Film assembly for optics in virtual reality (VR) display devices

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a film assembly including a flexible film that seals an interior of a head-mounted display device from foreign objects and foreign materials. The head-mounted display device may be a virtual reality (VR) head-mounted display device. The film assembly may include a flexible film and bezels attached to the flexible film and configured to be attached to a frame and an optical module of the head-mounted display device. The flexible film is configured to extend around lenses respectively mounted in the optical modules. The optical modules may be configured to move in the frame to change an interpupillary distance (IPD) of the lenses. An inner surface of the flexible film includes offset surface portions configured to deform when the optical modules move, allowing the flexible film to deform without interfering with movement of the optical modules, while sealing an interior of the head-mounted display device.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 476,408, filed on December 21, 2022, entitled "Membrane Assembly for Optics in a Virtual Reality (VR) Display Device", which is currently pending, with Attorney Docket No. 3589-0173PV01. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a membrane assembly for an optical device in a head-mounted display device (e.g., a virtual reality (VR) display device), and a display device assembly including the membrane assembly. Background Art

[0003] Virtual reality (VR) display devices have become increasingly popular due to their ability to implement applications (e.g., gaming applications) that provide immersive interactive audio-visual experiences. For example, traditional VR display devices are configured to be fixed on a user's face to cover both eyes of the user, and include a pair of optical modules that include respective lenses configured to allow a stereoscopic image to pass through the lenses from the screen of the VR display device. The optical modules may be disposed within a frame in the internal space of a VR headset. To prevent the internal components of the VR display device from being contaminated, damaged, or otherwise functionally interfered with by foreign objects and foreign materials, it is important to provide a sealing member that surrounds the lenses and seals the interior of the VR display device.

[0004] In addition, in some VR display devices, the optical modules may be movable to move the lenses, thereby adjusting the interpupillary distance (IPD) of the lenses. In a VR display device including movable optical modules, it is important to seal the interior of the device to protect it from foreign objects and foreign materials while allowing the optical modules to move. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a film assembly for a head-mounted display device, the film assembly including a flexible film configured to be attached to a frame of the head-mounted display device, the flexible film including: a first lens opening configured to receive a first lens of the head-mounted display device; a second lens opening configured to receive a second lens of the head-mounted display device; a peripheral portion disposed around the first lens opening and the second lens opening; a central portion disposed between the first lens opening and the second lens opening; at least one first off-surface feature disposed around the first lens opening; and at least one second off-surface feature disposed around the second lens opening, wherein the at least one first off-surface feature is configured to change shape in response to a displacement of a first inner edge portion of the flexible film defining the first lens opening, and wherein the at least one second off-surface feature is configured to change shape in response to a displacement of a second inner edge portion of the flexible film defining the second lens opening.

[0006] Optionally, the film assembly further includes an outer frame attached to an outer edge portion of the flexible film and configured to be attached to the frame of the head-mounted display device.

[0007] Optionally, the outer frame is attached to the flexible film by snap fit or press fit.

[0008] Optionally, the outer frame is molded together with the flexible film.

[0009] Optionally, the outer frame is made of a material more rigid than the material constituting the flexible film.

[0010] Optionally, the outer frame includes a peripheral portion supporting the peripheral portion of the flexible film and a central portion supporting the central portion of the flexible film.

[0011] Optionally, the film assembly further includes: a first optical mounting frame attached to a first inner edge portion of the flexible film and configured to be attached to a first optical module including the first lens; and a second optical mounting frame attached to a second inner edge portion of the flexible film and configured to be attached to a second optical module including the second lens.

[0012] Optionally, the first optical mounting frame and the second optical mounting frame are attached to the flexible film by snap fit or press fit.

[0013] Optionally, the first optical frame and the second optical frame are molded together with the flexible film.

[0014] Optionally, the at least one first deviating surface feature includes a first recess provided on the inner surface of the flexible film opposite to the outer surface, in the peripheral portion, and extending around the first lens opening; and the at least one second deviating surface feature includes a second recess provided on the inner surface of the flexible film, in the peripheral portion, and extending around the second lens opening.

[0015] Optionally, the at least one first deviating surface feature further includes a first raised portion provided on the outer surface of the flexible film and corresponding to the first recess; and the at least one second deviating surface feature further includes a second raised portion provided on the outer surface of the flexible film and corresponding to the second recess.

[0016] Optionally, the membrane assembly further includes a third concave depression provided on the inner surface of the flexible film in the central portion and configured to receive a user's nose.

[0017] Optionally, the at least one first deviating surface feature further includes a first protruding pleat provided on the inner surface of the flexible film between the first lens opening and the central portion; and the at least one second deviating surface feature further includes a second protruding pleat provided on the inner surface of the flexible film between the second lens opening and the central portion.

[0018] Optionally, the at least one first deviating surface feature further includes a first recessed pleat provided on the outer surface of the flexible film and corresponding to the first protruding pleat; and the at least one second deviating surface feature further includes a second recessed pleat provided on the outer surface of the flexible film and corresponding to the second protruding pleat.

[0019] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a component for a head-mounted display device, the component comprising: a frame configured to be disposed in a housing of the head-mounted display device; a first optical module including a first lens and configured to be mounted to the frame; a second optical module including a second lens and configured to be mounted to the frame; and a flexible film configured to be attached to the frame and including a first lens opening configured to receive the first lens, a second lens opening configured to receive the second lens, at least one first off-surface feature disposed around the first lens opening, and at least one second off-surface feature disposed around the second lens opening, wherein the first optical module and the second optical module are configured to move to change the pupil distance between the first lens and the second lens, wherein the at least one first off-surface feature is configured to change shape in response to movement of the first optical module to change the pupil distance, and wherein the at least one second off-surface feature is configured to change shape in response to movement of the second optical module to change the pupil distance.

[0020] Optionally, the frame includes: a body configured to be attached to the housing; a first inner ring disposed in a space within the body; and a second inner ring disposed in the space within the body and spaced apart from the first inner ring. The first optical module and the second optical module are configured to be respectively mounted in the first inner ring and the second inner ring; and the flexible film further includes: an outer border attached to an outer edge portion of the flexible film and configured to be attached to the body of the frame; a first optical mounting border attached to a first inner edge portion of the flexible film defining the first lens opening and configured to be attached to the first optical module; and a second optical mounting border attached to a second inner edge portion of the flexible film defining the second lens opening and configured to be attached to the second optical module.

[0021] Optionally, the at least one first off-surface feature includes a first recess disposed on an inner surface of the flexible film in a peripheral portion of the flexible film and extending around the first lens opening; and the at least one second off-surface feature includes a second recess disposed on the inner surface of the flexible film in the peripheral portion and extending around the second lens opening.

[0022] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a head-mounted display device, the head-mounted display device comprising: a first optical module and a second optical module, the first optical module and the second optical module being mounted to a frame and comprising a first lens and a second lens; and a flexible film, the flexible film comprising a first lens opening for receiving the first lens, a second lens opening for receiving the second lens, at least one first off-surface feature disposed around the first lens opening, and at least one second off-surface feature disposed around the second lens opening, wherein the first optical module and the second optical module are configured to move to change the interpupillary distance between the first lens and the second lens, wherein the at least one first off-surface feature is configured to change shape in response to movement of the first optical module to change the interpupillary distance, and wherein the at least one second off-surface feature is configured to change shape in response to movement of the second optical module to change the interpupillary distance.

[0023] Optionally, the at least one first off-surface feature comprises a first recess, the first recess being disposed on the inner surface of the flexible film in a peripheral portion of the flexible film and extending around the first lens opening; and the at least one second off-surface feature comprises a second recess, the second recess being disposed on the inner surface of the flexible film in the peripheral portion and extending around the second lens opening.

[0024] Optionally, the at least one first off-surface feature comprises a first protruding fold, the first protruding fold being disposed on the inner surface of the flexible film between the first lens opening and a central portion of the flexible film; and the at least one second off-surface feature comprises a second protruding fold, the second protruding fold being disposed on the inner surface of the flexible film between the second lens opening and the central portion of the flexible film.

[0025] Certain embodiments of the present invention will be described by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Brief Description of the Drawings

[0026] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a head-mounted display device according to an embodiment, the head-mounted display device comprising a film assembly, a first optical module and a second optical module attached to a frame;

[0027] Figure 2A and Figure 2B are perspective views and top views respectively showing Figure 1 the frame, the first optical module and the second optical module, wherein the first optical module and the second optical module are in positions corresponding to a first interpupillary distance (IPD);

[0028] Figure 3A and Figure 3BStereoscopic views and top views respectively showing the frame, the first optical module, and the second optical module of FIG. 2, wherein the first optical module and the second optical module are in positions corresponding to the second IPD;

[0029] Figure 4 To show Figure 1 Stereoscopic view of the membrane assembly of;

[0030] Figure 5A To show Figure 1 Another stereoscopic view of the membrane assembly of;

[0031] Figure 5B Is Figure 1 Exploded stereoscopic view of the membrane assembly of;

[0032] Figure 6A And Figure 6B And are stereoscopic views showing a flexible film according to an embodiment; and

[0033] Figure 7 Is a stereoscopic view of a head-mounted display device according to an embodiment.

[0034] By referring to the following detailed description and in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, the various features and aspects described herein can be better understood, wherein the same reference numerals represent the same elements or elements that are functionally similar. The drawings may not be drawn to scale, and for clarity, illustration, and convenience, the relative sizes, proportions, and descriptions of the elements in the drawings may be exaggerated. Detailed Description

[0035] Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a membrane assembly that includes a flexible film configured to seal the interior of a head-mounted display device from foreign objects and foreign materials. For example, the head-mounted display device can be a virtual reality (VR) display device. The membrane assembly can include a flexible film and a border attached to the flexible film and configured to be attached to the frame and optical module of the head-mounted display device. The flexible film is configured to extend around lenses respectively mounted in the optical modules. The optical modules can be configured to move within the frame to change the interpupillary distance (IPD) of the lenses. The inner surface of the flexible film includes surface deviations configured to deform when the optical modules move, thereby allowing the flexible film to deform without hindering the movement of the optical modules while sealing the interior of the head-mounted display device.

[0036] Other aspects of the present invention relate to a head-mounted display device assembly that includes a membrane assembly, a frame, and an optical module.

[0037] According to an embodiment described herein, a film assembly for a head-mounted display device may include a flexible film configured to be attached to a frame of the head-mounted display device. The flexible film may include: a first lens opening configured to receive a first lens of the head-mounted display device; a second lens opening configured to receive a second lens of the head-mounted display device; a peripheral portion disposed around the first lens opening and the second lens opening; a central portion disposed between the first lens opening and the second lens opening; at least one first off-surface feature disposed around the first lens opening; and at least one second off-surface feature disposed around the second lens opening. The at least one first off-surface feature may be configured to change shape in response to a shift of a first inner edge portion of the flexible film that defines the first lens opening. The at least one second off-surface feature may be configured to change shape in response to a shift of a second inner edge portion of the flexible film that defines the second lens opening.

[0038] In some embodiments, the film assembly may further include an outer border attached to an outer edge portion of the flexible film and configured to be attached to the frame of the head-mounted display device.

[0039] In some embodiments, the outer border may be attached to the flexible film by snap fit or press fit.

[0040] In some embodiments, the outer border may be molded together with the flexible film.

[0041] In some embodiments, the outer border may be made of a material that is more rigid than the material that makes up the flexible film.

[0042] In some embodiments, the outer border may include a peripheral portion that supports the peripheral portion of the flexible film and a central portion that supports the central portion of the flexible film.

[0043] In some embodiments, the film assembly may further include: a first optical mounting border attached to a first inner edge portion of the flexible film and configured to be attached to a first optical module including the first lens; and a second optical mounting border attached to a second inner edge portion of the flexible film and configured to be attached to a second optical module including the second lens.

[0044] In some embodiments, the first optical mounting border and the second optical mounting border are attached to the flexible film by snap fit or press fit.

[0045] In some embodiments, the first optical frame and the second optical frame may be molded together with the flexible film.

[0046] In some embodiments, the at least one first off-surface feature may include a first recess disposed on the inner surface of the flexible film in the peripheral portion and extending around the first lens opening. The at least one second off-surface feature includes a second recess disposed on the inner surface of the flexible film in the peripheral portion and extending around the second lens opening.

[0047] In some embodiments, the at least one first off-surface feature may further include a first raised portion disposed on the outer surface of the flexible film and corresponding to the first recess. The at least one second off-surface feature may further include a second raised portion disposed on the outer surface of the flexible film and corresponding to the second recess.

[0048] In some embodiments, the membrane assembly may further include a third concave recess disposed on the inner surface of the flexible film in the central portion and configured to receive a user's nose.

[0049] In some embodiments, the at least one first off-surface feature may further include a first protruding fold disposed on the inner surface of the flexible film between the first lens opening and the central portion. The at least one second off-surface feature may further include a second protruding fold disposed on the inner surface of the flexible film between the second lens opening and the central portion.

[0050] In some embodiments, the at least one first off-surface feature may further include a first recessed fold disposed on the outer surface of the flexible film and corresponding to the first protruding fold. The at least one second off-surface feature may further include a second recessed fold disposed on the outer surface of the flexible film and corresponding to the second protruding fold.

[0051] According to embodiments described herein, a component for a head-mounted display device may include: a frame configured to be disposed within a housing of the head-mounted display device; a first optical module including a first lens and configured to be mounted to the frame; a second optical module including a second lens and configured to be mounted to the frame; and a flexible film configured to be attached to the frame. The flexible film may include: a first lens opening configured to receive the first lens; a second lens opening configured to receive the second lens; at least one first off-surface feature disposed around the first lens opening; and at least one second off-surface feature disposed around the second lens opening. The first optical module and the second optical module may be configured to move to change an inter-pupillary distance between the first lens and the second lens. The at least one first off-surface feature may be configured to change shape in response to movement of the first optical module to change the inter-pupillary distance. The at least one second off-surface feature may be configured to change shape in response to movement of the second optical module to change the inter-pupillary distance.

[0052] In some embodiments, the frame may include: a body configured to be attached to the housing; a first inner ring disposed within a space in the body; and a second inner ring disposed within the space in the body and spaced apart from the first inner ring. The first optical module and the second optical module may be configured to be mounted in the first inner ring and the second inner ring, respectively. The flexible film may further include: an outer border attached to an outer edge portion of the flexible film and configured to be attached to the body of the frame; a first optical mounting border attached to a first inner edge portion of the flexible film defining the first lens opening and configured to be attached to the first optical module; and a second optical mounting border attached to a second inner edge portion of the flexible film defining the second lens opening and configured to be attached to the second optical module.

[0053] In some embodiments, the at least one first off-surface feature may include a first recess disposed on an inner surface of the flexible film in a peripheral portion of the flexible film and extending around the first lens opening. The at least one second off-surface feature may include a second recess disposed on the inner surface of the flexible film in the peripheral portion and extending around the second lens opening.

[0054] In some embodiments, the at least one first off-surface feature may further include a first protruding fold, which is disposed on the inner surface of the flexible film between the first lens opening and the central portion of the flexible film. The at least one second off-surface feature may further include a second protruding fold, which is disposed on the inner surface of the flexible film between the second lens opening and the central portion of the flexible film.

[0055] According to embodiments described herein, a head-mounted display device may include: a housing; a frame disposed in the housing; a first optical module mounted to the frame and including a first lens; a second optical module mounted to the frame and including a second lens; and a flexible film attached to the frame. The flexible film may include: a first lens opening for receiving the first lens, a second lens opening for receiving the second lens, at least one first off-surface feature disposed around the first lens opening, and at least one second off-surface feature disposed around the second lens opening. The first optical module and the second optical module may be configured to move to change the interpupillary distance between the first lens and the second lens. The at least one first off-surface feature may be configured to change shape in response to movement of the first optical module to change the interpupillary distance. The at least one second off-surface feature may be configured to change shape in response to movement of the second optical module to change the interpupillary distance.

[0056] In some embodiments, the at least one first off-surface feature may include a first recess, which is disposed on the inner surface of the flexible film in a peripheral portion of the flexible film and extends around the first lens opening. The at least one second off-surface feature may include a second recess, which is disposed on the inner surface of the flexible film in the peripheral portion and extends around the second lens opening.

[0057] In some embodiments, the at least one first off-surface feature may further include a first protruding fold, which is disposed on the inner surface of the flexible film between the first lens opening and the central portion of the flexible film. The at least one second off-surface feature may further include a second protruding fold, which is disposed on the inner surface of the flexible film between the second lens opening and the central portion of the flexible film.

[0058] Several embodiments are discussed in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0059] Figure 1Is a perspective view of a display device assembly 10 for a head-mounted display device. The display device assembly 10 includes the internal structure and functional components of the head-mounted display device. For example, the display device assembly 10 can be a virtual reality (VR) display device assembly for a head-mounted VR display device that is configured to be fixed to a user's face and cover the user's eyes.

[0060] Reference Figure 1 , the display device assembly 10 includes a film assembly 100, a frame 200, a first (e.g., left) optical module 300, and a second (e.g., right) optical module 400. The display device assembly 10 can be inserted and connected to the housing or shell of the head-mounted display device, such as Figure 7 the housing 602 of the head-mounted display device 600 shown in

[0061] The first optical module 300 includes a first (e.g., left) lens 320, and the second optical module 400 includes a second (e.g., right) lens 420. The first lens 320 is configured to allow a first (e.g., left) image to pass through it from the screen of the head-mounted display device, and the second lens 420 is configured to allow a second (e.g., right) image to pass through it from the screen of the head-mounted display device. For example, the first lens 320 and the second lens 420 can be stereoscopic lenses configured to present a stereoscopic image to the user.

[0062] Figure 2A and Figure 2B are perspective and top views, respectively, showing the frame 200 and the optical modules 300 and 400, where the first optical module 300 and the second optical module 400 are in positions corresponding to a first interpupillary distance (IPD) between the first lens 320 and the second lens 420. More specifically, Figure 2A and Figure 2B show the inner sides of the frame 200 and the optical modules 300 and 400, which face the user's face when the head-mounted display device is fixed to the user's face.

[0063] As Figure 2A and Figure 2B shown, the frame 200 includes a body or outer ring 210, a first (e.g., left) inner ring 220, and a second (e.g., right) inner ring 240. The outer ring 210 is configured to be attached to the housing or shell of the head-mounted display device and includes a peripheral portion 212 and a central portion 216. In some embodiments, the peripheral portion 212 can have an oval shape as shown. However, in other embodiments, the peripheral portion 212 can have a rectangular shape. The central portion 216 extends between opposite portions of the peripheral portion 212 in the central region of the outer ring 210 and generally corresponds to the position of the user's nose when the head-mounted display device is fixed to the user's face.

[0064] The first inner ring 220 and the second inner ring 240 have an annular shape and are disposed in the inner space 201 within the outer ring 210, which is the inner space of the display device assembly 10 and the head-mounted display device when the frame 200 is installed in the head-mounted display device. As Figure 2A and Figure 2B shown, the first inner frame 220 is disposed on the first side (e.g., the left side) of the inner space 201, between the peripheral portion 212 and the central portion 216 of the outer ring 210. The second optical module frame 220 is disposed on the second side (e.g., the right side) of the inner space 201, between the peripheral portion 212 and the central portion 216 of the outer ring 210.

[0065] The first optical module 300 and the second optical module 400 are respectively installed in the first inner frame 220 and the second inner frame 240. As described above, in Figure 2A and Figure 2B , the first inner frame 220 and the second inner frame 240 are positioned such that there is a first IPD between the first lens 320 and the second lens 420. In some embodiments, in order to optimize image viewing for individual users, the first inner frame 220 and the second inner frame 240 may be movably installed such that they are movable to change the IPD. More specifically, in such embodiments, the first inner frame 220 and the second inner frame 240 may be moved to respectively move the first optical module 300 and the second optical module 400, thereby changing the IPD. For example, Figure 2A and Figure 2B shown, the first IPD may be the minimum IPD, and the first optical module 300 and the second optical module 400 may be moved to various positions between the position corresponding to the first IPD and the position corresponding to Figure 3A and Figure 3B shown, the maximum second IPD. In some embodiments, the IPD may be adjusted within a range of 58 mm to 72 mm.

[0066] Figure 4 FIG. shows a perspective view of the film assembly 100. Figure 5A FIG. shows another perspective view of the display film assembly 100. Figure 5B FIG. is an exploded perspective view of the film assembly 100. In Figure 4 's view, the inner side of the film assembly 100 is shown, which is configured to face the user's face. In Figure 5A and Figure 5B 's view, the outer side of the film assembly 100 is shown, which is configured to face the frame 200.

[0067] Referring to Figure 4 , Figure 5A and Figure 5B, the membrane component 100 includes an outer frame 110, a first optical mounting frame 120, a second optical mounting frame 140, and a flexible membrane 160. The outer frame 110, the first optical mounting frame 120, and the second optical mounting frame 140 are formed of a rigid material (e.g., polycarbonate or a similar rigid material). The flexible membrane 160 is formed of a thin flexible molding material (e.g., silicone or another elastomer, such as but not limited to rubber). In some embodiments, the outer frame 110 and the flexible membrane 160 each have shapes corresponding to each other and to the shape of the outer ring 210.

[0068] For example, the flexible membrane 160 includes a peripheral portion 162 forming an inclined outer wall and a central portion 166 extending between opposite sides of the peripheral portion 162. The flexible membrane 160 further includes a first (e.g., left) lens opening 167 and a second (e.g., right) lens opening 168 defined between the peripheral portion 162 and the central portion 166. The first lens opening 167 is configured to surround an edge portion of the first lens 320, and the second lens opening 168 is configured to surround an edge portion of the second lens 420, such that the first lens 320 and the second lens 420 are exposed to the user's binocular eyes through the first lens opening 167 and the second lens opening 168. The central portion 166 of the flexible membrane 160 is configured to accommodate the user's nose. The peripheral portion 162 and the central portion 166 of the flexible membrane 160 are configured to surround the user's binocular eyes, the first optical module 300, and the second optical module 400.

[0069] Such as Figure 4As shown, the flexible film 160 has a shaped inner surface 160a, and the shaped inner surface 160a includes off-surface features that are configured to adapt to the user's face, the first optical module 300, and the second optical module 400, and enable the flexible film to deform when the first optical module 300 and the second optical module 400 move to adjust the IPD. More specifically, in the regions between the first lens opening 167 and the second lens opening 168 and the outer edge portion 161 of the flexible film 160, a first recess (e.g., a concave recess) 172 and a second recess (e.g., a concave recess) 174 are respectively provided on the inner surface 160a around the first lens opening 167 and the second lens opening 168. The first recess 172 may be semi-circular and is provided in the peripheral portion 162, between the outer edge portion 161 of the flexible film 160 and the first annular wall 182 of the protrusion surrounding the first lens opening 167. The second recess 174 may be semi-circular and is provided in the peripheral portion 162, between the outer edge portion 161 of the flexible film 160 and the second annular wall 184 of the protrusion surrounding the second lens opening 168. A third recess 176 is provided on the inner surface 160a in the central portion 166 of the flexible film 160. The third recess 176 is configured to adapt to the user's nose, the first annular wall 182 is configured to extend around the first optical module 300, and the second annular wall 184 is configured to extend around the second optical module 400.

[0070] As Figure 5B shown, the flexible film 160 has a shaped outer surface 160b, and the shaped outer surface 160b includes a contoured feature or an off-surface feature corresponding to the sculpted feature of the inner surface 160a. More specifically, in the regions respectively corresponding to the regions of the first recess 172 and the second recess 174 of the inner surface 160a, a first raised portion 173 and a second raised portion 175 are respectively provided on the outer surface 160b around the first lens opening 167 and the second lens opening 168. In the region corresponding to the region of the third recess 176 on the inner surface 160a, a third raised portion 177 is provided on the outer surface 160b in the central portion 166 of the flexible film 160.

[0071] Referring Figure 4 、 Figure 5A and Figure 5B , the outer frame 110 includes a peripheral portion 112 and a central portion 116 extending between opposite sides of the peripheral portion 112. The peripheral portion 112 of the outer frame 110 corresponds to the peripheral portion 162 of the flexible film 160, and the central portion 116 of the outer frame 110 corresponds to the central portion 166 of the flexible film 160. As Figure 5B 、 Figure 2A and Figure 2BAs shown, the outer frame 110 includes a plurality of protrusions 113 on the peripheral portion 112 and a protrusion 117 on the central portion 116. The protrusions 113 are configured to engage corresponding retaining members 213 on the peripheral portion 212 of the outer ring 210, and the protrusion 117 is configured to engage the retaining member 217 on the central portion 216 of the outer ring 210.

[0072] In some embodiments, the shape of the first optical mounting frame 120 corresponds to the boundary of the first lens opening 167, and the shape of the second optical mounting frame 140 corresponds to the boundary of the second lens opening 168. The first optical mounting frame 120 and the second optical mounting frame 140 each have a protrusion 122 and a protrusion 142. The protrusion 122 is configured to engage the first optical module 300, and the protrusion 142 is configured to engage the second optical module 400.

[0073] Figure 4 and Figure 5A The film assembly 100 is shown in an assembled state, in which the flexible film 160 is attached to the outer frame 110, the first optical mounting frame 120, and the second optical mounting frame 140. As Figure 4 and Figure 5A shown, when the film assembly 100 is in the assembled state, the outer frame 110, the first optical mounting frame 120, and the second optical mounting frame 140 are disposed on the second surface 160b of the flexible film 160. The outer edge portion 161 of the flexible film 160 is fixed to the outer edge portion 111 of the outer frame 110 such that the peripheral portion 112 of the outer frame 110 supports the peripheral portion 162 of the flexible film 160. The central portion 166 of the flexible film 160 is fixed to the central portion 116 of the outer frame 110 by the protrusion 119 of the central portion 116 of the outer frame 110, and the protrusion 119 is inserted into the hole 169 in the central portion 166 of the flexible film 160. In addition, the film assembly 100 is in the assembled state, and the first optical mounting frame 120 and the second optical mounting frame 140 are respectively fixed to the first inner edge portion 163 and the second inner edge portion 164 of the flexible film 160 surrounding the first lens opening 167 and the second lens opening 168.

[0074] The outer frame 110, the first optical mounting frame 120, the second optical mounting frame 140, and the flexible film 160 can be assembled together in a variety of ways. For example, in some embodiments, the outer frame 110, the first optical mounting frame 120, and the second optical mounting frame 140 can be insert-molded with the flexible film 160 (e.g., in an injection molding tool or a compression molding tool). In some embodiments, the outer frame 110, the first optical mounting frame 120, and the second optical mounting frame 140 can be two-shot molded with the flexible film 160. In some embodiments, the outer frame 110, the first optical mounting frame 120, and the second optical mounting frame 140 can be attached to the flexible film 160 with an adhesive after each of these parts is molded. Additionally, in some embodiments, the outer frame 110, the first optical mounting frame 120, and the second optical mounting frame 140 can be clamped or otherwise fixed in place on the flexible film 160 by snap fit, press fit, or fasteners after each of these parts is molded. When the outer frame 110, the first optical mounting frame 120, the second optical mounting frame 140, and the flexible film 160 are assembled together in any of the above ways, the resulting film assembly 100 includes the flexible film 160 having rigid substrate features (e.g., the outer frame 110, the first optical mounting frame 120, the second optical mounting frame 140), and these rigid substrate features allow the film assembly 100 to be assembled to a head-mounted display device.

[0075] Referring again to Figure 1 , when the film assembly 100 is assembled with the frame 200, the first optical module 300, and the second optical module 400, the outer frame 110 can be fixed to the outer ring 210 by a snap fit provided by the engagement of the protrusions 113 and 117 of the outer frame 110 with the retaining members 213 and 217 of the outer ring 210, respectively. Additionally, the first optical mounting frame 120 and the second optical mounting frame 140 can be fixed to the first optical module 300 and the second optical module 400 by a snap fit provided by the engagement of the protrusions 122 of the first optical mounting frame 120 and the protrusions 142 of the second optical mounting frame 140 with the first optical module 300 and the second optical module 400, respectively.

[0076] The flexibility of the material forming the flexible membrane 160 and the excess material provided by the first recess 172, the second recess 174, and the third recess 178, as well as the corresponding first raised portion 173, the second raised portion 175, and the third raised portion 177, enable the flexible membrane 160 to deform while maintaining a secure attachment to the outer ring 210, the first optical module 300, and the second optical module 400. That is, when the first optical module 300 and the second optical module 400 move to change the IPD, the inner edge portions 163 and 164 of the flexible membrane 160 shift, and in response, the first recess 172, the second recess 174, and the third recess 178, as well as the corresponding first raised portion 173, the second raised portion 175, and the third raised portion 177, change shape to accommodate the movement of the first optical module 300 and the second optical module 400. Thus, when adjusting the IPD, the flexible membrane 160 seals the internal space 201 without restricting the movement of the first optical module 300 and the second optical module 400.

[0077] To reduce the appearance of wrinkles in the optical modules 300 and 400 at extreme IPD settings, the flexible membrane 160 can have a textured surface. Additionally, a coating can be applied to the inner surface 160a of the flexible membrane 160 to provide improved comfort for the user's facial portion that contacts the inner surface 160a.

[0078] Figure 6A and Figure 6B FIG. shows a perspective view of a flexible membrane 560 according to an embodiment. The flexible membrane 560 can be used to replace the flexible membrane 160. The flexible membrane 560 is similar to the flexible membrane 160, except that the inner surface 560a of the flexible membrane 560 has deviated surface features different from those of the inner surface 160a of the flexible membrane 160, and the outer surface 560b of the flexible membrane 560 has deviated surface features different from those of the outer surface 160b of the flexible membrane 160.

[0079] As Figure 6A shown, in the regions between the first lens opening 167 and the second lens opening 168 and the outer edge portion 561 of the flexible membrane 560, a first recess (e.g., a recessed channel) 570 and a second recess (e.g., a recessed channel) 576 are provided on the inner surface 560a respectively around the first lens opening 567 and the second lens opening 568. The first recess 570 can be semi-circular and is provided in the peripheral portion 562, between the outer edge portion 561 of the flexible membrane 560 and the first annular wall 582 of the protrusion surrounding the first lens opening 567. The second recess 576 can be semi-circular and is provided in the peripheral portion 562, between the outer edge portion 561 of the flexible membrane 160 and the second annular wall 584 of the protrusion surrounding the second lens opening 568.

[0080] The third recess 578 is formed on the inner surface 560a in the central portion 566 of the flexible film 560. A first protruding fold or bellows (e.g., a convex folding portion) 572 is provided on the inner surface 560a, between the third recess 578 and the first annular wall 582 of the protrusion surrounding the first lens opening 567, and a second protruding fold or bellows 574 is provided on the inner surface 560a, between the third recess 578 and the second annular wall 584 of the protrusion surrounding the second lens opening 568. The first recess 570 and the second recess 576 transition to the first fold 572 and the second fold 574 respectively in regions adjacent to the central portion 566.

[0081] As Figure 6B shown, a raised portion 577 is formed on the outer surface 560b in the central portion 566 of the flexible film 560. In a region corresponding to the region where the first protruding fold 572 is provided, a first recessed fold or bellows (e.g., a concave folding portion) 573 is provided on the outer surface 560b between the raised portion 577 and the annular wall 582 surrounding the first lens opening 567. In a region corresponding to the region where the second protruding fold 574 is provided, a second recessed fold or bellows 575 is provided on the outer surface 560b between the raised portion 577 and the annular wall 584 surrounding the second lens opening 568.

[0082] The first recess 570 and the second recess 576 provided on the inner surface 560a, the first fold 572 and the second fold 574 provided on the inner surface 560a, and the first fold 573 and the second fold 575 provided on the outer surface 560b are configured to deform when the first optical module 300 and the second optical module 400 move and shift to respectively define the inner edge portions 563 and 564 of the first lens opening 567 and the second lens opening 568. In addition to enabling the flexible film 560 to deform without inhibiting the movement of the first optical module 300 and the second optical module 400, these folds 572, 573, 574, and 575 also reduce the formation of unsightly wrinkles on the inner surface 560a.

[0083] According to the embodiments described herein, the membrane assembly effectively seals the internal space of the head-mounted display device to prevent foreign objects and foreign substances from entering the internal space and thus damaging or negatively affecting the performance of the optical components of the head-mounted display device. Additionally, the flexible film of the membrane assembly includes offset surface portions that are configured to deform when the optical modules of the head-mounted display device are moved to adjust the IPD of the lenses in the optical modules, such that the membrane assembly is deformable and does not impede the movement of the optical modules. Furthermore, the flexible film provides a comfortable surface for contacting the user's face during operation of the head-mounted display device.

[0084] References to "an embodiment" (e.g., "some embodiments", "various embodiments", "one embodiment", "an embodiment", etc.) in this specification mean that the particular features, structures, or characteristics described in connection with the embodiment are included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. These phrases that appear in different places in the specification do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment, nor are they necessarily separate or alternative embodiments that are mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Additionally, various features are described that may be exhibited by some embodiments but not by others. Similarly, various requirements are described that may be of some embodiments but not of others.

[0085] As used herein, the word "or" refers to any possible permutation of a set of items. For example, the phrase "A, B, or C" refers to at least one of A, B, C, or any combination thereof, such as any one of the following: A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and C; A, B, and C; or any multiple of the items, such as A and A; B, B, and C; A, A, B, C, and C; and so on.

[0086] Throughout the specification, when an element such as a layer, region, or substrate is described as "on another element", "connected to" another element, or "coupled to" another element, the element can be directly "on the other element", "connected to" the other element, or "coupled to" the other element, or there can be one or more other elements between them. In contrast, when an element is described as "directly on another element", "directly connected to" another element, or "directly coupled to" another element, there can be no other elements between them.

[0087] Although terms such as "first", "second", and "third" may be used herein to describe various components, parts, regions, layers, and / or sections, these components, parts, regions, layers, and / or sections are not limited by these terms. Rather, these terms are only used to distinguish one component, one part, one region, one layer, and / or one section from another component, another part, another region, another layer, or another section. Thus, without departing from the teachings of the examples, the first component, the first part, the first region, the first layer, or the first section referred to in the examples described herein can also be referred to as the second component, the second part, the second region, the second layer, or the second section.

[0088] For ease of description, this document may use spatial relative terms such as "above", "upper", "below", and "lower" to describe the relationship between one element and another shown in the drawings. In addition to the orientation described in the drawings, such spatial relative terms are intended to also cover different orientations of the device during use or operation. For example, if the device in the figure is flipped, an element described as "above" or "upper" relative to another element will be located "below" or "lower" relative to that other element. Thus, the term "above" covers both the above and below orientations, depending on the spatial orientation of the device. The device may also be oriented in other ways (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative terms used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

[0089] The terms used herein are only for describing various examples and are not intended to limit the disclosure. The singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are intended to also include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "comprising" and "having" specify the presence of the stated features, quantities, operations, components, elements, and / or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, quantities, operations, components, elements, and / or combinations thereof.

[0090] Due to manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances, the shapes shown in the drawings may vary. Thus, the examples described herein are not limited to the specific shapes shown in the drawings but include shape variations that occur during manufacturing.

[0091] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and / or method acts, it should be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the above specific features or acts. For purposes of illustration, specific embodiments have been described herein, but various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the embodiments. The above specific features and acts are disclosed as example forms for implementing the appended claims. Thus, the present embodiment is not limited except as restricted by the appended claims.

[0092] Any patents, patent applications, and other references mentioned above are incorporated herein by reference. If necessary, various aspects may be modified to adopt the systems, functions, and concepts of the above various references to provide further embodiments. If the statements or subject matters in the documents incorporated by reference conflict with the statements or subject matters of the present application, the present application shall prevail.

Claims

1. A film assembly for a head-mounted display device, the film assembly comprising: A flexible film configured to be attached to a frame of the head-mounted display device, the flexible film comprising: A first lens opening configured to receive a first lens of the head-mounted display device, A second lens opening configured to receive a second lens of the head-mounted display device, A peripheral portion surrounding the first lens opening and the second lens opening, A central portion disposed between the first lens opening and the second lens opening, At least one first off-surface feature disposed around the first lens opening, and At least one second off-surface feature disposed around the second lens opening, wherein the at least one first off-surface feature is configured to change shape in response to a shift of a first inner edge portion of the flexible film defining the first lens opening, and Wherein the at least one second off-surface feature is configured to change shape in response to a shift of a second inner edge portion of the flexible film defining the second lens opening.

2. The film assembly according to claim 1, the film assembly further comprising: An outer frame attached to an outer edge portion of the flexible film and configured to be attached to the frame of the head-mounted display device.

3. The film assembly according to claim 2, wherein, The outer frame is attached to the flexible film by snap fit or press fit.

4. The film assembly according to claim 2, wherein, The outer frame is molded together with the flexible film.

5. The film assembly according to claim 2, wherein, The outer frame is made of a material more rigid than the material constituting the flexible film.

6. The film assembly according to claim 2, wherein, The outer frame includes a peripheral portion supporting the peripheral portion of the flexible film and a central portion supporting the central portion of the flexible film.

7. The film assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, the film assembly further comprising: A first optical mounting frame attached to the first inner edge portion of the flexible film and configured to be attached to a first optical module including the first lens; And A second optical mounting frame attached to the second inner edge portion of the flexible film and configured to be attached to a second optical module including the second lens.

8. The film assembly according to claim 7, wherein, The first optical mounting frame and the second optical mounting frame are attached to the flexible film by snap fit or press fit.

9. The film assembly according to claim 7, wherein, The first optical frame and the second optical frame are molded together with the flexible film.

10. The film assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The at least one first off-surface feature includes a first recess disposed on an inner surface of the flexible film opposite to the outer surface in the peripheral portion and extending around the first lens opening; And The at least one second off-surface feature includes a second recess disposed on the inner surface of the flexible film in the peripheral portion and extending around the second lens opening.

11. For the film assembly according to claim 10, any one or more of the following exist: a) wherein: The at least one first off-surface feature further includes a first raised portion disposed on the outer surface of the flexible film and corresponding to the first recess; and The at least one second off-surface feature further includes a second raised portion disposed on the outer surface of the flexible film and corresponding to the second recess; Or b) The membrane assembly further includes a third concave recess, the third concave recess being provided on the inner surface of the flexible membrane in the central portion and configured to receive a user's nose; Or c) Wherein: the at least one first deviating surface feature further includes a first protruding fold, the first protruding fold being provided on the inner surface of the flexible membrane between the first lens opening and the central portion; and The at least one second deviating surface feature further includes a second protruding fold, the second protruding fold being provided on the inner surface of the flexible membrane between the second lens opening and the central portion. In this case, optionally, wherein: the at least one first deviating surface feature further includes a first recessed fold provided on the outer surface of the flexible membrane and corresponding to the first protruding fold; and The at least one second deviating surface feature further includes a second recessed fold provided on the outer surface of the flexible membrane and corresponding to the second protruding fold.

12. A component for a head-mounted display device, the component comprising: A frame configured to be disposed in a housing of the head-mounted display device; A first optical module including a first lens and configured to be mounted to the frame; A second optical module including a second lens and configured to be mounted to the frame; And A flexible membrane configured to be attached to the frame and including: A first lens opening configured to receive the first lens, A second lens opening configured to receive the second lens, At least one first deviating surface feature disposed around the first lens opening, and At least one second deviating surface feature disposed around the second lens opening, wherein the first optical module and the second optical module are configured to move to change the interpupillary distance between the first lens and the second lens, Wherein the at least one first deviating surface feature is configured to change shape in response to movement of the first optical module to change the interpupillary distance, and Wherein the at least one second deviating surface feature is configured to change shape in response to movement of the second optical module to change the interpupillary distance.

13. The component according to claim 12, wherein any one or more of the following exist: a) wherein: The frame includes: A body configured to be attached to the housing, A first inner ring disposed in a space within the body, and A second inner ring disposed in the space within the body and spaced apart from the first inner ring; The first optical module is configured to be mounted in the first inner ring, and the second optical module is configured to be mounted in the second inner ring; and The flexible membrane further includes: An outer border attached to an outer edge portion of the flexible membrane and configured to be attached to the body of the frame, A first optical mounting border attached to a first inner edge portion of the flexible membrane defining the first lens opening and configured to be attached to the first optical module, and A second optical mounting frame, the second optical mounting frame being attached to a second inner edge portion of the flexible film that defines the second lens opening and being configured to be attached to the second optical module; or b) wherein: the at least one first off-surface feature includes a first recess, the first recess being provided on an inner surface of the flexible film in a peripheral portion of the flexible film and extending around the first lens opening; and the at least one second off-surface feature includes a second recess, the second recess being provided on the inner surface of the flexible film in the peripheral portion and extending around the second lens opening.

14. A head-mounted display device, the head-mounted display device comprising: A first optical module and a second optical module, the first optical module and the second optical module being mounted to a frame and including a first lens and a second lens; and A flexible film, the flexible film including: A first lens opening that houses the first lens, A second lens opening that houses the second lens, At least one first off-surface feature disposed around the first lens opening, and At least one second off-surface feature disposed around the second lens opening, wherein the first optical module and the second optical module are configured to move to change a pupil distance between the first lens and the second lens, wherein the at least one first off-surface feature is configured to change shape in response to movement of the first optical module to change the pupil distance, and wherein the at least one second off-surface feature is configured to change shape in response to movement of the second optical module to change the pupil distance.

15. The head-mounted display device according to claim 14, wherein any one of the following exists: a) wherein: The at least one first off-surface feature includes a first recess, the first recess being provided on an inner surface of the flexible film in a peripheral portion of the flexible film and extending around the first lens opening;and The at least one second off-surface feature includes a second recess, the second recess being provided on the inner surface of the flexible film in the peripheral portion and extending around the second lens opening; or b) wherein: the at least one first off-surface feature includes a first protruding fold, the first protruding fold being provided on an inner surface of the flexible film between the first lens opening and a central portion of the flexible film; and the at least one second off-surface feature includes a second protruding fold, the second protruding fold being provided on the inner surface of the flexible film between the second lens opening and the central portion of the flexible film.

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