Distribution system

Abstract

Different users of head-mounted devices have different needs for vision correction. It can be desirable to provide a system to determine a corrective lens that is most suitable for a given user. A dispenser can include a plurality of different lenses that provide different types of vision correction. The dispenser can provide an appropriate one of the lenses, and the user can use the lens with the head-mounted device during an experience session. During the experience session, the user can verify that the lens is satisfactory.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 060,589, filed August 3, 2020, entitled “DISPENSING SYSTEM,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This specification relates in its entirety to distribution systems, including distribution systems for components used with head-mounted devices. Background Technology

[0004] Users can wear head-mounted devices to display visual information within their field of view. The head-mounted device can be used as a virtual reality (VR) system, an augmented reality (AR) system, and / or a mixed reality (MR) system. Users can observe outputs provided by the head-mounted device, such as visual information displayed on a monitor. The monitor may optionally allow users to observe the environment outside the head-mounted device. Other outputs provided by the head-mounted device may include speaker output and / or haptic feedback. Users can further interact with the head-mounted device by providing input for processing by one or more components of the device. For example, while the device is mounted on a user's head, the user can provide haptic input, voice commands, and other inputs. Attached Figure Description

[0005] Some features of this subject matter are set forth in the appended claims. However, for illustrative purposes, several embodiments of this subject matter are illustrated in the following figures.

[0006] Figure 1 An exemplary environment in which an HMD demonstration system can be implemented, according to one or more specific implementations, is shown.

[0007] Figure 2 A flowchart is shown of an exemplary process for an input device according to one or more specific implementations.

[0008] Figure 3 A flowchart of an exemplary process for a distributor, according to one or more specific implementations, is shown.

[0009] Figure 4 A flowchart of an exemplary process for a head-mounted device according to one or more specific implementations is shown.

[0010] Figure 5 An exemplary network environment in which an HMD demonstration system can be implemented, according to one or more specific implementations, is shown.

[0011] Figure 6An exemplary electronic device that can be used in an HMD demonstration system according to one or more specific implementations is shown.

[0012] Figure 7 A top view of a head-mounted device and lens device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0013] Figure 8 Some embodiments of the present disclosure are shown, in which an image is installed. Figure 7 Lens equipment Figure 7 A top view of the head-mounted device.

[0014] Figure 9 A block diagram of a head-mounted device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0015] The specific embodiments shown below are intended to describe various configurations of the subject matter and are not intended to represent the only configuration in which the subject matter can be practiced. The accompanying drawings are incorporated herein and form part of the detailed description. The detailed description includes specific details intended to provide a thorough understanding of the subject matter. However, it will be clear and apparent to those skilled in the art that the subject matter is not limited to the specific details shown herein and can be practiced without such specific details. In some cases, well-known structures and components are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuring the concepts of the subject matter.

[0016] Head-mounted devices, such as head-mounted displays, headphones, goggles, smart glasses, heads-up displays, etc., can perform a range of functions managed by components (e.g., sensors, circuitry, and other hardware) included in the wearable device.

[0017] The visual output features of a head-mounted device can be provided in a manner adapted to the user's vision, including visual impairments and / or vision correction needs. For example, a head-mounted device may include corrective lenses that allow the user to correctly view the visual output features of the head-mounted device, or lenses that can be combined with such corrective lenses. To allow a given head-mounted device to be used by different users, corrective lenses may be provided as separate modules that are attachable, removable, and / or interchangeable with other corrective lenses. Thus, any given user can correctly view the visual output features when using a head-mounted device with an appropriate set of corresponding corrective lenses.

[0018] It may be desirable to allow users to determine which lenses among various options are suitable for use with the head-mounted device, to be provided with appropriate lenses, to try out the lenses, and to make a purchase if satisfied. When offered in combination, this capability facilitates the user's decision-making process when searching for a head-mounted device and corresponding components.

[0019] Different users of head-mounted devices have different vision correction needs. Systems and methods can be provided to determine the most suitable corrective lens for a given user. Such systems and methods may include an input device for determining which corrective lenses from a variety of existing corrective lenses are suitable for a given user. A distributor can provide one selected lens from a plurality of lenses for the user to use with the head-mounted device. The head-mounted device can then operate with the lens, including any appropriate adjustments based on the lens selection.

[0020] The following is for reference Figures 1 to 9 These and other implementation schemes are discussed. However, those skilled in the art will readily understand that the detailed descriptions given herein with respect to the accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting.

[0021] Figure 1 An exemplary HMD demonstration system 10 for providing a selected lens arrangement for user use is illustrated according to one or more embodiments. However, not all depicted components are available in all embodiments, and one or more embodiments may include additional or different components compared to those shown in the figures. Variations in the arrangement and type of these components may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims set forth herein. Additional components, different components, or fewer components may be provided.

[0022] The HMD demonstration system 10 can be established by an entity implementing the lens distribution system of the present invention (such as a retail store, school, company, hotel, cruise ship, stadium, museum, etc.). The facility 2 including the HMD demonstration system 10 can encompass all or part of one or more structures, such as one or more retail store buildings, one or more school buildings, one or more office buildings, etc. Figure 1 In the diagram, facility 2 is shown as a retail store. The retail store can provide an inventory of interactive devices (e.g., head-mounted devices) and / or components (e.g., lenses), allowing users to decide whether to purchase one of the devices and / or components.

[0023] like Figure 1 As shown, the HMD demonstration system 10 may include an input station 20, a distribution station 40, a demonstration station 60, and / or a point-of-sale station 80. It should be understood that stations may be combined, for example, by providing the input station 20 and the distribution station 40 as a single station 12. It should also be understood that one or more stations may be omitted and / or located elsewhere (e.g., outside of facility 2). It should also be understood that one or more additional stations may be included.

[0024] Input station 20 can facilitate the determination of a user's need for corrective lenses. For example, input station 20 may include a device for determining which lenses among a variety of lenses are suitable for use with a head-mounted device.

[0025] In some examples, input station 20 may include input device 22 that provides a user interface for inputting information about a given user. Input device 22 may include, for example, a touchscreen, keyboard, mouse, microphone, camera, etc. Input device 22 may present selectable elements (e.g., from a menu) or another input format (e.g., text, handwriting, etc.). Input device 22 may also include output components such as a display, speaker, haptic device, etc. Input device 22 may be operated by a user or another person to input vision information related to the user's vision condition and / or need for vision correction. Such information may include diagnoses, test results, prescriptions, and / or user preferences. The user may optionally input their own information, making that information not necessarily available to another person.

[0026] In some examples, input station 20 may include the user's own user device 24 and / or interaction with that user device. The user device may include a telephone, tablet, computer, laptop, watch, wearable device, head-mounted device, or other electronic device. Information relating to the user's vision condition and / or need for vision correction may be stored on or accessible by the user device 24. Such information may include diagnoses, test results, prescriptions, and / or user preferences. The user may operate user device 24 to authorize the transmission of such information within the HMD presentation system 10.

[0027] In some examples, input station 20 may include a detector 32 for detecting the corrective lenses and / or the user's condition. Such detection can be performed within facility 2, so that the user does not need to possess vision correction information before entering facility 2. Figure 1 As shown, detector 32 can be operated to analyze existing corrective lenses, eyeglasses, contact lenses, or other eyeglasses. Reference lens 30 may be user-owned and provide the appropriate vision correction needed and / or desired by the user. Detector 32 may include a camera 34 that captures an image of a reference pattern 36 when viewed through reference lens 30. Based on the image captured by camera 34 and the known reference pattern 36, detector 32 can determine the effectiveness of reference lens 30 and thus determine the type of reference lens 30 present. Such detection can be used to determine information related to a user's visual condition and / or need for vision correction.

[0028] It should be understood that input station 20 may include other devices, such as detectors that measure one or more characteristics of the user's own eyes to determine the user's visual acuity and / or need for vision correction. It should also be understood that multiple input types may be combined to verify and / or confirm visual information from one type with another.

[0029] like Figure 1As further shown, the dispensing station 40 may include a dispenser 42 that contains a plurality of sample lens groups 200 and dispenses one or more selected sample lens groups from the sample lens groups 200. The sample lens groups 200 may include multiple types corresponding to different types of optical effects and / or vision correction. For example, each sample lens group in the sample lens group 200 may have spherical, cylindrical, and / or another type of correction. Differences in correction between the plurality of sample lens groups 200 may include variations in correction type, diopter, correction axis, etc. Various correction combinations may be combined for some or all of the sample lens groups in the sample lens group 200. Each correction type or combination of correction types can be identified by lens type. For example, each sample lens group in the sample lens group 200 may have a known type of correction based on lens identity. Corresponding identifiers (such as stock units (“SKUs”)) may be assigned for reference.

[0030] The selection from the sample lens set 200 can be based on information from the input station 20. If the input station 20 determines the desired type of correction, the corresponding sample lens set 200 can be further determined. For example, one of a plurality of sample lens sets 200 can be selected from the allocation station 40. This selection can be based on determining which sample lens set 200 best matches the information collected at the input station 20 (e.g., diagnosis, test results, prescription, and / or user preferences).

[0031] It should be understood that any number of sample lens sets 200 can be provided by the distribution station 40. However, the number of sample lens sets 200 provided at the distribution station 40 may still be limited and therefore have discrete corrective capabilities, or any two sample lens sets 200 may be separated by differences in corrective capabilities. It should also be understood that sample lens sets 200 can be provided for experiential purposes and do not need to precisely match the user's vision correction needs. Therefore, the number of sample lens sets 200 available for experiential purposes may be less than the number of user lens sets available for purchase, production, and / or delivery to the user. For example, sample lens sets 200 at the distribution station 40 may be provided for experiential purposes, but the user may be offered the ability to purchase custom lenses and / or lenses from a larger inventory, where different lenses are separated by minor differences in vision correction capabilities.

[0032] like Figure 1As shown, the distribution station 40 may include a distributor 42 that includes sample lens sets 200 and provides the ability to distribute one or more sample lens sets from sample lens sets 200 to a user. For example, distributor 42 may identify any given sample lens set in sample lens sets 200 based on an identifier corresponding to information received from input station 20 or otherwise associated with that information. Distributor 42 may distribute a selected sample lens set from sample lens sets 200 through one or more mechanisms of various kinds. For example, distributor 42 may indicate to the user which sample lens sets in sample lens sets 200 will be used for a given user. By a further example, distributor 42 may move a sample lens set from sample lens sets 200 to a location accessible to the user, or otherwise make such a sample lens set 200 available. Corresponding mechanisms may include actuators, belts, arms, and / or trays for moving sample lens sets 200 and / or presenting the sample lens set to the user. By a further example, distributor 42 may mount a selected sample lens set from sample lens sets 200 onto head-mounted device 100. Therefore, dispenser 42 can dispense both sample lens group 200 and head-mounted device 100 for user use.

[0033] Additionally or alternatively, other accessories and / or components may be provided for use with the head-mounted device 100. For example, dispenser 42 or another dispenser and / or stock source may dispense or otherwise provide user-specific and / or customized accessories and / or components. Such accessories and / or components may include light seals, head-mounting elements, and / or other equipment fitted to the user. Additionally or alternatively, optional equipment for use with the head-mounted device 100 may be provided based on input and / or user selection.

[0034] It should be understood that the dispenser 42 may provide more than one sample lens group 200 for user experience. For example, multiple sample lens groups 200 representing the closest approximation range of the desired correction may be provided for user experience. The user may then be given the opportunity to experience each of the allocated sample lens groups 200 with the head-mounted device 100 and determine which sample lens group is preferred.

[0035] like Figure 1As further shown, the HMD demonstration system 10 may also include a demonstration station 60. The demonstration station 60 may include space and / or equipment to facilitate user operation of the head-mounted device 100 (e.g., a sample head-mounted device). The demonstration station 60 may provide the head-mounted device if it was not previously provided (e.g., at the distribution station 40). At the demonstration station 60, a user can operate the head-mounted device 100 using the sample lens group 200 and / or any other equipment as part of a demonstration to experience such equipment. The user may be provided with the ability to select one or more sample lens groups 200 and / or another piece of equipment.

[0036] like Figure 1 As further shown, the HMD demonstration system 10 may also include a point-of-sale station 80. The point-of-sale station 80 may include a point-of-sale device 82, which can be operated by a user or another person to execute a transaction based on one or more sample lens sets 200 and / or head-mounted device 100 selected from the sample lens sets 200. For example, when a user has selected a sample lens set 200 or another device, the user and / or another person may place an order for or otherwise purchase the sample lens set 200, head-mounted device 100, and / or the other device. The generation of the order and / or purchase may be based on the determination made by the input station 20 and / or the user's selection.

[0037] It should be understood that the sample lens set 200 and / or head-mount device 100 ordered and / or purchased may differ from the sample lens set and / or head-mount device experienced by the user at demonstration station 60. For example, upon completion of the demonstration at demonstration station 60, the user may return the sample lens set 200 and / or head-mount device 100 to the source of the sample lens set and / or head-mount device (e.g., distribution station 40). Optionally, the sample lens set 200 and / or head-mount device 100 may be handled and / or cleaned by staff to prepare it for use by other users. Different lens sets (e.g., user lens sets) and / or head-mount devices may be offered, ordered, and / or delivered to the user when the user places an order and / or purchases them. As discussed herein, the ordered and / or purchased user lens set may differ from the lens set experienced, as the ordered and / or purchased lens set may be more representative of the corrective needs identified for the user. This can be achieved by providing a wider array of user lens sets than is available for experience.

[0038] Figure 2 A flowchart of an exemplary process 300 for an input device according to one or more specific implementations is shown. For purposes of explanation, this document primarily refers to... Figure 1 The process 300 is described using the input station 20. However, the process 300 is not limited to... Figure 1The input station 20, and one or more blocks (or operations) of process 300, may be performed by one or more other components, devices, and / or stations. The device of input station 20 is also presented as an exemplary device, and the operations described herein can be performed by any suitable device. Further for illustrative purposes, the blocks of process 300 are described herein as occurring sequentially or linearly. However, multiple blocks of process 300 may occur in parallel. Furthermore, the blocks of process 300 need not be performed in the order shown, and / or one or more blocks of process 300 need not be performed and / or may be replaced by other operations.

[0039] Process 300 may begin when the lens type is determined at the input station (302), as described herein. Such determination may be based on user input, record retrieval, and / or direct detection of the user and / or existing corrective lenses. The input station may then transmit an indication of the lens type for assigning an appropriate lens (304). This transmission may include the determined information and / or the identity of the lens corresponding to the determined information.

[0040] Figure 3 A flowchart of an exemplary process 400 for a dispenser according to one or more specific implementations is shown. For purposes of explanation, this document primarily refers to... Figure 1 The process 400 is described by the distributor 42 of the distribution station 40. However, the process 400 is not limited to... Figure 1 The allocation station 40, and one or more blocks (or operations) of process 400, may be performed by one or more other components, devices, and / or stations. The distributor 42 of allocation station 40 is also presented as an exemplary device, and the operations described herein can be performed by any suitable device. Further, for illustrative purposes, the blocks of process 400 are described herein as occurring sequentially or linearly. However, multiple blocks of process 400 may occur in parallel. Furthermore, the blocks of process 400 need not be performed in the order shown, and / or one or more blocks of process 400 need not be performed and / or may be replaced by other operations.

[0041] Process 400 may begin when the dispensing station receives an indication of lens type (402), as described herein. The dispenser may then dispense a lens based on the lens type (404). Optionally, the dispenser may mount the lens onto a head-mounted device (406), and both the lens and the head-mounted device may be dispensed together.

[0042] Figure 4 A flowchart of an exemplary process 500 for a head-mounted device according to one or more specific embodiments is shown. For purposes of explanation, this document primarily refers to... Figure 1 The process 500 is described using a head-mounted device 100. However, the process 500 is not limited to... Figure 1The head-mounted device 100, and one or more frames (or operations) of process 500, may be performed by one or more other components, devices, and / or stations. The head-mounted device 100 is also presented as an exemplary device, and the operations described herein can be performed by any suitable device. Further for illustrative purposes, the frames of process 500 are described herein as occurring sequentially or linearly. However, multiple frames of process 500 may occur in parallel. Furthermore, the frames of process 500 need not be performed in the order shown, and / or one or more frames of process 500 need not be performed and / or may be replaced by other operations.

[0043] Process 500 may begin when the head-mounted device receives an indication of the lens type (502), as described herein. The head-mounted device may output an image based on the lens type (504). For example, the display for viewing the image through the lens may be modified based on known characteristics and properties of the lens. Additionally or alternatively, the head-mounted device may detect user characteristics based on the lens type (506). For example, sensors may perform detection and / or measurement based on the view through the lens. By providing the head-mounted device with an indication of the lens type, sensors can be calibrated to interpret the view through the lens.

[0044] Figure 5 An exemplary network environment in which an HMD demonstration system 10 can be implemented, according to one or more embodiments, is shown. However, not all depicted components are available in all embodiments, and one or more embodiments may include additional or different components compared to those shown in the figures. Variations in the arrangement and type of these components may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims set forth herein. Additional components, different components, or fewer components may be provided.

[0045] The network environment includes various devices, access point 18, network 16, and server 14. Access point 18 and / or network 16 can, for example, various devices communicatively couple to server 14 and / or to each other. In one or more embodiments, network 16 can be an interconnection network of devices that may include the Internet or be communicatively coupled to the Internet.

[0046] Server 14 may include one or more server devices that facilitate the provision of services to users, such as records related to the user's vision information, content for use by head-mounted device 100, and / or order fulfillment systems. In one or more embodiments, one or more service provider servers 108 may include and / or be communicatively coupled to one or more servers.

[0047] Input device 22, user equipment 24, detector 32, distributor 42, head-mounted device 100, and / or point-of-sale device 82 may include communication interfaces for communicating with each other. Such communication can be direct and / or indirect (e.g., via access point 18, network 16, and / or server 14). The communication interface may include one or more wired or wireless communication interfaces, such as one or more Universal Serial Bus (USB) interfaces, Near Field Communication (NFC) radios, Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) radios, Bluetooth radios, Zigbee radios, cellular radios, and / or other radios. Figure 1 For example, electronic device 102 is described as a tablet computer device.

[0048] Figure 6 Exemplary electronic device 600, according to one or more embodiments, for use in an HMD demonstration system is illustrated. Electronic device 600 may correspond to input device 22, user device 24, detector 32, dispenser 40, head-mounted device 100, and / or point-of-sale device 82. However, not all depicted components are usable in all embodiments, and one or more embodiments may include additional or different components compared to those shown in the figures. Variations in the arrangement and type of these components may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims set forth herein. Additional components, different components, or fewer components may be provided.

[0049] Electronic device 600 may include host processor 602, memory 604, one or more input / output devices 606, communication interface 608 and / or one or more sensors 612 and other components.

[0050] The host processor 602 (also referred to as an application processor or processor) may include suitable logic components, circuitry, and / or code capable of processing data and / or controlling the operation of the electronic device 600. In this regard, the host processor 602 may be enabled to provide control signals to various other components of the electronic device 600. The host processor 602 may also control data transfer between the various parts of the electronic device 600. Additionally, the host processor 602 may enable the implementation of an operating system or otherwise execute code to manage the operation of the electronic device 600. The memory 604 may include suitable logic components, circuitry, and / or code capable of storing various types of information, such as received data, generated data, code, and / or configuration information. The memory 604 may include, for example, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, and / or magnetic storage devices.

[0051] Communication interface 608 may include suitable logic, circuitry, and / or code for implementing wired or wireless communication with other electronic devices such as access point 18, network 16, server 14, and / or HMD demonstration system 10. Communication interface 608 of any given device can provide a communication link with the communication interface of any other device within HMD demonstration system 10. Such communication can be direct or indirect (e.g., through an intermediary). Communication interface 608 may include one or more of, for example, Bluetooth, NFC, Zigbee, WLAN, and USB communication interfaces, or generally, any communication interface.

[0052] One or more sensors 612 may include, for example, one or more image sensors, one or more depth sensors, one or more infrared sensors, one or more thermal (e.g., infrared) sensors, and / or any sensor that can generally be used to detect and / or measure a lens or a user.

[0053] In one or more embodiments, one or more of the host processor 602, memory 604, one or more sensors 612, communication interface 608 and / or one or more portions thereof may be implemented in software (e.g., subroutines and code), in hardware (e.g., application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), controllers, state machines, gated logic components, discrete hardware components or any other suitable device), and / or a combination of both.

[0054] Now refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 The assigned lens or lens device can be installed for use with the head-mounted device.

[0055] According to some implementation schemes, such as Figure 7 As shown, the head-mounted device 100 includes a housing 110 that is worn on a user's head. The housing 110 can be positioned in front of the user's eyes to provide information within the user's field of vision.

[0056] The housing 110 can be supported on a user's head using a securing element 120. The securing element 120 can be wrapped around or extended along opposite sides of the user's head. The securing element 120 may optionally include earphones for wrapping around or otherwise engaging or resting on the user's ears. It should be understood that other configurations can be applied to secure the headset 100 to the user's head. For example, one or more straps, bands, straps, caps, or other components may be used in addition to or as alternative to the components exemplified for the headset 100. As another example, the securing element 120 may include multiple components to engage the user's head. The securing element 120 may extend from the housing 110 and / or the light seal 190.

[0057] Although the light seal 190 is schematically shown to have a specific size and shape, it should be understood that the size and shape of the light seal 190 (particularly on the inner side of the light seal 190) may be adapted to the size and shape of the face of a user wearing the head-mounted device 100. For example, the inner side may have a shape that generally matches the contour of the user's face around the user's eyes. The inner side may have one or more features that allow the light seal 190 to conform to the user's face to enhance comfort and prevent light from entering the light seal 190 at the point of contact with the face. For example, the inner side may have a flexible, soft, elastic, and / or compliant structure.

[0058] When a user wears the head-mounted device 100, a light seal 190 can be placed against the user's face and / or head. The light seal 190 may include a base that provides structural support for one or more other components of the light seal 190. The light seal 190 may define an internal space through which light can pass, thereby providing a view of the display 140 to the user wearing the head-mounted device. This view can be enhanced by preventing light from entering from the external environment and instead entering the light seal 190.

[0059] Given the various head and facial shapes that different users may have, it may be necessary to provide a customizable and adjustable light seal 190 so that the head-mounted device 100 is positioned and oriented relative to the user's face and head during use. Therefore, the light seal 190 can be selected and / or adjusted based on a given user. To accommodate different users, the light seal 190 can be interchanged with other light seals. It should be understood that the light seal 190 can be dispensed by a lens dispenser, or by a different dispenser for demonstration purposes. The housing 110 and / or the light seal 190 may provide a nose pad or another feature to rest on the user's nose.

[0060] The housing 110 may provide a structure around its peripheral region to support any internal components of the housing 110 at the assembly location of those internal components. For example, the housing 110 may enclose and support various internal components (including, for example, integrated circuit chips, processors, memory devices, and other circuitry) to provide computational and functional operation for the head-mounted device 100, as further discussed herein. Although several components are shown within the housing 110, it should be understood that some or all of these components may be located anywhere within or on the head-mounted device 100. For example, one or more of these components may be positioned within the fixing element 120 of the head-mounted device 100.

[0061] Housing 110 may include and / or support one or more cameras 130. Cameras 130 may be positioned on or near the outer side 112 of housing 110 to capture images of views outside the head-mounted device 100. As used herein, the outer side of a portion of the head-mounted device is the side facing away from the user and / or towards the external environment. The captured images may be used to display to the user or stored for any other purpose. Each of the cameras 130 may be movable along the outer side 112. For example, a track or other guide may be provided to facilitate movement of the camera 130 within that track or other guide.

[0062] The head-mounted device 100 may include a display 140 that provides visual output for a user wearing the head-mounted device 100 to view. One or more displays 140 may be positioned on or near the inside 114 of the housing 110. As used herein, a portion of the inside 114 of the head-mounted device is the side facing the user and / or away from the external environment.

[0063] Display 140 may transmit light from the physical environment (e.g., captured by a camera module) for viewing by a user. Such display 140 may include optical properties, such as lenses for vision correction based on incident light from the physical environment. Additionally or alternatively, display 140 may serve as a display within the user's field of view to provide information. This information may be provided by excluding or removing (e.g., covering) the physical environment. As used herein, physical environment refers to the physical world that people can interact with without the assistance of electronic systems. In contrast, computer-generated reality refers to a fully or partially simulated environment that people interact with via electronic systems. Examples of computer-generated reality include virtual reality, mixed reality, and augmented reality. Electronic systems enabling people to interact with various computer-generated reality environments include head-mounted displays, projection-based systems, head-up displays (HUDs), vehicle windshields with integrated display capabilities, windows with integrated display capabilities, displays shaped like lenses designed for placement on a person's eyes (e.g., similar to contact lenses), headphones / earpieces, speaker arrays, input systems (e.g., wearable or handheld controllers with or without haptic feedback), smartphones, tablets, and desktop / laptop computers. Head-mounted systems may have integrated opaque displays and one or more speakers. Alternatively, head-mounted systems may be configured to receive external opaque displays (e.g., smartphones). Head-mounted systems may have transparent or semi-transparent displays instead of opaque displays.

[0064] Each display 140 can be adjusted to align with the user's corresponding eye. For example, each display 140 can be moved along one or more axes until the center of each display 140 is aligned with the center of the corresponding eye. Therefore, the distance between the displays 140 can be set based on the user's interpupillary distance (IPD). IPD is defined as the distance between the centers of the pupils of the user's eyes.

[0065] A pair of displays 140 may be mounted to housing 110 and spaced apart. The distance between the displays 140 may be designed to correspond to a user's IPD (Increase in Display Device). This distance may be adjustable to accommodate different IPDs of different users who may be wearing the head-mounted device 100. For example, any one or both of the displays 140 may be movably mounted to housing 110 to allow the displays 140 to move laterally or translate to increase or decrease the distance. Any type of manual or automatic mechanism may be used to allow the distance between the displays 140 to be adjustable. For example, the displays 140 may be mounted to housing 110 via a sliding rail or guide that allows manual or electronically actuated movement of one or more display elements of the displays 140 to adjust the distance between the displays.

[0066] Additionally or alternatively, the display element may be moved to a target location based on the desired visual effect corresponding to the user's perception of the display 140 when it is positioned at the target location. The target location may be determined based on the user's focal length and / or the system's optics. For example, the user's eyes and / or the system's optics may determine how the visual output of the display 140 will be perceived by the user. The distance between the display 140 and the user's eyes and / or the distance between the display 140 and one or more optics may be changed to place the display 140 at, within, or outside a corresponding focal length. Such adjustments may be made to suit a particular user's eyes, corrective lenses, and / or desired optical effects.

[0067] The head-mounted device 100 may include a sensor 170. The sensor 170 may be positioned and arranged to detect user characteristics, such as facial features. For example, such a user sensor may perform facial feature detection, facial motion detection, facial recognition, eye tracking, pupil measurement, user emotion detection, user sentiment detection, voice detection, etc.

[0068] like Figure 7 As further shown, the sample lens group 200 may be provided separately from and / or in combination with the head-mounted device 100. The sample lens group 200 may be or include one or more lenses 250 for providing corrective vision capabilities. It should be understood that, in the case of using multiple lenses, the lenses 250 of the sample lens group 200 may be provided together or separately (e.g., for combination).

[0069] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the connector facilitates the coupling of the sample lens assembly 200 to the head-mounted device 100 in a relative position and orientation that aligns the lens 250 of the sample lens assembly 200 with respect to the display 140 of the head-mounted device 100 for user viewing. The head-mounted device 100 and the sample lens assembly 200 can be securely and releasably coupled together. For example, the HMD connector 180 can releasably engage the lens connector 280. One or more mechanisms of various kinds can be provided to secure the components to each other. For example, mechanisms such as locks, latches, snaps, sliders, channels, screws, buckles, threads, magnets, pins, interference (e.g., friction) fits, rolling mills, snap pins, fused materials, fabrics, knitted fabrics, braided fabrics, and / or combinations thereof can be included to couple and / or secure the head-mounted device 100 and the sample lens assembly 200 together. The components can remain secured to each other until an optional release mechanism is actuated. A release mechanism can be provided for user access.

[0070] like Figure 8 As further shown, the sample lens assembly 200 can be optionally coupled to the housing 110 while being positioned within or near the optical seal 190. It should be understood that the connector allows the sample lens assembly 200 to be securely held in any position within the user's field of view where the lens 250 is placed.

[0071] Although lens 250 can be inserted between the user and display 140, it can also be inserted between sensor 170 and the user. Therefore, sensor 170 can perform detection and / or measurement based on the view through lens 250. By providing an indication of the lens type to head-mounted device 100, sensor 170 can be calibrated to interpret the view through lens 250. For example, the image captured by sensor 170 may be slightly distorted by lens 250. Given that the lens type of lens 250 is known, sensor 170 can be calibrated accordingly to properly perform the sensor's detection and / or measurement.

[0072] Now for reference Figure 9 The components of the head-mounted device can be operatively connected to provide the performance described herein. Figure 9 A simplified block diagram of an exemplary head-mounted device 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. It should be understood that the components described herein may be provided on one, some, or all of the housing, light seal, and / or head-fixing elements. It should be understood that additional components, different components, or fewer components than those shown may be utilized within the scope of this disclosure.

[0073] like Figure 9As shown, the head-mounted device 100 may include a controller 178 (e.g., control circuitry) having one or more processing units, which include or are configured to access a memory 182 on which instructions are stored. These instructions or computer programs may be configured to perform one or more of the operations or functions described with respect to the head-mounted device 100. The controller 178 may be implemented as any electronic device capable of processing, receiving, or transmitting data or instructions. For example, the controller 178 may include one or more of the following: a microprocessor, a central processing unit (CPU), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), or a combination of such devices. As described herein, the term "processor" is intended to cover a single processor or processing unit, multiple processors, multiple processing units, or one or more other suitably configured computing elements.

[0074] Memory 182 may store electronic data that can be used by head-mounted device 100. For example, memory 182 may store electrical data or content such as, for example, audio and video files, documents and applications, device settings and user preferences, timing and control signals or data for various modules, data structures, or databases. Memory 182 may be configured as any type of memory. By way of example only, memory 182 may be implemented as random access memory, read-only memory, flash memory, removable memory, or other types of storage elements or combinations of such devices.

[0075] The head-mounted device 100 may also include a display 140 for displaying visual information of a user. The display 140 may provide visual (e.g., image or video) output. The display 140 may be or include an opaque, transparent, and / or translucent display. The display 140 may have a transparent or translucent medium through which light representing an image is directed to the user's eyes. The display 140 may utilize digital light projection, OLED, LED, uLED, liquid crystal on silicon, laser scanning light source, or any combination of these technologies. The medium may be an optical waveguide, holographic medium, optical combiner, optical reflector, or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, a transparent or translucent display may be configured to selectively become opaque. Projection-based systems may employ retinal projection techniques that project graphic images onto a person's retina. Projection systems may also be configured to project virtual objects onto a physical environment, such as as holograms or on a physical surface. The head-mounted device 100 may include an optical sub-assembly configured to assist in optically adjusting and correctly projecting image-based content displayed by the display 140 for close-range viewing. Optical sub-assemblies may include one or more lenses, mirrors, or other optical devices.

[0076] The head-mounted device 100 may include one or more sensors 170, as described herein. The head-mounted device 100 may also include one or more other sensors. Such sensors can be configured to sense virtually any type of feature, such as, but not limited to, images, pressure, light, touch, force, temperature, position, motion, etc. For example, sensors may be photodetectors, temperature sensors, light or optical sensors, atmospheric pressure sensors, humidity sensors, magnets, gyroscopes, accelerometers, chemical sensors, ozone sensors, particle counting sensors, and so on. As another example, sensors may be biosensors used to track biometric characteristics such as health and activity levels. Other user sensors may perform facial feature detection, facial motion detection, facial recognition, eye tracking, user emotion detection, user sentiment detection, voice detection, etc. Sensors may include cameras capable of capturing image-based content of the external world.

[0077] The head-mounted device 100 may include an input / output component 186, which may include any suitable components for connecting the head-mounted device 100 to other devices. Suitable components may include, for example, audio / video jacks, data connectors, or any additional or alternative input / output components. The input / output component 186 may include buttons, keys, or other features that can function as a keyboard for user operation.

[0078] The head-mounted device 100 may include a microphone 188 as described herein. The microphone 188 may be operatively connected to a controller 178 for detecting sound levels and for communication of the detected sounds for further processing, as further described herein.

[0079] The head-mounted device 100 may include a speaker 194 as described herein. The speaker 194 may be operatively connected to a controller 178 to control speaker output, including sound levels, as further described herein.

[0080] The head-mounted device 100 may include a communication interface 192 for communicating with one or more servers or other devices using any suitable communication protocol. For example, the communication interface 192 may support Wi-Fi (e.g., the 802.11 protocol), Ethernet, Bluetooth, high-frequency systems (e.g., 900MHz, 2.4GHz, and 5.6GHz communication systems), infrared, TCP / IP (e.g., any protocol used in each layer of the TCP / IP layer), HTTP, BitTorrent, FTP, RTP, RTSP, SSH, any other communication protocol, or any combination thereof. The communication interface 192 may also include an antenna for transmitting and receiving electromagnetic signals.

[0081] The head-mounted device 100 may include a battery 160 that can charge and / or power components of the head-mounted device 100. The battery 160 may also charge and / or power components connected to the head-mounted device 100.

[0082] Therefore, embodiments of this disclosure are adapted to different users of head-mounted devices with varying needs for vision correction. Systems and methods can be provided to determine the most suitable corrective lens for a given user. Such systems and methods may include an input device for determining which corrective lenses from a variety of existing corrective lenses are suitable for a given user. A distributor can provide one selected lens from a plurality of lenses for the user to use with the head-mounted device. The head-mounted device can then operate with the lens, including any appropriate adjustments based on the lens selection.

[0083] For convenience, various examples of aspects of this disclosure are described below as terms. These examples are provided by way of illustration and do not limit the subject matter.

[0084] Clause A: A system comprising: a station, the station including: an input device for determining a lens type for a user; a distributor for distributing one of a plurality of lens groups based on the lens type; and a station communication interface configured to transmit an indication of the one of the plurality of lens groups; a head-mounted device including: a display; an HMD connector configured to receive the one of the plurality of lens groups; and an HMD communication interface configured to receive the indication of the lens type from the station communication interface.

[0085] Clause B: A station comprising: a detector for measuring characteristics of a reference lens; and a distributor comprising a plurality of sample lens groups, the distributor being configured to distribute one of the plurality of sample lens groups based on the characteristics of the reference lens, wherein each of the plurality of sample lens groups includes a lens connector configured to engage an HMD connector of a head-mounted device, the head-mounted device including a display visible through the one of the plurality of sample lens groups.

[0086] Clause C: A system comprising: an input device for determining a lens type for a user; and a dispenser including a plurality of sample lens groups, the dispenser being configured to dispense one of the plurality of sample lens groups based on the lens type, the sample lens group being usable with a sample head-mounted device; and a point-of-sale device configured to generate an order for a purchasable head-mounted device and one of the plurality of purchasable lens groups based on the lens type, the number of purchasable lens groups being greater than the number of sample lens groups of the dispenser.

[0087] One or more of the foregoing clauses may include one or more of the following features. It should be noted that any of the following clauses may be combined with each other in any combination and placed in the respective independent clauses, such as clauses A, B, or C.

[0088] Clause 1: The display is configured to output an image based on the indication of one of the plurality of lens groups.

[0089] Clause 2: The head-mounted device further includes a sensor configured to detect the user's characteristics through the one of the plurality of lens groups based on the indication of the one of the plurality of lens groups.

[0090] Clause 3: The input device is a detector used to measure the characteristics of the reference lens.

[0091] Clause 4: The detector includes: a reference pattern; a camera configured to capture an image of the reference pattern through the reference lens; and a processor configured to: compare the image with the reference pattern; and generate the indication of the lens type based on the comparison of the image with the reference pattern.

[0092] Clause 5: The input device includes a user interface for receiving an indication of the lens type, wherein the lens type corresponds to a prescription for the user.

[0093] Clause 6: The input device is operatively connected to the station communication interface to receive an indication of the lens type from an external device, wherein the lens type corresponds to a prescription for the user.

[0094] Clause 7: The station is configured to mount one of the plurality of lens groups at the HMD connector of the head-mounted device.

[0095] Clause 8: The detector includes a camera and a reference pattern, wherein the camera is configured to capture an image of the reference pattern through the reference lens.

[0096] Clause 9: The detector further includes a processor configured to compare the image with the reference pattern.

[0097] Clause 10: The dispenser is further configured to dispense a plurality of sample lens groups having different optical properties from each other in the sample lens group, wherein one of the plurality of sample lens groups in the sample lens group is the sample lens group that provides vision correction most similar to that provided by the reference lens.

[0098] Clause 11: The dispenser is further configured to dispense the head-mounted device.

[0099] Clause 12: The dispenser is further configured to mount one of the plurality of sample lens groups at the HMD connector of the head-mounted device.

[0100] Clause 13: The input device is operatively connected to a station communication interface to receive an indication of the lens type from an external device, wherein the lens type corresponds to a prescription for the user.

[0101] Clause 14: Each of the sample lens groups includes a lens connector configured to engage an HMD connector of the sample head-mounted device, the sample head-mounted device including a display visible through the one of the sample lens groups.

[0102] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the various exemplary blocks, modules, elements, components, methods, and algorithms described herein can be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of both. To illustrate this interchangeability between hardware and software, the various exemplary blocks, modules, elements, components, methods, and algorithms have been generally described above in terms of functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends on the specific application and the design constraints imposed on the system as a whole. Those skilled in the art can implement the described functionality in different ways for each specific application. Various components and blocks can be arranged differently (e.g., in different orders or divided in different ways) without departing from the scope of the subject matter.

[0103] It should be understood that the specific order or hierarchy of the boxes in the process disclosed in this invention is an example of an exemplary method. Based on design preferences, it should be understood that the specific order or hierarchy of the boxes in the process may be rearranged or all shown boxes may be executed. Any box within these boxes may be executed simultaneously. In one or more embodiments, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Furthermore, the division of system components in the above embodiments should not be construed as requiring such division in all embodiments, and it should be understood that the program components and system may generally be integrated together in a single software product or packaged into multiple software products.

[0104] As used in this specification and any claim of this patent application, the terms "base station," "receiver," "computer," "server," "processor," and "memory" refer to electronic devices or other technical devices. These terms exclude persons or groups of persons. For the purposes of this specification, the terms "display" or "being displayed" mean displaying on an electronic device.

[0105] In this invention, personal information data can be used to benefit users. For example, health and fitness data can be used to provide insights into a user's overall health status or as positive feedback for individuals using technology to pursue health goals. This disclosure envisions that entities responsible for collecting, analyzing, disclosing, transmitting, storing, or otherwise using such personal information data will comply with established privacy policies and / or privacy practices. Furthermore, the purpose of this disclosure is to manage and process personal information data to minimize the risk of unintentional or unauthorized access or use.

[0106] As used herein, the phrase "at least one of" following a series of items separated by the terms "and" or "or" modifies the list as a whole, not each member of the list (i.e., each item). The phrase "at least one of" does not require selection of at least one of each of the listed items; rather, it allows for the inclusion of at least one of any one item and / or at least one of any combination of items and / or at least one of each item. For example, the phrases "at least one of A, B, and C" or "at least one of A, B, or C" respectively refer to only A, only B, or only C; any combination of A, B, and C; and / or at least one of each of A, B, and C.

[0107] The predicates “configured to,” “operable to,” and “programmed to” do not imply any specific tangible or intangible modification to a particular subject but are intended to be used interchangeably. In one or more embodiments, a processor configured to monitor and control operations or components may also mean that the processor is programmed to monitor and control operations or that the processor is operable to monitor and control operations. Similarly, a processor configured to execute code may be interpreted as a processor programmed to execute code or operable to execute code.

[0108] Phrases such as aspect, that aspect, on the other hand, some aspects, one or more aspects, implementation, that implementation, another implementation, some implementations, one or more implementations, implementation scheme, that implementation scheme, another implementation scheme, some implementation schemes, one or more implementation schemes, configuration, that configuration, another configuration, some configurations, one or more configurations, subject matter, disclosure, this disclosure, other variations, etc., are for convenience and do not imply that disclosures involving one or more such phrases are essential to the subject matter, or that such disclosures apply to all configurations of the subject matter. Disclosures involving one or more such phrases may apply to all configurations or one or more configurations. Disclosures involving one or more such phrases may provide one or more examples. Phrases such as aspect or some aspects may refer to one or more aspects, and this applies similarly to other foregoing phrases.

[0109] The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any embodiment described herein as “exemplary” or “example” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or superior to other embodiments. Furthermore, the terms “comprising,” “having,” etc., as used in the specification or claims, are intended to be inclusive, similar to how “comprising” is interpreted when used as a transitional word in the claims.

[0110] All structural and functional equivalents of elements throughout the various aspects described herein that are known or later become apparent to those skilled in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be covered by the claims. Furthermore, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be made public, regardless of whether such disclosure is expressly stated in the claims. Pursuant to paragraph 6 of 35 U.S.SC §112, no claim element needs to be interpreted unless it is expressly stated using the phrase “means for…” or, in the case of a method claim, using the phrase “step for…”.

[0111] The preceding descriptions are provided to enable those skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. Various modifications to these aspects will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other aspects. Therefore, this claim is not intended to be limited to the aspects shown herein, but rather to be consistent with the language of the claim, wherein references to elements in singular values ​​are not intended to mean “only one,” but rather “one or more,” unless specifically indicated. Unless otherwise specifically stated, the term “some” means one or more. Male pronouns (e.g., his) include female and neutral (e.g., her and its), and vice versa. Titles and subtitles (if any) are used for convenience only and do not limit the disclosure of this subject matter.

Claims

1. A system comprising: The station includes: An input device configured to determine the lens type for a user; A distributor configured to provide one of a plurality of lens groups based on the lens type; and A station communication interface, configured to communicate with a head-mounted device regarding an indication of one of a plurality of lens groups; and Head-mounted device, the head-mounted device comprising: monitor; HMD connector, the HMD connector being configured to receive one of a plurality of lens groups; An HMD communication interface, configured to receive the indication of one of a plurality of lens groups from the station communication interface; and A sensor configured to detect the user's characteristics through one of a plurality of lens groups based on an indication received from the station.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the display is configured to output an image based on the indication of one of the plurality of lens groups.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the input device is a detector for measuring the characteristics of a reference lens.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the detector comprises: Reference pattern; A camera, configured to capture an image of the reference pattern through the reference lens; as well as Processor, the processor being configured to: Compare the image with the reference pattern; and The indication of the lens type is generated based on a comparison between the image and the reference pattern.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the input device includes a user interface for receiving an indication of the lens type, wherein the lens type corresponds to a prescription for the user.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the input device is operatively connected to the station communication interface to receive an indication of the lens type from an external device, wherein the lens type corresponds to a prescription for the user.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the station is configured to mount one of the plurality of lens groups at the HMD connector of the head-mounted device.

8. A station, comprising: A detector used to measure the characteristics of a reference lens; Distributor The dispenser includes a plurality of sample lens groups, the dispenser being configured to provide one of the plurality of sample lens groups based on the characteristics of the reference lens, wherein each of the plurality of sample lens groups includes a lens connector configured to engage an HMD connector of a head-mounted device, the head-mounted device including a display visible through the one of the plurality of sample lens groups. and A station communication interface is configured to communicate with the head-mounted device to an indication of one of a plurality of sample lens groups, such that the sensors of the head-mounted device can detect user characteristics through the one of the plurality of sample lens groups based on the indication.

9. The station of claim 8, wherein the detector comprises a camera and a reference pattern, wherein the camera is configured to capture an image of the reference pattern through the reference lens.

10. The station of claim 9, wherein the detector further comprises a processor configured to compare the image with the reference pattern.

11. The station of claim 8, wherein the dispenser is further configured to dispense a plurality of sample lens groups having different optical properties from each other in the sample lens group, wherein one of the plurality of sample lens groups in the sample lens group is a sample lens group that provides vision correction most similar to that provided by the reference lens.

12. The station of claim 8, wherein the dispenser is further configured to dispense the head-mounted device.

13. The station of claim 12, wherein the dispenser is further configured to mount one of the plurality of sample lens groups at the HMD connector of the head-mounted device.

14. A system comprising: An input device for determining the lens type for a user; and A dispenser comprising a plurality of sample lens groups, the dispenser being configured to provide one of the plurality of sample lens groups based on the lens type, the sample lens group being usable with a sample head-mounted device; A point-of-sale device configured to generate an order for a purchasable head-mounted device and one of a plurality of purchasable lens sets based on the lens type, wherein the number of purchasable lens sets is greater than the number of sample lens sets available from the dispenser. A station communication interface is configured to communicate with the sample head-mounted device to an indication of one of the plurality of sample lens groups, such that the sensors of the sample head-mounted device can detect the user's characteristics through the one of the plurality of sample lens groups based on the indication.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein the input device is a detector for measuring the characteristics of a reference lens.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein the detector comprises: Reference pattern; A camera, configured to capture an image of the reference pattern through the reference lens; as well as Processor, the processor being configured to: Compare the image with the reference pattern; and An indication of the lens type is generated based on a comparison between the image and the reference pattern.

17. The system of claim 14, wherein the input device includes a user interface for receiving an indication of the lens type, wherein the lens type corresponds to a prescription for the user.

18. The system of claim 14, wherein the input device is operatively connected to a station communication interface to receive an indication of the lens type from an external device, wherein the lens type corresponds to a prescription for the user.

19. The system of claim 14, wherein each of the sample lens groups includes a lens connector configured to engage an HMD connector of the sample head-mounted device, the sample head-mounted device including a display visible through the one of the sample lens groups.

Images