Head-mounted display system
By adopting improved positioning and stabilizing structure and interface connection structure in the head-mounted display, the problem of user discomfort in the prior art when worn for a long time is solved, and higher comfort and stability are achieved.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202420908099.4
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2023-04-28
- Filing Date
- 2024-04-28
- Publication Date
- 2025-05-02
- Estimated Expiration
- 2034-04-28
AI Technical Summary
Existing head-mounted monitors are likely to cause discomfort when worn for a long time, especially in the design of positioning and stabilizing structures and interface connection structures, which are difficult to take into account both comfort and stability.
The positioning and stabilizing structure is adopted including a posterior support portion and an opposite connector, which is disposed at the posterior or occipital region of the upper base point of the user's ear, and the opposite connector extends along the temporal region of the user's head to interconnect the posterior support portion to the head-mounted display unit. Meanwhile, the interface connection structure adopts flexible and elastic face engagement sections arranged around the periphery of the user's eye area, including a chassis section and a pad support section to provide sealing and comfortable contact.
Through improved positioning and stable structure and interface connection structure, the head-mounted display reduces user discomfort when worn for a long time, improves comfort and stability, and enhances the user's immersive experience.
Smart Images

Figure CN222825748U_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0002] This application claims priority to Australian patent application No. 2023901266 filed on April 28, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field
[0003] The present technology generally relates to head-mounted displays, positioning and stabilization structures, user interface connection structures, and other components used in head-mounted displays, head-mounted display assemblies and systems including display units and positioning and stabilization structures, interface connection structures and / or components, and methods. The present technology finds particular application in the use of immersive reality head-mounted displays and is described herein in that context. It should be understood that the present technology may have broader application and may be used for any type of head-mounted display arrangement, including but not limited to virtual reality displays, augmented reality displays, and / or mixed reality displays. Background Art
[0004] It should be understood that if any prior art is referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or any other country.
[0005] Immersive Technology
[0006] Immersive technology refers to technology that attempts to reproduce or enhance the physical environment by creating surrounding sensory perceptions through digital or virtual environments, thereby creating a sense of immersion.
[0007] Specifically, immersive technology provides visual immersion for users and creates virtual objects and / or virtual environments. Immersive technology can also provide immersion for at least one of the other five senses.
[0008] Virtual Reality
[0009] Virtual reality (VR) is a computer-generated three-dimensional image or environment presented to a user. In other words, the environment may be completely virtual. Specifically, the user observes an electronic screen to observe virtual or computer-generated images in a virtual environment. Because the created environment is completely virtual, the user may be blocked and / or hindered from interacting with their physical environment (e.g., they may not be able to hear and / or see physical objects in the physical environment they are currently in).
[0010] The electronic screen can be supported within the user's line of sight (e.g., mounted on the user's head). When observing the electronic screen, the visual feedback output by the electronic screen and observed by the user can produce a virtual environment intended to simulate the actual environment. For example, the user is able to look around (e.g., 360°) by turning his head or his entire body, and interact with virtual objects observable by the user through the electronic screen. This can provide an immersive experience to the user, in which the virtual environment provides stimulation to at least one of the user's five senses and replaces the corresponding stimulation of the physical environment when the user uses the VR device. Typically, the stimulation is at least related to the user's vision (i.e., because they are watching the electronic screen), but other senses may also be included. Electronic screens are typically mounted on the user's head so that they can be positioned near the user's eyes, allowing the user to easily observe the virtual environment.
[0011] In addition to visual feedback, VR devices can also generate other forms of feedback. For example, a VR device can include and / or be connected to a speaker to provide auditory feedback. VR devices can also include tactile feedback (e.g., in the form of tactile responses), which can correspond to visual and / or auditory feedback. This can create a more immersive virtual environment because the user will receive stimulation corresponding to multiple senses of the user.
[0012] When using a VR device, a user may wish to limit blocking of environmental stimuli. For example, a user may wish to avoid seeing and / or hearing the surrounding environment in order to better process the stimuli from the VR device in a virtual environment. Therefore, the VR device can limit and / or prevent the user's eyes from receiving ambient light. In some instances, this can be achieved by providing a seal against the user's face. In some instances, the shield can be arranged to be close to (e.g., in contact or close contact with) the user's face, but may not be sealed against the user's face. In either instance, ambient light may not reach the user's eyes, so that the only light that the user can observe comes from the electronic screen.
[0013] In other examples, the VR device can limit and / or prevent the user's ears from hearing ambient noise. In some examples, this can be achieved by providing the user with headphones (e.g., noise-canceling headphones) that can output sound from the VR device and / or limit the user from hearing noise from their physical environment. In some examples, the VR device can output sound at a volume sufficient to limit the user from hearing ambient noise.
[0014] In any instance, the user may not want to be overstimulated (e.g., stimulated by both their physical environment and the virtual environment at the same time). Therefore, blocking and / or limiting the stimulation of the surrounding environment to the user helps the user focus on the virtual environment without being distracted by the surrounding environment.
[0015] Different types of VR devices are described below. Often, a single VR device may include at least two different classifications. For example, a VR device may be classified based on its portability and how the display unit connects to the rest of the interface. These classifications may be independent, so that classification in one group (e.g., portability of the unit) does not predetermine classification in another group. There may also be additional categories to classify VR devices that are not explicitly listed below.
[0016] Portability
[0017] Fixed unit
[0018] In some forms, a VR device may be used in conjunction with a separate device, such as a computer or video game console. This type of VR device may be stationary, in that it cannot be used without the computer or video game console, and therefore the locations where it can be used are limited (e.g., by the location of the computer or video game console).
[0019] Since VR devices can be used in conjunction with a computer or video game console, the VR device can be connected to the computer or video game console. For example, a wire can tether the two systems together. This can further "fix" the position of the VR device, because the user wearing the VR device cannot be farther away from the computer or video game console than the length of the wire. In other examples, the VR device can be connected wirelessly (e.g., via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc.), but can still be relatively fixed by the strength of the wireless signal.
[0020] A connection to a computer or video game console may provide control functionality to the VR device. The controls may communicate (i.e., via a wired connector or wirelessly) to help operate the VR device. In the example of a fixed unit VR device, these controls may be necessary to operate the display screen, and the VR device may be inoperable without a connection to the computer or video game console.
[0021] In some forms, a computer or video game console can provide power to a VR device so that the user does not need to support a battery on their head. This can make the VR device more comfortable to wear because the user does not need to support the weight of the battery.
[0022] The user may also receive output from a computer or video game console, at least in part, through the VR device, rather than through a television or monitor, which may provide the user with a more immersive experience when using the computer or video game console (e.g., playing a video game). In other words, the display output of the VR device may be substantially the same as the output of a computer monitor or television. Some of the controls and / or sensors required to output these images may be housed in the computer or video game console, which may further reduce the weight that the user needs to support on his or her body.
[0023] In some forms, the motion sensor may be located away from the VR device and connected to a computer or video game console. For example, at least one camera may face the user so as to track the movement of the user's head. The data recorded by the camera may be processed by the computer or video game console before being transmitted to the VR device. While this may help reduce the weight of the VR device, it may also further limit the range at which the VR device can be used. In other words, the VR device must be within the line of sight of the camera.
[0024] Portable Unit
[0025] In some forms, the VR device may be a stand-alone unit that includes a power source and sensors so that the VR device does not need to be connected to a computer or video game console. This provides the user with more freedom of use and movement. For example, the user is not limited to using the VR device near a computer or video game console, but may use the VR device outdoors or in other environments that do not include a computer or television.
[0026] Since VR devices are not connected to a computer or video game console when in use, VR devices are required to support all necessary electronic components. This includes batteries, sensors, and processors. These components add weight to the VR device, which the user must support on their body. Proper weight distribution may be required so that this added weight does not increase discomfort for the user wearing the VR device.
[0027] In some forms, the electrical components of the VR device are contained in a single housing that can be placed directly in front of the user's face when in use. This configuration can be called a "brick". In this configuration, the center of gravity of the VR device without a positioning and stabilizing structure is directly in front of the user's face. In order to counter the moment generated by gravity, the positioning and stabilizing structure connected to the brick configuration must provide a force directed to the user's face, such as the force generated by the tension in the headgear strap. Although the brick configuration may be beneficial for manufacturing (e.g., because all electrical components are very close) and the interchangeability of the positioning and stabilizing structures can be achieved (e.g., because they do not include electrical connections), the forces required to maintain the position of the VR device (e.g., tensile forces in the headgear) may be uncomfortable for the user. Specifically, the VR device may dig into the user's face, causing irritation and marks on the user's skin. When the user's head is subjected to the force of the display housing from the face and the force of the headgear from the back of the head, the combination of these two forces may produce a "clamping" feeling. This may make the user less likely to wear the VR device.
[0028] Because VR and other mixed reality devices can be used in ways that involve vigorous movement of the user's head and / or their entire body (e.g., during gaming), there may be significant forces / torques that tend to disturb the position of the device on the user's head. Simply making the device fit more tightly against the user's head to withstand large breaking forces may be unacceptable because it may be uncomfortable for the user or may become uncomfortable after a short period of time.
[0029] In some forms, electrical components may be spaced throughout the VR device, rather than being located entirely in front of the user's face. For example, some electrical components (e.g., batteries) may be disposed on a positioning and stabilizing structure, particularly on a rear contact portion. In this way, the weight of the battery (or other electrical component) may generate a torque that is directed in a direction opposite to the torque generated by the rest of the VR device (e.g., the display). As a result, it may be sufficient for the positioning and stabilizing structure to apply only a smaller clamping force, which in turn may result in less force on the user's face (e.g., less marking on their skin). However, in some such existing devices, cleaning and / or replacing the positioning and stabilizing structure may be more difficult due to the electrical connections.
[0030] In some forms, spacing out the electrical components may include positioning some electrical components separate from the rest of the VR device. For example, a battery and / or processor may be electrically connected but carried separately from the rest of the VR device. Unlike the "fixed unit" described above, the battery and / or processor along with the rest of the VR device may be portable. For example, the battery and / or processor may be carried on a user's belt or in a user's pocket. This may provide the benefit of reducing the weight on the user's head, but will not provide an offsetting moment. Since the total weight supported by the head is less, the tensile force provided by the positioning and stabilizing structure may still be less than a "brick" configuration.
[0031] Display Connection
[0032] Integrated display
[0033] In some forms, the display screen is an integral part of the VR device and generally cannot be separated or removed from the rest of the VR device.
[0034] The display can be fixed within the housing and protected from damage. For example, the display can be completely covered by the housing, which can reduce the occurrence of scratches. In addition, integrating the display with the rest of the VR device can avoid the situation where the display is lost.
[0035] In these forms, the display screen is used purely as an immersive technology display. The vast majority of "fixed units" will include an integrated display screen. "Portable units" may include an integrated display screen, or may include a detachable display screen (as described below).
[0036] Detachable display
[0037] In some forms, the display screen is a separate structure that can be removed from the VR device and used separately.
[0038] In some forms, a portable electronic device (e.g., a cell phone) can be selectively inserted into the housing of the VR device. The portable electronic device can include most or all sensors and / or processors, and can create a virtual environment through a downloadable application.
[0039] Portable electronic devices are generally lightweight and may not require positioning and stabilizing structures to apply significant forces to the user's head.
[0040] Augmented Reality
[0041] In some forms, augmented reality (AR) is a computer-generated three-dimensional image or environment presented to a user.
[0042] Although similar to VR, AR differs in that the virtual environment created at least in part by an electronic screen is viewed in conjunction with the user's physical environment. In other words, AR creates virtual objects in order to alter and / or augment the user's physical environment with elements of the virtual environment. The result of AR is a combined environment that includes both physical and virtual objects, and is therefore both physical and virtual.
[0043] For example, an image created by an electronic screen may be overlaid onto the user's physical environment. Only a portion of the AR composite environment presented to the user is virtual. Therefore, the user may wish to continue to receive environmental stimuli from his or her physical environment while using the AR device (e.g., in order to continue to observe physical or non-virtual components of the composite environment).
[0044] Because AR can be used with the user's physical environment, the AR device may not be electrically connected or otherwise tethered to a computer or video game console. Instead, the AR device may include a battery or other power source. This can provide the user with maximum freedom of movement, allowing them to explore a variety of physical environments while using the AR device.
[0045] This key difference between VR and AR may lead to different types of wearable electronic screens. As mentioned above, users of VR devices may want to block ambient light, so the housing of the electronic screen may be opaque in order to limit or prevent ambient light from reaching the user. However, users of AR devices may want to see the virtual environment merged with their actual environment. The electronic screen in the AR device can be similarly supported in front of the user's eyes, but the screen in the AR device can be transparent or translucent, and the screen may not be supported by an opaque housing (or the opaque material may not substantially block the user's line of sight). This can allow the user to continue to receive ambient stimulation while the virtual environment is present. Nevertheless, some VR devices without transparent screens can be configured for AR by acquiring a real-time video of the user's real-world environment from the user's perspective (e.g., using a camera on the display housing) and displaying it on a display screen, and the user can see their real-world environment through the transparent screen.
[0046] Additionally, a person using an AR device may be more mobile than a person using a VR device (e.g., because an AR user can see their physical environment and / or is not tethered to a computer or video game console). Thus, a person using an AR device may wish to wear the device for extended periods of time while also moving around (e.g., walking, running, biking, etc.). Including components such as a battery on an AR device may make the AR device uncomfortable for the user's head and / or neck, and may discourage the user from wearing the AR device for extended periods of time.
[0047] Mixed Reality
[0048] Mixed reality (MR) is similar to AR, but may be more immersive because MR devices may provide users with more ways to interact with virtual objects or environments than AR devices. Virtual reality in MR may also overlap and / or blend with the user's physical environment. However, unlike AR, the user may be able to interact with the virtual environment, similar to what happens in VR. In other words, while AR may present only computer-generated images in a physical environment, MR may present the same or similar computer-generated images to the user, but allow interaction with the images in the physical environment (e.g., using hands to "grab" virtually generated objects). Therefore, the virtual environment may be further merged with the physical environment so that the merged environment better reproduces the actual environment.
[0049] Head-mounted display interface
[0050] Head-mounted display interfaces enable users to have an immersive experience of a virtual environment and have a wide range of applications in fields such as communications, training, medical and surgical practice, engineering, and video games.
[0051] Different head-mounted display interfaces can each provide different degrees of immersion. For example, some head-mounted display interfaces can provide a fully immersive experience to the user. An example of a fully immersive experience is virtual reality (VR). A head-mounted display interface can also provide partial immersion consistent with using an AR device.
[0052] VR head-mounted display interfaces are typically provided as a system including a display unit that is arranged to be maintained in an operating position in front of a user's face. The display unit typically includes a housing containing a display and a user interface structure that is constructed and arranged to be in relative relationship to the user's face. The user interface structure may extend around the display and, together with the housing, define a viewing opening for the display. The user interface connection structure may engage with the face and include padding for user comfort and / or have a light seal to block ambient light from the display. The head-mounted display system also includes a positioning and stabilization structure that is disposed on the user's head to hold the display unit in place.
[0053] Other head mounted display interfaces can provide a partially immersive experience. In other words, the user can experience elements of their physical environment as well as elements of the virtual environment. Examples of partially immersive experiences are augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR).
[0054] AR and / or MR head-mounted display interfaces are also typically provided as a system including a display unit that is arranged to remain in an operating position in front of the user's face. Similarly, the display unit typically includes a housing containing a display and a user interface structure that is constructed and arranged to be in relative relationship to the user's face. The head-mounted display system of the AR and / or MR head-mounted display is also similar to VR in that it also includes a positioning and stabilization structure that is disposed on the user's head to hold the display unit in place. However, the AR and / or MR head-mounted display does not include a pad that completely seals ambient light from the display because these incompletely immersive experiences require elements of the physical environment. In contrast, augmented and / or hybrid head-mounted displays allow the user to see a combination of the physical environment and the virtual environment.
[0055] In any type of immersive technology, the comfort of the head mounted display interface is very important in order to allow the user to wear the head mounted display for a long period of time. In addition, it is important that the display is able to provide a changing image as the user's head position and / or orientation changes in order to create an environment that resembles or reproduces a fully physical environment, whether partially virtual or fully virtual.
[0056] Interface connection structure
[0057] The head mounted display may include a user interface connection structure. Since the interface connection part is in direct contact with the user's face, the shape and configuration of the interface connection part may have a direct impact on the effect and comfort of the display unit.
[0058] There are many challenges in designing user interface connections. The face has a complex three-dimensional shape. The size and shape of the nose and head vary greatly between individuals. Because the head is composed of bones, cartilage, and soft tissue, different areas of the face respond differently to mechanical forces.
[0059] One type of interfacing structure extends around the periphery of the display unit and is intended to seal against the user's face when force is applied to the user interface, wherein the interfacing structure engages the user's face. The interfacing structure may include a pad made of polyurethane (PU). With this type of interfacing structure, there may be a gap between the interfacing structure and the face, and therefore additional force may be required to force the display unit against the face to achieve the desired contact.
[0060] Areas where the user interface does not engage at all can allow gaps to form between the facial interface and the user's face, through which unwanted light contamination may enter the display unit (e.g., particularly when using virtual reality). Light contamination or "light leakage" may reduce the effectiveness and enjoyment of the user's fully immersive experience. Additionally, previous systems may be difficult to adjust so that they can be applied to a wide variety of head sizes. Furthermore, the display unit and associated stabilizing structures are typically relatively heavy and can be difficult to clean, which can further limit the comfort and usability of the system.
[0061] Another type of interfacing structure includes a sheet seal of thin material positioned around a portion of the periphery of the display unit to provide a seal against the user's face. Similar to the previous types of interfacing structures, if the fit between the face and the interfacing structure is poor, additional force may be required to achieve a seal, or light may leak into the display unit during use. Additionally, if the shape of the interfacing structure does not match the shape of the user, the interfacing structure may wrinkle or buckle during use, resulting in undesirable light penetration.
[0062] The user interface may be characterized in part according to the design intent of the interfacing structure to engage the face during use. Some interfacing structures may be limited to engagement with areas of the user's face that protrude beyond the arc of curvature of the face-engaging surface of the interfacing structure. These areas typically include the user's forehead and cheekbones. This may cause discomfort to the user at localized stress points. Other facial areas may not be engaged by the interfacing structure at all, or may be engaged only in a negligible manner, which may not be sufficient to increase the translational distance of the clamping pressure. These areas may typically include both sides of the user's face, or areas near and around the user's nose. To the extent that there is a mismatch between the shape of the user's face and the interfacing structure, it is advantageous that the interfacing structure or related components are adaptable so as to form an appropriate contact or other relationship.
[0063] Positioning and stabilization
[0064] In order to keep the display unit in its correct operating position, the head-mounted display system also includes positioning and stabilizing structures disposed on the user's head. These structures may be responsible for providing forces to counteract the gravity of the head-mounted display and / or the interface connection structure. In the past, these structures were formed of retractable rigid structures that were typically applied to the head under tension to keep the display unit in its operating position. Such systems tend to apply clamping pressure on the user's face, which may cause discomfort to the user at local stress points. Moreover, previous systems may be difficult to adjust to allow for a wide range of head size applications. In addition, the display unit and associated stabilizing structures are typically heavy and difficult to clean, further limiting the comfort and usability of the system.
[0065] Certain other head mounted display systems may not be functionally suitable for use in this field. For example, positioning and stabilization structures designed for decorative and visual aesthetics may not have the structural ability to maintain appropriate pressure around the face. For example, excessive clamping pressure may cause discomfort to the user, or alternatively, insufficient clamping pressure on the user's face may not effectively seal the display from ambient light.
[0066] Some other head mounted display systems may be uncomfortable or impractical for the present technology, for example if the system is used for an extended period of time.
[0067] Due to these challenges, some head-mounted displays suffer from one or more of the following issues: obtrusive, unsightly, expensive, poorly fitting, difficult to use, and uncomfortable, especially when worn for extended periods of time or when the user is unfamiliar with the system. The wrong size positioning and stabilization structures can reduce comfort and, in turn, shorten usage time.
[0068] Thus, the interfacing portions of a user interface for a fully immersive experience of a virtual environment are subject to forces corresponding to the movements of the user during the experience.
[0069] Material
[0070] Materials used in head mounted display components include dense foam for parts in the contact interface connection structure, rigid shells for the outer shell, and positioning and stabilization structures formed by rigid plastic clamping structures. These materials have various disadvantages, including not allowing the skin covered by the materials to breathe, lack of elasticity, difficulty in cleaning, and easy breeding of bacteria. As a result, products made with such materials can be uncomfortable when worn for long periods of time, causing skin irritation in some individuals and limiting the application of the products. Utility Model Content
[0071] The present technology may be directed to providing a positioning and stabilizing structure for supporting, stabilizing, mounting, using and / or securing a head mounted display with one or more of improved comfort, cost, efficacy, ease of use, and manufacturability.
[0072] A first aspect of the present technology relates to an apparatus for supporting, stabilizing, mounting, using and / or securing a head mounted display.
[0073] Another aspect of the present technology relates to methods for supporting, stabilizing, mounting, using and / or securing a head mounted display.
[0074] Another aspect is a positioning and stabilising structure for a head mounted display comprising a rear (or back) support structure (or portion) arranged to contact a rear region of a user's head in use.
[0075] In some forms, the rear support portion, or at least a portion thereof, is disposed posteriorly to a base point on the user's ear.
[0076] In some forms, the rear support portion is biased into contact with the occipital region of the user.
[0077] In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure further comprises opposing connectors disposed on opposing sides of the user's head and extending along the temporal region of the user's head to interconnect the rear support portion to the head mounted display unit. In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure comprises connecting the rear support portion to the front support portion of the head mounted display unit.
[0078] The present technology may also be directed to providing an interfacing structure for supporting, cushioning, stabilizing, positioning and / or sealing a head mounted display in relation to a user's face.
[0079] Another aspect relates to an apparatus for supporting, cushioning, stabilizing, positioning and / or sealing a head mounted display in relative relation to a user's face.
[0080] Another aspect relates to a method for supporting, cushioning, stabilizing, positioning and / or sealing a head mounted display in relation to a user's face.
[0081] Interface connection structure
[0082] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head mounted display system, comprising:
[0083] a head mounted display unit comprising a display, the head mounted display unit comprising an interfacing structure constructed and arranged to be in an opposing relationship with the face of the user in use; and
[0084] a positioning and stabilising structure constructed and arranged to retain the head mounted display unit in an operable position on the head of a user in use;
[0085] Wherein the interface connection structure includes a facial engaging portion which is flexible and resilient and is configured to engage the user's face during use.
[0086] In an instance: (a) the interface connection structure is arranged around the periphery of the user's eye area when in use; (b) the interface connection structure includes a chassis portion that is attached to the display unit housing when in use and includes a cushion support portion; (c) the facial engaging portion is supported by the chassis portion, and the facial engaging portion is attached to the cushion support portion of the chassis portion; and / or (d) at least a portion of the chassis portion that is attached to the display unit housing when in use has greater rigidity than the facial engaging portion.
[0087] Automatic sizing and / or forming
[0088] One form of the present technology includes automatic sizing and / or shaping of an augmented reality (AR) / virtual reality (VR) / mixed reality (MR) facial interface (hereinafter also referred to as a "facial interface") without the assistance of trained individuals or others.
[0089] Another aspect of one form of the present technology is automatically measuring facial features of a subject (eg, a user) based on data collected from the user.
[0090] Another aspect of one form of the present technology is automatically recommending facial interface size and / or shape based on a comparison between data collected from a user and corresponding data records.
[0091] Another aspect of one form of the present technology is to automatically recommend a customized facial interface size and / or shape based on data collected from the user. Based on the user's facial geometry, the customized facial interface can be unique to a given user.
[0092] Head mounted display system
[0093] Another form of the present technology includes a head-mounted display system for a person, comprising: a head-mounted display unit including a display; a control system for operating the head-mounted display system; and a positioning and stabilization structure, which is configured to hold the head-mounted display unit in front of the user's eyes so that the user can view the display when in use.
[0094] The head-mounted display system can be a helmet-type, and can be configured for virtual reality display, can be configured for augmented reality display, and can be configured for mixed reality display.
[0095] Another form of the present technology includes a head-mounted display system for a person, comprising: a head-mounted display unit including a display; a control system for operating the head-mounted display system; and a positioning and stabilization structure, which includes a front support portion and a rear support portion, wherein: the rear portion is configured to engage the rear region of the person's head during use; the front support portion includes: a left outer portion, which is configured to interconnect the rear support portion and the head-mounted display system; and a right outer portion, which is configured to interconnect the rear portion and the head-mounted display system.
[0096] In some instances: a) the head-mounted display device also includes a visor; b) the visor is constructed and arranged to substantially block the reception of ambient light on the eye region of a person when in use; c) the visor is configured for virtual reality display; d) the head-mounted display system includes an interface connection structure, which is constructed and arranged to contact the eye region of a person's face when in use; e) the interface connection structure is composed of foam, silicone and / or gel; f) the interface connection structure is composed of light absorbing material; and / or g) the interface connection structure is configured to function as a visor.
[0097] In some examples: a) the head mounted display device also includes a sound system; b) a left ear transducer; and / or c) a right ear transducer.
[0098] In some instances: a) the head mounted display unit includes a binocular display unit; and / or b) the positioning and stabilizing structure is configured to maintain the binocular display unit in an operating position during use.
[0099] In some instances: a) the control system includes a visual display controller and at least one battery; b) the at least one battery includes a first battery and a second battery; c) the first battery is a low power system battery configured to power an RT clock; d) the second battery is a main battery; e) a battery support configured to hold the battery; f) the battery support is connected to a positioning and stabilizing structure using a tether; g) an orientation sensor configured to sense the orientation of a person's head during use; and / or h) a control support system.
[0100] In some instances: a) the positioning and stabilizing structure includes a forehead support configured to contact an area covering a frontal bone of a person's head; and / or (b) the positioning and stabilizing structure includes a length adjustment mechanism for adjusting the length of a portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure.
[0101] Another form of the present technology includes a head-mounted display device for a person, comprising: a display unit; a visor; a control system, the control system including a visual display controller, at least one battery, a battery support, an orientation sensor, and a control support system; a sound system; and a positioning and stabilization structure, the positioning and stabilization structure including a front portion, a frontal portion, a left lateral portion, a right lateral portion, a rear portion, and a length adjustment mechanism, wherein: the front portion includes an eye pad, the eye pad is constructed and arranged to contact the user's eye area during use; the rear portion is configured to engage the area of the person's head adjacent to the junction between the occipital bone and the trapezius muscle during use domain; the left lateral portion is configured to interconnect the front portion and the rear portion; the right lateral portion is configured to interconnect the front portion and the rear portion; the frontal portion is configured to interconnect the front portion and the rear portion; and the length adjustment mechanism is adjustable to a first position and a second position; wherein: the display unit includes a binocular display unit; the visor is constructed and arranged to substantially block the reception of ambient light on the eye region of the person in use; the orientation sensor is configured to sense the orientation of the person's head in use, the sound system includes a left ear transducer and a right ear transducer; and the positioning and stabilization structure is configured to maintain the binocular display unit in an operating position in use. The head-mounted display device may include a positioning and stabilization structure and / or an interface connection structure substantially as described in any example disclosed herein.
[0102] Another form of the present technology includes a head-mounted display interface, comprising: an electronic display screen configured to output multiple images to a user; a display housing configured to at least partially house the electronic display screen; and a positioning and stabilizing structure connected to the display housing and supporting the display housing and the electronic display screen in an operating position, the positioning and stabilizing structure configured to provide a force against the user's head so as to offset the moment generated by the combined weight of the electronic display screen and the display housing, and to maintain the electronic display screen in a position in front of the user's eyes when in the operating position; wherein the positioning and stabilizing structure is substantially as described in any example disclosed herein.
[0103] Another form of the present technology includes a positioning and stabilizing structure for supporting an electronic display screen of a head-mounted display interface, the positioning and stabilizing structure being configured to provide a force against a user's head so as to offset the moment generated by the weight of the electronic display screen and to maintain the position of the electronic display screen in front of the user's eyes during use, the positioning and stabilizing structure comprising: a rear strap configured to contact an area of the user's head located behind the coronal plane of the user's head, the rear strap being configured to anchor the head-mounted display interface to the user's head.
[0104] Another form of the present technology includes a positioning and stabilizing structure for supporting an electronic display unit, the positioning and stabilizing structure being configured to provide a force against a user's head so as to offset the moment generated by the weight of the electronic display unit and to maintain the position of the electronic display unit in front of the user's eyes during use, the positioning and stabilizing structure comprising: a head cover configured to be connected to a housing of the electronic display unit and engage the user's head so as to support the housing.
[0105] Another aspect of the present technology includes a display interface, comprising: a display screen configured to output a computer-generated image observable by a user; a display housing that at least partially supports the display screen; an interface connection structure that is connected to the display screen and / or the display housing, the interface connection structure being configured to be positioned and / or arranged to conform to at least a portion of the user's face; a positioning and stabilization structure that is configured to maintain the position of the display screen and / or the display housing relative to the user's eyes, the positioning and stabilization structure being configured to provide a force against the user's head to offset the moment generated by the weight of the display screen and / or the display housing; and a control system that is configured to assist in controlling the computer-generated image observable by the user, the control system including at least one sensor.
[0106] Another aspect of the present technology includes a virtual reality display interface, comprising: a display screen configured to output a computer-generated image observable by a user; a display housing that at least partially supports the display screen; an interface structure coupled to the display housing, the interface connection structure configured to be positioned and / or arranged to conform to at least a portion of a user's face, the interface structure including a visor configured to at least partially block ambient light from reaching the user's eyes; a positioning and stabilization structure coupled to the display housing and configured to provide a force against the user's head to offset a moment generated by the weight of the display screen and / or the display housing, the positioning and stabilization structure including a pair of temporal connectors, each of the pair of temporal connectors being directly coupled to the display housing, each of the temporal connectors being configured to cover a corresponding temporal bone when contacting the user's head, and a rear support coupled to each of the temporal connectors, the rear support being configured to contact a rear portion of the user's head; and a control system configured to assist in controlling the computer-generated image observable by the user, the control system including at least one sensor configured to measure movement of the user.
[0107] In some forms, the visor is configured to seal against the user's face and prevent ambient light from reaching the user's eyes.
[0108] In some forms, the display screen is completely enclosed within the display housing.
[0109] In some versions, the light shield is comprised of an opaque material.
[0110] In some forms, the interfacing structure is comprised of an elastomeric material.
[0111] In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure includes a rotation control configured to allow the display housing and / or display interface to pivot relative to the rear support.
[0112] For example, the temporal arm can rotate with the display housing and / or display interface. In other examples, the rotation control device can couple the display housing to each of the temporal connectors so that the display housing and / or display interface pivots relative to the temporal connectors.
[0113] In some versions, the temporal connector may comprise an adjustable length.
[0114] Another aspect of the present technology includes an augmented reality display interface, comprising: a display screen configured to output a computer-generated image observable by a user, the display screen including at least one optical lens constructed of a transparent and / or translucent material, the at least one optical lens configured to allow the user to observe their physical environment while observing the computer-generated image; a display housing that at least partially supports the display screen; an interface structure coupled to the display housing and / or the display interface, the interface connection structure configured to be positioned and / or arranged to conform to at least a portion of a user's face; a positioning and stabilization structure coupled to the display housing and configured to provide a force against the user's head to offset the moment generated by the weight of the display screen and / or the display housing, the positioning and stabilization structure including a pair of temporal connectors, each of the pair of temporal connectors being directly coupled to the display housing, each temporal connector being configured to cover a corresponding temporal bone when contacting the user's head; and a control system configured to assist in controlling the computer-generated image observable by the user, the control system including at least one sensor configured to measure movement of the user.
[0115] In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure further includes a posterior support configured to cover an occipital portion of the user, each temporal connector being coupled to the posterior support.
[0116] In some forms, the augmented reality display interface also includes a power source coupled to the display interface and / or to the positioning and stabilization structure.
[0117] For example, the power source may be a rechargeable battery.
[0118] In some forms, the display screen is configured to selectively output computer-generated images viewable by a user.
[0119] For example, computer generated images can be displayed on transparent and / or translucent materials. Regardless of whether the computer generated images are displayed on transparent and / or translucent materials, users are able to see the physical environment observing them.
[0120] Another aspect of the present technology includes a virtual reality display interface that includes instances of aspects of the above-described head-mounted display system.
[0121] In an example of aspects of the head mounted display system described above, the display unit includes a display configured to selectively output a computer-generated image visible to a user in an operating position.
[0122] In examples of various aspects of the head-mounted display system described above, the display unit includes a housing.
[0123] In some forms, the housing supports the display.
[0124] In an example of the various aspects of the head mounted display system described above, the display unit includes an interface connection structure that is coupled to the housing and is arranged in an opposing relationship with the user's face in an operating position.
[0125] In some forms, the interfacing structure at least partially forms a viewing opening configured to at least partially receive a user's face in an operative position.
[0126] In some forms, the interfacing structure is at least partially constructed from an opaque material configured to at least partially block ambient light from reaching the viewing opening in the operative position.
[0127] In an example of the various aspects of the head mounted display system described above, the display unit includes at least one lens coupled to the housing and disposed within the viewing opening and aligned with the display so as to be in an operational position.
[0128] In some forms, a user may view the display through at least one lens.
[0129] In examples of the various aspects of the head mounted display system described above, the control system has at least one sensor in communication with the processor.
[0130] In some forms, the at least one sensor is configured to measure a parameter and transmit the measurement to the processor.
[0131] In some forms, the processor is configured to alter a computer-generated image output by the display based on the measurement value.
[0132] Another aspect of the present technology includes an augmented reality display interface that includes instances of aspects of the head-mounted display system described above.
[0133] In an example of various aspects of the head-mounted display system described above, the display unit includes a display constructed of a transparent or translucent material, the display being configured to selectively provide a computer-generated image viewable by a user.
[0134] In examples of various aspects of the head-mounted display system described above, the display unit includes a housing.
[0135] In some forms, the housing supports the display.
[0136] In an example of the various aspects of the head mounted display system described above, the display unit includes an interface connection structure that is coupled to the housing and is arranged in an opposing relationship with the user's face in an operating position.
[0137] In examples of aspects of the head mounted display system described above, in an operating position, the positioning and stabilizing structure is configured to support the display unit.
[0138] In examples of aspects of the head-mounted display system described above, the display is configured to align with the user's eyes in an operating position so that the user can at least partially view the physical environment through the display regardless of the computer-generated images output by the display.
[0139] In an example of the various aspects of the above head mounted display system, the head mounted display system also includes a control system having at least one sensor in communication with the processor.
[0140] In some forms, the at least one sensor is configured to measure a parameter and transmit the measurement to the processor.
[0141] In some forms, the processor is configured to alter a computer-generated image output by the display based on the measurement value.
[0142] In some forms, the at least one lens includes a first lens and a second lens, the second lens being configured to align with a left eye of a user in an operating position, the second lens being configured to align with a right eye of a user in an operating position.
[0143] In some forms, the first lens and the second lens are Fresnel lenses.
[0144] In some forms, the display comprises a binocular display divided into a first segment and a second segment, the first segment being aligned with the first lens and the second segment being aligned with the second lens.
[0145] In some forms, the controller has at least one button selectively engageable by a user's finger, the controller is in communication with the processor and is configured to send a signal to the processor when the at least one button is engaged, the processor being configured to change a computer-generated image output by the display based on the signal.
[0146] In some forms, the at least one lens includes a first lens and a second lens, the first lens being configured to align with a left eye of a user in an operating position, and the second lens being configured to align with a right eye of a user in an operating position.
[0147] Identification of user-specific data
[0148] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head mounted display system, comprising:
[0149] a head mounted display unit including a display;
[0150] an interfacing structure constructed and arranged to be in opposing relation to a face of a user in use, wherein the interfacing structure is configured to be releasably secured to the head mounted display unit; and
[0151] a positioning and stabilising structure constructed and arranged to retain the head mounted display unit in an operable position on the head of a user in use;
[0152] Wherein at least one of the interfacing structure and the positioning and stabilising structure comprises at least one identification device comprising data associated with a user.
[0153] In an instance, the head mounted display unit includes at least one communication device configured to communicate with the at least one identification device to access data associated with the user.
[0154] In an instance: (a) at least one communication device is configured to wirelessly communicate with at least one identification device; (b) at least one identification device includes a radio frequency identification (RFID) device; (c) the RFID device is a low frequency (LF) RFID device; (d) the RFID device is a high frequency (HF) or ultra high frequency (UHF) RFID device; (e) at least one communication device includes an RFID reader configured to read the RFID device; (f) at least one identification device includes a near field communication (NFC) device; (g) at least one communication device includes an NFC reader configured to read an NFC device; and / or (h) at least one communication device is configured to communicate with at least one identification device via a wired interface.
[0155] In an instance, the head mounted display unit is configured to communicate with at least one identification device via an intermediate device to access data associated with a user.
[0156] In an instance: (a) at least one identification device is disposed within a rigid component of the interfacing structure and / or the positioning and stabilising structure; (b) at least one identification device is disposed within a portion of the interfacing structure proximal to a head mounted display unit during use; (c) at least one identification device is disposed within a chassis portion of the interfacing structure; (d) at least one identification device is disposed within a portion of the positioning and stabilising structure proximal to a head mounted display unit during use; and / or (e) at least one identification device is disposed within a temporal connector of the positioning and stabilising structure.
[0157] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, comprising: a head-mounted display unit including a display, wherein the head-mounted display unit is configured to communicate via at least a first communication technology; an interface connection structure, which is constructed and arranged to be in relative relationship with a user's face during use, wherein the interface connection structure is configured to be releasably fixed to the head-mounted display unit; and a positioning and stabilization structure, which is constructed and arranged to maintain the head-mounted display unit in an operable position on the user's head during use, wherein the interface connection structure includes at least one interface connection structure communication device, and the at least one interface connection structure communication device is configured to communicate with a remote device via a second communication technology and to communicate with the head-mounted display unit via the first communication technology.
[0158] Another aspect of the present technology relates to an interface connection structure for use with a head-mounted display system, the head-mounted display system comprising a head-mounted display unit, the head-mounted display unit comprising a display, wherein the head-mounted display unit is configured to communicate via at least a first communication technology, the interface connection structure is constructed and arranged to be in relative relationship with a user's face during use, wherein the interface connection structure is configured to be releasably fixed to the head-mounted display unit, wherein the interface connection structure includes at least one interface connection structure communication device, and the at least one interface connection structure communication device is configured to communicate with a remote device via a second communication technology and to communicate with the head-mounted display unit via the first communication technology.
[0159] In the instance: (a) the second communication technology is a wireless communication technology; (b) the first communication technology is a wireless communication technology different from the second communication technology; (c) the first communication technology includes a wired connection between the head-mounted display unit and the interface connection structure.
[0160] In the examples: (a) at least one interface structure communication device is disposed on a radially inward surface of a rigid component of the interface structure; and (b) at least one interface structure communication device is disposed on a radially inward surface of a chassis portion of the interface structure.
[0161] In an example, the remote device is an identification device that includes data associated with the user.
[0162] In an example: (a) data associated with a user includes a unique user identifier (UID); (b) the UID is associated with an account of the user, wherein the head mounted display unit is configured to use the UID to access the account; (c) the account includes user-specific data; (d) the user-specific data includes setting preferences for the head mounted display unit; (e) the setting preferences for the head mounted display unit include one or more of the following: comfort settings (e.g., motion sickness reduction settings, preferred lighting levels, cooling settings), visual settings (e.g., resolution and / or color calibration settings), audio settings (e.g., preferred volume levels, EQ settings, or surround sound preferences), language preferences, control scheme preferences (e.g., hand tracking, gesture recognition, controller configuration, etc.), and the like. (e.g., settings), social preferences (e.g., contact lists, chat settings, privacy settings), environmental settings (e.g., size and configuration of the surrounding space); (f) user-specific data includes activity history (e.g., motion tracking for fitness / health statistics); (g) user-specific data includes medical information that informs the settings of the head mounted display unit; (h) user-specific data includes content-related data; (i) content-related data includes one or more of the following: access permissions, subscriptions, purchased and / or downloaded content, and content history (e.g., game achievements or progress); (j) user-specific data includes settings preferences for at least one of an interface connection structure and a positioning and stabilization structure; and / or (k) data associated with a user includes user-specific data.
[0163] Interfacing structures and / or positioning and stabilizing structures including tactile output
[0164] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, comprising: a head-mounted display unit including a display; an interface connection structure, which is constructed and arranged to be in relative relationship with a user's face during use, wherein the interface connection structure is configured to be releasably secured to the head-mounted display unit; and a positioning and stabilization structure, which is constructed and arranged to maintain the head-mounted display unit in an operable position on the user's head during use, wherein at least one of the interface connection structure and the positioning and stabilization structure includes at least one tactile output device.
[0165] In examples: (a) at least one haptic output device comprises one or more of: a vibrotactile, an electrotactile, and a piezoelectric actuator; (b) at least one haptic output device comprises an actuator and a dispensing member; (c) at least one haptic output device is disposed on either side of the median plane in use; (d) the interfacing structure comprises a face engaging portion and a chassis portion configured to be attached to a head mounted display unit, wherein the at least one haptic output device is disposed between the face engaging portion and the chassis portion; (e) the face engaging portion comprises a cushion, and the at least one haptic output device is disposed in the cushion; (f) the interfacing structure comprises at least one haptic output device in the forehead region; (g) the interfacing structure comprises at least one haptic output device in the cheek region; (h) the interfacing structure comprises at least one haptic output device located between the forehead region and the cheek region; (i) the positioning and stabilizing structure comprises a multi-layer structure comprising a conduit between at least two layers, wherein the at least one haptic output device is disposed in the conduit.
[0166] Actuation configuration of the interfacing structure and / or positioning and stabilizing structure
[0167] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, comprising: a head-mounted display unit including a display; an interface connection structure, which is constructed and arranged to be in relative relationship with a user's face during use, wherein the interface connection structure is configured to be releasably fixed to the head-mounted display unit; and a positioning and stabilization structure, which is constructed and arranged to maintain the head-mounted display unit in an operable position on the user's head during use, wherein at least one of the interface connection structure and the positioning and stabilization structure includes at least one adjustable portion and at least one actuator, and the at least one actuator is configured to control movement of the adjustable portion.
[0168] In an instance: (a) the interface connection structure includes a facial engagement portion, and the facial engagement portion includes at least one facial engagement adjustable portion; (b) at least one facial engagement adjustable portion is movable in at least one of the following directions: an anterior-posterior direction, and radially inward and outward directions; (c) the positioning and stabilizing structure includes at least one adjustable strap portion, and the at least one actuator is configured to control the length of the adjustable strap portion; (d) the head-mounted display unit is configured to control the at least one actuator; (e) at least one of the interface connection structure and the positioning and stabilizing structure includes a controller configured to control the at least one actuator; (f) control of the at least one actuator is based on at least one user setting; and / or (g) at least one user setting is obtained using automatic sizing.
[0169] Another aspect of one form of the present technology is a positioning and stabilizing structure configured in a shape complementary to the shape of the intended wearer.
[0170]
[0013] Another aspect of one form of the present technology is an interfacing structure configured to complement the shape of an intended wearer.
[0171] One aspect of one form of the present technology is a method of making a device.
[0172] One aspect of some forms of the present technology is an easy-to-use positioning and stabilizing structure that can be used, for example, by people with limited dexterity and vision or people with limited experience using head-mounted displays.
[0173] One aspect of some forms of the present technology is an easy-to-use interfacing structure that can be used, for example, by people with limited dexterity and vision or people with limited experience using head-mounted displays.
[0174] The described methods, systems, devices, and apparatuses may be implemented to improve the functionality of head mounted displays such as electronic displays or computers. In addition, the described methods, systems, devices, and apparatuses may provide improvements in the technical fields of virtual reality, augmented reality, and / or mixed reality.
[0175] Of course, parts of these aspects may form sub-aspects of the present technology. In addition, sub-aspects and / or various aspects of each aspect may be combined in various ways, and also constitute additional aspects or sub-aspects of the present technology.
[0176] Other features of the technology will become apparent by considering the information contained in the following detailed description, abstract, drawings, and claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0177] The present technology is illustrated by way of example and not limitation in the figures of the accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements, including:
[0178] Head mounted display system
[0179] Figure 1A A system is shown including a user 100 wearing a head mounted display system 1000, which takes the form of a face mounted virtual reality (VR) headset, displaying various images to the user 100. The user stands while wearing the head mounted display system 1000.
[0180] Figure 1BA system is shown including a user 100 wearing a head mounted display system 1000, which takes the form of a floating virtual reality (VR) headset that displays various images to the user. The user sits while wearing the head mounted display system 1000.
[0181] Figure 1C A system is shown including a user 100 wearing a head mounted display system 1000, which takes the form of a floating augmented reality (AR) headset that displays various images to the user. The user stands while wearing the head mounted display system 1000.
[0182] Display system and facial anatomy
[0183] Figure 2A A view of the human upper airway including the nasal cavity, nasal bones, lateral nasal cartilages, greater alar cartilages, nostrils, upper lip, lower lip, larynx, hard palate, soft palate, oropharynx, tongue, epiglottis, vocal cords, esophagus, and trachea is shown.
[0184] Figure 2B is a front view of the face with several surface anatomical features labeled, including the upper lip, upper lip vermilion, lower lip vermilion, lower lip, mouth width, medial canthus, nasal wing, nasolabial groove, and lip angle. The superior, inferior, radially inward, and radially outward directions are also labeled.
[0185] Figure 2C It is a side view of the head with several surface anatomical features labeled, including the glabella, nasal bridge point, nasal prominence point, nasal septum subseptum point, upper lip, lower lip, supramental point, nasal ridge, nasal wing apex, supra-auricular base point, and subauricular base point. The superior-inferior and anterior-posterior directions are also labeled.
[0186] Figure 2D This is another lateral view of the head. The approximate location of the Frankfort horizontal plane and the nasolabial angle are indicated. The coronal plane is also indicated.
[0187] Figure 2E A bottom view of the nose is shown with several features identified, including the nasolabial folds, lower lip, vermilion of the upper lip, nostrils, subseptal point, columella, pronasal point, long axis of the nostrils, and the midsagittal plane.
[0188] Figure 2F A side view of the nasal surface features is shown.
[0189] Figure 2G The subcutaneous structures of the nose are shown, including the lateral cartilage, septal cartilage, greater alar cartilage, lesser alar cartilage, sesamoid cartilage, nasal bone, epidermis, adipose tissue, frontal process of the maxilla, and fibroadipose tissue.
[0190] Figure 2HThe medial anatomy of the nose is shown approximately a few millimeters from the mid-sagittal plane, showing, among other things, the medial crus of the septal cartilage and the greater alar cartilage.
[0191] Fig.2I A front view of the skull is shown, including the frontal, nasal, and zygomatic bones. The nasal turbinates are also labeled, as are the maxilla and mandible.
[0192] Figure 2J A side view of the skull is shown with the outline of the head surface and several muscles. The following bones are shown: frontal, sphenoid, nasal, zygomatic, maxillary, mandibular, parietal, temporal, and occipital. The mental protuberance is labeled. The following muscles are shown: digastric, masseter, sternocleidomastoid, and trapezius.
[0193] Figure 2K An anterolateral view of the nose is shown. The following bones are shown: frontal, supraorbital foramen, nasal process cartilage, lateral cartilage, orbit, and infraorbital foramen.
[0194] Figure 2L Another anterior view of the face is shown with several features of surface anatomy identified, including the parietal muscles, sphenoid bone, nasal ridge, external and internal cheek regions, zygomatic arches, and pterygoid ridges.
[0195] Figure 2M Another lateral view of the face is shown with several features of surface anatomy identified, including the parietal muscles, sphenoid bone, nasal ridge, external and internal cheek regions, zygomatic arch, and pterygoid ridge.
[0196] Structural shape
[0197] Figure 3A A schematic diagram of a cross section through the structure at a point is shown. The outward normal at point is labeled. The curvature at this point has a positive sign and is Figure 3B The curvature magnitude shown is relatively large in comparison.
[0198] Figure 3B A schematic diagram of a cross section through the structure at a point is shown. The outward normal at point is labeled. The curvature at this point has a positive sign and is Figure 3A The curvature magnitude shown is relatively small in comparison.
[0199] Figure 3C A schematic diagram of a cross section through the structure at a point is shown. The outward normal at point is indicated. The curvature at this point has a value of zero.
[0200] Figure 3D A schematic diagram of a cross section through the structure at a point is shown. The outward normal at point is labeled. The curvature at this point has a negative sign and is Figure 3E The curvature magnitude shown is relatively small in comparison.
[0201] Figure 3E A schematic diagram of a cross section through the structure at a point is shown. The outward normal at point is labeled. The curvature at this point has a negative sign and is Figure 3D The curvature magnitude shown is relatively large in comparison.
[0202] Figure 3F A surface having a structure with a one-dimensional hole on the surface is shown. The plane curves shown form the boundaries of the one-dimensional hole.
[0203] Figure 3G Shown through Figure 3F The surface shown is in the cross section of the structure. Figure 3F A two-dimensional hole is defined in the structure.
[0204] Figure 3H Shows Figure 3F A perspective view of the structure of includes two-dimensional holes and one-dimensional holes. Also shown is the Figure 3F The surface of the two-dimensional holes is defined in the structure.
[0205] FIG. 3I to FIG. 3J The seal forming structure is shown. The outer surface of the gasket is indicated. The edge of the surface is indicated. The path on the surface between points A and B is indicated. The straight line distance between points A and B is indicated. Two saddle areas and one dome area are indicated.
[0206] Figure 3K The diagram illustrates the left-hand rule.
[0207] Figure 3L The diagram illustrates the right-hand rule.
[0208] Figure 3M The left ear is shown including the left ear helix.
[0209] Figure 3N The right ear including the right ear helix is shown.
[0210] Fig.3O A right-handed helix is shown.
[0211] Head-mounted virtual reality display
[0212] Figure 4A Shown is a front perspective view of a head mounted display interface in accordance with one form of the present technology.
[0213] Figure 4B Shows Figure 4A A rear perspective view of the head-mounted display.
[0214] Figure 4C Shown with Figure 4AA perspective view of a positioning and stabilization structure for use with a head mounted display.
[0215] Figure 4D A front view of a user's face is shown, illustrating the position of the interfacing structure during use.
[0216] Head-mounted augmented reality display
[0217] Figure 5A Shown is a front perspective view of a head mounted display interface in accordance with one form of the present technology.
[0218] Figure 5B Shows Figure 5A A side view of the head-mounted display interface.
[0219] Controls
[0220] Figure 6 A schematic diagram showing a control system of one form of the present technology.
[0221] Other Examples
[0222] Fig. 7A is worn by the user including Figure 7B A side view of the positioning and stabilization structure of a head mounted display system.
[0223] Figure 7B is an anterolateral view of a positioning and stabilizing structure according to an example of the present technology.
[0224] Fig. 8A A schematic diagram of a system according to an example of the present technology is shown.
[0225] Figure 8B A schematic diagram of a system according to another example of the present technology is shown.
[0226] Figure 8C A schematic diagram of a system according to another example of the present technology is shown.
[0227] Fig.9A A perspective view showing an interfacing structure of an integrated identification device according to an example of the present technology.
[0228] Fig. 9B A perspective view of a head mounted display system including a positioning and stabilization structure with an identification device according to an example of the present technology is shown.
[0229] Fig. 10A A front perspective view of an interfacing structure of an integrated communication device according to an example of the present technology is shown.
[0230] Fig. 10B Shows Fig. 10A Rear perspective view of the interface connection structure.
[0231] Fig. 10C A side view of a head mounted display system including an interfacing structure for an integrated communication device according to an example of the present technology is shown.
[0232] Fig.11A is a top view of a haptic output device according to an example of the present technology.
[0233] Fig. 11B is a cross-sectional view of an interfacing structure including at least one haptic output device according to an example of the present technology.
[0234] Fig. 11C A rear view of an interfacing structure of an integrated haptic output device according to examples of the present technology is shown.
[0235] Fig.11D A rear view of another interfacing structure of an integrated haptic output device according to examples of the present technology is shown.
[0236] Fig.12 A head mounted display system including a positioning and stabilization structure for an integrated haptic output device according to an example of the present technology is shown.
[0237] Fig.13 An exemplary forehead pad for positioning and stabilizing a structure according to an aspect of the present technology is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0238] Before describing the present technology in more detail, it should be understood that the technology is not limited to the specific examples described herein, which may vary. It should also be understood that the terminology used in the present disclosure is only for the purpose of describing the specific examples discussed herein, and is not intended to be limiting.
[0239] The following description is provided about various examples that can share one or more common characteristics and / or features. It should be understood that one or more features of any one example can be combined with one or more features of another example or other examples. In addition, any single feature or combination of features in any one example can constitute another example.
[0240] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part of the detailed description. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, depicted in the accompanying drawings, and defined in the claims are not intended to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the disclosure as generally described herein and shown in the accompanying drawings may be arranged, substituted, combined, separated, and designed in a variety of different configurations, all of which are contemplated in the present disclosure.
[0241] Immersive Technology
[0242] Immersive technology can present a user with a combination of a virtual environment and the user's physical environment or the real world. The user can interact with the resulting immersive or combined reality.
[0243] The device immerses the user by augmenting or replacing the stimulus associated with one of the user's five senses with a virtual stimulus. Typically, this is a virtual stimulus, although additional stimuli may be present to augment or replace the stimulus associated with one of the other four senses.
[0244] In some forms, a particular immersive technology may present a combination of a virtual environment and a user environment to a user. At least a portion of the resulting environment may include the virtual environment. In some instances, the entire resulting environment may be a virtual environment (e.g., meaning that the user's environment may be blocked from view or otherwise obscured). In other forms, at least a portion of the user's physical environment may still be visually observable.
[0245] In some forms, users may use different types of immersive technology, which may include but are not limited to virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), or mixed reality (MR). Each type of immersive technology may present a different environment to the user and / or a different way to interact with the environment.
[0246] In some forms, the display system can be used with each type of immersive technology. The display screen of the display system can provide virtual environment components to the combined environment (i.e., the combination of the virtual environment and the user environment). In some forms, the display screen can be an electronic screen.
[0247] In at least some types of immersive technologies (e.g., VR, AR, MR, etc.), positioning and stabilizing electronic screens may help operate the corresponding devices. For example, users may want electronic screens to be positioned close enough to their eyes for viewing, but far enough away so as not to cause discomfort. In addition, electronic screens may need to be spaced far enough apart so that users can simultaneously wear corrective lenses, such as glasses. In addition, users can try to maintain the orientation of the electronic screen relative to their eyes. In other words, users who walk or otherwise move while using these devices may not want the devices to bounce on their heads or otherwise move (e.g., particularly relative to their eyes) because this may cause dizziness and / or discomfort to the user. Therefore, these devices can be supported against the user's head to limit the relative movement between the user's eyes and the device.
[0248] In one form, the technology includes a method for using a VR device, the method comprising supporting the device on a user's head, near at least one of the user's eyes, and within the user's line of sight.
[0249] In some examples of the present technology, a head mounted display unit is supported in front of the user's eyes so as to block, obstruct and / or limit ambient light from reaching the user's eyes.
[0250] Any features disclosed below in the context of a device configured for VR will be understood to be applicable to devices configured for AR, unless the context clearly requires otherwise. Similarly, features disclosed below in the context of a device configured for AR will be understood to be applicable to devices configured for VR, unless the context clearly requires otherwise. For the avoidance of doubt, features disclosed in the context of a device without a transparent display (through which a user can view the real world) should be understood to be applicable to devices with such a transparent display, unless the context clearly requires otherwise. Similarly, features disclosed in the context of a device with a transparent display (through which the real world can be viewed) should be understood to be applicable to devices in which the display is electronic and the real world cannot be viewed directly through the transparent material.
[0251] Virtual reality display system
[0252] like Figure 4A and Figure 4B As shown, a display device, display system, display interface or head-mounted display system 1000 according to one aspect of the present technology includes the following functional aspects: an interface connection structure 1100, a head-mounted display unit 1200, and a positioning and stabilization structure 1300. In some forms, the functional aspects may provide one or more physical components. In some forms, one or more physical components may provide one or more functional aspects. The head-mounted display unit 1200 may include a display. In use, the head-mounted display unit 1200 is arranged to be positioned near and in front of the user's eyes, thereby allowing the user to view the display.
[0253] In other aspects, the head mounted display system 1000 may also include a display unit housing 1205, an optical lens 1240, a controller 1270, a speaker 1272, a power supply 1274, and / or a control system 1276. In some instances, these may be integral to the head mounted display system 1000, while in other instances, these may be modular and incorporated into the head mounted display system 1000 as desired by the user.
[0254] Head mounted display unit
[0255] The head mounted display unit 1200 may include a structure for providing an observable output to a user. Specifically, the head mounted display unit 1200 is arranged to be maintained (eg, manually, by positioning and stabilizing structures, etc.) in an operating position in front of the user's face.
[0256] In some examples, the head mounted display unit 1200 may include a display screen 1220, a display unit housing 1205, an interface connection structure 1100, and / or an optical lens 1240. These components may be permanently assembled into a single head mounted display unit 1200, or they may be separable and selectively connected by a user to form the head mounted display unit 1200. In addition, the display screen 1220, the display unit housing 1205, the interface connection structure 1100, and / or the optical lens 1240 may be included in the head mounted display system 1000, but may not be part of the head mounted display unit 1200.
[0257] Display
[0258] Some forms of head mounted display unit 1200 include a display, such as a display screen ( Figure 4B 1204), but is disposed within the display unit housing 1205. The display screen may include electrical components that provide a viewable output to a user.
[0259] In one form of the present technology, a display screen provides an optical output observable by a user. The optical output allows the user to observe a virtual environment and / or a virtual object.
[0260] The display screen may be positioned close to the user's eyes to allow the user to view the display screen. For example, the display screen may be located in front of the user's eyes. The display screen may output computer-generated images and / or virtual environments.
[0261] In some forms, the display screen is an electronic display. The display screen can be a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a light emitting diode (LED) screen.
[0262] In some forms, the display screen may include a backlight that can help illuminate the display screen. This may be particularly beneficial when viewing the display screen in a dark environment.
[0263] In some forms, the display screen may extend a wider distance between the user's pupils. The display screen may also be wider than the distance between the user's cheeks.
[0264] In some forms, the display screen can display at least one image observable by the user. For example, the display screen can display an image that changes based on predetermined conditions (e.g., the passage of time, the movement of the user, input from the user, etc.).
[0265] In some forms, a portion of the display screen may be visible to only one eye of the user. In other words, a portion of the display screen may be positioned near and in front of only one eye (e.g., right eye) of the user, while the sight of the other eye (e.g., left eye) is blocked.
[0266] In one example, a display screen may be divided into two sides (eg, a left side and a right side), and two images may be displayed at a time (eg, one image on each side).
[0267] Each side of the display screen can display a similar image. In some instances, the images can be the same, while in other instances, the images can be slightly different.
[0268] The two images on the display screen together can form a binocular display, which can provide a more realistic VR experience to the user. In other words, the user's brain can process the two images from the display screen 1220 together as a single image. Providing two (e.g., different) images can allow the user to view virtual objects in his or her periphery and expand his or her field of view in the virtual environment.
[0269] In some forms, the display screen can be positioned so that both eyes of the user can see it. The display screen can output a single image that can be seen by both eyes at once. This can simplify processing compared to a multi-image display screen.
[0270] Display housing
[0271] In such Figure 4A and Figure 4B In some forms of the technology shown, the display unit housing 1205 provides a support structure for the display screen so as to maintain the position of at least some components of the display screen relative to each other, and may additionally protect the display screen and / or other components of the head mounted display unit 1200. The display unit housing 1205 may be constructed of a material suitable for protecting the display screen from impact forces. The display unit housing 1205 may also contact the user's face and may be constructed of a biocompatible material suitable for limiting irritation to the user.
[0272] The display unit housing 1205 according to some forms of the present technology may be constructed from a hard, rigid or semi-rigid material such as plastic.
[0273] In some forms, the rigid or semi-rigid material may be at least partially covered with a soft and / or flexible material (e.g., fabric, silicone, etc.). This may improve biocompatibility and / or user comfort because at least a portion of the display unit housing 1205 that a user engages (e.g., grasps with their hand) includes a soft and / or flexible material.
[0274] Other forms of display unit housing 1205 according to the present technology may be made of soft, flexible, elastic materials (such as silicone rubber).
[0275] In some forms, the display unit housing 1205 may have a generally rectangular or generally oval profile.The display unit housing 1205 may have a three-dimensional shape having a generally rectangular or generally oval profile.
[0276] In some forms, the display unit housing 1205 may include an upper surface 1230, a lower surface 1232, a left side 1234, a right side 1236, and a front surface 1238. The display screen 1220 may be retained within the face during use.
[0277] In some forms, upper surface 1230 and lower surface 1232 may have substantially the same shape.
[0278] In one form, the upper surface 1230 and the lower surface 1232 may be substantially flat and extend along parallel planes (eg, substantially parallel to the Frankfurt horizontal plane in use).
[0279] In some forms, left side 1234 and right side 1236 may have substantially the same shape.
[0280] In one form, the left side 1234 and the right side 1236 can be curved and / or rounded between the upper surface 1230 and the lower surface 1232. The rounded and / or curved surfaces 1234, 1236 may be more comfortable for the user to grasp and hold when putting on and / or taking off the head mounted display system 1000.
[0281] In some forms, front surface 1238 may extend between upper surface 1230 and lower surface 1232. Front surface 1238 forms a front-most portion of head mounted display system 1000.
[0282] In one form, when the head mounted display system 1000 is worn by a user, the front surface 1238 can be a substantially planar surface and can be substantially parallel to the frontal plane.
[0283] In one form, the front surface 1238 may not have a corresponding opposing surface (e.g., a rear surface) that is substantially the same shape as the front surface 1238. The rear portion of the display unit housing 1205 may be at least partially open (e.g., recessed in a forward direction) to accommodate the user's face.
[0284] In some forms, the display screen is permanently integrated into the head mounted display system 1000. The display screen may be a device that is usable only as part of the head mounted display system 1000.
[0285] In some forms, the display unit housing 1205 may surround a display screen, which may protect the display screen and / or limit user interference with (e.g., removal and / or vandalism of) components of the display screen.
[0286] In some forms, the display screen may be substantially sealed within the display unit housing 1205 to limit the accumulation of dust or other debris on the surface of the display screen, which may adversely affect the user's ability to view images output by the display screen. Because the display screen cannot be removed from the display unit housing 1205, the user may not need to break the seal to access the display screen.
[0287] In some forms, the display screen is detachably integrated into the head mounted display system 1000. The display screen may be a device that is usable as a whole independently of the head mounted display system 1000. For example, the display screen may be provided on a smartphone or other portable electronic device.
[0288] In some forms, the display unit housing 1205 may include a compartment. A portion of the display screen may be removably housed within the compartment. For example, a user may removably position the display screen within the compartment. This may be useful if the display screen performs additional functions external to the head mounted display unit 1200 (e.g., is a portable electronic device such as a cell phone). Additionally, removing the display screen from the display unit housing 1205 may help a user clean and / or replace the display screen.
[0289] Some forms of display housings include an opening to the compartment, allowing a user to more easily insert and remove the display screen from the compartment. The display screen may be retained in the compartment by a friction engagement.
[0290] In some forms, the cover may selectively cover the compartment and may provide additional protection and / or security to display screen 1220 when display screen 1220 is located within the compartment.
[0291] In some forms, the compartment may be open on the upper surface. When the user wears the display interface, the display screen may be inserted into the compartment in a substantially vertical direction.
[0292] Interface connection structure
[0293] like Figure 4A and Figure 4B As shown, some forms of the present technology include an interface connection structure 1100 that is positioned and / or arranged to conform to the shape of a user's face and can provide increased comfort to the user when wearing and / or using the head-mounted display system 1000.
[0294] In some forms, the interfacing structure 1100 is coupled to a surface of the display unit housing 1205 .
[0295] In some forms, the interfacing structure 1100 may extend at least partially around the display unit housing 1205 and may form a viewing opening. In use, the viewing opening may at least partially accommodate the face of the user. Specifically, the user's eyes may be accommodated within the viewing opening formed by the interfacing structure 1100.
[0296] In some forms, an interfacing structure 1100 in accordance with the present technology may be constructed from biocompatible materials.
[0297] In some forms, an interfacing structure 1100 in accordance with the present technology may be comprised of a soft, flexible and / or elastic material.
[0298] In certain forms, an interfacing structure 1100 in accordance with the present technology may be constructed from silicone rubber and / or foam.
[0299] In some forms, the interface connection structure 1100 can contact sensitive areas of the user's face, which can be uncomfortable locations. The material forming the interface connection structure 1100 can cushion these sensitive areas and limit the discomfort felt by the user when wearing the head-mounted display system 1000.
[0300] In some forms, these sensitive areas may include the user's forehead. Specifically, this may include areas of the user's head near the frontal bone, such as the parietal muscles and / or the glabella. This area may be more sensitive because there is limited natural cushioning from muscle and / or fat between the user's skin and bones. Similarly, the user's nasal spine may also include little to no natural cushioning.
[0301] In some forms, the interfacing structure 1100 may comprise a single element. In some embodiments, the interfacing structure 1100 may be designed for mass production. For example, the interfacing structure 1100 may be designed to comfortably fit a wide range of different facial shapes and sizes.
[0302] In some forms, the interfacing structure 1100 may include different elements that cover different areas of the user's face. Different portions of the interfacing structure 1100 may be constructed of different materials and provide different textures and / or cushioning to the user in different areas.
[0303] Lens hood
[0304] Some forms of the head mounted display system 1000 may include a visor that may be constructed of an opaque material and that may block ambient light from reaching the user's eyes. The visor may be part of the interfacing structure 1100, or may be a separate element. In some instances, in addition to providing a comfortable contact portion for contact between the head mounted display 1200 and the user's face, the interfacing structure 1100 may also form a visor by shielding the user's eyes from ambient light. In some instances, the visor may be formed of multiple components that work together to block ambient light.
[0305] In some forms, the visor can block ambient light from reaching the eye area, and the visor can be formed on the parietal muscles, the area of the user's sphenoid bone, through the sphenoid bone to the outer cheek area between the left zygomatic arch or the right zygomatic arch, on the zygomatic arch, through the inner cheek area from the zygomatic arch toward the pterygoid ridge, and on the user's nasal ridge located below the nasal bridge point to enclose a portion of the user's face therebetween.
[0306] In one form, the visor may not contact the user's face around its entire perimeter. For example, the visor may be spaced from the user's nasal spine. The width of the space may be substantially small so as to substantially limit the entry of ambient light. However, the user's nasal spine may be sensitive and easily irritated. Therefore, avoiding direct contact with the user's nasal spine may improve the user's comfort when wearing the head mounted display system 1000.
[0307] In some forms, the visor may be part of the display unit housing 1205 and may be integrally or detachably coupled to the display unit housing 1205. In one form, if the display unit housing 1205 is usable with a display screen that outputs AR or MR and VR, the visor may be detachable from the display unit housing 1205 and coupled to the display unit housing 1205 only when VR is used.
[0308] Sealing structure
[0309] like Figure 4D As shown, in one form of the present technology, the interfacing structure 1100 acts as a seal-forming structure and provides a target seal-forming area. The target seal-forming area is the area on the seal-forming structure where sealing is likely to occur. The area where sealing actually occurs - the actual sealing surface - can vary over time and from user to user within a given treatment session, depending on a number of factors, including but not limited to the location where the display unit housing 1205 is placed on the face, the tension in the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, and / or the shape of the user's face.
[0310] In one form, the targeted seal formation area is located on an outer surface of the interfacing structure 1100 .
[0311] In some forms, the visor may form a seal-forming structure and seal against the user's face.
[0312] In some forms, the entire perimeter of the visor or interfacing structure 1100 can seal against the user's skin and can block ambient light from reaching the eye region. The eye region can be formed on the parietal muscles, the area of the user's sphenoid bone, through the sphenoid bone to the outer cheek area between the left or right zygomatic arch, on the zygomatic arch, through the inner cheek area from the zygomatic arch toward the pterygoid ridge, and on the user's nasal ridge below the nasal bridge point to enclose a portion of the user's face therebetween.
[0313] When used as a seal-forming structure, the light shield or interfacing structure 1100 can contact sensitive areas of the user's face, such as the user's nasal ridge. Such contact can completely prevent the entry of ambient light. The seal around the entire perimeter of the display unit housing 1205 can improve the performance of the head-mounted display system 1000. In addition, the biocompatible material can be selected so that direct contact with the user's nasal ridge does not significantly reduce the user's comfort when wearing the head-mounted display system 1000.
[0314] In some forms of the present technology, a system is provided that includes more than one interfacing structure 1100, each interfacing structure configured to correspond to a different range of sizes and / or shapes. For example, the system may include one form of interfacing structure 1100 that is suitable for large-sized heads but not for small-sized heads, and another form of interfacing structure 1100 that is suitable for small-sized heads but not for large-sized heads. The different interfacing structures 1100 may be removable and replaceable so that different users with different-sized heads can use the same head-mounted display system 1000.
[0315] In some forms, the seal-forming structure may be formed on the parietal muscles, the area of the user's sphenoid bone, the outer cheek area between the sphenoid bone to the left or right zygomatic arch, on the zygomatic arch, through the inner cheek area from the zygomatic arch toward the pterygoid ridge, and on the user's nasal ridge below the nasal bridge point to enclose a portion of the user's face therebetween. The defined area may be the eye area.
[0316] In some forms, this may form a seal around the user's eyes.The seal formed by the seal-forming structure or interfacing structure 1100 may form a light seal to limit ambient light from reaching the user's eyes.
[0317] Material biocompatibility
[0318] Biocompatible materials are considered to be materials that have been fully evaluated for their biological responses in accordance with ISO 10993-1, which are relevant to their safety in use. This evaluation takes into account the nature and duration of the expected contact with human tissue when used. In some forms of the present technology, the materials used in the positioning and stabilizing structures and the interfacing structures can be subjected to at least some of the following biocompatibility tests: Cytotoxicity - Elution Test (MeM Extract): ANSI / AAMI / ISO 10993-5; Skin Sensitization: ISO 10993-10; Irritation: ISO 10993-10; Genotoxicity - Bacterial Mutagenicity Test: ISO 10993-3; Implantation: ISO 10993-6.
[0319] Optical lens
[0320] like Figure 4B As shown, at least one lens 1240 can be disposed between the user's eyes and the display screen 1220. The user can view the image provided by the display screen 1220 through the lens 1240. The at least one lens 1240 can help to space the display screen 1220 from the user's face to limit eye fatigue. The at least one lens 1240 can also help to better observe the image displayed by the display screen 1220.
[0321] In some forms, lens 1240 is a Fresnel lens.
[0322] In some forms, lens 1240 may have a generally frustoconical shape. In use, the wider end of lens 1240 may be positioned proximate to display screen 1220, while the narrower end of lens 1240 may be positioned proximate to the user's eyes.
[0323] In some forms, lens 1240 may have a substantially cylindrical shape and, in use, may have substantially the same width near display screen 1220 and near the user's eye.
[0324] In some forms, at least one lens 1240 may also magnify an image on display screen 1220 to assist a user in viewing the image.
[0325] In some forms, the head mounted display system 1000 includes two lenses 1240 (e.g., a binocular display), one for each eye of the user. In other words, each eye of the user can see through a separate lens located in front of the corresponding pupil. Each lens 1240 can be identical, although in some instances one lens 1240 can be different from the other lens 1240 (e.g., having a different magnification).
[0326] In some forms, the display screen 1220 can output two images simultaneously. Each eye of the user may only see one of the two images. The images can be displayed side by side on the display screen 1220. Each lens 1240 allows each eye to view only the image closest to the corresponding eye. The user can view the two images together as a single image.
[0327] In some forms, the rear perimeter of each lens 1240 can approximate the size of the user's eye socket. The rear perimeter can be slightly larger than the size of the user's eye socket to ensure that the user's entire eye can see the corresponding lens 1240. For example, the outer edge of each lens 1240 can be aligned with the user's frontal bone in the upper direction (e.g., near the user's eyebrows), and can be aligned with the user's maxilla in the lower direction (e.g., near the outer cheek area).
[0328] The positioning and / or size of lenses 1240 may allow a user to have approximately 360° peripheral vision in a virtual environment in order to closely simulate the physical environment.
[0329] In some forms, the head mounted display system 1000 includes a single lens 1240 (e.g., a monocular display). The lens 1240 may be positioned in front of both eyes (e.g., so that both eyes view images from the display screen 1220 through the lens 1240), or may be positioned in front of only one eye (e.g., when images from the displacement screen 1220 are viewable by only one eye).
[0330] Lens installation
[0331] The lens 1240 may be coupled to a spacer positioned near the display screen 1220 (eg, between the display screen 1220 and the interfacing structure 1100) such that the lens 1240 is not in direct contact with the display screen 1220 (eg, so as to limit the lens 1240 from scratching the display screen 1220).
[0332] For example, the lens 1240 can be recessed relative to the interfacing structure 1100 so that the lens 1240 is disposed within the viewing opening. In use, each eye of the user is aligned with a corresponding lens 1240 when the user's face is received within the viewing opening (eg, an operating position).
[0333] In some forms, the front perimeter of each lens 1240 may surround approximately half of the display screen 1220. There may be a relatively small gap between the two lenses 1240 along the centerline of the display screen 1220. This may allow a user viewing through both lenses 1240 to be able to view substantially the entire display screen 1220 and all images output to the user.
[0334] In some forms, the center of the display screen 1220 (e.g., along the centerline between the two lenses 1240) may not output an image. For example, in a binocular display (e.g., where each side of the display screen 1220 outputs substantially the same image), each image may be spaced apart on the display screen 1220. This may allow the two lenses 1240 to be positioned in close proximity to the display screen 1220 while allowing the user to view the entire image displayed on the display screen 1220.
[0335] In some forms, a protective layer 1242 may be formed around at least a portion of the lens 1240. In use, the protective layer 1242 may be positioned between the user's face and the display screen 1220.
[0336] In some forms, a portion of each lens 1240 may protrude in a rearward direction through the protective layer 1242. For example, in use, the narrow end of each lens 1240 may protrude further rearward than the protective layer 1242.
[0337] In some forms, protective layer 1242 may be opaque so that light from display screen 1220 cannot pass through. In addition, a user may not be able to view display screen 1220 without viewing through lens 1240.
[0338] In some forms, the protective layer 1242 can be non-planar and can include a contour that substantially matches the contour of the user's face. For example, a portion of the protective layer 1242 can be recessed in the forward direction to accommodate the user's nose.
[0339] In some forms, the user may not contact the protective layer 1242 when wearing the head mounted display system 1000. This may help reduce irritation caused by additional contact with the user's face (e.g., against the sensitive nasal ridge area).
[0340] Corrective lenses
[0341] In some examples, an additional lens may be coupled to lens 1240 such that a user looks through both lens 1240 and the additional lens in order to view images output by display screen 1220 .
[0342] In some forms, in use, the additional lens is further back than lens 1240. Thus, the additional lens is positioned closer to the user's eye, and the user looks through the additional lens before looking through lens 1240.
[0343] In some forms, the additional lens may have a different magnification than lens 1240.
[0344] In some forms, the additional lenses may be prescription strength lenses. The additional lenses may allow a user to view display screen 1220 without glasses, which may be uncomfortable to wear when using head mounted display system 1000. The additional lenses may be removable so that a user who does not need the additional lenses can still clearly view display screen 1220.
[0345] Positioning and stabilizing structures
[0346] like Figure 4A and Figure 4B As shown, the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 of the head-mounted display system 1000 of the present technology can be held in place by the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 during use.
[0347] In order to keep the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 in its correct operating position, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is ideally comfortable relative to the user's head so as to accommodate the load caused by the weight of the display unit in a manner that minimizes facial marks and / or pain caused by prolonged use. It is also necessary to achieve a universal fit without sacrificing comfort, usability, and manufacturing costs. Design criteria may include adjustability within a predetermined range, and a low-touch, simple setup solution with a low dexterity threshold. Further considerations include catering to the dynamic environment in which the head-mounted display system 1000 can be used. As part of the immersive experience of the virtual environment, the user can communicate, i.e., speak, while using the head-mounted display system 1000. In this way, the user's jaw or mandible can move relative to other bones of the skull. In addition, the entire head can move during the use period of the head-mounted display system 1000. For example, movement of the user's upper body, in some cases movement of the lower body, and particularly movement of the head relative to the upper and lower bodies.
[0348] In one form, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 provides a retaining force to overcome the effects of gravity on the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 .
[0349] In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is provided that is configured in a manner consistent with a comfortable fit for a user. In one example, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 has a low profile or cross-sectional thickness to reduce the perceived or actual bulk of the device. In one example, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes at least one strip having a rectangular cross-section. In one example, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes at least one flat strip.
[0350] In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is provided that is configured so as not to be too bulky and cumbersome so as not to prevent a user from comfortably moving their head from side to side.
[0351] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 comprises a belt comprised of a laminate of a fabric user contacting layer, a foam inner layer, and a fabric outer layer. In one form, the foam is porous to allow moisture (e.g., sweat) to pass through the belt. In one form, the skin contacting layer of the belt is formed of a material that helps wick moisture away from the user's face. In one form, the fabric outer layer comprises a loop material for engaging with a hook material portion.
[0352] In some forms of the present technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes an extendable strap, such as an elastically extendable strap. For example, the strap can be configured to be in tension during use and direct a force to pull the display screen 1220 and / or display unit housing 1205 toward a portion of the user's face, particularly near the user's eyes and in line with their field of vision. In one example, the strap can be configured as a tie strap.
[0353] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 comprises a first strap constructed and arranged such that, in use, at least a portion of its lower edge passes above the supra-auricular base of the user's head and covers a portion of the parietal bone without covering the occipital bone.
[0354] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 includes a second strap which is constructed and arranged such that, in use, at least a portion of its upper edge passes below the subauricular base of the user's head and covers or is located below the occipital bone of the user's head.
[0355] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 includes a third strap constructed and arranged to interconnect the first strap and the second strap to reduce the tendency of the first strap and the second strap to separate from each other.
[0356] In some forms of the present technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 comprises a flexible and, for example, non-rigid band. An advantage of this aspect is that the band fits more comfortably on the user's head.
[0357] In some forms of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 comprises a belt that is configured to be breathable to allow moisture to pass through the belt.
[0358] In some forms of the present technology, a system is provided that includes more than one positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, each positioning and stabilizing structure configured to provide a retention force corresponding to a different range of sizes and / or shapes. For example, a system may include one form of positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 that is suitable for large sized heads but not for small sized heads, and another form of positioning and stabilizing structure that is suitable for small sized heads but not for large sized heads.
[0359] In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include a cushioning material (e.g., a foam pad) for contacting the user's skin. The cushioning material may provide additional wear resistance to the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, particularly if the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is constructed of a rigid or semi-rigid material.
[0360] Temporal connector
[0361] like Figure 4C As shown, some forms of the head mounted display system 1000 or positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 include a temporal connector 1250 or arm, each of which can cover a corresponding one of the user's temporal bones in use. A portion of the temporal connector 1250 contacts an area of the user's head near the supraauricular base point (i.e., above each ear of the user) in use. In some examples, the temporal connector is a band portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. In other examples, the temporal connector is an arm of the head mounted display unit 1200. In some examples, the temporal connector of the head mounted display system 1000 can be formed in part by a band portion (e.g., outer band portion 1330) of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and in part by an arm 1210 of the head mounted display unit 1200.
[0362] The temporal connectors 1250 may be outer portions of the positioning and stabilising structure 1300, as each temporal connector 1250 is located on the left or right side of the user's head.
[0363] In some forms, the temporal connector 1250 can extend in the anterior-posterior direction and can be substantially parallel to the sagittal plane.
[0364] In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may be coupled to the display unit housing 1205. For example, the temporal connectors 1250 may be connected to a side of the display unit housing 1205. For example, each temporal connector 1250 may be coupled to a respective one of the left side 1234 and the right side 1236.
[0365] In some forms, the temple connectors 1250 can be pivotally connected to the display unit housing 1205 and can provide relative rotation between each temple connector 1250 and the display unit housing 1205.
[0366] In some forms, the temple connector 1250 may be removably connected to the display unit housing 1205 (eg, via magnets, mechanical fasteners, hook and loop material, etc.).
[0367] In some forms, the temporal connector 1250 may be arranged, in use, to extend generally along or parallel to the Frankfurt horizontal plane of the head and above the zygomatic bone (e.g., above the cheekbone of the user).
[0368] In some forms, the temple connector 1250 may be positioned against the user's head similar to the arms of eyeglasses and positioned higher than the anti-helix of each respective ear.
[0369] In some forms, the temporal connector 1250 can have a generally elongated and flat configuration. In other words, the length and width (from top to bottom in the paper plane) of each temporal connector 1250 are much greater than the thickness (into the paper plane).
[0370] In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may each have a three-dimensional shape having curvature in all three axes (X, Y, and Z). While the thickness of each temporal connector 1250 may be substantially uniform, its height varies throughout its length. The shape and size of each temporal connector 1250 is intended to conform closely to the user's head so as to remain unobtrusive and maintain a low profile (e.g., not appear overly bulky).
[0371] In some forms, the temporal connector 1250 can be made of a rigid or semi-rigid material, which may include plastic, hytrel (thermoplastic polyester elastomer), or other similar materials. The rigid or semi-rigid material can be self-supporting and / or able to maintain its shape without being worn. This can make it more intuitive or obvious for the user to understand how to use the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, and can be contrasted with a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 that is completely soft and does not maintain its shape. Keeping the temporal connector 1250 in a use state before use can prevent or limit deformation when the user wears the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, and allow the user to quickly assemble or wear the head-mounted display system 1000.
[0372] In some forms, the temporal connector 1250 may be a rigid member, which may allow for more efficient (eg, direct) transmission of tension through the temporal connector 1250 because the rigid member limits the extent of elongation or deformation of the arm during use.
[0373] In some forms, the temporal connector 1250 may be at least partially flexible in one direction and more rigid in another direction. The user may be able to bend or flex the temporal connector more in one direction than in another direction. For example, the temporal connector 1250 may be at least partially flexible along an axis substantially parallel to the user's sagittal plane (e.g., in the up-and-down direction when in use). This may allow the temporal connector 1250 to conform to the shape of the user's head by moving in a lateral direction toward or away from the user's head. The user may also be able to make multiple adjustments along the length of the temporal connector 1250 to correspond to various structures along the user's head. However, bending along an axis substantially parallel to the user's coronal plane (e.g., extending in the lateral direction when in use) may be more difficult. The temporal connector 1250 may resist bending in the up-and-down direction.
[0374] In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 can be designed so that the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is ready to use "out of the box" and generally into its use configuration. Additionally, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 can be arranged to retain its shape in use once out of the box (e.g., because a rigid member can be formed to retain the shape of some or part of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300). Advantageously, because the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is generally arc-shaped, closely resembling the back of a user's head, the user can clearly understand the orientation of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. That is, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is generally dome-shaped.
[0375] In some forms, a flexible and / or elastic material may be disposed around the rigid or semi-rigid material of the temporal connector 1250. The flexible material may fit more comfortably against the user's head to improve wear resistance and provide soft contact with the user's face. In one form, the flexible material is a fabric sleeve that is permanently or removably coupled to each temporal connector 1250.
[0376] In one form, the fabric may be overmolded onto at least one side of the rigidizer. In one form, the rigidizer may be formed separately from the elastic component and then the user contacts the material (e.g., Breath-O-Prene TM ) can be wrapped or slipped over the rigid member. In alternative forms, the user contact material can be provided to the rigid member by adhesive, ultrasonic welding, stitching, hook and loop material and / or bolt connectors.
[0377] In some forms, the user contacting material may be on both sides of the rigid member, or alternatively may be only on the user contacting side of the rigid member (eg, the user contacting side) to reduce material bulk and cost.
[0378] In some forms, the temporal connector 1250 is comprised of a flexible material (eg, fabric) that may sit comfortably against the user's skin and may not require added layers to increase comfort.
[0379] Rear support part
[0380] like Figure 4C As shown, some forms of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include a rear support portion 1350 for auxiliary support of the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 (eg, Figure 4B The rear support portion 1350 can help anchor the display screen and / or display unit housing 1205 to the user's head so that the display screen is properly oriented close to the user's eyes.
[0381] In some forms, rear support portion 1350 may be coupled to display unit housing 1205 via temple connector 1250 .
[0382] In some forms, the temple connector 1250 may be directly coupled to the display unit housing 1205 and the rear support portion 1350 .
[0383] In some forms, the rear support portion 1350 can have a three-dimensional contour curve to fit the shape of the user's head. For example, the three-dimensional shape of the rear support portion 1350 can have a generally circular three-dimensional shape that is suitable for covering a portion of the parietal and occipital bones of the user's head in use.
[0384] In certain forms, rear support portion 1350 may include upper section 1310 and lower section 1320. Upper section 1310 and lower section 1320 may be continuous and form a circular shape (eg, circular, oval, etc.) of the rear support portion.
[0385] In some forms, the rear support portion 1350 can be at least partially rigidified so that the circular shape can be maintained even when the user is not wearing it. This can help the user wear the rear support portion 1350 because the rigidity can limit tangling.
[0386] In one form, the rigidity can provide "springiness" to the rear support portion 1350. For example, the rear support portion 1350 can "bounce" after being compressed. In other words, the rear support portion 1350 can be flexible enough to be folded, but once the force is removed, the rear support portion 1350 returns to its original shape (e.g., a three-dimensional circular shape).
[0387] In some forms, the rear support portion 1350 may be a rear portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. The rear support portion 1350 may provide an anchoring force that is at least partially directed in a forward direction.
[0388] In some forms, the lower section 1320 of the rear support portion 1350 is the lowermost portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, the rear support portion 1350 can contact the area of the user's head between the occipital bone and the trapezius muscles. The rear support portion 1350 can hook the lower edge of the occipital bone (e.g., the back of the head). The rear support portion 1350 can provide a force directed in an upward and / or forward direction to maintain contact with the back of the user's head.
[0389] In some forms, the lower section 1320 of the rear support portion 1350 is the lowest portion of the entire head mounted display system 1000. For example, the rear support portion 1350 can be positioned at the base of the user's neck (e.g., covering the occipital bone and trapezius muscles lower than the user's eyes), such that the rear support portion 1350 is lower than the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205.
[0390] In some forms, when in contact with the user's head, upper section 1310 can cover the parietal bones. The rounded shape of rear support portion 1350 can allow rear support portion 1350 to lie substantially flat on the user's head while lower section 1320 contacts the user's head as described above.
[0391] In some forms, the rear support portion 1350 can include padding material that can contact the user's head (e.g., covering the area between the occipital bone and the trapezius muscles). The padding material can provide additional comfort to the user and limit the marks caused by the rear support portion 1350 pulling on the user's head.
[0392] In some forms, the rear support portion 1350 can be constructed of a fabric material and / or a foam material. These materials can be biocompatible and comfortable for the user's head.
[0393] In one form, the rear support portion 1350 can be made of a foam material that is at least partially covered by a fabric material. The outer fabric material can provide a comfortable feel against the user's skin. The inner foam layer can allow the rear support portion 1350 to compress and improve comfort.
[0394] Forehead support
[0395] Some versions of the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 may include a forehead support or forehead support portion 1360 which is configured to contact the user's head above the user's eyes when in use. Figure 5B The positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 shown includes a forehead support 1360. In some examples, Figure 4AThe illustrated positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include a forehead support 1360. The forehead support 1360 may cover the frontal bone of the user's head. In some forms, the forehead support 1360 may also be higher than the sphenoid bone and / or the temporal bone. This may also position the forehead support 1360 higher than the user's eyebrows.
[0396] In some forms, forehead support 1360 may be a front portion of positioning and stabilising structure 1300 and may be disposed more anteriorly on the user's head than any other portion of positioning and stabilising structure 1300. Rear support portion 1350 may provide a force at least partially directed in a rearward direction.
[0397] In some forms, forehead support 1360 may include a cushioning material (e.g., fabric, foam, silicone, etc.) that may contact the user and may help limit marking caused by the straps of positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. Forehead support 1360 and interfacing structure 1100 may work together to provide comfort to the user.
[0398] In some forms, forehead support 1360 may be separate from display unit housing 1205 and may contact the user's head at a different location than display unit housing 1205 (e.g., a higher position).
[0399] In some versions, forehead support 1360 may be adjustable to allow positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 to adapt to the shape and / or configuration of a user's face.
[0400] In some forms, the temporal connector 1250 may be coupled to the forehead support 1360 (eg, at a side of the forehead support 1360 ). The temporal connector 1250 may extend at least partially downwardly so as to couple to the rear support portion 1350 .
[0401] In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include multiple pairs of temporal connectors 1250. For example, a pair of temporal connectors 1250 may be coupled to the forehead support 1360, and a pair of temporal connectors 1250 may be coupled to the display unit housing 1205.
[0402] In some forms, forehead support 1360 can be presented at an angle generally parallel to the user's forehead to provide improved comfort to the user. For example, forehead support 1360 can position the user in an orientation that covers the frontal bone and is substantially parallel to the coronal plane. Positioning the forehead support substantially parallel to the coronal plane can reduce the likelihood of pressure sores due to unevenness.
[0403] In some forms, the forehead support 1360 can be offset from the rear support or rear support portion that contacts the user's head rear area (e.g., the area covering the occipital bone and trapezius muscle). In other words, the axis along the rear band will not intersect with the forehead support 1360, and the forehead support 1360 can be arranged to be lower and more forward than the axis along the rear band. The offset generated between the forehead support 1360 and the rear band can generate a moment of force against the gravity of the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205. A larger offset can generate a larger moment of force, and therefore is more helpful to maintain the correct position of the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205. The offset can be increased by moving the forehead support 1360 closer to the user's eyes (e.g., more forward and lower along the user's head), and / or increasing the angle of the rear band to make it more vertical.
[0404] In some versions, forehead support 1360 may be constructed of a compressible material that may provide support to the user during use.
[0405] In some forms, forehead support 1360 can be constructed of silicone, foam, and / or fabric. For example, fabric can be used in combination with silicone or foam, although any material can be used independently. When used together, the fabric can be the outer layer of forehead support 1360 and can contact the user's head. The foam and / or silicone can be the inner layer that compresses when forehead support 1360 is under tension on the user's head.
[0406] Adjustable strap
[0407] like Figure 4C As shown, portions of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may be adjustable to apply selective tensile forces on the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 to secure the position of the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 .
[0408] In some forms, the display unit housing 1205 may include at least one ring or eyelet 1254 (e.g., Figure 4B 1254) and at least one of the temporal connectors 1250 can be passed through the loop and folded back on itself. The length of the temporal connector 1250 passed through the corresponding eyelet 1254 can be selected by the user to adjust the tension provided by the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, passing a greater length of the temporal connector 1250 through the eyelet 1254 can provide greater tension.
[0409] In some forms, at least one of the temporal connectors 1250 may include an adjustment portion 1256 and a receiving portion 1258 (eg, Figure 4C1254 on the display unit housing 1205 and can be coupled to the receiving portion 1258 (e.g., by folding back on itself). The adjustment portion 1256 can include a hook material and the receiving portion 1258 can include a loop material (or vice versa) so that the adjustment portion 1256 can be removably retained in a desired position. In some examples, the hook material and the loop material can be Velcro.
[0410] In some forms, adjusting the position of the adjustment portion 1256 relative to the receiving portion 1258 can apply a rearward force to the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 and increase or decrease the sealing force of the hood against the user's head (e.g., when the hood is used as a seal-forming structure).
[0411] In some forms, the adjustment portion 1256 can be constructed of a flexible and / or elastic material that can conform to the shape of the user's head and / or can allow the adjustment portion to pass through the eyelet 1254. For example, the adjustment portion 1256 can be constructed of an elastic fabric that can provide elastic stretch. The remainder of the temporal connector 1250 can be constructed of the rigid or semi-rigid materials described above (although it is contemplated that additional sections of the temporal connector 1250 can also be constructed of flexible materials).
[0412] Top band
[0413] In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include a top strap portion that covers an upper region of a user's head. Figure 1A The illustrated head mounted display system 1000 has a top strap portion.
[0414] In some forms, the top strap portion may extend between a front portion of the head mounted display system 1000 and a rear region of the head mounted display system 1000 .
[0415] In some forms, the top strap portion may be constructed of a flexible material and may be configured to conform to the shape of a user's head.
[0416] In some forms, the top strap portion may be connected to the display unit housing 1205. For example, the top strap portion may be coupled to the upper surface 1230. The top strap portion may also be coupled to the display unit housing 1205 near its rear end.
[0417] In some forms, the top strap portion can be coupled to the forehead support 1360. For example, the top strap portion can be coupled to the forehead support 1360 near the upper edge. The top strap portion can be connected to the display unit housing 1205 through the forehead support 1360.
[0418] In some forms, the top strap portion may be connected to the rear support portion 1350. For example, the top strap portion may be connected to the rear support portion 1350 near its upper edge.
[0419] In some forms, the top strap portion may cover the frontal and parietal bones of the user's head.
[0420] In some forms, the top strap portion may extend along a sagittal plane as it extends between the front and rear portions of the head mounted display system 1000.
[0421] In some forms, the top strap portion may apply a tensile force that is at least partially directed in an upward direction, which may counteract the force of gravity.
[0422] In some forms, the top strap portion can apply a tensile force that is at least partially directed in a posterior direction which can pull the interfacing structure 1100 toward the user's face (and provide a portion of the sealing force when the visor acts as a seal-forming structure).
[0423] In some forms, the top strap portion may be adjustable to apply a selective tension force on the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 to secure the position of the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 .
[0424] In some forms, the display unit housing 1205 and / or the forehead support 1360 (as appropriate) may include at least one loop or eyelet 1254, and the top strap portion may be passed through the eyelet 1254 and folded back on itself. The length of the top strap portion that passes through the eyelet 1254 may be selected by the user in order to adjust the tension provided by the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, passing a greater length of the top strap portion through the eyelet 1254 may provide greater tension.
[0425] In some forms, the top strap portion may include an adjustment portion and a receiving portion. The adjustment portion may be positioned through eyelet 1254 and may be coupled to the receiving portion (e.g., by folding back on itself). The adjustment portion may include a hook material and the receiving portion may include a loop material (or vice versa) such that the adjustment portion may be removably retained in a desired position. In some examples, the hook material and the loop material may be Velcro.
[0426] Rotary Controls
[0427] In some forms, the display unit housing 1205 and / or the display screen 1220 can be pivoted relative to the user's face while the user is already wearing the positioning and stabilizing structure. This can allow the user to see the physical environment while still wearing the user interface 1000. This may be useful for users who want to take a break from viewing the virtual environment but do not want to take off the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300.
[0428] like Figure 5A As shown, some versions of the user interface 1000 may include a pivot and / or flexible connection 1260 formed between the end of the arm 1210 and the rear support portion 1350. The arm 1210 may pivot and / or bend relative to the rear support portion 1350 together with the display unit housing 1205.
[0429] In some forms, forehead support 1360 (see, e.g., Figure 5B ) can provide a stop for the display unit housing 1205 and limit further rotation.
[0430] In some forms, the thickness of the forehead support 1360 can be less than the distance between the rear surface of the display unit housing 1205 and the user's head. Therefore, the display unit housing can rotate freely on the forehead support 1360 with limited or no interference.
[0431] In one form, the display unit housing 1205 can be rotated approximately 90° between the operative position and the non-operative position. Figure 5B The operating position is illustrated, and the user can rotate the display unit housing up to about 90° (e.g., so that the display unit housing 1205 is positioned on top of the user's head).
[0432] In some forms, the pivot connection 1260 may be formed between an upper portion of the display unit housing 1205 and the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, the pivot connection 1260 may be formed on the upper surface 1230 of the display unit housing 1205 (see, e.g., Figure 4A ).
[0433] In some forms, the pivot and / or flexible connection 1260 may allow the interfacing structure 1100 to remain in place when the display unit housing is pivoted away from the operative position.
[0434] In some forms, the pivot connection 1260 can be coupled to the forehead support 1360. The display unit housing 1205 can be pivotable about a lower edge of the forehead support 1360.
[0435] In one form, the temple connector 1250 may be coupled to the forehead support 1360 to allow the display unit housing 1205 to pivot.
[0436] In some forms, pivot connection 1260 may be a ratcheting connection and may maintain display unit housing 1205 in a raised position without additional user intervention.
[0437] In some forms, the pivot and / or flexible connection 1260 can rotate through an unlimited number of positions. The pivot connection 1260 can include a lock (e.g., a button) that selectively holds the display unit housing 1205 in one or more desired positions (e.g., 2 to 5 settings).
[0438] Controller
[0439] like Figure 6 As shown, some forms of the head mounted display system 1000 include a controller 1270 that can be engaged by a user to provide user input to the virtual environment and / or control the operation of the head mounted display system 1000. The controller 1270 can be connected to the head mounted display unit 1200 and provide the user with the ability to interact with virtual objects output to the user from the head mounted display unit 1200.
[0440] Handheld Controller
[0441] In some forms, controller 1270 may comprise a handheld device and may be easily grasped by a user with a single hand.
[0442] In some forms, the head mounted display system 1000 may include two handheld controllers. The handheld controllers may be substantially identical to each other, and each handheld controller may be actuated by a respective one of the user's hands.
[0443] In some forms, a user may interact with a handheld controller to control and / or interact with virtual objects in a virtual environment.
[0444] In some forms, the handheld controller includes at least one button actuatable by a user. The user's fingers may be able to press the button while grasping the handheld controller.
[0445] In some forms, the handheld controller may include a directional control (e.g., a joystick, a control pad, etc.) The user's thumb may be able to engage the directional control while grasping the handheld controller.
[0446] In some forms, the controller 1270 may be wirelessly connected to the head mounted display unit 1200. For example, the controller 1270 and the head mounted display unit 1200 may be connected via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or any similar means.
[0447] In some forms, the controller 1270 and the head mounted display unit 1200 may be connected via a wired connection. The wired connection may provide power to the controller 1270.
[0448] Fixed controller
[0449] In some forms, at least a portion of the controller 1270 may be integrally formed on the display unit housing 1205 .
[0450] In some forms, the controller 1270 may include control buttons integrally formed on the display unit housing 1205. For example, the control buttons may be formed on the upper surface 1230 and / or the lower surface 1232 so as to be engageable by the user's fingers when the user's palm is placed against the left side 1234 or the right side 1236 of the display unit housing 1205. The control buttons may also be provided on other surfaces of the display unit housing 1205.
[0451] In some forms, a user may interact with the control button to control at least one operation of the head mounted display system 1000. For example, the control button may be an on / off button that selectively controls whether the display screen 1220 outputs an image to the user.
[0452] In some forms, the control buttons may provide other functionality, such as brightness control on the display screen 1220 and / or volume control on a speaker 1272 disposed in the display unit housing 1205.
[0453] In some forms, the control buttons and head mounted display unit 1200 may be connected via a wired connection.
[0454] In some forms, head mounted display system 1000 may include both a handheld controller and control buttons.
[0455] speaker
[0456] refer to Figure 6 In some forms, the head mounted display system 1000 includes a sound system or speaker 1272 that may be connected to the head mounted display unit 1200 and may be positioned proximate to the user's ears to provide auditory output to the user.
[0457] In some forms, the speaker 1272 can be positioned around the user's ear and can block or limit the user from hearing ambient noise. For example, the speaker can be formed like an earmuff.
[0458] In some forms, each of the speakers 1272 may be connected to one of the pair of arms 1210. This may be a permanent connection or a removable connection.
[0459] In some forms, the speaker 1272 can be an ear bud and fit inside the user's ear. The ear bud can be used only with the head mounted display unit 1200, or they can be standard ear buds used with other electronic devices (e.g., smart phones).
[0460] In some forms, the speaker 1272 can be wirelessly connected to the head mounted display unit 1200. For example, the speaker 1272 and the head mounted display unit 1200 can be connected via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or any similar means.
[0461] In some forms, speaker 1272 includes a left ear transducer and a right ear transducer. In some forms, the left ear transducer and the right ear transducer can output different signals so that the volume and / or noise heard by the user in one ear (e.g., left ear) can be different from the volume and / or noise heard by the user in the other ear (e.g., right ear).
[0462] In some forms, controller 1270 may be used to control speaker 1272 (eg, the volume of speaker 1272).
[0463] power supply
[0464] refer to Figure 6 , some forms of the head-mounted display system 1000 may include a power supply 1274 that can provide power to the head-mounted display unit 1200 and any other electrical components of the head-mounted display system 1000.
[0465] In some forms, the power supply 1274 may include a wired electrical connection that can be connected to an external power source (e.g., a wall outlet, a computer, etc.), which can be fixed to a particular location.
[0466] In some forms, the power source 1274 may include a portable battery that can provide power to the head mounted display unit 1200. The portable battery may allow the user to have greater mobility compared to a wired electrical connection. The portable battery may be replaceable and / or rechargeable.
[0467] In some forms, head mounted display system 1000 and / or other electronic components of head mounted display system 1000 may include internal batteries and may be used without power source 1274.
[0468] In one form, the head mounted display system 1000 may be powered by a portable battery or an external power source, and the user may selectively choose which type of power source to use.
[0469] In some forms, the head mounted display system 1000 may include a power source 1274 in a location remote from the head mounted display unit 1200. Wires may extend from the remote location to the display unit housing 1205 to electrically connect the power source 1274 to the head mounted display unit 1200.
[0470] In some forms, the power supply 1274 can be coupled to the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, the power supply 1274 can be permanently or removably coupled to a strap of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. The power supply 1274 can be coupled to a rear portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 so that it can be generally opposite the display unit housing 1205 and / or the head mounted display unit 1200. Thus, the weight of the power supply 1274, as well as the weight of the head mounted display unit 1200 and the display unit housing 1205, can be spread throughout the head mounted display system 1000, rather than being concentrated in the front portion of the head mounted display system 1000. Shifting the weight to the rear portion of the head mounted display system 1000 can limit the moments generated on the user's face, which can improve comfort and allow the user to wear the head mounted display system 1000 for longer periods of time.
[0471] In some forms, the power supply 1274 can be supported by the user away from the user's head. For example, the power supply 1274 can be connected to the head mounted display unit 1200 and / or the display unit housing 1205 only by an electrical connector (e.g., a wire). The power supply 1274 can be stored in the user's pants pocket, on a belt clip, or in a similar manner to support the weight of the power supply 1274. This eliminates the need to support weight on the user's head and can make wearing the head mounted display system 1000 more comfortable for the user.
[0472] In some forms, the head mounted display unit 1200 may include a power source 1274. For example, the display unit 1200 may be a cell phone or other similar electronic device that includes an internal power source 1274.
[0473] Control System
[0474] refer to Figure 6 , some forms of the head mounted display system 1000 include a control system 1276 that helps control the output received by the user. Specifically, the control system 1276 can control the visual output from the display screen 1220 and / or the auditory output from the speaker 1272.
[0475] In some forms, control system 1276 may include sensors that monitor various parameters (eg, in the physical environment) and transmit the measured parameters to a processor. The output received by a user may be affected by the measured parameters.
[0476] In some forms, the control system 1276 is integrated into the head mounted display unit 1200. In other forms, the control system 1276 is housed in a control system support 1290 that is separate from the head mounted display unit 1200 but connected (e.g., electrically connected) to the head mounted display unit 1200.
[0477] power supply
[0478] In some forms, the control system 1276 may be powered by a power source 1274, which may be at least one battery for powering components of the control system 1276. For example, sensors of the control system 1276 may be powered by the power source 1274.
[0479] In some forms, at least one battery of the power source 1274 may be a low power system battery 1278 and a main battery 1280 .
[0480] In some forms, a low power system battery 1278 may be used to power a real time (RT) clock 1282 of the control system 1276 .
[0481] Integrated power supply support
[0482] In some forms, the battery support portion 1288 may support the low power system battery 1278 and / or the main battery 1280. The battery support portion 1288 may be supported directly on the head mounted display system 1000.
[0483] In some forms, the battery support portion 1288 can be disposed within the display unit housing 1205 .
[0484] In some forms, the battery support portion 1288 can be disposed on the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, the battery support portion 1288 can be coupled to the rear support portion 1350. The weight of the head mounted display system 1000 can be better balanced around the user's head. One form of the battery support portion 1288 is a battery pack housing, which will be described in more detail herein.
[0485] Remote power supply support part
[0486] In some forms, the battery support portion 1288 can support the low-power system battery 1278 and / or the main battery 1280. The battery support portion 1288 can be coupled to the user independently of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and / or the display unit housing 1205 (e.g., it can be coupled via a belt clip). The battery support portion 1288 can also be supported away from the user's body (e.g., if the head mounted display system 1000 receives power from a computer or video game console). A tether can couple the battery support portion 1288 to the control system 1276 and / or other electronics. The positioning of the battery support portion can improve user comfort because the weight of the low-power system battery 1278 and / or the main battery 1280 is not supported by the user's head.
[0487] Orientation sensor
[0488] In some forms, the control system 1276 includes an orientation sensor 1284 capable of sensing the orientation of the user's body. For example, the orientation sensor 1284 can sense when the user rotates their body as a whole, and / or rotates their head individually. In other words, the orientation sensor 1284 can measure the angular position of the user's body (or any similar parameter). By sensing the rotation, the sensor 1284 can communicate with the display screen 1220 to output a different image.
[0489] In some examples, external orientation sensors can be positioned in the physical environment where the user is wearing the head mounted display system 1000. The external position sensors can track the user's movements, similar to the orientation sensors 1284 described above. Using external orientation sensors can reduce the weight that the user needs to support.
[0490] camera
[0491] In some forms, the control system 1276 may include at least one camera that may be positioned to observe the user's physical environment.
[0492] In some forms, orientation sensor 1284 is a camera that can be configured to observe the user's physical environment in order to determine the orientation of the user's head (e.g., in which direction the user's head is tilted).
[0493] In some forms, orientation sensor 1284 comprises multiple cameras positioned throughout head mounted display system 1000 to provide a more complete view of the user's physical environment and to more accurately measure the orientation of the user's head.
[0494] In some forms, camera 1284 is coupled to front surface 1238 of display unit housing 1205. Camera 1284 may be positioned so as to provide a "first person" perspective.
[0495] In some forms, the display screen 1220 may display the user's physical environment through the use of the camera 1284 so that the user may feel as if they are viewing their physical environment without assistance from the head mounted display system 1000 (i.e., a first person perspective). This may allow the user to move around their physical environment without removing the head mounted display system 1000.
[0496] In one form, virtual objects may be displayed while the display screen 1220 is displaying the user's physical environment. The camera 1284 may allow the head mounted display system 1000 to operate as an MR device. The control system 1276 may include controls to switch operation between a VR device and an MR device.
[0497] Eye sensor
[0498] In some forms, the control system 1276 may include an eye sensor that can track the movement of the user's eyes. For example, the eye sensor may be able to measure the position of at least one eye of the user and determine which direction the at least one eye of the user is looking at.
[0499] In some forms, the control system 1276 may include two eye sensors. Each sensor may correspond to one eye of the user.
[0500] In some forms, the eye sensor may be disposed in or near lens 1240 .
[0501] In some forms, the eye sensor may measure the angular position of the user's ears in order to determine visual output from display screen 1220.
[0502] Processing system
[0503] In some forms, the control system 1276 includes a processing system that can receive measurements from various sensors of the control system 1276 .
[0504] In some forms, the processing system may receive measurements recorded by the orientation sensor 1284 and / or the eye sensor. Based on these measurements, the processor may communicate with the display screen 1220 to change the image being output. For example, if the user's eyes and / or the user's head are pivoted in an upward direction, the display screen 1220 may display a more upward portion of the virtual environment (e.g., in response to the direction from the processing system).
[0505] Augmented reality display interface
[0506] like Figure 5A and Figure 5BAs shown, a display device or head mounted display system 1000 according to one aspect of the present technology includes the following functional aspects: a display screen 1220, a display unit housing 1205, and a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. In some forms, the functional aspects may provide one or more physical components. In some forms, one or more physical components may provide one or more functional aspects. In use, the display screen 1220 is arranged to be positioned near and in front of the user's eyes, thereby allowing the user to view the display screen 1220.
[0507] In other aspects, the head mounted display system 1000 may also include an interface connection structure 1100, a controller 1270, a speaker 1272, a power supply 1274, and / or a control system 1276. In some instances, these may be integral to the head mounted display system 1000, while in other instances, these may be modular and incorporated into the head mounted display system 1000 as desired by the user.
[0508] Display unit
[0509] The head mounted display unit 1200 may include a structure for providing an observable output to a user. Specifically, the head mounted display unit 1200 is arranged to be maintained (eg, manually, by positioning and stabilizing structures, etc.) in an operating position in front of the user's face.
[0510] In some examples, the head mounted display unit 1200 may include a display screen 1220, a display unit housing 1205, and / or an interface connection structure 1100. These components may be integrally formed in a single head mounted display unit 1200, or they may be separable and selectively connected by a user to form the head mounted display unit 1200. In addition, the display screen 1220, the display unit housing 1205, and / or the interface connection structure 1100 may be included in the head mounted display system 1000, but may not be part of the head mounted display unit 1200.
[0511] Display
[0512] like Figure 5A As shown, some forms of head mounted display unit 1200 include display screen 1220. Display screen 1220 may include electrical components that provide observable output to a user.
[0513] exist Figure 5A and Figure 5B In one form of the technology shown, display screen 1220 provides an optical output observable by a user. The optical output allows the user to observe a virtual environment and / or virtual objects.
[0514] Display screen 1220 may be positioned proximate to the user's eyes to allow the user to view display screen 1220. For example, display screen 1220 may be located in front of the user's eyes. Display screen 1220 may display computer-generated images that may be viewed by the user to augment the user's physical environment (e.g., the computer-generated images may appear as if they exist in the user's physical environment).
[0515] In some forms, display screen 1220 is an electronic display. Display screen 1220 may be a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a light emitting diode (LED) screen.
[0516] In some forms, computer-generated images may be projected onto display screen 1220 .
[0517] In some forms, display screen 1220 may extend a wider distance between the user's pupils. Display screen 1220 may also be wider than the distance between the user's cheeks.
[0518] In some forms, display screen 1220 may display at least one image observable by a user. For example, display screen 1220 may display an image that changes based on predetermined conditions (e.g., passage of time, movement of the user, input from the user, etc.).
[0519] In some forms, a portion of the display screen 1220 may be visible to only one eye of the user. In other words, a portion of the display screen 1220 may be positioned near and in front of only one eye (e.g., right eye) of the user, and the view of the other eye (e.g., left eye) is blocked.
[0520] In one example, display screen 1220 may be divided into two sides (eg, a left side and a right side), and may display two images at a time (eg, one image on each side).
[0521] Each side of display screen 1220 may display a similar image. In some instances, the images may be the same, while in other instances, the images may be slightly different.
[0522] The two images on the display screen 1220 together can form a binocular display, which can provide a more realistic AR or MR experience to the user. In other words, the user's brain can process the two images from the display screen 1220 together as a single image. Providing two (e.g., different) images can allow the user to view virtual objects in his or her periphery and expand his or her field of view in the virtual environment.
[0523] In some forms, the display screen 1220 can be positioned so that both eyes of the user can see it. The display screen 1220 can output a single image that both eyes can see at once. Compared with the multi-image display screen 1220, this can simplify processing.
[0524] In some forms, the head mounted display system 1000 includes a single lens 1240 (e.g., a monocular display). The lens 1240 may be positioned in front of both eyes (e.g., so that both eyes view images from the display screen 1220 through the lens 1240), or may be positioned in front of only one eye (e.g., when images from the displacement screen 1220 are viewable by only one eye). This may be particularly useful in AR or MR, where the user may want limited virtual stimulation and may wish to view the physical environment without overlaid virtual objects.
[0525] In some forms, particularly when display screen 1220 is used in an AR or MR environment, display screen 1220 may be turned off while the user continues to wear display screen 1220 and interact with the physical environment. This may allow the user to selectively choose when to receive virtual stimuli and when to only observe the physical environment.
[0526] In some forms, the display screen 1220 may be transparent (or translucent). For example, the display screen 1220 may be glass so that the user can see through the display screen 1220. This may be particularly beneficial in AR or MR applications so that the user can continue to see the physical environment.
[0527] Optical lens
[0528] like Figure 5A As shown, display screen 1220 may be disposed within lens 1240. A user may view images provided by display screen 1220 through lens 1240. Lens 1240, along with display screen 1220, may be transparent and / or translucent such that a user may observe their physical environment while viewing through lens 1240. In some instances, a user may be able to observe (e.g., visually observe) their physical environment regardless of the presence or absence of a computer-generated image output by display screen 1220.
[0529] In some forms, the head mounted display system 1000 includes two lenses 1240, one for each eye of the user. In other words, each eye of the user can see through a separate lens located in front of the corresponding pupil. Each lens 1240 can be identical, although in some instances one lens 1240 can be different from the other lens 1240 (e.g., having a different magnification). For example, the lens 1240 can be a prescription lens 1240, and each eye of the user can have a different prescription.
[0530] In some forms, the display screen 1220 can output two images simultaneously. Each eye of the user may only see one of the two images. The images can be displayed side by side on the display screen 1220. Each lens 1240 allows each eye to view only the image closest to the corresponding eye. The user can view the two images together as a single image.
[0531] In some forms, each lens 1240 may include a separate display screen 1220 that outputs a different image. For example, a different computer-generated image may be displayed to the user's eyes.
[0532] In one form, the user can control both, one, or none of the display screens 1220 to be output simultaneously. This may be beneficial to the user if the user wishes to switch which eye is viewing the computer-generated image.
[0533] In some forms, the head mounted display system 1000 includes a single lens 1240 (e.g., a monocular display). The lens 1240 may be positioned in front of both eyes (e.g., so that both eyes view images from the display screen 1220 through the lens 1240), or may be positioned in front of only one eye (e.g., when images from the displacement screen 1220 are viewable by only one eye).
[0534] Display housing
[0535] In such Figure 5A and Figure 5B In some forms of the technology shown, the display unit housing 1205 provides a support structure for the display screen 1220 to maintain the position of at least some components of the display screen 1220 relative to each other, and may additionally protect the display screen 1220 and / or other components of the head mounted display unit 1200. The display unit housing 1205 may be constructed of a material suitable for protecting the display screen 1220 from impact forces. The display unit housing 1205 may also contact the user's face and may be constructed of a biocompatible material suitable for limiting irritation to the user.
[0536] The display unit housing 1205 according to some forms of the present technology may be constructed from a hard, rigid or semi-rigid material such as plastic.
[0537] In some forms, the rigid or semi-rigid material may be at least partially covered with a soft and / or flexible material (e.g., fabric, silicone, foam, etc.). This may improve biocompatibility and / or user comfort because at least a portion of the display unit housing 1205 that a user engages (e.g., grasps with their hand) includes a soft and / or flexible material.
[0538] Other forms of display unit housing 1205 according to the present technology may be made of soft, flexible, elastic materials (such as silicone rubber).
[0539] In some forms, the display screen 1220 may at least partially protrude from the display unit housing 1205. For example, unlike the VR head mounted display system 1000, the display screen 1220 in the AR (or MR) head mounted display system 1000 may not be completely surrounded by the display unit housing 1205. The user can view the display screen 1220 directly, and can view through the display screen 1220 (e.g., if the display screen 1220 is transparent or translucent).
[0540] In some forms, the display unit housing 1205 can support sensors or other electronic devices described below. The display unit housing 1205 can provide protection for the electronic devices without substantially obstructing the user's viewing of the display screen 1220.
[0541] Interface structure
[0542] like Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown, some forms of the present technology include an interface connection structure 1100 that is positioned and / or arranged to conform to the shape of a user's face and can provide increased comfort to the user when wearing and / or using the head-mounted display system 1000.
[0543] In some forms, the interfacing structure 1100 is coupled to a surface of the display unit housing 1205 .
[0544] In some forms, an interfacing structure 1100 in accordance with the present technology may be constructed from biocompatible materials.
[0545] In some forms, an interfacing structure 1100 in accordance with the present technology may be comprised of a soft, flexible and / or elastic material.
[0546] In certain forms, an interfacing structure 1100 in accordance with the present technology may be constructed from silicone rubber and / or foam.
[0547] In some forms, the interface connection structure 1100 can contact sensitive areas of the user's face, which can be uncomfortable locations. The material forming the interface connection structure 1100 can cushion these sensitive areas and limit the discomfort felt by the user when wearing the head-mounted display system 1000.
[0548] In some forms, these sensitive areas may include the user's forehead. Specifically, this may include areas of the user's head near the frontal bone, such as the parietal muscles and / or the glabella. This area may be more sensitive because there is limited natural cushioning from muscle and / or fat between the user's skin and bones. Similarly, the user's nasal spine may also include little to no natural cushioning.
[0549] In some forms, the interfacing structure 1100 may comprise a single element. In some embodiments, the interfacing structure 1100 may be designed for mass production. For example, the interfacing structure 1100 may be designed to comfortably fit a wide range of different facial shapes and sizes.
[0550] In some forms, the interfacing structure 1100 may include different elements that cover different areas of the user's face. Different portions of the interfacing structure 1100 may be constructed of different materials and provide different textures and / or cushioning to the user in different areas.
[0551] In some forms, the interface structure 1100 may include nose pads (e.g., nose pads used in glasses) that may contact the sides of the user's nose. The nose pads may apply slight pressure to the user's nose to maintain the position of the head mounted display system 1000, but the force applied may not cause noticeable discomfort (e.g., the nose pads may not be subject to a backward stretching force).
[0552] Positioning and stabilizing structures
[0553] like FIG. 5A to FIG. 5B As shown, the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 of the head-mounted display system 1000 of the present technology can be held in place by the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 during use.
[0554] In order to keep the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 in its correct operating position, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is ideally comfortable relative to the user's head so as to accommodate the load caused by the weight of the display unit in a manner that minimizes facial marks and / or pain caused by prolonged use. It is also necessary to achieve a universal fit without sacrificing comfort, usability, and manufacturing costs. Design criteria may include adjustability within a predetermined range, and a low-touch, simple setup solution with a low dexterity threshold. Further considerations include catering to the dynamic environment in which the head-mounted display system 1000 can be used. As part of the immersive experience of the virtual environment, the user can communicate, i.e., speak, while using the head-mounted display system 1000. In this way, the user's jaw or mandible can move relative to other bones of the skull. In addition, the entire head can move during the use period of the head-mounted display system 1000. For example, movement of the user's upper body, in some cases movement of the lower body, and particularly movement of the head relative to the upper and lower bodies.
[0555] In one form, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 provides a retaining force to overcome the effects of gravity on the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 .
[0556] In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is provided that is configured in a manner consistent with a comfortable fit for a user. In one example, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 has a low profile or cross-sectional thickness to reduce the perceived or actual bulk of the device. In one example, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes at least one strip having a rectangular cross-section. In one example, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes at least one flat strip.
[0557] In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is provided that is configured so as not to be too bulky and cumbersome so as not to prevent a user from comfortably moving their head from side to side.
[0558] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 comprises a belt comprised of a laminate of a fabric user contacting layer, a foam inner layer, and a fabric outer layer. In one form, the foam is porous to allow moisture (e.g., sweat) to pass through the belt. In one form, the skin contacting layer of the belt is formed of a material that helps wick moisture away from the user's face. In one form, the fabric outer layer comprises a loop material for engaging with a hook material portion.
[0559] In some forms of the present technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes an extendable strap, such as an elastically extendable strap. For example, the strap can be configured to be in tension during use and direct a force to pull the display screen 1220 and / or display unit housing 1205 toward a portion of the user's face, particularly near the user's eyes and in line with their field of vision. In one example, the strap can be configured as a tie strap.
[0560] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 comprises a first strap constructed and arranged such that, in use, at least a portion of its lower edge passes above the supra-auricular base of the user's head and covers a portion of the parietal bone without covering the occipital bone.
[0561] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 includes a second strap which is constructed and arranged such that, in use, at least a portion of its upper edge passes below the subauricular base of the user's head and covers or is located below the occipital bone of the user's head.
[0562] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 includes a third strap constructed and arranged to interconnect the first strap and the second strap to reduce the tendency of the first strap and the second strap to separate from each other.
[0563] In some forms of the present technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 comprises a flexible and, for example, non-rigid strap. An advantage of this aspect is that the strap fits more comfortably on the user's head.
[0564] In some forms of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 comprises a belt that is configured to be breathable to allow moisture to pass through the belt.
[0565] In some forms of the present technology, a system is provided that includes more than one positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, each positioning and stabilizing structure configured to provide a retention force corresponding to a different range of sizes and / or shapes. For example, a system may include one form of positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 that is suitable for large sized heads but not for small sized heads, and another form of positioning and stabilizing structure that is suitable for small sized heads but not for large sized heads.
[0566] In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include a cushioning material (e.g., a foam pad) for contacting the user's skin. The cushioning material may provide additional wear resistance to the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, particularly if the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is constructed of a rigid or semi-rigid material.
[0567] Temporal connector
[0568] like Figure 5BAs shown, some forms of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 include temporal connectors 1250, each of which can cover a corresponding one of the user's temporal bones in use. A portion of the temporal connector 1250 contacts an area of the user's head near the supra-auricular base (i.e., above each ear of the user) in use.
[0569] The temporal connectors 1250 may be outer portions of the positioning and stabilising structure 1300, as each temporal connector 1250 is located on the left or right side of the user's head.
[0570] In some forms, the temporal connector 1250 can extend in the anterior-posterior direction and can be substantially parallel to the sagittal plane.
[0571] In some forms, the temple connector 1250 may be coupled to the display unit housing 1205. For example, the temple connector 1250 may be connected to the side of the display unit housing 1205.
[0572] In some forms, the temporal connector 1250 may be arranged, in use, to extend generally along or parallel to the Frankfurt horizontal plane of the head and above the zygomatic bone (e.g., above the cheekbone of the user).
[0573] In some forms, the temple connector 1250 may be positioned against the user's head similar to the arms of eyeglasses and positioned higher than the anti-helix of each respective ear.
[0574] In some forms, the temporal connector 1250 can have a generally elongated and flat configuration. In other words, the length and width (from top to bottom in the paper plane) of each temporal connector 1250 are much greater than the thickness (into the paper plane).
[0575] In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may each have a three-dimensional shape having curvature in all three axes (X, Y, and Z). While the thickness of each temporal connector 1250 may be substantially uniform, its height varies throughout its length. The shape and size of each temporal connector 1250 is intended to conform closely to the user's head so as to remain unobtrusive and maintain a low profile (e.g., not appear overly bulky).
[0576] In some forms, the temporal connector 1250 can be made of a rigid or semi-rigid material, which may include plastic, nylon (thermoplastic polyester elastomer), or other similar materials. The rigid or semi-rigid material can be self-supporting and / or able to maintain its shape without being worn. This can make it more intuitive or obvious for the user to understand how to use the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, and can be contrasted with a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 that is completely soft and does not maintain its shape. Keeping the temporal connector 1250 in a use state before use can prevent or limit deformation when the user wears the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, and allow the user to quickly assemble or wear the head-mounted display system 1000.
[0577] In some forms, the temporal connector 1250 may be a rigid member, which may allow for more efficient (eg, direct) transmission of tension through the temporal connector 1250 because the rigid member limits the extent of elongation or deformation of the arm during use.
[0578] In some forms, the temporal connector 1250 may be at least partially flexible in one direction and more rigid in another direction. The user may be able to bend or flex the temporal connector more in one direction than in another direction. For example, the temporal connector 1250 may be at least partially flexible along an axis substantially parallel to the user's sagittal plane (e.g., in the up-and-down direction when in use). This may allow the temporal connector 1250 to conform to the shape of the user's head by moving in a lateral direction toward or away from the user's head. The user may also be able to make multiple adjustments along the length of the temporal connector 1250 to correspond to various structures along the user's head. However, bending along an axis substantially parallel to the user's coronal plane (e.g., extending in the lateral direction when in use) may be more difficult. The temporal connector 1250 may resist bending in the up-and-down direction.
[0579] In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 can be designed so that the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is ready to use "out of the box" and generally into its use configuration. Additionally, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 can be arranged to retain its shape in use once out of the box (e.g., because a rigid member can be formed to retain the shape of some or part of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300). Advantageously, because the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is generally arc-shaped, closely resembling the back of a user's head, the user can clearly understand the orientation of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. That is, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is generally dome-shaped.
[0580] In some forms, a flexible and / or elastic material may be disposed around the rigid or semi-rigid material of the temporal connector 1250. The flexible material may fit more comfortably against the user's head to improve wear resistance and provide soft contact with the user's face. In one form, the flexible material is a fabric sleeve that is permanently or removably coupled to each temporal connector 1250.
[0581] In one form, the fabric may be overmolded onto at least one side of the rigidizer. In one form, the rigidizer may be formed separately from the elastic component and then the user contacts the material (e.g., Breath-O-Prene TM ) can be wrapped or slipped over the rigid member. In alternative forms, the user contact material can be provided to the rigid member by adhesive, ultrasonic welding, stitching, hook and loop material and / or bolt connectors.
[0582] In some forms, the user contacting material may be on both sides of the rigid member, or alternatively may be only on the user contacting side of the rigid member (eg, the user contacting side) to reduce material bulk and cost.
[0583] In some forms, the temporal connector 1250 is comprised of a flexible material (eg, fabric) that may sit comfortably against the user's skin and may not require added layers to increase comfort.
[0584] Some versions of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include only the temporal connector 1250. The temporal connector 1250 may be shaped similarly to the shape of the temple or arm of eyeglasses and may rest against the user's head in a similar manner. For example, the temporal arm 1250 may provide a force directed toward the side of the user's head (e.g., toward the corresponding temporal bone).
[0585] Rear support part
[0586] like Figure 5B As shown, some forms of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include a rear support, such as a rear support portion 1350, for assisting in supporting the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 so that it is close to the user's eyes. The rear support portion 1350 can help secure the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 to the user's head so that the display screen 1220 is properly oriented close to the user's eyes.
[0587] In some forms, rear support portion 1350 may be coupled to display unit housing 1205 via temple connector 1250 .
[0588] In some forms, the temple connector 1250 may be directly coupled to the display unit housing 1205 and the rear support portion 1350 .
[0589] In some forms, the rear support portion 1350 can have a three-dimensional contour curve to fit the shape of the user's head. For example, the three-dimensional shape of the rear support portion 1350 can have a generally circular three-dimensional shape that is suitable for covering a portion of the parietal and occipital bones of the user's head in use.
[0590] In some forms, the rear support portion 1350 can include a three-dimensional shape that is curved about at least two axes. For example, a rearward portion of the rear support portion 1350 (e.g., a portion configured to cover the user's occipital bone) can include a concave shape relative to the user's occipital bone. This can help the rear support portion 1350 "cup" the back of the user's head to provide a secure fit. Additionally, the rear support portion 1350 can be curved about an axis that is substantially parallel to the user's coronal plane. For example, the second curvature can be about an axis that is substantially perpendicular to the axis of the first curvature (i.e., the section of the rear support that is configured to cover the user's occipital bone). The section having the second curvature can extend from the corresponding temporal connector 1250. Thus, the section can cover the user's temporal bone and / or the user's occipital bone. When viewed from the side (e.g., in Figure 5B ), the second curvature can be positive (e.g., "concave upward"). This can be opposite to the curvature in the temporal connector 1250, although these curvatures can be about substantially parallel axes. For example, the curvature of the temporal connector 1250 can be negative (e.g., "concave downward"), as shown in FIG. Figure 5B This can allow each temple connector 1250 to bend around the ear of a corresponding user.
[0591] In some forms, the rear support portion 1350 can be at least partially rigidified so that the circular shape can be maintained even when the user is not wearing it. This can help the user wear the rear support portion 1350 because the rigidity can limit tangling.
[0592] In one form, the rigidity can provide "springiness" to the rear support portion 1350. For example, the rear support portion 1350 can "bounce" after being compressed. In other words, the rear support portion 1350 can be flexible enough to be folded, but once the force is removed, the rear support portion 1350 returns to its original shape (e.g., a three-dimensional circular shape).
[0593] In some forms, the rear support portion 1350 may be a rear portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. The rear support portion 1350 may provide an anchoring force that is at least partially directed in a forward direction.
[0594] In some forms, the lower section 1320 of the rear support portion 1350 is the lowermost portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, the rear support portion 1350 can contact the area of the user's head between the occipital bone and the trapezius muscles. The rear support portion 1350 can hook the lower edge of the occipital bone (e.g., the back of the head). The rear support portion 1350 can provide a force directed in an upward and / or forward direction to maintain contact with the back of the user's head.
[0595] In some forms, the lower section 1320 of the rear support portion 1350 is the lowest portion of the entire head mounted display system 1000. For example, the rear support portion 1350 can be positioned at the base of the user's neck (e.g., covering the occipital bone and trapezius muscles lower than the user's eyes), such that the rear support portion 1350 is lower than the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205.
[0596] In some forms, when in contact with the user's head, upper section 1310 can cover the parietal bones. The rounded shape of rear support portion 1350 can allow rear support portion 1350 to lie substantially flat on the user's head while lower section 1320 contacts the user's head as described above.
[0597] In some forms, the rear support portion 1350 can include padding material that can contact the user's head (e.g., covering the area between the occipital bone and the trapezius muscles). The padding material can provide additional comfort to the user and limit the marks caused by the rear support portion 1350 pulling on the user's head.
[0598] In some forms, the rear support portion 1350 can be constructed of a fabric material and / or a foam material. These materials can be biocompatible and comfortable for the user's head.
[0599] In one form, the rear support portion 1350 can be made of a foam material that is at least partially covered by a fabric material. The outer fabric material can provide a comfortable feel against the user's skin. The inner foam layer can allow the rear support portion 1350 to compress and improve comfort.
[0600] Forehead support
[0601] like Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown, some forms of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include a forehead support 1360 that, when in use, may contact the user's head above the user's eyes. For example, the forehead support 1360 may cover the frontal bone of the user's head. In some forms, the forehead support 1360 may also be higher than the sphenoid bone and / or temporal bone. This may also position the forehead support 1360 higher than the user's eyebrows.
[0602] In some forms, forehead support 1360 may be a front portion of positioning and stabilising structure 1300 and may be disposed more anteriorly on the user's head than any other portion of positioning and stabilising structure 1300. Rear support portion 1350 may provide a force at least partially directed in a rearward direction.
[0603] In some forms, forehead support 1360 may include a cushioning material (e.g., fabric, foam, silicone, etc.) that may contact the user and may help limit marking caused by the straps of positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. Forehead support 1360 and interfacing structure 1100 may work together to provide comfort to the user.
[0604] In some forms, forehead support 1360 may be separate from display unit housing 1205 and may contact the user's head at a different location than display unit housing 1205 (e.g., a higher position).
[0605] In some versions, forehead support 1360 may be adjustable to allow positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 to adapt to the shape and / or configuration of a user's face.
[0606] In some forms, the temporal connector 1250 may be coupled to the forehead support 1360 (eg, at a side of the forehead support 1360 ). The temporal connector 1250 may extend at least partially downwardly so as to couple to the rear support portion 1350 .
[0607] In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include multiple pairs of temporal connectors 1250. For example, a pair of temporal connectors 1250 may be coupled to the forehead support 1360, and a pair of temporal connectors 1250 may be coupled to the display unit housing 1205.
[0608] In some forms, forehead support 1360 can be presented at an angle generally parallel to the user's forehead to provide improved comfort to the user. For example, forehead support 1360 can position the user in an orientation that covers the frontal bone and is substantially parallel to the coronal plane. Positioning the forehead support substantially parallel to the coronal plane can reduce the likelihood of pressure sores due to unevenness.
[0609] In some forms, the forehead support 1360 can be offset from the rear support that contacts the rear area of the user's head (e.g., the area covering the occipital bone and the trapezius muscle). In other words, the axis along the rear band will not intersect with the forehead support 1360, and the forehead support 1360 can be arranged to be lower and more forward than the axis along the rear band. The offset generated between the forehead support 1360 and the rear band can generate a moment of force against the gravity of the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205. A larger offset can generate a larger moment of force, and therefore is more helpful in maintaining the correct position of the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205. The offset can be increased by moving the forehead support 1360 closer to the user's eyes (e.g., more forward and lower along the user's head), and / or increasing the angle of the rear band to make it more vertical.
[0610] Adjustable strap
[0611] Portions of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may be adjustable to apply selective tensile forces on the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 to fix the position of the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 .
[0612] In some forms, the display unit housing 1205 may include at least one loop or eyelet 1254, and at least one of the temple connectors 1250 may be passed through the loop and folded back on itself (e.g., at Figure 4B Shown in but applicable to Figure 5A and Figure 5B ). The length of the strap of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 that passes through the corresponding eyelet 1254 can be selected by the user to adjust the stretching force. For example, a greater length passing through the eyelet 1254 can provide greater stretching force.
[0613] In some forms, at least one of the temporal connectors 1250 may include an adjustment portion 1256 and a receiving portion 1258. The adjustment portion 1256 may be positioned through the eyelet 1254 on the display unit housing 1205 and may be coupled to the receiving portion 1258 (e.g., by folding back on itself). The adjustment portion 1256 may include a hook material and the receiving portion 1258 may include a loop material (or vice versa) so that the adjustment portion 1256 may be removably retained in a desired position. In some examples, the hook material and the loop material may be Velcro.
[0614] In some forms, the strap may be at least partially constructed of a flexible and / or elastic material that may conform to the shape of the user's head and / or may allow the adjustment portion to be passed through the eyelet 1254. For example, the adjustment portion 1256 may be constructed of an elastic fabric that may provide an elastic stretch. The remainder of the temporal connector 1250 may be constructed of the rigid or semi-rigid materials described above (although it is contemplated that additional sections of the temporal connector 1250 may also be constructed of a flexible material).
[0615] Top band part
[0616] In some forms, the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 may include a top strap portion that may cover an upper region of a user's head.
[0617] In some forms, the top strap portion may extend between a front portion of the head mounted display system 1000 and a rear region of the head mounted display system 1000 .
[0618] In some forms, the top strap portion may be constructed of a flexible material and may be configured to conform to the shape of a user's head.
[0619] In some forms, the top strap portion may be connected to the display unit housing 1205. For example, the top strap portion may be coupled to the upper surface 1230. The top strap portion may also be coupled to the display unit housing 1205 near its rear end.
[0620] In some forms, the top strap portion can be coupled to the forehead support 1360. For example, the top strap portion can be coupled to the forehead support 1360 near the upper edge. The top strap portion can be connected to the display unit housing 1205 through the forehead support 1360.
[0621] In some forms, the top strap portion may be connected to the rear support portion 1350. For example, the top strap portion may be connected to the rear support portion 1350 near its upper edge.
[0622] In some forms, the top strap portion may cover the frontal and parietal bones of the user's head.
[0623] In some forms, the top strap portion may extend along a sagittal plane as it extends between the front and rear portions of the head mounted display system 1000.
[0624] In some forms, the top strap portion may apply a tensile force that is at least partially directed in an upward direction, which may counteract the force of gravity.
[0625] In some forms, the top strap portion may be adjustable to apply a selective tension force on the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 to secure the position of the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 .
[0626] In some forms, the display unit housing 1205 and / or the forehead support 1360 may include at least one loop or eyelet 1254, and the top strap portion may be passed through the eyelet 1254 and folded back on itself. The length of the top strap portion that passes through the eyelet 1254 may be selected by the user in order to adjust the tension provided by the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, passing a greater length of the top strap portion through the eyelet 1254 may provide greater tension.
[0627] In some forms, the top strap portion may include an adjustment portion and a receiving portion. The adjustment portion may be positioned through eyelet 1254 and may be coupled to the receiving portion (e.g., by folding back on itself). The adjustment portion may include a hook material and the receiving portion may include a loop material (or vice versa) such that the adjustment portion may be removably retained in a desired position. In some examples, the hook material and the loop material may be Velcro.
[0628] Rotary Controls
[0629] In some forms, the display unit housing 1205 and / or the display screen 1220 can pivot relative to the user's face when the user is already wearing the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. This can allow the user to see the physical environment without looking through the head mounted display unit 1200 (e.g., without looking at a computer generated image). This may be useful for a user who wants to take a break from viewing a virtual environment but does not want to take off the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300.
[0630] like Figure 5A As shown, some versions of the user interface 1000 may include a pivot and / or flexible connection 1260 formed between the end of the arm 1210 and the rear support portion 1350. The arm 1210 may pivot relative to the rear support portion 1350 together with the display unit housing 1205.
[0631] In some forms, forehead support 1360 (see, e.g., Figure 5B ) can provide a stop for the display unit housing 1205 and limit further rotation.
[0632] In some forms, the thickness of the forehead support 1360 can be less than the distance between the rear surface of the display unit housing 1205 and the user's head. Therefore, the display unit housing can rotate freely on the forehead support 1360 with limited or no interference.
[0633] In one form, the display unit housing 1205 can be rotated approximately 90° between the operative position and the non-operative position. Figure 5B The operating position is illustrated, and the user can rotate the display unit housing up to about 90° (e.g., so that the display unit housing 1205 is positioned on top of the user's head).
[0634] In some forms, pivot connection 1260 may be coupled to temporal connector 1250. Head mounted display unit 1200 may be capable of pivoting about an axis extending between temporal connectors 1250 (e.g., a substantially horizontal axis that may be substantially perpendicular to the Frankfurt horizontal plane in use).
[0635] In some forms, the pivot connection 1260 may allow the interfacing structure 1100 to remain in place when the display unit housing is pivoted away from the operative position.
[0636] In some forms, the display screen 1220 and / or display unit housing 1205 includes a pair of arms 1210 that extend away from the display screen 1220 (e.g., in a cantilever configuration) and can extend in a rearward direction during use.
[0637] like Figure 5A As shown, some forms of the user interface may include an axis extending through the free end of the arm 1210. In other examples, the axis may be closer to the fixed end of the arm 1210 (e.g., so that only the display unit housing 1205 pivots relative to the arm 1210).
[0638] In some forms, the pair of arms 1210 may extend at least partially along the temporal connector 1250 and may be connected to the temporal connector 1250 at a pivot connection 1260 .
[0639] In some forms, pivot connection 1260 may be a ratcheting connection and may maintain display unit housing 1205 in a raised position without additional user intervention.
[0640] In some forms, the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 may include a neutral position (see, e.g., Figure 5B ; substantially horizontal in use) and a pivot position (e.g., pivoted relative to a horizontal axis in use).
[0641] In some forms, the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 can pivot between about 0° and about 90° relative to the temporal connector 1250. In some forms, the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 can pivot between about 0° and about 80° relative to the temporal connector 1250. In some forms, the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 can pivot between about 0° and about 70° relative to the temporal connector 1250. In some forms, the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 can pivot between about 0° and about 60° relative to the temporal connector 1250. In some forms, the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 can pivot between about 0° and about 50° relative to the temporal connector 1250. In some forms, the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 can pivot between about 0° and about 45° relative to the temporal connector 1250. At least in its maximum pivoted position, the display screen 1220 can be positioned higher than the user's eyes, so that the user does not have to look through the display screen 1220 to view the physical environment.
[0642] Controller
[0643] like Figure 6 As shown, some forms of the head mounted display system 1000 include a controller 1270 that can be engaged by a user to provide user input to the virtual environment and / or control the operation of the head mounted display system 1000. The controller 1270 can be connected to the head mounted display unit 1200 and provide the user with the ability to interact with virtual objects output to the user from the head mounted display unit 1200.
[0644] Handheld Controller
[0645] In some forms, controller 1270 may comprise a handheld device and may be easily grasped by a user with a single hand.
[0646] In some forms, the head mounted display system 1000 may include two handheld controllers. The handheld controllers may be substantially identical to each other, and each handheld controller may be actuated by a respective one of the user's hands.
[0647] In some forms, a user may interact with a handheld controller to control and / or interact with virtual objects in a virtual environment.
[0648] In some forms, the handheld controller includes buttons that can be actuated by the user. For example, the user's fingers may be able to press the buttons while grasping the handheld controller.
[0649] In some forms, the handheld controller may include a directional control (e.g., a joystick, a control pad, etc.) The user's thumb may be able to engage the directional control while grasping the handheld controller.
[0650] In some forms, the controller 1270 may be wirelessly connected to the head mounted display unit 1200. For example, the controller 1270 and the head mounted display unit 1200 may be connected via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or any similar means.
[0651] In some forms, the controller 1270 and the head mounted display unit 1200 may be connected via a wired connection. The wired connection may provide power to the controller 1270.
[0652] Fixed controller
[0653] In some forms, at least a portion of the controller 1270 may be integrally formed on the display unit housing 1205 .
[0654] In some forms, the controller 1270 may include control buttons integrally formed on the display unit housing 1205. For example, the control buttons may be formed on the upper surface 1230 and / or the lower surface 1232 so as to be engageable by the user's fingers when the user's palm is placed against the left side 1234 or the right side 1236 of the display unit housing 1205. The control buttons may also be provided on other surfaces of the display unit housing 1205.
[0655] In some forms, a user may interact with the control button to control at least one operation of the head mounted display system 1000. For example, the control button may be an on / off button that selectively controls whether the display screen 1220 outputs an image to the user.
[0656] In some forms, the control buttons may provide other functionality, such as brightness control on the display screen 1220 and / or volume control on a speaker 1272 disposed in the display unit housing 1205.
[0657] In some forms, the control buttons and head mounted display unit 1200 may be connected via a wired connection.
[0658] In some forms, head mounted display system 1000 may include both a handheld controller and control buttons.
[0659] In some forms, it may be preferred to have only control buttons in the AR or MR device. When wearing the AR or MR head mounted display system 1000, the user can interact with his physical environment (e.g., walk around, use tools, etc.). Therefore, the user may prefer to keep their hands away from the controller 1270.
[0660] speaker
[0661] like Figure 6 As shown, some forms of the head mounted display system 1000 include a sound system or speaker 1272 that can be connected to the head mounted display unit 1200 and can be positioned proximate to the user's ears to provide auditory output to the user.
[0662] In some forms, the speaker 1272 can be positioned around the user's ear and can block or limit the user from hearing ambient noise. For example, the speaker can be formed like an earmuff.
[0663] In some forms, each of the speakers 1272 may be connected to one of the pair of arms 1210. This may be a permanent connection or a removable connection.
[0664] In some forms, the speaker 1272 can be an ear bud and fit inside the user's ear. The ear bud can be used only with the head mounted display unit 1200, or they can be standard ear buds used with other electronic devices (e.g., smart phones).
[0665] In some forms, the speaker 1272 can be wirelessly connected to the head mounted display unit 1200. For example, the speaker 1272 and the head mounted display unit 1200 can be connected via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or any similar means.
[0666] In some forms, speaker 1272 includes a left ear transducer and a right ear transducer. In some forms, the left ear transducer and the right ear transducer can output different signals so that the volume and / or noise heard by the user in one ear (e.g., left ear) can be different from the volume and / or noise heard by the user in the other ear (e.g., right ear).
[0667] In some forms, controller 1270 may be used to control speaker 1272 (eg, the volume of speaker 1272).
[0668] power supply
[0669] like Figure 6 As shown, some forms of the head mounted display system 1000 may include a power supply 1274 that can provide power to the head mounted display unit 1200 and any other electrical components of the head mounted display system 1000.
[0670] In some forms, the power supply 1274 may include a wired electrical connection that can be connected to an external power source (e.g., a wall outlet, a computer, etc.), which can be fixed to a particular location.
[0671] In some forms, the power source 1274 may include a portable battery that can provide power to the head mounted display unit 1200. The portable battery may allow the user to have greater mobility compared to a wired electrical connection. The portable battery may be replaceable and / or rechargeable.
[0672] In some forms, head mounted display system 1000 and / or other electronic components of head mounted display system 1000 may include internal batteries and may be used without power source 1274.
[0673] In one form, the head mounted display system 1000 may be powered by a portable battery or an external power source, and the user may selectively choose which type of power source to use.
[0674] In some forms, the head mounted display system 1000 may include a power source 1274 in a location remote from the head mounted display unit 1200. Wires may extend from the remote location to the display unit housing 1205 to electrically connect the power source 1274 to the head mounted display unit 1200.
[0675] In some forms, the power supply 1274 can be coupled to the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, the power supply 1274 can be permanently or removably coupled to a band of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. The power supply 1274 can be coupled to a rear portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 so that it can be generally opposite the display unit housing 1205 and / or the head mounted display unit 1200. Thus, the weight of the power supply 1274, as well as the weight of the head mounted display unit 1200 and the display unit housing 1205, can be spread throughout the head mounted display system 1000, rather than being concentrated in the front portion of the head mounted display system 1000. Shifting the weight to the rear portion of the display interface can limit the moments generated on the user's face, which can improve comfort and allow the user to wear the head mounted display system 1000 for longer periods of time.
[0676] In some forms, the power supply 1274 can be supported by the user away from the user's head. For example, the power supply 1274 can be connected to the head mounted display unit 1200 and / or the display unit housing 1205 only by an electrical connector (e.g., a wire). The power supply 1274 can be stored in the user's pants pocket, on a belt clip, or in a similar manner to support the weight of the power supply 1274. This eliminates the need to support weight on the user's head and can make wearing the head mounted display system 1000 more comfortable for the user.
[0677] Control System
[0678] In some forms, the control system 1276 may be powered by a power source 1274 (eg, at least one battery) for powering components of the control system 1276. For example, sensors of the control system 1276 may be powered by the power source 1274.
[0679] In some forms, at least one battery of the power source 1274 may be a low power system battery 1278 and a main battery 1280 .
[0680] In some forms, a low power system battery 1278 may be used to power a real time (RT) clock 1282 of the control system 1276 .
[0681] Integrated power supply support
[0682] In some forms, the battery support portion 1288 may support the low power system battery 1278 and / or the main battery 1280. The battery support portion 1288 may be supported directly on the head mounted display system 1000.
[0683] In some forms, the battery support portion 1288 can be disposed within the display unit housing 1205 .
[0684] In some forms, the battery support portion 1288 may be disposed on the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, the battery support portion 1288 may be coupled to the rear support portion 1350. The weight of the head mounted display system 1000 may be better balanced around the user's head.
[0685] Remote power supply support part
[0686] In some forms, the battery support portion 1288 can support the low-power system battery 1278 and / or the main battery 1280. The battery support portion 1288 can be coupled to the user independently of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and / or the display unit housing 1205 (e.g., it can be coupled via a belt clip). The battery support portion 1288 can also be supported away from the user's body (e.g., if the head mounted display system 1000 receives power from a computer or video game console). A tether can couple the battery support portion 1288 to the control system 1276 and / or other electronics. The positioning of the battery support portion can improve user comfort because the weight of the low-power system battery 1278 and / or the main battery 1280 is not supported by the user's head.
[0687] Orientation sensor
[0688] In some forms, the control system 1276 includes an orientation sensor 1284 capable of sensing the orientation of the user's body. For example, the orientation sensor 1284 can sense when the user rotates their body as a whole, and / or rotates their head individually. In other words, the orientation sensor 1284 can measure the angular position of the user's body (or any similar parameter). By sensing the rotation, the sensor 1284 can communicate with the display screen 1220 to output a different image.
[0689] In some examples, external orientation sensors can be positioned in the physical environment where the user is wearing the head mounted display system 1000. The external position sensors can track the user's movements, similar to the orientation sensors 1284 described above. Using external orientation sensors can reduce the weight that the user needs to support.
[0690] camera
[0691] In some forms, the control system 1276 may include at least one camera that may be positioned to observe the user's physical environment.
[0692] In some forms, orientation sensor 1284 is a camera that can be configured to observe the user's physical environment in order to measure and determine the orientation of the user's head (e.g., in which direction the user's head is tilted).
[0693] In some forms, orientation sensor 1284 comprises multiple cameras positioned throughout head mounted display system 1000 to provide a more complete view of the user's physical environment and to more accurately measure the orientation of the user's head.
[0694] Eye sensor
[0695] In some forms, the control system 1276 may include an eye sensor that can track the movement of the user's eyes. For example, the eye sensor may be able to measure the position of at least one eye of the user and determine which direction the at least one eye of the user is looking at.
[0696] In some forms, the control system 1276 may include two eye sensors. Each sensor may correspond to one eye of the user.
[0697] In some forms, the eye sensor may be disposed in or near lens 1240 .
[0698] In some forms, the eye sensor may measure the angular position of the user's ears in order to determine visual output from display screen 1220.
[0699] In some forms, the user's eyes can act as controllers, and the user can move their eyes to interact with virtual objects. For example, a virtual cursor can follow the position of the user's eyes. Eye sensors can track and measure the movement of the user's eyes and communicate with processing system 1286 (described below) to move the virtual cursor.
[0700] Processing system
[0701] In some forms, the control system 1276 includes a processing system 1286 (eg, a microprocessor) that may receive measurements from various sensors of the control system 1276 .
[0702] In some forms, processing system 1286 may receive measurements recorded by orientation sensor 1284 and / or eye sensor. Based on these measurements, the processor may communicate with display screen 1220 to change the image being output. For example, if the user's eyes and / or the user's head are pivoted in an upward direction, display screen 1220 may display a more upward portion of the virtual environment (e.g., in response to the direction from processing system 1286).
[0703] Additional Instances
[0704] Examples of interfacing structures and positioning and stabilizing structures
[0705] Fig. 7A , Figure 7B , Fig.9A , Fig. 9B , FIG. 10A to FIG. 10C , FIG. 11A to FIG. 11D , Fig.12 and Fig.13 An interface connection structure 1100 and a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 according to other examples of the present technology are shown. The interface connection structure 1100 is used in a head-mounted display system 1000, which includes a head-mounted display unit 1200, which includes a display and an interface connection structure 1100, and the interface connection structure 1100 is constructed and arranged to be in relative relationship with the face of a user during use. The head-mounted display system 1000 can additionally have any features, configurations, aspects, functions, etc. as described elsewhere herein. For example, the head-mounted display system 1000 can include a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, which is constructed and arranged to maintain the head-mounted display unit 1200 in an operable position on the user's head during use.
[0706] The interfacing structure 1100 may include a face engaging portion 1110 configured to engage the face of a user in use. The face engaging portion 1110 may be flexible and resilient. The face engaging portion 1110 may be at least partially formed of an elastomeric material, such as silicone or TPE, for example.
[0707] It should be understood that unless the context requires otherwise, the interfacing structures and / or facial engaging portions described elsewhere herein (e.g., with reference to FIG. 4A to FIG. 4B or FIG. 5A to FIG. 5B Any features described in Fig. 7A , Figure 7B , Fig.9A , Fig. 9B , FIG. 10A to FIG. 10C , FIG. 11A to FIG. 11D , Fig.12 and Fig.13 The interface connection structure 1100 shown. These interface connection structures 1100 may be particularly suitable for head-mounted display systems 1000 configured for VR, such as reference FIG. 4A to FIG. 4B However, it should be understood that reference Fig. 7A , Figure 7B , Fig.9A , Fig. 9B , FIG. 10A to FIG. 10C , FIG. 11A to FIG. 11D , Fig.12 and Fig.13 The described interfacing structure 1100 or individual features thereof may be applied in a head mounted display system 1000 configured for any of VR, MR, AR, or other artificial realities.
[0708] The interface connection structure 1100 may also include a chassis portion 1102 that is stiffer than the face engaging portion 1110. The face engaging portion 1110 is attached to the chassis portion 1102 and may be supported by the chassis portion 1102. The chassis portion 1102 may be configured to attach the interface connection structure 1100 to the head mounted display unit 1200. For example, the chassis portion 1102 may be configured to attach to a display unit housing 1205 of the head mounted display unit 1200. In some examples, the chassis portion 1102 may be formed of a thermoplastic material such as polycarbonate, ABS, nylon, etc., while the face engaging portion 1110 may be formed of an elastomeric material such as silicone or TPE. The chassis portion 1102 may additionally include a shape that requires a greater force to deform than the face engaging portion 1110.
[0709] In some examples, the face-engaging portion 1110 and the chassis portion 1102 can include a single component that can be releasably fastened to the head-mounted display unit 1200. The chassis portion 1102 can be configured to attach the interface connection structure 1100 to the head-mounted display unit 1200, for example, by a snap fit. In other examples, the chassis portion 1102 can be attached to the head-mounted display unit 1200 by an interference fit, a hook and loop fastening connection, a magnetic connection, and an interface connection structure clip or retainer that allows for a friction fit, an interference fit, a snap fit, or any other suitable connection. Fig. 7A , Figure 7B , Fig.9A , Fig. 9B , FIG. 10A to FIG. 10C , FIG. 11A to FIG. 11D , Fig.12 and Fig.13 In the example shown, the chassis portion 1102 is configured to be attached to a device such as a Fig.9A The interface connection structure clip 1104 is shown. The interface connection structure clip 1104 can form a snap-fit connection with the display unit housing 1205 of the head-mounted display unit 1200.
[0710] In some forms, such as Fig. 11B As shown, the face engaging portion 1110 includes a ring structure 1120 surrounding a cushion 1130, and the face engaging portion 1110 is attached to the interfacing structure clip 1104. Reference will be made to the face engaging portion 1110, which includes a forehead portion 1112, two cheek portions 1116, and two side portions 1114, which, in use, are adjacent to the sphenoid region of the user and connect the forehead portion 1112 to the corresponding cheek portions 1116.
[0711] The facial engaging portion 1110 may be configured to engage the user's face around the periphery of the user's eyes during use. The facial engaging portion 1110 may be configured to engage the sides of the user's face outside the user's eyes and engage the user's forehead during use. The facial engaging portion 1110 may engage the user's cheeks, the sides of the user's face outside the user's eyes, and the user's forehead. The facial engaging portion 1110 may engage the user's face in an area covering the user's nose, maxilla, zygomatic bone, sphenoid bone, and frontal bone. For example, the facial engaging portion 1110 may engage the user's face in an area covering the user's nose, maxilla, zygomatic bone, sphenoid bone, and frontal bone. Figure 4D The user's face is engaged in the area shown.
[0712] Fig. 7A A head mounted display system 1000 is shown, which includes a head mounted display unit 1200. The head mounted display unit 1200 may be as described in reference Fig. 7AThe head mounted display unit 1200 may include: a display unit housing 1205 including a display; and an interface connection structure 1100 connected to the display unit housing 1205 and constructed and arranged to engage the user's face during use.
[0713] like Fig. 7A and Figure 7B As shown, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes a rear support portion 1350, which is constructed and arranged to be located on a path around the upper rear region of the user's head, which can be referred to as the top of the user's head. The rear support portion 1350 can be located on a path on the upper region of the user's head, such as covering the parietal bone near the frontal bone, on a path on the lateral and rear region of the user's head, such as covering the parietal bone near the temporal bone, and on a path on the rear region of the user's head, such as covering the occipital bone or covering the parietal bone near the occipital bone. The rear support portion 1350 can include an upper section 1310 and a lower section 1320. The upper section 1310 and the lower section 1320 can be continuous and form a circular shape (e.g., circular, oval, etc.) of the rear support portion.
[0714] The rear support portion 1350 can surround the upper rear area of the user's head, such as Fig. 7A The rear support portion 1350 may be configured to be anchored in place against the upper rear region of the user's head so that the rear support portion 1350 remains in place during use and substantially assumes its in-use shape during use. Fig. 7A and Figure 7B In the example shown, the rear support portion 1350 forms an upper section 1310 that is constructed and arranged to engage an upper region of the user's head at or near a coronal plane aligned with each of the supra-auricular base points of the user's head. The rear support portion 1350 also includes a lower section 1320 that is constructed and arranged to engage an area of the user's head that covers the occipital bone or covers the parietal bone near the occipital bone. In an example, the top band portion 1340 can be connected to the display unit housing 1205.
[0715] In this example, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 also includes a pair of outer strap portions 1330 connected to the rear support portion 1350, which are constructed and arranged to be connected to corresponding sides of the head mounted display unit 1200. The outer strap portions 1330 can be placed in a tensioned state in use, which pulls the head mounted display unit 1200 toward the user's face and pulls the rear support portion 1350 against the upper rear region of the user's head, which causes the rear support portion 1350 to be substantially fixed in place due to the convex shape of the surface of the user's head at the upper rear region.
[0716] exist Fig. 7A In the example shown, the head mounted display unit 1200 includes a pair of arms 1210 extending rearwardly from respective sides of the display unit housing 1205. In other examples, the arms 1210 may be part of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and configured for attachment to the display unit housing 1205. It should be understood that the arms 1210 in any other example shown herein may be formed as part of the head mounted display housing, or alternatively, may form part of a positioning and stabilizing structure configured for attachment to the display unit housing. The outer strap portions 1330 are each attached to a respective one of the arms 1210. In this particular example, the outer strap portions 1330 are each passed through a respective guide 1213 located near the rear end of the respective arm 1210, and then passed through an eyelet near the front end of the arm 1210, and then looped back and secured to themselves.
[0717] The arm 1210 can be pivotally attached to the display unit housing 1205. The arm 1210 can be substantially rigid. For example, the arm 1210 can be formed from a rigid plastic material.
[0718] In an example, portions of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include providing a layered arrangement of conduits within which electronic components and / or cabling / wiring may be located.
[0719] Identification of user-specific data
[0720] Use cases can be envisioned where an interface connection structure 1100 associated with a particular user can be used with different head mounted display units. For example, in an enterprise environment or community organization, a limited number of head mounted display units can be shared by multiple users. Each user can be assigned their own interface connection structure 1100, which they connect to the head mounted display unit when using it. There are various forms of data associated with a user that would be useful for following that user between devices.
[0721] For example, the user-specific data may include setting preferences for the head mounted display unit 1200. In an example, the setting preferences for the head mounted display unit 1200 may include one or more of the following: comfort settings (e.g., motion sickness reduction settings, preferred lighting levels, cooling settings), visual settings (e.g., resolution and / or color calibration settings), audio settings (e.g., preferred volume levels, EQ settings, or surround sound preferences), language preferences, control scheme preferences (e.g., hand tracking, gesture recognition, controller configuration), social preferences (e.g., contact lists, chat settings, privacy settings), environmental settings (e.g., surrounding space size and configuration).
[0722] In an example, user-specific data may include activity history (eg, motion tracking for fitness / health statistics).
[0723] In an example, user-specific data may include medical information that informs the settings of the head mounted display unit. For example, information about a user's medical condition (e.g., a physical health condition such as epilepsy, diabetes, or heart disease, or a mental health condition such as anxiety or PTSD) may be used to adjust the settings of the head mounted display unit 1200 to reduce the likelihood of triggering or exacerbating those conditions. It is contemplated that detailed information about physical limitations, such as limited mobility or range of motion, may be used to tailor the user's experience to their abilities and reduce the likelihood of injury.
[0724] In an example, user-specific data may include content-related data. For example, content-related data may include one or more of: access permissions, subscriptions, purchased and / or downloaded content, and content history (e.g., game achievements or progress).
[0725] In an example, the user-specific data may include setting preferences for at least one of the interfacing structure and the positioning and stabilizing structure for adjustment as further described below.
[0726] Fig. 8A An exemplary system according to other examples of the present technology is shown in which at least one identification device 1400 is incorporated into the interfacing structure 1100 (or the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300).
[0727] Fig.9A An interfacing structure 1100 incorporating at least one identification device 1400 according to other examples of the present technology is shown. Fig. 9B A positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 in conjunction with at least one identification device 1400 is shown according to other examples of the present technology.
[0728] In an example, data associated with a user may be stored on the identification device 1400. In an example, the data stored on the identification device 1400 may include a unique user identifier (UID). The UID may be used to access an account associated with the user, which provides access to rich data, examples of which are described above. It is contemplated that, as technology advances, in alternative examples, the identification device 1400 may store the above data directly, rather than storing identification details for accessing data from another source.
[0729] In such Fig. 8AIn the example shown, the head mounted display unit 1200 may include a communication system 1292 configured to communicate with the identification device 1400 via a network to access data associated with the user. In an alternative example, a separate user device 1500 (e.g., a mobile device such as a smartphone, tablet, game console, smart watch, laptop, etc.) may communicate with the identification device 1400 to obtain data and relay it to the head mounted display unit 1200.
[0730] In an example, the communication system 1292 of the head mounted display unit 1200 is configured to communicate wirelessly with the identification device 1400. In an example, the identification device 1400 includes a radio frequency identification (RFID) device (which may be referred to herein as an RFID "tag" 1400). In an example, the RFID tag 1400 may be a low frequency (LF) RFID device. The smaller physical footprint of such devices may be helpful compared to high frequency (HF) or ultra high frequency (UHF) RFID devices, but it should be understood that this is not intended to be limited to all examples. In another alternative example, the identification device 1400 may include a near field communication (NFC) device. In an alternative example, the head mounted display unit 1200 may include a wired interface for connecting to the interface connection structure 1100 or the positioning and stabilization structure 1300.
[0731] In an example, the RFID tag 1400 is disposed within a rigid component of the interfacing structure 1100 and / or the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, a hollow housing feature can house the RFID tag 1400, wherein the housing feature is sealed (e.g., closed by a permanent cover). The RFID tag 1400 can be disposed in a position proximate to the head mounted display unit during use.
[0732] For example, refer to Fig.9A , the RFID tag 1400 can be disposed near the front edge of the interface connection structure clip 1104 (or alternatively, the chassis portion 1102 in instances where the chassis portion 1102 is configured to be attached to the head mounted display unit 1200). Positioning the RFID tag 1400 away from the face and the flexible components of the interface connection structure 1100 reduces the likelihood that the RFID tag packaging or housing features will cause discomfort. This positioning also improves the proximity to the head mounted display unit 1200 in instances where the communication device of the head mounted display unit 1200 reads the RFID tag 1400. The position shown at a radially outward position can also reduce the likelihood that the RFID tag 1400 will obstruct the field of view.
[0733] refer to Fig. 9BIn an example, the RFID tag 1400 can be disposed in a portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 that is proximate to the head mounted display unit 1200 during use. For example, the RFID tag 1400 can be disposed in a rigid component of the temporal connector 1250 of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300.
[0734] In some cases, the head mounted display unit 1200 may not have a built-in capability to communicate with the identification device 1400 using a compatible communication technology. In other examples of the present technology, the interface connection structure 1100 can be configured to provide such functionality. Figure 8B , the interface connection structure system 1410 includes an interface power system 1412, which is configured to be connected to the power supply 1274 of the head mounted display unit 1200. In an example, an onboard battery 1414 can be provided. The interface connection structure system 1412 also includes an interface processing system 1416 and a first interface communication system 1418 capable of communicating with the communication system 1292 of the head mounted display unit 1200. For example, the communication can be via a wired connection, or a wireless communication technology such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Reference Fig. 10C In an example, a wired connection can be provided by an interconnect cable 1438 connected between an external port 1294 of the head mounted display unit 1200 and an interface port 1440 of the interface connection structure 1100 .
[0735] The interface connection structure system 1412 also includes a second interface communication system 1420, which can communicate with the identification device 1400 or the user device 1500 using a different communication technology such as NFC. Fig. 10A , the interface connection structure system 1410 (with an antenna 1422 for the second interface communication system 1420) can be disposed on the radially inward surface of the interface connection structure clip 1104. In this example, the interface connection structure system 1410 includes a plurality of separate but electrically interconnected PCB sections 1426. This arrangement allows the component to follow the curvature of the interface connection structure clip 1104 and maintain a relatively low profile to avoid obstruction of vision.
[0736] As a result, the identification device 1400 can use communication technology that would otherwise be incompatible with the head-mounted display unit 1200.
[0737] Interfacing structures and / or positioning and stabilizing structures including tactile output
[0738] In an example according to one aspect of the present technology, at least one of the interfacing structure 1100 and the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes at least one haptic output device 1430 .
[0739] Providing tactile output can enhance the immersive experience provided by the head mounted display unit 1200 by providing a sense of touch that corresponds to the visual and auditory senses of the virtual environment.
[0740] For example, tactile output can be used to provide environmental feedback. For example, tactile output can simulate the physical environment of the virtual world, providing a feeling such as wind.
[0741] In an example, haptic output may be used to provide physical perception, i.e., to provide the user with a sense of their virtual body by simulating sensations such as touch or pressure and making the virtual body feel more real and tactile.
[0742] In an example, haptic output can be used to provide force feedback, thereby providing the user with a sense of physical forces and impacts in the virtual world (e.g., the recoil of a gun, the impact of a fist, or the feeling of a virtual object pushing against the user's body).
[0743] In an example, tactile output can be used to enhance communication, such as non-verbal communication in a virtual social environment, such as providing a sense of touch or proximity between avatars, or conveying emotions through tactile feedback. Given the increasing use of hand tracking in virtual and mixed reality devices without the need for a conduit of a controller to transmit feedback, it is expected that providing tactile output via the interface connection structure 1100 and / or the positioning and stabilization structure 1300 may be particularly valuable. The introduction of a physical feedback loop allows users to use their devices with greater confidence, knowing that the input or gestures they use without a controller are correct and are being successfully read by the device. It also enables users to implement this feedback loop without volume, allowing users with impaired sense of direction to use this technology more comfortably.
[0744] refer to Figure 8C The interface connection structure 1100 may include an interface connection structure system 1410, wherein the interface connection structure system 1410 includes a tactile output device 1430, wherein the interface connection structure system 1410 and the reference Figure 8B The interface connection structure system 1410 receives the control signal for the haptic output device 1430 from the head mounted display device 1200 and controls the haptic output device 1430 accordingly.
[0745] In an example, the interface structure system 1410 can include a dedicated haptic controller 1424 at the interface structure 1410 (e.g., a control device on the exterior of the interface structure clip 1104) that enables a user to adjust characteristics such as vibration intensity. In other examples, a control button of the controller 1270 (e.g., a control button integrally formed on the display unit housing 1205) can communicate with the interface processing system 1416 to provide such control.
[0746] Although Figure 8B The systems are illustrated and described separately, but it should be understood that the described functionality (i.e., enabling communication with the identification device 1400 and providing tactile output) is not intended to be mutually exclusive in all instances.
[0747] In an example, at least one haptic output device includes one or more of: vibrotactile, electrotactile, and piezoelectric actuators. In an example, an eccentric rotating mass (ERM) motor may be used, but other types of actuators are contemplated, such as: linear resonant actuators (LRA), piezoelectric haptic actuators, thermoelectric devices, solenoid actuators, and / or ultrasonic transducers or sensors.
[0748] refer to Fig.11A In an example according to one aspect of the present technology, a haptic output device 1430 can include a haptic actuator 1432 provided to a distribution member 1434. In an example, the distribution member 1434 can be elongated and substantially flat and made of a rigid material. The distribution member 1434 is configured to distribute the vibration output by the haptic actuator 1432 along its length. In an example, the distribution member can be shaped to follow the contours of a user's face or other anthropomorphic features.
[0749] In an example, haptic output device 1430 may be positioned close to the user's point of contact so as to reduce the likelihood of vibration and without loss of directionality (i.e., the user's ability to determine where the output is coming from) through surrounding structures. However, in an example, haptic output device 1430 may be isolated from direct contact with the user to reduce the likelihood of discomfort issues caused by contact pressure due to unwanted components and geometries.
[0750] refer to Fig. 11B In the example where haptic output device 1430 is disposed in interfacing structure 1100, it is contemplated that haptic output device 1430 may be located between face engaging portion 1100 and interfacing structure clip 1104 / chassis portion 1102. In such an arrangement, vibrations would be able to propagate through foam cushion 1130 and silicone ring structure 1120 surrounding cushion 1130, where cushion 1130 fits around haptic output device 1430 to protect the skin from any undesirable edges that may cause discomfort when worn.
[0751] In an example, haptic output device 1430 may be held in place by cushion 1130 , but not secured to interfacing structure clip 1104 / chassis portion 1102 or ring structure 1120 .
[0752] In the example of an electrotactile output device that utilizes electrical stimulation through the skin to produce a tactile sensation, the output device may be located closer to the skin (eg, integrated within a silicone contact area).
[0753] refer to Fig. 11C In an example, a haptic output device 1430 having a dispensing member 1434 may be disposed in the transition between the forehead portion 1112 and the side portion 1114 of the interfacing structure 1100, but not extending downwardly to the cheek portion 1116. It is believed that this location may reduce the likelihood of vibrations occurring in a rigid portion of the face, thereby improving comfort.
[0754] refer to Fig.11D In other examples, haptic output devices 1430 (with or without dispensing member 1434) may be provided in forehead portion 1112 and cheek portion 1116 of interfacing structure 1100. These may be accomplished by providing a "stereo" effect by providing multiple haptic output devices 1430 along the forehead (or at least one on each side of the mid-plane in use), so that the haptic output shows a sense of direction (e.g., wind blowing from the right), or an explosion on the left side engages haptics on that side.
[0755] refer to Fig.12 , positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may also include multiple haptic output devices 1430 to achieve a "stereo" sensation. In an example, a portion of positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include a multi-layer structure including a conduit between at least two layers, wherein at least one haptic output device 1430 and wiring / cables are disposed in the conduit.
[0756] Actuation configuration of the interfacing structure and / or positioning and stabilizing structure
[0757] According to an example of the present technology, at least one of the interfacing structure 1100 and the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include at least one adjustable portion and at least one actuator configured to control movement of the adjustable portion.
[0758] In an example, movement of these parts can be used to achieve anthropomorphic features desired by a particular user. In an example, such movement can be used to change the contact points to improve comfort.
[0759] refer to Fig.13, in this example, the interfacing structure 1100 includes a forehead support 1360 having a silicone covered foam pad. The forehead support 1360 includes two sets of adjustable portions 1450: a first adjustable portion 1450a and a second adjustable portion 1450b. An actuator (e.g., a position shifting motor) associated with each adjustable portion 1450 is configured to selectively move each adjustable portion 1450 in an anterior-posterior direction (i.e., toward and away from the user). Even if pressure is effectively distributed by matching the shape of the user's facial features (in this example, the forehead), over time, pressure can accumulate and cause discomfort (and even pressure sores if left for long enough). In the example shown, the positions of the adjustable portions 1450 can be adjusted to slowly shift the pressure areas over time. For example, the first adjustable portion 1450a can initially present the primary contact point with the user, but over time (e.g., minutes), the actuator slowly moves the first adjustable portion 1450a away from the face and the second adjustable portion 1450b closer to the face. This effectively removes the pressure from the facial area in contact with the first adjustable portion 1450a and transfers it to the second adjustable portion 1450b. Over time, this will allow for a more comfortable experience and will increase the wearing time of the head mounted display device 1200.
[0760] In this example, the material surrounding the adjustable portion 1450 is flexible (e.g., foam and silicone). Such a material can accommodate changes in the underlying frame due to actuation without significant breaks in the contact area that might otherwise cause discomfort or skin marking.
[0761] In an alternative example, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes at least one adjustable strap portion. The at least one actuator can be used to control the length of the adjustable strap portion, for example to improve the fit, or to facilitate donning and / or doffing the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 (e.g., switching between a loose mode and a tightening mode).
[0762] In an example, the control of the actuator can be performed according to user preferences and / or specifications. For example, a user's preference for comfort can be associated with a UID as described above.
[0763] Customized interface connection structure
[0764] An interfacing structure 1100 (which may also be referred to as a "facial interface") according to an example of the present technology may be provided in a range of sizes and / or shapes so that a user may select their best fit when purchasing or using a head mounted display system, or alternatively, may select a customized interface.
[0765] For example, systems and methods for collecting data to customize a facial interface connection structure for a head-mounted display interface for a virtual reality or augmented reality system are described in International (PCT) Application No. PCT / IB2022 / 055219, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
[0766] In an example, the data may be used to provide personalized user settings for adjusting the interfacing structure 1100 or the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 as described above.
[0767] External Computer
[0768] In some forms, the head mounted display system 1000 (e.g., VR, AR, and / or MR) can be used in conjunction with a separate device such as a computer or video game console. For example, the display interface can be electrically connected to the separate device.
[0769] In some forms, at least some of the processing for the head mounted display system 1000 may be performed by a separate device. The separate device may include a larger and / or more powerful processor that the user cannot comfortably support (e.g., the processor of the separate device may be too heavy for the user to comfortably support on their head).
[0770] Glossary
[0771] For purposes of this technology disclosure, in some forms of the technology, one or more of the following definitions may apply. In other forms of the technology, alternative definitions may apply.
[0772] General
[0773] Environment: In some forms of the present technology, the term environment is considered to refer to (i) the external environment of the display interface and / or user, and (ii) the surrounding environment immediately surrounding the display interface and / or user.
[0774] For example, ambient light with respect to a display interface can be light directly surrounding the user, such as light in the same and / or adjacent rooms as the user, and / or natural light from the sun.
[0775] In some forms, ambient (e.g., acoustic) noise may be considered to be the background noise level in a room that the user is in, rather than, for example, noise generated by a display device or noise emitted by speakers connected to the display device. Ambient noise may be generated by sound sources outside the room.
[0776] Leakage: The term leakage would be considered unintentional exposure to light. In one instance, leakage may be caused by an incomplete seal between the display unit and the user's face.
[0777] Radiated noise (acoustics): Radiated noise in this document is the noise transmitted to the user by the ambient air. In one form, radiated noise can be quantified according to ISO 3744 by measuring the sound power / sound pressure level of the object in question.
[0778] User: A person who operates a display interface and / or views images provided by a display interface. For example, a person may wear, put on, and / or take off a display interface.
[0779] Material
[0780] Silicone or Silicone Elastomer: Synthetic rubber. In this specification, reference to silicone is a reference to liquid silicone rubber (LSR) or compression molded silicone rubber (CMSR). One form of commercially available LSR is SILASTIC (included in the range of products sold under this trademark), which is manufactured by Dow Corning. Another manufacturer of LSR is Wacker. Unless otherwise specified to the contrary, exemplary forms of LSR have a Shore A (or Type A) indentation hardness ranging from about 35 to about 45 measured using ASTM D2240.
[0781] Polycarbonate: A transparent thermoplastic polymer of bisphenol A carbonate.
[0782] Mechanical properties
[0783] Resilience: The ability of a material to absorb energy when elastically deformed and release that energy when unloaded.
[0784] Elastic: Will release substantially all of its energy when unloaded. Includes, for example, some silicones and thermoplastic elastomers.
[0785] Hardness: The ability of a material to resist deformation (described, for example, by Young's modulus or the indentation hardness scale measured on a standardized sample size).
[0786] "Soft" materials may include silicone or thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), and may deform easily, for example, under finger pressure.
[0787] "Hard" materials may include polycarbonate, polypropylene, steel or aluminum, and may not deform easily under finger pressure, for example.
[0788] Stiffness (or rigidity) of a structure or component: The ability of a structure or component to resist deformation in response to an applied load. The load can be a force or a moment, such as compression, tension, bending or torsion. A structure or component may offer different resistance in different directions. The antonym of stiffness is flexibility.
[0789] Flexible structure or component: A structure or component that will change shape (eg, bend) when made to support its own weight for a relatively short period of time, such as 1 second.
[0790] Rigid structure or component: A structure or component that does not substantially change shape when subjected to loads normally encountered in use. An example of such use would be establishing and maintaining a user interface in a sealed relationship.
[0791] For example, an I-beam may include a different bending stiffness (resistance to bending loads) in a first direction compared to a second orthogonal direction. In another example, a structure or component may be flexible in a first direction and rigid in a second direction.
[0792] Material
[0793] Closed-cell foam: includes completely enclosed cells, i.e. closed-cell foam.
[0794] Spandex: A polymer made from polyurethane.
[0795] Elastomer: A polymer that exhibits elastic properties. For example, silicone elastomers.
[0796] Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA): A copolymer of ethylene and vinyl acetate.
[0797] Fiber: A filament (monofilament or multifilament), strand, yarn, thread, or twist that is significantly longer than it is wide. Fibers may include animal-based materials such as wool or silk, plant-based materials such as linen and cotton, and synthetic materials such as polyester and rayon. Fiber may specifically refer to a material that may be interwoven and / or interlaced (e.g., in a network) with other fibers of the same or different materials.
[0798] Foam: Any material, such as polyurethane, that has air bubbles introduced during the manufacturing process to create a lightweight cellular form.
[0799] Neoprene: A synthetic rubber produced by the polymerization of chloroprene. Neoprene is used in commercial products: Breath-O-Prene.
[0800] Nylon: A synthetic polyamide that has elasticity and can be used, for example, to form fibers / filaments for use in fabrics.
[0801] Open cell foam: Foam that includes cells, i.e., air bubbles that are not completely enclosed, i.e., open cells.
[0802] Polycarbonate: A typical transparent thermoplastic polymer of bisphenol A carbonate.
[0803] Polyethylene: A thermoplastic that is resistant to chemicals and moisture.
[0804] Polyurethane (PU): A plastic material prepared by copolymerizing isocyanates and polyols, which can take the form of foams (polyurethane foams) and rubbers (polyurethane rubbers), for example.
[0805] Semi-open foam: A foam comprising a combination of closed and open (encapsulated) cells.
[0806] Silicone or Silicone Elastomer: Synthetic rubber. In this specification, reference to silicone is a reference to liquid silicone rubber (LSR) or compression molded silicone rubber (CMSR). One form of commercially available LSR is SILASTIC (included in the range of products sold under this trademark), which is manufactured by Dow Corning. Another manufacturer of LSR is Wacker. Unless otherwise specified to the contrary, exemplary forms of LSR have a Shore A (or Type A) indentation hardness ranging from about 35 to about 45 as measured using ASTM D2240.
[0807] Spacer Fabric: A composite construction consisting of two outer fabric substrates joined together and separated by a monofilament middle layer.
[0808] Spandex: An elastic fiber or fabric composed primarily of polyurethane. Use of spandex in commercial products: Lycra.
[0809] Fabric: A material that includes at least one natural or man-made fiber. In this specification, a fabric may refer to any material that is formed into a network of interwoven and / or interlaced fibers. One type of fabric may include a fabric that is constructed by interlacing these fibers using a specific technique. These include weaving, knitting, crocheting, knotting, woven, tufted, or braided. Cloth may be used synonymously with fabric, but may specifically refer to processed pieces of fabric. Other types of fabrics may be constructed using bonding (chemical, mechanical, thermal, etc.), felting, or other nonwoven processes. A fabric produced by one of these methods is fabric-like and may be considered synonymous with fabric for the purposes of this application.
[0810] Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE): A generally low modulus, flexible material that can be stretched at room temperature and recover to approximately its original length when the stress is released. Commercial products using TPE include: Hytrel, Dynaflex, Medalist.
[0811] Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU): A thermoplastic elastomer with high durability and flexibility.
[0812] Mechanical properties
[0813] Resilience: The ability of a material to absorb energy when elastically deformed and release that energy when unloaded.
[0814] Elastic: Will release substantially all of its energy when unloaded. Includes, for example, some silicones and thermoplastic elastomers.
[0815] Hardness: The ability of a material to resist deformation (described, for example, by Young's modulus or the indentation hardness scale measured on a standardized sample size).
[0816] "Soft" materials may include silicone or thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), and may deform easily, for example, under finger pressure.
[0817] "Hard" materials may include polycarbonate, polypropylene, steel or aluminum, and may not deform easily under finger pressure, for example.
[0818] Stiffness (or rigidity) of a structure or component: The ability of a structure or component to resist deformation in response to an applied load. The load can be a force or a moment, such as compression, tension, bending or torsion. A structure or component can provide different resistance in different directions.
[0819] Flexible structure or component: A structure or component that will change shape (eg, bend) when made to support its own weight for a relatively short period of time, such as 1 second.
[0820] Rigid Structure or Component: A structure or component that does not substantially change shape when subjected to the loads normally encountered in use.
[0821] For example, an I-beam may include a different bending stiffness (resistance to bending loads) in a first direction compared to a second orthogonal direction. In another example, a structure or component may be flexible in a first direction and rigid in a second direction.
[0822] anatomy
[0823] The following definitions correspond to the references identified in Figures 1-2.
[0824] Facial anatomy
[0825] Ala: The outer wall or "wing" of each nostril (plural: alar)
[0826] Alar tip: The outermost point on the wing of the nose.
[0827] Alar curvature (or alar ridge) point: The posteriormost point in the base of the curve of each ala, located in the crease formed by the junction of the ala and cheek.
[0828] Auricle: The entire external visible part of the ear.
[0829] (Nose) Skeletal framework: The skeletal framework of the nose includes the nasal bones, the frontal process of the maxilla, and the nasal part of the frontal bone.
[0830] Bridge (nose): The bridge of the nose is the midline protrusion of the nose, extending from the nasal point to the nasal point.
[0831] (Nose) Soft skeleton: The nasal soft skeleton includes the septal, lateral, major and minor cartilages.
[0832] Lip corners: The points at the corners of the mouth.
[0833] Columella: The strip of skin that separates the nostrils and extends from the nasal prominence to the upper lip.
[0834] Columellar angle: The angle between a line drawn through the midpoint of the nostril and a line drawn perpendicular to the Frankfort horizontal plane and intersecting the lower point of the nasal septum.
[0835] Medial canthus: The point where the upper and lower eyelids meet, close to the bridge of the nose.
[0836] Parietal Muscle: The parietal muscle or frontal belly refers to the structure that covers the skull.
[0837] External occipital protuberance: a protuberance on the outer surface of the occipital bone.
[0838] Frankfurt horizontal plane: A line extending from the lowest point of the orbital rim to the point of the left tragus. The tragus is the deepest point in the notch above the tragus of the auricle.
[0839] Glabella: The most prominent point on the forehead in the midsagittal plane located on the soft tissue.
[0840] Interpupillary distance: The distance between the centers of the pupils of the eyes.
[0841] External nasal cartilage: A basically triangular cartilage plate with its upper edge attached to the nasal bone and the frontal process of the maxilla and its lower edge connected to the greater alar cartilage.
[0842] Sublip (midpoint of lower lip): A point on the face between the mouth and the suprachinal point, located in the midsagittal plane.
[0843] Upper lip (midpoint of upper lip): A point on the face between the mouth and nose, located in the midsagittal plane.
[0844] Greater alar cartilage: A cartilaginous plate located beneath the external nasal cartilage. It curves around the front of the nostril. Its posterior end is connected to the frontal process of the maxilla by a tough fibrous membrane that contains three or four minor cartilages of the pterygoid bone.
[0845] Nostrils: The roughly oval-shaped holes that form the entrance to the nasal cavity. The singular form of nostrils (nares) is naris (nostril). The nostrils are separated by the nasal septum.
[0846] Nasolabial Folds or Nasolabial Folds: Folds or grooves of skin that extend from each side of the nose to the corners of the mouth, separating the cheeks from the upper lips.
[0847] Nasolabial angle: The angle between the columella and the upper lip when the nose meets the subnasal point.
[0848] Auricular base: the lowest point where the auricle connects to the facial skin.
[0849] Auricular base: the highest point where the auricle connects to the facial skin.
[0850] Nasal prominence: The most prominent point or tip of the nose which can be identified in a side view of the rest of the head.
[0851] Philtrum: The midline groove extending from the lower border of the nasal septum to the top of the lip in the upper lip division.
[0852] Mental point: located on the soft tissue, the most anterior midpoint of the chin.
[0853] Ridge (nose): The nasal ridge is the midline protuberance of the nose, extending from the nasal bridge point to the nasal protuberance point.
[0854] Sagittal plane: A vertical plane running from anterior (front) to posterior (back). The midsagittal plane is the sagittal plane that divides the body into right and left halves.
[0855] Nasal bridge point: Located on the soft tissue, it is the most concave point overlying the nasofrontal suture.
[0856] Septal Cartilage (Nose): The septal cartilage forms part of the septum and separates the front of the nasal cavity.
[0857] Alar nasal border: The point on the lower edge of the ala base where the ala base joins the skin of the upper (superior) lip.
[0858] Subnasal point: The point on the soft tissue where the columella and upper lip meet in the midsagittal plane.
[0859] Supramental point: The point of greatest concavity on the midline of the lower lip between the midpoint of the lower lip and the premental point of the soft tissue.
[0860] Superb ridge: The bump on the frontal bone above the eyes.
[0861] Temporalis: Muscles of the temporal fossa that lift the jaw.
[0862] Temporomandibular joint: A freely movable joint between the temporal bone and the mandible that permits opening, closing, protrusion, retraction, and lateral movement of the mandible.
[0863] Vermilion upper lip: The red part of the lip, covered by stratified squamous epithelium, which is continuous with the oral mucosa in the gingival labial groove.
[0864] Skull anatomy
[0865] Frontal Bone: The frontal bone includes a large vertical portion (squama frontalis) corresponding to the area called the forehead.
[0866] Lateral cartilage: The part of cartilage outside the septal cartilage and underneath the nasal bones.
[0867] Mandible: The mandible forms the lower jaw. The mental protuberance is the bony protuberance of the lower jaw that forms the chin.
[0868] Masseter minor: The lower portion of the masseter muscle that lifts the jaw.
[0869] Maxilla: The maxilla forms the upper jaw and lies above the mandible and below the eye sockets. The frontal process of the maxilla projects upward from the sides of the nose and forms part of the lateral border.
[0870] Nasal Bones: The nasal bones are two small oval bones that vary in size and form among different individuals; they lie side by side in the middle and upper part of the face and form the "bridge" of the nose at their junction.
[0871] Nasal root: The intersection of the frontal bone and the two nasal bones, the concave area directly between the eyes and on the upper part of the bridge of the nose.
[0872] Occipital Bone: The occipital bone is located at the dorsal and lower part of the skull. It contains an oval hole, the foramen magnum, through which the cranial cavity communicates with the vertebral canal. The curved plate behind the foramen magnum is the squama occipitalis.
[0873] Orbit: The bony cavity in the skull that holds the eyeball.
[0874] Parietal bones: The parietal bones are the bones that when joined together form the roof and sides of the skull.
[0875] Septal cartilage: cartilage of the nasal septum.
[0876] Sphenoid bone: a wedge-shaped bone at the base of the skull.
[0877] Supraorbital foramen: opening in the infraorbital bone for the passage of the supraorbital nerve, artery, and vein.
[0878] Temporal bones: The temporal bones are located at the base and sides of the skull and support the part of the face called the temples.
[0879] Trapezius minor: Triangular superficial muscle of the upper back.
[0880] Zygomatic bones: The face includes two zygomatic bones, which are located in the upper and outer parts of the face and form the prominence of the cheeks.
[0881] user interface
[0882] Frame: A frame will be considered to mean a display housing unit that is loaded in tension between two or more points of connection to a headgear and / or hoop. The frame may seal against the user's face to restrict and / or prevent light from entering and / or exiting.
[0883] Brace: A brace will be taken to mean a form of positioning and stabilizing structure designed for use on the head. For example, a brace may include a collection of one or more supports, straps, and reinforcements configured to position and hold a user interface in place on the user's face to hold a display unit in an operational position in front of the user's face. Some straps are formed of soft, flexible, resilient material, such as a laminate composite of foam and fabric / textile. In some forms, the term headgear may be synonymous with the term brace.
[0884] Film: A film shall be taken to mean a typically thin element which preferably has substantially no resistance to bending, but has resistance to stretching.
[0885] Seal: can be a noun form referring to a structure ("seal") or a verb form indicating an effect ("seal"). Two elements can be constructed and / or arranged to "seal" or achieve a "seal" between them without the need for a separate "seal" element itself.
[0886] Shell: Shell will be taken to mean a curved, relatively thin structure having bending, tensile and compressive stiffness. For example, a curved structural wall of a mask may be a shell. In some forms, the shell may be multi-faceted. In some forms, the shell may be airtight. In some forms, the shell may not be airtight.
[0887] Reinforcement: A reinforcement will be taken to mean a structural component designed to increase the bending resistance of another component in at least one direction.
[0888] Braces: Braces will be considered to be structural components designed to increase the compression resistance of another component in at least one direction.
[0889] Rotator (noun): A subassembly of components configured to rotate preferably independently about a common axis, preferably under low torque. In one form, the rotator may be configured to rotate through an angle of at least 360 degrees. In another form, the rotator may be configured to rotate through an angle of less than 360 degrees.
[0890] Tie (noun): A structure designed to resist tension.
[0891] Structural shape
[0892] Products according to the present technology may include one or more three-dimensional mechanical structures, such as a mask cushion or an impeller. The three-dimensional structure may be defined by two-dimensional surfaces. These surfaces may be distinguished using markings to describe the associated surface orientation, position, function, or some other characteristic. For example, a structure may include one or more of a front surface, a rear surface, an inner surface, and an outer surface. In another example, a seal-forming structure may include a face-contacting (e.g., outer) surface and a separate non-face-contacting (e.g., underside or inner) surface. In another example, a structure may include a first surface and a second surface.
[0893] To facilitate the description of the shape of three-dimensional structures and surfaces, we first consider a cross section through the surface of the structure at a point p. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3E , illustrates an example of a cross section at a point p on a surface, and the resulting plane curve. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3E The outward normal vector at point p is also shown. The outward normal vector at point p points away from the surface. In some examples, we describe the surface from the perspective of an imaginary little person standing upright on the surface.
[0894] One-dimensional curvature
[0895] The curvature of a plane curve at p can be described as having a sign (eg, positive, negative) and a magnitude (eg, 1 / radius of a circle that just touches the curve at p).
[0896] Positive curvature: If the curve at point p turns toward the outward normal, the curvature at that point is taken to be positive (if the imaginary person were to leave point p, they would have to be walking uphill). Figure 3A (and Figure 3B Compared with the relatively large positive curvature) and Figure 3B (and Figure 3A The positive curvature is relatively small compared to the negative curvature.) Such curves are often called concave curves.
[0897] Zero curvature: If the curve at point p is a straight line, the curvature will be zero (if the imaginary person leaves point p, they can walk horizontally without going up or down). Figure 3C .
[0898] Negative curvature: If the curve at point p turns away from the outward normal, then the curvature in that direction at that point will be negative (if the imaginary person were to leave point p, they would have to be walking downhill). Figure 3D (and Figure 3E Compared to the relatively small negative curvature) and Figure 3E (and Figure 3F Such curves are often called convex curves.
[0899] Curvature of a 2D surface
[0900] A description of a shape at a given point on a two-dimensional surface according to the present technology may include multiple normal cross sections. Multiple cross sections may cut the surface in a plane including an outward normal ("normal plane"), and each cross section may be taken in a different direction. Each cross section produces a planar curve with a corresponding curvature. The different curvatures at the point may have the same sign or different signs. Each curvature at the point has an amplitude, such as a relatively small amplitude. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3E The plane curve in can be an example of such multiple cross sections at specific points.
[0901] Principal curvatures and principal directions: The directions of the normal planes where the curvature of the curve takes its maximum and minimum values are called principal directions. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3E In the example of Figure 3A and the minimum curvature occurs at Figure 3E Therefore Figure 3A and Figure 3E is the cross section in the principal direction. The principal curvature at p is the curvature in the principal direction.
[0902] Region of a surface: A set of connected points on a surface. The points in a region can have similar properties, such as curvature or sign.
[0903] Saddle region: A region where the principal curvatures at each point have opposite signs, i.e. one is positive and the other is negative (depending on which way the imaginary person turns, they may be going uphill or downhill).
[0904] Dome region: The region where the principal curvatures at every point have the same sign, e.g. both are positive (a "concave dome") or both are negative (a "convex dome").
[0905] Cylindrical region: A region where one of the principal curvatures is zero (or is zero, for example, within manufacturing tolerances) and the other principal curvature is non-zero.
[0906] Planar region: A surface region where both principal curvatures are zero (or are zero, for example, within manufacturing tolerances).
[0907] Edge of a surface: The boundary or limit of a surface or area.
[0908] Path: In some forms of the present technology, a "path" will be taken to mean a path in the mathematical topological sense, e.g. a continuous spatial curve from f(0) to f(1) on a surface. In some forms of the present technology, a "path" may be described as a route or journey comprising, e.g., a set of points on a surface. (A hypothetical person's path is where they walk on a surface, and is analogous to a garden path).
[0909] Path length: In some forms of the present technology, "path length" will be taken to mean the distance along the surface from f(0) to f(1), i.e., the distance along a path on the surface. There may be more than one path between two points on the surface, and such paths may have different path lengths. (The path length of a hypothetical person would be the distance they would walk along a path on the surface).
[0910] Straight-line distance: Straight-line distance is the distance between two points on a surface, but regardless of the surface. On a planar surface, there will be a path on the surface that has the same path length as the straight-line distance between two points on the surface. On a non-planar surface, there may not be a path that has the same path length as the straight-line distance between two points. (For an imaginary person, straight-line distance would correspond to the distance as a "straight line".
[0911] Space Curve
[0912] Space curves: Unlike plane curves, space curves do not have to lie in any particular plane. Space curves can be closed, i.e., have no endpoints. Space curves can be thought of as one-dimensional segments of three-dimensional space. An imaginary person walking on a strand of DNA helix walks along a space curve. A typical human left ear includes a helix, which is a left-handed helix, see Figure 3M The typical human right ear includes a helix that is a right-handed helix, see Figure 3N . Fig.3O A right-handed helix is shown. The edge of a structure, such as the edge of a membrane or impeller, can follow a space curve. In general, a space curve can be described by the curvature and twist at each point on the space curve. Torque is a measure of how the curve turns out of the plane. Torque has a sign and a magnitude. The twist at a point on a space curve can be characterized with reference to the tangent vector, normal vector, and binormal vector at that point.
[0913] Tangent unit vector (or unit tangent vector): For each point on a curve, the vector at that point specifies the direction from that point as well as the magnitude. A tangent unit vector is a unit vector that points in the same direction as the curve at that point. If an imaginary person were flying along a curve and fell off her vehicle at a particular point, the direction of the tangent vector is the direction she would be traveling.
[0914] Unit Normal Vector: As the imaginary person moves along the curve, this tangent vector itself changes. The unit vector that changes in the same direction as the tangent vector is called the unit principal normal vector. It is perpendicular to the tangent vector.
[0915] Binormal unit vector: The binormal unit vector is perpendicular to both the tangent vector and the principal normal vector. Its direction can be determined by the right-hand rule (see e.g. Figure 3L ) or, alternatively, by the left-hand rule ( Figure 3K)Sure.
[0916] Osculating plane: The plane containing the unit tangent vector and the unit principal normal vector. Figure 3K and Figure 3L .
[0917] Twist of a space curve: The twist at a point of a space curve is the magnitude of the rate of change of the binormal unit vector at that point. It measures how much the curve deviates from the osculating plane. A space curve that lies within the plane has zero twist. A space curve that deviates from the osculating plane by a relatively small amount will have a relatively small magnitude of twist (e.g., a gently inclined spiral path). A space curve that deviates from the osculating plane by a relatively large amount will have a relatively large magnitude of twist (e.g., a sharply inclined spiral path). Reference Fig.3O , since T2>T1, Fig.3O The magnitude of the twist near the top coil of the helix is greater than Fig.3O The amplitude of the twist of the bottom coil of the helix.
[0918] refer to Figure 3M According to the right-hand rule, a space curve that turns in the direction of the right-hand binormal can be considered to have right-hand positive twist (e.g., Fig.3O A space curve that turns away from the right binormal direction can be considered to have right-handed negative twist (e.g., a left-handed helix).
[0919] Equivalently, and referring to the left-hand rule (see Figure 3K ), a space curve that turns in the direction of the left-handed binormal can be considered to have a left-handed positive twist (e.g., a left-handed helix). Thus left-handed positive is equivalent to right-handed negative.
[0920] hole
[0921] A surface may have one-dimensional pores, for example pores bounded by a plane curve or by a space curve. A thin structure (e.g., a membrane) having pores may be described as having one-dimensional pores. See, e.g. Figure 3F A one-dimensional hole in the surface of the structure shown is defined by a planar curve.
[0922] A structure may have two-dimensional pores, such as pores defined by a surface. For example, an inflatable tire has a two-dimensional pore defined by the inner surface of the tire. In another example, a bladder having a cavity for air or gel may have a two-dimensional pore. In yet another example, a conduit may include a one-dimensional pore (e.g., at its inlet or at its outlet) and a two-dimensional pore defined by the inner surface of the conduit. See also through Figure 3H The two-dimensional pores of the shown structure are defined by the shown surfaces.
[0923] Other notes
[0924] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.
[0925] Unless the context clearly indicates and where a numerical range is provided, it is understood that each intervening value between the upper and lower limits of that range, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit, and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range, is encompassed within the technology. The upper and lower limits of these intermediate ranges may independently be included in the intermediate ranges and are also encompassed within the technology, subject to any specifically excluded limits in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both limits, ranges excluding one or both of those included limits are also encompassed within the technology.
[0926] Furthermore, where a value or values are set forth herein as implemented as part of the technology, it should be understood that such values may be approximate unless otherwise indicated, and that such values may be used to any appropriate number of significant digits to the extent that practical technical implementation may allow or require it.
[0927] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the technology belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can also be used in the practice or testing of the technology, a limited number of exemplary methods and materials are described herein.
[0928] When a specific material is identified as being used to construct a component, obvious alternative materials having similar properties may be used as substitutes. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, any and all components described herein are understood to be capable of being manufactured and thus may be manufactured together or separately.
[0929] It must be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural equivalents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0930] All publications mentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, to disclose and describe methods and / or materials as the subject of those publications. The publications discussed herein are provided only for their disclosures before the filing date of the present application. This article should not be construed as admitting that due to previous inventions, the present technology has no right to precede such publications. In addition, the publication date provided may be different from the actual publication date, which may need to be confirmed independently.
[0931] The terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be understood to refer to elements, components or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the mentioned elements, components or steps may be present or utilized or combined with other elements, components or steps not explicitly mentioned.
[0932] The subject headings used in the detailed description are included only for the convenience of the reader's reference and should not be used to limit the subject matter found in the entire disclosure or claims. The subject headings should not be used to interpret the scope of the claims or claim limitations.
[0933] Although the technology of this article has been described with reference to specific examples, it should be understood that these examples are merely illustrations of the principles and applications of the technology. In some cases, terms and symbols may imply specific details that are not required for practicing this technology. For example, although the terms "first" and "second" may be used, unless otherwise specified, they are not intended to indicate any order, but can be used to distinguish different elements. In addition, although the process steps in the method can be described or illustrated in order, this order is not necessary. Those skilled in the art will recognize that this order can be modified and / or its various aspects can be performed simultaneously or even synchronously.
[0934] It is therefore to be understood that numerous modifications may be made to the illustrative examples and that other arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the present technology.
[0935] Selected reference numeral list
[0936] 100 users
[0937] 1000 Head-mounted display system
[0938] 1100 Interface connection structure
[0939] 1102 Chassis
[0940] 1104 Interface connection structure clip
[0941] 1110 Face joint
[0942] 1112 Forehead
[0943] 1114 Side part
[0944] 1116 Cheek
[0945] 1120 Ring section
[0946] 1130 Pad
[0947] 1200 Head-mounted display unit
[0948] 1205 Display unit housing
[0949] 1210 Arm
[0950] 1213 Guide
[0951] 1220 Display
[0952] 1230 Upper surface
[0953] 1232 Lower surface
[0954] 1234 Left side
[0955] 1236 Right side
[0956] 1238 front surface
[0957] 1240 Lens
[0958] 1250 Temporal connector
[0959] 1254 Eyelets
[0960] 1256 Adjustable part
[0961] 1258 Accommodation
[0962] 1260 Pivot connection
[0963] 1270 Controller
[0964] 1272 Speakers
[0965] 1274 Power Supply
[0966] 1276 Control System
[0967] 1278 Low Power System Battery
[0968] 1280 Main Battery
[0969] 1282 Real-time clock
[0970] 1284 Orientation Sensor
[0971] 1286 Processing System
[0972] 1288 Battery support part
[0973] 1290 Control system support
[0974] 1292 Communication Systems
[0975] 1294 External Port
[0976] 1300 Positioning and stabilizing structures
[0977] 1310 Upper section
[0978] 1320 Lower section
[0979] 1330 Outer belt part
[0980] 1340 Top band part
[0981] 1350 rear support part
[0982] 1360 Forehead Support
[0983] 1400 Identification Device
[0984] 1410 Interface connection structure system
[0985] 1412 Interface Power Supply
[0986] 1414 Interface Battery
[0987] 1416 Interface Processing System
[0988] 1418 First Interface Communication System
[0989] 1420 Second Interface Communication System
[0990] 1422 Antenna
[0991] 1424 Interface Controller
[0992] 1426 PCB Section
[0993] 1430 Haptic Output Devices
[0994] 1432 Actuator
[0995] 1434 Distribution Components
[0996] 1436 Internal Cable
[0997] 1438 Interconnect Cable
[0998] 1440 interface port
[0999] 1450 Adjustable part
[1000] 1450a First adjustable part
[1001] 1450b Second adjustable section
[1002] 1460 Network
[1003] 1500 user devices.
Claims
1. A head-mounted display system, comprising: a head mounted display unit including a display; an interfacing structure constructed and arranged to be in opposing relation to a face of a user in use, wherein the interfacing structure is configured to be releasably secured to the head mounted display unit; as well as a positioning and stabilising structure constructed and arranged to retain the head mounted display unit in an operable position on the user's head in use; The head mounted display system is characterized in that at least one of the interfacing structure and the positioning and stabilizing structure comprises at least one tactile output device.
2. A head mounted display system according to claim 1, wherein the interface connection structure includes a facial engaging portion.
3. The head mounted display system of claim 2, wherein the face engaging portion comprises a cushion and a cover over the cushion, and the at least one haptic output device is disposed in the cushion. 4 . The head mounted display system of claim 2 , wherein the at least one haptic output device comprises an actuator and a dispensing member.
5. The head mounted display system of claim 4, wherein the distribution member extends from a forehead portion of the face engaging portion of the interface connection structure toward a cheek portion of the face engaging portion.
6. The head mounted display system of claim 1 , wherein the interface connection structure is configured to be releasably secured to the head mounted display unit, and Wherein at least one of the interfacing structure and the positioning and stabilising structure comprises at least one identification device, the at least one identification device comprising data associated with the user.
7. A head-mounted display system according to claim 6, wherein the head-mounted display unit includes at least one communication device, and the at least one communication device is configured to communicate with the at least one identification device to access the data associated with the user.
8. The head mounted display system of claim 1, wherein the head mounted display unit is configured to communicate via at least a first communication technology, and Wherein the interface connection structure includes at least one interface connection structure communication device, and the at least one interface connection structure communication device is configured to communicate with a remote device via a second communication technology and communicate with the head-mounted display unit via the first communication technology.
9. The head mounted display system of claim 8, wherein the second communication technology is a wireless communication technology.
10. The head-mounted display system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the interfacing structure and the positioning and stabilizing structure comprises at least one adjustable portion and at least one actuator, the at least one actuator being configured to control movement of the adjustable portion.