprise a functional module for use with an eye mask comprising an eye covering component positionable over at least orbital regions of a face of a user and configured to block light to eyes of the user, a face-contacting component connected to or contiguous with the eye covering component, the face-contacting structure comprising a recess,

[00121] wherein the functional module is dimensioned to fit within the elongate cavity recess to substantially traverse at least between the left and right supraorbital foramen of a user's head in use; and

[00122] wherein the functional module is resiliently flexible so as to conform to the user's head when the eye mask is donned by the user.

[00123] In some forms the functional module comprises one or more ports located on the concave side or one or more side faces of the functional module.

[00124] In some forms the positioning and stabilising structure comprises at least one rigidiser.

[00125] Forms of the present technology further comprise an eye mask, comprising: an eye covering component positionable over at least orbital regions of a face of a user and configured to block light to eyes of the user; an face-contacting structure connected to or contiguous with the eye covering component, the face-contacting structure comprises a recess, the recess positionable at a frontal region of the user's face during use; a positioning and stabilising structure for attaching the eye mask to the user's face; wherein a functional module as disclosed herein is housed within the recess.

[00126] Forms of the present technology comprises a system for screening, monitoring and / or diagnosing a physical state of a user, comprising: a functional module as disclosed herein, the functional module comprising a processor integrated with the components within the functional module in a single circuitry; wherein the processor is configured to receive data from at least one component within the functional module in order to determine a physical state of the user and administer an intervention. 4 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the drawings in which: FIG. 1A shows an eye mask in a use position. FIG. IB shows a back view of the eye mask of FIG. 1A. FIG. 2A shows an eye mask in a pre-use position. FIG. 2B shows an eye mask in a use position. FIG. 2C shows an eye mask in a pre-use position. FIG. 3A shows an eye mask in a use position. FIG. 3B shows a user facing side of the eye component and face-contacting structure of eye mask of FIG. 3A. FIG. 4A shows an eye mask in a use position. FIG. 4B shows a perspective view of the eye mask of FIG. 4A. FIG. 4C shows an exploded view of a noise reduction component. FIG. 5A shows an eye mask in a use position. FIG. 5B shows a side view of the eye mask of FIG. 5A. FIG. 6A shows an eye mask in a use position. FIG. 6B shows a side view of the eye mask of FIG. 6A. FIG. 7A shows an eye mask in a use position. FIG. 7B shows a back view of the eye mask of FIG. 7A. FIG. 7C shows a back view of the eye mask of FIG. 7A. FIG. 8A shows an eye mask in a use position. FIG. 8B shows a back view of the eye mask of FIG. 8A. FIG. 9A shows an eye mask in a pre-use position. FIG. 9B shows an eye mask in a use position. FIG. 9C shows a top view of the eye mask of FIG. 9A. FIG. 10A shows an eye mask in a pre-use position. FIG. 10B shows an eye mask in a use position. FIG. 11A shows an eye mask in a use position. FIG. 1 IB shows a back view of the eye mask of FIG. 11 A. FIG. 12A shows an eye mask in a use position. FIG. 12B shows an exploded view of the eye mask with a cooling means. FIG. 13A shows an eye mask in a use position. FIG. 13B shows a back view of the eye mask of FIG. 13 A. FIG. 14 shows front and back views of an eye mask. FIG. 15A shows a front view of an eye mask. FIG. 15B shows a back view of the eye mask of FIG. 15 A. FIG. 16A shows an eye mask in a pre-use position. FIG. 16B shows the eye mask of FIG. 16A in a use position. FIG. 17 shows use and pre-use positions of an eye mask. FIG. 18 A shows a back view of an eye mask. FIG. 18B shows another back view of eye mask of FIG. 18A. FIG. 19 shows a front perspective view of a functional module for an eye mask. FIG. 20A shows a rear perspective view of another functional module for an eye mask. FIG. 20B shows a front view of the functional module of FIG. 20A. FIG. 20C shows a bottom view of the functional module of FIG. 20A. FIG. 20D shows a cross sectional view of the functional module of FIG. 20A. FIG.21A shows a rear perspective view of a functional module without a backing at the convex side. FIG. 2IB illustrates a side perspective view of the functional module of FIG. 21 A. FIG. 2IC shows a side perspective view of another embodiment of a functional module. FIG. 2ID shows a cross sectional view of the functional module of FIG. 21 A. FIG. 22 shows a block diagram of a system for implementing aspects of the present technology. FIG. 23 shows an architectural block diagram of a system for implementing aspects of the present technology. FIG. 24 shows an architectural block diagram of a system for implementing aspects of the present technology. FIG. 25 shows a flow diagram of a process for sleep interventions using audio and / or light. FIG. 26 shows a flow diagram of a process for sleep interventions using audio and / or light. FIG. 27 is an exploded view of a functional module according to examples of the present technology. FIG. 28 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view through the functional module of FIG. 27. FIG. 29 is a bottom view of the functional module of FIG. 27. FIG. 30 shows a front perspective view of an eye mask in an in use position. FIG. 31 shows a front view of an eye mask in one form of the invention. FIG. 32 shows a side view of an eye mask in one form of the invention. FIG. 33 shows a rear perspective view of the eye mask in one form of the invention. FIG. 34 shows an eye mask in use on a user in one form of the invention. FIG. 35 shows a front view of the bones of a skull including the frontal, nasal and zygomatic bones. FIG. 36 shows a side view of a head with several features of surface anatomy identified including glabella, sellion, pronasale and nasal ridge, along with the directions superior, inferior, anterior and posterior. FIG. 37 shows a view of the face-contacting structure of the eye mask with the functional module removed. FIG. 38 and FIG. 39 show a perspective view of the construction of the eye component in one form of the invention. FIG. 40 shows a perspective view of the construction of the eye component in a further form of the invention. FIG. 41 shows the construction of a face-contacting structure of the eye mask in one form of the invention. FIG. 42 shows a cross section of the eye component and face contacting structure of the eye mask in one form of the invention. FIG. 43 shows a cross section of the eye component and face contacting structure comprising an air pocket in one form of the invention. FIG. 44 shows a vertical cross section of the eye mask in one form of the invention. FIG. 45 and 46 show a cross section of an air pocket in the bridge portion of the face-contacting structure in one form of the invention. FIG. 47 and 48 show a cross section of an air pocket in the bridge portion of the face-contacting structure in a further form of the invention. FIG. 49 shows a functional module connector on the face-contacting structure of the eye mask in one form of the invention. FIG. 50 shows a top view of the functional module connected to the face-contacting structure of the eye mask in one form of the invention. FIG. 51 shows a user wearing an eye mask formed in one form of the invention. FIG. 52 shows a top view of an eye mask in one form of the invention indicating cross section placement for FIG 52A - 52C. FIG. 52A shows a cross section A-A of the eye mask in one form of the invention. FIG. 52B shows a cross section B-B of the eye mask in one form of the invention. FIG. 52C shows a cross section C-C of the eye mask in one form of the invention. FIG. 53 shows a rear perspective view of the eye mask on one form of the invention. 5 DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[00127] Before the present technology is described in further detail, it is to be understood that the technology is not limited to the particular examples described herein, which may vary. It will be appreciated that many further modifications and permutations of various aspects of the described embodiments are possible. Accordingly, the described aspects are intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. It is also to be understood that the terminology used in this disclosure is for the purpose of describing only the particular examples discussed herein, and is not intended to be limiting.

[00128] The following description is provided in relation to various examples which may share one or more common characteristics and / or features. It is to be understood that one or more features of any one example may be combinable with one or more features of another example or other examples. In addition, any single feature or combination of features in any of the examples may constitute a further example.

[00129] Throughout this specification and the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise”, and variations such as “comprises” and “comprising”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.

[00130] Throughout this specification and the claims, unless the context requires otherwise, the phrase "consisting essentially of", and variations such as "consists essentially of" will be understood to indicate that the recited element(s) is / are essential i.e. necessary elements of the invention. The phrase allows for the presence of other non-recited elements which do not materially affect the characteristics of the invention but excludes additional unspecified elements which would affect the basic and novel characteristics of the method defined.

[00131] The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from it), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgment or admission or any form of suggestion that that prior publication (or information derived from it) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates. 5.1 EYE MASK

[00132] The eye mask in accordance with one aspect of the present technology comprises the following functional aspects: an eye component positionable over at least orbital regions of a face of a user and configured to block light to eyes of the user, a face-contacting structure connected to or contiguous with the eye component, a positioning and stabilising structure configured to provide a force to retain the eye mask on the user's face, and optionally a functional module housed within the face-contacting structure. In use, the eye component blocks out light to the user's eyes, and the face-contacting structure and functional module may further block out light to the eyes of the user.

[00133] The eye mask in accordance with one form of the present technology is constructed and arranged to be able to provide comfort to the user in use, by blocking out light and optionally sound, and optionally provide additional comfort, light blocking or additional functionality either through the functional module, or the eye component and / or face contacting structure, or positioning and stabilising structure of the mask. The eye mask may be geometrically sized to fit a head according to anthropolgical data. The eye mask may be dimensioned based on nationalities, races, genders, and / or ethnicities. In some forms, the eye mask may be geometrically sized to fit an Asian's head. One or more geometric parameters of the eye mask, such as width, height, and / or curvature in one or more regions of the face-contacting structure (e.g. in a nose bridge region, a region spanning the levator labii superiorus, and / or a region spanning the zygomaticus minor) may be calculated based on anthropological data from an Asian population.

[00134] The eye mask in accordance with one form of the present technology may be constructed and arranged to be able to monitor and diagnose a sleep pattern or sleep state of a user. In some forms, the eye mask may provide a corrective output to the user based on the sleep pattern or sleep state. In some forms of the present technology, the eye mask further comprises a comfort module, a sensor module, a cooling module, a flip module, a massaging module, a noise reduction component, an imaging module, or a combination thereof, which may be incorporated within or separate from the functional module. The eye mask may further comprise an electronic module for sensing and / or sensory interventions, such as an interventional light module, an interventional audio module, an interventional haptic module, a cooling / warming (thermal) module, an electro-neural stimulation (massage) module, a fluidic (air mover) module, or a combination thereof. The electronic module may be incorporated within or separate from the functional module. 5.2 EYE COMPONENT

[00135] At least part of the eye component may be resiliently stretchable to enable it to be readily fitted to the user’s head, and to accommodate a variety of different head sizes. In some embodiments, the entirety of the eye mask may be stretchable and / or resiliently flexible / bendable in at least a radial direction.

[00136] In one form of the present technology, the eye component is sized to block light to the eyes of the user. In this regard, in use, the eye component is sized such that it covers at least orbital regions of a face of a user. The orbital region includes a supra-orbital region. The eye component may be configured to block light to eyes of the user. The eye component may be sized to cover more than the orbital regions of the user's face. The eye component may be sized to further cover a portion of an infra-orbital region of the user in use. The eye component may be sized to further cover a portion of a nasal region of the user. The eye component may be sized to further cover a portion of a zygomatic region of the user. The eye component may be sized to further cover a forehead of the user. An oversized eye component may double up as a pillow and provide comfort to the user.

[00137] In one form of the present technology, the eye component is sized to cover at least a portion of a frontal region, orbital regions, zygomatic region and nasal bridge of a face of a user.

[00138] In one form of the present technology, the eye mask comprises at least one cavity at a user facing side. The eye component may act in combination with the face-contacting structure to form the cavity. In this regard, the cavity may be bordered by edges of the face-contacting structure and an inner surface of the eye component. The cavity may be configured to space the eye component apart from the eyes of the user. Accordingly, an internal surface of the eye component is spaced apart from the eyes of the user during use.

[00139] The cavity may be characterised by a depth of about 1 cm to about 15 cm, about 1 cm to about 14 cm, about 1 cm to about 13 cm, about 1 cm to about 12 cm, about 1 cm to about 11 cm, about 1 cm to about 10 cm, about 2 cm to about 10 cm, about 3 cm to about 10 cm, about 4 cm to about 10 cm, about 5 cm to about 10 cm, about 6 cm to about 10 cm, about 7 cm to about 10 cm, or about 8 cm to about 10 cm. The depth of the cavity may be configured by varying the height of the face-contacting structure. In addition, the cavity depth may vary depending on the width of the eye mask and the cavity may vary in depth across the width and length of the cavity.

[00140] In one form of the present technology, the eye component has a curved morphology. The curved morphology may be relative to a frontal plane of the user and / or a transverse plane of the user. The curved morphology of the eye component conforms to the user's face, and provides better skin contact and light blocking. For example, the eye component may be a hyperbolic paraboloid.

[00141] In one form of the present technology, the eye component is resilient flexible so as to conform to the user's head when in use.

[00142] In one form of the present technology, the eye component is configured to have a greater flexibility at the lateral edges of the eye component compared to a central region of the eye component.

[00143] In one form of the present technology, the eye component is formed as a loop or band, and the eye component is configured to loop circumferentially around a user's head.

[00144] In one form of the present technology, the eye component comprises a left section positionable over a left orbital region of the user's face and a right section positionable over a right orbital region of the user's face. The left section and right section may be similarly sized. The left and right section may be held in position relative to each other by the face-contacting structure.

[00145] In one form of the present technology, the eye component comprises at least one pocket or recess. The pocket or recess may be sized to house a sensor module, a cooling module, a flip module, a noise reduction component, an imaging module, or a combination thereof. The pocket may further house an interventional light module, an interventional audio module, an interventional haptic module, a warming module, a massaging module, an air mover module, or a combination thereof.

[00146] In one form, the external, or anterior surface of the eye component surface is substantially smooth. In other forms, the anterior surface may comprise curves, ridges or bulges that correspond to structural components formed on the posterior or user-facing side of the eye mask.

[00147] In some forms, a window may be incorporated into the eye component.

[00148] In one form of the present technology, the eye component is formed from a perforated, light blocking fabric material or composite material. In this case, direct transmission of light to the eyes is prevented by light scattering and absorption of light as it travels along the tortuous paths through the fabric material or composite material. The eye component may be made breathable, so as to provide comfort to the user. For example, silk, cotton or fleece may be used. The eye component may be formed from a material selected from perforated textile, breathable foam and / or fiber. Fabrics that are naturally thick and dense may also be used, such as velvet, heavy cotton, or woven jacquard. These fabrics have a tighter weave or a heavier weight, which helps to minimise the amount of light that can penetrate the material. Alternatively, a fabric composite material may be used. The composite material may be a laminated material. The composite material may comprise an inner fabric and an outer fabric. An intermediate layer may be sandwiched between the inner and outer fabric. The intermediate layer may be a soft flexible foam, fiber-fill, elastomeric / flexible lattice structures, pliable aggregates / beads, or combinations thereof.

[00149] In some forms of the present technology, the eye component is formed from an elastic fabric material. For example, polyester, cotton, spandex, or nylon may be used, which may be further laminated with another fabric to increase its light blocking properties. 5.3 FACE-CONTACTING STRUCTURE

[00150] The eye mask comprises a face-contacting structure. As it is in direct contact with the user’s face, the shape and configuration of the face-contacting structure can have a direct impact on the effectiveness and comfort of the eye mask.

[00151] The design of a face-contacting structure presents a number of challenges. The face has a complex three-dimensional shape. The size and shape of noses and heads varies considerably between individuals. Since the head includes bone, cartilage and soft tissue, different regions of the face respond differently to mechanical forces.

[00152] One type of face-contacting structure extends around the periphery of the eye mask and is intended to seal against the user’s face when force is applied to the eye mask with the face-contacting structure in confronting engagement with the user’s face. The face-contacting structure may include a pad made of a polyurethane (PU). The face-contacting structure may be a PU foam.

[00153] It was found that through the use of a more pliable material shaped to contour the face of the user more closely (based on anthropological data) and / or flap seal, the face-contacting structure provides a better light-tight seal compared to earlier eye masks. In earlier eye masks, the regions not engaged at all by the face-contacting structure may allow gaps to form between the face-contacting structure and the user’s face through which undesirable light pollution may ingress into the eye mask. The light pollution or “light leak” may decrease the efficacy and enjoyment of the overall immersive experience, or reduce the effectiveness of the eye mask as a sleep aid, for the user. In addition, previous systems may be difficult to adjust to enable application for a wide variety of head sizes. Further still, previously known eye masks and their associated stabilizing structures may often be relatively heavy and may be difficult to clean which may thus further limit the comfort and useability of the system.

[00154] Another type of face-contacting structure incorporates a flap seal of thin material positioned about a portion of the periphery thereof so as to provide a sealing action against the face of the user. Like the previous style of face-contacting structure, if the match between the face and the face-contacting structure is not good, additional force may be required to achieve a seal, or light may leak into the eye mask in-use. Furthermore, if the shape of the face-contacting structure does not match that of the user, it may crease or buckle in-use, giving rise to undesirable light penetration.

[00155] Some face-contacting structures may be limited to engaging with regions of the user’s face that protrude beyond the arc of curvature of the face engaging surface of the facecontacting structure. These regions may typically include the user’s forehead and cheek bones. This may result in user discomfort at localised stress points. Other facial regions may not be engaged at all by the face-contacting structure or may only be engaged in a negligible manner that may thus be insufficient to increase the translation distance of the clamping pressure. These regions may typically include the sides of the user’s face, or the region adjacent and surrounding the user’s nose. To the extent to which there is a mismatch between the shape of the users’ face and the face-contacting structure, it is advantageous for the face-contacting structure or a related component to be adaptable in order for an appropriate contact or other relationship to form.

[00156] In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure provides a target interfacing region, and may additionally provide a cushioning function. The target interfacing region is a region on the face-contacting structure where contact of the face-contacting structure with the user's face may occur. The region where contact actually occurs may change within a given sleep session, from day to day, and from user to user, depending on a range of factors including for example, where the eye mask was placed on the face, tension in the positioning and stabilising structure and the shape of a user’s face.

[00157] The face-contacting structure is connected to or contiguous with the eye component. The face-contacting structure acts together with the eye component to block out light to the user's eyes. For example, the face-contacting structure may be laminated to the eye component.

[00158] In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is configured to contact at least the orbital regions of the user's face. In other forms,the face-contacting structure may also contact eyes of the user, providing slight pressure on the eyes to aid sleep.

[00159] In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is configured to contact a supra-orbital region of the user's face. The face-contacting structure may be formed to contact more than the orbital regions of the user's face. The face-contacting structure may further contact an infra-orbital region of the user. The face-contacting structure may further contact a portion of a nasal region of the user. In this regard, the face-contacting structure may overlap a nose bridge region or on a nose-ridge region of the user's face. The face-contacting structure may further contact a portion of a zygomatic region of the user’s head. The face-contacting structure may further contact a forehead of the user.

[00160] In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is configured to surround at least the orbital regions of the user's face. The face-contacting structure may comprise at least one orifice for housing an eye of the user. In this regard, while the eye mask obstructs light to the eyes, the eye mask does not contact the orbital regions and eyes of the user. The face-contacting structure may further not contact the eyelashes and / or eye brows of the user.

[00161] In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is configured to surround a supra-orbital region of the user's face. The face-contacting structure may be formed to surround more than the orbital regions of the user's face. The face-contacting structure may further surround an infra-orbital region of the user. The face-contacting structure may further surround a portion of a nasal region of the user. The face-contacting structure may further surround a portion of a zygomatic region of the user’s head. The face-contacting structure may further surround a forehead of the user.

[00162] In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is sized to contact at least a portion of a frontal region, orbital regions, zygomatic region and nasal bridge of a face of a user.

[00163] In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is characterised by a height of about 1 cm to about 15 cm, about 1 cm to about 14 cm, about 1 cm to about 13 cm, about 1 cm to about 12 cm, about 1 cm to about 11 cm, about 1 cm to about 10 cm, about 2 cm to about 10 cm, about 3 cm to about 10 cm, about 4 cm to about 10 cm, about 5 cm to about 10 cm, about 6 cm to about 10 cm, about 7 cm to about 10 cm, or about 8 cm to about 10 cm. The height of the face-contacting structure creates a cavity such that the eyes of the user is spaced apart from the eye component.

[00164] In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure comprises a bridge portion or a saddle-shaped region for saddling the nasal region of the user's face. The bridge portion saddles between the left and right orbital sections of the eye component. The bridge portion may be constructed to form a seal in use on a nose bridge region or on a noseridge region of the user's face. The bridge portion may be made of a different material (for example, a stiffer material) than the rest of the face-contacting structure to provide stability to the eye mask when used. For example, the bridge portion may be a thermoformed material.

[00165] In one form of the present technology, the bridge portion is formed as a single entity. In this regard, the bridge portion is formed by curving the material such that it forms a parabola. In one form of the present technology, the bridge portion is characterised by a height to width ratio of about 1:1 to about 5:1, about 1:1 to about 4:1, about 1:1 to about 3:1, about 1:1 to about 2:1, or about 1.5:1 to about 2:1.

[00166] In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is contoured to conform to the user's face. For example, the face-contacting structure may be a hyperbolic paraboloid. In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is contoured to conform to the user's face when in use. For example, the face-contacting structure may be resiliently flexible.

[00167] In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is substantially similarly sized to, or smaller than the eye component. In this regard, the face-contacting structure is not visible when the eye mask is worn. For example, when the eye component and the facecontacting structure together form a loop or a band, the face-contacting structure may not be visible when the eye mask is worn.

[00168] In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is larger than the eye component. The face-contacting structure may form a border surrounding the eye component. Further, portions of the face-contacting structure may be visible when the eye mask is worn. For example, when the eye component comprises left and right orbital sections, a bridge portion of the face-contacting structure may be exposed and visible when the eye mask is worn.

[00169] In certain forms of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is constructed from a biocompatible material, e.g. silicone rubber. The face-contacting structure may be constructed from a soft, flexible, resilient material such as silicone. The face-contacting structure may be constructed from a breathable foam. The foam may have a thickness of about 1 cm to about 10 cm. The face-contacting structure may have a gradient of decreasing thickness towards an orifice configured to house an eye of the user in order to improve the breathability of the eye mask. The face-contacting structure may further be perforated to increase the breathability of the eye mask.

[00170] In other forms of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is constructed from a perforated, light blocking fabric material or composite material. The face-contacting structure may be made breathable, so as to provide comfort to the user. The face-contacting structure may be formed from a material selected from perforated textile, breathable foam and / or fiber. Fabrics that are naturally thick and dense may also be used, such as velvet, heavy cotton, or woven jacquard. These fabrics have a tighter weave or a heavier weight, which helps to minimise the amount of light that can penetrate the material. Alternatively, a fabric composite material may be used. The composite material may be a laminated material.

[00171] In some forms of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is formed from an elastic fabric material. For example, polyester, cotton, spandex, or nylon may be used, which may be further laminated with another fabric to increase it light blocking property.

[00172] In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is constructed from a composite material. The composite material may comprise an external fabric (or fabric composite) layer surrounding an inner foam. The fabric layer may be thermoformed with the foam. For example, the fabric may be laminated to one or all sides of foam and placed in a 2-piece mold. Heat and pressure are then applied, which permanently molds the laminate into a semi-rigid product. The foam may be a memory foam, high density foam, low density foam, or a combination thereof. The foam may be selected from silicone, polyester, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyurethane, nylon, thermoplastic elastomer, polycarbonate-acrylonitrile butadiene sytene (PC-ABS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), latex, or a combination thereof. For example, memory foam may be used, which comprises polyurethane with chemicals that increase its viscosity and density. It is often referred to as "viscoelastic" polyurethane foam, or low-resilience polyurethane foam (LRPu).

[00173] The foam may have a cell structure that reacts to body heat and weight, helping relieve pressure points, preventing pressure sores, and the like. The density and layer thickness of the foam may provide a different feel to the user. A high-density foam may have better compression ratings over the life of the eye mask. A lower-density one will generally have slightly shorter life due to the compression that takes place after repeated use. Cell structures can vary from very open to almost closed cell. The open cell foam structure includes a plurality of interconnected cells, wherein the windows between the adjacent cells are broken and / or removed. In contrast, a closed cell foam has substantially no interconnected cells and the windows between the adjacent cells are substantially intact. The tighter the cell structure, the less airflow through the foam. Breathable foam will have a more open cell structure, allowing higher airflow, better recovery, and lower odour retention.

[00174] In one form of the present technology, the foam comprises an open cellular structure. The cellular structure may be about 10 cells to about 40 cells per inch, about 15 cells to about 40 cells per inch, about 20 cells to about 40 cells per inch, about 25 cells to about 40 cells per inch, or about 30 cells to about 40 cells per inch.

[00175] In one form of the present technology, the foam is characterised by a hardness of about 35 pounds-force to about 100 pounds-force, about 35 pounds-force to about 90 pounds-force, about 35 pounds-force to about 80 pounds-force, about 35 pounds-force to about 70 pounds-force, about 35 pounds-force to about 60 pounds-force, or about 35 pounds-force to about 50 pounds-force.

[00176] In one form of the present technology, the foam is characterised by a density of about 1.2 pounds per cubic foot to about 2.0 pounds per cubic foot, about 1.2 pounds per cubic foot to about 1.8 pounds per cubic foot, or about 1.2 pounds per cubic foot to about 1.6 pounds per cubic foot.

[00177] In one form of the present technology, the composite material comprises at least one air pocket. The air pocket may be between the external fabric and the inner foam. This may be formed by, for example, laminating a side of the foam to the fabric and providing an excess of fabric to obtain a loose fit around the foam when thermoforming. It was found that the air pocket provides flexibility during use, in that the eye mask is able to further conform to an individual's facial contours without excessive pressure. The air pocket also increases the surface area of contact of the external fabric with the user's face, thus providing better light blocking and stability during use.

[00178] In one form of the present technology, the composite material is characterised by a cross-sectional area, wherein the air pocket is about 1% to about 30%. In other forms of the present technology, the cross-sectional area of the air pocket relative to the composite material is about 5% to about 30%, about 10% to about 30%, about 12% to about 30%, about 14% to about 30%, or about 15% to about 30%. 5.4 POCKET OR RECESS FOR HOUSING FUNCTIONAL MODULE

[00179] As mentioned above, the eye mask may comprise one or more pockets or recesses. The pocket or recess may be sized to house a functional module. The pocket or recess may substantially traverse at least between the left and right supraorbital foramen of a user's head in use. The functional module may comprise components such as a sensor component, sensory intervention component, a cooling component, a flip component, a noise reduction component, an imaging component, a massage component, a comfort component or a combination thereof.

[00180] In some forms, the pocket or recess may house electronics, such as a sensor component, sensory intervention component (such as using light, haptic, audio), a cooling / warming (thermal) component, a noise reduction component, electro-neural stimulation (massaging) component, or a combination thereof. Preferably, the pocket or recess may house electronics, such as an EEG sensor, a PPG sensor, a cooling unit and a battery.

[00181] The pocket or recess may be associated with the eye component, or the positioning and stabilising structure. The pocket or recess may be positioned on any portion of the eye mask as long as the components are suitably enabled to perform their function. For example, the pocket or recess may be positioned adjacent to the user's ears for housing a noise reduction component, or positioned adjacent to a forehead region of the user for housing a cooling component.

[00182] In some forms, the pocket comprises at least one window for exposing a portion of the electronic module. The portion may be an electrode of an electronic module. The electrode may be for contacting the user's skin in order to pick up a bioelectric signal from the user. The portion may be an outlet of a cooling module, for providing cooling means to the covered eyes of the user. Accordingly, the window may be appropriately sized.

[00183] In some forms, the pocket comprises at least one electrode on a user facing side of the eye mask. The electrode may traverse a cross section of the pocket, in order to provide electrical contact between an electronic module and the user's skin.

[00184] In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure comprises a recess formed within the surface of the face-contacting structure. The recess may be positioned at a forehead or frontal region of the user when in use. The recess may be sized to extend substantially between orbital regions of the user. The recess may be dimensioned to substantially traverse at least between the left and right supraorbital foramen of a user's head in use. The recess may be elongated. The recess may be configured to house a functional module. As discussed herein, the functional module may be an electronic module for sensing and / or sensory interventions, a cooling module, a massage module, a comfort module or a combination thereof. The face-contacting structure comprising the recess allows for the modularization of the eye mask, in that the user may choose the desired functionality based on their needs. This also allows the functional module to be removed so as to clean the eye mask.

[00185] In one form of the present technology, the recess comprises a connector for engaging with a complementary connector on the functional module. For example, the connector and complementary connector may be a hook-and-loop fastener such as Velcro, a snap fit joint, snap fastener such as press stud button, magnetic catch, and / or groove and complementary protrusion.

[00186] In some forms, the connector is in the form of a magnetic connector incorporated within the base and / or sides of the recess. The magnetic connector may be one or more discrete magnetic clasps, buttons or magnetic shapes, with either the positive or negatively charged component of the magnetic connector embedded within or connected to the recess or a recess surround, and the complementary positively or negatively charged component embedded or connected to the functional module. The number of magnetic connectors required may alter depending on the weight of the functional module and the strength of individual magnets. In some forms the magnetic connectors may be spaced along the width of the recess and correspondingly, across the width of the function module.

[00187] In other forms, the magnetic connection may be formed as a scaffold or cage incorporated with the recess and face-contacting structure and / or eye component, the scaffold or cage providing both magnetic connection to the functional module, and structural support to the eye mask or components thereof.

[00188] In some forms the magnetic scaffold or cage extends along at least a portion of the length of the base of the recess and at least partially within or on one or more of the perimeter walls of the recess.

[00189] In some forms, the pocket is formed from substantially the same material as the eye component and / or the positioning and stabilising structure of the eye mask. A slit may be provided in a portion of the eye component and / or the positioning and stabilising structure of the eye mask to form the pocket. In some forms, the pocket further comprises a material in order to reinforce the pocket. For example, the material may be a polymer sheet or foam. The polymer may flexible but tough. The material may be a thicker fabric.

[00190] In some forms, the pocket or recess comprises engagement means for releasably engaging with the functional module. The engagement means may be a friction fit with an external surface of the functional module, or may be a snap fit, such as an annular

[00191] snap fit or cantilever snap fit, with a corresponding member on the functional module. In some embodiments, a non-mechanical coupling, such as magnetic coupling, may be used to retain the functional module in the pocket or recess.

[00192] In some forms, the recess may be characterised by a depth or distance from a base portion of the recess to a user-facing surface of the surrounding face-contacting structure, or user-facing surface of a perimeter wall of about 0.5 cm to about 5 cm, about 0.5 cm to about 4 cm, about 0.5 cm to about 3 cm, about 0.5 cm to about 2 cm, about 0.75cm to about 2 cm, about 1 cm to about 2cm. The depth of the recess varies across the width or length of the recess to accommodate different shaped functional modules and / or to facilitate connection between components.

[00193] In some forms, the depth of the recess is greater near the centre of the recess compared to the depth at the lateral edges of the recess.

[00194] In some regions of the recess, the depth will be about 1mm to about 20mm, about 2mm to about 20mm, about 3mm to about 20mm, about 4mm to about 20mm, about 5mm to about 20mm, about 6mm to about 20mm, about 7mm to about 20mm, about 8mm to about 20mm or about 9mm to about 20mm.

[00195] In some forms, increasing the depth of the recess results in reducing the thickness of the eye component and / or face-contacting structure that the recess is formed within, and increased thickness of the eye component and / or face-contacting when the recess is shallow. In some forms the combined thickness of the eye component and face-contacting structure between the base of the recess (or posterior surface of the face-contacting structure) and the anterior surface of the eye component is in the range of 3mm - 50mm. In some forms, the thickness extends from 3mm - 10mm near the centre of the recess to 10mm - 30mm closer to the lateral sides of the eye mask.

[00196] Effectively thermoforming the thinner regions of the eye mask (for example where the combined thickness of the eye component and face-contacting structure is less than 10mm) provides a particular challenge to ensure the mask has the required strength, while retaining flexibility. By using three layers of material in the thermoforming process as discussed further below, and optionally by the inclusion of a structural webbing or magnetic or non-magnetic cage or scaffold as discussed above.

[00197] The ability to alter the recess depth without compromising the structural integrity of the eye mask allows for the functional module to be adapted to a range of different shapes that may be required to incorporate various electronic or sensor components, and the eye mask to be correspondingly shaped to effectively receive the module. 5.5 FUNCTIONAL MODULE

[00198] The components as described above may be housed individually in the eye mask, or alternatively may be housed as a single entity in a functional module.

[00199] In some forms of the present technology, a functional module is provided. The functional module may substantially traverse at least between the left and right supraorbital foramen of a user's head in use. As mentioned above, functional components such as a sensor component, a cooling component, an imaging component, a pivot component, a massage component, or a combination thereof may be housed within the functional module. In particular, the functional module may house a sensor component, a noise reduction component, a pivot component, a cooling component, an imaging component, a massage component, a visual component, an audio component, a charging component, a power supply, or a combination thereof. For example, the sensor component may be selected from one or more of the following: a electroencephalography (EEG) sensor, a photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor, electromyography (EMG) sensor, electrooculography (EOG) sensor, a pulse oximeter (SpO2) sensor, respiratory rate (RR) sensor, heart rate (HR) sensor, and a heart rate variability (HRV) sensor.

[00200] The functional module may be removably attached to or housed within the pocket or recess of the eye mask. This provides convenience to the user, as the eye mask may be washed without damaging the electrical components. The functional module may be removed to recharge the battery component. As the components are housed within a casing formed by the functional module, less interference with ambient environment may provide a better sensing and / or readout. The functional module, when provided as a single entity and / or made difficult to dismantle, also discourages the user from dismantling it, thus prolonging its usable life.

[00201] In some forms, the functional module is configured to contour a forehead region of the user in use. The functional module may thus be formed such that it elongated and may be curved such that it is adjacent to and / or in contact with a forehead region of the user in use. In other forms, the functional module has a crescent shape or a banana shape. In other forms, the functional module has a tapered shape towards its ends. In other forms, the functional module is arcuated. In some forms, the functional module is sized to substantially traverse the frontal bone of the user in use. In some forms, the functional module is sized to substantially traverse at least between the left and right supraorbital foramen of the user in use. In some forms, the functional module is flexible so as to conform to the user's head in use.

[00202] In other forms, the functional module comprises a first end portion, a second end portion and a middle portion. The middle portion is sandwiched between the first end portion and the second end portion. The functional module may comprise a convex side and a concave side. The end portions may have a first width. The middle portion may have a second width. The width is the perpendicular distance (relative to a length of the functional module), traversing the convex or concave side from a top surface to a bottom surface of the functional module when in use (and relative to gravity). The width may be parallel to a sagittal plane of the user. In some forms, the end portions and middle portion may have a substantially similar width. Alternatively, the width of the middle portion may be wider than the end portions, or the width of the end portions may be wider than the middle portion.

[00203] In some forms, the functional module comprises end portions with a rounded edge. It was found that this helps to distribute the pressure felt be the user when in use.

[00204] In some forms, the functional module comprises a convex (external facing) or first side and a concave (or user facing) or second side. The convex surface may comprise a backing formed from flexible material. The backing may be curved, crescent shaped, or arcuated. The material may be characterised by a hardness. Hardness refers to how much weight a material can support without deforming or breaking. The material may be characterised by a flexibility. Flexibility refers to how a material may be bent out of shape or compressed without breaking, and returned to their original shape. The hard backing acts to protect the components within the functional module. The material may be flexible so as to conform to an anthropological head shape of the user.

[00205] In some forms, the functional module comprises ridges, ribs, curves, channels or bulges on the convex side of the module.

[00206] In some forms, the material is characterised by a hardness. The hardness may be characterised by a Vickers, Brinell, Rockwell, Mohs, Knoop and / or Shore scale. For instance, the material may have a Shore hardness of about 60 to about 90. In other forms, the Shore hardness is about 65 to about 90, about 70 to about 90, about 75 to about 90, about 80 to about 90, or about 85 to about 90. For example, a material interfacing with user may have a Shore A hardness of about 5 to about 80; or preferably about 20 to about 40.

[00207] In some forms, the material is characterised by a Young's modulus. For instance, the material may have a Young's modulus of about 0.0001 GPa to about 5 GPa. In other forms, the Young's modulus is about 0.0001 GPa to about 4.5 GPa, about 0.0001 GPa to about 4 GPa, about 0.0001 GPa to about 3.5 GPa, about 0.0001 GPa to about 3 GPa, about 0.0001 GPa to about 2.5 GPa, about 0.0001 GPa to about 2 GPa, about 0.001 GPa to about 2 GPa, about 0.01 GPa to about 2 GPa, or about 0.1 GPa to about 2 GPa. For example, the textile or fabric used for the eye mask may have a Young's modulus of about 0.5 GPa to about 5GPa. Silicone may have a Young's modulus of about 0.0005 GPa to about 0.1 GPa.

[00208] In some forms, the material is characterised by flexural strength of about 30 MPa to about 300 MPa. In other forms the flexural strength is about 30 MPa to about 300 MPa, about 50 MPa to about 300 MPa, about 70 MPa to about 300 MPa, about 100 MPa to about 300 MPa, about 120 MPa to about 300 MPa, about 140 MPa to about 300 MPa, about 160 MPa to about 300 MPa, about 180 MPa to about 300 MPa, or about 200 MPa to about 300 MPa.

[00209] In some forms, the convex side further comprises a fabric. The fabric may be adjacent to the backing. The fabric may be adjacent to an external facing side of the backing. The fabric provides a soft touch feel and comfort to the user. For example, elastomeric nonwoven fabric, knitted fabric, woven fabric, spacer fabric, or a combination thereof may be used. Such materials have been described above.

[00210] In some forms, the concave side comprises a user-contacting layer. The user- contacting layer may be formed from a fabric, a fabric composite, or silicone cushion. These materials may provide a soft touch feel and comfort to the user in use. For example, elastomeric nonwoven fabric, knitted fabric, woven fabric, spacer fabric, or a combination thereof may be used.

[00211] In some forms, the fabric at the convex side and the user-contacting layer are contiguous or formed from a single material.

[00212] In some forms, the concave side comprises at least one electrode. In some forms, the user-contacting layer comprises at least one conductive material for use as an electrode. The electrode may be adhered to an external facing side of the user-contacting layer such that it may be in contact with the user's head when in use. Alternatively, the electrode may be printed on the user-contacting layer.

[00213] The conductive material may be conductive silicone or soft polymer. Such material may be compounded with conductive material such as carbon. Conductive silicone may be in molded with the silicone cushion, and forms an external surface of the concave side. In this regard, the conductive silicone is exposed such that it may contact the user's head in use. In use, the conductive silicone contacts with the user's head such that biological signals may be received and transmitted to the components, and / or output from the components may be transmitted to the user. Accordingly, the conductive silicone or soft polymer acts as a dry electrode when electrically connected to a component.

[00214] In some forms, the conductive material is formed as a strip. The strip may be positioned perpendicularly to a length of the concave side. In some forms, the conductive material is characterised by a length which is substantially similar to the width of the concave side. The conductive material may be positioned at regular intervals along the length of concave side of the functional module. A component, for example a sensor, may be positioned between and electrically connected to the two conductive materials. This helps in ensuring reliability in the receiving and transmitting of data and / or signal.

[00215] In some forms, the conductive material is characterised by a width. In some forms, the width of the conductive material at a middle portion of the functional module is relatively smaller than the width of the conductive material at an end portion. It was found that having a relative larger width for the conductive material at the ends allows for better contact with the user's head, and hence better receipt and transmission of signals. It was found that it provide a more reliable signal acquisition from the targeted regions on the head given the anthropological variations.

[00216] In some forms, the width of the conductive material when adjacent to an end portion relative to the width of the conductive material when adjacent to a middle portion is about 4:1 to about 1.1:1. In other forms, the ratio is about 3:1 to about 1.1:1, about 2:1 to about 1.1:1, about 1.9:1 to about 1.1:1, about 1.8:1 to about 1.1:1, about 1.7:1 to about 1.1:1, about 1.6:1 to about 1.1:1, about 1.5:1 to about 1.1:1, about 1.4:1 to about 1.1:1, or about 1.3:1 to about 1.1:1.

[00217] In some forms, the conductive material comprises an electrical contact, the electrical contact extending inwardly towards a cavity of the functional module. The electrical contact may penetrate the user-contacting layer in order to make contact with a component housed within the functional module. In other forms, the electrical contact extending over top and / or bottom side of the functional module and towards the convex side. In this way, the electrical contact skirts around the user-contacting layer in order to make contact with a component housed within the functional module. When multiple electrical contacts are present, they may be aligned parallel to each other so as to facilitate connection with the components. As the electrical contact is electrically connected to the conductive material, by connecting the electrical contact to the component, the component is electrically connected to the conductive material, and may thus receive and / or transmit signals from / to the user. For example, the electrical contact may be inserted into a mating port in a component for electrical connection.

[00218] In some forms, the functional module comprises a foam. The foam may be adjacent to the user-contacting layer at the concave side and housed within a cavity of the functional module. The foam may be adjacent to an internal facing side of the user-contacting layer. The foam provides additional support and comfort to the user when in use.

[00219] In some forms, the functional module comprises a cavity for housing the components. The cavity may comprise at least one component-retaining structure for engaging a component. The component may be detachable from the component-retaining structure, such that a particular component may be switched out for another component with different functionality, or to replace a component that have ceased to function or are at the end of its lifecycle. For example, the component (and / or the circuitry to which it is electrically coupled, if applicable) may be releasably attach to the component-retaining structure. To this end, an external surface of a component may form a friction fit with an internal surface of a wall of a component-retaining structure, or may form a snap fit, such as an annular snap fit or cantilever snap fit, with the wall or other internal or external part of the component-retaining structure, or may form a spring release fit. In some embodiments, a non-mechanical coupling, such as magnetic coupling, may be used to retain the component in respective retaining structure.

[00220] In some forms, the component is fixedly attached to the component-retaining structure. For example, the component may be attached within to the component-retaining structure via co-molding, adhesive, or a combination thereof.

[00221] In some forms, the functional module comprises a support in its cavity thereof. The support provides reinforcement and protection to the components.

[00222] In some forms, the functional module comprises a silicone or soft polymer material within its cavity. The soft material absorbs a shock from an impact (for example when dropped), thereby providing some protection to the components.

[00223] In some forms, the user-contacting layer comprises a window for exposing a portion of the component. The portion may be an electrode of a sensor component. The electrode may be for contacting the user's skin in order to pick up a bioelectric signal from the user. The portion may be an outlet of a cooling component, for providing cooling means to the covered eyes of the user. Accordingly, the window may be appropriately sized.

[00224] In some forms, the functional module comprises a connector for connecting with a complementary connector in a recess of the eye mask. The connector and complementary connector thus mates with each other. The connector and complementary connector may be a friction fit, hook-and-loop fastener, a snap fit joint, snap fastener, magnetic catch, groove and complementary protrusion, spring release engagement, or a combination thereof. The connector may be positioned at a middle portion or at either or both end portions of the functional module. The connector ensures that the functional module is retained in position during use.

[00225] In some forms, the functional module comprises a magnetic charging port. The magnetic charging port may be configured to engage with a magnetic cover.

[00226] In some forms, the functional module comprises one or more ports such as communication or power connection ports, such as but not limited to USB ports, charging ports. In some forms the ports may be located on the concave face or one or more side faces of the functional module to allow ease of connection when the eye mask and functional module is not in use on the user’s face. The positioning of a charging port may be deliberately selected to ensure the eye mask cannot be worn while the functional module battery is being charged, or is otherwise connected to an external communication or power source. This reduces the risk of overheating of the product that may occur if the user wears the product on charge while sleeping.

[00227] In some forms, the functional module is characterised by a weight about 40 g to about 200g. In other forms, the weight is about 40 g to about 180g, about 40 g to about 160g, about 40 g to about 150g, about 40 g to about 140g, about 40 g to about 130g, about 40 g to about 120g, about 40 g to about 110g, about 40 g to about 100g, about 40 g to about 90g, or about 40 g to about 80g.

[00228] In one form of the present technology, the eye mask further comprises a functional module in the form of an insert. The insert is sized to fit into the recess and have the function of improving comfort, stability or light blocking ability of the eye mask. The insert may be formed from a material similar to the face-contacting structure. Accordingly, the insert may also comprise a complementary connector for mating with the connector in / on or adjacent to the recess.

[00229] In contrast to the other functional modules disclosed herein, the insert may not contain any additional functional components within its body. In other words, the insert may be a "blank" component, which may be used to fill the recess. The insert may also be sized to fit into the pocket of the eye covering component.

[00230] In one form of the present technology, the insert comprises a surface formed from a gripping or grippy material. The surface may be a user-facing surface. The gripping material increases friction between the material and the user's face so as to improve the stability of the eye mask when worn. The friction makes the eye mask more resistant to movement relative to the user’s head. This is in contrast to tacky materials, which are those that have a slightly sticky feel to them, but they do not leave any residue when removed. One way to impart stickiness to the surface is to polish regions of the surface to provide the required grip while avoiding excessive tackiness. [00231 ] The gripping material may cover at least a portion of the user-facing surface, or may cover the whole user-facing surface. Having the gripping material cover only portions of the user-facing surface reduces a “sticky” feeling by the user which might cause some discomfort. In particular, the gripping material may be formed as at least one patch or at least one strip traversing across the user-facing surface. Alternatively, an array of various shapes such as circles, dots, lines, wavy lines, triangles, chevrons may be used. Alternatively, a pattern such as concentric circles or squares may be used.

[00232] Examples of gripping material includes, but is not limited to, silicone, PVC foam and / or vulcanised rubber. Fabrics made with nanofibres so as to increase its frictional force when in contact with another surface may also be used as a gripping material. The fabric with gripping material or gripping material may be textured with dots, lines and / or other patterns. For example, the gripping material may be micro-patterned with an array of dots or squares.

[00233] The gripping material may be characterized by a static friction or sliding friction. The gripping material may be characterized by a friction coefficient of about 0.1 p to about 0.9 p. 5.6 POSITIONING AND STABILISING STRUCTURE

[00234] The eye mask may comprise a positioning and stabilizing structure for retaining the eye mask on the user’s head. The positioning and stabilising structure may be removable from the eye mask. The positioning and stabilizing structure may be responsible for providing forces to counter gravitational forces of the eye component and / or face-contacting structure. In the past such structures have comprised rigid structures that are typically applied to the head under tension to maintain the eye mask in its operational position. Such systems have been prone to exert a clamping pressure on the user’s face which can result in user discomfort at localised stress points. Also, previous eye masks may be difficult to adjust to allow wide application to different head sizes. Further, known eye masks may be heavy and difficult to clean, which further limits the comfort and useability.

[00235] The face-contacting structure of the eye mask of the present technology may be held in a contact position in use by the positioning and stabilising structure.

[00236] In one form the positioning and stabilising structure provides a retention force at least sufficient to hold the eye mask in contact with the user's face.

[00237] In one form the positioning and stabilising structure provides a retention force to overcome the effect of the gravitational force on the eye mask.

[00238] In one form the positioning and stabilising structure provides a retention force as a safety margin to overcome the potential effect of disrupting forces on the eye mask, such as from accidental interference with the eye mask.

[00239] In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilising structure is provided that is configured in a manner consistent with being worn by a user while sleeping. In one example the positioning and stabilising structure has a low profile, or low cross-sectional thickness, to reduce the perceived or actual bulk of the apparatus. In one example, the positioning and stabilising structure comprises at least one strap having a rectangular cross-section. In one example the positioning and stabilising structure comprises at least one flat strap.

[00240] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure is configured so as not to be too large and bulky to prevent the user from lying in a supine sleeping position with a back region of the user’s head on a pillow.

[00241] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure is configured so as not to be too large and bulky to prevent the user from lying in a side sleeping position with a side region of the user’s head on a pillow.

[00242] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure has a width substantially similar to the eye component. In other forms of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure has a width smaller than a width of the eye component.

[00243] For example, the positioning and stabilising structure may have a width of about 10 mm to about 100 mm, about 10 mm to about 90 mm, about 10 mm to about 80 mm, about 10 mm to about 70 mm, about 10 mm to about 60 mm, about 10 mm to about 50 mm, or about 10 mm to about 40 mm. The positioning and stabilising structure may have a thickness of about 1 mm to about 100 mm.

[00244] For example, the positioning and stabilising structure may have a length of about 100 mm to about 800 mm, about 100 mm to about 750 mm, about 100 mm to about 700 mm, about 100 mm to about 650 mm, about 100 mm to about 600 mm, about 100 mm to about 550 mm, about 100 mm to about 500 mm, about 100 mm to about 450 mm, or about 100 mm to about 400 mm.

[00245] The positioning and stabilising structure is attached to the eye component, and provides a resilient force such that the face-contacting structure is pressured against the user's face. For example, the positioning and stabilising structure may be attached to opposed ends of the eye component. Alternatively, the positioning and stabilising structure may form a loop or band circumferentially positionable on a user's head.

[00246] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure is formed as a flexible headband circumferentially positionable on a user's head. The eye component may be attached to at least a portion of the band along its length, or at least to a face facing portion of the band. Alternatively, the eye component may be circumferentially attached to the band along its whole length or is a portion of the circumferential band. In this regard, the positioning and stabilising structure is contiguous with the eye component such that the eye mask may be worn as a headband on a user's head when not in use.

[00247] The positioning and stabilising structure may overlay at least an otobasion superior region of the user's head in use. The positioning and stabilising structure may be configured to overlay an otobasion superior region and otobasion inferior region of the user's head in use. In this regard, the ears of the user may be covered. This may reduce noise to the user.

[00248] In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilising structure comprises a strap. The eye component may be attached to the positioning and stabilising structure at its ends thereof. The strap may be constructed from a laminate of a fabric user-contacting layer, a foam inner layer and a fabric outer layer. In one form, the foam is porous to allow moisture, (e.g., sweat), to pass through the strap. Alternatively, or in addition, the strap may comprise fiberfill (for example, polyester fiberfill), non-woven padding, foam padding, high density upholstery foam, compressed polyester, medium density polyurethane antimicrobial foam, high density polyurethane foam, dry fast open cell foam, or a combination thereof. Consequently, the strap is not too large and bulky to prevent the user from lying in the side sleeping position. In addition, the strap is extensible and soft.

[00249] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure comprises a strap that is extensible, e.g. resiliently extensible. For example the strap may be configured in use to be in tension. The positioning and stabilising structure may comprise adjustable means for extending the strap. In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure comprises a left strap, a right strap and a connector. The connector may be a buckle.

[00250] In one form of the present technology, one or more rigidizers may be provided to selectively alter the rigidity of the positioning and stabilising structure. These may be attached to an external surface of the fabric, or inserted within the fabric layers. For example, the rigidizer may be laminated to or embedded between fabric layers. Thermoset yarns may be used to provide selective rigidification. The textile may also be rigidized at other parts of the positioning and stabilising structure, such as alongside sections that will contact the user’s face in use, for example using a coating, a laminate, a rigidized thread sewn into the textile, or any similar means.

[00251] The rigidizers may be semi-rigid. In other words, the rigidizers may be more rigid than the textile material used to form the positioning and stabilising structure, but not completely rigid. In this way, they are capable of providing structure to the positioning and stabilising structure, but are flexible so that they are capable of being bent. A user and / or medical professional may adjust or bend the rigidizers in order to provide tailored support for an individual user. The rigidizers also may begin semi-rigid (in other words, the rigidizers may be semi-rigid at the beginning or initially), and may become rigid after a period of time. For example, a medical professional may adjust the shape of the rigidizers so that the positioning and stabilising structure is suited for an individual user’s face. Then the rigidizers may be treated (e.g., heat treated) so that they are set in their shape. In other words, the rigidity of the rigidizers is capable of changing. Consequently, the rigidity also changes and may be selectively increased to provide tailored support for the individual user (or user).

[00252] In some forms of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure is bifurcated into a first section and a second section. The positioning and stabilising structure may be bifurcated at opposed ends thereof, or at a position adjacent to a temporal region of a user's head in use. The first and second bifurcated sections may jointly cradle a crown of the user's head in use. The first section may be movable relative to the second section. Alternatively, the first section and the second section is bifurcated at a fixed angle. The angle may be about 60° to about 120°.

[00253] When the positioning and stabilising structure is formed as a headband, the positioning and stabilising structure may be fabric material or composite material. The positioning and stabilising structure may be made breathable, so as to provide comfort to the user.

[00254] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure is configured to loop over the user's ears. The positioning and stabilising structure may have a curved morphology, such that it arcs over the otobasion superior region of the user's head and a lower occipital region. The positioning and stabilising structure may comprise a rigidiser to maintain the arc.

[00255] The positioning and stabilising structure may be formed from a material selected from perforated textile, breathable foam and / or fiber. Alternatively, a fabric composite material may be used. The composite material may be a laminated material.

[00256] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure is an elastic fabric material. For example, polyester, cotton, spandex, or nylon may be used, which may be further laminated with another fabric. 5.7 MATERIALS

[00257] Various materials may be used to provide a soft touch feel and comfort to the user. For example, elastomeric nonwoven may provide soft, airtight surface which may be incorporated as a material for forming the positioning and stabilising structure. The elastomeric nonwoven may further be used as a cushion material on the positioning and stabilising structure. Further, the elastomeric nonwoven may be bonded to a variety of materials which is commonly used for the eye mask. Elastomeric nonwoven provides better elastic recovery to the positioning and stabilising structure, thus providing lower deformation and longer usage. The nonwoven material is soft and flexible. The material is soft in the sense that it may give way under pressure. The material is flexible in the sense that it is capable of being flexed or bent without breaking. The nonwoven material may be formed as a layer on a user-facing side, which is an outside surface which may be in contact with the user's skin when in use. The nonwoven material may be used as is without any additional support provided by adding other more resilient materials, or may be configured to provide sufficient structural support for it to be used alone. Alternatively, the nonwoven material may be bonded to a flexible and / or resilient material for further structural support.

[00258] Elastomeric nonwoven refers to an elastomer which is formed as a fabric-like material. An elastomer is a polymer that displays rubber-like elasticity. It has both viscosity and elasticity properties, weak intermolecular forces and low Young's modulus. A nonwoven fabric is a fabric-like material made from staple fiber (short) and long fibers (continuous long), bonded together by entangling fibers via chemical, mechanical or solvent treatment. Nonwoven fabric is not woven nor knitted.

[00259] The elastomeric polymer comprises hard segments and soft segments. The hard segments provide strength and rigidity while the soft segments provide elasticity but may result in a tackiness of the fabric. A balance of hard and soft segments is required to maximise the desirable properties of both the hard and soft segments.

[00260] The elastomeric nonwoven may be melt-blown. Melt-blown nonwovens are produced by extruding melted polymer fibers through a spin net or die consisting of up to 40 holes per inch to form long thin fibers which are stretched and cooled by passing hot air over the fibers as they fall from the die. The resultant web is collected and formed as a fabric-like material. The fibers from a melt-blown process may be made extremely fine. The melt-blown fibers may also be combined with other types of elastomeric nonwoven such as staple, spunbond and / or flashspun to form a fabric-like material with different properties.

[00261] In one form of the present technology, the elastomeric non wo ven layer is formed from a thermoplastic elastomer. In one form of the present technology, the elastomeric nonwoven layer is selected from polyolefin based elastomer, co-polyester elastomer, thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer, styrenic block copolymer, or a combination thereof. The elastomeric nonwoven layer may have hard:soft segment ratio of 1:0.1 to about 1:10.

[00262] In one form of the present technology, the elastomeric nonwoven is selected from polyether block amide (Pebax), thermoplastic elastomer ether ester (Hytrel), thermoplastic polyurethane (Elastolan), styrenic rubber block co-polymer (Kraton), or a combination thereof. In one form of the present technology, the elastomeric nonwoven is selected from polyether block amide (Pebax), thermoplastic elastomer ether ester (Hytrel), or a combination thereof. For example, Pebax comprises nylon 11 as the hard segment while Hytrel comprises polybutylene terephthalate as the hard segment.

[00263] In one form of the present technology, the nonwoven is calendered. Calendering of fabric is a finishing process used to smooth, coat, or thin a material. The fabric is passed between rollers at high temperature and pressures. This process flattens circular fibers on the surface and decrease inter-fiber distance and pore size of the fabric. This polishes the surface of the fabric and makes the fabric smoother and more lustrous.

[00264] In one form of the present technology, the nonwoven is bonded to the flexible and / or resilient material. The flexible and / or resilient material may be a foam. The flexible and / or resilient material may be selected from silicone, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyurethane, nylon, thermoplastic elastomer, polycarbonate-acrylonitrile butadiene sytene (PC-ABS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or a combination thereof. The strength of the bond may be measured using ASTM SI876-08. In one form of the present technology, the nonwoven is ultrasonically bonded to the flexible material. Alternatively, the nonwoven may be bonded to the flexible material via adhesive, lamination, thermal sealing, mechanical bonding, chemical bonding and / or welding.

[00265] Other types of fabric may also be used. For example, a knit fabric may be used, such as a cotton knit. A woven fabric may also be used. The difference between woven fabric and knit fabric is the yarn that they are composed of. Knit fabric is made of a single yarn, looped continuously to provide a braided pattern. Based on the inter looping direction, knitted fabrics may be classified as warp knitted fabric or weft knitted fabric. Knit fabric stretches easily along its width with a slightly less stretch along its length. A woven fabric is composed of multiple yarns wound at right angles to one another such that they create a criss-cross pattern. Woven fabric stretches along its length, but is less stretchable along its width. Thus, in general, knitted fabric are more flexible than woven fabric.

[00266] The knitted fabric or woven fabric may be made from a yarn selected from natural and / or synthetic fibers. Examples of such fibers include, but is not limited to, cotton, wool, enset, jute, viscose, polyester, Nylon and spandex.

[00267] In one form of the present technology, the knitted fabric is a weft knitted fabric. In one form of the present technology, the knitted fabric is a warp knitted fabric.

[00268] The fabrics may be combined using techniques such as lamination, adhesive, thermal sealing, mechanical bonding, chemical bonding and / or welding.

[00269] In one form of the present technology, at least two fabrics are connected together. The fabrics may be continuously joined to each other. In this regard, one fabric transit seamlessly to another. Alternatively, the fabrics may be connected together via a seam, stitch and / or adhesive. This allows different types of fabric to be used to form the body, to achieve a variety of functionalities.

[00270] In one form of the present technology, the eye mask is formed from a spacer fabric. Spacer fabric contains a combination of two independent textile sheets interconnected with spacer yarns (forming a spacer layer) so that the fabric has a 3D appearance. The spacer fabric may comprise two knitted fabrics separated by spacer yarns. Because of the spacer yarns, a defined distance may be established between the textile sheets. The textile sheets may be constructed similarly or differently to achieve a multitude of functionalities. The spacer layer may comprise monofilaments and / or multifilaments. Monofilament refers to a single solid filament. Multifilament refers to a yarn which has multiple filament fibers twisted together. While spacer fabric having monofilaments may be stiffer, can resist high pressure and may allow for directed transport of fluid and heat, spacer fabric having multifilaments allows for more movement and flexibility. Accordingly, a combination of monofilaments and multifilaments may be used. The filaments may be formed from a material selected from polyester, nylon and / or recycled yarn. Other materials include, but is not limited to, cotton, viscose, rayon, acrylic, elastane, blended yarn comprising polyester and cotton / viscose, cotton / acrylic, polyacrylic in different proportions or combinations.

[00271] In one form of the present technology, the spacer fabric is characterised by a thickness of about 2 mm to about 10 mm.

[00272] Other types of fabric may be used, such as flat, warp, large and small-drum circular knitting, spacer mesh, and quilt with filler. Any material use to fabricate fabric may be used. For example, the material may be selected from virgin and / or recycled polyester, polypropylene, polyamide, various spandex or stretch materials, poly(lactic acid), wool, cotton, bamboo, jute, or a combination thereof. In one form of the present technology, the material is an elastic material.

[00273] In addition to fabric materials, other materials such as fabric fiberfill (for example, polyester fiberfill), non-woven padding, foam padding, high density upholstery foam, compressed polyester, medium density polyurethane antimicrobial foam, high density polyurethane foam, dry fast open cell foam, or a combination thereof may also be used to provide support and comfort to the user. 5.8 NOISE REDUCTION COMPONENT

[00274] The eye mask may comprise a noise reduction component. The noise reduction component may be located at a side of the eye component of the eye mask, adjacent to an ear of the user. A pair of noise reduction components may be located at opposed sides of the eye mask, and be configured to fit over the respective ears of the user (e.g., an earphone). In one form of the present technology, part of the noise reduction component may also, or alternatively, fit at least partially inside the ear of a user (e.g., an earbud).

[00275] The pair of noise reduction components may be connected by a strap. The noise reduction components may be positioned at respective ends of the strap. The strap at least partially loops around the head of the user. It will be appreciated that in these embodiments, the noise reduction component may be detachable from the eye mask. For example, the noise reduction component may be attachable and removable via tabs. This facilitates the modular coupling of the noise reduction component to the eye component, allowing the eye mask to be washed while the electronic components within the noise reduction component are removed before washing. Alternatively, the noise reduction component may be integrated with the eye component. For example, the noise reduction component may be formed on the eye component such that it is contiguous with the eye component. The noise reduction component and the eye component may further be formed form a single material or composite material. Alternatively, the noise reduction component may be integrated with the positioning and stabilizing structure. As another example, the eye component may comprise a pair of lobe structures that are integral with, and / or extend from, the eye component to house the noise reduction component. The eye component may comprise inner and / or outer layers of textile material between which the noise reduction component is sandwiched.

[00276] In one form of the present technology, each lobe structure housing the respective noise reduction component may be larger (e.g., wider) than the eye component. This may create a visual differentiation in order to assist the user with donning the eye mask. Additionally, the larger size of the noise reduction component may allow the lobe structure to fit around the user’s ear.

[00277] Each noise reduction component may comprise a laminated structure that comprises at least one sound reflecting layer and at least one sound absorbing layer. At least one sound absorbing layer is closer to the ear of the user (when worn) than the at least one sound reflecting layer.

[00278] In one form of the present technology, at least a portion of the eye component may be constructed from a different material than the noise reduction component. For example, the laminate structure may only be present in the noise reduction component and may not be included in the remained of the eye component. Similarly, the eye component may include an elastic material to assist with stretching to different sized heads. The elastic material may not be present in the noise reduction component.

[00279] In one form of the present technology, the noise reducing material is present in the noise reduction component and the eye component. In this regard, the laminate material extends from one noise reduction component, to the eye component and towards the other noise reduction component as an integral material.

[00280] In one form of the present technology, the noise reduction component has an outer sound-reflecting layer, and an inner sound-absorbing layer. The sound-absorbing layer may be formed from a foam material such as a PE closed cell foam sheet, for example. The sound absorbing layer may be attached to an annular cushion, that may be formed from memory foam in some examples, and that is shaped to substantially encircle the user’s ear (e.g., extend around the helix and the lobule) when the eye mask is worn. [00281 ] The sound-reflecting layer acts to at least partially reflect sound waves from external noise sources. As some sound will in most cases still be transmitted through the sound-reflecting layer, the sound-absorbing layer acts to at least partially absorb sound that is transmitted through the sound-reflecting layer, while also absorbing sound that is reflected from the surface of the user’s ear (e.g., the scapha, the anti-helix, the concha, etc.) following transmission, thus reducing reverberation.

[00282] The sound-absorbing layer is of approximately the same two-dimensional shape as the sound-reflecting layer. In another example, the sound-reflecting layer may extend beyond the sound-absorbing layer to wrap over the user’s ear (e.g., around the user’s helix and the lobule), thus providing greater reflective surface area to further reduce transmission. In these examples, the sound-reflecting layer and the sound-absorbing layer can be laminated to each other.

[00283] Additionally, the sound absorbing layer may be flexible and / or deformable. In some forms, tension in the straps when the user wears the eye mask may cause the sound absorbing layer and / or the sound reflecting layer to deform. This may allow the sound absorbing layer to be positioned at least partially within the ear (e.g., proximate to the concha) while in use. Alternatively, the sound absorbing layer may partially extend into the user’s ear without needing to deform.

[00284] In one form of the present technology, the sound absorbing layer can comprise extensions or flaps configured to engage corresponding with at least the pinna of the ear. As would be made clear from the discussion below, the sound-absorbing layer can further comprise a protrusion that sits at least partially within the ear. The protrusion can be in the form of a center protrusion on a user facing surface of the noise reduction component. The center protrusion is configured such that the ear encircles the center padding. The center protrusion is configured to extend into a cavity formed by the ear (e.g., within the concha). The center protrusion is sized slightly smaller than the ear cavity so as to fit snuggly within the ear.

[00285] The sound absorbing layer can be bonded with an adhesive (such as glue) and / or thermally bonded to the sound reflective layer in a laminating process. The protrusion can be formed by moulding or thermal shaping. Alternatively or in addition, the protrusion may be attached as a separate piece via an adhesive or bonding processes (e.g., thermal, or ultrasonic).

[00286] In one form of the present technology, a noise reduction component does not have an annular cushion. Instead, a cushion that is shaped to fit inside the user’s ear is provided. This provides sound absorption functionality that is additional to that provided by the soundabsorbing layer. The cushion can contact (e.g., directly contact) the sound absorbing layer. For example, the cushion and sound absorbing layer can be stacked relative to each other. The cushion and the sound absorbing layer can frictionally engage each other. In one form of the present technology, the cushion can be removable for washing if required. Alternatively, the cushion and sound-absorbing layer can be laminated to each other (via glue lamination or with thermal bonding) such that it fits inside the user’s ear as a single entity or unitary body.

[00287] In one form of the present technology, the sound absorbing layer may be positioned outside of the user’s ear (e.g., in order to cup the user’s ear). The cushion and sound-absorbing layer can protrude from the sound absorbing layer and extend into a cavity of the ear. The cushion may not need to deform in order to fit within the user’s ear.

[00288] In one form of the present technology, the sound-absorbing layer is bonded thermally or with an adhesive (e.g., glue) to the sound reflective layer in a laminating process.

[00289] In one form of the present technology, the noise reduction component includes the annular cushion. The cushion may have a non-circular cross-section so as to provide a tighter fit of the noise reduction component over the ear (e.g., around the helix and the lobule).

[00290] In one form of the present technology, the sound reflecting layer is formed from one or more of an aluminised PET sheet, TPU Film, a metallised polymer film, and / or a metallised fabric, polypropylene (PP) non-woven material, polyester non-woven material, or a non-woven material comprising natural fibres and / or synthetic fibres or combinations thereof. [00291 ] In one form of the present technology, the sound absorbing layer is constructed from a foam material such as a PE closed cell foam sheet, Fabric-foam-TPU-PU foam laminate, UBL foam laminate, or EVA foam sheet layer. In some forms of the present technology, the sound absorbing layer is a polymer film; a metallised polymer film; a metallised fabric; and / or a nonwoven material. The non-woven material may be a polypropylene (PP) non-woven material, polyester non-woven material, or a non-woven material comprising natural fibres and / or synthetic fibres.

[00292] A non-woven layer may be sandwiched between the sound reflecting layer and the sound absorbing layer. The non-woven layer may comprise one or more different types of nonwoven material to form a multi-layer non-woven material. The one or more different types of non-woven material may include synthetic fibres such as polyester fibres. Various methods may be used to manufacture the non-woven material. For instance, the multi-layered non-woven material may be manufactured by airlaid or spunbond process, or a Spunbond-Meltblown-Spunbond (SMS) process. The non-woven material may comprise fine fibres and / or fibres with high surface area. Advantageously, the non-woven material is capable of effectively reflecting and / or absorbing sound. Fibres with high surface area may include engineered fibres having various cross-sectional geometry, such as trilobal or multilobal. Preferably, the non-woven material may comprise fine fibres which leads to a higher surface area and therefore better sound reflection and sound absorption.

[00293] In one form of the present technology, a fabric layer contacts the user’s ear and / or may extend beyond the noise-reduction component. The fabric layer may be unbroken loop (UBL) fabric. The fabric layer may be designed to have a soft feel to the user’s skin for optimal comfort.

[00294] In one form of the present technology, a cushioning layer forms a rim around a periphery of the noise-reduction component. The rim may be formed from memory foam, for example. The material of the cushioning layer may contact the user’s auriculotemporal sulcus and postauricular sulcus to provide comfort on sensitive portions of the user’s ear.

[00295] The noise reduction component may each be capable of effectively blocking sound having a frequency of 500 Hz or less, and an intensity of 25 dB or higher.

[00296] In one form of the present technology, the noise reduction component comprises a speaker. The speaker may provide white noise and / or music to aid a user's sleep. The speaker may be high fidelity. A noise cancelling component may also be incorporated, and may provide Ai-assisted smart sound blocking or active noise-cancellation electronics while ensuring essential sounds such as a baby's cry can still pass through. The noise-cancellation component may comprise active noise-cancellation electronics. In one form, the noise-cancellation and speaker functions may be decoupled. For example, the noise cancelling component may be always active while the eye mask is worn, but the speaker may be able to be coupled to an external device, such as a baby monitor, to enable sound from the external device to still reach the user. The coupling may be via any suitable known means, such as Bluetooth, WiFi, Zigbee, etc. 5.9 SENSOR COMPONENT

[00297] In one form of the present technology, the eye mask may have one or more sensors and / or actuators provided therein, for measurement of the user’s physiological and sleep data. One or more sensors and one or more actuators may respectively be embedded within the eye mask or functional module, or may be attached to internal and / or external surfaces of the eye mask or functional module. The sensor may be provided as a module attachable to the eye mask.

[00298] Sensors embedded in the eye mask or functional module can help collect sleep -related data and physiological indicators such as vital data; this can be used to determine sleep quality, and may also be used to control one or more integrated actuators or external devices to assist in improving sleep quality. The physiological and sleep data may be communicated (e.g., via wireless communication) to external computing devices such as a smartphone of the user, and / or a monitoring server that is operated by or accessible to a clinician or other healthcare provider.

[00299] The sensor module may comprise a plurality of electronic modules (actuators and / or sensors). A processor module may also be integrated in the eye mask. The processor module may have an integrated transceiver for transmitting data to, and receiving data from, external computing devices. An electrical energy storage device such as a battery and a battery charging circuit may also be included to power the various electronic components (sensors / actuators and processor module) of the and / or functional module. In some forms of the present technology, other electrical energy storage devices such as supercapacitors may be used.

[00300] The sensors and associated electronics may be integrated at least partly between fabric layers of the positioning and stabilising structure or eye component. For example, various sensor / actuator and / or associated circuitry, the processor module, and the battery module may lie between an inner, skin-contacting, fabric layer, and an outer fabric layer. Alternatively, the eye component or positioning and stabilising structure may comprise a pocket for housing the sensor module.

[00301] The sensor and / or actuator modules integrated in the eye mask and / or functional module may be in electrical communication with processor and battery via a bus, for example. The bus may be provided between two insulating layers that provide electrical insulation and that also prevent moisture ingress, for example from perspiration absorbed by inner fabric layer. The insulating layers may be non-conductive polymer or elastomer films, for example, though it will be appreciated that other electrically insulating materials may also be used.

[00302] In one form of the present technology, a thermally insulating layer may be provided between at least some of the electronic components of the positioning and stabilising structure, noting that those components will tend to generate heat during use. Accordingly, a thermally insulating layer helps to improve user comfort. For example, layer that is closest to the usercontacting inner layer may be thermally insulating as well as electrically insulating, or an additional thermally insulating layer may be interposed between electrically insulating layer and inner layer. In some examples, inner layer may itself be thermally insulating.

[00303] In one form of the present technology, the sensor and / or actuator components and their associated circuitry, and other components including the processor and battery, may be received within retaining structures that are affixed to insulating layer and / or inner fabric layer. Each retaining structure is in electrical communication with a bus, for example, and may contain electrical contacts to electrically connect circuitry of (or associated with) the sensor components to the bus, and thus also to the battery and processor. In some examples, communication between components and the bus may be via conductive ink traces, and / or conductive threads that are woven into or otherwise integrated with fabric layers. In some embodiments, electrical contacts and / or circuit traces may be contained only in an outer layer, so as not to be affected by perspiration from the user.

[00304] In one form of the present technology, the sensor component comprises a sensorretaining structure. Components may be detachable from the sensor-retaining structure, such that particular modules may be switched out for other components with different functionality, or to replace components that have ceased to function or are at the end of their lifecycle. For example, the components (and / or the circuitry modules to which they are electrically coupled, if applicable) may releasably attach to the sensor-retaining structures. To this end, an external surface of a component may form a friction fit with an internal surface of a wall of a sensorretaining structure, or may form a snap fit, such as an annular snap fit or cantilever snap fit, with the wall or other internal or external part of the sensor-retaining structure. In some embodiments, a non-mechanical coupling, such as magnetic coupling, may be used to retain the component in respective retaining structures.

[00305] In one form of the present technology, the eye mask comprises pockets into which a functional component (or their associated circuitry) are insertable to electrically couple with the bus.

[00306] A battery component of the eye mask system may comprise a rechargeable battery. The battery may be recharged by connecting it to an external power source, for example via a micro-USB or USB-C port of the battery module (the port being exposed via outer fabric layer, for example), or by inductive charging. In one form of the present technology, the battery may be a disposable battery, and may be removable by the user for replacement with a fresh battery.

[00307] As discussed above in relation to the functional module, the positioning of a recharge port may be selected to prevent the user from being able to wear the eye mask while a charging cable is connected, improving safety. For example, the port may be placed within the facecontacting structure of the eye mask such that any connected cable would lie uncomfortably over the eye, cheeks or face of the user when the eye mask is in a use position.

[00308] In one form of the present technology, one or more sensor components (and / or actuator modules) may be enclosed entirely between the fabric layers such that no part of the one or more sensor components is exposed. For example, an actuator module may be coupled to associated circuitry that is received in a sensor-retaining structure. Both the actuator and circuitry lie entirely between the fabric layers. In another example, a sensor component and associated circuitry may lie entirely between fabric layers. One example of a sensor module that may be fully embedded is an accelerometer or gyroscope.

[00309] In one form of the present technology, a sensor component or actuator component may be at least partly exposed. For example, a humidity sensor coupled to circuitry may be at least partly exposed to ambient through the outer fabric layer to measure humidity of the user’s environment. To this end, outer fabric layer may comprise an aperture through which a surface of the humidity sensor may be exposed. In another example, a sensor coupled to circuitry may have a surface thereof exposed through the inner fabric layer (e.g., through an aperture formed therein), such that the sensor surface can contact the skin of the user when the eye mask and / or functional module is worn by the user. The sensor may be a pulse oximeter, for example.

[00310] Although the electronic components are described above as being modular in construction, and in at least some cases able to be switched out for other components, in some forms of the present technology, one or more electronic components (such as sensors or actuators) may be woven or otherwise integrated into the eye mask. This may enable distribution of a sensor over a larger area for more informative and / or accurate measurements to be made.

[00311] Some forms of the present technology may comprise one or more sensors for determining sleeping position and movements of a user. In one form of the present technology, the determined sleeping position and movements may be used to provide a sensory stimulus to the user to cause them to change position. For example, if a number of apnea and / or hypopnea events above a certain threshold, and / or a decrease in blood oxygenation, is detected by the one or more sensors, this may be indicative of the user sleeping in a supine position (back sleeping). One or more actuators may receive an activation signal based on the detection, and the activation signal may cause the one or more actuators to generate a vibration or other tactile stimulus to irritate the user sufficiently to cause them to switch to another sleeping position.

[00312] The sensor component may incorporate an accelerometer and / or gyroscope. In one form of the present technology, accelerometer and / or gyroscope measurements may be used to determine a sleep stage of the user.

[00313] In one form of the present technology, a pulse oximeter incorporated in the sensor component may be used to assess sleep health. The pulse oximeter may be exposed through a user facing side of the eye mask such that it can contact the skin of the user’s forehead. Measurements recorded by pulse oximeter may be used to determine blood oxygen saturation level and heart rate during the period that the eye mask and / or functional module is worn, and this data may be transmitted to an external computing device such as a smartphone, other mobile computing device, or laptop or desktop computing system of the user. This communication may occur wirelessly (e.g., using Wi-Fi), although wired communication may also occur. The time series data may be consolidated to provide feedback to the user on their health levels, and recommendations for follow-up (for example, by a clinician).

[00314] In one form of the present technology, an EEG sensor may be provided in the eye mask. The EEG sensor may be partially exposed such that it can contact the skin of the user’s forehead. Typically, the EEG sensor comprises a plurality of EEG electrodes that generate signals that may be analysed to detect sleep stages. The signals may be transmitted (via transceiver) to an external device, such as the user’s smartphone, and the sleep stage, cycle and duration information may be used to provide feedback to the user on how sleep quality, as well as recommendations for enhanced health. For example, the EEG sensor measurements may be used for accurate sleep staging, to enable a more accurate determination of when an apnea or arousal from sleep occurs, e.g. during a sleep study.

[00315] In one form of the present technology, the sleep stage information may be used to activate sleep-enhancing white / pink noise, and / or binaural beats. Other light based interventions (for example using LEDs) may be used, such as pulsing, breathing cycle, slow intensity rise, steady, paced breathing cycle, slow or fresh wake up, and circadian rhythm correction. These may be produced by audio devices embedded in the eye mask itself, or by external devices such as earbud speakers, headphones that receive trigger signals from the sensor component via transceiver. For example, one or more miniature bone-conduction speakers may be incorporated in noise reduction components.

[00316] In one form of the present technology, an eye mask may incorporate electromyography (EMG) and / or electrooculography (EOG) sensors. EMG and EOG sensor signals may be analysed to determine REM sleep stage occurrences. An EOG sensor collects electrical signals related to eye movements. It measures the changes in voltage produced by the muscles surrounding the eyes, providing information about horizontal and vertical eye movements, as well as blink artefacts. In similar fashion to examples that incorporate EEG sensors, the sleep stage information determined by the EMG / EOG sensors may be used to provide feedback to the user on sleep quality, or to activate one or more audio, light and / or haptic devices to produce sleep-enhancing interventions.

[00317] In one form of the present technology, an eye mask may incorporate a pulse oximeter (SpO2) sensor. The SpO2 sensor is used to measure the oxygen saturation in red blood cells.

[00318] In one form of the present technology, an eye mask may incorporate a respiratory rate (RR) sensor.

[00319] In one form of the present technology, an eye mask may incorporate a heart rate (HR) sensor and / or a heart rate variability (HRV) sensor. In some examples, a single wavelength HR sensor may be considered to assess HR and HRV. For example, a HR / HRV sensor that emits light of a green wavelength (~500nm) can be used, as this is effective for HR measurement. In some examples, a HR / HRV sensor that uses one or more IR wavelengths may be deployed, as this is less likely to disrupt the user during sleep.

[00320] In one form of the present technology, an eye mask may incorporate an inertial measurement unit (IMU). An IMU sensor collects data related to motion and orientation. It typically includes a combination of sensors to measure various aspects of movement, position and / or orientation.

[00321] In one form of the present technology, an eye mask may incorporate a photoplethysmogram (PPG) sensor. A PPG sensor collects data related to blood volume changes in the microvascular bed of tissue. It typically measures the variations in light absorption or reflection caused by blood flow.

[00322] In one form of the present technology, an eye mask may incorporate a microphone. The microphone acts as a sensor by detecting sounds from the ambient environmental around the user. For example, when snoring from the user is detected, physical or visual cues may be activated to prompt the user to side sleep position.

[00323] For example, a ground electrode and reference electrode may be provided in a user facing side of the eye mask, and exposed through respective apertures so as to be able to contact the user’s forehead. In another example, a ground electrode may be provided in noise reduction component such that the ground electrode sits behind the user’s ear in use. Further electrodes may be provided, each having a cable that attaches to and / or extends within eye mask at one end, and to an external electrode patch at the other end, the electrode patch being positionable by the user on the temple and below their eye to provide two additional measurement channels.

[00324] The eye mask and / or functional module may comprise a sensory intervention component. The sensory intervention component received a signal from the sensor component, and based on predetermined algorithm, provide a light, haptic and / or audio output to the user. For example, LEDs may be directed to the user's eyes and / or eyelids to address sleep onset latency, facilitate paced breathing, provide mediation cues, reduce anxiety, facilitate wake up (sunrise simulation / warm white), and / or provide circadian rhythm correction (through use of blue light either steady or pulsing).

[00325] In one form of the present technology, a combination of sensors and actuators may be provided to effect localised temperature change to improve user comfort. For example, an EEG sensor and / or pulse oximeter may be provided, and a temperature sensor and / or a humidity sensor may also be provided. Signals from the EEG and / or PPG sensors may be analysed to detect sleep state, and signals from the temperature sensor and / or humidity sensor may be used to assess ambient comfort levels. One or more Peltier elements may be provided, for example in wearable form on a wristband, and may be coupled to circuitry that communicates with the EEG / PPG and temperature / humidity sensors to receive signals indicative of sleep state and ambient comfort level, and that causes the Peltier element to be activated to locally warm or cool the body (e.g. at the forehead or wrist) to help the user remain in a comfortable sleep state.

[00326] In one form of the present technology, a haptic feedback element (such as a miniature vibratory motor) may be incorporated in the eye mask, for example in a temple region of the user when in use. The haptic feedback element may deliver vibrations to the user to produce a calming effect. For example, processor may monitor heart rate data from a pulse oximeter, and if this exceeds a threshold, transmit a trigger signal to the haptic feedback element to cause it to vibrate at a few beats lower than the user’s current heart rate, to help slow it down. In another example, as mentioned above, a haptic feedback element may be used to influence the sleeping position of the user if it is detected that they are in a sleeping position that is correlated with apnea or hypopnea events.

[00327] In one form of the present technology, one or more miniature thermo electric generators (TEGs) may be incorporated into the eye mask, such that the difference between the user’s body temperature and the ambient temperature may be used to generate a potential difference and thus to provide power to the various electronic components (sensors, actuators, processor, etc.) of the eye mask.

[00328] In one form of the present technology, multiple sensors may be incorporated in a single module. For example, an accelerometer and gyroscope may be incorporated in a single package. 5.10 PIVOT COMPONENT

[00329] In some forms, the eye mask may be pivotable between an open position where the user’s eyes are uncovered, and a closed position where the user’s eyes are covered. The user may first wear the eye mask over his forehead in a pre-use position (corresponding to the open position). When the user is ready for sleep, in some forms, the user may pull the eye component and face-contacting structure down such that the eye mask is in the closed position and the eye component covers his eyes.

[00330] The pivot component allows the positioning and stabilising structure to always be in contact with the user's skin, while allowing for freedom of vision when the eye mask is not in use. For example, the positioning and stabilising structure may be an inner (base) band carrying the EEG electrodes and that is always in contact with the user’s skin, while the eye component (and face-contacting structure) is an outer (top) band, which is movable between the open and closed positions. This avoids needing to recalibrate the EEG when the user is ready to go to sleep.

[00331] In some forms, the eye mask may comprise a flip mechanism for pivotable movement between an open (pre-use) position and a closed (use) position. The flip mechanism may be attached to the positioning and stabilising structure and positioned adjacent to the forehead of the user. The flip mechanism is further attached to the eye component. In the open position, the eye component is positioned away from the user's eyes. For example, the eye component may be held adjacent to the forehead of the user. In the closed position, the eye mask is moved downwards to cover at least the orbital regions orbital regions of the user's face. In the closed position, the face-contacting structure is made to contact the user's face in order to block out light.

[00332] In one form of the present technology, the flip mechanism comprises a spring. The spring may be a leaf spring. This provides a tactile feedback and springs to the open or closed position automatically.

[00333] 5.11 COOLING COMPONENT

[00334] The eye mask may further comprise a cooling means. The cooling means may be positioned on or adjacent to the eye component and adjacent to a forehead of the user. The cooling means may be modular, and may sit in a pocket of the eye component or inserted within a recess of the face-contacting structure. The cooling means may comprise a peltier element. The cooling means may further comprise a heat sink and / or a micro fan for evacuating heat. Alternatively, a gel pack for cooling may be used. A temperature sensor may also be incorporated within or adjacent to the cooling means.

[00335] In one form of the present technology, an air moving device or blower may be incorporated into the eye mask or functional module. The blower allows for the circulation of air, thus cooling and / or ventilating a forehead area or eye area of the user. 5.12 IMAGING COMPONENT

[00336] Immersive technologies may present a user with a combination of a virtual environment and the user’s physical environment, or the real world. The user may interact with the resulting immersive or combined reality. The user may use the imaging component to assist with sleep and / or waking up, such as for paced breathing cues, sunrise simulation for slow / freshening wake up.

[00337] In one form of the present technology, the eye mask immerses the user by augmenting or replacing stimuli associated with one of the user’s five senses with a virtual stimuli. Typically, this is a virtual stimuli, although there could be additional stimuli that augment or replace stimuli associated with one of the additional four senses.

[00338] In some forms, a particular immersive technology may present a user with a combination of a virtual environment and the user’s environment. At least a portion of the resulting environment may include a virtual environment. In some examples, the entire resulting environment may be a virtual environment (e.g., meaning the user’s environment may be block from view or otherwise obstructed). In other forms, at least a portion of the user’s physical environment may still be visually observable.

[00339] In some forms, the user may use different types of immersive technologies, which may include, but are not limited to, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), or mixed reality (MR). Each type of immersive technology may present the user with a different environment and / or a different way to interact with the environment.

[00340] In some forms, a display system may be used with each type of immersive technology. A display screen of the display system may provide a virtual environment component to the combination environment (i.e., the combination of the virtual and user’s environments). In certain forms, the display screen may be an electronic screen. The display screen may be coupled to an inner surface of the eye component.

[00341] In at least some types of immersive technologies (e.g., VR, AR, MR, etc.), positioning and stabilizing the electronic screen may be useful in operating a respective device. For example, the user may desire the electronic screen to be positioned close enough to their eyes to allow for easy viewing, but far enough away so as not to cause discomfort. Additionally, the electronic screen may need to be spaced far enough away so that users may simultaneously wear corrective lenses, like glasses. In addition, users may seek to maintain the orientation of the electronic screen relative to their eyes. In other words, users who walk, or otherwise move, while using these devices may not want the device to bounce or otherwise move on their head (e.g., particularly relative to their eyes), as this may cause dizziness and / or discomfort to the user. Therefore, these devices may be supported snuggly against the user’s head in order to limit relative movement between the user’s eyes and the device.

[00342] In one form, the present technology comprises a method for using a VR device comprising supporting the device on the user’s head proximate to at least one of the user’s eyes, and within the user’s line of sight.

[00343] In certain examples of the present technology, a head-mounted display unit is supported in front of both of the user’s eyes in order to block, obstruct, and / or limit ambient light from reaching the user’s eyes.

[00344] Any features disclosed below in the context of a device configured for VR are to be understood as being applicable to devices configured for AR, unless the context clearly requires otherwise. Likewise features disclosed below in the context of a device configured for AR are to be understood as being applicable to devices configured for VR, unless the context clearly requires otherwise. For the avoidance of doubt, a feature disclosed in the context of a device that does not have a transparent display, through which the user can view the real world, is to be understood as being applicable to a device having such a transparent display unless the context clearly requires otherwise. Likewise a feature disclosed in the context of a device that has a transparent display, through which the real-world can be viewed, is to be understood to be applicable to a device in which the display is electronic and through which the real- world cannot be viewed directly through a transparent material.

[00345] In one form of the present technology, the eye mask comprises a head-mounted display unit. In some forms, a functional aspect may provide one or more physical components. In some forms, one or more physical components may provide one or more functional aspects. The head-mounted display unit may comprise a display. In use, the head-mounted display unit is arranged to be positioned proximate and anterior to the user’s eyes, so as to allow the user to view the display.

[00346] In other aspects, the display unit may also include a display unit housing, an optical lens, a controller, a speaker, a power source, and / or a control system.

[00347] The head-mounted display unit may include a structure for providing an observable output to a user. Specifically, the head-mounted display unit is arranged to be held (e.g., manually, by a positioning and stabilizing structure, etc.) in an operational position in front of a user’s face.

[00348] In some examples, the head-mounted display unit may include a display screen, a display unit housing, an face-contacting structure, and / or an optical lens. These components may be permanently assembled in a single head-mounted display unit, or they may be separable and selectively connected by the user to form the head-mounted display unit.

[00349] Some forms of the head-mounted display unit include a display, for example a display screen, but provided within the display housing. The display screen may include electrical components that provide an observable output to the user.

[00350] In one form of the present technology, a display screen provides an optical output observable by the user. The optical output allows the user to observe a virtual environment and / or a virtual object. [00351 ] The display screen may be positioned proximate to the user’s eyes, in order to allow the user to view the display screen. For example, the display screen may be positioned anterior to the user’s eyes. The display screen can output computer generated images and / or a virtual environment.

[00352] In some forms, the display screen is an electronic display. The display screen may be a liquid crystal display (LCD), or a light emitting diode (LED) screen.

[00353] In certain forms, the display screen may include a backlight, which may assist in illuminating the display screen. This may be particularly beneficial when the display screen is viewed in a dark environment.

[00354] In some forms, the display screen may extend wider a distance between the user’s pupils. The display screen may also be wider than a distance between the user’s cheeks.

[00355] In some forms, the display screen may display at least one image that is observable by the user. For example, the display screen may display images that change based on predetermined conditions (e.g., passage of time, movement of the user, input from the user, etc.).

[00356] In certain forms, portions of the display screen may be visible to only one of the user’s eyes. In other words, a portion of the display screen may be positioned proximate and anterior to only one of the user’s eyes (e.g., the right eye), and is blocked from view from the other eye (e.g., the left eye).

[00357] In one example, the display screen may be divided into two sides (e.g., a left side and a right side), and may display two images at a time (e.g., one image on either side).

[00358] Each side of the display screen may display a similar image. In some examples, the images may be identical, while in other examples, the images may be slightly different.

[00359] Together, the two images on the display screen may form a binocular display, which may provide the user with a more realistic VR experience. In other words, the user’s brain may process the two images from the display screen together as a single image. Providing two (e.g., un-identical) images may allow the user to view virtual objects on their periphery, and expand their field of view in the virtual environment.

[00360] In certain forms, the display screen may be positioned in order to be visible by both of the user’s eyes. The display screen may output a single image at a time, which is viewable by both eyes. This may simplify the processing as compared to the multi-image display screen.

[00361] In certain forms, the imaging module may comprise a camera. The camera may be external facing (non-user facing side). The camera may allow for interfacing of the imaging module with an external environment. 5.13 MASSAGE COMPONENT

[00362] In one form of the present technology, the eye mask comprises a massage means. The massage means may be positioned on the eye component. The massage means may provide compression and / or vibrational force to the orbital region of the user via electromechanical means (motor / solenoid), or fluid means (inflation / deflation). The compression and / or vibrational force may be strobed or follows a sinusoidal pattern. The massage means may also comprise LED, which may provide light as a steady output or pulsed / synchronised with a massaging pattern. 5.14 NOSE MASK

[00363] In one form of the present technology, the eye mask comprises a nose mask. The nose mask may be attached to the eye component. The nose mask may be positionable over a nose bridge region or nose ridge region of the user. The nose mask may provide a barrier around an entrance to the user's nasal airways. The nose mask may comprise a filter. The filter may be used to filter out microbes and / or dust. The nose mask may also comprise a humidifier. 5.15 PAIRING WITH AN EXTERNAL DEVICE

[00364] In some forms, the modules and components as disclosed herein may be paired with a smartphone, or other electronic device. For example, the user may be able to select a sound output using an application on the smartphone or other electronic device. The application may allow the user to select white noise, music, sleep meditation, or any other sound that may assist the user in falling asleep.

[00365] In some forms, the noise-cancellation electronics may operate without a smartphone application or other outside electronic device. For example, the noise-cancellation electronics may be contained on the eye mask.In certain forms, the speaker may be connected to an external device. For example, a home alarm system (e.g., as a result of fire, carbon monoxide, a breakin, etc.) and / or a car alarm may be wirelessly connected to the speaker. Activation of either alarm may play a sound on the speaker to alert the user. The sound may override a noise otherwise selected by the user. When using noise-cancellation electronics, the activation of an alarm may automatically deactivate the noise-cancellation so that the user can hear the alarm. 5.16 PULL TAB

[00366] In some forms, the eye mask comprises a pull tab. The pull tab may be positioned adjacent to a forehead region of the user in use. The pull tab may be positioned on the eye component or the positioning and stabilising structure of the eye mask. For example, the pull tab may be adjacent to a nasal bone of the user in use, or positioned in a region between the eyes of the user in use. The pull tab allows the user to index the eye mask forward such that sufficient space may be created for the eye component to clear the electronic module to be pulled downwards, and / or for inserting an electronic module into a pocket. The pull tab may also be used by the user to adjust the position of the eye mask, and hence improve comfort. When the pull tab is attached to the eye component, the pull tab may also be used to separate the eye component from the positioning and stabilising structure. 5.17 EMBODIMENTS OF THE TECHNNOLOGY Embodiments of the present technology are described below.

[00367] FIG. 1A shows an eye mask 1000. The eye mask 1000 comprises an eye component 1010 positioned over at least orbital regions of a face of a user. The orbital region includes a supra-orbital region. The eye component 1010 is further positioned over a portion of an infraorbital region of the user. The eye component 1010 is configured to block light to the eyes. The eye component 1010 is further positioned over a portion of a nasal region of the user. The eye component 1010 is further positioned over a portion of a zygomatic region of the user. The eye mask 1000 comprises a face-contacting structure 1020 connected to the eye component 1010. The face-contacting structure 1020 is constructed and arranged to engage the user's face. This prevents stray light from entering the inner space of the eye mask 1000 and to the eyes. A positioning and stabilising structure 1030 is attached to the eye component 1010 for attaching the eye mask 1000 to the user's face. The positioning and stabilising structure 1030 may be laminated to the eye component 1010. The positioning and stabilising structure 1030 may be formed as an elastic headband and comprises a front section 1030A and a rear section 1030B. This may provide additional support to prevent displacement of the eye mask 1000 during use.

[00368] FIG. IB shows the user facing side of eye mask 1000. The eye component 1010 comprises at least one cavity configured to space the eye component apart from the eyes of the user. The cavity over each eye of the user is linked via a bridge portion. The face-contacting structure 1020 further comprises a bridge 1040 for stabilising the eye mask 1000 on a nasal region of the user's face. The bridge 1040 may be made of a different material (for example, a stiffer material) than the face-contacting structure 1020.

[00369] FIG. 2A illustrates another eye mask 2000. Eye mask 2000 comprises an eye component 2010. The face-contacting structure 2020 underlies the eye component 2010. The positioning and stabilising structure 2030 is attached to the eye component 1010. The positioning and stabilising structure 2030 formed as a flexible headband circumferentially positionable on a user's head. The positioning and stabilising structure 2030 may further be contiguous with the eye component 2010 such that the eye mask may be worn as a headband on a user's head when not in use. Eye component 2010 is circumferentially attached to at least a portion of the positioning and stabilising structure 2030. Alternatively, eye component 2010 may be formed as a flexible headband circumferentially attached to the positioning and stabilising structure 2030. In this position, the eye component 2010 overlays the positioning and stabilising structure 2030. The positioning and stabilising structure 2030 and the eye component 2010 may be formed of different materials. Alternatively, the face-contacting structure 2020 may be formed of a different material relative to the eye component 2010.

[00370] In use, the eye component 2010 may be pulled down to cover the user's eyes (FIG. 2B). The face-contacting structure 2020 contacts at least the orbital regions of the user's face to block out light to the eyes. Pulling down the eye component 2010 exposes a sensor module 2050 positioned on the positioning and stabilising structure 2030. The sensor module 2050 may be detachable, and may be configured to measure EEG.

[00371] Eye mask 3000 is shown in FIG. 3A. Eye mask 3000 comprises an eye component 3010 and face-contacting structure 3020. The eye component 3010 may be a perforated, light blocking material or composite material. The eye component 3010 may be made breathable, so as to provide comfort to the user. The face-contacting structure 3020 may be a breathable foam. The eye component 3010 may be laminated to the face-contacting structure 3020. The eye component 3010 is attached to a positioning and stabilising structure 3030 at its ends thereof. The positioning and stabilising structure 3030 may be a strap, which may be elastic. The positioning and stabilising structure 3030 may further comprise adjustable means for fitting the eye mask 3000 to the user's head.

[00372] FIG. 3B shows the user facing side of the eye component 3010 and face-contacting structure 3020 of eye mask 3000. The eye component (and the face-contacting structure 3020) is further positionable over the forehead of the user. Eye component 3010 may be a perforated, light blocking material or composite material laminated to face-contacting structure 3020. The face-contacting structure 3020 comprises at least one orifice for housing the eye component 3010. The face-contacting structure 3020 comprises a foam, having a thickness of about 1 cm to about 10 cm. The face-contacting structure 3020 may have a gradient of decreasing thickness towards the orifice in order to improve the breathability of the eye mask 3000. The facecontacting structure 3020 may further be perforated to increase the breathability of the eye mask 3000.

[00373] Eye mask 400 of FIG. 4A comprises an eye component 4010, face-contacting structure 4020 and positioning and stabilising structure. As shown in FIG. 4B, the positioning and stabilising structure may be bifurcated into a first section 4070A and a second section 4070B. The positioning and stabilising structure may be bifurcated at opposed sides of the eye component 4010, or adjacent to a temporal region of a user's head in use. The eye mask 4000 comprises a noise reduction component 4060 configured to fit over and / or at least partially inside respective ears of the user. The noise reduction component 4060 may be coupled to the eye component 4010. The noise reduction component 4060 may be contiguous with the eye component 4010. In this regard, the noise reduction component 4060 and the eye component 4010 may be formed form a single material or composite material. Alternatively, the noise reduction component 4060 may be a modular component which is attachable to the eye mask 4000 via tabs at opposed ends of the eye component 4010 thereof.

[00374] FIG. 4C shows the components of a noise reduction component 4060. The noise reduction component 4060 comprises a sound absorbing material 4210, a sound absorbing foam 4220, a speaker casing 4230, a speaker 4240, a second sound absorbing foam 4250, and a mesh material 4260. The sound absorbing material 4210, a second sound absorbing foam 4250, and a mesh material 4260 may be laminated together, and provides with passive sound blocking. The speaker 4240 may provide white noise to aid a user's sleep. A noise cancelling component may also be incorporated, and may provide Ai-assisted smart sound blocking or active noisecancellation electronics while ensuring essential sounds such as a baby's cry can still pass through.

[00375] FIG. 5A is a further embodiment of the eye mask 5000. The eye component 5010 and face-contacting structure 5020 are similarly sized and covers the forehead and a portion of the nasal region of the user’s face. The positioning and stabilising structure 5030 has a similar width relative to the eye component 5010, and overlays at least an otobasion superior region of the user's head in use. The positioning and stabilising component 5030 may be configured to overlay an otobasion superior region and otobasion inferior region of the user's head in use.

[00376] FIG. 5B shows the eye mask 5000 in a scrunched up configuration. The positioning and stabilising structure 5030 may be pretensioned and made from a soft elastic textile to evenly distribute contact pressure on the face. The curved morphology of the eye component 5010 conforms to the user's face, and provides better skin contact and light blocking.

[00377] FIG. 6A and 6B show an eye mask 6000. The eye component 6010 and facecontacting structure 6020 are similarly sized and covers the forehead and a portion of the nasal region of the user's face. The face-contacting structure 6020 is further contoured to conform to the user's face for a better fit. In this regard, the eye mask 6000 further comprises a bridge portion 6040 between the left and right orbital regions of the eye component 6010. This may provide better stability to the eye mask 6000 when in use. The positioning and stabilising structure 6030 overlays an otobasion superior region of the user's head in use. The positioning and stabilising structure 6030 comprises a rigidiser 6080. The rigidiser 6080 may extend throughout the positioning and stabilising structure 6030 or at least at a portion of the positioning and stabilising structure 6030. The rigidiser 6030 provides stability to the eye mask 6000 during use.

[00378] FIG. 7A shows an eye mask 7000. The eye component 7010 and face-contacting structure 7020 are similarly sized and covers the forehead and a portion of the nasal region of the user's face. The face-contacting structure 7020 is further contoured to conform to the user's face for a better fit. In this regard, the eye mask 7000 further comprises a bridge portion 7040 between the left and right orbital regions of the eye component 7010. This may provide better stability to the eye mask 7000 when in use. The positioning and stabilising structure 7030 overlays a otobasion superior region of the user's head in use. The positioning and stabilising structure 7030 may comprise adjustable means for tightening the eye mask 7000 to a user's head.

[00379] FIG. 7B and 7C show the positioning and stabilising structure 7030 bifurcated at opposed sides of the eye component 7010, or adjacent to a temporal region of a user's head in use. The positioning and stabilising structure 7030 is bifurcated to form a first bifurcated section 7070A and a second bifurcated section 7070B, wherein the first and second bifurcated sections jointly cradle a crown of the user's head in use. The first bifurcated section 7070A and second bifurcated section 7070B may be movable relative to each other such that the user may adjust the positioning and stabilising structure 7030 to a comfortable position.

[00380] FIG. 8A shows an eye mask 8000. The eye component 8010 and face-contacting structure 8020 are similarly sized and covers the forehead and a portion of the nasal region of the user's face. The face-contacting structure 8020 is further contoured to conform to the user's face for a better fit. In this regard, the eye mask 8000 further comprises a bridge portion 8040 between the left and right orbital regions of the eye component 8010. This may provide better stability to the eye mask 8000 when in use. The positioning and stabilising structure 8030 overlays an otobasion superior region of the user's head in use. The positioning and stabilising structure 8030 may comprise adjustable means for tightening the eye mask 7000 to a user's head.

[00381] FIG. 8B shows the positioning and stabilising structure 8030 bifurcated at opposed sides of the eye component 8010, or adjacent to a temporal region of a user's head in use. The positioning and stabilising structure 8030 is bifurcated to form a first bifurcated section 8070A and a second bifurcated section 8070B, wherein the first and second bifurcated sections jointly cradle a crown of the user's head in use. In this case, the angle at which the first bifurcated section 8070A and second bifurcated section 8070B meets with each other is fixed, and may be about 60° to about 120°. The positioning and stabilising structure 8030 may have a width or thickness of about 10 mm to about 50 mm, and may be formed from a fabric composite material. The positioning and stabilising structure 8030 may comprise a foam sandwiched between fabric layers.

[00382] FIG. 9A and 9B show an eye mask 9000. The eye component 9010 and facecontacting structure 9020 are similarly sized. The face-contacting structure 9020 is further contoured to conform to the user's face for a better fit. The eye mask 9000 further comprises a bridge portion 9040 between the left and right orbital regions of the eye component 9010. The positioning and stabilising structure comprises a first section 9072 which acts as a headband, configured to circumferentially and elastically bind to the user's head. A second section 9074 is connected to the eye component 9010 and is movably attached to the first section 9072. The eye mask 9000 further comprises flip means 9080 for movably connecting the eye component to the positioning and stabilising structure between an open position and a closed position. The flip means 9080 may be positioned adjacent to the forehead of the user. In the open position, the eye component 9010 is positioned away from the user's eyes. For example, the eye component 9010 may be held adjacent to the forehead of the user (FIG. 9A). In the closed position, the eye mask 9000 is moved downwards to cover the forehead, orbital regions and a portion of the nasal region of the user's face (FIG. 9B). The face-contacting structure 9020 is made to contact the user's face.

[00383] FIG. 9C shows eye mask 9000. The flip means 9080 may be a spring such as a leaf spring. This provides a tactile feedback and springs to the open or closed position automatically.

[00384] FIG. 10A shows eye mask 10000. The eye mask 10000 may rest on a user's forehead when the user is not yet ready for sleep. The eye mask 10000 comprises an eye component 10010, a face-contacting structure and positioning and stabilising structure. The face-contacting structure is dimensioned to be similar in size with the eye component 10010. The eye component 10010 and face-contacting structure may be formed from a single material or composite material. The face-contacting structure may further comprise thermoformed bridge portion to conform to the nose and further aid in light blocking. The eye component 10010 forms an outer band which loops around the user's head. The eye component 10010 is connected to the positioning and stabilising structure, for example, via a textile shroud. For example, the positioning and stabilising structure may form an inner band within loops around the user's head. The inner band may be circumferentially connected to the outer band. In this position, the positioning and stabilising structure is hidden behind the eye component 10010. The eye component 10010 is movably to cover at least the eyes of the user

[00385] FIG. 11A shows eye mask 11000 comprising eye component 11010, face-contacting structure 11020 and positioning and stabilising structure 11030. The eye mask 11000 further comprises a sensor module 11090. The sensor module 11090 is positioned on the eye component 11010 and at adjacent to a forehead of the user. The sensor module may be configured to sense EEG, and / or PPG. As shown in FIG. 1 IB, the eye mask 11000 further comprises electrode 11100 on an inner surface thereof, or on a user facing surface. The electrodes 11100 receives a signal from the user and send the signal or a derivative thereof to the sensor module 11090. The electrode 11100 may be provided on a fabric or padding 11110, which may be removable.

[00386] FIG. 12A shows eye mask 12000 comprising eye component 12010, face-contacting structure 12020 and positioning and stabilising structure 12030. The eye mask 12000 further comprises cooling module 12090. The cooling module 12090 is positioned on the eye component 12010 and at adjacent to a forehead of the user. The cooling module may comprise a peltier element. The cooling module may further comprise a heat sink and / or a micro fan for evacuating heat (FIG. 12B). A temperature sensor may also be incorporated within or adjacent to the cooling module 12090.

[00387] FIG. 13A shows eye mask 13000 comprising eye component 13010 and positioning and stabilising structure 13030. The eye component 13010 overlaps the positioning and stabilising structure 13030 at a forehead region of the user. FIG. 13B shows a back view of the eye mask 13000. Pocket 13120 is positioned such that it is adjacent to the user's forehead in use. The pocket 13120 is formed from substantially the same material as the positioning and stabilising structure 13030. The pocket comprises a window 13130 for exposing at least one electrode of an electronic module, which may be housed within the pocket and is detachable from the eye mask 13000. When the electronic module is housed, the electronic module is not visible from an external (non-user facing) side of the eye mask. The eye mask 13000 further comprises a pull tab 13140. The pull tab 13140 is attached to the eye component 13010. The pull tab 13140 is positioned at a forehead region and in a region between the eyes of the user in use.

[00388] FIG. 14 shows a front and back view of eye mask 14000 comprising eye component 14010 and positioning and stabilising structure 14030. The eye component 14010 overlaps the positioning and stabilising structure 14030 at a forehead region of the user, and in particular at a supraorbital ridge. As shown in the back view, an internal side of the eye component 14010 is bordered by a face-contacting structure, which also acts a cushion. Pocket 14120 is positioned such that it is adjacent to the user's forehead in use, and in particular at a supraorbital ridge. The pocket 14120 is formed from substantially the same material as the positioning and stabilising structure 14030. The pocket 14120 comprises a window 14130 for exposing at least one electrode of an electronic module, which may be housed within the pocket 14120 and is detachable from the eye mask 14000. When the electronic module is housed, the electronic module is not visible from an external (non-user facing) side of the eye mask 14000. The pocket 14120 may form a bulge at an external (non-user facing) side of the eye mask 14000. This provides more space for housing an electronic module. Other modules such as a cooling module may be incorporated into the pocket 14120. The eye mask 14000 further comprises a pull tab 14140. The pull tab 14140 is attached to the eye component 14010. The pull tab 14140 is positioned at a forehead region and in a region between the eyes of the user in use.

[00389] FIG. 15A shows a front of eye mask 15000 comprising eye component 15010 and positioning and stabilising structure 15030. The eye component 15010 overlaps the positioning and stabilising structure 15030 at a forehead region of the user, and in particular at a supraorbital ridge. FIG. 15B shows a back view of eye mask 15000, an internal side of the eye component 15010 is bordered by a face-contacting structure 15020, which also acts a cushion. Pocket 15120 is positioned such that it is adjacent to the user's forehead in use, and in particular at a supraorbital ridge. The pocket 15120 is formed from substantially the same material as the positioning and stabilising structure 15030. The pocket 15120 comprises a window 15130 for exposing at least one electrode of an electronic module, which may be housed within the pocket 15120 and is detachable from the eye mask 15000. When the electronic module is housed, the electronic module is not visible from an external (non-user facing) side of the eye mask 15000. The pocket 15120 may form a bulge at an external (non-user facing) side of the eye mask 15000. This provides more space for housing an electronic module. Other modules such as a cooling module may be incorporated into the pocket 15120.

[00390] FIG. 16A and 16B show eye mask 16000 comprising a flip mechanism 16080 for pivotable movement between an open (pre-use) position and a closed (use) position. The flip mechanism 16080 is attached to the positioning and stabilising structure 16030 and positioned adjacent to the temple of the user. The flip mechanism 16080 is further attached to the eye component 16010. In the open position, the eye component 16010 is positioned away from the user's eyes (FIG. 16A). For example, the eye component 16010 may be held adjacent to the forehead of the user. In the closed position (FIG. 16B), the eye component 16010 is moved downwards to cover at least the orbital regions orbital regions of the user's face.

[00391] FIG. 17 shows eye mask 17000. The eye component 17010 is separate-able from the positioning and stabilising structure 17030 via the pull tab 17140.

[00392] FIG. 18A shows a back view of eye mask 18000. The eye mask 18000 comprises an eye component 18010 positionable over at least orbital regions of a face of a user. The eye component 18010 is further positionable over a portion of an infra-orbital region of the user. The eye component 18010 is further positionable over a portion of a nasal region of the user. The eye component 18010 is further positionable over a portion of a zygomatic region of the user. The eye mask 18000 comprises a face-contacting structure 18020 connected to the eye component 18010. The face-contacting structure 18020 is constructed and arranged to engage the user's face such that the eye component 18010 is spaced apart from the user's eyes. The face-contacting structure comprises a recess 18150 positionable over a frontal region of the face of the user. A module (not shown) may be inserted into the recess 18150. A positioning and stabilising structure 18030 is attached to the eye component 18010 for attaching the eye mask 18000 to the user's face. The positioning and stabilising structure 18030 comprises a left strap and a right strap. The left strap and right strap may be connected by a connector such as a buckle. The positioning and stabilising structure 18030 may be adjustable.

[00393] FIG. 18B shows another back view of eye mask 18000. A module 18160 is inserted into recess 18150. Each end of the module 18160 comprises at least one protrusion for mating with complementary groove in the recess 18150.

[00394] FIG. 19 shows a perspective view of a functional module 19000. The functional module may be for fitting into a recess of an eye mask, such as eye mask 18000. The functional module 19000 is arcuated in shape so as to conform to a curvature of a user's forehead. Functional module 19000 comprises a first end portion 19170, a second end portion 19180, and a middle portion 19190. Functional module 19000 comprises a convex side 19200 and a concave side 19210. Connector 19220 is positioned at the middle portion 19190 and on the convex side 19200. The connector 19220 may be a magnet, for complementary coupling with another magnet in the recess of the eye mask. Backing 19230 at the convex side 19200 is curved and flexible such that when fitted into the recess of an eye mask, it may further bend to conform to a curvature of a user's forehead. The backing 19230 may be a semi rigid carrier for the PCB and electronics, which is glued to the fabric of convex side 19200 to form a seal.

[00395] Another example of a functional module 27000 is shown in FIG. 27, FIG. 28 and FIG. 29.

[00396] The functional module 27000 comprises a rigid or semi-rigid carrier 27100, a silicone housing or casing 27300, and a foam filler 27200. In some examples, the carrier 27100 carries electronic components, such as one or more PCBs. The housing 27300 may also carry one or more electronic components, such as PPG sensors. When the module 27000 is fitted to an eye mask, such as eye mask 18000, and the mask is donned by a user,

[00397] 15 the foam 27200 acts to buffer the user against any electronic components so as to avoid causing discomfort. To this end, electronic components may be placed on the carrier 27100 and / or within the housing 27300, and may even be embedded within foam filler 27200, so long as the foam 27200 provides sufficient cushioning when the mask (e.g. mask 18000) is donned.

[00398] The casing 27300 is less rigid than the carrier 27100. In some examples, the casing 27300 may be about half as rigid as the carrier 27100. In one example, the casing 27300 has a Shore-A hardness of about 40 and the carrier 27100 has a Shore-A hardness of about 80.

[00399] A user-facing side 27310 of the module 27000 may comprise a plurality of electrodes 27250, 27252, 27254, 27256, 27258 for measuring EEG signals from a user. In some examples, the electrodes are dry electrodes. For example, the electrodes may be conductive silicone electrodes. The silicone casing 27300 may be overmoulded with the

[00400] 30 conductive silicone electrodes to ensure a seamless connection. The electrodes may connect to the PCB(s) (which may be borne on carrier 27100 as noted above) with flexible tracks. The dry electrodes may be formed from other suitable materials, such as Ag-AgCl electrodes, provided such materials are durable and can be used long term without replacement.

[00401] FIG. 20A shows a perspective view of another functional module 20000. The functional module 20000 is arcuated in shape so as to conform to a curvature of a user's forehead. Functional module 20000 comprises a first end portion 20170, a second end portion 20180, a middle portion 20190, a convex side 20200 and a concave side 20210. Convex side 20200 comprises a backing and concave side 20210 comprises a user-contacting layer 20240. The usercontacting layer 20240 comprises strips of conductive material 20250. In one example, the conductive material 20250 extends over at least a top side of the functional module 20000 and towards the convex side 20200. However, it is also possible for the conductive material 20250 to reside only on the user-contacting side

[00402] 10 20240. Each conductive strip 20250 acts as an electrode for an EEG system of the functional module 20000. Accordingly, together with suitable signal processing electronics provided in the module 20000, EEG signals may be measured when a user dons an eye mask, such as eye mask 18000, within which the module 20000 is fitted.

[00403] A width of the respective conductive strip 20250 adjacent to the first or second end portions 20170, 20180 is relatively greater than a width of the conductive strip 20250 adjacent to the middle portion 20190. By providing variable width electrodes 20250, it is possible to more reliably collect EEG signals from users of different head sizes. This is because, for example, in the 10-20 system, electrode placements correspond to

[00404] 20 relative locations on the head, whereas the positions of the electrodes 20250 are fixed. Accordingly, the variable width of the electrodes 20250 ensures that contact can be made at the appropriate relative locations on the user’s head, irrespective of head size.

[00405] The user-contacting layer 20240 also comprises a window 20260 for exposing an one or more sensors, such that the one or more sensors can collect data from the user’s forehead. Such sensors may comprise PPG sensors or the like. A top side of the functional module 20000 comprises a charging port 20270.

[00406] In some examples, the electrodes 20250 comprise a central electrode flanked by two pairs of secondary electrodes. A centreline of the central electrode may correspond approximately to the Fpz location in the 10-20 system. Centrelines of a first pair of the secondary electrodes may be approximately 30mm from the centreline of the central electrode on either side, and these electrodes may correspond to the Fpl and Fp2 locations respectively. Centrelines of a second pair of the secondary electrodes may be

[00407] approximately 50mm from the centreline of the central electrode on either side, and these electrodes may correspond to the Fp7 and Fp8 locations respectively.

[00408] Referring now to FIG. 29, similarly to the electrodes 20250, the electrodes 27250,

[00409] 27252, 27254, 27256, 27258 of the functional module 27000 may comprise a central electrode 27250 flanked by two pairs of secondary electrodes. Centrelines of a first pair 27252, 27254 of the secondary electrodes may be approximately 30mm from the centreline of the central electrode 27250 on either side. Electrode 27252 may correspond to the Fpl location and electrode 27254 may correspond to the Fp2 location

[00410] in the 10-20 system. Centrelines of a second pair 27256, 27258 of the secondary electrodes may be approximately 50mm from the centreline of the central electrode on either side, and these electrodes may correspond to the Fp7 (27256) and Fp8 (27258) locations respectively. Electrodes 27256 and 27258 may be wider than electrodes 27252 and 27254, which in turn are wider than central electrode 27250, for the reasons

[00411] mentioned above in relation to the varying widths of electrodes 20250.

[00412] FIG. 20B shows a front view of the functional module 20000. Convex side 20200 comprises a cooling component 20280, which may be a blower. The cooling component 20280 may have vents on the convex side 20200, so as to expel the heat generated from the components.

[00413] FIG. 20C shows a bottom view of the functional module 20000. Optical elements 20290, such as LED lights, may be arranged such that light can be emitted from the functional module 20000. For example, the optical elements 20290 may be used to emit light

[00414] 25 towards the user’s eyes from above to provide sleep or wake prompts, or to provide prompts for guided breathing to assist the user to fall asleep.

[00415] For example, the optical elements may be small LEDs mounted on PCBs (e.g. on carrier 27100 of module 27000) and may be enclosed in a silicone cover. The LEDs may be

[00416] 30 provided on a lower edge of the electronics module 20000 or 27000 to direct light via a gap between the eye mask and the user, towards the user’s eyes. For example, the LEDs may be grouped into sets of three colours, such as Warm White (3000 K), Blue (460-480 nm) and Red (650-700 nm), with the LEDs of different colours being activated at different times according to, for example, a sleep intervention algorithm. It will be

[00417] 35 appreciated that the number and wavelengths of the LEDs may vary.

[00418] FIG. 20D shows a cross sectional view of the functional module 20000. The conductive material 20250 comprises an electrical contact 20300, which make electrical contact with a component 20310, such as PPG, SpO2 sensor, and / or IMU sensor. Window 20260

[00419] is positioned adjacent to PPG sensor and / or SpO2 sensor and / or IMU sensor. Other components such as a cooling component (e.g. a Peltier element or miniature blower) 20280, battery, charging circuit, and Bluetooth transceiver, may be housed in the module 20000.

[00420] In some examples, EEG signals are acquired at a sampling rate of 250 Hz. PPG and IMU signals may be sampled at no more than 250 Hz, and possibly as low as 50 Hz.

[00421] FIG.21A shows a perspective view of a functional module 21000 without a backing at the convex side. The functional module 21000 is arcuated in shape so as to conform to a curvature of a user's forehead. Functional module 21000 comprises a first end portion 21170, a second end portion 21180, a middle portion 21190, and a concave side 21210. Concave side 21210 comprises a user-contacting layer 21240. The user-contacting layer 21240 comprises strips of conductive material 21250. The conductive material 21250 extends over top and bottom sides of the functional module 21000 and towards the convex side 21200. A width of the conductive strip 21250 adjacent to the first or second end portions 21170, 21180 is substantially similar to a width of the conductive strip 21250 adjacent to the middle portion 21190. The usercontacting layer 21240 also comprises a window 21260 for exposing an electrode of a sensor.

[00422] FIG. 2IB illustrates functional module 21000 without a backing at the convex side. The conductive material 21250 comprises an electrical contact 21300. The electrical contact 21300 extends over top and bottom side of the functional module 21000.

[00423] Alternatively, FIG. 21C shows the electrical contact 21300 extending inwardly towards the cavity of the functional module 21000. The electrical contact 213000 penetrates the user-contacting layer and the foam (if present), and extends into the cavity of the functional module 21000.

[00424] FIG 2ID shows a cross sectional view of functional module 21000. A foam 21320 is adjacent to an internal facing side of the user-contacting layer 21240 and within the cavity of the functional module 21000. A support 21330 is present within the cavity of the functional module 21000, which provides reinforcement and protection to the components. This support may be magnetic to provide a connection to a corresponding magnetic connection on the eye mask, and in some forms, within the recess of the eye mask.

[00425] The present technology concerns systems, methods, and apparatus for screening and / or monitoring a physical state of the user, and / or providing feedback to the user on the quality of sleep. The present technology may also diagnose a user's sleep pattern or sleep condition and provide remedial actions for assisting the user to fall asleep. For example, the eye mask may be capable of detecting eye movement the user, cardiac related movement, oxygen level, while the subject is asleep. Based on such detection, the user's sleep state may be detected.

[00426] An example system suitable for implementing the present technology is now described with reference to FIG. 22-26.

[00427] The user dons the eye mask 22000 comprising a positioning and stabilising structure 22030 and an eye covering component. The functional module 22160 may be in a recess of the eye mask and held in contact with the user's forehead via the positioning and stabilising structure 22030. The functional module 22160 may comprise a charging port for connecting to a charger 22340 or an external power source. In this regard, the functional module 22160 may comprise a rechargeable battery. Once charged, the functional module 22160 may be disconnected from charger 22340 and inserted into the recess of the eye mask for use.

[00428] The functional module 22160 may be wireless communicated with a mobile device 22350, or mobile electronic device. The mobile device 22350 may be configured with an application for screening and / or monitoring a physical state of the user. The mobile device 22350 may be, for example, a smartphone or tablet having one or more processors. The processor(s) may be configured to, among other things, execute the functions as shown in FIG. 23-26. For example, the processor(s) may cause an audio signal (or music or white noise) to be transmitted to the user via ear buds 22360 in order to induce the user to fall asleep. The mobile device may comprise, among other components, a speaker and a microphone. The speaker may be used to transmit the generated audio signal and the microphone to receive the reflected signal. The processor(s) may thus be configured to causing an audio signal to be generated and transmitted, typically through the air as a generally open or unrestricted medium such as in a room vicinity of the device, receiving a reflection of the transmitted signal by sensing it with, for example, a transducer such as a microphone, and processing the sensed signal to determine body movement and respiration parameters.

[00429] The mobile device may be adapted to provide an efficient and effective method of monitoring a subject's breathing and / or other movement related characteristics. When used during sleep, the mobile device and its associated methods can be used to detect the user's breathing and identify sleep stages, sleep states, transitions between states, sleep-disordered breathing and / or other respiratory conditions. When used during wake, the mobile device and its associated methods can be used to detect movement such as of a subject breathing (inspiration, expiration, pause, and derived rate) and / or ballistocardiogram waveform and subsequent derived heart rate. Such parameters may be used for controlling a game (whereby a user is guided to reduce their respiration rate for relaxation purposes), or evaluating respiratory condition such as of a subject with a chronic disease such as COPD, asthma, congestive heart failure (CHF) etc., where the subject's baseline respiratory parameter(s) change in the time before an exacerbation / decompensation event occurs. The respiratory waveform may also be processed to detect temporary cessation of breathing (such as central apnea, or the small chest movements against an obstructive airway seen during an obstructive apnea) or reduction in breathing (shallow breathing and / or reduction in breathing rate, such as related to a hypopnea).

[00430] The mobile device may include integrated chips, a memory and / or other control instruction, data or information storage medium. For example, programmed instructions encompassing the assessment / signal processing methodologies described herein may be coded on integrated chips in the memory of the device or apparatus to form an application specific integrated chip (ASIC). Such instructions may also or alternatively be loaded as software or firmware using an appropriate data storage medium. Optionally, such processing instructions may be downloaded such as from a server over a network (e.g. an internet) to the mobile device such that when the instructions are executed, the processing device serves as a screening or monitoring device.

[00431] Accordingly, mobile device may include a number of components such as a microphone or sound sensor, a processor, a display interface, a user control / input interface, a speaker, and a memory / data storage, such as with the processing instructions of the processing methodologies / modules described herein.

[00432] One or more of the components of mobile device may be integral with or operably coupled with mobile device. For example, microphone or sound sensor may be integral with mobile device or coupled with mobile device such as through a wired or wireless link (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi etc.).

[00433] Memory / data storage may comprise a plurality of processor control instructions for controlling processors. For example, memory / data storage may comprise processor control instructions for causing application to be performed by the processing instructions of the processing methodologies / modules described herein.

[00434] The mobile device may optionally be connected to a cloud 22370. The cloud may be configured to collect, store, and analyze data generated from the user's sleep.

[00435] FIG. 23 illustrates a high level architectural block diagram of a system for implementing aspects of the present technology. The system may be at least partially implemented in the functional module, and / or at least partially implemented in the mobile device. As described herein, the functional module may be wirelessly communicated with the mobile device.

[00436] The functional module 23160 may communicate with a mobile device having a processor. The processor may execute a software, such as a mobile device application 23380. The mobile device application 23380 may perform various data processing or computation. The mobile device application 23380 comprises user controllable functions such as settings of the components, selection of component, activation of selected component. The mobile device application 23380 thus sends instructions from the user to the functional module 23160 via a network. The network may be a short-range wireless communication network, or Bluetooth. The mobile device application 22380 may further comprise instructions on how to use the functional module and components, help and support, feedback and suggestions. The mobile device application 23380 is also able to receive data from the functional module 23160 via a network. The data, once received, may be processed by the mobile device application 23380 for real time intervention. For example, if it is determined from the data that the user is having difficulties sleeping, an audio signal (or music or white noise) may be played via speakers 23390-1 (or wirelessly via Bluetooth speakers). Parameters of the audio such as volume, modulation, content, timing and duration, may be pre-set by the user. The audio may thus be transmitted to the user in order to induce the user to fall asleep. The data may alternatively be transferred to a cloud 23370 for storage, and / or analysis. The user is thus able to wirelessly control the functional module 23160 via the mobile device application 23380.

[00437] Depending on the amount of battery charge in the functional module 23160, the user may determine if the functional module 23160 is to be connected to a power supply 23400. The functional module 23160 may be connected to the power supply 23400 via a charger 23400, the charger 23400 for charging a battery 23410 in the functional module 23160. In this regard, the battery 23410 may be integrated within the functional module 23160 a part of a single circuitry. Alternatively, the functional module 23160 may comprise a battery slot for receiving a battery.

[00438] The functional module 23160 may be wirelessly communicating with the mobile device application 23380 for sending data and receiving instructions. For example, the functional module 23160 may be communicating with the mobile device application 23380 via Bluetooth. The functional module 23160 may comprise a microcontroller (MCU) 23420 as part of its single integrated circuity. The MCU 23420 may contain one or more CPUs (processor cores) along with memory and programmable input / output peripherals. Components of the functional module 23160 are thus connected to the MCU 23420 and forms part of the single integrated circuitry.

[00439] For example, the MCU 23420 may load a command or data received from the mobile device application 23380 to a LED component 23430. The data may relate to the brightness, modulation, colour, timing and duration of the LED 23430. The MCU 23420 may load a command or data received from the mobile device application 23380 to a blower component 23440. The blower component 23440 provides a flow of air to the user's face, and comprises a brushless DC motor drive 23450. The data may relate to a speed, timing and duration of the motor drive 23450, and / or the phase or pulse sequence of the blower component 23440.

[00440] As mentioned above, the speaker 23390-1 may be external to the functional module 23160. Alternatively, the speaker 23390-2 may be housed within the functional module 23160 and further integrated in the single integrated circuitry.

[00441] The MCU 23420 may receive data from the components housed within the functional module 23160 and sends the data to the mobile device application 23380. For example, the functional module 23160 may house a EEG component 23450, a PPG component 23460, an IMU component 23470, and a thermistor component 23480. The data from these components may be processed such as amplified, and / or filtered by the MCU 23420 before the output is sent to the mobile device application 23380. The processing of the data from these components may be performed by a signal processor 23490.

[00442] Fig. 24 shows another block diagram of a system for implementing aspects of the present technology. Certain components such as the speaker 23390-2, blower 23440, and thermistor 23480 are not included in this embodiment. This embodiment may thus be more cost effective and lighter for the user.

[00443] While not shown, the outputs of data or signal processing may undergo a second post-processing stage that provides sleep state, sleep scoring, fatigue indication, subject recognition, chronic disease monitoring and / or prediction, sleep disordered breathing event detection and other output parameters, such as from an evaluation of any of the motion characteristics of the produced motion signal(s). (e.g., respiratory related movement (or absence thereof), cardiac related movement, arousal-related movements, periodic leg movement, etc.). In some cases, the functions of signal post-processing or the second post-processing stage may be performed using any of the components, devices and / or methodologies of the apparatus, system and method described in any of the following patents or patent applications, wherein the entire disclosures of each is incorporated by reference herein: International Patent Application No. PCT / US2007 / 070196, filed June 1, 2007 and entitled "Apparatus, System, and Method for Monitoring Physiological Signs;" International Patent Application No. PCT / US2007 / 083155, filed October 31, 2007, entitled "System and Method for Monitoring Cardio-Respiratory Parameters;" International Patent Application No. PCT / US2009 / 058020, filed September 23, 2009, entitled "Contactless and Minimal-Contact Monitoring of Quality of Life Parameters for Assessment and Intervention;" International Application No. PCT / US2010 / 023177, filed February 4, 2010, entitled "Apparatus, System, and Method for Chronic Disease Monitoring;" International Patent Application No. PCT / AU2013 / 000564, filed March 30, 2013, entitled "Method and Apparatus for Monitoring Cardio-Pulmonary Health;" International Patent Application No. PCT / AU2015 / 050273, filed May 25, 2015, entitled "Methods and Apparatus for Monitoring Chronic Disease;" International Patent Application No. PCT / AU2014 / 059311, filed October 6, 2014, entitled "Fatigue Monitoring and Management System;" International Patent Application No. PCT / AU2013 / 060652, filed September 19, 2013, entitled "System and Method for Determining Sleep Stage;" International Patent Application No. PCT / EP2016 / 058789, filed April 20, 2016, entitled "Detection and Identification of a Human from Characteristic Signals;" International Patent Application No. PCT / EP2016 / 069496, filed 17 Aug 2016, entitled "Screener for Sleep Disordered Breathing;" International Patent Application No. PCT / EP2016 / 069413, filed August 16, 2016, entitled "Digital Range Gated Radio Frequency Sensor;" International Patent Application No. PCT / EP2016 / 070169, filed August 26, 2016, entitled "Systems and Methods for Monitoring and Management of Chronic Disease;" and U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 079,339, filed March 24, 2016, entitled "Detection of Periodic Breathing." Thus, in some examples, the processing of detected movement, including for example, the breathing movement, may serve as a basis for determining any one or more of (a) a sleep state indicating sleep; (b) a sleep state indicating awake; (c) a sleep stage indicating deep sleep; (d) a sleep stage indicating light sleep; and (e) a sleep stage indicating REM sleep.

[00444] Fig. 25 shows a flow chart describing how a user may use the eye mask and functional module. In this example, the user may be suffering from insomnia or is feeling anxious and / or stressed, which may or may not be contributed by the ambient environment. The user dons the eye mask and switches on the functional module, which may in turn activates the mobile device application for data collection, data processing and real time intervention. Alternatively, the functional module may be manually paired with the mobile device application. The mobile device application contains user specific information, which may be preset by the user, such as wake up time and type of sleep intervention. If the speaker is external to the functional module (i.e. provided via Bluetooth from the mobile device), the user wears earbuds so as to be able to receive an audio input such as relaxing music, nature sounds, pink noise pulses, and binaurals. If a blower is present, the blower may be activated via a preset condition, or upon detection of high ambient / skin temperature. In the meanwhile, components which receive biophysical data from the user are activated to collect data. If a long sleep onset latency (SOL) or wake after sleep onset (WASO) or high heart rate (HR) is detected, the user is instructed to follow a paced breathing pattern via audio or red LED lights cues. The components continue to monitor the biophysical signals from the user, and determine if sleep stage N1 (dosing off period) is reached. If so, the audio and / or LED cues are progressively reduced in magnitude as the user reaches sleep stage N2 (relaxed state; temperature drops and breathing and heart rate slow). Audio may continue at low volume if there is ambient noise or if user is a light sleeper. If sleep stage N3 (slow-wave, delta sleep) is detected, audio may continue at low volume if the user tends to get easily disturbed. If REM is detected, audio may continue at low volume if the user tends to get easily disturbed, or if user is in tonic REM phase. If excessive HR is detected, paced breathing audio may be initiated. If REM is detected towards wake up time, a smart wake-up function is initiated, in which white light and / or audio with increasing intensity may be activated. If circadian rhythm correction is set by the user, blue light is activated towards the specified wakeup time. When the eye mask is removed from the user's head, the functional module may automatically switch off after a pre-determined time after removal from the head. The functional module may be subsequently charged. After the sleep, the user is provided a feedback on the quality of sleep. Inferences from past number of days / weeks in view of user’s settings and interventions as well as resulting sleep patterns are processed and used to provide a more comprehensive analysis of sleep and the level of intervention required. The mobile device application may also provide suggestions to the user on improving sleep duration, quality, and / or sleep hygiene.

[00445] Fig. 26 shows a flow chart describing how a user may use the eye mask and functional module. In this example, the user dons the eye mask and functional module for a short nap during the day, the resting environment may or may not be polluted with light and / or noise from the ambient environment. The user switches on the functional module, which may in turn activates the mobile device application for data collection, data processing and real time intervention. Alternatively, the functional module may be manually paired with the mobile device application. The mobile device application contains user specific information, which may be preset by the user, such as wake up time and type of sleep intervention. If the speaker is external to the functional module (i.e. provided via Bluetooth from the mobile device), the user wears earbuds so as to be able to receive an audio input such as relaxing music, nature sounds, pink noise pulses, and binaurals. If a blower is present, the blower may be activated via a preset condition, or upon detection of high ambient / skin temperature. In the meanwhile, components which receive biophysical data from the user are activated to collect data. If a long sleep onset latency (SOL) or high heart rate (HR) is detected, the user is instructed to follow a paced breathing pattern via audio or red LED lights cues. The components continue to monitor the biophysical signals from the user, and determine if sleep stage N1 (dosing off period) is reached. If so, the audio and / or LED cues are progressively reduced in magnitude as the user reaches sleep stage N2 (relaxed state; temperature drops and breathing and heart rate slow). Audio may continue at low volume if there is ambient noise or if user is a light sleeper. Sleep stage N3 (slow-wave, delta sleep) may be avoided in daytime naps by using audio and / or light intervention in N2. Towards the wake up time, light and / or audio may be increased in intensity. When the eye mask is removed from the user's head, the functional module may automatically switch off after a pre-determined time after removal from the head. The functional module may be subsequently charged. After the sleep, the user is provided a feedback on the quality of sleep. Inferences from past number of days / weeks in view of user’s settings and interventions as well as resulting sleep patterns are processed and used to provide a more comprehensive analysis of sleep and the level of intervention required. The mobile device application may also provide suggestions to the user on improving sleep duration, quality, and / or sleep hygiene.

[00446] A further form of the eye mask 30000 can be seen in Figures 30-34, including FIG. 34 where the eye mask is shown in use covering the eyes of a user, held in position by the positioning and stabilising structure. In some forms, eye mask 30000 comprises eye component 30100, face-contacting structure 30200, positioning and stabilising structure 30600 and functional module 30500.

[00447] For the purposes of further description, eye mask 30000 will be described as having a top side as indicated by 30001, and bottom side 30002, inferior to the top side 30001. The terms anterior and posterior when referring to features of the eye mask 30000 refers to the anterior and posterior positions when the eye mask is in position on a user’s face. For example, the posterior surface of the eye component is the user-facing surface and the anterior surface of the eye component will be the non-user facing surface.

[00448] Eye component 30100 forms the anterior, non-user facing side of eye mask 30000 and can be seen in at least FIG. 30-34, 38-40, 44, 50 and 51.

[00449] In some forms, eye component 30100 is sized and configured to block light to the eyes of the user and may be sized such that it covers at least orbital regions of a face of a user and may also cover the supra-orbital region, infraorbital region, nasal region, zygomatic region, frontal bone region, forehead region, glabella and / or upper maxilla region or parts / combinations thereof. The eye component may be sized to further cover a portion of an infra-orbital region of the user in use. An oversized eye component may double up as a pillow and provide comfort to the user.

[00450] In some forms, eye component 30100 is formed as a curved member having a first anterior surface 30101 and opposing posterior, user facing surface 30105. Eye component 30100 may be formed from a single piece of material, or may be formed from a number of different materials or layers connected or laminated together, forming a member having an anterior surface 30101 and posterior surface 30105. Eye component 30100 may have an overall curvature around the sagittal axis of the mask when in an in-use position as seen in FIG. 34. In some forms the eye component has an overall curvature around the transverse axis of the mask when in an in-use position as seen in FIG. 34. Eye component 30100 may comprise a single curved anterior and / or posterior surface, or a doubly-curved posterior and / or anterior surface. In one form, the eye component has an overall curvature such that the anterior surface of the eye component is substantially convex and the posterior surface of the eye component is substantially concave. In some forms, eye component 30100 may comprise a substantially flat posterior surface 30105 and anterior surface 30101. In other forms eye component 30100 may be shaped to provide a substantially flat anterior surface 30101 and a free-form shaped posterior surface 30105.

[00451] In some forms, posterior surface 30105 of eye component 30100 is shaped to define one or more recesses, grooves, channels, depressions or walls. In other forms posterior surface 30105 of eye component 30100 may comprise one or more shaping members 30110 connected to posterior surface 30105 to create raised regions in the form of mounds, walls, contours or ridges. Shaping members 30110 may be configured to correspond to contours on a user’s face to provide additional comfort, improved sealing and / or light blocking abilities. Shaping members 30110 may be formed from one or more layers, for example base layer 30111 and shaped second layer 112. Layers may be thermoformed, laminated or otherwise connected together.

[00452] In some forms, the perimeter of eye component 30100 is shaped to include a nasal curve 30710 along the inferior, bottom side 30002 of eye component 30100. In some forms nasal curve 30710 curves around the anterior / posterior axis of the eye mask 30000 to accommodate the nasal bridge of a user. Nasal curve 30710 ensures the eye sits comfortably on the user’s nasal bone in use, rather than pressing against the softer cartilage region of the nose.

[00453] In one form of the present technology, the nasal curve 30710 is formed by curving the eye-component material such that it forms a parabola. In one form of the present technology, the nasal curve 30710 is characterised by a height to width ratio of about 1:1 to about 5:1, about 1:1 to about 4:1, about 1:1 to about 3:1, about 1:1 to about 2:1, or about 1.5:1 to about 2:1.

[00454] In one form of the present technology, the eye mask 30000 comprises at least one recess at a user facing / posterior side. The eye component 30100 may act in combination with the face-contacting structure 30200 to form the recess. The recess may be configured to space the eye component and face-contacting structure from the eyes of the user. Accordingly, in some forms, at least a portion of the posterior surface 30105 of the eye component is spaced apart from the eyes of the user during use.

[00455] In one form of the present technology, the eye component 30100 comprises a left section positionable over a left orbital region of the user's face and a right section positionable over a right orbital region of the user's face. The left section and right section may be similarly sized. The left and right section may be held in position relative to each other by the facecontacting structure.

[00456] In one form of the present technology, the eye component 30100 comprises a perforated, light blocking fabric material or composite material on the anterior surface 30101. The fabric or composite material may be made breathable, so as to provide comfort to the user. For example, silk, cotton or fleece may be used. The eye component may be formed from a material selected from perforated textile, breathable foam and / or fiber. Fabrics that are naturally thick and dense may also be used, such as velvet, heavy cotton, or woven jacquard. These fabrics have a tighter weave or a heavier weight, which helps to minimise the amount of light that can penetrate the material. Alternatively, a fabric composite material may be used. The composite material may be a laminated material.

[00457] In some forms of the present technology, the eye component comprises an elastic fabric material. For example, polyester, cotton, spandex, or nylon may be used, which may be further laminated with another fabric to increase its light blocking properties. In one form, the textile layer is a stretchable textile such as a knit fabric or stretchable non-woven. In some forms the stretchable fabric is a two-way or four-way stretch fabric.

[00458] In some forms the eye component comprises a laminate of textile and foam and may optionally be thermoformed to achieve a desired shape. In one form the eye component comprises a laminate of textile and foam and is formed such that the first anterior surface of the eye component comprises a textile and the opposing inner surface of the eye component comprises a foam.

[00459] In one form, the eye component comprises a textile layer on the anterior surface of the eye component, the textile layer connected to a periphery or edge of the eye component and / or face-contacting structure. In one form, the textile layer is solely connected at the periphery and is therefore not connected to the anterior surface of the eye component, allowing the textile layer to move freely across the anterior surface of the eye component and respond to pressure and movement without the formation of creases in the textile. Creasing in the textile may influence the light blocking characteristics of the textile and may also look unsightly and as such, should be avoided.

[00460] In one form, the textile layer is a stretchable textile such as a knit fabric or stretchable non-woven that is resistant to creasing. In some forms the stretchable fabric is a two-way or fourway stretch fabric.

[00461] In one form, the eye component or parts thereof are resiliently or elastically compressible. This may assist in enabling eye component 30100 to form to a user’s face, or flex in response to compressive forces during use.

[00462] The eye mask 30000 as shown in FIG 30-51 is discussed in further detail below. Eye mask 30000 includes a face-contacting structure 30200 connected to or contiguous with the posterior surface 30105 of eye component 30100 and provides a user-facing surface 30229 for direct connection to a user’s face. Since it is in direct contact with the user’s face, the shape and configuration of the face-contacting structure 30200 and user-facing surface 30229 can have a direct impact on the effectiveness and comfort of the eye mask. The face-contacting structure is configured to minimise or remove gaps between the user-facing surface 30229 and the user’s face, reducing undesirable light ingress into the user’s eyes.

[00463] The design of a face-contacting structure presents a number of challenges. The face has a complex three-dimensional shape. The size and shape of noses and heads varies considerably between individuals. Since the head includes bone, cartilage and soft tissue, different regions of the face respond differently to mechanical forces.

[00464] In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is contoured to conform to the user's face. For example, the face-contacting structure may be a hyperbolic paraboloid.

[00465] One type of face-contacting structure is a soft compressible material extending around the periphery of the eye mask that is intended to seal against the user’s face when force is applied to the eye mask, with the user-facing surface 30229 of the face-contacting structure in confronting engagement with the user’s face. With this type of face-contacting structure, there may be gaps between the face-contacting structure and the face, and additional force may be required to force the eye mask against the face in order to achieve the desired contact.

[00466] In some forms of the invention, the face-contacting structure 30200 comprises an outer user-facing surface 30229 and posterior surface 30205 configured to connect with posterior surface 30105 of eye component 30100.

[00467] In forms as shown in FIG. 33, 37 and 44, face-contacting structure 30200 is shaped to comprise a recess 30300 and cavity 30400. Recess 30300 is configured to be positioned on the eye mask superior to and centrally aligned with cavity 30400, proximate top of eye mask 30001.

[00468] In some forms, recess 30300 is configured to house a functional module and cavity 30400 is configured to surround a user’s eyes, providing space for eye movement and blinking, without risk of the user’s eyelashes touching inner surface 30229 when the mask is in position on the user’s face.

[00469] In some forms, each of recess 30300 and 30400 is defined or partially defined by a wall 30201 formed as part of face-contacting structure 23000, and optionally as part of eye component 30100. Wall 30201 extends from a base portion of recess 30300 and cavity 30400 to the user facing surface 30229. In some regions around the perimeter of either recess 30300 and / or recess 400, wall 30201 converges into a flat region of user-facing surface 30229, for example flat regions 30241A and 30242A of user-facing surface 30229 adjacent side wall sections 30241 and 30242 respectively of recess 30300.

[00470] In other regions of the face-contacting structure, wall 30201 is formed to create raised wall sections that comprise a user-facing surface wall portion 30215 bridging a first side wall portion 30216 extending between base portion of recess 30300 and / or 30400 and user facing surface wall portion 30215, and an opposing second side wall portion 30217. Second side wall portion 30217 may vary in height depending on the position on the face-contacting structure. For example, a second side wall portion 30217 may form part of the outer edge of the eye mask, such as over the nasal region, or along the top 30001 of eye mask 30000. In other regions, second side wall portion 30217 may form part of an internal wall structure surrounding recess 30300 and or 30400, therefore the height of second side wall portion at these regions may be less than the height of the second side wall portion near an edge of the eye mask 100. In some forms, recesses 30300 and 30400 share a wall, such that the first side wall portion 30216 of recess 30300 may be the second side wall portion 30217 of cavity 30400 and vice versa.

[00471] In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is configured to surround a supra-orbital region of the user's face. The face-contacting structure may be formed to surround more than the orbital regions of the user's face. The face-contacting structure may further surround an infra-orbital region of the user. The face-contacting structure may further surround a portion of a nasal region of the user. The face-contacting structure may further surround a portion of a zygomatic region of the user’s head. The face-contacting structure may further surround a forehead of the user.

[00472] In some forms, recess 30300 comprises base portion 30320, the perimeter of base portion 30320 defined by first side wall portion 30216 of wall 30201. Base portion 30320 of recess 30300 is formed such that the recess 30300 is positionable over the supra orbital and / or frontal bone / glabella region of the face of the user when the eye mask is in the use position.

[00473] In some forms, base portion 30320 of recess 30300 is an elongate polygon or rounded elongate polygon shape with the long axis of the elongate polygon oriented substantially parallel to the top 30001 and bottom 30002 of eye mask 30000, and sized to substantially traverse at least between the left and right supraorbital foramen and / or span the central region of the frontal bone of a user's head in use.

[00474] In some forms recess 30300 is shaped to receive or partially receive, and connect with a functional module 30500.

[00475] In one form the wall 30201 of the recess 30300 comprises a first raised wall section 30240 extending laterally in along a top edge of the recess 30300, proximate a top edge 1001 of the eye mask. First raised wall section 30240 comprises a first side wall portion 30216 and a second side wall portion 30217 opposing the first side wall portion 30216, the first and second side wall portions spanned by a user-facing surface wall portion 30215.

[00476] A second raised wall section 30250 spaced apart from the first raised wall section 30240 extends laterally along a bottom edge of the recess 30300, distal from the top edge 30001 of the eye mask 30100. Second raised wall section 30250 comprises a first side wall portion 30216 and a second side wall portion 30217 opposing the first side wall portion 30216, the first and second side wall portions spanned by a user-facing surface wall portion 30215. First raised wall section 30240 and second raised wall section 30250 are indirectly connected to each other at either end by side wall sections 30241 and 30242. Together, wall sections 30240, 30241, 30242 and 30250 form the boundary of recess 30300.

[00477] In one form the first raised wall section 30240 extends away from the base portion 30320 of recess 30300 further than the second raised wall section 30250, bringing the user-facing surface wall portion 30215 of first raised wall section 30240 closer to the user’s face than the user facing wall portion 30215 of the second raised wall section 30250, when the mask is in position on the user’s face. The reduced height of second raised wall section 30250 in comparison to first raised wall section 30240 may allow optional effects produced by functional module 30500 to reach the user’s eyes. For example, function module 30500 may comprise a light therapy component, and the comparatively reduced height of second raised wall section 30250 may allow light from functional module 30500 to enter cavity 30400 and subsequently the user’s eyes. In addition, having first raised wall section 30240 extend further from base portion 30320 than second raised wall section 30250 may improve retention of the functional module 30500 within recess 30300 as the user puts on the eye mask 30000. When the mask is being lowered into position from above the forehead, an upwards force is applied to function module 30500, and functional module 30500 is prevented from rotating or moving out of position by abutment with first raised wall section 30240.

[00478] In some forms, the first side wall portion 30216 and / or second side wall portion 30217 of the second raised wall section 30250 are variable in height along the length of the second raised wall section 30250.

[00479] The size and shape of the different wall sections of face component 30200 may vary across different eye masks to suit the facial profiles of particular population groups, for example by accounting for different forehead slopes / nasal bridge sizes. The heights of walls 30201 at different regions within the mask may change relative to each other to ensure optimum light blocking and comfort for the user.

[00480] In one form the wall 30201 comprises / is formed from both a curved / shaped posterior surface of eye component 30100 and a complementary shaped / curved face-contacting structure 30200. In other forms, the wall comprises / is formed from a shaped / curved face-contacting structure 30200 connected to a substantially flat posterior surface of the eye component 30100. [00481 ] The recess 30300 may be characterised by a depth from the base portion of the recess to the user-facing surface 30229 or user-facing surface wall portion 30215 of about 0.5 cm to about 5 cm, about 0.5 cm to about 4 cm, about 0.5 cm to about 3 cm, about 0.5 cm to about 2 cm. about 0.75cm to about 2 cm, about 1 cm to about 2cm.. The depth of the recess may be configured by varying the height of the walls 30201 of face-contacting structure 30200.

[00482] In some regions of the recess, the depth will be about 1mm to about 20mm, about 2mm to about 20mm, about 3mm to about 20mm, about 4mm to about 20mm, about 5mm to about 20mm, about 6mm to about 20mm, about 7mm to about 20mm, about 8mm to about 20mm or about 9mm to about 20mm, in particular at the lateral edges of recess 30300.

[00483] In some forms, base portion 30420 of cavity 30400 is defined or partially defined by a wall 30201 formed as part of face-contacting structure 30200, and optionally as part of eye component 30100. In use, cavity 30400 covers both the left and right eyes and wall 30201 surrounding recess base 30420 is configured to contact at least the orbital regions of the user's face.

[00484] In one form of the present technology, the cavity 30400 is defined along its top edge by second raised wall section 30250 extending laterally along a portion of, or all of a top edge of cavity 30400. Second raised wall section 30250 forms a raised wall section that forms a lateral boundary between recess 30300 and cavity 30400.

[00485] Second raised wall section 30250 comprises a first side wall portion 30216 and a second side wall portion 30217 opposing the first side wall portion 30216, the first and second side wall portions spanned by a user-facing surface wall portion 30215.

[00486] Cavity 30400 is defined along a bottom edge proximate bottom edge 30002 of eye mask 30000 by third raised wall section 30270 on the opposing side of cavity 30400 from second raised wall section 30250, third raised wall section 30270 comprising a first side wall portion 30216 extending from the recess base 30420 and a second side wall portion 30217 opposing the first side wall portion 30216, the first and second side wall portions spanned by a user-facing surface wall portion 30215. Second raised wall section 30250 and third raised wall section 30270 may vary in height along their length, with a change in the height of first side wall portion 30216 resulting in a corresponding change of recess depth. In one form the change in recess depth provides for a deeper recess around the eye region of the user that tapers to a shallower recess near the side edges 30271, 30272 of cavity 30400 for example.

[00487] Face-contacting structure 30200 is configured to contact or surround an area of the face defined by the supra-orbital region, infra-orbital region and nasal region of the user’s face such that cavity 30400 provides a region that cover’s the user’s eyes, with at least apportion of wall 30201 providing a seal against the user’s face to block light.

[00488] In some forms the perimeter of recess base 30420 defined by inner wall portions 30216 has a curved shape that mimics two fluidly connected orbital eye regions. In some forms, recess base 30420 may be shaped to mimic two non-fluidly connected orbital eye regions, the two regions separated by a raised region in the recess base 30420, or an extended section of second or third raised wall sections configured to separate the cavity 30400 into two regions.

[00489] In some forms, the perimeter shape of recess base 30420 is a kidney shape or cassian oval shape. In other forms the perimeter shape of the recess base 30420 substantially mimics the perimeter shape of eye component 30100 of part thereof.

[00490] The cavity 30400 may be characterised by a depth from the base portion 30420 of the cavity 30400 to the user-facing surface 30229 or user-facing surface wall portion 30215 of about 0.5mml cm to about 15 cm, about 1 cm to about 14 cm, about 1 cm to about 13 cm, about 1 cm to about 12 cm, about 1 cm to about 11 cm, about 1 cm to about 10 cm, about 2 cm to about 10 cm, about 3 cm to about 10 cm, about 4 cm to about 10 cm, about 5 cm to about 10 cm, about 6 cm to about 10 cm, about 7 cm to about 10 cm, or about 8 cm to about 10 cm. The depth of the recess may be configured by varying the height of the walls 30201 of face-contacting structure 30200.

[00491] In some regions of the recess, the depth will be about 0.5 cm to about 5 cm, about 0.5 cm to about 4 cm, about 0.5 cm to about 3 cm, about 0.5 cm to about 2 cm, in particular at the lateral edges of cavity 30400.

[00492] The face-contacting structure 30200 may further contact a portion of a nasal region of the user. In this regard, the face-contacting structure may overlap a nose bridge region or on a nose-ridge region of the user's face.

[00493] As seen in at least FIG 33, 37, 44 and 49, in some forms the centre of bottom region 30002 of eye mask 30000 includes a bridge portion 30700. Bridge portion 30700 is formed by the face-contacting structure 30200 and optionally, eye component 30100. In some forms, both eye component 30100 and face-contacting structure 30200 are shaped to include a nasal curve 30710, nasal curve 30710 curving around the anterior / posterior axis of the eye mask 30000 to accommodate the nasal bridge of a user. Nasal curve 30710 ensures the eye mask 30000 sits comfortably on the user’s nasal bone in use, rather than pressing against the softer cartilage region of the nose.

[00494] In one form of the present technology, the bridge portion 30700 is formed by curving the material such that it forms a parabola. In one form of the present technology, the bridge portion is characterised by a height to width ratio of about 1:1 to about 5:1, about 1:1 to about 4:1, about 1:1 to about 3:1, about 1:1 to about 2:1, or about 1.5:1 to about 2:1.

[00495] In one form, the bridge portion 30700 comprises third raised wall section 30270 and is connected to the eye component 30100 by an end of the first side wall portion 30216 of the wall 30201 distal from the user-facing surface wall portion 30215 of the wall 30201 and by an end of the second portion of the wall 30217 distal from the user-facing surface wall portion 30215 of the wall. In this form, a third raised wall portion is curved to conform to the nasal region of a user.

[00496] To improve comfort and light-blocking ability, bridge portion 30700 may comprise a compressive region 30720 between the face-contacting structure and the eye component 30100. In some forms where the bridge portion 30700 includes a third raised wall section 30270, first side wall portion 30216, user-facing portion 30215 and second side wall portion 30217 of third raised wall section 30270 are formed from material having a thickness such that when first and second side wall portions are connected to the posterior surface 30105 of eye component 30100, the compressive region 30720 is formed in the space defined by the first and second side wall portions 30216, 30217, user-facing portion 30215 and posterior surface 30105 of eye component 30100.

[00497] In one form, the compressive region is an air-pocket 30288 and the third raised wall section 30270 is deformable. In use, a force applied to the third raised wall section 30270, for example when the third raised wall section 30270 is pressed against the nasal region of a user, the air pocket 30288 is compressed, allowing the third raised wall section 30270 to conform to the user’s nasal region shape.

[00498] In other forms, the third raised wall section 30270 encases a compressible or deformable member, the member encased by the first side wall portion 30216, second side wall portion 30217, user-facing surface wall portion 30215 and the posterior surface of the eye component 30105. The compressible or deformable member may extend the length or part of the length of the third raised wall section 30270. In other forms the compressible or deformable member may be an open cell foam, closed cell foam, low density foam, memory foam, or an amount of gel or beads.

[00499] In one form, the third raised wall section 30270 or part thereof may be formed from a compressible material or combination of compressible materials to provide a comfortable engagement around the nasal region.

[00500] In one form, the third raised wall section 30270 further comprises a hinge feature 30730 in the form of a crease, channel, groove, fold or pleat that may act as a hinge when a force is applied to the bridge portion when the eye mask is in use, deforming the bridge portion. The hinge feature 30730 may extend across a length of the third raised wall section 30270, or one or more discreet regions of the third raised wall section 30270. In other forms, hinge feature 30730 may be integrally formed within the second side wall portion 30216 of the third wall portion 30270.

[00501] In one form, the third raised wall section 30270 is adapted to enable a change of the cross-sectional shape of the third raised wall section 30270 from a first undeformed crosssectional shape when the eye mask is not in use to a second deformed cross-sectional shape when the eye mask is in use and held against the user’s face under force from the positioning and stabilising structure, as seen in FIG. 45-48. In FIG. 45 and 46 a force is applied in direction X against user-facing surface wall portion 215. First and second side walls 30216 and 30217 each compress and the bridge portion 30700 forms a tight seal across the user’s nasal area, blocking light and providing a comfortable cushion surface to absorb changes in the user’s movement, for example when sleeping or lying with the mask on.

[00502] In some forms the compressive region 30720 is in the form of an air pocket 30288. In other forms, the compressive region 30720 may include a compressible or deformable member or material. The presence of an air-pocket or a compressible / deformable material in compressive region 30720 allows first and second side wall portions 30216, 30217 and / or user-facing portion 30215 of third raised wall section 30270 to compress into a range of different shapes depending on where pressure is imparted on the bridge portion 30700. This flexibility may cater for a wider range of different face shapes, and may also accommodate different sleeping positions and pressures placed on the eye mask from different directions.

[00503] In some forms, the compressible or deformable member is an open cell foam, closed cell foam, low density foam, memory foam, gel, beads or combinations thereof to provide comfort to the user and improve light blocking through the bridge portion 30700.

[00504] In one form, the bridge portion 30700 of the wall 30201 has a substantially “C” or “D” shaped cross section.

[00505] In one form, the bridge portion 30700 of the wall 30201 is adapted to enable a change of the cross-sectional shape of the bridge portion 30700 of the wall from a first undeformed cross-sectional shape when the eye mask is not in use to a second deformed cross-sectional shape when the eye mask is in use and held against the user’s face under force from the positioning and stabilising structure.

[00506] In some forms as shown in the cross-sectional FIG. 45 and FIG. 47, the bridge portion 30700 of the wall 30201 may further comprise one or more hinges 30730. Hinge 30730 may take the form of a channel, groove, fold or pleat in the wall 30201. In some forms, the hinge 30730 is formed in the second side wall portion 30217, proximate posterior surface 30105 of eye component 30100, such that pressure applied to the user-facing portion 30215 of wall 30201 results in second side wall portion 30217 deforming around hinge 30730, compressing air pocket 720. Hinge(s) 30730 may be located anywhere on wall 30201, and may be incorporated in a number of different locations on wall 30201 in order to facilitate specific folding patterns that optimise comfort and / or light blocking effectiveness.

[00507] In some forms of the present technology, a functional module 30500 is provided and is shown in FIG. 33, 37, 44, 49 and 50. Functional module 30500 is adapted to be received or partially received within recess 30300 of face-contacting structure 30200. In some forms, the functional module 30500 may be a light blocking and / or comfort module. In other forms, the functional module 30500 may include functional components such as a sensor component, a cooling component, an imaging component, a pivot component, a fragrance component, a massage component, or a combination thereof, the functional component housed within or attached to the functional module.

[00508] In one form the functional module comprises a non-user facing side 30501 and an opposing user-facing side 30502. In some forms the non-user facing side 30501 is convex, curving around a superior / inferior axis and the user-facing side 30502 is concave, curving around a superior / inferior axis. The concave side, user-facing side 30502 may comprise an outer usercontacting layer 30512 comprising a woven or non-woven textile, fabric composite, silicone pad, cushion region, fragrance delivery mechanism, sensor, cooling material, gripping material, light source or combination thereof.

[00509] In one form the user-contacting layer 30512 comprises a moisture-wicking fabric, anti-bacterial fabric, breathable fabric or combination thereof. In some forms the user-contacting layer 30512 further comprises a conductive material for use as an electrode comprising conductive silicone or conductive thread.

[00510] In one form the conductive material, silicon pad, gripping material or cushion region is incorporated onto the user-contacting layer as one or more shapes, patterns or discrete regions.

[00511] In some forms, the user-facing side 30502 of functional module 30500 is configured to contour to a forehead and / or supra-orbital region of the user in use and the non-user facing side is configured to contour to the recess base 30320 of face-contacting structure 30200. The functional module 30500 may therefore be formed such that it may be adjacent to and / or in contact with a forehead region of the user in use. In some forms, the functional module is shaped as an optionally curved or arcuate obolid or cuboid, a crescent shape, or a banana shape. In some forms, the functional module is tapered towards its ends. In some forms, the functional module is sized to substantially traverse the frontal bone of the user in use. In some forms, the functional module is sized to substantially traverse at least between the left and right supraorbital foramen of the user in use. In some forms, the functional module is flexible so as to conform to the user's head in use.

[00512] In some forms, user-facing side 30502 and non-user facing side 30501 of functional module 30500 are spaced apart and connected together at upper edges of each side 30501, 30502 by a first edge portion 30550 proximate top 30001 of eye mask 30000 and at lower edges of each side 30501, 30502 by an opposing second edge portion 30551 distal from top 30001 of eye mask 30000.

[00513] In some forms the functional module comprises a first end portion 30520, a second end portion 30530, and a middle portion 30525 flanked by the first end portion 30520 and opposing second end portion 30530, wherein the width of the functional module 30500 between the first edge portion 30550 and second edge portion 30551 is substantially the same across the first end portion 30520, second end portion 30530 and middle portion 30525. In other forms, the width of the functional module 30500 between the first edge portion 30550 and second edge portion 30551 is greater through the middle portion 30525 of functional module 30500 than the width through the first end portion 30520 and second end portion 30530.

[00514] In some forms the functional module comprises a first end portion 30520, a second end portion 30530, and a middle portion 30525 flanked by the first end portion 30520 and opposing second end portion 30530, wherein the depth of the functional module 30500 between the user-facing side 30502 and non-user facing side 30501 is substantially the same across the first end portion 30520, second end portion 30530 and middle portion 30525. In other forms, the depth of the functional module 30500 between the user-facing side 30501 and non-user facing side 30502 is greater through the middle portion 30525 of functional module 30500 than the depth through the first end portion 30520 and second end portion 30530.

[00515] In one form the depth of the functional module 30500 at one or more locations between the user-facing side 30501 and non-user facing side 30502 is greater than the distance between the base 30320 of the recess and the user-facing portion 30215 of the first raised wall section 30240 and / or second raised wall section 30250 around the perimeter of the recess 30300. In other forms the depth of the functional module 30500 and recess 30300 is such that when eye mask 30000 is in position, the user-contacting surface 30512 of function module 30500 and the user-contacting portion 30215 of face-contacting structure 30200 are level and abut the user’s face with equal pressure.

[00516] In some forms, increasing the depth of the function module 30500 compared to recess 30300 may improve the comfort of the eye mask, or may improve the light-blocking ability of the eye mask when the functional module is in position in recess 30300.

[00517] In some forms the first end portion 30520 and second end portion 30530 have one or more rounded edges or vertices. Rounded edges or vertices may helps to distribute the pressure felt by the user when eye mask 30000 is in use.

[00518] In one form the user-facing side 30502 of the functional module 30500 comprises an open cell foam, closed cell foam, low density foam, memory foam, gel, beads or combinations thereof adjacent to the user-contacting layer 30512.

[00519] In one form, the functional module 500 comprises a connector 30780 for engaging with a complementary connector 30785 or face-contacting structure 30200. In some forms, connector 30780 may be positioned on or within the non-user facing side 30501 of functional module 30500, or positioned on or within the first edge portion 30550 and second edge portion 30551 of functional module 30500.

[00520] Complementary connector 30785 may be positioned on or formed with the recess base 30320 of face-contacting structure 30200, or positioned on, or formed with first side wall portion 30216 of face-contacting structure 30200.

[00521] In some forms connector 30785 may be adhered to the posterior surface 30105 of eye component 30100, or placed in a cavity formed between anterior surface 30101 and posterior surface 30105 of eye component 30100, such that the connector 30785 is embedded within the eye component material. In other forms, connector 30785 may be adhered to the posterior surface 30205 of face-contacting component 30200, or placed in a cavity formed between anterior surface 30201 and posterior surface 30205 of face-contacting component 30200, such that the connector 30785 is embedded within the face-contacting component material at the base 30320 of recess 30300.

[00522] In one form the complementary connectors 30780 and 30785 may be any one or more of a mechanical connection, hook and / or loop material, friction fit connection, press-fit studs, conductive fasteners, spring release engagement, textile pockets or male / female connectors, magnets or combination thereof. In some forms the connector comprises two magnets with reverse polarity in a poka-yoke configuration.

[00523] In one form the functional module 30500 houses at least one of the following components selected from a sensor component, noise reduction component, pivot component, cooling component, imaging component, fragrance component, massage component, visual component, audio component, charging component, and power supply.

[00524] In one form the sensor component is selected from a electroencephalography (EEG) sensor, a photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor, electromyography (EMG) sensor, electrooculography (EOG) sensor, a pulse oximeter (SpO2) sensor, respiratory rate (RR) sensor, heart rate (HR) sensor, and a heart rate variability (HRV) sensor.

[00525] In one form, the functional module further comprises a magnetic charging port configured to engage with a magnetic cover.

[00526] In some forms, the functional module 30500 may be removably receivable within one or more pockets or straps formed on or connected to face-contacting structure 30200. A pocket or strap provides convenience to the user, as the eye mask may be washed without damaging the electrical components for example.

[00527] In some forms, the non-user facing side 30501 of functional module 30500 comprises a backing formed from a protective material. The protective material may be characterised by a hardness. Hardness refers to how much weight a material can support without deforming or breaking. The protective material may be characterised by a flexibility. Flexibility refers to how a material may be bent out of shape or compressed without breaking, and returned to their original shape. The hard backing acts to protect the components within the functional module. The protective material may be flexible.

[00528] In some forms, the protective material is characterised by a hardness. The hardness may be characterised by a Vickers, Brinell, Rockwell, Mohs, Knoop and / or Shore scale. For instance, the protective material may have a Shore hardness of about 60 to about 90. In other forms, the Shore hardness is about 65 to about 90, about 70 to about 90, about 75 to about 90, about 80 to about 90, or about 85 to about 90.

[00529] In some forms, the protective material is characterised by a Young's modulus. For instance, the material may have a Young's modulus of about 1 GPa to about 5 GPa. In other forms, the Young's modulus is about 1 GPa to about 4.5 GPa, about 1 GPa to about 4 GPa, about 1 GPa to about 3.5 GPa, about 1 GPa to about 3 GPa, about 1 GPa to about 2.5 GPa, or about 1 GPa to about 2 GPa.

[00530] In some forms, the protective material is characterised by flexural strength of about 30 MPa to about 300 MPa. In other forms the flexural strength is about 30 MPa to about 300 MPa, about 50 MPa to about 300 MPa, about 70 MPa to about 300 MPa, about 100 MPa to about 300 MPa, about 120 MPa to about 300 MPa, about 140 MPa to about 300 MPa, about 160 MPa to about 300 MPa, about 180 MPa to about 300 MPa, or about 200 MPa to about 300 MPa.

[00531] In some forms, the non-user facing side 30501 of functional module 30500 further comprises a fabric. The fabric may be adjacent to the backing. The fabric may be adjacent to an external facing side of the backing. The fabric provides a soft touch feel and comfort to the user. For example, elastomeric nonwoven fabric, knitted fabric, woven fabric, spacer fabric, or a combination thereof may be used.

[00532] In some forms, the user facing side 30502 of functional module 30500 comprises a user-contacting layer 30512. The user-contacting layer 30512 may be formed from a fabric, a fabric composite, or silicone cushion. These materials may provide a soft touch feel and comfort to the user in use. For example, elastomeric nonwoven fabric, knitted fabric, woven fabric, spacer fabric, or a combination thereof may be used.

[00533] In some forms, the fabric at the non-user facing side 30501 and the user-contacting layer 512 are contiguous or formed from a single material.

[00534] In some forms, the user-facing side 30502 comprises at least one electrode. In some forms, the user-contacting layer 30512 comprises at least one conductive material for use as an electrode. The electrode may be adhered to an external facing side of the user-contacting layer 30512 such that it may be in contact with the user's head when in use. Alternatively, the electrode may be printed on the user-contacting layer 30512.

[00535] The conductive material may be conductive silicone. Such silicone is compounded with conductive material such as carbon. Conductive silicone may be in molded with the silicone cushion, and forms an external surface of the concave side. In this regard, the conductive silicone is exposed such that it may contact the user's head in use. In use, the conductive silicone contacts with the user's head such that biological signals may be received and transmitted to the components, and / or output from the components may be transmitted to the user. Accordingly, the conductive silicone acts as a dry electrode when electrically connected to a component.

[00536] In some forms, the conductive material is formed as a strip. The strip may be positioned perpendicularly to a length of the user-contacting layer 30512. In some forms, the conductive material is characterised by a length which is substantially similar to the width of the user-facing side 30502. The conductive material may be positioned at regular intervals along the length of user-facing side 30502 of the functional module 30500. A component, for example a sensor, may be positioned between and electrically connected to the two conductive materials. This helps in ensuring reliability in the receiving and transmitting of data and / or signal.

[00537] In some forms, the conductive material is characterised by a width. In some forms, the width of the conductive material at a middle portion 30525 of the functional module 30500 is relatively smaller than the width of the conductive material at a first 30520 or second 30530 end portion. It was found that having a relative larger width for the conductive material at the ends allows for better contact with the user's head, and hence better receipt and transmission of signals.

[00538] In some forms, the width of the conductive material when adjacent to an end portion relative to the width of the conductive material when adjacent to a middle portion is about 2:1 to about 1.1:1. In other forms, the ratio is about 1.9:1 to about 1.1:1, about 1.8:1 to about 1.1:1, about 1.7:1 to about 1.1:1, about 1.6:1 to about 1.1:1, about 1.5:1 to about 1.1:1, about 1.4:1 to about 1.1:1, or about 1.3:1 to about 1.1:1.

[00539] In some forms, the conductive material comprises an electrical contact, the electrical contact extending inwardly towards a cavity of the functional module. The electrical contact may penetrate the user-contacting layer in order to make contact with a component housed within the functional module. In other forms, the electrical contact extending over either top or bottom side of the functional module and towards the convex side. In this way, the electrical contact skirts around the user-contacting layer in order to make contact with a component housed within the functional module. When multiple electrical contacts are present, they may be aligned parallel to each other so as to facilitate connection with the components. As the electrical contact is electrically connected to the conductive material, by connecting the electrical contact to the component, the component is electrically connected to the conductive material, and may thus receive and / or transmit signals from / to the user. For example, the electrical contact may be inserted into a mating port in a component for electrical connection.

[00540] In one form the functional module 30500 may comprise a cavity 30570 for housing at least one functional component, wherein the cavity comprises at least one functional component-retaining structure for engaging the component (not shown). The component -retaining structure is selected from a friction fit, snap fit, spring release fit, magnetic coupling, or a combination thereof.

[00541] In one form the user-contacting layer comprises a window for exposing a portion of the functional component housed within cavity 30570. The portion of the functional component may be an electrode of a sensor component. The electrode may be for contacting the user's skin in order to pick up a bioelectric signal from the user. The portion may be an outlet of a cooling component, for providing cooling means to the covered eyes of the user. Accordingly, the window may be appropriately sized.

[00542] In some forms, the cavity 30570 may comprise at least one component-retaining structure for engaging a component. The component may be detachable from the componentretaining structure, such that a particular component may be switched out for another component with different functionality, or to replace a component that have ceased to function or are at the end of its lifecycle. For example, the component (and / or the circuitry to which it is electrically coupled, if applicable) may be releasably attached to the component-retaining structure. To this end, an external surface of a component may form a friction fit with an internal surface of a wall of a component-retaining structure, or may form a snap fit, such as an annular snap fit or cantilever snap fit, with the wall or other internal or external part of the component-retaining structure, or may form a spring release fit. In some embodiments, a non-mechanical coupling, such as magnetic coupling, may be used to retain the component in respective retaining structure.

[00543] In some forms, the functional module is characterised by a weight about 40 g to about 200g. In other forms, the weight is about 40 g to about 180g, about 40 g to about 160g, about 40 g to about 150g, about 40 g to about 140g, about 40 g to about 130g, about 40 g to about 120g, about 40 g to about 110g, about 40 g to about 100g, about 40 g to about 90g, or about 40 g to about 80g.

[00544] The eye mask 30000 may comprise a positioning and stabilizing structure 30600 for retaining the eye mask 30000 on the user’s head. In some forms positioning and stabilizing structure 30600 comprises a strap 30610, the strap 30610 may be removably connectable to eye component 30100 and / or face-contacting structure 30200 at opposing ends 30611, 30612 of strap 30610. The positioning and stabilizing structure 30600 may be responsible for providing forces to counter gravitational forces of the eye component 30100 and / or face-contacting structure 30200 and may provide a retention force at least sufficient to hold the eye mask in contact with the user's face and / or to overcome the effect of the gravitational force on the eye mask. The retention force may be provided as a safety margin to overcome the potential effect of disrupting forces on the eye mask, such as from accidental interference with the eye mask, for example during sleep.

[00545] In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilising structure 30600 is provided that is configured in a manner consistent with being worn by a user while sleeping. In one example the positioning and stabilising structure 30600 comprises strap 30610, strap 30610 having a low profile, or low cross-sectional thickness, to reduce the perceived or actual bulk of the apparatus. In one form, strap 30610 has a rectangular cross-section. In one form the positioning and stabilising structure comprises at least one flat strap configured to attach to the eye component 30100 and / or face-contacting structure 30200 at ends 30611 and 30612. In some forms, the strap is formed from an elastic material in at least some areas.

[00546] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure 30600 is a strap 30610 having a width between a top edge 30601 and opposing bottom edge 30602 less than the width of the eye component between a top side 30001 of eye component 30100 and bottom side 30002 of eye component 30100.

[00547] For example, the positioning and stabilising structure may have a width of about 10 mm to about 100 mm, about 10 mm to about 90 mm, about 10 mm to about 80 mm, about 10 mm to about 70 mm, about 10 mm to about 60 mm, about 10 mm to about 50 mm, or about 10 mm to about 40 mm. The positioning and stabilising structure may have a thickness of about 1 mm to about 100 mm.

[00548] For example, the positioning and stabilising structure may have a length of about 100 mm to about 800 mm, about 100 mm to about 750 mm, about 100 mm to about 700 mm, about 100 mm to about 650 mm, about 100 mm to about 600 mm, about 100 mm to about 550 mm, about 100 mm to about 500 mm, about 100 mm to about 450 mm, or about 100 mm to about 400 mm.

[00549] The positioning and stabilising structure is attached to the eye component, and provides a resilient force such that the face-contacting structure is pressured against the user's face. For example, the positioning and stabilising structure may be attached to opposing ends 30290 / 30295 of the eye component and / or face-contacting structure.

[00550] The positioning and stabilising structure 30600 may be configured to sit above the user’s ears in use. In other forms, positioning and stabilising structure 30600 may overlay at least an otobasion superior region of the user's head in use. The positioning and stabilising structure 30600 may be configured to overlay an otobasion superior region and otobasion inferior region of the user's head in use. In this regard, the ears of the user may be covered. This may reduce noise to the user.

[00551] In one form of the present technology, strap 30610 may be constructed from a laminate of a fabric user-contacting layer 30640, a foam inner layer and a fabric outer layer 30645. In one form, the foam is porous to allow moisture, (e.g., sweat), to pass through the strap. Alternatively or in addition, the strap may comprise fiberfill (for example, polyester fiberfill), non-woven padding, foam padding, high density upholstery foam, compressed polyester, medium density polyurethane antimicrobial foam, high density polyurethane foam, dry fast open cell foam, or a combination thereof. Consequently, the strap 30610 is not too large and bulky to prevent the user from lying in the side sleeping position. In addition, the strap is extensible and soft.

[00552] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure 30600 comprises a strap 30610 that is extendable. For example, the strap may be configured in use to be in tension. In one form of the present technology as seen in FIG. 30, the positioning and stabilising structure 30600 may be formed of a number of components. In one form positioning and stabilising structure 30600 comprises a first strap 30620, a second strap 30630, a connector 30625 and an adjuster 30626. The connector 30625 joins the first strap 30620 and the second strap 30630 to form a full strap extending between the first end 30611 connected to a first attachment region 30290 of eye component 30100 and / or face contacting structure 30200 and the second end 30612 connected to a second attachment region 30295 of eye component 30100 and / or face contacting structure 30200 and may be a buckle or similar connection ring.

[00553] In some forms first strap 30620 and second strap 30630 are of differing lengths and an adjustor 30626 is mounted on the longer of the first 30620 and second 30630 straps. In FIG. 30, second strap 30630 is longer than first strap 30620 and adjuster 30626 is mounted on second strap 30630 and comprises a slide adjustment or strap adjuster buckle to enable the use to change the length of second strap 30630. In this form, first strap 30620 remains connected to second strap 30630 by connector 30625, but is unadjustable in length.

[00554] In one form of the present technology, one or more rigidizers may be provided to selectively alter the rigidity of the positioning and stabilising structure 30600. These may be attached to an external surface of the fabric, or inserted within the fabric layers. For example, the rigidizer may be laminated to or embedded between fabric layers. Thermoset yarns may be used to provide selective rigidification. The textile may also be rigidized at other parts of the positioning and stabilising structure 30600, such as along side sections that will contact the user’s face in use, for example using a coating, a laminate, a rigidized thread sewn into the textile, or any similar means.

[00555] In some forms of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure 30600 is bifurcated into a first section and a second section. The positioning and stabilising structure 30600 may be bifurcated at opposed ends thereof, or at a position adjacent to a temporal region of a user's head in use. The first and second bifurcated sections may jointly cradle a crown of the user's head in use. The first section may be movable relative to the second section. Alternatively, the first section and the second section is bifurcated at a fixed angle. The angle may be about 60° to about 120°.

[00556] When the positioning and stabilising structure is formed as a headband, the positioning and stabilising structure may be fabric material or composite material. The positioning and stabilising structure may be made breathable, so as to provide comfort to the user.

[00557] The positioning and stabilising structure may be formed from a material selected from perforated textile, breathable foam and / or fiber. Alternatively, a fabric composite material may be used. The composite material may be a laminated material.

[00558] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure is an elastic fabric material. For example, polyester, cotton, spandex, or nylon may be used, which may be further laminated with another fabric.

[00559] In one form of the present technology, the construction of the eye mask 30000 includes the forming and connection of eye component 30100 and face-contacting component 30200 together to create an eye covering portion of eye mask 301000, that is then held in position on a user’s face by positioning and stabilising structure 30600. One form of construction of eye mask 30000 can be seen in FIGs 38-43.

[00560] FIG. 38 and 39 show the formation of eye component In one form of the present technology, the construction of the eye mask 30000 includes the forming and connection of eye component 30100 and face-contacting component 30200 together to create an eye covering portion of eye mask 30000, that is then held in position on a user’s face by positioning and stabilising structure 30600. One form of construction of eye mask 30000 can be seen in FIGs 3843.

[00561] FIG.38 and FIG. 39 show the formation of eye component 30100 in one example, where a laminate of textile 30910 and foam 30920 form the anterior surface 30101 and posterior surface 30105 of eye component 30100. The laminate may be formed as a flat or curved member and may be thermoformed to create a member having an overall curvature, such that anterior surface 30101 is convex and posterior surface 30105 concave. Posterior surface 30105 may be configured to include further regions of layered or shaped foam that create curved profile or raised features on posterior surface 30105 such as seen in FIG. 40. In some forms, foam 30920 and textile 910 may be layered and shaped to create walls that create or define recesses 30300 and 30400 for example. Multiple layers of foam and / or textile may be used to create the profiles required.

[00562] In one form of the present technology, the eye-component 30100 is constructed from a composite material. The composite material may comprise an external fabric (or fabric composite) layer 30910 surrounding or mounted on one side of an inner foam 30920. The fabric layer may be thermoformed with the foam. For example, the fabric may be laminated to one or all sides of foam and placed in a 2-piece mold. Heat and pressure are then applied, which permanently molds the laminate into a semi-rigid product. The foam may be a memory foam, high density foam, low density foam, or a combination thereof. The foam may be selected from silicone, polyester, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyurethane, nylon, thermoplastic elastomer, polycarbonate-acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (PC-ABS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), latex, or a combination thereof. For example, memory foam may be used, which comprises polyurethane with chemicals that increase its viscosity and density. It is often referred to as "viscoelastic" polyurethane foam, or low-resilience polyurethane foam (LRPu).

[00563] An outer textile layer 30915 can be seen in FIG. 39 on the anterior surface 30101 of the eye component. In some forms, the textile layer 30915 may be connected around the periphery of the mask to the eye component and / or face-contacting structure, allowing the textile covering the anterior surface 30101 of eye-component 30100 to move freely. In some forms, outer textile layer 30915 is a smooth knit or stretch fabric and provides a flexible, crease-resistant outer surface that is both attractive and / or has light-blocking characteristics.

[00564] Construction of face-contacting structure 30200 in one form of the invention can be seen in FIG. 41, where face-contacting structure 30200 comprises a base material 30920 and a user-facing material 30925. Face-contacting structure 30200 is shaped to correspond or partially correspond to the curvature of the posterior surface 30105 of eye-component 30100. Thermoformed face-contacting structure 30200 comprises walls 30201 and may include compressive region 30720 around bridge portion 30700, walls 30201 sized and shaped to create nasal curve 30710 that extends over the user’s nasal region. In other forms, face-contacting structure 30100 may be formed from a single material, or may be formed with multiple layers and / or combinations of different materials as discussed further below.

[00565] In one form of the present technology face-contacting structure 30200 is created as a thermoformed textile or textile laminate component, or the face-contacting structure is constructed from a biocompatible material, e.g. silicone rubber. The face-contacting structure may be constructed from a soft, flexible, resilient material such as silicone. The face-contacting structure may be constructed from a breathable foam. The foam may have a thickness of about 1 cm to about 10 cm. The face-contacting structure may have a gradient of decreasing thickness towards an orifice configured to house an eye of the user in order to improve the breathability of the eye mask. The face-contacting structure may further be perforated to increase the breathability of the eye mask.

[00566] In other forms of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is constructed from a perforated, light blocking fabric material or composite material. The face-contacting structure may be made breathable, so as to provide comfort to the user. The face-contacting structure may be formed from a material selected from perforated textile, breathable foam and / or fiber. Fabrics that are naturally thick and dense may also be used, such as velvet, heavy cotton, or woven jacquard. These fabrics have a tighter weave or a heavier weight, which helps to minimise the amount of light that can penetrate the material. Alternatively, a fabric composite material may be used. The composite material may be a laminated material.

[00567] In some forms of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is formed from an elastic fabric material. For example, polyester, cotton, spandex, or nylon may be used, which may be further laminated with another fabric to increase it light blocking property. The fabric may be a non-woven, or may have moisture-wicking properties.

[00568] In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is constructed from a composite material. The composite material may comprise an external fabric (or fabric composite) layer surrounding an inner foam. The fabric layer may be thermoformed with the foam. For example, the fabric may be laminated to one or all sides of foam and placed in a 2-piece mold. Heat and pressure are then applied, which permanently molds the laminate into a semi-rigid product. The foam may be a memory foam, high density foam, low density foam, or a combination thereof. The foam may be selected from silicone, polyester, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyurethane, nylon, thermoplastic elastomer, polycarbonate-acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (PC-ABS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), latex, or a combination thereof. For example, memory foam may be used, which comprises polyurethane with chemicals that increase its viscosity and density. It is often referred to as "viscoelastic" polyurethane foam, or low-resilience polyurethane foam (LRPu).

[00569] The foam used for the eye mask 1000 may have a cell structure that reacts to body heat and weight, helping relieve pressure points, preventing pressure sores, and the like. The density and layer thickness of the foam may provide a different feel to the user. A high-density foam may have better compression ratings over the life of the eye mask. A lower-density one will generally have slightly shorter life due to the compression that takes place after repeated use. Cell structures can vary from very open to almost closed cell. The open cell foam structure includes a plurality of interconnected cells, wherein the windows between the adjacent cells are broken and / or removed. In contrast, a closed cell foam has substantially no interconnected cells and the windows between the adjacent cells are substantially intact. The tighter the cell structure, the less airflow through the foam. Breathable foam will have a more open cell structure, allowing higher airflow, better recovery, and lower odour retention.

[00570] In one form of the present technology, the foam comprises an open cellular structure. The cellular structure may be about 10 cells to about 40 cells per inch, about 15 cells to about 40 cells per inch, about 20 cells to about 40 cells per inch, about 25 cells to about 40 cells per inch, or about 30 cells to about 40 cells per inch.

[00571] In one form of the present technology, the foam is characterised by a hardness of about Shore-0 20 to about Shore-0 70.

[00572] In one form of the present technology, the foam is characterised by a density of about 1.2 pounds per cubic foot to about 2.0 pounds per cubic foot, about 1.2 pounds per cubic foot to about 1.8 pounds per cubic foot, or about 1.2 pounds per cubic foot to about 1.6 pounds per cubic foot.

[00573] FIG.42 shows a cross-section of the eye-component 30100 and face-contacting structure 30200 bonded together in one example of the technology. Textile 30910 and foam 30920 comprise the shaped eye-component 30100, bonded directly to shaped face-contacting structure 200 using heat-press bonding using a hot-melt adhesive for example. Other adhesives such as polymers based adhesives, thermoset adhesives, pressure adhesives for example may be used. The final bonding process between components and / or layers can retain detail and the required geometry into the final eye mask product.

[00574] In one form the eye component and face-contacting structure are connected together at a seam or connecting edge and the seam or connecting edge is biased towards the anterior side of the mask, to prevent the seam resting uncomfortably against the user’s face when eye mask 30000 is in use, or causing marks of indentations on the user’s skin due to the connecting edge. In some forms the seam of connecting edge is formed on the first or second side portion of the wall to prevent contact with the user’s face

[00575] 30100 in one example, where a laminate of textile 30910 and foam 30920 form the anterior surface 30101 and posterior surface 30105 of eye component 30100. The laminate may be formed as a flat or curved member and may be thermoformed to create a member having an overall curvature, such that anterior surface 30101 is convex and posterior surface 30105 concave. Posterior surface 30105 may be configured to include further regions of layered or shaped foam that create curved profile or raised features on posterior surface 30105 such as seen in FIG. 40. In some forms, foam 30920 and textile 30910 may be layered and shaped to create walls that create or define recess 30300 and cavity 30400 for example. Multiple layers of foam and / or textile may be used to create the profiles required.

[00576] In one form of the present technology, the eye-component 30100 is constructed from a composite material. The composite material may comprise an external fabric (or fabric composite) layer 30910 surrounding or mounted on one side of an inner foam 30920. The fabric layer may be thermoformed with the foam. For example, the fabric may be laminated to one or all sides of foam and placed in a 2-piece mold. Heat and pressure are then applied, which permanently molds the laminate into a semi-rigid product. The foam may be a memory foam, high density foam, low density foam, or a combination thereof. The foam may be selected from silicone, polyester, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyurethane, nylon, thermoplastic elastomer, polycarbonate-acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (PC-ABS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), latex, or a combination thereof. For example, memory foam may be used, which comprises polyurethane with chemicals that increase its viscosity and density. It is often referred to as "viscoelastic" polyurethane foam, or low-resilience polyurethane foam (LRPu).

[00577] An outer textile layer 30915 can be seen in FIG. 39 on the anterior surface 30101 of the eye component. In some forms, the textile layer 30915 may be connected around the periphery of the mask to the eye component and / or face-contacting structure, allowing the textile covering the anterior surface 30101 of eye-component 30100 to move freely. In some forms, outer textile layer 30915 is a smooth knit or stretch fabric and provides a flexible, crease-resistant outer surface that is both attractive and / or has light-blocking characteristics.

[00578] Construction of face-contacting structure 30200 in one form of the invention can be seen in FIG. 41, where face-contacting structure 30200 comprises a base material 30920 and a user-facing material 30925. Face-contacting structure 30200 is shaped to correspond or partially correspond to the curvature of the posterior surface 30105 of eye-component 30100. Thermoformed face-contacting structure 30200 comprises walls 30201 and may include compressive region 30720 around bridge portion 30700, walls 30201 sized and shaped to create nasal curve 30710 that extends over the user’s nasal region. In other forms, face-contacting structure 30100 may be formed from a single material, or may be formed with multiple layers and / or combinations of different materials as discussed further below.

[00579] In one form of the present technology face-contacting structure 30200 is created as a thermoformed textile or textile laminate component, or the face-contacting structure is constructed from a biocompatible material, e.g. silicone rubber. The face-contacting structure may be constructed from a soft, flexible, resilient material such as silicone. The face-contacting structure may be constructed from a breathable foam. The foam may have a thickness of about 1 cm to about 10 cm. The face-contacting structure may have a gradient of decreasing thickness towards an orifice configured to house an eye of the user in order to improve the breathability of the eye mask. The face-contacting structure may further be perforated to increase the breathability of the eye mask.

[00580] In other forms of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is constructed from a perforated, light blocking fabric material or composite material. The face-contacting structure may be made breathable, so as to provide comfort to the user. The face-contacting structure may be formed from a material selected from perforated textile, breathable foam and / or fiber. Fabrics that are naturally thick and dense may also be used, such as velvet, heavy cotton, or woven jacquard. These fabrics have a tighter weave or a heavier weight, which helps to minimise the amount of light that can penetrate the material. Alternatively, a fabric composite material may be used. The composite material may be a laminated material.

[00581] In some forms of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is formed from an elastic fabric material. For example, polyester, cotton, spandex, or nylon may be used, which may be further laminated with another fabric to increase it light blocking property. The fabric may be a non-woven, or may have moisture-wicking properties.

[00582] In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is constructed from a composite material. The composite material may comprise an external fabric (or fabric composite) layer surrounding an inner foam. The fabric layer may be thermoformed with the foam. For example, the fabric may be laminated to one or all sides of foam and placed in a 2-piece mold. Heat and pressure are then applied, which permanently molds the laminate into a semi-rigid product. The foam may be a memory foam, high density foam, low density foam, or a combination thereof. The foam may be selected from silicone, polyester, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyurethane, nylon, thermoplastic elastomer, polycarbonate-acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (PC-ABS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), latex, or a combination thereof. For example, memory foam may be used, which comprises polyurethane with chemicals that increase its viscosity and density. It is often referred to as "viscoelastic" polyurethane foam, or low-resilience polyurethane foam (LRPu).

[00583] The foam used for the eye mask 30000 may have a cell structure that reacts to body heat and weight, helping relieve pressure points, preventing pressure sores, and the like. The density and layer thickness of the foam may provide a different feel to the user. A high-density foam may have better compression ratings over the life of the eye mask. A lower-density one will generally have slightly shorter life due to the compression that takes place after repeated use. Cell structures can vary from very open to almost closed cell. The open cell foam structure includes a plurality of interconnected cells, wherein the windows between the adjacent cells are broken and / or removed. In contrast, a closed cell foam has substantially no interconnected cells and the windows between the adjacent cells are substantially intact. The tighter the cell structure, the less airflow through the foam. Breathable foam will have a more open cell structure, allowing higher airflow, better recovery, and lower odour retention.

[00584] In one form of the present technology, the foam comprises an open cellular structure. The cellular structure may be about 10 cells to about 40 cells per inch, about 15 cells to about 40 cells per inch, about 20 cells to about 40 cells per inch, about 25 cells to about 40 cells per inch, or about 30 cells to about 40 cells per inch.

[00585] In one form of the present technology, the foam is characterised by a hardness of about Shore-0 20 to about Shore-0 70.

[00586] In one form of the present technology, the foam is characterised by a density of about 1.2 pounds per cubic foot to about 2.0 pounds per cubic foot, about 1.2 pounds per cubic foot to about 1.8 pounds per cubic foot, or about 1.2 pounds per cubic foot to about 1.6 pounds per cubic foot.

[00587] FIG.42 shows a cross-section of the eye-component 30100 and face-contacting structure 30200 bonded together in one example of the technology. Textile 30910 and foam 30920 comprise the shaped eye-component 30100, bonded directly to shaped face-contacting structure 30200 using heat-press bonding using a hot-melt adhesive for example. Other adhesives such as polymers based adhesives, thermoset adhesives, pressure adhesives for example may be used. The final bonding process between components and / or layers can retain detail and the required geometry into the final eye mask product.

[00588] In one form the eye component and face-contacting structure are connected together at a seam or connecting edge and the seam or connecting edge is biased towards the anterior side of the mask, to prevent the seam resting uncomfortably against the user’s face when eye mask 30000 is in use, or causing marks of indentations on the user’s skin due to the connecting edge. In some forms the seam of connecting edge is formed on the first or second side portion of the wall to prevent contact with the user’s face

[00589] A further form of an eye mask of the invention is eye mask 40000 seen in FIG. 52 -52C and 53.

[00590] Fig. 52 indicates three vertical cross sectional views A-A, B-B and C-C through eye mask 40000 that are shown in FIG 52A, 52B and 52C respectively. Each of the cross-sectional views demonstrates the changing structure and dimensions of the eye mask from a central cross section A-A that bisects the bridge portion forming nasal curve 40710 along the lower edge of eye mask 40000.

[00591] Eye mask 40000 includes a face-contacting structure 40200 connected to or contiguous with the posterior surface 40105 of eye component 40100 and provides a user-facing surface 40229 for direct connection to a user’s face. Since it is in direct contact with the user’s face, the shape and configuration of the face-contacting structure 40200 and user-facing surface 40229 can have a direct impact on the effectiveness and comfort of the eye mask. The facecontacting structure is configured to minimise or remove gaps between the user-facing surface 40229 and the user’s face, reducing undesirable light ingress into the user’s eyes.

[00592] Air pocket 40288 is visible in the centre of the bridge portion and provides a compressive region to increase user comfort. In the form shown at FIG. 52A functional module 40500 is received within recess 40300 formed by eye component 40100 and face-contacting structure 40200. In the form shown, recess 40300 has a depth at 40160 such that the underlying eye component and face-contacting structure directly adjacent the base of recess 40300 is at its thinnest, in some forms 3mm - 7mm as a combined thickness. The shape of recess 40300 in this position is configured to receive the widest part of functional module 40500, which is retained within recess 40300 by connection means as discussed above.

[00593] Fig.52B shows a vertical cross section B-B through the eye mask 40000 off-set from the center of the mask towards one of the lateral edges. At B-B, the shape of functional module 40500 changes to comprise a ridge 40501, and to accommodate ridge 40501 the shape of recess 40300 changes, becoming narrower in height with an increases thickness of the eye component 40100 and face-contacting structure 40200 at 40160 adjacent the recess base, when compared to the equivalent position at the center of the mask. Air pocket 40288 is still visible at this crosssection, but is reduced in size compared to the central cross- section A-A.

[00594] FIG. 52C shows cross section C-C, proximate a lateral edge of eye mask 40000. Functional module 40500 tapers in shape as it extends towards the lateral edges of eye mask 40000, and eye component 40100 and face-contacting structure 40200 are correspondingly thicker at 40160 as recess 40300 becomes shallower to accommodate the changing shape of functional module 40500. Eye mask 40000 through cross section C-C no longer comprises the air pocket 40288 and eye component 40100 and face-contacting structure 40200 provide a solid region that compresses against the user’s cheeks to block light.

[00595] FIG 53. Shows mask 40000 with functional module 40500 connected within recess 40300. In the form shown, functional module 40500 includes multiple ports 40591, such as USB ports for charging the battery of the functional module, or for data transfer. Ports 40591 are centrally located on the functional module 40591, and preferably on the inferior side of the functional module when the eye mask is in position on the user’s face. This ensures that the user is unable to charge the functional module when connected to the module at the same time as wearing the mask without cables passing between the user-facing side of the mask and the user’s face. This discourages charging while wearing the eye mask, which can be a safety risk due to the device overheating and potentially causing a fire risk. 5.18 ANATOMY 5.18.1 Anatomy of the face Auricle: The whole external visible part of the ear. (nose) Bony framework: The bony framework of the nose comprises the nasal bones, the frontal process of the maxillae and the nasal part of the frontal bone. (nose) Cartilaginous framework: The cartilaginous framework of the nose comprises the septal, lateral, major and minor cartilages. Glabella: Located on the soft tissue, the most prominent point in the midsagittal plane of the forehead. Greater alar cartilage: A plate of cartilage lying below the lateral nasal cartilage. It is curved around the anterior part of the naris. Its posterior end is connected to the frontal process of the maxilla by a tough fibrous membrane containing three or four minor cartilages of the ala. Sagittal plane: A vertical plane that passes from anterior (front) to posterior (rear). The midsagittal plane is a sagittal plane that divides the body into right and left halves. 5.18.2 Anatomy of the skull Orbit: The bony cavity in the skull to contain the eyeball. Nasion: The intersection of the frontal bone and the two nasal bones, a depressed area directly between the eyes and superior to the bridge of the nose. Nasal bones: The nasal bones are two small oblong or rounded oblong bones, varying in size and form in different individuals; they are placed side by side at the middle and upper part of the face, and form, by their junction, the "bridge" of the nose. Maxilla: The maxilla forms the upper jaw and is located above the mandible and below the orbits. The frontal process of the maxilla projects upwards by the side of the nose, and forms part of its lateral boundary. - 108 - Frontal bone: The frontal bone includes a large vertical portion, the squama frontalis, corresponding to the region known as the forehead. Zygomatic bones: The face includes two zygomatic bones, located in the upper and lateral parts of the face and forming the prominence of the cheek.

Claims

- 109 -6 CLAIMS1. An eye mask comprising: an eye component positionable over at least orbital regions of a face of a user and configured to block light to eyes of the user, the eye component having an anterior surface and opposing posterior surface;a face-contacting structure connected to the posterior surface of the eye component, the face-contacting structure comprising a user-facing surface on a user-facing side of the face-contacting structure, and a recess and a cavity formed within the user-facing surface, a perimeter of each of the recess and cavity defined by a wall extending at least from a base portion of each of the recess and cavity to the user-facing surface; anda positioning and stabilising structure configured to provide a force to hold the eye component and face-contacting structure of the eye mask in an in-use position on the user’s head during use of the eye mask; anda functional module removably housed within the recess.

2. The eye mask of claim 1, wherein the wall comprises a first side wall portion extending from the perimeter of the base portion of the recess to the user-facing surface and a second side wall portion opposing the first side wall portion, the first and second side wall portions are spanned by a user-facing surface wall portion.

3. The eye mask of claim 1 or 2, wherein the eye component has an overall curvature such that the anterior surface of the eye component is substantially convex and the posterior surface of the eye component is substantially concave.

4. The eye mask of claim 3, wherein the face-contacting structure has an overall curvature complementing the substantially concave posterior surface of the eye component.

5. The eye mask of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the recess is sized to substantially traverse at least between a left and right supraorbital foramen and / or span a central region of a frontal bone of a user's head in use.

6. The eye mask of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the cavity is sized to substantially traverse at least between left and right zygomatic regions of a user’s head in use.

7. The eye mask of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the wall of the recess comprises a first raised wall section extending laterally along a top edge of the recess, proximate a top edge of the eye mask, and a second raised wall section spaced apart from the first raised wall- 110 -section and extending laterally along a bottom edge of the recess, distal from the top edge of the eye mask.

8. The eye mask of claim 7, wherein the first raised wall section comprises a first side wall portion and a second side wall portion opposing the first side wall portion, the first and second side wall portions spanned by a user-facing surface wall portion.

9. The eye mask of claim 7, wherein the second raised wall section comprises a first side wall portion and a second side wall portion opposing the first side wall portion, the first and second side wall portions spanned by a user-facing surface wall portion.

10. The eye mask of claim 9, wherein the first raised wall section extends from a base portion of the recess a greater distance than the second raised wall section extends from the base portion of the recess, such that the user-facing surface wall portion of the first raised wall section abuts the face of the user when the mask is in use.

11. The eye mask of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein a depth from the base portion of the recess to the user-facing surface of the wall extending at least from a base portion of the recess to the user-facing surface is greater near a centre of the recess compared to this depth at the lateral edges of the recess.

12. The eye mask of any one of claims 1 to 11 wherein a combined thickness of the eye component and face-contacting structure between the base portion of the recess and an adjacent anterior surface of the eye component is in the range of 3mm - 50mm.

13. The eye mask of claim 12, wherein the combined thickness extends from 3mm - 10mm at or near a centre of the recess, and 10mm - 30mm at or near the lateral sides of the eye mask.

14. An eye mask of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein a wall of the face-contacting structure encloses an air pocket.

15. The eye mask of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein a base portion of the recess comprises one or more connectors for engaging with a complementary connector on the functional module.

16. The eye mask of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein a first side wall portion of the wall around the base portion of the recess comprises one or more connectors for engaging with a complementary connector on the functional module.

17. The eye mask of claims 15 or 16, wherein the one or more connectors for engaging with a complementary connector on the function module is a magnetic connector.- Ill -18. The eye mask of claim 17, wherein the magnetic connector is in the form of a magnetic or partially magnetic scaffold or cage.

19. The eye mask of any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein a base portion of the recess or a first side wall side portion of the wall around the base portion of the recess comprises a sensor pad.

20. The eye mask of any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the eye component and face-contacting structure are connected together at a seam or connecting edge and the seam or connecting edge is not positioned on the user-facing surface of the face-contacting structure.

21. An eye mask, comprising:an eye component positionable over at least orbital regions of a face of a user and configured to block light to eyes of the user, the eye component having an anterior surface and opposing posterior surface;a face-contacting structure connected to the posterior surface of the eye component, the face-contacting structure comprising a user-facing surface on a user-facing side of the face-contacting structure and a recess and / or cavity formed within the user-facing surface, the perimeter of the recess and / or cavity defined by a wall extending at least from a base portion of the recess and / or cavity to the user-facing surface, the base portion of the recess and / or cavity positionable in use over a supra orbital and / or frontal bone region and / or orbital regions of the face of the user;a positioning and stabilising structure configured to provide a force to hold the eye component and face-contacting structure of the eye mask in an in-use position on the user’s face during use of the eye mask;a functional module removably connectable to the base portion of the recess; andwherein the face-contacting structure further comprises a bridge portion positionable over a nasal region of a user’s face, the bridge portion connected to the eye component and shaped to define a compressive region between the face-contacting structure and the eye component.

22. The eye mask of claim 21, wherein the wall of the recess and / or cavity comprises a first raised wall section extending laterally along a top edge of the recess and / or cavity, proximate a top edge of the eye mask, and a second raised wall section spaced apart from the first raised wall section and extending laterally along a bottom edge of the recess and / or cavity, distal from the top edge of the eye mask.- 112 -23. The eye mask of claim 22, wherein the first raised wall section is more resiliently flexible than the second raised wall section.

24. The eye mask of claim 22 or 23, wherein the eye mask comprises a recess positionable in use over a supra orbital and / or frontal bone region and the first raised wall section extends from a base portion of the recess a greater distance than the second raised wall section extends from the base portion of the recess, such that the user-facing surface wall portion of the first raised wall section abuts the face of the user when the mask is in use.

25. The eye mask of any one of claims 21-24, wherein the eye mask comprises a recess and a cavity, and the face-contacting structure comprises walls defining a perimeter of base portions of each of the recess and the cavity, the walls each having a user-facing surface wall portion spanning a first side wall portion extending from the user-facing surface wall portion towards the eye component and an opposing second side wall portion extending from the user-facing surface wall portion towards the eye component, the first side wall portion of each wall defining the perimeter of a base portion of each of the recess and cavity, the base portion of each of the recess and cavity formed by the face-contacting structure, the base portion of the recess positionable in use over the supra orbital and / or frontal bone region of the face of the user and the base portion of the cavity positionable in use over orbital regions of the face of the user.

26. The eye mask of any one of claims 21 - 25, wherein the bridge portion comprises a third raised wall section comprising a first side wall portion and a second side wall portion opposing the first side wall portion, the first and second side wall portions spanned by a userfacing surface wall portion, the third raised wall section proximate a lower edge of the eye mask.

27. The eye mask of claim 26, wherein the third raised wall section comprises a compressive region defined by the first side wall portion, second side wall portion, user-facing surface wall portion and the posterior surface of the eye component.

28. The eye mask of claim 27, wherein the compressive region is an air-pocket.

29. The eye mask of claim 27, wherein the third raised wall section comprises a compressible or deformable member encased by the first side wall portion of the wall, second side wall portion of the wall, user-facing surface wall portion of the wall and the posterior surface of the eye component.

30. The eye mask of claim 29, wherein the compressible or deformable member is an open cell- 113 -foam, closed cell foam, low density foam, memory foam, gel or beads.

31. The eye mask of any one of claims 26 to 30, wherein the third raised wall section of the wall further comprises a hinge feature in the form of a crease, channel, groove, fold or pleat that may act as a hinge when a force is applied to the bridge portion when the eye mask is in use, deforming the bridge portion.

32. The eye mask of any one of claims 26 to 31, wherein the third raised wall section is adapted to enable a change of a cross-sectional shape of a bridge portion region of the wall from a first undeformed cross-sectional shape when the eye mask is not in use to a second deformed cross-sectional shape when the eye mask is in use and held against the face of the user under force from the positioning and stabilising structure.

33. The eye mask of any one of claims 21 to 32, wherein the bridge portion is characterised by a height to width ratio of about 1:1 to about 5:1.

34. An eye mask, comprising:an eye component positionable over at least orbital regions of a face of a user and configured to block light to eyes of the user, the eye component having a first anterior surface and opposing posterior surface;a face-contacting structure connected to the posterior surface of the eye component, the face-contacting structure comprising a user-facing surface on a user-facing side of the face-contacting structure and a recess and a cavity formed within the user-facing surface, a perimeter of the recess and cavity defined by a wall extending at least from a base portion of the recess and cavity to the user-facing surface, the base portion of the recess and cavity positionable in use over a supra orbital and / or frontal bone region and / or orbital regions of the face of the user;a positioning and stabilising structure configured to provide a force to hold the eye component and face-contacting structure of the eye mask in an in-use position on the user’s head during use of the eye mask; anda functional module removably connected to the base portion of the recess, the functional module arcuated and sized to substantially traverse at least between the left and right supraorbital foramen and / or span a central region of the frontal bone of a user's head in use.- 114 -concave side, the concave side comprising a user-contacting layer comprising a textile, fabric composite, silicone pad, cushion region, fragrance delivery mechanism, sensor, cooling material, gripping material, massage component, light source or combination thereof.

36. The eye mask of claims 34 or 35, wherein the functional module comprises a cavity for housing at least one component, wherein the cavity comprises at least one componentretaining structure for engaging the component.

37. The eye mask of any one of claims 34 to 36, wherein the functional module comprises a connector for engaging with a complementary connector in or on the recess of the eye mask.

38. The eye mask of claim 37, wherein the connector is a magnetic connector configured to engage a corresponding magnetic connector within or on a surface of the recess.

39. The eye mask of any one of claims 34 to 38, wherein the functional module houses at least one of the following components selected from a sensor component, noise reduction component, pivot component, cooling component, imaging component, comfort component, massage component, visual component, audio component, charging component, and power supply.

40. The eye mask of claim 39 wherein the functional module has a depth representing a distance between a concave side and a convex side of the functional module, the depth of the functional module being greater than the distance between the base portion of the recess and the user-facing surface wall portion of the wall around the perimeter of the recess.

41. The eye mask of any one of claims 34-40, wherein the functional module comprises one or more ports located on the concave side or one or more side faces of the functional module.

42. The eye mask of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the positioning and stabilising structure comprises at least one rigidiser.

43. The eye mask according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the eye mask further comprises a noise reduction component configured to fit over and / or at least partially inside respective ears of the user.

44. The eye mask according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the noise reduction component is contiguous with the eye component.

45. The eye mask according of claim 44, wherein the noise reduction component comprises a noise-cancellation component.- 115 -one or more speakers for generating sound, such as white noise, to assist with sleep.

47. The eye mask according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the noise-cancellation component comprises active noise-cancellation electronics.

48. The eye mask according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the eye component is pivotable between an open position and a closed position, wherein in use, in the open position, the user's eyes are uncovered, and in the closed position, the user's eyes are covered.

49. The eye mask according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the eye mask further comprises a sensor module embedded, attached or otherwise disposed therein and / or thereon for measuring user data and / or equipment-related data for screening, monitoring and / or diagnostic purposes.

50. The eye mask according to claim 49, wherein the sensor module is integrated with the eye component and / or the face-contacting structure.

51. The eye mask according to claim 49 or 50, wherein the sensor module is integrated with the positioning and stabilising structure.

52. The eye mask according to any one of claims 49-51, wherein the sensor is integrated in the functional module.

53. The eye mask according to any one of claims 49 to 52, wherein the sensor module is configured to sense EEG, PPG, EMG, EOG, or a combination thereof.

54. The eye mask according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the eye component further comprises cooling means.

55. The eye mask according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the eye component is formed from a material selected from perforated textile, breathable foam, elastic fabric material, or a combination thereof.

56. The eye mask according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the face-contacting structure is formed from a material selected from a perforated textile, breathable foam, elastic fabric material, or a combination thereof.

57. The eye mask according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the positioning and stabilising structure is formed from a material selected from a perforated textile, elastic fabric material, or a combination thereof.- 117 -Upon received as blank

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