Antenna for wearable electronic device

Abstract

An antenna architecture disclosed herein may include a magnetic dipole antenna including a radiating element formed as a split ring including at least a first portion and a second portion positioned opposite each other. The magnetic dipole antenna may also include a conductive via connecting the first portion and an opposing second portion of the radiating element. The magnetic dipole antenna may also include an antenna feed disposed within the conductive via. A first portion of the radiating element may be shorter in length than an opposing second portion of the radiating element, and a difference in length between the first and second portions of the radiating element may form a capacitive gap across the radiating element. Various other systems, apparatuses, wearable electronic devices, and methods of manufacture are also disclosed.

Description

Background Art

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to an improved antenna architecture for use in a mobile electronic device. The improved antenna architecture may include a magnetic dipole antenna that may exhibit reduced directivity and may therefore operate more efficiently in a cross-body implementation. Other antenna architectures for communication in a mobile electronic device may include an electric dipole antenna. Electric dipole antennas are commonly used as wireless local area network (WiFi) antennas or Bluetooth antennas. These antennas may be used for communication between a virtual reality head-mounted display (HMD) and a virtual reality (VR) handheld controller. However, the frequency bands used by WiFi antennas, Bluetooth antennas, and similar electric dipole antennas are typically highly saturated and therefore susceptible to interference. Therefore, when a VR controller or other mobile device is positioned in front of the antenna (e.g., in an HMD), the electric dipole antenna may work properly, but when the VR controller or other device is positioned behind the antenna (and may be behind the user of the HMD), the electric dipole antenna may work poorly or not at all. Summary of the invention

[0002] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a magnetic dipole antenna, the magnetic dipole antenna comprising: a radiating element formed as an open loop, the radiating element comprising at least a first portion and a second portion positioned opposite to each other; a conductive via connecting the first portion and the opposite second portion of the radiating element; and

[0003] An antenna feed is disposed within a conductive via, wherein a first portion of a radiating element is shorter in length than an opposing second portion of the radiating element, and wherein a difference in length between the first and second portions of the radiating element forms a capacitive gap across the radiating element.

[0004] In some embodiments, the radiating element is rectangular and has a third portion and a fourth portion disposed opposite each other and parallel to the conductive via.

[0005] In some embodiments, the rectangular radiating element includes multiple small loop antennas fused together.

[0006] In some embodiments, a rectangular radiating element comprises a longer side and a shorter side, and wherein the capacitive gap formed across the radiating element is on the shorter side of the rectangle.

[0007] In some embodiments, a rectangular radiating element comprises a longer side and a shorter side, and wherein the capacitive gap formed across the radiating element is on the longer side of the rectangle.

[0008] In some embodiments, the radiating element is positioned adjacent to at least one of a printed circuit board (PCB) or a thermal shield.

[0009] In some embodiments, a first portion and an opposing second portion of the radiating element are linked via conductive vias and at least a first row of conductive vias.

[0010] In some embodiments, the first portion and the opposing second portion of the radiating element are linked via conductive vias, a first row of conductive vias, and a second row of conductive vias, wherein the second row of conductive vias is shorter than the first row of conductive vias.

[0011] In some embodiments, the shorter second row of conductive vias forms a gap between the first portion of the radiating element and the second row of conductive vias.

[0012] In some embodiments, individual conductive vias in the plurality of conductive vias in the second row of conductive vias are linked to each other via a conductive material.

[0013] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a system comprising: a radiating element formed as an open loop, the radiating element comprising at least a first portion and a second portion positioned relative to each other; a conductive via connecting the first portion and the opposite second portion of the radiating element; and an antenna feed disposed within the conductive via. wherein the first portion of the radiating element is shorter in length than the opposite second portion of the radiating element, and wherein the difference in length between the first portion and the second portion of the radiating element forms a capacitive gap across the radiating element.

[0014] In some embodiments, the radiating element, the conductive via, and the antenna feed are disposed within at least one mobile electronic device.

[0015] In some embodiments, the at least one mobile electronic device includes a head mounted display device.

[0016] In some embodiments, the at least one mobile electronic device includes a head mounted display device and a handheld controller.

[0017] In some embodiments, radiating elements, conductive vias, and antenna feeds facilitate communication between a head mounted display and a handheld controller.

[0018] In some embodiments, communication between the head mounted display and the handheld controller includes a cross-body link through at least a portion of the user's body.

[0019] In some embodiments, the radiating element and the conductive via form a perpendicular radiation field relative to the user's body.

[0020] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a manufacturing method, the manufacturing method comprising: providing a radiating element formed as an open loop, the radiating element comprising at least a first portion and a second portion positioned relative to each other; providing a conductive via connecting the first portion and the opposite second portion of the radiating element; and assembling an antenna feed within the conductive via; wherein the first portion of the radiating element is shorter in length than the opposite second portion of the radiating element, and wherein the length difference between the first portion and the second portion of the radiating element forms a capacitive gap across the radiating element.

[0021] In some embodiments, the radiating element is formed by a plurality of open loop antennas arranged parallel to each other.

[0022] In some embodiments, the radiating element, the conductive vias, and the antenna feed are arranged on a printed circuit board. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] The accompanying drawings illustrate several exemplary embodiments and are a part of the specification. Together with the following description, these drawings illustrate and explain various principles of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 1A and Figure 1B An exemplary embodiment of a magnetic dipole antenna is shown.

[0025] Figure 2A and Figure 2B An alternative exemplary embodiment of a magnetic dipole antenna is shown.

[0026] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C Various exemplary embodiments of antenna performance indicators for an exemplary magnetic dipole antenna architecture are shown.

[0027] Figure 4 A graph plotting the directivity and gain of a magnetic dipole antenna is shown.

[0028] Figure 5 A graph plotting the scattering parameters of a magnetic dipole antenna is shown.

[0029] Fig. 6A and Figure 6B Relevant examples of electric dipole antenna implementations and magnetic dipole antenna implementations are shown.

[0030] FIG. 7A to FIG. 7D An alternative exemplary embodiment of a magnetic dipole antenna is shown, including performance indicators of such an antenna.

[0031] Fig. 8A and Figure 8B An embodiment of a magnetic dipole antenna positioned beside a conductive shield is shown.

[0032] Fig.9A and Fig. 9B Relevant examples of electric dipole antenna implementations and magnetic dipole antenna implementations are shown.

[0033] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10C An embodiment of a magnetic dipole antenna disposed on a printed circuit board (PCB) is shown.

[0034] Fig.11 An embodiment is shown in which a magnetic dipole antenna is incorporated into a wearable device implemented by a user to communicate with one or more peripheral devices.

[0035] Fig.12 is a flow chart of an exemplary method for making a wearable electronic device with a magnetic dipole antenna.

[0036] Fig.13 is an illustration of exemplary augmented reality glasses that may be used in conjunction with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0037] Fig.14 is an illustration of an exemplary virtual reality head mounted device (headset) that may be used in conjunction with various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0038] Fig.15 is an illustration of an exemplary haptic device that can be used in conjunction with various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0039] Fig.16 is an illustration of an exemplary virtual reality environment according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0040] Fig.17 is an illustration of an exemplary augmented reality environment according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0041] Fig.18A and Fig.18B is an illustration of an exemplary human-machine interface configured to be worn around a user's lower arm or wrist.

[0042] Fig.19A and Fig.19B is an illustration of an exemplary schematic diagram of various internal components of a wearable system.

[0043] In all drawings, the same reference numerals and descriptions indicate similar but not necessarily identical elements. Although the exemplary embodiments described herein are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, a plurality of specific embodiments have been shown in the drawings by way of example, and these specific embodiments will be described in detail herein. However, the exemplary embodiments described herein are not intended to be limited to the specific forms disclosed. Instead, the present disclosure encompasses all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the appended claims. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] The present disclosure generally relates to an improved antenna architecture for use in a mobile electronic device. The improved antenna architecture may include a magnetic dipole antenna that may exhibit reduced directivity and may therefore operate more efficiently in a cross-body implementation. Other antenna architectures for communication in a mobile electronic device may include an electric dipole antenna. Electric dipole antennas are commonly used as WiFi antennas or Bluetooth antennas. These antennas may be used for communication between a virtual reality head-mounted display (HMD) and a virtual reality (VR) handheld controller. However, the frequency bands used by WiFi antennas, Bluetooth antennas, and similar electric dipole antennas tend to be highly saturated and are therefore susceptible to interference. Therefore, when a VR controller or other mobile device is positioned in front of the antenna (e.g., in an HMD), the electric dipole antenna may work properly, but when the VR controller or other device is positioned behind the antenna (and may be behind the user of the HMD), the electric dipole antenna may work poorly or not at all.

[0045] In contrast, embodiments described herein may fabricate, create, or otherwise provide magnetic dipole antennas (e.g., ultrawideband (UWB) magnetic dipole antennas). These magnetic dipole antennas may provide a reduction in directivity and may therefore operate more efficiently in an omnidirectional fashion. This reduction in directivity may provide a higher level of conducted power, which may create a stronger radio frequency (RF) link between the magnetic dipole UWB antennas described herein and the peripheral devices (e.g., VR controllers) with which these magnetic dipole UWB antennas communicate. This reduction in directivity may also specifically improve the strength of the RF connection to peripheral devices behind the antenna or behind the user.

[0046] In fact, the magnetic dipole (e.g., UWB) antenna described herein may include a structure that provides a conductive material that wraps around a substrate (e.g., a rectangular substrate) or is formed around the substrate. The conductive material may not completely wrap the substrate, but may leave a gap or gap between one side of the antenna and the other side of the antenna. In an embodiment of the present invention, the gap may act as a capacitor between the two ends of the conductive material separated by the substrate. The gap can generate a magnetic field in the magnetic dipole antenna that can provide an omnidirectional radiation pattern. The omnidirectional radiation pattern can exhibit a less directivity than that of an electric dipole antenna. The magnetic dipole antenna described herein can be fed by an electrical via that electrically connects two opposite sides of the antenna. The electrical via may include an antenna feed source having various antenna feeding components, including impedance matching circuits, amplifiers, filters, tuners, etc.

[0047] Additionally, the resulting magnetic dipole antenna structure can be manufactured in a smaller form factor than an electric dipole antenna, and thus, the magnetic dipole antenna structure can be placed closer to a printed circuit board (PCB), a thermal sheet, or other components that may cause interference in a highly directional electric antenna. Figures 1A to 19B The above-mentioned embodiments are explained in more detail.

[0048] According to the general principles described herein, the features of any of the multiple embodiments described herein can be used in combination with each other. These and other embodiments, features and advantages will be more fully understood when reading the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and claims.

[0049] Figure 1A An embodiment 100A is shown that may provide a magnetic dipole antenna 101. The magnetic dipole antenna 101 may include features or characteristics that reduce directivity and may provide improved efficiency and performance when the magnetic dipole antenna 101 is disposed near a metal structure such as a PCB or a heat sheet. In fact, the embodiments described herein may provide reduced antenna radiation directivity while maintaining the transmit and receive efficiency of the antenna.

[0050] For example, where the magnetic dipole antenna 101 is implemented in a VR HMD or other wearable device, the magnetic dipole antenna may need to operate below a specified effective isotropic radiated power (EIRP) while still providing sufficient efficiency and power to communicate with a device that may be located behind the wearer of the device. Figure 1A The magnetic dipole antenna 101 may include a radiating element formed as an open loop, the radiating element including a plurality of different parts having different sizes. Figure 1B As shown in the embodiment 100B of FIG. 1 , at least two of these parts may be connected via a conductive via 104. In some cases, the two connected parts may be opposite to each other on the magnetic dipole antenna 101. The conductive via 104 may also include an antenna feed 105 disposed therein, which is used to provide a signal to the antenna or receive a signal from the antenna.

[0051] As described above, the antenna feed 105 may include an impedance matching circuit, an amplifier, a tuner, a filter, a signal processor, or another accompanying element. In different embodiments, the lengths of the various portions of the radiating element may be shorter or longer when compared to each other. Figure 1A and Figure 1B1. In the embodiment of the present invention, for example, the shorter side of the magnetic dipole antenna 101 can leave a gap 103 between the two parts of the radiating element. This gap 103 spanning the radiating element can form a capacitive link between the two parts of the antenna. The inner portion of the magnetic dipole antenna 101 can include a substrate 102. The substrate can include a non-conductive material (e.g., a composite electrically insulating material), or can simply include air or other gas. When connecting the two sides of the magnetic dipole antenna 101, a conductive via 104 can pass through the substrate 102 and can be connected at the attachment point 120.

[0052] Figure 2A Embodiment 200A is shown and Figure 2B Embodiment 200B is shown, and embodiment 200A / 200B can be used with Figure 1A / Figure 1B . However, in embodiment 200A / 200B, example dimensions of each side are shown. For example, the height of magnetic dipole antenna 201 can be 3 millimeters (mm), while the length can be 20 mm and the width can be 2 mm. Other heights, lengths and widths are also possible. In addition, different ratios are also possible. In the embodiments of this article, magnetic dipole antenna 201 is shown as a rectangle. That is, magnetic dipole antenna 201 can be formed into substantially any shape, as long as gaps (e.g., gaps 203) are provided between the parts. In embodiment 200A, magnetic dipole antenna 201 can include four parts or four sides: top side 211, bottom side 209, and two sides 208 and 210. Side 210 can be shorter than side 208, leaving gap 203 between top 211 and side 210. In this embodiment, side 208 can be connected to side 210 with a conductive via connected at point 220.

[0053] In fact, if Figure 2B As shown in the electrical diagram 200B of FIG. 200B , the side 208 can be connected to the opposite side 210 through the antenna feed 205 and the conductive via 204. The length difference between the side 210 and the side 208 can create a gap 203 between the side 210 and the bottom side 209. In this embodiment, the gap can be 0.3 mm. Other gap sizes can be used, including gaps greater than or less than 0.3 mm (e.g., 0.1 mm, 0.2 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.75 mm, 1 mm, etc.). Different gap sizes can change the capacitance of the gap, and therefore can change the radiation pattern of the magnetic dipole antenna 201.

[0054] For example, Figure 3A Embodiment 300A shows an example radiation flow around a magnetic dipole antenna 301. The magnetic dipole antenna 301 may have Figure 2A301. The magnetic dipole antenna 301 may also have a capacitive gap 303 and multiple radiating sides located around the substrate 302. The magnetic dipole antenna 301 may include a conductive via between point 305 and point 306. The antenna feed may be provided at point 305 on the conductive via. As can be seen from the arrows surrounding the magnetic dipole antenna 301, current may flow around the various portions of the radiating element in a generally counterclockwise manner. The radiation may be vertically polarized relative to the length of the magnetic dipole antenna 301. In addition, as indicated in the symbol legend 304, different levels of magnetic field strength may be indicated by arrows having different points, dashes, or points and dashes. Therefore, certain portions (e.g., the ends) of the magnetic dipole antenna 301 may have higher magnetic field strengths, while the middle and lower portions may include lower magnetic field strengths.

[0055] Figure 3B Embodiment 300B shows an example gain graph 311 of magnetic dipole antenna 301 in operation. In some cases, magnetic dipole antenna 301 can be configured to operate at or near 8 GHz. As indicated by symbol legend 312, gain graph 311 shows example gain levels for operating magnetic dipole antenna 301 at different phases, as indicated by 313, 314, and 315. Figure 3C Embodiment 300C shows a radiation pattern 315 similar or identical to 313 on gain graph 311. Radiation pattern 313 may be produced by operating magnetic dipole antenna 301 at a given frequency. As described above, magnetic dipole antenna 301 may include capacitive gap 303 and substrate 302, around which a radiating element of magnetic dipole antenna 301 is formed (in this case, around air). As can be seen, the radiation pattern may radiate in a substantially omnidirectional (non-directional) pattern. Thus, magnetic dipole antenna 301 may provide reduced directivity when compared to an electric dipole antenna. This reduced directivity may allow magnetic dipole antenna 301 to function in embodiments where the total radiated power plus directivity of the magnetic dipole antenna must be less than the EIRP limit, but must be large enough to operate through a user's body or through surrounding PCBs, heat sheets, or electronic components.

[0056] Figure 4 An embodiment 400 is provided with a graph 401 that includes plotted data. The plotted data may represent directivity 405 at different frequencies 403 and gain at different frequencies (see, for example, symbol legend 404). Directivity 405 and gain 406 may rise or fall on y-axis 402 based on the frequency being used on the antenna. Graph 401 may represent Figure 3A The antenna parameters of the magnetic dipole antenna 301 are shown in FIG. 3 . Therefore, these plotted data points can indicate Figure 3AThe optimal operating range of the magnetic dipole antenna 301 may be around 8 GHz. Within this range, the magnetic dipole antenna 301 may not interfere with other Bluetooth or WiFi devices or controllers. In addition, at these frequencies, the magnetic dipole antenna 301 may enable a robust cross-body link to a controller or other peripheral device behind the user. Further, at these frequencies, the magnetic dipole antenna 301 may provide sufficiently low directivity to help form a cross-body link and work with devices on the side of the user or behind the user.

[0057] Figure 5 The embodiment 500 also includes a chart 501 having plotted data 504. The plotted data 504 may also correspond to Figure 3A Magnetic dipole antenna 301. Graph 501 may show S11 antenna return loss on y-axis 502, and may show return loss at various frequencies along x-axis 503. It can be seen that the antenna return loss may drop sharply at about 7.8 GHz. This reduction in antenna return loss may allow magnetic dipole antenna 301 to operate particularly effectively at frequencies between 7.75 GHz and 8.0 GHz. Thus, as described above, magnetic dipole antenna 301 may exhibit high directivity, high gain, and low return loss at frequencies in the 8 GHz range. Because this frequency range provides more benefits than more saturated, lower frequency ranges (e.g., 2.4 GHz to 5 GHz), magnetic dipole antenna 301 may be used for communication between local devices (including between a virtual reality HMD and a virtual reality controller), or between a smart watch and an Internet of Things (IoT) device, or between artificial reality glasses and a smartphone, and the like.

[0058] Fig. 6A Embodiment 600A is shown and Figure 6B Embodiments 600B are shown in which different types of antennas are shown located next to the metal sheet. Fig. 6A In the embodiment 600A of FIG. 6 , the electric dipole antenna 602 is shown as being a specified distance away from the metal sheet 601. The distance (d) is the minimum specified distance required for the electric dipole antenna 602 to be able to operate at a minimum level of efficiency. In practice, when the electric dipole antenna 602 moves closer to the metal sheet 601 (or PCB, or heat sheet, or other electronic components that may form an electrical shield), the electric dipole antenna loses efficiency and actually loses its ability to receive and / or transmit signals. Therefore, in order to operate correctly, a minimum distance (d) must be maintained between the electric dipole antenna 602 and the metal sheet 601. The distance (d) may be in the x-direction (603), the y-direction (604), or possibly in the z-direction along the z-axis.

[0059] In contrast, Figure 6BIn the embodiment 600B, the magnetic dipole antenna 605 can be located close to the metal sheet 601. The distance (d) between the magnetic dipole antenna 605 and the metal sheet 601 (or PCB, heat sheet, etc.) can be 0 mm. Figure 1A 101 or Figure 3A 301) provides reduced directivity and reduced antenna return loss, so even when the magnetic dipole antenna 605 is located in close proximity to an interference source (e.g., metal sheet 601), the magnetic dipole antenna 605 can still operate normally at a minimum level of efficiency. The metal sheet 601 can be of substantially any shape or size. Thus, while some cases may implement a 50 mm x 100 mm rectangle, it will be appreciated that the metal sheet 601 may be larger or smaller, or may be formed into a different shape, or may include multiple smaller components or pieces. Allowing the magnetic dipole antenna 605 to be located in close proximity to a PCB, heat sheet, or other potentially interfering component allows mobile device designers greater freedom in where the magnetic dipole antenna 605 is located in a given device, and ensures that the magnetic dipole antenna will work regardless of where it is located within the mobile device.

[0060] Fig. 7A An embodiment 700A of a magnetic dipole antenna 701 is shown and Figure 7B An embodiment 700B of a magnetic dipole antenna 701 is shown, which may include multiple radiating sections: 704, 705, 706, and 710. Figure 2A Magnetic dipole antenna 701 can include capacitive gap 703 on the shorter sides of the radiating element compared to magnetic dipole antenna 201. For example, magnetic dipole antenna 701 can have a length of, for example, 12 mm, a width of 3.6 mm, and a height of 2 mm (other dimensions are possible). In this embodiment, back side 706 can be taller than front side 704. This can create capacitive gap 703 between top 710 and front side 704. Figure 7B Embodiment 700B shows that the capacitive gap 703 may be, for example, 0.45 mm. The shorter front side 704 of the radiating element may be conductively linked to the longer side 706 via a conductive via 707. As in the above example, the conductive via 707 may include an antenna feed 708 and its attendant components.

[0061] By moving the capacitive gap 703 to the shorter side of the rectangular magnetic dipole antenna 701, rather than (as Figure 2A 201) relatively long side, the magnetic dipole antenna 701 may behave differently (ie, the antenna may exhibit different performance parameters). For example, Figure 7CAs shown in the embodiment 700C, the radiation pattern 722 may be more efficient in certain directions, as indicated by the hatching pattern outlined in the symbol legend 720. In addition, Fig. 7A The magnetic dipole antenna 701 can exhibit a strong vertical field at the capacitor gap, such as Fig.7D 700D is indicated by shaded indicator 731 of diagram 730, which illustrates a high level of radiated energy across the vertical field via legend 732. This high level of radiated energy across the vertical field at the gap can improve the cross-body link, allowing the magnetic dipole antenna 701 to be implemented in scenarios where the antenna is interacting with devices next to it and / or devices behind the antenna location.

[0062] Fig. 8A Embodiment 800A is shown and Figure 8B 800B are shown, in which the magnetic dipole antenna 802 is implemented close to the metal sheet 801. The magnetic dipole antenna 802 can be connected to Fig. 7A 801 may be the same or similar to magnetic dipole antenna 701 of FIG. 802. Metal sheet 801 may be a heat sheet, a PCB, an electronic component, or other item that may interfere with the transmission or reception of electromagnetic radiation. Magnetic dipole antenna 802 may radiate strongly with a high total radiated power away from metal sheet 801 (i.e., in direction 804). However, even with the presence of metal plate or metal sheet 801, even behind metal sheet 801, the radiation pattern of magnetic dipole antenna 802 may exhibit a smaller but still strong total radiated power. This may be due to the reduced directivity provided by magnetic dipole antenna 802.

[0063] Figure 8B The gain graph 810 may be shown in the plotted data 814 Fig. 8A The plotted data 814 may represent an antenna scan performed along a given plane (e.g., θ=90 degrees) at 8 GHz. The plotted data 813 may represent an antenna scan performed along a given plane (e.g., θ=90 degrees) at 8 GHz. The scan is performed on a plane of degrees, and the plotted data 812 may represent the scan performed on a plane of degrees at 8 GHz. Thus, it can be seen that even in the presence of metal sheet 801, magnetic dipole antenna 802 can provide sufficient gain at 8 GHz to operate in a functional manner.

[0064] Fig.9AAn embodiment 900A including an electric dipole antenna 901 is shown. The electric dipole antenna 901 may include two parts fed by an antenna feed 902. For example, to operate properly at 8 GHz, the electric dipole antenna 901 may need to be relatively long. For example, the electric dipole antenna 901 may need to be 15 mm long or longer. Also, the electric dipole antenna 901 may need to maintain a distance of at least 5 mm between its radiating element and any metal plate, PCB, heat sheet, etc., as shown at 903. Compared to the electric dipole antenna 901, Fig. 9B The magnetic dipole antenna 910 of the embodiment 900B can be much shorter (e.g., 5 mm instead of 15 mm). In fact, at least in some embodiments, the magnetic dipole antenna 910 can be 5 mm long, 4 mm wide, and 3 mm high. The magnetic dipole antenna 910 can have a capacitive gap of 0.4 mm between the radiating portion 911 and the radiating portion 912.

[0065] Further, radiating portion 912 may be linked to radiating portion 914 through conductive via 918 with antenna feed 916. In this embodiment, side portions 911 and 913 may have the same height, while radiating portions 912 and 914 may have different lengths to provide a 0.4 mm gap. In this embodiment, magnetic dipole antenna 910 may be located proximate to metal plate 917, or may be located away from metal plate 917. In the case where magnetic dipole antenna 910 is adjacent to the metal plate, the reduced directivity provided by the magnetic dipole antenna may allow the antenna to operate at a sufficiently high efficiency to continue to operate in a functional manner.

[0066] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10C Embodiments 1000A to 1000C are shown, in which a PCB version of a magnetic dipole antenna may be provided. Fig. 10A In the embodiment 1000A, a magnetic dipole antenna designed to be implemented on a printed circuit board (PCB) (e.g., a "PCB magnetic dipole antenna") may include multiple small loop antennas fused or fixed together. In fact, the PCB magnetic dipole antenna 1001 may include multiple small loop antennas, each of which includes a top radiating portion 1002, a column 1003, a bottom radiating portion 1004, and a second shorter column 1009. The small loop may be an incomplete or open loop including a gap 1008. The gap may span between the shorter column 1009 and the top radiating portion 1002. As shown in FIG. Fig. 10AAs shown, a single PCB magnetic dipole antenna may include 10, 15, 20 or more small loop antennas fused together. In some cases, these fused small loop antennas may form a solid plate (e.g., 1002 and / or 1005). In some embodiments, each solid plate (e.g., radiating portion 1002 and 1005) may be connected by a conductive via 1011, which itself includes an antenna feed 1010. In some cases, the dimensions of PCB magnetic dipole antenna 1001 may be 10 mm long, 4 mm wide, 2 mm high, with a via spacing 1006 of 0.5 mm, a via diameter 1007 of 0.25 mm, and a gap length of 1 mm. Other dimensions are also possible.

[0067] Fig. 10B Embodiment 1000B shows a single small loop antenna with a top radiating portion 1002, a longer post 1003, a shorter post 1009, and a bottom radiating portion 1004. In some cases, the top radiating portion 1002 can be linked to the bottom radiating portion 1004 by a conductive via 1011 with an antenna feed 1010. Fig. 10B As can be seen in the figure, the conductive via 1011 can be positioned a specified distance 1012 away from the larger pillar 1003. This distance can provide sufficient isolation for the radiating portions 1002, 1003, 1004, and 1009 to operate in their intended manner, thereby providing vertically polarized current flow. This can provide an omnidirectional radiation pattern that functions similarly in most or all directions. Fig. 10C Embodiment 1000C shows a PCB magnetic dipole antenna 1023 arranged on a substrate 1020 (e.g., a silicon wafer). The substrate 1020 can be made to have substantially any length 1021 or width 1022, and the substrate 1020 can accommodate substantially any number of PCB magnetic dipole antennas 1023.

[0068] In some embodiments, Fig. 10A PCB magnetic dipole antenna 1001 and / or Figure 1A The magnetic dipole antenna 101 in the embodiment can be implemented on a wireless mobile device (e.g., a virtual reality HMD). Fig.11 In the embodiment 1100 of the present invention, a user 1103 may wear a virtual reality HMD 1101. The virtual reality HMD 1101 may include one or more magnetic dipole antennas 1102. The magnetic dipole antennas 1102 may be connected to Figure 1AThe magnetic dipole antenna 1102 of the VRHMD 1101 may be the same or different and may include a conductive gap between the radiating elements that allows the antenna to operate with reduced directivity, reduced path loss, and / or increased gain. The magnetic dipole antenna 1102 within the VRHMD 1101 may communicate with a local wireless device including a controller 1104. In this embodiment, the controller 1104 may be located behind the user 1103. Thus, the magnetic dipole antenna 1102 may establish a cross-body link to the controller. The cross-body link may pass through the user's body and still provide sufficient radiated power to send and receive signals to and from the wireless controller 1104.

[0069] Additionally or alternatively, the magnetic dipole antenna 1102 may form additional cross-body links with other wireless devices in the user's environment, including an IoT device, a smart watch, a smartphone, artificial reality glasses, a laptop or tablet computer, or an embedded system. In this case, the communication between the VR HMD 1101 and the handheld controller 1104 (or another device) may be a cross-body link through at least some portion of the user's body. The cross-body link formed by the radiating element and the conductive vias of the magnetic dipole antenna 1102 may provide a perpendicular radiation field relative to the user's body. The perpendicular radiation field may be designed to pass through the user's body more efficiently, exhibit less attenuation, and retain more of its signal strength along the path to the peripheral device.

[0070] Fig.12 is a flow chart of an exemplary manufacturing method 1200 for assembling or producing a magnetic dipole antenna. Fig.12 The steps shown in can be performed by any suitable type of industrial equipment or industrial machine. These industrial machines can operate according to computer executable code and / or computing systems (including embedded computing systems). In one example, Fig.12 Each of the multiple steps shown in may represent an algorithm whose structure includes and / or is represented by multiple sub-steps, examples of which are provided in more detail below.

[0071] like Fig.12 As shown, at step 1210, one or more manufacturing systems, machines, or devices may assemble, generate, or otherwise provide a radiating element formed as an open ring, the radiating element including at least a first portion and a second portion (e.g., Figure 2B210 and 208). At step 1220, the systems herein can provide a conductive via 204 connecting a first portion of a radiating element and an opposing second portion. At step 1230, these systems can assemble an antenna feed 205 within the conductive via 204. In some cases, the radiating side 210 of the first portion can be shorter in length than the radiating side 208 of the opposing second portion. And, in at least some cases, the difference in length between the first portion and the second portion of the radiating element can form a capacitive gap (e.g., 203) across the radiating element.

[0072] In some embodiments, Fig. 10A As shown in , the radiating element can be formed by multiple open loop antennas arranged in parallel to each other. The multiple open loop antennas can be linked together via a conductive material (e.g., copper or other metal). The connected small loop antennas can be arranged on a substrate (e.g., a printed circuit board). The printed circuit board can then be incorporated into many different types of mobile electronic devices.

[0073] Thus, in this manner, the embodiments described herein can provide a magnetic dipole antenna that exhibits reduced directivity, reduced path loss, and improved gain compared to an electric dipole antenna. Additionally, the magnetic dipole antennas described herein can be smaller than electric dipole antennas, and thus can be disposed in more locations within an electronic device. Still further, because the magnetic dipole antennas described herein have reduced directivity, the magnetic dipole can be disposed near or very close to a metal sheet, a thermal sheet, or other potentially interfering component, and still provide a minimum required antenna efficiency.

[0074] Example Embodiments

[0075] Example 1: A magnetic dipole antenna may include: a radiating element formed as an open loop, the radiating element including at least a first portion and a second portion positioned relative to each other; a conductive via connecting the first portion and the opposing second portion of the radiating element; and an antenna feed disposed within the conductive via. The first portion of the radiating element may be shorter in length than the opposing second portion of the radiating element, and the difference in length between the first portion and the second portion of the radiating element may form a capacitive gap across the radiating element.

[0076] Example 2: The magnetic dipole antenna of Example 1, wherein the radiating element is rectangular and has a third portion and a fourth portion arranged opposite to each other and parallel to the conductive via.

[0077] Example 3: A magnetic dipole antenna according to any one of Examples 1 or 2, wherein the rectangular radiating element comprises a plurality of small loop antennas fused together.

[0078] Example 4: The magnetic dipole antenna of any one of Examples 1 to 3, wherein the rectangular radiating element comprises a longer side and a shorter side, and wherein the capacitive gap formed across the radiating element is on the shorter side of the rectangle.

[0079] Example 5: The magnetic dipole antenna of any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the rectangular radiating element comprises a longer side and a shorter side, and wherein the capacitive gap formed across the radiating element is on the longer side of the rectangle.

[0080] Example 6: The magnetic dipole antenna of any of Examples 1 to 5, wherein the radiating element is positioned adjacent to at least one of a printed circuit board (PCB) or a thermal shield.

[0081] Example 7: The magnetic dipole antenna of any of Examples 1 to 6, wherein the first portion and the opposing second portion of the radiating element are linked via conductive vias and at least a first row of conductive vias.

[0082] Example 8: A magnetic dipole antenna according to any one of Examples 1 to 7, wherein a first portion and an opposing second portion of the radiating element are linked via conductive vias, a first row of conductive vias, and a second row of conductive vias, wherein the second row of conductive vias is shorter than the first row of conductive vias.

[0083] Example 9: The magnetic dipole antenna of any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein the shorter second row of conductive vias forms a gap between the first portion of the radiating element and the second row of conductive vias.

[0084] Example 10: The magnetic dipole antenna of any one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein each of the plurality of conductive vias in the second row of conductive vias is linked to each other via a conductive material.

[0085] Example 11: A system may include: a radiating element formed as an open loop, the radiating element including at least a first portion and a second portion positioned opposite each other; a conductive via connecting the first portion and the opposing second portion of the radiating element; and an antenna feed disposed within the conductive via. The first portion of the radiating element is shorter in length than the opposing second portion of the radiating element, and wherein the difference in length between the first portion and the second portion of the radiating element forms a capacitive gap across the radiating element.

[0086] Example 12: The system of Example 11, wherein the radiating element, the conductive via, and the antenna feed are disposed within at least one mobile electronic device.

[0087] Example 13: A system according to Example 11 or Example 12, wherein at least one mobile electronic device includes a head-mounted display device.

[0088] Example 14: A system according to any of Examples 11 to 13, wherein at least one mobile electronic device includes a head-mounted display device and a handheld controller.

[0089] Example 15: A system according to any of Examples 11 to 14, wherein the radiating element, the conductive via, and the antenna feed facilitate communication between the head-mounted display and the handheld controller.

[0090] Example 16: A system according to any of Examples 11 to 15, wherein communication between the head-mounted display and the handheld controller includes a cross-body link through at least a portion of the user's body.

[0091] Example 17: A system according to any of Examples 11 to 16, wherein the radiating element and the conductive via form a perpendicular radiation field relative to the user's body.

[0092] Example 18: A method of manufacturing may include providing a radiating element formed as an open loop, the radiating element including at least a first portion and a second portion positioned relative to each other; providing a conductive via connecting the first portion and the opposing second portion of the radiating element; and assembling an antenna feed within the conductive via. The first portion of the radiating element is shorter in length than the opposing second portion of the radiating element, and wherein the difference in length between the first portion and the second portion of the radiating element forms a capacitive gap across the radiating element.

[0093] Example 19: The manufacturing method according to Example 18, wherein the radiating element is formed by a plurality of open loop antennas arranged parallel to each other.

[0094] Example 20: The manufacturing method according to Example 18 or Example 19, wherein the radiating element, the conductive via and the antenna feed are arranged on a printed circuit board.

[0095] The various embodiments of the present disclosure may include various types of artificial reality systems, or be implemented in combination with various types of artificial reality systems. Artificial reality is a form of reality that has been adjusted in some way before being presented to the user. Artificial reality may include, for example, virtual reality, augmented reality, mixed reality, hybrid reality, or some combination and / or derivative thereof. Artificial reality content may include fully computer-generated content or computer-generated content combined with collected (e.g., real-world) content. Artificial reality content may include video, audio, tactile feedback, or some combination thereof, any of which may be presented in a single channel or multiple channels (e.g., stereoscopic video that produces a three-dimensional (3D) effect to the viewer). In addition, in some embodiments, artificial reality may also be associated with applications, products, accessories, services, or some combination thereof, which are used, for example, to create content in artificial reality, and / or to be used in artificial reality in other ways (e.g., to perform activities in artificial reality).

[0096] Artificial reality systems can be implemented in a variety of different form factors and configurations. Some artificial reality systems can be designed to work without a near-eye display (NED). Other artificial reality systems can include a NED that also provides visibility of the real world (e.g., Fig.13 1300) or an NED that visually immerses a user in an artificial reality (e.g., Fig.14 1400 in the virtual reality system 1400). Although some artificial reality devices may be stand-alone systems, other artificial reality devices may communicate and / or cooperate with external devices to provide an artificial reality experience to a user. Examples of such external devices include handheld controllers, mobile devices, desktop computers, devices worn by a user, devices worn by one or more other users, and / or any other suitable external system.

[0097] Go to Fig.13 , the augmented reality system 1300 may include an eyewear device 1302 having a frame 1310, which is configured to hold a left display device 1315(A) and a right display device 1315(B) in front of the user's eyes. The display device 1315(A) and the display device 1315(B) may act together or independently to present an image or a series of images to the user. Although the augmented reality system 1300 includes two displays, the various embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented in an augmented reality system having a single NED or more than two NEDs.

[0098] In some embodiments, the augmented reality system 1300 may include one or more sensors, such as sensor 1340. Sensor 1340 may generate a measurement signal in response to the movement of the augmented reality system 1300 and may be located on substantially any portion of the frame 1310. Sensor 1340 may represent one or more of a variety of different sensing mechanisms, such as a position sensor, an inertial measurement unit (IMU), a depth camera assembly, a structured light emitter and / or detector, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the augmented reality system 1300 may or may not include sensor 1340, or may include more than one sensor. In embodiments where sensor 1340 includes an IMU, the IMU may generate calibration data based on the measurement signal from sensor 1340. Examples of sensor 1340 may include, but are not limited to, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a magnetometer, other suitable types of sensors that detect movement, sensors for error correction of an IMU, or some combination thereof.

[0099] In some examples, the augmented reality system 1300 may also include a microphone array having a plurality of acoustic transducers 1320(A) to 1320(J), which are collectively referred to as acoustic transducers 1320. Acoustic transducer 1320 may represent a transducer that detects changes in air pressure caused by sound waves. Each acoustic transducer 1320 may be configured to detect sound and convert the detected sound into an electronic format (e.g., an analog format or a digital format). Fig.13 The microphone array in may, for example, include ten acoustic transducers: 1320(A) and 1320(B) which may be designed to be placed in corresponding ears of the user, acoustic transducers 1320(C), 1320(D), 1320(E), 1320(F), 1320(G) and 1320(H) which may be arranged at different positions on the frame 1310, and / or acoustic transducers 1320(I) and 1320(J) which may be arranged on the corresponding neckband 1305.

[0100] In some embodiments, one or more of acoustic transducers 1320(A) to 1320(J) may be used as an output transducer (e.g., a speaker). For example, acoustic transducers 1320(A) and / or 1320(B) may be earbuds, or any other suitable type of earphone or speaker.

[0101] The configuration of the acoustic transducers 1320 of the microphone array may vary. Fig.131310, but the number of acoustic transducers 1320 can be more than ten or less than ten. In some embodiments, the use of a larger number of acoustic transducers 1320 can increase the amount of audio information collected and / or the sensitivity and accuracy of the audio information. In contrast, the use of a smaller number of acoustic transducers 1320 can reduce the computing power required for the associated controller 1350 to process the collected audio information. In addition, the position of each acoustic transducer 1320 of the microphone array can vary. For example, the position of the acoustic transducer 1320 can include a defined position on the user, a defined coordinate on the frame 1310, an orientation associated with each acoustic transducer 1320, or some combination thereof.

[0102] The acoustic transducers 1320(A) and 1320(B) can be positioned at different parts of the user's ear, such as behind the pinna, behind the tragus, and / or in the auricle or ear cavity. Alternatively, in addition to the acoustic transducer 1320 in the ear canal, additional acoustic transducers 1320 can be present on or around the ear. Positioning the acoustic transducer 1320 next to the user's ear canal can enable the microphone array to collect information about how sound reaches the ear canal. By arranging at least two of the multiple acoustic transducers 1320 on both sides of the user's head (e.g., as binaural microphones), the augmented reality system 1300 can simulate binaural hearing and capture a 3D stereo sound field around the user's head. In some embodiments, acoustic transducers 1320(A) and 1320(B) may be connected to augmented reality system 1300 via wired connection 1330, while in other embodiments, acoustic transducers 1320(A) and 1320(B) may be connected to augmented reality system 1300 via a wireless connection (e.g., a Bluetooth connection). In other embodiments, acoustic transducers 1320(A) and 1320(B) may not be used in conjunction with augmented reality system 1300 at all.

[0103] The plurality of acoustic transducers 1320 on the frame 1310 may be positioned in a variety of different ways, including along the length of the temples, across the bridge of the nose, above or below the display device 1315(A) and the display device 1315(B), or some combination thereof. The plurality of acoustic transducers 1320 may also be oriented so that the microphone array can detect sounds in a wide range of directions around the user who is wearing the augmented reality system 1300. In some embodiments, an optimization process may be performed during the manufacture of the augmented reality system 1300 to determine the relative positioning of each acoustic transducer 1320 in the microphone array.

[0104] In some examples, the augmented reality system 1300 may include or be connected to an external device (e.g., a paired device), such as a neckband 1305. Neckband 1305 generally represents any type or form of paired device. Therefore, the following discussion of neckband 1305 may also be applied to various other paired devices, such as charging boxes, smart watches, smart phones, wristbands, other wearable devices, handheld controllers, tablet computers, laptop computers, other external computing devices, etc.

[0105] As shown, the neckband 1305 can be coupled to the eyeglass device 1302 via one or more connectors. The connectors can be wired or wireless and can include electronic and / or non-electronic (e.g., structural) components. In some cases, the eyeglass device 1302 and the neckband 1305 can operate independently without any wired or wireless connection between them. Although Fig.13 The components in the eyeglass device 1302 and the neckband 1305 are shown as being located at example locations on the eyeglass device 1302 and the neckband 1305, but the components may be located at other locations on the eyeglass device 1302 and / or the neckband 1305 and / or distributed in different ways on the eyeglass device and / or the neckband. In some embodiments, the components in the eyeglass device 1302 and the neckband 1305 may be located on one or more additional peripheral devices that are paired with the eyeglass device 1302, the neckband 1305, or some combination thereof.

[0106] Pairing an external device (e.g., a neckband 1305) with an augmented reality eyewear device can enable the eyewear device to achieve the form factor of a pair of glasses while still providing sufficient battery power and computing power for the expanded capabilities. Some or all of the battery power, computing resources, and / or additional features of the augmented reality system 1300 can be provided by a paired device, or shared between a paired device and the eyewear device, thereby reducing the weight, heat distribution, and form factor of the eyewear device as a whole while still retaining the desired functionality. For example, since users can bear a heavier weight load on their shoulders than they bear on their heads, the neckband 1305 can allow multiple components that would otherwise be included on the eyewear device to be included in the neckband 1305. The neckband 1305 can also have a larger surface area through which heat is diffused and dissipated to the surrounding environment. Therefore, compared to the battery power and computing power that are otherwise feasible on a standalone eyewear device, the neckband 1305 can allow for greater battery power and greater computing power. Because the weight carried in the neckband 1305 can be less intrusive to the user than the weight carried in the eyeglass device 1302, the user can tolerate wearing a lighter eyeglass device and carrying or wearing a paired device for longer periods of time than the user could tolerate wearing a heavy stand-alone eyeglass device, thereby enabling the user to more fully integrate the artificial reality environment into their daily activities.

[0107] The neckband 1305 can be communicatively coupled to the eyewear device 1302 and / or communicatively coupled to other devices. These other devices can provide certain functions (e.g., tracking, positioning, depth mapping, processing, storage, etc.) to the augmented reality system 1300. Fig.13 In an embodiment of the present invention, the neckband 1305 may include two acoustic transducers (e.g., 1320 (I) and 1320 (J)) that are part of a microphone array (or potentially form their own microphone subarray). The neckband 1305 may also include a controller 1325 and a power supply 1335.

[0108] The acoustic transducers 1320(I) and 1320(J) of the neckband 1305 may be configured to detect sound and convert the detected sound into an electronic format (analog or digital). Fig.13In an embodiment of the present invention, the acoustic transducers 1320(I) and 1320(J) can be positioned on the neckband 1305, thereby increasing the distance between the neckband acoustic transducers 1320(I) and 1320(J) and other acoustic transducers 1320 positioned on the eyeglass device 1302. In some cases, increasing the distance between the acoustic transducers 1320 of the microphone array can improve the accuracy of the beamforming performed by the microphone array. For example, if the acoustic transducers 1320(C) and 1320(D) detect a sound, and the distance between the acoustic transducer 1320(C) and the acoustic transducer 1320(D) is greater than the distance between the acoustic transducer 1320(D) and the acoustic transducer 1320(E), the determined source location of the detected sound can be more accurate than when the sound is detected by the acoustic transducers 1320(D) and 1320(E).

[0109] The controller 1325 of the neckband 1305 can process information generated by multiple sensors on the neckband 1305 and / or the augmented reality system 1300. For example, the controller 1325 can process information from a microphone array describing the sound detected by the microphone array. For each detected sound, the controller 1325 can perform a direction of arrival (DOA) estimation to estimate from which direction the detected sound arrives at the microphone array. When the microphone array detects a sound, the controller 1325 can fill the audio data set with this information. In an embodiment where the augmented reality system 1300 includes an inertial measurement unit, the controller 1325 can calculate all inertial calculations and spatial calculations from the IMU located on the eyeglass device 1302. The connector can transmit information between the augmented reality system 1300 and the neckband 1305, and between the augmented reality system 1300 and the controller 1325. The information can be in the form of optical data, electronic data, wireless data, or any other transmittable data. Moving the processing of information generated by the augmented reality system 1300 to the neckband 1305 can reduce the weight and heat of the eyeglass device 1302, making the eyeglass device 1302 more comfortable for the user.

[0110] The power supply 1335 in the neckband 1305 can provide power to the eyeglass device 1302 and / or the neckband 1305. The power supply 1335 can include, but is not limited to, a lithium-ion battery, a lithium-polymer battery, a primary lithium battery, an alkaline battery, or any other form of power storage device. In some cases, the power supply 1335 can be a wired power supply. Including the power supply 1335 on the neckband 1305 instead of on the eyeglass device 1302 can help better distribute the weight and heat generated by the power supply 1335.

[0111] As described above, some artificial reality systems may substantially replace one or more of a user's multiple sensory perceptions of the real world with a virtual experience, rather than blending the artificial reality with the real reality. An example of this type of system is a head-mounted display system that covers most or all of the user's field of view, such as Fig.14 1400. The virtual reality system 1400 may include a front rigid body 1402 and a band 1404 shaped to fit around the user's head. The virtual reality system 1400 may also include output audio transducers 1406 (A) and 1406 (B). In addition, although Fig.14 Not shown, but front rigid body 1402 may include one or more electronic components including one or more electronic displays, one or more inertial measurement units (IMUs), one or more tracking transmitters or detectors, and / or any other suitable device or system for creating an artificial reality experience.

[0112] Artificial reality systems may include various types of visual feedback mechanisms. For example, the display devices in the augmented reality system 1300 and / or the virtual reality system 1400 may include one or more liquid crystal displays (LCD), one or more light emitting diode (LED) displays, one or more micro LED (microLED) displays, one or more organic LED (OLED) displays, one or more digital light projection (DLP) micro displays, one or more liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS) micro displays and / or any other suitable type of display screen. These artificial reality systems may include a single display screen for both eyes, or a display screen may be provided for each eye, which may provide additional flexibility for zoom adjustment or for correcting the user's refractive error. Some of these artificial reality systems may also include multiple optical subsystems having one or more lenses (e.g., concave or convex lenses, Fresnel lenses, adjustable liquid lenses, etc.), through which the user can view the display screen. These optical subsystems can be used for a variety of purposes, including collimating light (e.g., making an object appear to be at a greater distance than it is physically at), magnifying light (e.g., making an object appear larger than its actual size), and / or delivering light (e.g., delivering light to a viewer's eye). These optical subsystems can be used in a non-pupil-forming architecture (e.g., a single lens architecture that directly collimates light but produces so-called pincushion distortion) and / or a non-pupil-forming architecture (e.g., a multi-lens architecture that produces so-called barrel distortion to eliminate pincushion distortion).

[0113] In addition to or instead of using a display screen, some of the artificial reality systems described herein may include one or more projection systems. For example, the display device in the augmented reality system 1300 and / or the virtual reality system 1400 may include a micro LED projector that projects light into the display device (e.g., using a waveguide), such as a transparent combination lens that allows ambient light to pass through. The display device can refract the projected light into the user's pupil, and can enable the user to simultaneously view both the artificial reality content and the real world. The display device can achieve this using any of a variety of different optical components, including waveguide elements (e.g., holographic waveguide elements, planar waveguide elements, diffraction waveguide elements, polarization waveguide elements, and / or reflection waveguide elements), light manipulation surfaces and elements (e.g., diffraction elements and gratings, reflection elements and gratings, and refraction elements and gratings), coupling elements, etc. The artificial reality system can also be configured to have any other suitable type or form of image projection system, such as a retinal projector used in a virtual retinal display.

[0114] The artificial reality systems described herein may also include various types of computer vision components and subsystems. For example, the augmented reality system 1300 and / or the virtual reality system 1400 may include one or more optical sensors, such as two-dimensional (2D) or 3D cameras, structured light emitters and detectors, time-of-flight depth sensors, single-beam or scanning laser rangefinders, 3D laser radar (3D LiDAR) sensors, and / or any other suitable type or form of optical sensor, etc. The artificial reality system may process data from one or more of these sensors to identify the user's location, map the real world, provide the user with context about the real-world surroundings, and / or perform various other functions.

[0115] The artificial reality system described herein may also include one or more input and / or output audio transducers. The output audio transducer may include a voice coil speaker, a ribbon speaker, an electrostatic speaker, a piezoelectric speaker, a bone conduction transducer, a cartilage conduction transducer, an ear tragus vibration transducer, and / or any other suitable type or form of audio transducer. Similarly, the input audio transducer may include a condenser microphone, a dynamic microphone, a ribbon microphone, and / or any other type or form of input transducer. In some embodiments, a single transducer may be used for both audio input and audio output.

[0116] In some embodiments, the artificial reality system described herein may also include a tactile (i.e., haptic) feedback system that can be incorporated into headwear, gloves, clothing, handheld controllers, environmental equipment (e.g., chairs, floor mats, etc.), and / or any other type of device or system. The tactile feedback system can provide various types of skin feedback, including vibration, thrust, traction, texture, and / or temperature. The tactile feedback system can also provide various types of kinesthetic feedback, such as motion and compliance. Tactile feedback can be implemented using motors, piezoelectric actuators, fluid systems, and / or various other types of feedback mechanisms. The tactile feedback system can be implemented independently of other artificial reality devices, implemented within other artificial reality devices, and / or implemented in combination with other artificial reality devices.

[0117] By providing tactile perception, auditory content, and / or visual content, artificial reality systems can create complete virtual experiences or enhance users' real-world experiences in various contexts and environments. For example, artificial reality systems can help or expand users' perception, memory, or cognition within a specific environment. Some systems can enhance users' interactions with other people in the real world, or can enable more immersive interactions with other people in the virtual world. Artificial reality systems can also be used for educational purposes (e.g., for teaching or training in schools, hospitals, government organizations, military organizations, commercial enterprises, etc.), entertainment purposes (e.g., for playing video games, listening to music, watching video content, etc.), and / or for accessibility purposes (e.g., as hearing aids, visual aids, etc.). The various embodiments disclosed herein can implement or enhance users' artificial reality experiences in one or more of these contexts and environments, and / or in other contexts and environments.

[0118] As described above, artificial reality systems 1300 and 1400 can be used with various other types of devices to provide a more engaging artificial reality experience. These devices can be tactile interfaces with multiple transducers that provide tactile feedback and / or collect tactile information about the user's interaction with the environment. Each artificial reality system disclosed herein can include various types of tactile interfaces that detect or transmit various types of tactile information, including tactile feedback (e.g., feedback perceived by the user through nerves in the skin, which feedback may also be referred to as skin feedback) and / or kinesthetic feedback (e.g., feedback perceived by the user through receptors located in muscles, joints, and / or tendons).

[0119] Haptic feedback may be provided by interfaces located within the user's environment (e.g., a chair, table, floor, etc.) and / or by interfaces on items that may be worn or carried by the user (e.g., gloves, wristbands, etc.). As an example, Fig.15 A vibrotactile system 1500 in the form of a wearable glove (haptic device 1510) and a wristband (haptic device 1520) is shown. The haptic device 1510 and the haptic device 1520 are shown as examples of wearable devices including a flexible wearable textile material 1530, which is shaped and configured to be positioned against the user's hand and wrist, respectively. The present disclosure also includes a vibrotactile system that can be shaped and configured to be positioned against other human body parts (e.g., fingers, arms, head, torso, feet, or legs, etc.). As an example and not a limitation, the haptic vibration system according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can also be in the form of a glove, a headband, an armband, a sleeve, a head covering, a sock, a shirt or pants, and other possibilities. In some examples, the term "textile" can include any flexible wearable material, including woven fabrics, non-woven fabrics, leather, cloth, flexible polymer materials, composite materials, etc.

[0120] One or more vibrotactile devices 1540 can be positioned at least partially within one or more corresponding pockets formed in the textile material 1530 of the vibrotactile system 1500. The vibrotactile devices 1540 can be positioned at locations that provide a vibration sensation (e.g., tactile feedback) to a user of the vibrotactile system 1500. For example, Fig.15 As shown, the vibrotactile device 1540 can be positioned against one or more fingers, thumbs, or wrists of the user. In some examples, the vibrotactile device 1540 can be flexible enough to conform to one or more corresponding body parts of the user, or bend with one or more corresponding body parts of the user.

[0121] A power source 1550 (e.g., a battery) for applying voltage to the plurality of vibrotactile devices 1540 for activating the vibrotactile devices may be electrically coupled to the vibrotactile devices 1540 (e.g., via wires 1552). In some examples, each of the plurality of vibrotactile devices 1540 may be independently electrically coupled to the power source 1550 for individual activation. In some embodiments, a processor 1560 may be operably coupled to the power source 1550 and configured (e.g., programmed) to control activation of the plurality of vibrotactile devices 1540.

[0122] The vibrotactile system 1500 can be implemented in a variety of ways. In some examples, the vibrotactile system 1500 can be an independent system with multiple integrated subsystems and multiple components to operate independently of other devices and systems. As another example, the vibrotactile system 1500 can be configured to interact with another device or system 1570. For example, in some examples, the vibrotactile system 1500 may include a communication interface 1580, which is used to receive signals and / or send signals to another device or system 1570. The other device or system 1570 can be a mobile device, a game console, an artificial reality (e.g., virtual reality, augmented reality, mixed reality) device, a personal computer, a tablet computer, a network device (e.g., a modem, a router, etc.), a handheld controller, etc. The communication interface 1580 can enable communication between the vibrotactile system 1500 and the other device or system 1570 via a wireless (e.g., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular, radio, etc.) link or a wired link. If present, the communication interface 1580 may communicate with the processor 1560 , for example, to provide signals to the processor 1560 to activate or deactivate one or more of the plurality of vibrotactile devices 1540 .

[0123] The vibrotactile system 1500 may optionally include other subsystems and components, such as a touch sensing pad 1590, a pressure sensor, a motion sensor, a position sensor, an illumination element, and / or a user interface element (e.g., an on / off button, a vibration control element, etc.). During use, the vibrotactile device 1540 may be configured to be activated for a variety of different reasons, such as in response to: a user's interaction with a user interface element; a signal from a motion sensor or a position sensor; a signal from the touch sensing pad 1590; a signal from a pressure sensor; a signal from another device or system 1570, etc.

[0124] Despite Fig.15 15 is shown as being located in the haptic device 1520, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, one or more of the power supply 1550, the processor 1560, or the communication interface 1580 may be located within the haptic device 1510 or within another wearable textile.

[0125] Haptic wearable devices (e.g. Fig.15 As shown and combined Fig.15 Haptic wearable devices such as those described can be implemented in various types of artificial reality systems and environments. Fig.16An example artificial reality environment 1600 is shown that includes a head-mounted virtual reality display and two haptic devices (i.e., gloves), and in other embodiments, any number of these components and other components, and / or any combination of these components and other components may be included in the artificial reality system. For example, in some embodiments, there may be multiple head-mounted displays, each head-mounted display having an associated haptic device, where each head-mounted display and each haptic device communicate with the same console, the same portable computing device, or the same other computing system.

[0126] Head mounted display 1602 generally represents any type or form of virtual reality system, such as Fig.14 1400 in the virtual reality system 1400. The haptic device 1604 generally represents any type or form of wearable device worn by a user of the artificial reality system, which provides tactile feedback to the user to give the user the perception that he or she is in physical contact with a virtual object. In some embodiments, the haptic device 1604 can provide tactile feedback by applying vibration, motion and / or thrust to the user. For example, the haptic device 1604 can limit or enhance the user's movement. To give a specific example, the haptic device 1604 can limit the forward movement of the user's hand so that the user feels that his or her hand has been in physical contact with a virtual wall. In this specific example, one or more actuators in the haptic device can achieve physical movement restriction by pumping fluid into the inflatable bladder of the haptic device. In some examples, the user can also use the haptic device 1604 to send an action request to the console. Examples of action requests include, but are not limited to, requests to start and / or end applications, and / or requests to perform specific actions within an application.

[0127] Despite Fig.16 As shown, tactile interfaces can be used with virtual reality systems, but as Fig.17 As shown, tactile interfaces can also be used with augmented reality systems. Fig.17 17 is a stereoscopic diagram of a user 1710 interacting with an augmented reality system 1700. In this example, the user 1710 may wear a pair of augmented reality glasses 1720, which may have one or more displays 1722 and be paired with a haptic device 1730. In this example, the haptic device 1730 may be a wristband including a plurality of strap elements 1732 and a tension mechanism 1734 connecting the strap elements 1732 to each other.

[0128] One or more of the plurality of band elements 1732 may include any type or form of actuator suitable for providing tactile feedback. For example, one or more of the plurality of band elements 1732 may be configured to provide one or more types of skin feedback in various types of skin feedback, including vibration, thrust, pull, texture and / or temperature. In order to provide such feedback, the plurality of band elements 1732 may include one or more types of actuators in various types of actuators. In one example, each of the plurality of band elements 1732 may include a vibrotactile (e.g., a vibrotactile actuator) configured to vibrate jointly or independently to provide one or more types of tactile perceptions in various types of tactile perceptions to the user. Alternatively, only a single band element or a subset of the plurality of band elements may include a vibrotactile.

[0129] The haptic devices 1510, 1520, 1604, and 1730 may include any suitable number and / or type of tactile transducers, sensors, and / or feedback mechanisms. For example, the haptic devices 1510, 1520, 1604, and 1730 may include one or more mechanical transducers, one or more piezoelectric transducers, and / or one or more fluid transducers. The haptic devices 1510, 1520, 1604, and 1730 may also include various combinations of transducers of different types and forms that work together or independently to enhance the user's artificial reality experience. In one example, each of the multiple band elements 1732 of the haptic device 1730 may include a vibrating tactile (e.g., a vibrating tactile actuator) that is configured to vibrate jointly or independently to provide the user with one or more types of tactile perceptions of various types of tactile perceptions.

[0130] Fig.18A An exemplary human-machine interface (also referred to herein as an electromyogram (EMG) control interface) is shown, which is configured to be worn around the lower arm or wrist of a user as a wearable system 1800. In this example, the wearable system 1800 may include 16 neuromuscular sensors 1810 (e.g., EMG sensors) arranged circumferentially around an elastic band 1820, and the wearable system 1800 has an inner surface configured to contact the user's skin. However, any suitable number of neuromuscular sensors may be used. The number and arrangement of neuromuscular sensors may depend on the specific application of the wearable device used. For example, a wearable armband or wristband may be used to generate control information for controlling an augmented reality system, controlling a robot, controlling a vehicle, scrolling text, controlling a virtual avatar, or controlling any other suitable control task. As shown, these sensors may be coupled together using flexible electronics incorporated into a wireless device. Fig.18B Shown by Fig.18A A cross-sectional view of one of the multiple sensors of the wearable device shown in . In some embodiments, hardware signal processing circuitry may optionally be used to process the output of one or more of the multiple sensing components (e.g., to perform amplification, filtering, and / or rectification). In other embodiments, at least some of the signal processing of the output of the sensing component may be performed in software. Thus, signal processing of the signal sampled by the sensor may be performed in hardware, software, or by any suitable combination of hardware and software, as the aspects of the technology described herein are not limited in this respect. Reference is made below to Fig.19A and Fig.19B A non-limiting example of a signal processing chain for processing recorded data from sensor 1810 is discussed in more detail.

[0131] Fig.19A and Fig.19B An exemplary schematic diagram of multiple internal components of a wearable system with an EMG sensor is shown. As shown, the wearable system may include a wearable portion 1910 ( Fig.19A ) and adapter portion 1920( Fig.19B ), the adapter portion 1920 communicates with the wearable portion 1910 (e.g., via Bluetooth or another suitable wireless communication technology). Fig.19A As shown, the wearable portion 1910 may include a plurality of skin contact electrodes 1911, combined with Fig.18A and Fig.18B Examples of these skin contact electrodes 1911 are described. The outputs of multiple skin contact electrodes 1911 can be provided to analog front end 1930, which can be configured to perform analog processing (e.g., amplification, noise reduction, filtering, etc.) on the recorded signals. The processed analog signals can then be provided to analog-to-digital converter 1932, which can convert these analog signals into digital signals that can be processed by one or more computer processors. According to some embodiments, examples of computer processors that can be used are Fig.19A 1934. As shown, the MCU 1934 may also include inputs from other sensors (e.g., IMU sensor 1940) and from a power and battery module 1942. The output of the processing performed by the MCU 1934 may be provided to an antenna 1950 to provide a signal to the antenna 1950. Fig.19B The adapter portion 1920 shown in FIG.

[0132] The adapter portion 1920 may include an antenna 1952 that may be configured to communicate with an antenna 1950 included as part of the wearable portion 1910. Communication between the antenna 1950 and the antenna 1952 may be performed using any suitable wireless technology and protocol, non-limiting examples of which include radio frequency signaling and Bluetooth. As shown, signals received by the antenna 1952 of the adapter portion 1920 may be provided to a host computer for further processing, display, and / or for use in enabling control of one or more specific physical or virtual objects.

[0133] Although reference Fig.18A and Fig.18B as well as Fig.19A and Fig.19B The examples provided are discussed in the context of an interface with an EMG sensor, but the techniques described herein for reducing electromagnetic interference may also be implemented in wearable interfaces with other types of sensors, including but not limited to mechanomyography (MMG) sensors, sonomyography (SMG) sensors, and electrical impedance tomography (EIT) sensors. The techniques described herein for reducing electromagnetic interference may also be implemented in a wearable interface that communicates with a computer host via wires and cables (e.g., USB cables, fiber optic cables, etc.).

[0134] As detailed above, the computing devices and systems described and / or illustrated herein generally represent any type or form of computing device or system capable of executing computer-readable instructions (e.g., those contained in the modules described herein). In the most basic configuration of one or more computing devices, each of the one or more computing devices may each include at least one storage device and at least one physical processor.

[0135] In some examples, the term "storage device" generally refers to any type or form of volatile or non-volatile storage device or medium capable of storing data and / or computer-readable instructions. In one example, a storage device can store, load and / or maintain one or more modules described herein. Examples of storage devices include, but are not limited to, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, hard disk drive (HDD), solid-state drive (SSD), optical disk drive, cache memory, a variation or combination of one or more of the above, or any other suitable storage memory.

[0136] In some examples, the term "physical processor" generally refers to any type or form of hardware-implemented processing unit capable of interpreting and / or executing computer-readable instructions. In one example, the physical processor can access and / or modify one or more modules stored in the above-mentioned storage device. Examples of physical processors include, but are not limited to, microprocessors, microcontrollers, central processing units (CPUs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) that implement soft-core processors, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), parts of one or more of the above, variations or combinations of one or more of the above, or any other suitable physical processors.

[0137] Although the multiple modules described and / or shown herein are shown as separate elements, these modules can represent parts of a single module or application. In addition, in some embodiments, one or more of these modules can represent one or more software applications or programs, which, when executed by a computing device, can cause the computing device to perform one or more tasks. For example, one or more of the multiple modules described and / or shown herein can represent such modules: these modules are stored on one or more computing devices or systems in the multiple computing devices or systems described and / or shown herein, and are configured to run on one or more computing devices or systems in the multiple computing devices or systems described and / or shown herein. One or more of these modules can also represent all or part of one or more special-purpose computers configured to perform one or more tasks.

[0138] In addition, one or more of the modules described herein can convert data, physical devices, and / or representations of physical devices from one form to another. For example, one or more of the modules set forth herein can receive data to be converted, convert the data, output the conversion results, and store the conversion results. Additionally or alternatively, one or more of the modules set forth herein can convert a processor, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, and / or any other part of a physical computing device from one form to another by executing on a computing device, storing data on a computing device, and / or otherwise interacting with a computing device.

[0139] In some embodiments, the term "computer-readable medium" generally refers to any form of device, carrier or medium capable of storing or carrying computer-readable instructions. Examples of computer-readable media include, but are not limited to, transmission-type media and non-transitory media, such as carrier waves, such as magnetic storage media (e.g., hard disk drives, tape drives, and floppy disks), optical storage media (e.g., compact disks (CDs), digital video disks (DVDs), and Blu-ray disks), electronic storage media (e.g., solid-state drives and flash memory media), and other distribution systems.

[0140] The process parameters and step sequences described and / or shown herein are provided by way of example only and may be changed as desired. For example, although the multiple steps shown and / or described herein may be shown or discussed in a particular order, these steps do not necessarily need to be performed in the order shown or discussed. The various exemplary methods described and / or shown herein may also omit one or more of the steps described or shown herein, or may include additional steps in addition to those disclosed.

[0141] The previous description has been provided to enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the various aspects of the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein. This exemplary description is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to any precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive. The attached claims and their equivalents should be referenced when determining the scope of the present disclosure.

[0142] Unless otherwise stated, the terms "connected to" and "coupled to" (and their derivatives) as used in the specification and claims will be interpreted as allowing both direct and indirect connections (i.e., via other elements or components). In addition, the terms "a" or "an" as used in the specification and claims will be interpreted as meaning "at least one of..." Finally, for ease of use, the terms "including" and "having" (and their derivatives) as used in the specification and claims may be interchangeable with the word "comprising" and have the same meaning as the word "comprising".

Claims

1. A magnetic dipole antenna, comprising: a radiating element, the radiating element being formed as an open ring, the radiating element comprising at least a first portion and a second portion positioned opposite to each other; a conductive via connecting the first portion and the opposite second portion of the radiating element; as well as an antenna feed source, the antenna feed source being arranged in the conductive via, wherein the first portion of the radiating element is shorter in length than the opposite second portion of the radiating element, and Wherein a length difference between the first portion and the second portion of the radiating element forms a capacitive gap across the radiating element.

2. The magnetic dipole antenna according to claim 1, wherein: The radiation element is rectangular and has a third portion and a fourth portion that are arranged opposite to each other and parallel to the conductive via.

3. The magnetic dipole antenna according to claim 2, wherein: The rectangular radiating element comprises a plurality of small loop antennas fused together.

4. The magnetic dipole antenna according to claim 2, wherein: The rectangular radiating element comprises a longer side and a shorter side, and wherein the capacitive gap formed across the radiating element is on the shorter side of the rectangle.

5. The magnetic dipole antenna according to claim 2, wherein: The rectangular radiating element comprises a longer side and a shorter side, and wherein the capacitive gap formed across the radiating element is on the longer side of the rectangle.

6. A magnetic dipole antenna according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The radiating element is positioned adjacent to at least one of a printed circuit board (PCB) or a thermal shield.

7. A magnetic dipole antenna according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The first portion and the opposing second portion of the radiating element are linked via the conductive via and at least a first row of conductive vias.

8. The magnetic dipole antenna according to claim 7, wherein: The first portion and the opposing second portion of the radiating element are linked via the conductive vias, the first row of conductive vias, and a second row of conductive vias, wherein the second row of conductive vias is shorter than the first row of conductive vias.

9. The magnetic dipole antenna according to claim 8, wherein: The shorter second row of conductive vias forms a gap between the first portion of the radiating element and the second row of conductive vias; and / or preferably, wherein the respective conductive vias of the plurality of conductive vias of the second row of conductive vias are linked to each other via conductive material.

10. A system comprising: a radiating element, the radiating element being formed as an open ring, the radiating element comprising at least a first portion and a second portion positioned opposite to each other; a conductive via connecting the first portion and the opposite second portion of the radiating element; as well as an antenna feed source, the antenna feed source being arranged in the conductive via, wherein the first portion of the radiating element is shorter in length than the opposite second portion of the radiating element, and Wherein a length difference between the first portion and the second portion of the radiating element forms a capacitive gap across the radiating element.

11. The system according to claim 10, wherein: The radiating element, the conductive via, and the antenna feed are disposed within at least one mobile electronic device.

12. The system according to claim 11, wherein: The at least one mobile electronic device includes a head mounted display device.

13. The system according to claim 11 or 12, wherein: The at least one mobile electronic device comprises a head-mounted display device and a handheld controller; and / or preferably, wherein the radiating element, the conductive via and the antenna feed facilitate communication between the head-mounted display and the handheld controller; and / or preferably, wherein the communication between the head-mounted display and the handheld controller comprises a cross-body link through at least a portion of a user's body; and / or preferably, wherein the radiating element and the conductive via form a perpendicular radiation field relative to the user's body.

14. A manufacturing method comprising: providing a radiating element formed as an open ring, the radiating element comprising at least a first portion and a second portion positioned opposite each other; providing a conductive via connecting the first portion and the opposing second portion of the radiating element; as well as Assembling an antenna feed in the conductive via, wherein the first portion of the radiating element is shorter in length than the opposite second portion of the radiating element, and Wherein a length difference between the first portion and the second portion of the radiating element forms a capacitive gap across the radiating element.

15. The manufacturing method according to claim 14, wherein: The radiating element is formed by a plurality of open loop antennas arranged parallel to each other; and / or preferably, wherein the radiating element, the conductive vias and the antenna feed are arranged on a printed circuit board.

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