Electronic device with buffer

Abstract

An electronic device having a buffer. A head-mountable device includes a display frame, an optical component disposed within the display frame, a face interface, and a rigid buffer connected to the display frame. A rigid bumper may be positioned between the display frame and the face interface, and may also define a gap between the optical component and the face interface. The face joint may also include a cushion layer that may be rated to withstand an applied load within a first range of forces. Further, a stopper may be connected to the head-mountable display, the stopper may be rated to withstand an applied load within a second force range higher than the first force range. The face interface may also include a front surface facing the head-mountable display and a rear surface contactable to the face. A set of structural columns may also be attached to the head-mountable display and positioned adjacent the forehead region and maxillary region of the face, wherein a portion of each structural column of the set of structural columns may be embedded in the face interface.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 585,564, filed on September 26, 2023, entitled “ELECTRONIC DEVICE WITH BUMPER,” the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference into this document. Technical Field

[0003] The embodiments described herein generally relate to electronic devices and more particularly to structural posts or bumpers for head-mountable devices. Background Art

[0004] Recent advances in portable computing have enabled head-mounted devices (HMDs) to provide augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) experiences to users. These HMDs have many components, such as a display, viewing frame, lenses, batteries, and other components. Certain components of the HMD can also help create a unique user experience. The HMD typically includes a display and a set of optical components that enable a user to view and interact with visualizations presented by the components of the HMD.

[0005] These and other components of the HMD may include components that are sensitive to stress and strain (e.g., from applied forces or force distributions). Additionally or alternatively, some components may be fixed in position and should not be moved. Therefore, there is a continuing need for HMDs with more structural integrity that can help protect certain components while also maintaining (or at least not compromising) user comfort. Summary of the invention

[0006] In various examples of the present disclosure, a device includes a display frame, an optical component disposed within the display frame, a face engaging portion, and a rigid buffer. The rigid buffer may be connected to the display frame and positioned between the display frame and the face engaging portion, wherein the rigid buffer may further define a fixed gap between the optical component and the face engaging portion.

[0007] In at least one example, the face engaging portion may include a compressible portion, wherein the compressible portion may be compressed before it is hard stopped by the rigid bumper. In some examples, the rigid bumper may include a force rating in excess of 20 Newtons. In another example, the force rating of the rigid bumper may exceed 1000 Newtons.

[0008] In some examples, the rigid bumper can be constructed from an aluminum material, a fiber reinforced plastic material, or an engineered plastic material. The rigid bumper can also be positionally fixed relative to the display frame and the face engaging portion. In some examples, the rigid bumper can include a portion embedded within the face engaging portion, wherein the portion of the rigid bumper embedded within the face engaging portion can be obscured from an external view of the face engaging portion.

[0009] In various examples of the present disclosure, the face engaging portion may include a front surface opposite to a rear surface, wherein the rear surface may also be a skin-facing surface. The rigid bumper may also include an end surface attachable to the front surface of the face engaging portion.

[0010] In at least one example, the face engaging portion may include a cushioning layer having a front surface facing the head mountable display. In some examples, the cushioning layer may be rated to withstand an applied load within a first force range. A stop may also be connected to the head mountable display and the front surface, wherein the stop may be rated to withstand an applied load within a second force range that is higher than the first force range. In at least one example, an end surface of the stop may be connected to the front surface of the face engaging portion such that the full length of the stop may be positioned in series with the face engaging portion.

[0011] In some examples of the present disclosure, the cushion layer may include a travel amount configured to bottom out against a stop at the end of the first force range. Additionally, at the end of the first force range, the stop may be configured to begin to provide a normal force against the applied load. In at least one example, the stop may also be removable.

[0012] In various examples, the face joint can have a front surface facing the head-mounted display and a rear surface contacting the face. A set of structural posts can also be attached to the head-mounted display and can be positioned adjacent to the forehead region and the maxillary region of the face. In some examples, a portion of each structural post in the set of structural posts can be embedded in the face joint.

[0013] In another example of the present invention, the energy dissipation layer may be positioned in front of the front surface of the face engaging portion. In this example, a portion of each structural column in the set of structural columns may also be embedded in the energy dissipation layer.

[0014] In at least one example, the end portion of each structural post in the set of structural posts is positioned in front of the rear surface of the face engaging portion. In another example, the end portion of each structural post in the set of structural posts can be positioned substantially flush with the rear surface of the face engaging portion. Additionally, in at least one example, the end portion of each structural post can include a cover sheet, wherein the cover sheet can include a foam sheet or a fabric sheet. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] 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:

[0016] Figure 1A A top profile view of an exemplary head mountable device including an exemplary rigid buffer is shown.

[0017] Figure 1B A side profile view of an exemplary head mountable device including an exemplary rigid buffer is shown.

[0018] Figure 1C A top profile view of an exemplary head mountable device including an exemplary rigid buffer is shown.

[0019] Figure 2A A force-deflection graph of a portion of an exemplary head mountable device is shown.

[0020] Figure 2B Another force-deflection graph of a portion of another example head mountable device is shown.

[0021] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B Exemplary locations of rigid bumpers implemented in tandem with the face engaging portion are shown.

[0022] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C Another exemplary position of a rigid bumper is shown that is achieved at least partially parallel to the face engaging portion.

[0023] Figure 5A and Figure 5B Another exemplary implementation of a rigid bumper is shown.

[0024] Figure 6 Yet another exemplary implementation of a rigid bumper together with an energy dissipating layer is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] 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.

[0026] The following disclosure relates generally to electronic devices, and specifically to head-mounted electronic devices (or head-mounted devices). In at least one example, the head-mounted device may include a viewing frame and a fixed arm (or strap / strap) extending from the viewing frame. Examples of head-mounted electronic devices may include virtual reality or augmented reality devices with optical components. In the case of an augmented reality device, optical glasses or frames may be worn on the user's head so that an optical window (which may include a transparent window, a lens, or a display) may be positioned in front of the user's eyes. In another example, a virtual reality device may be worn on the user's head so that a display screen is located in front of the user's eyes. The viewing frame may include a housing (e.g., a display housing or a display frame) or other structural components that support optical components (e.g., a lens or a display window) or various electronic components.

[0027] In addition, the head-mounted electronic device may include one or more electronic components for operating the head-mounted electronic device. These components may include any components of the head-mounted electronic device for generating a virtual or augmented reality experience. For example, the electronic components may include one or more projectors, waveguides, speakers, processors, batteries, circuit components including wires and circuit boards, or any other electronic components used in the head-mounted device to deliver enhanced or virtual reality visual, sound, and other outputs. Various electronic components may be arranged in an electronic component housing. In some examples, various electronic components may be arranged in or attached to one or more of a display frame, an electronic component housing, or a fixed arm.

[0028] More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a rigid buffer for a head-mounted electronic device (or head-mountable device). For example, a rigid buffer as disclosed herein relates to a force distribution element or structural column for a head-mountable device that can be used as a protective roll cage or fixed offset for sensitive components (e.g., optical components) disposed within a head-mounted device (hereinafter referred to as an "HMD"). In some examples, the rigid buffer of the present invention can also establish a comfort zone in which more flexible elements (such as the facial joint discussed below) can be flexibly moved and adjusted. In a specific example, the rigid buffer of the present invention is actually separate from (or is a discrete element relative to) the flexible comfort element of the HMD.

[0029] In at least one example, a head mountable device may include a display frame, an optical component disposed within the display frame, and a facial joint. A rigid buffer may be connected to the display frame and positioned between the display frame and the facial joint, wherein the rigid buffer may also define a fixed gap between the optical component and the facial joint. The fixed gap between the optical component and the facial joint may help maintain the structural or component integrity of the optical component. For example, the rigid buffer and the fixed gap may prevent the facial joint from flexing into the optical component and damaging the optical component. In at least one example, the configuration of the rigid buffer (or the arrangement of multiple rigid buffers) and the facial joint may enable the head mountable device to distribute the applied force applied to the head mountable device.

[0030] Current wearable devices are generally not suitable for (or rated to withstand) a wide range of applied forces directed to various areas of the head-mounted device and / or the user's head. Therefore, conventional wearable devices (e.g., HMDs) are difficult to equip to protect sensitive components and maintain user comfort. In contrast, the various examples of rigid buffers described herein are designed for user comfort and the overall structural integrity of the device. Any component of the disclosed device, including the facial joint, rigid buffer, energy dissipation layer, and other components mentioned herein, can be designed and strategically placed to maintain the overall comfort of the user and / or the structural integrity of the device.

[0031] In one specific example, the face engaging portion may include a compressible portion, wherein the compressible portion may be compressed before being hard stopped by the rigid buffer. In some examples, the compression of the compressible portion may be rated to withstand an applied load within a first force range. Additionally, the rigid buffer may be rated to withstand an applied load within a second force range that is higher than the first force range. This may allow the head mountable device to withstand and dissipate a wide range of applied loads while providing comfort to the user and maintaining the overall structural integrity of the device.

[0032] In another example of the present disclosure, the rigid buffer can be fixed in position relative to the display frame and the face engaging portion. In a specific example, the rigid buffer can be positioned between the face engaging portion and the display frame, wherein the full length of the rigid buffer can be placed in series with the face engaging portion. When a force is applied to the device, this can cause the face engaging portion to fully compress before being hard stopped by the rigid buffer.

[0033] In at least one example, a portion of the rigid bumper may be embedded in the face engaging portion. In some examples of the invention, the rigid bumper may be positioned substantially flush with the rear surface of the face engaging portion. This may enable the face engaging portion and the rigid bumper to work simultaneously (e.g., in series or in parallel) to distribute forces applied to the device, thereby providing structural integrity and user comfort.

[0034] In at least one example, the head mountable device may further include an energy dissipation layer that may be positioned in front of the front surface of the face engaging portion (wherein the rear surface of the face engaging portion may include a skin-facing surface to contact the user's face). In this example, a portion of the rigid bumper may also be embedded in the energy dissipation layer, thereby enabling the head mountable device to further distribute forces and maintain structural integrity throughout the body of the device.

[0035] The HMD of the present invention may include a plurality of rigid buffers positioned at specific locations. For example, a head-mountable device may include a set of rigid buffers, wherein the set of rigid buffers may be attached to the head-mountable display and may be positioned adjacent to the forehead region and the maxillary region of the face. Other exemplary buffer locations (e.g., the zygomatic region) are also contemplated herein. This may enable the head-mountable device to better distribute applied loads over a larger surface area, thereby improving user comfort during operation of the device.

[0036] The following refers to Figures 1 to Figure 6 These and other embodiments are discussed. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description of these figures given herein 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 comprising one of each listed option (e.g., only one first option, only one second option, only one third option), a plurality of a single listed option (e.g., two or more first options), two options simultaneously (e.g., one first option and one second option), or a combination thereof (e.g., two first options and one second option).

[0037] FIG. 1 shows a top profile view of a head-mounted device 100 worn on a user's head 102 according to one or more examples of the present disclosure. Although the present system and method are described in the context of the head-mounted device 100, the system and method can be used with any wearable device or any device or system that can be physically attached to the user's body, but is particularly related to an electronic device worn on the user's head 102. The head-mounted device 100 may include a display frame 104, wherein the display frame 104 may be configured to accommodate various components. As used herein, the terms "display frame," "frame," and "housing" may refer to a portion of a head-mounted device that includes a display or display window. As used herein, the terms "display" or "display window" may refer to a lens, cover glass, or another surface designed to display a projected image on a slightly transparent surface, or any other component that presents visual media or information to a user.

[0038] In at least one example, the optical component 106 can be disposed in the display frame 104. In some examples, the optical component 106 can include one or more optical lenses or display screens disposed in front of the user's eyes. The optical component 106 can also include a display, where the display can be used to present an augmented reality visualization, a virtual reality visualization, or other suitable visualization to the user.

[0039] In at least one example, the head mountable device 100 may include a face joint 108, wherein the face joint 108 may be a portion of the head mountable device 100 that may engage a user's face via direct contact. In some examples, the face joint 108 may be constructed of various materials so that the face joint 108 can conform to or compress directly to the user's face. The ability of the face joint 108 to conform to the user's face may be advantageous because it may provide a comfortable experience to a wide variety of different users, accommodating different head and face shapes. The ability of the face joint 108 to compress may also be advantageous because the force applied to the head mountable device 100 may be reduced and distributed across the user's head 102. In the event that an applied force is applied to the head mountable device 100, the face joint 108 may compress and absorb a portion of the applied force, thereby providing a more comfortable experience for the user.

[0040] Additionally, in some examples, the face interface 108 may include various components that form a structure, a webbing, a cover, a webbing, or a frame of the head mountable device 100, which are disposed between the optical component 106 and the user's head 102. In at least one example, the face interface 108 may include a seal (e.g., a light seal, an environmental seal, a dust seal, an air seal, etc.). In addition to a full seal, the term "seal" may also include a partial seal or a suppressor (e.g., a partial face interface that blocks some ambient light and a full face interface that blocks all ambient light when the head mountable device 100 is worn).

[0041] In some examples, the face joint 108 may be attached to the rigid buffer 110 or positioned adjacent to the rigid buffer. As used herein, the terms "rigid buffer", "stopper" or "structural column" may be used interchangeably to refer to a support, a rear stopper, a bulwark, an absorber, a buffer, a column or a block. In these or other examples, the rigid buffer may be fixed in position relative to other components of the head-mounted device 100. Specifically, the rigid buffer may include a hard, rigid or hardened material (e.g., for resisting impact forces or bending moments, transmitting applied loads, or providing a fixed reference). In some examples, the rigid buffer includes a metal material (e.g., aluminum), an engineering plastic material, a fiber-reinforced plastic material, etc. Therefore, in a specific example, the rigid buffer 110 may be a structural column that can extend from the display frame 104. The rigid buffer 110 may also be adjacent to and / or at least partially embedded in the face joint 108 (as discussed below). In at least one example, the face joint 108 can be removed from the head-mounted device 100 by using a button, a snap or other disengagement method.

[0042] The rigid buffer 110 can be arranged in various ways in terms of position. For example, the rigid buffer 110 can be connected to the display frame 104 and disposed between the display frame 104 and the face engaging portion 108, wherein the front end of the rigid buffer 110 can be attached to the rear end of the display frame 104, and the rear end of the rigid buffer 110 can be attached to the front end of the face engaging portion 108. In at least one example, the rigid buffer 110 can define a fixed gap 112 between the optical component 106 and the face engaging portion 108.

[0043] In some examples, the rigid buffer 110 can be attached to the display frame 104 using fasteners 114. Examples of fasteners may include screws, clamps, locks, or any other fastening devices. The use of fasteners 114 may enable a user to remove or detach the rigid buffer 110. This may allow the user to access other components disposed within the head mountable device 100, or to replace the rigid buffer 110 with a buffer of a different size and / or shape. Additionally or alternatively, the rigid buffer 110 may be positionally adjustable for different force mappings (e.g., force distribution according to finite element analysis), different facial contours, and / or for user comfort. In an alternative embodiment, the rigid buffer 110 is permanently fixed in place and cannot be removed without specific tools and access.

[0044] In addition, as shown in FIG. 1 , the head-mounted device 100 includes one or more arms 108, 110. Arms 116a, 116b are connected to the display frame 104 and extend distally toward the rear of the head 102. The arms 116a, 116b are configured to fix the display frame 104 in a certain position relative to the user's head 102 (e.g., so that the display frame 104 remains in front of the user's eyes 120). For example, the arms 116a, 116b extend above the user's ears 118. In some examples, the arms 116a, 116b may rest on the user's ears 118 to fix the head-mounted device 100 via friction between the arms 116a, 116b and the user's head 102. For example, the arms 116a, 116b may apply opposing pressure to the sides of the user's head 102 to fix the head-mounted device 100 to the user's head 102. Optionally, the arms 116a, 116b can be connected to each other via a strap 103 (shown in phantom) that can press the head mountable device 100 against the user's head 102. In a specific example, the strap 103 is connected to at least the frame or face-engaging portion 108 of the display frame 104.

[0045] In a particular example, the arms 116a, 116b are connected to the display frame 104 via a pivot joint 115. The pivot joint 115 can be external or internal relative to the arms 116a, 116b and / or the display frame 104. In these or other examples, the pivot joint 115 can allow the display frame 104 to rotate about the pivot joint 115 independently of the arms 116a, 116b. To this end, the pivot joint 115 can include a detent hinge, a friction hinge, a passive hinge, a full locking hinge, etc.

[0046] Figure 1BA side view of the head mountable device 100 is shown. In at least one example, the facial joint 108 can extend around the user's face. In some examples, the facial joint 108 can extend backward behind the user's eyes 120 and downward to the user's nose 122. This can enable the facial joint 108 to make extended contact with the user's head 102. In addition, in at least one example, the facial joint 108 can be configured to contact the user's head at other locations, such as the maxillary, lateral forehead, central forehead, and cheekbone areas of the user's head 102. This can be advantageous for the user because the head mountable device 100 can better conform to the user's head 102. In some examples, an applied force can be applied to the head mountable device 100. In this case, the facial joint 108 can be further compressed to the user's head 102 to reduce the force felt by the user and / or provide a desired fit. The extended contact of the face engaging portion 108 around the user's eyes 120 and on the user's nose 122 may also be advantageous because it may distribute the compression over a larger surface area, thereby further reducing the applied force felt by the user.

[0047] In at least one example, the rigid bumper 110 can extend from the optical component 106 toward the user's head 102. The stiffness of the rigid bumper 110 can help protect or maintain the structural integrity of the optical component 106. To illustrate, in some examples, the rigid bumper 110 can be made of a material having a range of stiffnesses that can withstand different applied forces and / or give the head mountable device 100 a specific force rating. In some examples, the stiffness range is about 100 N / mm to about 2500 N / mm, about 250 N / mm to about 1500 N / mm, or about 500 N / mm to about 1000 N / mm. This range of stiffness can further increase the structural integrity of the head mountable device 100 because the rigid bumper 110 can be in a fixed position relative to the display frame 104.

[0048] In these or other examples, the term "force rating" refers to a level, amount, degree, range, value, binary value, or grade corresponding to the ability of a component to withstand an applied force (or in some cases, a predetermined force, a standard force, or a force range). In some examples, the force rating indicates the ability of a component to deform elastically but not plastically (or permanently) in response to an applied force. In some examples, the force rating indicates the ability of a component to deform plastically within a predetermined deformation range (e.g., an acceptable strain or deflection range) in response to an applied force. Similarly, in some examples, the force rating may refer to an engineering standard, a testing standard, etc. To illustrate a few examples, the rigid buffer 110 may include a force rating of more than 20 Newtons. In a specific implementation, the rigid buffer 110 may include a force rating of more than 1000 Newtons. Similarly, in some implementations, the rigid buffer 110 may include a force rating that meets one or more requirements of the augmented, virtual, and mixed reality testing and certification standard UL8400.

[0049] In certain examples, manufacturing methods may be implemented to impart specific material properties, including stiffness, to the rigid bumper 110. Some examples include cold rolling, annealing, precipitation hardening, case hardening, flame hardening, quenching, and tempering. In at least one example, the rigid bumper 110 may also be covered with a coating 124, wherein the coating 124 may increase the stiffness of the rigid bumper 110. Additionally or alternatively, the rigid bumper 110 may include a structural design (e.g., a lattice structure, a honeycomb structure, a custom machined structure, a hollowed-out structure, etc.) that may reduce weight and / or impart material properties, including desired anisotropic directional properties.

[0050] Figure 1C 1 shows a front view of the head mountable device 100. Figure 1C As shown, the rigid bumper 110 can be a set of structural posts attached to the display frame 104. The rigid bumper 110 can be adjacent to different areas of the user's head 102. In some examples, the rigid bumper 110 can be positioned adjacent to different areas of the user's head 102. For example, the rigid bumper 110 can be placed adjacent to the maxillary, lateral / central forehead, and zygomatic areas of the user's head 102.

[0051] As used herein, the term "frontal region" refers to the region of a human face between the eyes and the scalp of a person. Additionally, the term "zygomatic region" refers to the region of a human face corresponding to the zygomatic structure of a person. Similarly, the term "maxillary region" refers to the region of a human face corresponding to the maxillary structure of a person.

[0052] The relative positioning of the rigid bumper 110 to specific areas of the user's head 102 can comfortably distribute applied loads around the user's head 102. This can be advantageous because the rigid bumper 110 positioned adjacent to different areas of the user's head 102 can enable the head mountable device 100 to maintain structural integrity when forces are applied to the head mountable device 100 from various angles, thereby providing increased comfort to the user in a variety of situations.

[0053] In addition, the head mountable device 100 may include a contour geometry with a segment-based response to an applied force. In at least one example, the head mountable device 100 may respond to an applied force in segments. For example, the segments of the head mountable device 100 may be divided into at least a maxillary portion, a lateral forehead portion, and a central forehead portion. In some examples, these different segments may be optimized for response to the surface and skin shape of the user's head and for the bone shape of these segments. Different segments of the head mountable device 100 may be configured to conform to the bone structure of the user's face in a particular segment. For example, the maxillary segment may be configured to conform to the maxillary structure to respond to an applied force.

[0054] Additionally, in some examples, different sections of the head mountable device 100 described above may be configured to react in a set order. In some examples, the order in which the sections react may be adjusted to produce different series of contacts. This may be advantageous because different series of contacts may help distribute the applied force with respect to the type of force applied and the location where the force is applied. For example, a force applied to the maxillary section of the head mountable device 100 may react with a specific series of contacts that helps distribute the applied force to other sections of the head mountable device 100.

[0055] In at least one example, the head mountable device 100 can also include an optical housing or module that carries an optical component (e.g., a sensor, an LED, a camera, etc.). In these or other examples, the rigid buffer 110 can include a fixed reference relative to the optical module. In certain cases, the rigid buffer 110 can include a specific radius that determines a fixed offset relative to the optical module (e.g., to help ensure that the rigid buffer 110 itself is not pushed into the optical component). In some examples, the optical segment can have a radius of about 0.1 mm to about 10 mm, about 0.5 mm to about 5 mm, or about 1 mm to about 1.5 mm.

[0056] Figures 1A to 1CAny of the features, components and / or parts shown (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 figures. Similarly, any of the features, components and / or parts shown in other figures (including their arrangements and configurations) may be included alone or in any combination in Figures 1A to 1C The following description discusses force-deflection curves that graphically depict how exemplary implementations of face engaging portions and rigid bumpers react to applied forces.

[0057] Figure 2A and Figure 2B A force-deflection graph of a head mountable device according to one or more examples of the present disclosure is shown. In at least one example, when a force is applied to the head mountable device 100, different components of the head mountable device 100 may be engaged to absorb and distribute the applied force (and / or prevent components from bending into sensitive optical components). In at least one example, these components may include, but are not limited to, a facial joint 108, a rigid buffer 110, or a combination of both the facial joint 108 and the rigid buffer 110 of the head mountable device 100. In the event of an applied force applied to the device, the force felt by the user may be less than the force applied to the device, thereby providing the user with a more comfortable experience when operating the head mountable device 100.

[0058] As the magnitude of the applied force increases, different combinations of components disposed in the head mountable device 100 may be used to deflect some of such force. Figure 2A A graph is shown in which a first force range 226 and a second force range 228 of force-deflection may exist. The first force range 226 may include a force-deflection relationship of a lower applied force that may be deflected by the face engaging portion 108. In some examples, the low applied force applied to the head mountable device 100 shown in the first force range 226 may be mostly or completely absorbed by the compression of the face engaging portion 108. In at least one example, the first force range 226 may include an applied force from 0 Newtons (N) up to a force threshold 230. The force threshold 230 may be in a range of about 2N to about 1000N, about 5N to about 700N, about 10N to about 100N, or about 12N to about 20N.

[0059] In some examples, the applied force may exceed the force threshold 230 when a greater applied force is applied to the head mountable device 100. In these examples, the face joint 108 may not be able to fully absorb the force applied to the head mountable device 100. In some examples, the head mountable device 100 may combine the absorption / deflection capabilities of both the face joint 108 and the rigid buffer 110, thereby increasing the amount of force that can be distributed on the head mountable device 100. Thus, the applied force exceeding the threshold 230 may be absorbed by the combination of the face joint 108 and the rigid buffer 110. For example, when the applied force causes the face joint 108 to compress (and, in some cases, locally bottom out or fully compress), the rigid buffer 110 may handle the higher force load that the face joint 108 cannot handle.

[0060] In at least one example, the second force range 228 can include a force-deflection relationship for a higher applied force that can be absorbed by the rigid buffer 110. In some examples, the higher applied force applied to the head mountable device 100 shown in the second force range 228 can be mostly or completely absorbed by the stiffness of the rigid buffer 110, where the rigid buffer 110 can apply a normal force opposite to the applied force. In at least one example, the second force range 228 can include forces from the threshold 230 up to more than 5000N, forces between the threshold 230 up to about 3000N, or forces between the threshold 230 up to about 1500N. However, in some specific implementations (such as those described below with respect to FIG. 4A to FIG. 6 The rigid bumper 110 may also provide normal force or other structural support at loads below the threshold 230, as discussed above. Additionally, in some implementations, the force-deflection curve may include a gap between the first force range 226 and the second force range 228 (e.g., such that the threshold 230 may include a force range that exceeds the capabilities of the face joint 108 but is too low to cause any deflection in the rigid bumper 110).

[0061] Figure 2BAnother force-deflection graph of a head mountable device according to one or more examples of the present disclosure is shown. In one example, the force-deflection graph can be divided into a first force range 226, a second force range 228, and a third force range 232, wherein the third force range 232 can separate the first two regions. The first force range 226 can include a force-deflection relationship of a lower applied force that can be absorbed by the face joint 108, and the second force range 228 can include a force-deflection relationship of a higher applied force that can be absorbed by the rigid buffer 110. In some examples, a low force threshold 234 can separate the first force range 226 from the third force range 232, wherein the third force range 232 can include a force-deflection relationship of a force that can be absorbed by a combination of both the face joint 108 and the rigid buffer 110. In one example, a high force threshold 236 can separate the third force range 232 from the second force range 228.

[0062] In another example, Figure 2B The third force range 232 shown in FIG. 2 may include forces deflected by the energy dissipation layer 660, such as Figure 6 . In this example, adding the energy dissipation layer 660 may enable the head mountable device 100 to deflect a greater amount of applied force without moving into the second force range 228. This may be advantageous for the head mountable device 100 because more energy may be absorbed / deflected before the magnitude of the applied force crosses the high force threshold 236, thereby increasing the structural integrity of the head mountable device and / or the comfort of the user when faced with greater forces applied to the device.

[0063] Figure 2A and Figure 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 of the other examples of devices, features, components and parts shown in other figures. Similarly, any of the features, components and / or parts shown in other figures (including their arrangements and configurations) may be included alone or in any combination in Figure 2A and Figure 2B Examples of devices, features, components, and portions are shown.

[0064] The following description discusses the interaction between a facial joint and a rigid bumper arranged in a "tandem" (e.g., back-to-back) joint-bumper configuration. According to one or more examples of the present disclosure, Figure 3A and Figure 3B308. An exemplary position of a rigid buffer is shown. In at least one example, the rigid buffer 310 can be fixed in position relative to the display frame 304 and the face interface 308, wherein the rigid buffer 310 is positioned between the display frame 304 and the face interface 308. In this example, the display frame 304, the rigid buffer 310, and the face interface 308 can be configured in series with each other. This can be advantageous for the user because the series configuration can isolate different components of the head mountable device 300 because they can work independently to dissipate forces applied to the head mountable device 300.

[0065] In at least one example, the face engaging portion 308 may include a front surface 338, wherein the front surface 338 may be opposite to a rear surface 340. The rear surface 340 of the face engaging portion 308 may be configured to contact the user's skin. In some examples, the rigid bumper 310 may include an end surface 342 that may be attached to the front surface 338 of the face engaging portion 308, wherein the full length of the rigid bumper 310 may be positioned in front of the face engaging portion 308. In addition, a front end 354 of the rigid bumper 310 may be attached to a rear side 356 of the display frame 304, wherein the full length of the rigid bumper 310 may be disposed between the display frame 304 and the face engaging portion 308. This configuration may enable the display frame 304, the rigid bumper 310, and the face engaging portion 308 to be connected in series with each other.

[0066] In at least one example, the positioning of the rigid bumper 310 can create a gap 312 between the face engaging portion 308 and the optical component 306. The gap 312 can be defined as a gap, distance, or overall spacing between the optical component 306 and the face engaging portion 308. The gap 312 can be advantageous because it can maintain a fixed distance between the face engaging portion 308 and the optical component 306, so that the optical component 306 can be maintained at a distance desired by the user to comfortably operate the head mountable device 300.

[0067] Figure 3B An example of components disposed in a head mountable device 300 configured in series with one another is shown, wherein an applied load 346 is applied to the head mountable device 300. The applied load 346 may include any external force or internal force applied to the head mountable device 300. For example, an external object pressing against the head mountable device 300 may be an external force, while the action of holding the head mountable device 300 on the user's head 102 may be an example of an internal applied load 346. In at least one example, the face joint 308 may include a cushioning layer 344. In some examples, the cushioning layer 344 forms the entire face joint 308. In other examples, the cushioning layer 344 includes a discrete layer having specific material properties that are different from other portions of the face joint 308. In some examples, the cushioning layer 344 is a foam layer.

[0068] In these or other examples, the cushion layer 344 can be a compressible portion of the face engaging portion 308. In some examples, the cushion layer 344 can be compressed before it is hard stopped by the rigid bumper 310, such as Figure 3B In some examples, the cushioning layer 344 of the face engaging portion 308 may be rated to withstand an applied load 346 within the first force range 226, such as Figure 2A . In addition, in some examples, the cushioning layer 344 can include a stroke length 348. The stroke length 348 can be a distance that the cushioning layer 344 can be compressed when a load is applied to the head mountable device 300. In some examples, the cushioning layer 344 can be configured to bottom out against the rigid buffer 310 at the end of the first force range 226. The cushioning layer 344 and the associated stroke length 348 can enable the head mountable device 300 to distribute the applied load 346 without applying significant pressure on the user's head 102, thereby providing a more comfortable operating experience for the user.

[0069] In some examples, the rigid bumper 310 can be attached to the front surface 338 of the face engaging portion 308, wherein the rigid bumper 310 can be rated to withstand an applied load 346 within a second force range 228 that is higher than the first force range 226, such as Figure 2A . According to some examples, when the load 346 applied to the head mountable device 300 exceeds the first force range 226, the cushioning layer 344 can be fully compressed against the rigid buffer 310. When the cushioning layer 344 is fully compressed, the rigid buffer 310 can be configured to then provide a normal force opposing the applied load 346 at the end of the first force range 226. This can be advantageous for the user because the head mountable device 300 can be rated to withstand a significantly larger range of applied loads 346 while maintaining user comfort and overall structural integrity.

[0070] Figure 3A and Figure 3B Any of the features, components and / or parts shown (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 figures. Similarly, any of the features, components and / or parts shown in other figures (including their arrangements and configurations) may be included alone or in any combination in Figure 3A and Figure 3B Examples of devices, features, components, and portions are shown.

[0071] The following description discusses the interaction between the face engaging portion and a rigid bumper at least partially embedded in the face engaging portion, such as that just described with respect to FIG. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3BThe "parallel" joint-buffer configuration discussed above is the opposite of the "series" joint-buffer configuration. According to one or more examples of the present disclosure, FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C Additional example locations of rigid bumpers disposed in the head mountable device 400 are shown. In at least one example, the head mountable device 400 can include a face engaging portion 408. The face engaging portion 408 can include a front surface 438 and a rear surface 440 opposite the front surface 438, wherein the front surface 438 faces forward and the rear surface 440 faces backward. In some examples, the rear surface 440 can be configured to contact the user's face.

[0072] In addition, the rigid buffer 410 can be positioned between the display frame 404 and the face joint 408, wherein the front end 454 of the rigid buffer 410 can be attached to the back side 456 of the display frame 404. In at least one example, the rigid buffer 410 can also include an embedded portion 452, wherein the embedded portion 452 can be disposed inside the face joint 408. In at least one example, the embedded portion 452 can be configured to be shielded from an external view of the face joint 408. In at least one example, the embedded portion 452 can allow a portion of the face joint 408 to be positioned in front of the rear surface 442 of the rigid buffer 410. This configuration can position the rigid buffer 410 and the face joint 408 parallel to each other. This can be advantageous because the rigid buffer 410 and the face joint 408 can work simultaneously to distribute forces on the head mountable device 400.

[0073] In at least one example, a set of rigid buffers 410 can be attached to the display frame 404. Including additional rigid buffers 410 can enable the head mountable device 400 to maintain structural integrity over a larger surface area. In addition, the set of rigid buffers 410 can also include an embedding portion 452, wherein the embedding portion 452 can be disposed within the face interface 408. This can enable the face interface 408 to work in parallel with multiple rigid buffers 410 at the same time. This can be advantageous for the head mountable device 400 because the rigid buffers 410 can apply a normal force that opposes the applied force to a larger area of ​​the head mountable device 400. The increased surface coverage area for resisting the applied force can provide a more comfortable experience for the user because a larger amount of force can be distributed across the head mountable device 400.

[0074] In at least one example of the present disclosure, the width (i.e., thickness) of the facial joint 408 can vary over the length of the head-mounted device 400. The width of the facial joint 408 can be a set width, or a completely different width. For example, the width of the facial joint 408 can be increased in an area adjacent to the rigid buffer 410 and reduced in other areas. The different widths of the facial joint 408 can change the travel distance 448 of the cushion layer 444, thereby changing the amount of compression in the facial joint. Different widths can be advantageous for users with heads of different sizes, because some widths of the facial joint 408 may be comfortable for some users and may not be for other users. The different widths of the facial joint 408 can provide a comfortable operating experience for a variety of users with different head sizes. The different widths of the facial joint can also enable a tighter or looser fit on the user's head, which can help the head-mounted device 400 be located in a desired position during operation.

[0075] Figure 4B Further illustrated is the positioning of certain components when a force is applied to the head mountable device 400. In this example, an end surface 442 of the embedded portion 452 of the rigid bumper 410 may be disposed forward of the rear surface 440 of the face engaging portion 408. This configuration may enable the cushioning layer 444 to have a travel distance 448 when an applied load 446 is applied to the head mountable device 400, wherein the travel distance 448 may include a distance from the rear surface 440 of the face engaging portion 408 to the end surface 442 of the rigid bumper 410. In this example, when a force is applied to the head mountable device 400, the cushioning layer 444 may compress before the rigid bumper 410 bottoms out. This may enable the head mountable device 400 to absorb the low energy applied load 446 without bottoming out the rigid bumper 410, thereby providing a more comfortable experience for the user.

[0076] In some examples, the length of the face engaging portion 408 can also increase or decrease the amount of applied load 446 that can be absorbed within the first force range. For example, the longer the travel distance 448, the greater the applied force required to fully compress the cushion layer 444. Conversely, the shorter the travel distance 448, the less energy is required to apply the load 446 to fully compress the cushion layer 444. This can be advantageous for the head mountable device 400 because the amount of force that can be absorbed within the first force range 226 can be determined by the length of the face engaging portion 408.

[0077] Figure 4CThe positioning of certain components is shown when even greater forces are applied to the head mountable device 400. In this example, the applied load 446 can compress the cushioning layer 444 of the face engaging portion 408. In some examples, the face engaging portion 408 can compress even further after the rigid bumper 410 has bottomed out. Figure 4B Compression of cushion layer 444 is shown before the applied force is hard stopped by rigid bumper 410 . Figure 4C Further compression of the cushioning layer 444 in the peripheral region 445 is shown. In at least one example, the peripheral region 445 can be portions or surfaces of the face joint 408 that are not immediately adjacent to the end surface 442 of the rigid buffer 410. In addition, the peripheral region 445 can also be an area of ​​the cushioning layer 444 that is partially compressed (i.e., not compressed over the entire travel distance 448). This further compression of the peripheral region 445 can cause the face joint 408 and the rigid buffer 410 to further operate together to provide a discrete load response to the applied force 446. In this configuration, the rigid buffer 410 can provide a normal force opposite to the applied load 446 while the face joint 408 can be further compressed. This can be advantageous because the head mountable device 400 can use a combination of compression of the face joint 408 and a hard stop of the rigid buffer 410 to structurally handle higher force loads and also provide an improved and comfortable response.

[0078] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C Any of the features, components and / or parts shown (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 figures. Similarly, any of the features, components and / or parts shown in other figures (including their arrangements and configurations) may be included alone or in any combination in FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C The following description discusses force-deflection curves that graphically depict how exemplary implementations of face engaging portions and rigid bumpers react to applied forces.

[0079] The following description discusses the interaction between a rigid bumper and a face engaging portion, wherein an embedded portion of the rigid bumper may be positioned proximate a skin-facing or rear surface of the face engaging portion. FIG. 5A to FIG. 5B500 . Still another exemplary implementation of a rigid buffer according to one or more examples of the present disclosure is shown. In at least one example, the embedded portion 552 of the rigid buffer 510 can be positioned substantially flush with the rear surface 540 of the face engaging portion 508. In this example, the rigid buffer 510 can extend substantially the entire length of the face engaging portion 508. In some examples, this can reduce the overall compressibility of the face engaging portion 508, which in turn can enable the rigid buffer 510 to bottom out more quickly when a force is applied to the head mountable device 500.

[0080] In at least one example, the end surface 542 of the rigid buffer 510 may include a cover sheet 554. According to the present invention, the cover sheet 554 may be constructed of a variety of materials. In some examples, the cover sheet 554 may be constructed with a foam sheet, a fabric sheet, or other types of sheets to prevent or reduce direct contact between the user's skin and the rigid buffer 510. In some examples, the cover sheet 554 is constructed of a flexible material, a cushioning material, etc. In a specific implementation, the cover sheet 554 is a thin layer of the face-engaging portion 508. In examples where the rigid buffer 510 can be positioned approximately flush with the rear surface 540 of the face-engaging portion 508, the cover sheet 554 can be advantageous because it can be positioned between the user's skin and the rigid buffer 510. This can provide a more comfortable operating experience for the user because the user can make direct contact with the cover sheet 554 instead of the rigid buffer 510 (e.g., to avoid significantly different surface temperatures from contacting the user's skin).

[0081] In some examples, the rigid bumper 510 may include a set of rigid bumpers 510, each of which may be positioned substantially flush with the rear surface 540 of the face engaging portion 508. Additionally, each end surface 542 of a rigid bumper 510 in the set of rigid bumpers 510 may include a cover sheet 554.

[0082] In at least one example of the invention, the length of rigid buffer 510 can be a set length, or a completely different length. In some examples, the length of rigid buffer 510 can extend partially through face joint 508. In other examples, rigid buffer 510 can extend substantially the entire length of face joint 508. This can be advantageous for head mounted device 500 because users may have heads of different sizes. Different lengths of rigid buffer 510 may be comfortable for some users and may not be comfortable for other users. Different lengths of rigid buffer can provide a comfortable operating experience for a variety of users.

[0083] Figure 5B Shows Figure 5A, wherein an applied force is applied to the head mountable device 500. In at least one example, the rigid bumper 510 can be positioned substantially flush with the rear surface 540 of the face engaging portion 508. In this example, the stroke length 548 can be significantly shortened, wherein there is little compression between the rear surface 540 and the end surface 542 of the rigid bumper 510.

[0084] In at least one example, the face engaging portion 508 can compress in the localized compression zone 558, where the localized compression zone 558 is not occupied by the embedded portion 552 of the rigid bumper 510. This can enable the head mountable device 500 to apply a normal force opposite the applied force by using the rigid bumper 510, while absorbing more of the applied force by the localized compression zone 558. This can be advantageous to the user because when the applied force is applied to the head mountable device 500, the head mountable device 500 can immediately apply the normal force while also taking advantage of the compression from the face engaging portion 508 in the localized compression zone 558. This can enable the structural integrity of the entire device 500 to be increased while also maintaining user comfort.

[0085] Figure 5A and Figure 5B Any of the features, components and / or parts shown (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 figures. Similarly, any of the features, components and / or parts shown in other figures (including their arrangements and configurations) may be included alone or in any combination in Figure 5A and Figure 5B Examples of devices, features, components, and portions are shown.

[0086] The following description discusses the interaction between the rigid bumper and the energy dissipating layer. Figure 6 Yet another exemplary implementation of a rigid buffer with an energy dissipation layer according to one or more examples of the present disclosure is shown. In one example, the energy dissipation layer 660 can be positioned between the display frame 604 and the face joint 608. As used herein, the term "energy dissipation layer" refers to an area of ​​the head mountable device 600 that can be a type of energy management layer designed to further absorb and / or dissipate the energy of the applied force. In at least one example, the energy dissipation layer 660 can be designed to dissipate energy after utilizing the first force range 226, such as Figure 2B For example, the energy dissipation layer 660 can be designed to absorb and / or dissipate forces in a range of about 5N to about 1000N, about 10N to about 750N, or about 100N to about 500N.

[0087] In some examples, the energy dissipation layer 660 may include different structures and materials. In some examples, the energy dissipation layer 660 may include crushed areas, corrugated areas, grid areas, gel areas, or any other areas that can further distribute the applied force. In addition, in some examples, the energy dissipation layer 660 may be constructed of the same material as the face-engaging portion 608 or a completely different material. In some examples, the energy dissipation layer 660 may be constructed of a rigid material (such as fiber reinforced plastic) or a more flexible material (such as foam or fabric).

[0088] In this example, the energy dissipation layer 660 can be positioned forward of the front surface 638 of the face engaging portion 608 and behind the rear side 656 of the display frame 604. Additionally, a portion of each rigid bumper 610 can be embedded in the energy dissipation layer 660.

[0089] In at least one example, the energy dissipation layer 660 can be configured to dissipate the energy of the applied force after the cushion layer 644 of the face engaging portion 608 has been fully compressed. Adding the energy dissipation layer 660 can provide the head mountable device 600 with a third force range 232, where the third force range 232 can be reached before a normal force is applied from the rigid buffer 610. This can be advantageous because a greater force can be applied before the rigid buffer 610 applies a normal force that is opposite to the applied force. This can increase the comfort felt by the user because the applied force applied to the head mountable device 600 can be distributed over a larger area and a larger number of integrated components.

[0090] Figure 6 Any of the features, components and / or parts shown (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 figures. Similarly, any of the features, components and / or parts shown in other figures (including their arrangements and configurations) may be included alone or in any combination in Figure 6 Examples of devices, features, components, and portions are shown.

[0091] 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 the user. The present disclosure contemplates that in some instances, the 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] The disclosure anticipates that entities responsible for the collection, analysis, disclosure, transmission, storage or other uses of such personal information data will comply with sound privacy policies and / or privacy practices. Specifically, such entities should implement and adhere to the use of privacy policies and privacy practices that are recognized as meeting or exceeding 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 user's informed consent. 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 the privacy policies and procedures of other entities. In addition, such entities can subject themselves to third-party assessments to prove that they comply with widely accepted privacy policies and privacy 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 practices should be advocated for different types of personal data in each country.

[0094] 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 that hardware elements and / or software elements may be provided 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" at any time during or after registration for the service to participate in the collection of personal information data. 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 to 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 the user's 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.

[0095] In addition, it is the intention of the present disclosure that personal information data should be managed and processed in a manner that minimizes the risk of unintentional or unauthorized access or use. Once the data is no longer needed, the risk can be minimized by limiting the collection of data and deleting the data. In addition, and when applicable, including in certain health-related applications, data de-identification can be used to protect the privacy of users. De-identification can be facilitated 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 when appropriate.

[0096] 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 requiring 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.

[0097] 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 disclosed precise forms. 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: Display frame; an optical component, wherein the optical component is disposed in the display frame; facial joints; as well as A rigid bumper is connected to the display frame and positioned between the display frame and the face engaging portion, the rigid bumper defining a gap between the optical component and the face engaging portion.

2. The head mountable device of claim 1, wherein the face engaging portion comprises a compressible portion.

3. The head mountable device of claim 2, wherein the compressible portion is compressible prior to engagement with the rigid buffer.

4. The head mountable device of claim 1, wherein the rigid buffer comprises a force rating in excess of 20 Newtons. The head mountable device of claim 4 , wherein the force rating exceeds 1000 Newtons.

6. The head-mountable device according to claim 1, wherein the rigid buffer comprises an aluminum material, a fiber-reinforced plastic material, or an engineering plastic material.

7. The head mountable device of claim 1, wherein the rigid buffer is positionally fixed relative to the display frame and the face engaging portion.

8. The head mountable device of claim 1, wherein the rigid bumper includes a portion embedded within the face engaging portion.

9. A head mountable device according to claim 8, wherein the portion embedded within the face joint is obscured from an external view of the face joint.

10. The head mountable device according to claim 1, wherein: The face engaging portion includes a front surface opposite a skin-facing rear surface; and The rigid bumper includes an end surface attached to the front surface.

11. A wearable device comprising: Head-mounted display; a face engaging portion having a cushioning layer having a front surface facing the head mountable display, the cushioning layer being rated to withstand an applied load within a first force range; as well as A stop is connected to the head mountable display and the front surface, the stop being rated to withstand an applied load within a second force range that is higher than the first force range.

12. The wearable device of claim 11, wherein the stopper comprises an end surface connected to the front surface, the entire length of the stopper being positioned in series with the facial engagement portion.

13. The wearable device according to claim 11, wherein: the cushion layer includes a travel amount configured to bottom out against the stop at an end of the first force range; and At the end of the first force range, the stop is configured to provide a normal force opposing an applied load.

14. The wearable device of claim 11, wherein the stopper is removable from the front surface.

15. A wearable electronic device comprising: monitor; a face engaging portion having a front surface facing the display and a rear surface contacting the face when the wearable electronic device is worn; as well as a first structural post that, when worn, is attached to the head mountable display adjacent a forehead region of the face; as well as a second structural post that, when worn, is attached to the head mountable display adjacent a maxillary region of the face; Wherein a portion of each of the first structural column and the second structural column is embedded in the face engaging portion.

16. The wearable electronic device of claim 15, further comprising an energy dissipation layer located in front of the front surface of the facial joint, wherein a portion of each of the first structural column and the second structural column is embedded in the energy dissipation layer.

17. The wearable electronic device of claim 15, wherein an end portion of each of the first structural column and the second structural column is positioned in front of the rear surface.

18. The wearable electronic device of claim 15, wherein an end portion of each of the first structural column and the second structural column is positioned substantially flush with the rear surface.

19. The wearable electronic device of claim 18, wherein the end portion of the first structural column comprises a cover sheet.

20. The wearable electronic device according to claim 19, wherein the cover sheet comprises a foam sheet or a fabric sheet.

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