Electronic device

Abstract

The invention relates to an electronic device. A head-mountable device includes a display portion, a face engagement portion, a stiffness profile modifier, a sensor, and a fixation assembly. The display portion includes a display. The face joint has a variable stiffness profile. The stiffness profile modifier is configured to automatically change the facial joint from having a first stiffness profile to having a second stiffness profile in response to sensor data. The sensor is configured to generate the sensor distribution data. The securing assembly is connectable to the display portion. The securing assembly includes a removable strip and a retaining strip connectable to the removable strip. The removable strip includes an electronic device.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 517,548, filed on August 3, 2023, and entitled “Electronic Device,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The embodiments generally relate to electronic devices. More specifically, the embodiments relate to adjustable features of wearable electronic devices. Background Art

[0004] Recent advances in portable computing have enabled head-mounted devices to provide augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) experiences to users. Such head-mounted devices may include various components, such as displays, view frames, lenses, batteries, motors, speakers, and other components. These components may operate together to provide an immersive user experience. Specifically, the head-mounted device includes components that help provide a distraction-free environment by blocking or blocking the external environment (e.g., ambient light).

[0005] The goal of a head-mountable device is long-term and comfortable use, even if each user has a unique facial contour and thus different engagement points. Therefore, a head-mountable device that can dynamically adjust for comfortable long-term use is desired. Summary of the invention

[0006] In one example, a head-mountable device includes a display portion, a facial joint, a stiffness profile modifier, a sensor, and a fixed component. The display portion includes a display. The facial joint is connected to the display portion and includes a variable stiffness profile. The head-mountable device also includes: a sensor configured to generate sensor data; and a stiffness profile modifier connected to the sensor and configured to change the facial joint from a first stiffness profile to a second stiffness profile in response to the sensor data from the sensor.

[0007] In at least one example, the head mountable device may include a removable strap and a retaining strap connectable to the removable strap. The removable strap may include electronics. In some examples, the facial joint includes a thermally reactive foam, the sensor is disposed in the facial joint, and the stiffness profile modifier is a heater. Additionally, in some examples, the first stiffness profile has a first configuration of a first reinforcement region and a first relaxation region, and the second stiffness profile has a second reinforcement region different from the first reinforcement region and a second relaxation region different from the first relaxation region.

[0008] In at least one example, at least one of the first stiffness profile or the second stiffness profile is based on user activity.

[0009] In at least one example, the stiffness profile modifier utilizes an induced temperature flux to change the face joint from having the first stiffness profile to having the second stiffness profile.

[0010] In at least one example, the stiffness profile modifier can include a pump.

[0011] In at least one example, the stiffness profile modifier is further configured to change the facial joint from the second stiffness profile to a third stiffness profile in response to additional sensor data.

[0012] In at least one example, the head mountable device includes a manual control to actuate the stiffness profile modifier.

[0013] In at least one example, the sensor is a timer.

[0014] In at least one example, the sensor is positioned on or within the face engaging portion.

[0015] In one example, a device includes a display portion, a facial engagement structure, a tensioner, a first sensor, and a second sensor. The display portion includes a display. The facial engagement structure has a first modifiable pressure region and a second modifiable pressure region. The tensioner may include at least one of a mechanical tensioner or a pneumatic tensioner connected to the first modifiable pressure region and the second modifiable pressure region. The first sensor is configured to generate first sensor data, and the second sensor is configured to generate second sensor data. The tensioner is configured to actuate when the first sensor data meets a first threshold criterion and the second sensor data meets a second threshold criterion.

[0016] In at least one example, the tensioner includes at least one of a spring, an actuator, or a magnet.

[0017] In at least one example, the tensioner includes at least one of a pulley or a bladder.

[0018] In at least one example, the first sensor is a camera and the second sensor includes at least one of a tissue displacement sensor or an electrical signal sensor.

[0019] In at least one example, the first modifiable pressure zone corresponds to at least one of the zygomatic region, maxillary region, or forehead region on a human head, and the second modifiable pressure zone corresponds to at least one of the zygomatic region, maxillary region, or forehead region on a human head that is different from the first modifiable pressure zone.

[0020] In one example, a wearable device includes a display portion, a foam pad connected to the display portion, a sensor, and a controller. The display portion includes a display. The foam pad includes a first heater and a second heater. The first heater is configured to heat a first portion of the foam pad. The second heater is configured to heat a second portion of the foam pad that is different from the first portion of the foam pad. The controller is communicatively coupled to the sensor, the first heater, and the second heater.

[0021] In at least one example, the foam pad is a thermally reactive foam.

[0022] In at least one example, the first heater and the second heater are configured to operate at alternating times.

[0023] In at least one example, the first heater and the second heater include a first infrared heater and a second infrared heater, respectively.

[0024] In at least one example, the first heater and the second heater include a first pneumatic heatline and a second pneumatic heatline.

[0025] In at least one example, the first heater and the second heater are configured to use hot exhaust from the wearable device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] The present disclosure will be readily understood through the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals represent like structural elements, and in which:

[0027] Figure 1A shows a top view of a head-mountable device worn on a user's head 101 according to one example;

[0028] Figure 1B shows a perspective view of a head mountable device according to an example;

[0029] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B showing a side view profile and a front view profile, respectively, of an example of a head mountable device;

[0030] Figure 3 A face joint having a variable stiffness profile according to one example is shown;

[0031] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C A portion of a face joint having a variable stiffness profile according to one example is shown;

[0032] Figure 5 A face engaging portion of a head mountable device having a pneumatic tensioner including a pneumatic bladder is shown according to one example;

[0033] Figure 6 A face engaging portion of a head mountable device having a thermal tensioner including a first heater and a second heater is shown according to one example;

[0034] Figure 7 A facial interface of a head mountable device with a pneumatic thermal tensioner is shown according to one example;

[0035] Figure 8 A face interface of a head mountable device with a mechanical tensioner is shown according to one example; and

[0036] Fig. 9 A high-level block diagram of an electronic device that can be used to implement examples of the present disclosure is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] Reference will now be made in detail to the representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following description is not intended to limit the embodiments to a preferred embodiment. On the contrary, it is intended to cover substitutions, modifications and equivalents that may be included in the essence and scope of the described embodiments defined by the appended claims.

[0038] The following disclosure relates to a head-mountable device that may include: a display portion including a display, a face joint, a stiffness profile modifier, a sensor, and a fixation assembly. The face joint may have a variable stiffness profile, and the stiffness profile modifier may automatically change the face joint from having a first stiffness profile to having a second stiffness profile in response to sensor data generated by the sensor. The fixation assembly may be connected to the display portion and may include a removable strap having electronics and a retaining strap connectable to the removable strap.

[0039] By enabling the head mountable device (HMD) to automatically articulate via the stiffness profile modifier, one or more examples of the HMD disclosed herein can increase the comfort experienced by the user. For example, over long durations of use of the head mountable device, the comfort profile can change. In a first approach, an indicator can manifest itself on the user's face, signaling extended use, such an indicator can include a color change that is visually apparent when the head mountable device contacts the user's face. In some cases, facial muscles and tissues that experience prolonged contact can affect the user's comfort level.

[0040] To help increase comfort during long-term use, the HMD of the present disclosure may implement various exemplary embodiments. Some examples of HMDs include stiffness profile modifiers to automatically adjust the stiffness of contact areas or points between the HMD and the user's face. In one example, the stiffness profile modifier may include a pneumatic bladder that can be locally inflated and / or deflated to control the pressure and stiffness of a specific pressure area. In another example, the stiffness profile modifier may include various heaters or heat sources that can transmit thermal energy along a heat-conducting channel to selectively and controllably soften or harden heat-sensitive foams. The heater may be an infrared heater, a radiant heater, or may utilize inherent heat dissipation from the HMD. In another example, the stiffness profile modifier may include a pneumatic thermal tensioner that transmits a temperature-controlled gas or liquid to modify the stiffness / pressure of a pressure area. In another example, the stiffness profile modifier may include a mechanical tensioner that selectively tightens / relaxes a line to adjust a pressure area. Other examples may include utilizing a magnetic field-based viscosity dependency of a fluid, a mechanical spring, and the like. Additionally or alternatively, these or other examples may be combined in a variety of ways as desired. Additionally or alternatively, various examples of the HMD may implement a stiffness profile modifier that is adjustable manually (e.g., via input controls such as buttons or dials) or via hands-free communication (e.g., gestures detected by sensors disclosed herein, eye movements, voice commands, etc.).

[0041] The following will refer to Figures 1 to Fig. 9 to discuss these examples and other examples. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. In addition, as used herein, a system, method, article, component, feature, or sub-feature comprising at least one of a first option, a second option, or a third option should be understood to refer to a system, method, article, component, feature, or sub-feature that may include one of each listed option (e.g., only one first option, only one second option, only one third option), multiple of a single listed option (e.g., two or more first options), two options at the same time (e.g., one first option and one second option), or a combination thereof (e.g., two first options and one second option).

[0042] Figure 1AA top view of a head-mounted device 100 worn on a user's head 101 is shown according to an example. The head-mounted device 100 and other wearable electronic devices disclosed herein may also be referred to as HMD systems, electronic devices, wearable devices or apparatuses, or simply devices. The head-mounted device 100 may include multiple components, including modular components, interchangeable components, etc. For example, the head-mounted device 100 may include a head-mounted display (HMD) 102, which includes a housing 104 and a display 106 attached to the housing 104 for displaying images to a user.

[0043] The HMD 102 may also be referred to as a display portion or display module having a display 106. The display portion may include a housing 104 and a display 106 that at least partially constitute the HMD. In one or more examples (including the example shown in FIG. 1 and other examples shown in other figures), the HMD 102 may also be referred to as an output component or output module. Such an output component, module or portion may include one or more outputs in addition to the visual output from the display. For example, an output module similar to the HMD 102 may include a speaker that outputs sound instead of the display 106 shown in FIG. 1 or in addition to the display. As another example, the HMD 102 (as an output module) may include a tactile interface for generating vibration or other sensory outputs.

[0044] The head-mounted device 100 may also include a facial joint 103. As used herein, the term "facial joint" or "joint" refers to a portion of the head-mounted device 100 that engages with the user's face via direct contact. Specifically, the facial joint includes a portion of the head-mounted device 100 that conforms to an area of ​​the user's face (e.g., an area that presses against the user's face). For example, the facial joint may include a flexible (or semi-flexible) facial track or foam that spans the forehead, surrounds the eyes, contacts the zygomatic and maxillary areas of the face, and bridges the nose. In addition, the facial joint may include various components that form a structure, webbing, cover, fabric, or frame of the head-mounted device, which are disposed between the HMD 102 and the user's skin. In specific embodiments, the facial joint may include a seal (e.g., a light seal, an environmental seal, a dust seal, an air seal, etc.). It should be understood that the term "seal" may include partial seals or inhibitors in addition to complete seals (e.g., a partial optical seal blocks some ambient light and a complete optical seal blocks all ambient light when the head-mountable device is worn).

[0045] The face joint may include a variable stiffness profile, which may have different configurations of a reinforcement area and a relaxation area. As used herein, a reinforcement area is an area of ​​the face joint that is actuated by a stiffness profile modifier (e.g., a tensioner) to increase the pressure on the user's face compared to a non-actuated area of ​​the face joint. In addition, a relaxation area is an area of ​​the face joint that is not actuated by a stiffness profile modifier. In some examples, different areas of the face joint (e.g., reinforcement areas) may be actuated to varying degrees. For example, a first area of ​​the face joint may be a first reinforcement area having a first stiffness greater than the stiffness of the relaxation area, and a second area of ​​the face joint may be a second stiffness area having a second stiffness different from the first stiffness and greater than the stiffness of the relaxation area. For example, the face joint may have a first stiffness profile including a configuration of a reinforcement area and a relaxation area; and the face joint may have a second stiffness profile including a configuration of a reinforcement area and a relaxation area that is at least partially different from the first configuration of the reinforcement area and the relaxation area. In addition, the face joint may have additional stiffness profiles (such as the third, fourth, fifth, etc.) that include configurations that are at least partially different from each of the other configurations of the reinforcement area. The head mountable device 100 may include a stiffness profile modifier to change the stiffness profile of the facial interface.

[0046] In addition, the exemplary head-mountable device 100 may include a connector 105. As used herein, the term "connector" or "joint" refers to a coupling portion between the HMD 102 and the facial joint 103. In some examples, the connector allows the facial joint 103 to translate or rotate relative to the HMD 102 via the connector. In other examples, the connector allows the facial joint 103 to translate and / or rotate relative to the HMD 102. In at least some examples, the facial joint 103 can be removably attached to the connector 105 (or another part of the HMD 102) and detached therefrom. For example, in some examples, the facial joint 103 can be swapped out for a different facial joint. In other examples, the facial joint 103 is permanently attached to the connector 105. In a specific implementation, the connector 105 movably constrains the facial joint 103 to the HMD 102 at one or more various locations (such as the forehead area, the cheekbone area, or the maxillary area).

[0047] As used herein, the term "frontal region" refers to the area between the eyes and the scalp of a person's face. In addition, the term "maxillary region" refers to the area of ​​the human face that corresponds to the zygomatic structure of the person. Similarly, the term "maxillary region" refers to the area of ​​the human face that corresponds to the maxillary structure of the person. It should be understood that the aforementioned areas may correspond to specific structures of the head mountable device 100. However, such a structure of the head mountable device 100 does not depend on the face or the user.

[0048] The head mountable device 100 may include one or more sensors 118 and 120 disposed on or within at least one of the facial interface 103 or the display portion. Figure 1A As depicted in , sensor 118 may be disposed on or within display 106, and sensor 120 may be disposed on or within face joint 103. Sensors 118 and 120 may be configured to generate sensor data. Sensors 118 and 120 may generate various sensor data. Any of sensors 118 and 120 may include one or more of a timer, a camera, a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, a tissue displacement sensor, and an electrical signal sensor, a vibration sensor, or any combination thereof. Additionally or alternatively, sensors 118, 120 may include oxygen equipment, mobile equipment, brain activity equipment, sweat gland activity equipment, respiratory activity equipment, muscle contraction equipment, neural signal detection equipment, etc. Some specific examples of sensors may include electrooculogram sensors, electrocardiogram sensors, EKG sensors, heart rate variability sensors, blood volume pulse sensors, SpO2 sensors, compact pressure sensors, electromyogram sensors, core body temperature sensors, galvanic skin sensors, accelerometers, gyroscopes, magnetometers, inclinometers, barometers, infrared sensors, global positioning system sensors, etc. The head mountable device 100 may include a stiffness profile modifier (not shown) configured to automatically change the facial joint 103 between various stiffness profiles (e.g., from a first stiffness profile to a second stiffness profile) in response to sensor data generated by the sensors 118 and 120.

[0049] In addition, one example of the device 100 may include a fixing assembly 108 that fixes the HMD 102 to the user's head 101. The fixing assembly 108 may include removable straps 110, 112. As used herein, the term "removable strap" refers to an element (e.g., a strap, a connector, etc.) that couples the HMD 102 and the retaining strap 114. In a specific example, the removable straps 110, 112 are removably (i.e., detachably) connected to both the HMD 102 and the retaining strap 114. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, each of the removable straps 110, 112 may be removably connected to the HMD 102 (or its housing or display portion) and the retaining strap 114 at opposite ends of each removable strap 110, 112. In such examples, the fixing assembly 108 is modular because each of the removable straps 110, 112 and the retaining strap 114 can be connected and separated as needed. For example, each of the removable strips 110 , 112 may be removed from the fixed assembly 108 and swapped out for one or more other modules, strips, or electronic components.

[0050] In these or other examples, at least one of the removable strips 110, 112 can include electronics, such as a connector or port for data and / or power transfer (e.g., via a converter or tether). For example, the removable strips 110, 112 can be coupled to an external device or display. In another example, the removable strips 110, 112 can be coupled to a power source.

[0051] In some examples, the removable strips 110, 112 include an electronics box 116 (in Figure 2A ). As used herein, the term "electronic device box" refers to a subassembly, housing or shell dedicated to accommodating certain electronic devices. Some exemplary electronic devices include speakers, memory devices, processors, controllers, systems on chips, printed circuit boards, etc. In a specific implementation, the electrical components of the electronic device box are communicatively coupled to the HMD 102 (e.g., via one or more cables). Additionally or alternatively, the electronic device box may be coupled to one or more converters, adapters, connectors, etc. In some examples, the head-mounted device 100 may include an input device such as a button 124. The button 124 may be used as a manual control to actuate the stiffness profile modifier. In some examples, the head-mounted device 100 may additionally or alternatively include one or more manual controls (such as triggers, levers, dials, buttons, sliders, rockers, switches, etc.) to allow the user to manually actuate the stiffness profile modifier. The button 124 (and other manual controls) may allow the user to manually actuate the stiffness profile modifier as needed, rather than waiting for it to be automatically completed (e.g., based on sensor data).

[0052] The fixing assembly 108 may also include a retaining strap 114 that can be connected to the removable strap. As used herein, the term "retaining strap" refers to a fixing element that helps to fix the device 100 in place. The retaining strap may include a strap, a tie, or another fixing element (e.g., to fix the device 100 on or around the user's head 101). In addition, the retaining strap may be formed of a variety of materials, such as knitted fabrics, silicone, foam, etc. In some examples, the retaining strap may be loosened or tightened to achieve a comfortable and proper fit. Therefore, the fixing assembly 108 is configured to removably fix the head-mounted device 100 including the HMD 102 to the user's head 101 when the removable straps 110, 112 and the retaining strap 114 are connected as shown in Figure 1.

[0053] One or more other examples of device 100 may include alternative configurations of removable straps 110, 112 shown in Figure 1. For example, device 100 may be positioned elsewhere along fixed component 108 (different from that shown in Figure 1). In addition, one or more examples of wearable electronic devices described herein may include one or more intermediate members, flexible straps, or other optional supplemental components and electronic modules, such as external power supplies, memory components, and / or processors.

[0054] In the example shown in FIG1 , when the device 100 is worn on the user's head 101, the removable strap 110 is positioned on the left side of the user's head and the removable strap 112 is positioned on the right side of the user's head. The retaining strap 114 may span between the removable straps 110, 112 to wrap around the back of the user's head 101 and secure the device 100 on the user's head 101, as shown.

[0055] In some examples, and as shown, the device 100 may be worn on the user's head 101 so that the HMD 102 is worn on the user's face and is disposed above one or both of the user's eyes. As mentioned above, the HMD 102 may be removably connected to one or more of the removable straps 110, 112. In some examples, the removable straps 110, 112 may be positioned against the side of the user's head 101 and may be in contact with it. In some examples, the removable straps 110, 112 may be positioned above one or more ears of the user. In some examples, the removable straps 110, 112 may be positioned adjacent to one or more ears of the user. The removable straps 110, 112 may be removably connected to a retaining band 114, which may extend around the user's head 101 and may be removably connected to the other of the removable straps 110, 112. In this manner, the HMD 102, removable straps 110, 112, and retaining strap 114 may form a loop that may securely hold the device 100 on the user's head 101. Although a single loop configuration is shown in FIG. 1 , any number of loops and / or strap configurations may be combined with and may form a part of the exemplary device 100.

[0056] As mentioned, the removable straps 110, 112 can be mechanically and electrically connected to the HMD 102. In certain examples, the removable straps 110, 112 can receive and / or relay at least one of data or power via such a connection. In these or other examples, the removable straps 110, 112 can be connected to the HMD 102 at an HMD connection location, which can include an electrical input or electrical connector attached to the housing 104 and electrically connected to the display 106. The location can be identified as the temple area, which can be defined as an area near the user's temple adjacent to the user's eyes and can span along the side of the user's head 101 from in front of the user's eyes to about 1.0 inches-1.5 inches beyond the outer corners of the user's eyes.

[0057] Similarly, the removable straps 110, 112 can be connected to the retaining strap 114 at a retaining strap connection location, which is identified as an area that can span to include the area above the user's ears or the area within 0.5 inches of the outer edge of the ears on either side. In this way, the removable straps 110, 112 can provide structural support between the HMD 102 and the user's ears while securely connecting the retaining strap 114 and transmitting the retaining force of the retaining strap 114 through the device 100. However, it should be understood that this configuration is merely one example of how the components of the head mountable device 100 can be arranged, and in some examples, a different number of removable straps and / or retaining straps can be included.

[0058] Although a user wearing an HMD 102 on his or her head 101 is shown as an example of a wearable electronic device, the modular components, features, and advantages of the various examples of electronic devices disclosed herein may also be applied to other wearable electronic devices with a fixing mechanism, including but not limited to wearable smart watches, fitness trackers, smart glasses, medical monitor devices, and the like. For example, the housing 104 and display 106 of the HMD 102 shown in FIG. 1 may also be configured as a housing and display for a smart watch module, which is fixed to the user's arm or wrist via a fixing mechanism or assembly similar to the fixing assembly 108 shown in FIG. 1. Although referred to as a head-mounted device 100, it should be understood that the device 100 may include multiple modular components or devices and can be interchangeably referred to as a wearable electronic device, a wearable device, a wearable electronic device system, and / or a wearable electronic system. In addition, although a specific component may be referred to as an HMD, it should be understood that the terms HMD, HMD device, and / or HMD system may be used to refer to the electronic device 100 as a whole.

[0059] Figure 1BA perspective view of a head-mountable device 100 according to an example is shown. As shown, the device 100 includes the above relative Figure 1A At least some of the same or similar features discussed, such as HMD 102, removable strap (eg, removable strap 110), electronics box 116, retaining strap 114, and the like.

[0060] Additionally, the device 100 may include an adjustable tension mechanism 142. As used herein, the term "adjustable tension mechanism" refers to one or more elements that can change the tension of at least one component that holds the HMD 102 against the user's head. In some examples, the adjustable tension mechanism includes one or more tension wires, cables, or similar tensioning elements. In some examples, the adjustable tension mechanism includes one or more clips, bands, straps, etc. to allow a user of the head mountable device 100 to adjust the strap around the user's head.

[0061] Figure 1A to Figure 1B Any of the features, components, and parts shown in the drawings (including their arrangements and configurations) may be included alone or in any combination in any of the other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in other drawings. Similarly, any of the features, components, and parts shown in other drawings (including their arrangements and configurations) may be included alone or in any combination in Figure 1A to Figure 1B The following are examples of devices, features, components and parts shown. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B Additional details of the device are described, including detailed outline views.

[0062] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B 1 and 2 show a side view profile and a front view profile of an example of a head mountable device 100. As discussed above, the head mountable device 100 includes an HMD 102 (which includes a housing 104 and a display 106), a facial interface 103, and a connector 105. Specifically, as shown in FIG. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B As shown, facial joint 103 may have various contact points with a person's face (or, in an alternative example, other body parts such as a wrist). In addition, as will be discussed below, facial joint 103 may dynamically change contact points, pressure points, and / or stiffness profiles along a person's face, head, or body (e.g., in real-time in response to sensor data indicating detected long-term tissue engagement, detected temperature, detected blood flow, user input, passage of a predetermined amount of time, etc.).

[0063] As used herein, the term "contact point" refers to a specific tissue area and / or bone structure that is engaged (e.g., contacted or compressed against) by the facial joint 103. For example, the facial joint 103 includes contact points that include an area surrounding the eyes 201, above the nose area 202, across the forehead area 203, and contacting the maxillary area 204 and the zygomatic area 205. The foregoing examples of contact points correspond to global facial regions and facial anatomical structures. However, contact points may also refer to more fine-grained positioning and local touch points. For example, a contact point may refer to a first tissue portion on one side of a blood vessel, and another contact point may refer to a second tissue portion on the other side of the blood vessel. In another case, a contact point may refer to one or more skin pores, and another contact point may refer to another one or more skin pores.

[0064] In at least one example, the facial joint 103 (also referred to as the facial joint structure) includes a modifiable pressure region corresponding to at least one of the nasal region 202, the zygomatic region 205, the maxillary region 204, or the forehead region 203 on the human head 101. The head-mounted device may include a tensioner, as described below with respect to the remaining figures. The tensioner may include at least one of a mechanical tensioner, an electromechanical tensioner, a thermal tensioner, or any other tensioner to actuate the modifiable pressure region. The tensioner may be configured to actuate when the sensor data generated by the sensors 118 and 120 meets the corresponding threshold criteria. In some examples, the sensors 118 and 120 may include a thermometer, and the tensioner may modify the pressure region when the contact point exceeds a specific threshold temperature indicating long-term use by the user. In some examples, the sensors 118 and 120 may include a camera, and the tensioner may modify the pressure region when muscle movement and / or eye movement exceeding a threshold frequency or amplitude is detected, which may indicate user comfort. In some examples, sensors 118 and 120 may include various mechanical and electrical sensors that may receive neural signals, muscle signals, galvanic skin sensor measurements, etc. that may be used to measure user comfort.

[0065] Figure 2BSome exemplary locations of the connectors 105 are additionally shown in FIG. 1 . In a particular example, the connectors 105 are located at the forehead region 203, the maxillary region 204, and the zygomatic region 205. Other locations of the connectors 105 are contemplated herein. However, the connectors 105 in at least some or all of these exemplary locations can provide a dynamic but stable connection between the HMD 102 and the facial joint 103. In alternative implementations, one or more of the connectors 105 can be omitted. For example, the facial joint 103 can include a dynamic loading capability that allows for intentional (and varying) pressure loading against a person's face without the need for fixed connectors or posts at one or more specific facial regions. In certain implementations, modifying the pressure regions of the facial joint 103 can provide such a dynamic response with respect to a person's face.

[0066] It should be understood that the connectors 105 at different locations may be the same, or in some cases different. For example, the connector 105 may include a first joint (e.g., a socket joint, a flexible joint, a molded hinge joint, a butterfly flex joint, a cam pivot joint, a cross-axis pivot joint, etc.) positioned at the forehead region 203. In addition, the connector 105 may include a second joint that is different from the first joint, such as a pivot joint, an elastomeric spring joint, a flexible joint, a single ball joint, etc. In practice, different arrangements and types of connectors 105 may be implemented to provide specific force distributions, amounts of rigidity, stiffness, pressures, etc.

[0067] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B Any of the features, components and / or parts shown (including their arrangements and configurations) may be included alone or in any combination in any other examples of devices, features, components and parts shown in other figures described herein. Similarly, any of the features, components and / or parts shown and described with reference to other figures (including their arrangements and configurations) may be included alone or in any combination in any other examples of devices, features, components and parts shown in other figures described herein. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B Examples of equipment, features, components and parts are shown below. Figure 3 Additional details of the device are described, including a profile view showing exemplary pressure areas along the face joint.

[0068] Figure 3A face joint 300 with a variable stiffness profile according to one example is shown. The face joint 300 may have various stiffness profiles so that different areas 301 of the face joint 300 may have different stiffnesses. As will be described in more detail below, in at least one example, the face joint 300 may include a foam pad or other type of material to contact the user's face. The stiffness profile modifier 322 may be configured to automatically change the face joint from having a first stiffness profile to having a second stiffness profile, for example, in response to sensor data. As used herein, the term "stiffness profile modifier" or "tensioner" refers to one or more components that act alone or in combination to adjust the stiffness of one or more pressure areas of the face joint. Specifically, the stiffness profile modifier or tensioner includes an actuator for generating a force to modify one or more pressure areas of the face joint. The stiffness profile modifier or tensioner may also include an auxiliary component that transfers force from the actuator to each pressure area. In some examples, examples of stiffness profile modifiers or tensioners may include pneumatic tensioners, thermal tensioners, mechanical tensioners, etc. In some examples, the stiffness profile modifier or tensioner may include electronic components. For example, a memory of the stiffness profile modifier may include computer executable instructions that, when executed by a processor of the stiffness profile modifier, cause certain components to actuate, shut down, adjust / modify stiffness, etc., as described in further detail below.

[0069] In at least one example, the stiffness profile can be characterized by different stiffnesses, hardnesses, or other properties along the face engaging portion 300. The first region 301a of the face engaging portion 300 can have a first stiffness, the second region 302b can have a second stiffness, the third region 302c can have a third stiffness, the fourth region 302d can have a fourth stiffness, the fifth region 301e can have a fifth stiffness, the sixth region 301f can have a sixth stiffness, the seventh region 301g can have a seventh stiffness, and so on.

[0070] Despite Figure 3 301a-301g, but the head mountable device may have any suitable number of stiffness regions whose stiffness or hardness may be independently changed and adjusted by the stiffness profile modifier 322. In some examples, the stiffness of each stiffness region may be adjusted by modifying the corresponding pressure applied to the user's face. Therefore, the stiffness regions may also be referred to as modifiable pressure regions.

[0071] In one example, the head mountable device may include a first stiffness region corresponding to a portion of the facial joint 300 that contacts the left side of the user's face, and a second stiffness region corresponding to a portion of the facial joint 300 that contacts the right side of the user's face. Alternatively, the head mountable device may have a first stiffness region corresponding to a zygomatic region 205 on the user's head, a second stiffness region corresponding to a maxillary region 204 on the user's head, and a third stiffness region corresponding to a forehead region 203 on the user's head.

[0072] In at least one example, the stiffness profile modifier 322 includes a heater. The stiffness profile modifier 322 can utilize an induced temperature flux to change the face joint 300 from having a first stiffness profile to having a second stiffness profile. As defined herein, an induced temperature flux can refer to heat or thermal energy directed along the face joint 300 to adjust the stiffness, rigidity, or other properties of various regions. In other words, an induced temperature flux can refer to a directional flow of thermal energy. The stiffness profile modifier 322 can be actuated in response to sensor data.

[0073] Figure 3 Any of the features, components, and parts shown in the drawings (including their arrangements and configurations) may be included alone or in any combination in any of the other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in other drawings. Similarly, any of the features, components, and parts shown in other drawings (including their arrangements and configurations) may be included alone or in any combination in Figure 3 Examples of devices, features, components and parts are shown. Additional details of the face joint 300 and stiffness profile are described in detail below with reference to FIG.

[0074] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C A part of a face joint 300 with a variable stiffness profile according to an example is shown. The face joint 300 may include a stiffness profile modifier 322, which is configured to automatically change the face joint 300 from having a first stiffness profile 400a to having a second stiffness profile 400b. In some examples, the stiffness profile modifier 322 is further configured to change the face joint from having a second stiffness profile 400b to having a third stiffness profile 400c. More specifically, the face joint 300 may have a modifiable pressure region (e.g., stiffness region), including pressure regions 401a-401d, which are regions with adjustable stiffness levels. Stiffness level (or stiffness) may represent the amount of force applied in order to achieve a certain amount of deformation or displacement (expressed as stiffness=force / deformation). Therefore, a higher stiffness level may require a larger applied load to achieve deformation, and a lower stiffness level may require a smaller applied load to achieve deformation. In other words, for a given force, a higher stiffness level allows for less displacement than a lower stiffness level.

[0075] The stiffness profile may be characterized by a specific distribution of varying stiffness or rigidity along the facial joint 300 (e.g., regions of stiffening or firming areas and relaxed areas). In these or other examples, the stiffness profile modifiers 322 may cooperate or work in concert to actuate at specific times (e.g., alternating times, scheduled times, learned times, or manually initiated times). In some examples, the stiffness profile modifiers 322 may work in pairs or groups such that a plurality of stiffness profile modifiers 322 are actuated at a given time while another pair or group of stiffness profile modifiers 322 are not actuated (e.g., powered off or in sleep mode) at the same time. Additionally or alternatively, one or more stiffness profile modifiers 322 may be actuated at different power levels (e.g., such that a corresponding region around the stiffness profile modifier is heated / cooled less or more, depending on the amount of power consumed by or allocated to the stiffness profile modifier).

[0076] like FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C As shown, the stiffness profile modifier 322 generates corresponding pressure regions with variable stiffness levels. FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C , a first stiffness profile 400a is characterized by a first pressure region 401a having a first stiffness level, a second pressure region 401b having a second stiffness level, a third pressure region 401c having a first stiffness level, and a fourth pressure region 401d having a second stiffness level (indicated by different fill patterns). A second stiffness profile 400b is characterized by a first pressure region 401a having a second stiffness level, a second pressure region 401b having a first stiffness level, a third pressure region 401c having a second stiffness level, and a fourth pressure region 401d having a first stiffness level. A third stiffness profile 400c is characterized by a first pressure region 401a having a second stiffness level, a second pressure region 401b having a second stiffness level, a third pressure region 401c having a first stiffness level, and a fourth pressure region 401d having a first stiffness level.

[0077] In one example, the first stiffness profile 400a may correspond to an exemplary distribution of varying levels of firmness or stiffness, wherein the zygomatic region is stiffer than the maxillary region, which is stiffer than the forehead region, and the second stiffness profile 400b may correspond to a distribution of varying levels of firmness or stiffness, wherein the maxillary region and / or the forehead region is stiffer than the zygomatic region. Additionally or alternatively, any of the zygomatic region, the maxillary region, or the forehead region may be divided into separate pressure zones that may each have a defined stiffness.

[0078] It should be understood that the face engaging portion 300 may have FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C Alternatively, the face joint 300 may have a pressure relief area greater than FIG. 4A to FIG. 4CIn at least one example, one or more of the modifiable pressure regions 401a-401d may correspond to at least one of the zygomatic region, the maxillary region, or the forehead region on a person's head. Figures 5 to 8 As described in further detail, the stiffness profile modifier 322 may include one or more mechanisms that allow for adjustment of the stiffness and / or pressure of each pressure region, including pressure regions 401a - 401d .

[0079] It should be understood that the stiffness, hardness or rigidity of the pressure region is not limited to the first stiffness and the second stiffness. Rather, the stiffness profile modifier 322 may be actuated based on sensor data, manual input, etc. to cause the pressure region to have any suitable stiffness.

[0080] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C Any of the features, components and / or parts shown (including arrangements and configurations thereof) may be included alone or in any combination in any other examples of devices, features, components and parts shown in other figures described herein. Similarly, any of the features, components and / or parts shown or described with reference to other figures (including arrangements and configurations thereof) may be included alone or in any combination in any other examples of devices, features, components and parts shown in other figures described herein. FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C Examples of equipment, features, components and parts are shown below. Figures 5 to 8 Additional details of exemplary devices having different types of stiffness profile modifiers are described in detail. Specifically, the following reference is made to Figure 5 Details of exemplary apparatus including a pneumatic tensioner are described in detail.

[0081] Figure 5 FIG. 5 shows a face joint 500 of a head mountable device having a pneumatic tensioner 522 including a pneumatic bladder 526 according to one example. The face joint 500 is substantially similar to Figures 6 to 8 The face joint 600-800 of the embodiment of the present invention is different from the face joint 600, except that the face joint 600 may include a different type of tensioner. The pneumatic tensioner 522 is an example of a stiffness profile modifier discussed above. Specifically, the pneumatic tensioner 522 can adjust the stiffness of one or more areas of the pneumatic bladder 502 by adjusting one or more of tension or pressure within the pneumatic bladder 502 through the addition, removal, distribution, or movement of a gas or fluid within the pneumatic bladder 502. Although the features of the face joint 500 and the pneumatic bladder 502 are described in the context of a gas, the same or similar principles may be applied to a fluid or liquid within the pneumatic bladder 502.

[0082] As shown, the face joint 500 includes a pneumatic bag 502. A pneumatic bag may refer to a bag or closed tube that can be inflated and deflated with a gas or fluid to set a desired pressure in the bag. In the depicted example, the pneumatic bag 502 may include five modifiable pressure regions 501a-501f that can each be inflated to a given pressure. Typically, the pneumatic bag 502 may have one or more modifiable pressure regions (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 10, etc.) that can each be inflated to a given pressure. Alternatively, the pneumatic bag 502 may be a closed loop (e.g., having only a single pressure region so that the pressure is uniform along the entire pneumatic bag). In some examples, the pneumatic bag 502 may take various forms and configurations, such as a bag, an elastic (e.g., expandable and compressible) vein, a passage, an inflatable portion, etc. In some examples, the pneumatic bag 502 may be elastic to deformation, force, pressure, or manipulation.

[0083] In at least one example, pressure regions 501a-501f may be in fluid communication with one or more other pressure regions (e.g., pressure region 501a may be in fluid communication with pressure regions 501b and 501f; pressure region 501b may be in fluid communication with pressure regions 501a and 501c; pressure region 501c may be in fluid communication with pressure regions 501b and 501d; pressure region 501d may be in fluid communication with pressure regions 501c and 501e; and pressure region 501e may be in fluid communication with pressure regions 501d and 501a.) Pneumatic bladder 502 may include control values ​​504-514 to allow fluid communication.

[0084] The term "fluid communication" refers to the ability of a gas (or liquid) to flow between components or mechanisms. Components or mechanisms in fluid communication can therefore send gas or liquid and / or receive gas or liquid from other components. However, it should be understood that components or mechanisms in fluid communication do not require active operation (e.g., receipt, storage, or transmission of fluid). For example, a fluid may passively pass through components or mechanisms in fluid communication with each other.

[0085] Each of the control valves 504-514 separates adjacent pressure regions 501a-501e and is configured to maintain gas within a given pressure region and / or allow gas to flow from one pressure region to an adjacent pressure region to adjust the corresponding stiffness. The control valves 504-514 may allow one-way gas flow or two-way gas flow. The control valves 504-514 may include relief valves, pressure reducing valves, program-controlled valves, balancing valves, safety valves, unloading valves, etc. In certain examples, the control valves may also adjust (or manipulate) pressure and / or flow rate. In these or other examples, the control valves may be electrically, pneumatically, or hydraulically actuated (e.g., opened, closed, and / or moved to a partially open / closed position).

[0086] In one example, control values ​​504-516 may be implemented to control the flow of gas into or out of a portion of pressure region 501a corresponding to forehead region 203. Additionally or alternatively, control valves 504 and 508 (and 506 and 510) may be implemented to control the flow of gas into or out of a portion of pressure regions 501b and 501f corresponding to cheekbone region 205. Additionally or alternatively, control valves 510 and 514 (and 508 and 512) may be implemented to control the flow of gas into or out of a portion of pressure regions 501c and 501e corresponding to maxillary region 204, respectively. In this manner, one or more of control valves 504-514 may cause pneumatic bladder 502 to inflate or expand in certain portions while remaining less inflated or less expanded in other portions. In doing so, pneumatic bladder 502 may vary the pressure applied by facial joint 500 on a person's face.

[0087] In these or other examples, the pneumatic bag 502 may include a closed loop system or an open loop system. In a closed loop system, the pneumatic bag 502 may include a predetermined volume of gas that is fixed within the pneumatic bag 502. That is, in a closed loop system, the pneumatic bag 502 permanently maintains a certain amount of gas or liquid that does not leave the pneumatic bag 502. In an open loop system, the pneumatic bag 502 may introduce gas and exhaust gas. For example, the pneumatic bag 502 may draw in ambient air from the environment and exhaust air that has been circulating in at least a portion of the pneumatic bag 502.

[0088] In at least one example of an open-loop pneumatic bag 502, the head-mountable device may include a fan 516 and an exhaust device 518 in fluid communication with the pneumatic bag 502. As used herein, the term "fan" refers to an element that can push or move gas; the term "exhaust device" refers to an element that can exhaust gas. For example, the fan 516 can introduce gas (or air) from the external environment into the pneumatic bag 502 to increase the pressure within the pneumatic bag 502 and can further move the gas within the pneumatic bag 502 and between the pressure regions 501a-501f. The exhaust device 518 can exhaust air from the pneumatic bag 502 to reduce the pressure within the pneumatic bag 502.

[0089] Alternatively, fan 516 may be in fluid communication with exhaust device 518 to move exhausted gas into and within pneumatic bladder 502. In other words, air may be recirculated or recirculated within pneumatic bladder 502. In this case, the (exhausted) gas within pneumatic bladder 502 may have a higher temperature than the ambient temperature and thus at least partially affect the stiffness of face engaging portion 500 when face engaging portion 500 includes a material having a temperature-dependent stiffness (such as foam, elastic material, silicone, etc.).

[0090] In at least one example, the pneumatic tensioner 522 (stiffness profile modifier) ​​can be actuated based on the first sensor data generated by the first sensor 520a to cause the pneumatic bladder 502 to transition from having a first stiffness profile to having a second stiffness profile. As used herein, the term "actuation" refers to the initiation (or cessation) of a circulation cycle, a pumping cycle, an expansion cycle, etc. of a gas inside the pneumatic bladder. Additionally or alternatively, the term actuation includes the manipulation of the pneumatic bladder (e.g., in response to the operation of a control valve or a fan). The tensioner 522 can be configured to automatically change the face joint 500 including the pneumatic bladder 502 from having a first stiffness profile to having a second stiffness profile. Additionally or alternatively, the tensioner 522 can be configured to automatically change the face joint 500 from having either the first stiffness profile or the second stiffness profile to having a third stiffness profile. As defined herein, the first stiffness profile may have a first configuration of stiffened areas and relaxed areas, the second stiffness profile may have a second configuration of stiffened areas and relaxed areas, and the third stiffness profile may have a third configuration of stiffened areas and relaxed areas. In at least one example, the tensioner 522 may actuate only some of the pressure areas based on sensor data or user input. For example, sensor data associated with the forehead region 203 may exceed a threshold criterion, while sensor data associated with the zygomatic region 205 and the maxillary region 203 may be below the threshold criterion, which may cause the tensioner to actuate only the forehead region 203 and not the zygomatic region 205 or the maxillary region 203.

[0091] In a further example, the tensioner 522 may be configured to automatically change the facial joint 500 from having a second stiffness profile to having a third stiffness profile in response to additional sensor data. The third stiffness profile may have a third configuration of a reinforcement area and a relaxation area. In at least one example, the tensioner 522 may be configured to automatically set the facial joint 500 to have a certain stiffness profile from a discrete set of predetermined stiffness profiles based on one or more sensor data. In this case, the discrete set of stiffness profiles may include a first stiffness profile, a second stiffness profile, a third stiffness profile, and / or a fourth, fifth, sixth, etc. In other examples, the tensioner 522 may be configured to automatically set the facial joint 500 to have a certain stiffness profile within a continuous range of stiffness profiles. The sensor data may include a timer, a thermometer, a camera, a tissue displacement sensor (e.g., a skin or muscle movement sensor), an electrical sensor, and / or other appropriate sensors that can collect data related to the user's facial comfort or condition.

[0092] In at least one example, the first sensor 520a may be configured to generate sensor data and additional sensor data. Additionally or alternatively, the head-mounted device may include a second sensor 520b configured to generate additional sensor data (e.g., second sensor data). In at least one example, the tensioner 522 may be configured to actuate when the first sensor data and / or the second sensor data meet corresponding threshold criteria. The threshold criteria may refer to quantifiable values ​​(e.g., preset values, learned values, adjustable values, etc.). In one example, the sensor may be a thermometer for measuring the temperature of the user's face (or zygomatic region, maxillary region, or forehead region). When the measured temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold temperature, the tensioner 522 may be actuated. In another example, the sensor may be a tissue displacement sensor. When the tissue displacement exceeds a predetermined value of the tissue displacement (or decreases to below a predetermined value), the tensioner 522 may be actuated.

[0093] In one example, sensor 520a includes a timer. Pneumatic tensioner 522 can be actuated at predetermined time intervals. As used herein, the term "predetermined time interval" refers to a scheduled time or a set amount of elapsed time. For example, pneumatic tensioner 522 can be actuated every five minutes, every fifteen minutes, every thirty minutes, etc. (e.g., according to user settings) during use of the head mountable device. As another example, sensor 520a includes a clock, and pneumatic tensioner 522 can be actuated at a scheduled time (e.g., according to user settings).

[0094] In one example, the pneumatic tensioner 522 can be configured to actuate in response to user interaction. For example, the pneumatic tensioner 522 can be actuated in response to user input through a manual control 524. As used herein, the manual control 524 can be any mechanism by which a user can interact with the tensioner 522. In at least one example, the manual control 524 is a button (e.g., located on the HMD 102, on a surface of at least one of the removable straps 110, 112, or on the electronics box 116). In yet another example, the pneumatic tensioner 522 can be actuated in response to user input at an external pump in fluid communication with the pneumatic bladder 502. In this case, the external pump can include a manual pump, such as a hand pump, a foot pump, or other interactive pump. In other cases, the external pump can include an automatic pump, such as a battery-powered pump.

[0095] In another example, the head mountable device may include a manual control 524 to actuate the stiffness profile modifier. In other words, the pneumatic tensioner 522 may be actuated in response to user input via the manual control 524 (which may include a dial, a toggle switch, a lever, a button, a slider, a rocker switch, etc.) to turn the fan 516 on or off to adjust the pressure within the pneumatic bladder 502 and / or the pressure regions 501a-501f.

[0096] In one or more examples, the pneumatic tensioner 522 may be actuated based on user activity. As used herein, the term "user activity" refers to a physical action performed by a user (sitting, standing, walking, jumping, exercising, etc.). User activity may also include device-based operations such as playing games, conducting virtual meetings, watching movies, performing work-based or productivity-based activities, etc. User activity may also include detecting (e.g., via sensor 520a) the user's location or surroundings during operation or wear of the device 100. For example, user activity may include being outdoors, indoors, in low light conditions, in bright light conditions, etc. In an exemplary use case, the pneumatic tensioner 522 may be actuated during or after game play (or application use), between games, during pauses, etc. (e.g., to improve user comfort). In another example, the facial joint 500 may have a first stiffness profile during game play that is adjusted to prevent light from penetrating between the facial joint 500 and the user's face, and the facial joint 500 may have a second stiffness profile during a pause or after game play that is generally less stiff than the first stiffness profile to improve user comfort.

[0097] In one or more alternative examples (e.g., in addition to or in lieu of the pneumatic tensioner 522), the face engaging portion 300 can include at least one of a spring, an actuator, or a magnet. In certain implementations, the face engaging portion 300 includes these or other components for facial massage, head massage, etc. Such components can promote increased comfort and relaxation over time and / or during extended use sessions.

[0098] Figure 5 Any of the features, components and / or parts shown (including their settings and configurations) may be included alone or in any combination in any other examples of devices, features, components and parts shown in other figures described herein. Similarly, any of the features, components and / or parts shown or described with reference to other figures (including their settings and configurations) may be included alone or in any combination in any other examples of devices, features, components and parts shown in other figures described herein. Figure 5 Examples of equipment, features, components and parts are shown below. Figure 6 Additional details of exemplary apparatus including a thermal tensioner are described.

[0099] Figure 6 FIG. 6 shows a face joint 600 of a head mountable device having a thermal tensioner 622 including a first heater 626 and a second heater 628 according to one example. The face joint 600 is substantially similar to Figure 5 The face joint 500, Figure 7 The facial joint 700 and Figure 8The face joint 800 is similar to the face joint 600, except that the face joint 600 may include a different type of tensioner. The thermal tensioner 622 may also be referred to as a stiffness profile modifier. The face joint 600 is similar to Figure 5 The face joint 500 of the embodiment of the present invention is different from the face joint 500 in that the stiffness profile modifier is different. The face joint 600 may include a foam pad having a stiffness that depends on temperature (e.g., a thermo-reactive foam pad). In these or other examples, the foam pad may include an open-cell foam, a closed-cell foam, a memory foam, a charcoal foam, a quick-drying foam, a high-density foam, a high-resilience foam, a latex foam, a lux foam, a polyurethane foam, a polyethylene foam, a rebonded foam, or a combination thereof. Additionally or alternatively, the face joint 600 may include another thermo-reactive material having a stiffness that depends on temperature.

[0100] The tensioner 622 can utilize the induced temperature flux to adjust the stiffness of various portions of the foam pad. In the depicted example, the tensioner 622 can generate the induced temperature flux via a first heater 626 and a second heater 628. The first heater 626 can be configured to heat a first portion of the foam pad, and the second heater can be configured to heat a second portion of the foam pad that is different from the first portion of the foam pad. Specifically, the thermal tensioner 622 can adjust the stiffness of the first portion and the second portion by adjusting the temperature of the corresponding portions of the face joint 600.

[0101] like Figure 6 As shown in , the face joint 600 may include a first heat wire 630 that may be coupled to the first heater 626. In addition, the face joint 600 may include a second heat wire 632 that may be coupled to the second heater 628. Each of the heat wires 630 and 632 may be configured to transmit heat from a source (heaters 626 and 628, respectively) along the heat wire. The heat wires 630 and 632 may extend along the face joint 600. The heat wires 630 and 632 may be arranged along different portions of the face joint 600. In one example, the heat wire 630 may be arranged around at least one of the zygomatic region 205, the maxillary region 204, or the forehead region 203, while the heat wire 632 may similarly be arranged around at least one different region of the zygomatic region 205, the maxillary region 204, or the forehead region 203. Alternatively, in another example, the heat wire 630 may be arranged around the inner periphery of the face joint 600, while the heat wire 632 may be arranged around the outer periphery of the face joint 600.

[0102] In at least one example, the hot wires 630 and 632 may include thermally conductive wires or heat transfer wires. For example, the hot wires 630 and 632 may include diamond, silver, copper, gold, aluminum nitride, etc. that are thermally coupled to the heaters 526 and 528, which may conductively transfer thermal energy to the hot wires 630 and 632. The hot wires 630 and 632 may be disposed within or adjacent to the foam pad to transfer heat to the foam pad.

[0103] Heaters 626 and 628 may be any suitable heaters that can generate heat and transfer the heat to hot wires 630 and 632. In one example, first heater 626 and second heater 628 may include first infrared heater and second infrared heater, respectively. In other examples, heaters 626 and 628 may include electric heaters, such as resistive heaters, which may be powered by a power source (e.g., battery, solar energy, etc.) of the head-mountable device. In other examples, heaters 626 and 628 rely on inherent heat sources, such as heat from exhaust air, heat dissipation of electrical components, heat dissipation from the user's head / face, etc. In some examples, first heater 626 and second heater 628 need not be the same type of heater.

[0104] In at least one example, the first heater 626 and the second heater 628 are configured to operate at alternating times. Specifically, the first heater 626 may be configured to operate for a first duration and the second heater 628 may be configured to operate for a second duration. For example, the first heat line 630 may be disposed along the cheekbone region 204 of the user's face, and the second heat line 632 may be disposed along the forehead region 203 of the user's face. When the sensor 520a or 520b detects that the cheekbone region 204 of the user's face has been subjected to prolonged contact, the first heater 626 may be operated to heat the heat line 630 for a first duration, thereby softening the foam pad (face joint 600) contacting the cheekbone region 204. In addition, when the sensor 520a or 520b detects that the forehead region 203 of the user's face has been subjected to prolonged contact, the first heater 626 may be disabled and the second heater 628 may be operated to heat the heat line 632 for a second duration, thereby softening the foam pad contacting the forehead region 203. In some examples, the first duration and the second duration may overlap. When the sensor 520a or 520b detects that both the cheekbone region 204 and the forehead region 203 of the user's face are subject to prolonged contact, both heaters 526 and 528 may be operated.

[0105] The zygomatic region 204 and the forehead region 203 are used as illustrative examples, but similar operations may be applied to the maxillary region 205. Additionally or alternatively, the head-mountable device may include a third heater and a third heat wire, such that there is one heater and one heat wire corresponding to each of the zygomatic region 204, the forehead region 203, and the maxillary region 205 of the user's face. Additionally or alternatively, the head-mountable device may include more than three heaters and more than three heat wires, such that one or more heaters and heat wires correspond to each of the zygomatic region 204, the forehead region 203, and the maxillary region 205 of the user's face.

[0106] Figure 6 Any of the features, components and / or parts shown (including their settings and configurations) may be included alone or in any combination in any other examples of devices, features, components and parts shown in other figures described herein. Similarly, any of the features, components and / or parts shown or described with reference to other figures (including their settings and configurations) may be included alone or in any combination in any other examples of devices, features, components and parts shown in other figures described herein. Figure 6 Examples of devices, features, components, and parts are shown.

[0107] Despite the above Figures 5 and 6 The description discusses pneumatic bladders and heat wires (e.g., solid heating or cooling wires) separately, but other specific implementations discussed below may include tubes, bladders, heat wires, etc. that are at least partially intermeshed. Figure 7 FIG. 7 shows a face joint 700 of a head mountable device having a pneumatic heat tensioner 722 according to one example. The face joint 700 is substantially similar to Figure 5 The face joint 500, Figure 6 The facial joint 600 and Figure 8 The face joint 800 of FIG. 800 is different from the face joint 700 in that the face joint 700 may include a different type of tensioner (e.g., a different stiffness profile modifier). The pneumatic thermal tensioner 722 is a type of stiffness profile modifier that may respond to sensor data (e.g., from sensors 118, 120a-120b and / or Figure 7 The face joint 700 may be automatically changed from having a first stiffness profile to having a second stiffness profile by a sensor (not shown in the figure) or other sensors. The face joint 700 may include a foam pad 740 or other thermally reactive material (e.g., a material that softens as the temperature increases and hardens as the temperature decreases).

[0108] The head mountable device may include a display portion having a display. The head mountable device may also include a first heater 726 and a second heater 728. The first heater 726 may include a first pneumatic hot wire 730 and may be configured to heat a first portion of a foam pad 740. The second heater 728 may include a second pneumatic hot wire 732 and may be configured to heat a second portion of the foam pad 740. The tensioner 722 may utilize an induced temperature flux to adjust the stiffness of various portions of the foam pad 740. In the depicted example, the tensioner 722 may generate an induced temperature flux along the first pneumatic hot wire 730 and the second pneumatic hot wire 732.

[0109] The first heater 726 and the second heater 728 may be components that generate heat and transfer heat to the first air hot wire 730 and the second air hot wire 732, respectively. In at least one example, the first heater 726 and the second heater 728 may include infrared heaters that may emit infrared radiation to heat the first air hot wire 730 and the second air hot wire 732. In another example, the first heater 726 and the second heater 728 may utilize hot exhaust from the head-mounted device to heat the first air hot wire 730 and the second air hot wire 732. As used herein, hot exhaust refers to heat output from the head-mounted device (e.g., generated by the operation of electronic components). In this case, the first heater 726 and / or the second heater 728 may direct the hot exhaust into the first air hot wire 730 and the second air hot wire 732. In such an example, the first heater 726 and the second heater 728 induce a temperature flux within the first air hot wire 730 and the second air hot wire 732 to change the facial joint 700 from having a first stiffness profile to having a second stiffness profile.

[0110] The first pneumatic heat wire 730 can extend along / in a first portion of the face engaging portion 700, and the second pneumatic heat wire 732 can extend along / in a second portion of the face engaging portion 700. In at least one example, the first portion and the second portion of the face engaging portion 700 are different, such that the first heater 726 and the second heater 728 heat different portions of the face engaging portion. For example, Figure 7 As depicted, the first pneumatic hot wire 730 extends along the outer periphery of the face engaging portion 700. The second pneumatic hot wire 732 extends along the inner periphery of the face engaging portion 700. In another example, the first pneumatic hot wire 730 may extend along at least one of the zygomatic region 205, the maxillary region 204, the forehead region 203, or the nasal region 202, and the second pneumatic hot wire 732 may extend along at least one different region of the zygomatic region 205, the maxillary region 204, the forehead region 203, or the nasal region 202.

[0111] In at least one example, the first pneumatic hot wire 730 and the second pneumatic hot wire 732 can include various features, such as branches 734 and 736, respectively. Figure 7 As shown, the branches 734 and 736 can alternatively be interwoven or intermeshed. Alternatively, the branches 734 and 736 can be interwoven, twisted, overlapped, etc. Such features can distribute the heat from the first pneumatic hot wire 730 and the second pneumatic hot wire 732 more evenly around the face joint 700.

[0112] In at least one example, the first heater 726 and the second heater 728 can be configured to operate at alternating times. Specifically, the first heater 726 can be configured to operate for a first duration when the second heater 728 is off. The second heater 728 can be configured to operate for a second duration when the first heater 726 is off. In another example, the first heater 726 and the second heater 728 can be configured to operate simultaneously for a first duration, while being off for a second duration, and for a third duration and a fourth duration, alternately operate (one off and the other on).

[0113] As shown above with respect to Figures 1 to Figure 6 As described, the head-mountable device may include a plurality of sensors to generate sensor data. The head-mountable device may include a controller communicatively coupled to the sensors, the first heater 726, and the second heater 728, and may operate the first heater 726 and the second heater 728 based on the sensor data. The sensors may be disposed at various locations of the head-mountable device, such as on / in the display portion, on / in the face joint 700, along a fixing strip, etc. For example, as Figure 7 As depicted in , the head mountable device may include a sensor 118 located within the display portion. The head mountable device may include sensors 120a and 120b located on the facial joint or foam pad 740.

[0114] In at least one example, sensor 118 may generate first sensor data. Sensor 120a may generate second sensor data. The first sensor data and / or the second sensor data may represent the user's facial comfort. Specifically, the first sensor data and / or the second sensor data may indicate the user's facial muscle condition, facial color, facial sensory condition, etc. The tensioner 722 may be configured to actuate when the first sensor data and the second sensor data meet corresponding sensor data thresholds.

[0115] In one example, sensor 118 may be a camera and sensor 120a may be a timer. Tensioner 722 may be actuated when a first threshold criterion is met, e.g., the camera detects that the user's face becomes sufficiently compressed or flushed (e.g., red or pink) where it contacts the face engaging portion 700. Additionally or alternatively, tensioner 722 may be actuated when a second threshold criterion is met, e.g., the timer has exceeded the duration that the face engaging portion has been in contact with the user's face. Additionally or alternatively, tensioner 722 may be actuated when both the first criterion and the second criterion are met.

[0116] In another example, sensor 120b may be a thermometer. Tensioner 722 may be actuated when a third threshold criterion is met, for example, the user's facial temperature has exceeded a set temperature. Tensioner 722 may be actuated when a first criterion, a second criterion, or a third criterion is met; when a first criterion and a second criterion are met; when a second criterion and a third criterion are met; when a third criterion and a first criterion are met; or when a first criterion, a second criterion, and a third criterion are met. Similar methods for determining when tensioner 722 is to be actuated may be applied to any applicable type of sensor and any number of sensors. Furthermore, the first sensor data, the second sensor data, and the third sensor data may correspond to measurements taken by different sensors, measurements taken by the same sensor at different times, or any combination.

[0117] In at least one example, the face joint 700 may have a first stiffness profile. The first stiffness profile may be a default stiffness profile, a preset or predefined stiffness profile, etc., or a stiffness profile determined based on first sensor data. As described above, based on the sensor measurements, the tensioner 722 may be actuated to change the face joint 700 from having the first stiffness profile to having a second stiffness profile. In addition, the tensioner 722 may be configured to automatically change the face joint from having the second stiffness profile to having a third stiffness profile in response to additional sensor data (e.g., data from an additional sensor, data acquired at a later time, or a combination).

[0118] Despite the above Figures 5 to 7 The description discusses pneumatic bladders, heat wires (e.g., solid heating or cooling wires), and pneumatic heating separately, but other specific implementations discussed below may include tubes, bladders, heat wires, etc. that are at least partially intermeshed. Figure 8 FIG. 8 shows a face joint 800 of a head mountable device having a mechanical tensioner 822 according to one example. The face joint 800 is substantially similar to Figures 5 to 7 The face engaging portion 800 is similar to the face engaging portion 500 - 700 , except that the face engaging portion 800 may include a different type of tensioner (eg, a different stiffness profile modifier). The face engaging portion 800 may include a stretchable and / or compressible foam pad 840 .

[0119] Specifically, the mechanical tensioner 822 may include (or be in communication with) a pulley system 826 having a wire 802 and one or more pulleys (e.g., pulleys 838a-838c). The wire 802 may be a rope, cord, cable, or another length of fiber that extends along / in at least a portion of the face engaging portion 800 and engages with the pulley 838a. The pulley 838a may be a wheel or bearing having a track around which the wire 802 may extend. The pulley 838a may be disposed at a location along the face engaging portion 800, such as at a corner or curved portion of the face engaging portion 800, such that the foam pad 840 is tightened by the wire 802 when the pulley system 826 is actuated. The pulley system 826 may include a mechanism for tightening / relaxing the wire 802. For example, the pulley system 826 may include a motor, a reel, a ratchet component, etc.

[0120] In these or other examples, the pulley system 826 can actuate certain pulleys to lift certain portions of the face engaging portion 800 away from the user's face. Additionally or alternatively, the pulley system 826 can actuate other pulleys to release, lower, or push portions of the face engaging portion 800 against the user's face. In some implementations, the actuatable portions are separated by unraised portions (e.g., the wire 802 can raise portions away from the user's face, wherein the raised portions are separated by unraised or lowered portions that remain in contact with the user's face). Similarly, another wire can be tensioned via a pulley to raise a previously unraised or lowered portion, while the tension of the wire 802 is released to lower a previously raised portion. Thus, two or more tensionable wires (such as the wire 802) can be actuated by the mechanical tensioner 822 to provide a dynamic response to the detected sensor data, as described above.

[0121] like Figure 8 As shown, pulley 838a is disposed at the corner of the facial joint 800 between the zygomatic region 205 and the maxillary region 204. In some examples, the pulley system 826 includes additional pulleys (such as pulley 838b and pulley 838c) that can be disposed at different locations along the facial joint 800. Figure 8 As depicted in , the pulley 838c is disposed at (different) corners of the facial joint 800 between the (second) zygomatic region 205 and the maxillary region 204. Figure 8 As shown, pulley 838b is disposed at the nasal region 202 of the facial joint 800. In at least one example, this particular configuration of pulleys 838a-838c can allow for the modifiable pressure zones along the zygomatic region 205, the maxillary region 204, and the nasal region 202 to be changed from having a first stiffness profile to having a second stiffness profile.

[0122] Although not explicitly shown, the pulley system 826 may include any number of pulleys disposed at various locations along the facial joint 800. For example, the pulley system may include a component including a pulley disposed at a corner between the forehead region and the (second) zygomatic region 205. In at least one example, this particular configuration of pulleys may allow for the modifiable pressure zones along the (second) zygomatic region 205 and the forehead region 203 to be varied or adjusted when the pulley system 826 is actuated.

[0123] Alternatively, although not explicitly shown, the components may include a pulley system. In this particular example, pulley system 826 and pulley system 828 may be actuated independently or simultaneously and symmetrically to modify the pressure areas along each of the zygomatic region 205, the maxillary region 204, the forehead region 203, and / or the nasal region 202. Actuation of pulley system 826 and / or pulley system 828 may be based on sensor data from sensors 118, 120a, 120b, etc.

[0124] In some examples, the head mountable device may also include more than one wire, such as wire 802. For example, the head mountable device may include a first wire 802 disposed between pulley system 826, pulley 838a, and pulley 838b; and a second wire disposed between pulley system 828, pulley 838c, and pulley 838b. This configuration may allow the pressure zones corresponding to the left and right sides of the face joint to be modified independently. In other examples, any number of wires, pulleys, and / or pulley systems may be implemented, specifically to customize the adjustability of various pressure zones around the perimeter of the face joint 800.

[0125] Figure 8 Any of the features, components, and / or parts shown (including their arrangements and configurations) may be included alone or in any combination in any other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in other figures described herein. Similarly, any of the features, components, and / or parts shown or described with reference to other figures (including their arrangements and configurations) may be included alone or in any combination in any other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in other figures described herein. Figure 8 Examples of devices, features, components and parts are shown below. Fig. 9 Provided herein are the Figure 8 Additional details of an exemplary device that includes any or all of the described features of an electronic device.

[0126] Fig. 9 A high-level block diagram of an electronic device 900 that can be used to implement examples of the present disclosure is shown. In various embodiments, the electronic device 900 may include Fig. 9 Various sets and subsets of components are shown. Thus, Fig. 9Various components are shown that can be included in various combinations and subsets based on the operations and functions performed by the electronic device 900 in different examples. It should be noted that when describing or reciting herein, unless otherwise specifically stated herein, the use of articles such as "a" or "an" is not to be construed as limited to only one, but is intended to mean one or more.

[0127] The electronic device 900 may include a central processing unit (CPU) or processor 902 connected via a bus 904 for electrical communication with a memory device 906, a power source 908, an electronic storage device 910, a network interface 912, an input device adapter 916, and an output device adapter 920. Additionally, the processor 902 may be communicatively coupled to a stiffness profile modifier 916 (e.g., a tensioner). For example, one or more of these components may be connected to each other via a substrate (e.g., a printed circuit board or other substrate) supporting the bus 904 and other electrical connectors that provide electrical communication between the components. The bus 904 may include a communication mechanism for transmitting information between the parts of the electronic device 900.

[0128] The processor 902 may be a microprocessor or similar device configured to receive and execute an instruction set 924 stored by a memory device 906. The memory device 906 may be referred to as a main memory, such as a random access memory (RAM) or another dynamic electronic storage device for storing information and instructions to be executed by the processor 902. The memory device 906 may also be used to store temporary variables or other intermediate information during the execution of instructions executed by the processor 902. The power supply 908 may include a power source capable of providing power to the processor 902 and other components connected to the bus 904, such as a connection to a utility grid or a battery system.

[0129] The storage device 910 may include a read-only memory (ROM) or another type of static storage device coupled to the bus 904 for storing static or long-term (i.e., non-dynamic) information and instructions for the processor 902. For example, the storage device 910 may include a magnetic or optical disk (e.g., a hard disk drive (HDD)), solid-state memory (e.g., a solid-state drive (SSD)), or the like.

[0130] Instructions 924 may include information for performing processes and methods using components of electronic device 900. Such processes and methods may include, for example, methods described in conjunction with other embodiments elsewhere herein, including, for example, in conjunction with Fig. 9 Describe the method and process.

[0131] The network interface 912 may include an adapter for connecting the electronic device 900 to an external device via a wired or wireless connection. For example, the network interface 912 may provide a connection to a computer network 926, such as a cellular network, the Internet, a local area network (LAN), a stand-alone device capable of wirelessly communicating with the network interface 912, other external devices, or a network location, and combinations thereof. In an example embodiment, the network interface 912 is a wireless networking adapter that is configured to connect to another device having an interface capability using the same protocol via WI-FI (R), Bluetooth (R), BLE, Bluetooth mesh, or a related wireless communication protocol. In some embodiments, a network device or a group of network devices in the network 926 may be considered to be part of the electronic device 900. In some cases, a network device may be considered to be connected to the electronic device 900, but not part of it.

[0132] The stiffness profile modifier 916 can be configured to receive input from various input devices, such as, for example, manual input 913 (e.g., from manual control 524), a keyboard or other peripheral input device, one or more sensors 928 (e.g., 118 and 120), an application 914, a timer 940, etc., related devices, and combinations thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, the stiffness profile modifier 916 is connected to the input sources described herein to determine the stiffness profile of the electronic device 900.

[0133] The output device adapter 920 may be configured to provide the electronic device 900 with the ability to output information to a user, such as by providing visual output using one or more displays 932, providing auditory output using one or more speakers 935, by providing tactile feedback sensed by touch via one or more tactile feedback devices 937, or by actuating a stiffness profile modifier 916. Other output devices may also be used. The processor 902 may be configured to control the output device adapter 920 to provide information to the user via an output device connected to the adapter 920.

[0134] Fig. 9 Any of the features, components and / or parts shown (including their arrangements and configurations) may be included alone or in any combination in any other examples of devices, features, components and parts shown in other figures described herein. Similarly, any of the features, components and / or parts shown or described with reference to other figures (including their arrangements and configurations) may be included alone or in any combination in any other examples of devices, features, components and parts shown in other figures described herein. Fig. 9 Examples of devices, features, components, and parts are shown.

[0135] To the extent applicable to the present technology, the collection and use of data obtained from various sources may be used to improve the delivery of inspirational content or any other content that may be of interest to users. The present disclosure contemplates that in some instances, such collected data may include personal information data that uniquely identifies or can be used to contact or locate a specific person. Such personal information data may include demographic data, location-based data, phone numbers, email addresses, ID, home address, data or records related to the user's health or fitness level (e.g., vital sign measurements, medication information, exercise information), date of birth, or any other identifying or personal information.

[0136] The present disclosure recognizes that the use of such personal information data in the present technology can be used to benefit users. For example, the personal information data can be used to deliver targeted content that users are more interested in. Therefore, the use of such personal information data enables users to have planned control over the content delivered. In addition, the present disclosure also anticipates other uses of personal information data that benefit users. For example, health and fitness data can be used to provide insights into the user's overall health status, or can be used as positive feedback to individuals who use technology to pursue health goals.

[0137] The disclosure anticipates that entities responsible for the collection, analysis, disclosure, transmission, storage or other purposes of such personal information data will comply with sound privacy policies and / or privacy measures. Specifically, such entities should implement and adhere to the use of privacy policies and practices that are recognized as meeting or exceeding the industry or government requirements for maintaining the privacy and security of personal information data. Such policies should be easy for users to access and should be updated as changes in the collection and / or use of data occur. Personal information from users should be collected for legal and reasonable entity purposes and should not be shared or sold outside these legal purposes. In addition, such collection / sharing should be carried out after receiving the informed consent of the user. In addition, such entities should consider taking any necessary steps to protect and safeguard access to such personal information data, and ensure that other entities with access to personal information data comply with their privacy policies and procedures. In addition, such entities can subject themselves to third-party assessments to prove that they comply with widely accepted privacy policies and practices. In addition, policies and practices should be adapted to specific types of personal information data collected and / or accessed, and to applicable laws and standards including considerations of special jurisdictions. For example, in the United States, the collection or acquisition of certain health data may be governed by federal and / or state laws, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA); while health data in other countries may be subject to other regulations and policies and should be handled accordingly. Therefore, different privacy measures should be advocated for different types of personal data in each country.

[0138] Regardless of the foregoing, the present disclosure also contemplates implementation schemes in which users selectively block the use or access of personal information data. That is, the present disclosure contemplates hardware elements and / or software elements to prevent or block access to such personal information data. For example, with respect to an advertising delivery service, the technology of the present invention may be configured to allow a user to choose to "opt in" or "opt out" to participate in the collection of personal information data at any time during or after registration for the service. In another example, a user may choose not to provide emotion-related data for a target content delivery service. In another example, a user may choose to limit the length of time that emotion-related data is retained, or completely prohibit the development of basic emotional conditions. In addition to providing "opt-in" and "opt-out" options, the present disclosure also contemplates providing notifications related to access or use of personal information. For example, a user may be notified that their personal information data will be accessed when downloading an application, and then the user may be reminded again just before the personal information data is accessed by the application.

[0139] In addition, the intention of the present disclosure is that personal information data should be managed and processed in a manner that minimizes the risk of unintentional or unauthorized access or use. Once the data is no longer needed, the risk can be minimized by limiting the collection of data and deleting the data. In addition, and when applicable, including in certain health-related applications, data de-identification can be used to protect the privacy of users. De-identification can be promoted when appropriate by removing specific identifiers (e.g., date of birth, etc.), controlling the amount or specificity of stored data (e.g., collecting location data at the city level rather than at the address level), controlling how the data is stored (e.g., aggregating data between users), and / or other methods.

[0140] Thus, while the present disclosure broadly covers the use of personal information data to implement one or more of the various disclosed embodiments, the present disclosure also contemplates that various embodiments may also be implemented without access to such personal information data. That is, various embodiments of the present technology will not fail to function properly due to the lack of all or a portion of such personal information data. For example, content may be selected and delivered to a user by inferring preferences based on non-personal information data or an absolute minimum amount of personal information, such as content requested by a device associated with the user, other non-personal information available to a content delivery service, or publicly available information.

[0141] For the purpose of illustration, the foregoing description uses specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details are not required in order to practice the embodiments. Therefore, for the purpose of illustration and description, the foregoing description of the specific embodiments described herein is presented. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise form disclosed. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that, in view of the above teachings, many modifications and variations are feasible.

Claims

1. A head-mounted device, comprising: A display part, the display part comprising a display; a face engaging portion connected to the display portion, the face engaging portion including a variable stiffness profile; a sensor configured to generate sensor data; and A stiffness profile modifier is coupled to the sensor, the stiffness profile modifier being configured to change the facial engagement portion from a first stiffness profile to a second stiffness profile in response to the sensor data.

2. The head-mountable device according to claim 1, further comprising a fixing component capable of being connected to the display portion, the fixing component comprising: a removable strip comprising electronics; and a retaining strap connectable to the removable strap; in: The face engaging portion includes a heat reactive foam; The stiffness profile modifier includes a heater; The first stiffness profile includes a first configuration of a first stiffened region and a first relaxed region; and The second stiffness profile includes a second configuration of a second stiffened region different from the first stiffened region and a second relaxed region different from the first relaxed region.

3. The head mountable device of claim 1, wherein the first stiffness profile is based on user activity. 4 . The head mountable device of claim 1 , wherein the stiffness profile modifier induces a temperature flux to change the facial joint from the first stiffness profile to the second stiffness profile. The head mountable device of claim 1 , wherein the stiffness profile modifier comprises a pump.

6. The head mountable device of claim 1, wherein the stiffness profile modifier is further configured to change the facial joint from the second stiffness profile to a third stiffness profile in response to additional sensor data.

7. The head mountable device of claim 1, further comprising a manual control to actuate the stiffness profile modifier. The head mountable device of claim 1 , wherein the sensor comprises a timer.

9. The head mountable device of claim 1, wherein the sensor is positioned on or within the facial joint.

10. An apparatus comprising: A display part, the display part comprising a display; a face engaging structure having a first modifiable pressure region and a second modifiable pressure region; a tensioner comprising at least one of a mechanical tensioner or a pneumatic tensioner connected to the first modifiable pressure region and the second modifiable pressure region; a first sensor configured to generate first sensor data; and a second sensor configured to generate second sensor data; Wherein the tensioner is configured to actuate when the first sensor data satisfies a first threshold criterion and the second sensor data satisfies a second threshold criterion.

11. The device of claim 10, wherein the tensioner comprises at least one of a spring, an actuator, or a magnet.

12. The device of claim 10, wherein the tensioner comprises at least one of a pulley or a bladder.

13. The device of claim 10, wherein the first sensor comprises a camera, and the second sensor comprises at least one of a tissue displacement sensor or an electrical signal sensor.

14. The device according to claim 10, wherein: The first modifiable pressure region corresponds to at least one of a zygomatic region, a maxillary region, or a forehead region on a human head; and The second modifiable pressure zone corresponds to at least one of a zygomatic region, a maxillary region, or a forehead region on a human head that is different from the first modifiable pressure zone.

15. A wearable device comprising: A display part, the display part comprising a display; a foam pad connected to the display portion; a first heater configured to heat a first portion of the foam pad; a second heater configured to heat a second portion of the foam pad different from the first portion of the foam pad; sensor; and A controller is communicatively coupled to the sensor, the first heater, and the second heater.

16. The wearable device of claim 15, wherein the foam pad comprises a thermo-reactive foam.

17. The wearable device of claim 15, wherein the first heater and the second heater are configured to operate at alternating times.

18. The wearable device of claim 15, wherein: The first heater comprises a first infrared heater; and The second heater includes a second infrared heater.

19. The wearable device of claim 15, wherein: The first heater comprises a first pneumatic hot wire; and The second heater includes a second pneumatic hot wire.

20. The wearable device of claim 15, wherein the first heater and the second heater are configured to use hot exhaust gas from the wearable device.

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