Video display device

Abstract

To provide a video display device that allows appropriate adjustment of the state of contact of display means with a user, and yet can reduce the device size without the necessity to ensure the interval between the display means and support means and restrictions on the size and shape.SOLUTION: A video display device comprises: a video display section 100 that displays a video; a head-mounted unit 200 that supports the video display section 100; and a contact section 250 that is provided on the head-mounted unit 200 and contact with a user. Even when the state of arrangement of the contact section 250 relative to the head-mounted unit 200 is changed, the relative positions of the video display section 100 and the head-mounted unit 200 is kept unchanged.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a video display device. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, head-mounted displays (HMDs) have come into use as video display devices that are worn on the user's head and display images in front of the user's eyes. HMDs are used as devices that allow users to experience virtual reality (VR) and mixed reality (MR) because they allow users to easily view images on a large screen and facilitate stereoscopic viewing. HMDs are worn on the user's head for hands-free use and are expected to be used for verifying various tasks.

[0003] In addition to head-mounted devices like HMDs, handheld devices (HHDs) are also used as image display devices that allow users to experience VR and MR. HHDs have a grip that allows the user to hold the image display, making them easier to use for observation than HMDs. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 3576985 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In an HMD, as in Patent Document 1, a position adjustment mechanism is disposed between the head-mounted unit worn on the user's head and the image display unit, and position adjustment is performed by changing the relative position of the head-mounted unit and the image display unit. However, in this case, since the head-mounted unit and the image display unit do not interfere with each other, problems arise, such as the need to ensure a distance between them, restrictions on their respective shapes, and an increase in the size of the device. The same situation applies to HHDs, and if a position adjustment mechanism is disposed between the grip unit and the image display unit, problems arise, such as the need to ensure a distance between them, restrictions on their respective shapes, and an increase in the size of the device.

[0006] In view of the above-mentioned problems, the present disclosure aims to provide an image display device that allows for appropriate adjustment of the contact state of the display means with the user, while also allowing for miniaturization of the device size without being restricted by the need to ensure a distance between the display means and the support means or by the size and shape of each. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The image display device of the present disclosure comprises a display means for displaying an image, a support means for supporting the display means, and a contact means provided on the support means for contacting the user, and the relative position of the display means and the support means remains unchanged even if the positioning of the contact means relative to the support means is changed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present disclosure, an image display device is realized that allows for appropriate adjustment of the contact state of the display means with the user, while also allowing for miniaturization of the device size without being restricted by the need to ensure spacing between the display means and the support means or the size and shape of each. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing an image display unit of an image display device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a front view showing how the hood of the video display unit is operated. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the opposite side of the video display unit to that shown in FIG. [Figure 4] 1 is a schematic diagram showing an image display device in the form of an HMD worn on a user's head according to a first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the vicinity of a forehead contact portion disposed in the head-mounted unit. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a side view showing the state in which the position of the front head contact portion of the head mounted unit has been adjusted. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a forehead rest holding mechanism and its peripheral components. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing the forehead rest holding mechanism and its peripheral components, seen from a different direction than that of FIG. 7. [Figure 9] 10 is a schematic diagram showing upper and lower frames and their peripheral components included in the forehead rest holding mechanism. FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a comparative example of the image display device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a video display device according to a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an image display device in the form of an HMD worn on the head of a user according to a second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the vicinity of a forehead contact portion disposed in the head-mounted unit. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a video display device according to a modified example of the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] -Basic configuration of the image display device in various embodiments- Before specifically disclosing the embodiments, the basic configuration of the image display device in each embodiment will be described.

[0011] The image display device according to the present disclosure comprises a display means for displaying an image, a support means for supporting the display means, and a contact means disposed on the support means and contacting the user's body. The support means may be in the form of an HMD connected to the display means and worn on the user's head, or an HHD connected to the display means and held by the user. The support means is preferably detachable from the display means. In this image display device, the relative position between the display means and the support means remains unchanged even if the positioning of the contact means relative to the support means is changed. Therefore, restrictions such as the spacing between the display means and the support means are unnecessary. This configuration allows for appropriate adjustment of the contact state of the display means relative to the user by the contact means, while enabling the device size to be reduced without being bound by restrictions such as the spacing between the display means and the support means or the size and shape of each.

[0012] The image display device according to the present disclosure has a configuration including a position adjustment mechanism that moves the contact means relative to the support means, and a configuration in which a plurality of contact means of different types are provided so as to be detachable from the support means. The former will be described in detail in the first embodiment, and the latter in detail in the second embodiment.

[0013] In the former configuration, the abutment means is arranged to be movable relative to the support means by a position adjustment mechanism, as a positioning state of the abutment means relative to the support means. Specifically, the abutment means is independently translationally movable relative to the support means in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction by the position adjustment mechanism. Here, the display means has an eyepiece optical system, the first direction is a direction along the optical axis direction of the eyepiece optical system, and the second direction is a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction. Furthermore, the abutment means is rotatable relative to the support means in a third direction independent of the translational movement in the first direction and the translational movement in the second direction. In this way, the image display device according to the present disclosure is independently movable in the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction. Therefore, movement in one direction does not affect movement in the other directions, and the procedure for adjusting the position of the abutment means is clear, enabling easy and reliable position adjustment.

[0014] In the latter configuration, the contact means are arranged interchangeably with respect to the support means, as a positioning state of the contact means relative to the support means. Specifically, the contact means differ in at least one of height and thickness as described above. By providing a plurality of such support means, the user can select and wear the support means that best suits their body, allowing for comfortable video observation.

[0015] Specific embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0016] -First embodiment- FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an image display section 100 of an image display device according to this embodiment. Image display unit 100 is a display means in the present disclosure and has lenses 10L and 10R. A user looks through lenses 10L and 10R to observe an image. Lenses 10L and 10R are prisms, lenses, etc. that magnify and guide images on an LCD, OLED, etc. (not shown) provided within image display unit 100. Hoods 11L and 11R are provided around lenses 10L and 10R.

[0017] FIG. 2 is a front view showing how the hoods 11L and 11R of the image display unit 100 are operated. The user can adjust the positions of the lenses 10L and 10R left and right to match their own interpupillary distance by operating the hoods 11L and 11R. Figure 2(a) shows the case where the interpupillary distance is adjusted to a wider distance, and Figure 2(b) shows the case where the interpupillary distance is adjusted to a narrower distance.

[0018] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the opposite side of the image display unit 100 to that shown in FIG. The video display unit 100 has imaging cameras 20L and 20R and alignment cameras 21L and 21R. The imaging cameras 20L and 20R are stereo cameras that capture images of the surrounding real world to display to the user through lenses 10L and 10R. The alignment cameras 21L and 21R are stereo cameras that capture the position and orientation of the video display unit 100 by using feature points such as markers and object edges from the captured images. The alignment cameras 21L and 21R capture monochrome images and aim to achieve high-precision, highly fault-tolerant alignment by utilizing a wide angle of view, a high shutter speed, a long baseline length, etc.

[0019] In this embodiment, the alignment cameras 21L and 21R are provided separately from the imaging cameras 20L and 20R, but it is also possible to acquire display images and alignment information using only the imaging cameras 20L and 20R. Also, the alignment cameras 21L and 21R may be replaced with distance sensors that use ultrasonic waves, infrared rays, or the like.

[0020] The image display unit 100 exchanges position information and images with an external PC or controller (not shown) via a cable 90, and generates and displays a display image by, for example, superimposing CG on a real image. The user can observe the image through the lenses 10L and 10R.

[0021] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the state in which an image display device in the form of an HMD according to this embodiment is worn on the head of a user, where (a) is a perspective view and (b) is a side view. This image display device includes an image display section 100 and a head-mounted unit 200 on which a forehead contact section 250 is arranged, and the image display section 100 is connected to and fixed to the head-mounted unit 200. By wearing the head-mounted unit 200 connected to the image display 100 on the user's head, the user can observe images hands-free.

[0022] The head mounted unit 200 is one form of the support means in the present disclosure, and has a rear head support portion 270 and belt members 290L, 290R connected thereto, and an adjustment dial 280 provided on the rear head support portion 270. A front head contact portion 250, which is the contact means in the present disclosure, is arranged on the head mounted unit 200 so as to be movable relative to the head mounted unit 200. The user adjusts the belt members 290L, 290R by appropriately rotating the adjustment dial 280, and the user's head is fixed so as to be sandwiched between the front head contact portion 250 and the rear head support portion 270.

[0023] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the vicinity of the forehead contact portion 250 disposed on the head mounted unit 200. As shown in FIG. The head-mounted unit 200 includes a forehead support holding mechanism 260, which serves as a position adjustment mechanism in the present disclosure and moves the forehead contact portion 250. The forehead support holding mechanism 260 includes a front housing 201, a front-to-back adjustment dial 220, and an up-to-down adjustment dial 230. The forehead contact portion 250 is disposed on the front housing 201 so as to be movable relative to the front housing 201. Using the configuration described below, the user can independently translate the position of the forehead contact portion 250 in the front-to-back direction by appropriately rotating the front-to-back adjustment dial 220, and the position of the forehead contact portion 250 in the up-to-down direction by appropriately rotating the up-to-down adjustment dial 230. Here, the fore-to-back direction is a direction parallel to the optical axis direction of the lenses 10L and 10R of the image display unit 100 connected to the head-mounted unit 200, and the up-to-down direction is a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction. Furthermore, the tilt of the forehead contact portion 250 can be adjusted by a rotational movement described below to match the angle of the user's forehead.

[0024] 6 is a side view showing the state in which the position of the front head contact portion 250 has been adjusted in the head-mounted unit 200. (a) illustrates the case in which the front head contact portion 250 has been moved downward and closer to the user's head, and (b) illustrates the case in which the front head contact portion 250 has been moved upward and away from the user's head.

[0025] The position and orientation of the front head contact unit 250 changes relative to the head mounted unit 200 due to the movement operation of the forehead rest holding mechanism 260. The image display unit 100 is connected to the head mounted unit 200, and in this example, the image display unit 100 is superimposed on and fixed to the head mounted unit 200. In the example of FIG. 6, the image display unit 100 is superimposed so that the top of the image display unit 100 is at approximately the same height as the top of the head mounted unit 200. Because the image display unit 100 and the head mounted unit 200 are connected and fixed, even if the front head contact unit 250 moves relative to the head mounted unit 200, the relative positions of the image display unit 100 and the head mounted unit 200 remain unchanged.

[0026] As the position and orientation of the forehead contact portion 250 changes with respect to the head mounted unit 200, the relative position of the image display unit 100, which is fixed integrally with the head mounted unit 200, changes with respect to the user's head and eyes. This configuration allows the user to adjust the forehead contact portion 250 to a position where the user wants to contact the head and where the user can easily observe the image display unit 100. If a position and orientation adjustment mechanism such as the forehead rest holding mechanism 260 is not provided, the user would need to shift the entire head mounted unit 200 or re-attach the head mounted unit 200 so that the image display unit 100 is in a position where it is easy to observe. In contrast, in this embodiment, the user can wear the head mounted unit 200 in a position of their choice to some extent, and then adjust the position and orientation of the forehead contact portion 250 using the forehead rest holding mechanism 260 to place the image display unit 100 in the desired position.

[0027] The front-to-back translational movement, up-down translational movement, and rotational movement of the forehead contact portion 250 by the forehead rest holding mechanism 260 will be described below.

[0028] First, the forward / backward translational movement will be described. Figure 7 is a perspective view showing the forehead support holding mechanism 260 and its peripheral components, where (a) shows the case where the front head contact portion 250 is translated forward, and (b) shows the case where the front head contact portion 250 is translated backward.

[0029] The forehead rest holding mechanism 260 has a front-rear frame 202 that holds the up-down adjustment dial 230, a front-rear adjustment dial 220 held by the front housing 201, front-rear shafts 224L and 224R, and a drive shaft 225. When the front-rear adjustment dial 220 is rotated, a gear 226 integrated with the front-rear adjustment dial 220 rotates, and the drive shaft 225 rotates via a gear 221 provided on the drive shaft 225. As a result, gears 222L and 222R provided on the drive shaft 225 drive racks 223L and 223R provided on the front-rear frame 202, and the front-rear frame 202 moves along the front-rear shafts 224L and 224R. At this time, the axial directions of the front-rear shafts 224L and 224R and the direction in which the front-rear frame 202 moves are aligned with the optical axis directions of the lenses 10L and 10R of the image display unit 100. The forward direction is illustrated by the arrow in Fig. 7(a), and the backward direction is illustrated by the arrow in Fig. 7(b). By providing the front / rear adjustment dial 220 on the top surface of the front housing 201 and on the left and right ends as shown in Fig. 7, when a user wears an HMD-type image display device, the front / rear adjustment dial 220 is naturally positioned where the user's fingers can rest, improving operability.

[0030] In this embodiment, the front-rear translational movement is realized by a dial, gears, and rack, but the front-rear translational movement can also be performed by other configurations such as a lever, cam plate, etc. In this case, too, it is desirable that the direction of the front-rear translational movement coincides with the optical axis direction of the lenses 10L, 10R of the image display device 100.

[0031] Next, the vertical translational movement will be described. Figure 8 is a perspective view showing the forehead support holding mechanism 260 and its peripheral components, where (a) shows the case where the forehead contact portion 250 is translated downward, and (b) shows the case where the forehead contact portion 250 is translated upward.

[0032] The forehead support holding mechanism 260 has an upper and lower frame 231, an upper and lower adjustment dial 230, a gear 232 integrally provided with the upper and lower adjustment dial 230, and a rack 233 integrally provided with the upper and lower frame 231. When the upper and lower adjustment dial 230 is rotated, the gear 232 rotates, driving the rack 233, and the upper and lower frame 231 moves up and down. This vertical movement is perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the lenses 10L and 10R, which is the movement direction of the front and rear frame 202 described above. The arrow in FIG. 8(a) indicates the downward direction, and the arrow in FIG. 8(b) indicates the upward direction. The forehead contact portion 250 is held by the upper and lower frame 231 and moves translationally in the vertical direction together with the upper and lower frame 231 relative to the front and rear frame 202.

[0033] Next, the rotation operation will be described. Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing the upper and lower frames 231 and their peripheral components included in the forehead support holding mechanism 260. (a) is a perspective view, (b) is a side view showing an example of rotation to a large tilt angle, (b) is a side view showing an example of rotation to a medium tilt angle, and (c) is a side view showing an example of rotation to a small tilt angle.

[0034] The forehead contact portion 250 is rotatably held by shafts 251L and 251R relative to the upper and lower frames 231. The forehead contact portion 250 is provided with a plate 252 having a groove, and a stopper 240 is provided which is urged toward the plate 252 by a spring 241 which is movably provided on the upper and lower frames 231. The rotation angle of the forehead contact portion 250 is maintained by the stopper 240 and the groove of the plate 252, and the tilt angle of the forehead contact portion 250 can be changed by a rotational operation which changes the position of the groove of the plate 252 which meshes with the stopper 240.

[0035] As described above, in the HMD-type image display device according to this embodiment, the image display unit 100 is connected to and fixed to the head mounting unit 200. Therefore, even if the forehead contact unit 250 moves relative to the head mounting unit 200 by driving the forehead rest holding mechanism 260, the relative positions of the image display unit 100 and the head mounting unit 200 do not change. The forehead rest holding mechanism 260 causes the forehead contact unit 250 to perform translational movements in the front-to-back direction, which is parallel to the optical axis direction of the image display unit 100, and in the up-to-down direction, which is perpendicular to the optical axis direction, and rotational movements at a predetermined tilt angle, relative to the head mounting unit 200. These movements are performed independently, and the position of the forehead contact unit 250 is adjusted.

[0036] Here, a comparative example of the image display device according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing a comparative example of the image display device according to this embodiment, where (a) is a perspective view and (b) is a side view.

[0037] In the image display device of the comparative example, the image display unit 1100 is moved up and down by a dial 1230 between the image display unit 1100 and the head mounted unit 1200, and the image display unit 1100 is moved forward and backward by a gear 1130. This adjusts the position of the image display unit 1100 and the user's eyeball. Because the position and distance between the image display unit 1100 and the head mounted unit 1200 change due to the position adjustment, a sufficient gap must be provided between them. This imposes restrictions on the shapes of the image display unit 1100 and the head mounted unit 1200, and on the need to shift the contact position of the head mounted unit 1200 with the user's head upward. Furthermore, a light-shielding member must be provided to prevent external light from entering through the gap between the image display unit 1100 and the head mounted unit 1200 and interfering with observation. However, because the relative positions and attitudes of the image display unit 1100 and the head mounted unit 1200 change, it is difficult to appropriately position the light-shielding member.

[0038] In contrast, the HMD-type image display device according to this embodiment is configured so that the relative positions of the image display unit 100 and the head-mounted unit 200 do not change even when the forehead contact portion 250 moves, eliminating the need for a gap between them as in the image display device of the comparative example. This allows for the overall image display device to be made smaller. Furthermore, a light-shielding member as in the comparative example is not required, or if a light-shielding member is provided, it need only be simply fixed in place.

[0039] Furthermore, in the image display device of this embodiment, there is no need to provide the gap, and in this embodiment, the image display unit 100 is superimposed on the head-mounted unit 200, for example, so that the top of the image display unit 100 is at approximately the same height as the top of the head-mounted unit 200. This configuration increases the heat dissipation area of ​​the image display unit 100, making it easier to take measures against heat.

[0040] Furthermore, in the image display device of this embodiment, when adjusting the position of the forehead contact portion 250, translational movement of the forehead contact portion 250 in the front-to-back direction parallel to the optical axis of the image display unit 100 and in the up-to-down direction perpendicular to the optical axis, as well as rotation of the forehead contact portion 250, can be performed independently. This allows for the simplification of the adjustment procedure and the reduction of adjustment time, since performing one of the three types of position adjustments does not require simultaneously changing the other position adjustments. Unlike the comparative example, there is no need to shift the contact position of the head-mounted unit 1200 with the user's head upward. Here, the angle of the forehead contact portion 250 relative to the head-mounted unit 200 can be adjusted by rotating the forehead contact portion 250, which contributes to facilitating adjustment by easily aligning the optical axis and the angle of the user's line of sight when wearing the device on the head.

[0041] It is also highly convenient for users who wear eyeglasses and those who do not. For example, by moving the image display unit 100 linearly in the optical axis direction, it becomes easy to distinguish between cases where the image display unit 100 is moved away from the eye in order to use the image display device while wearing eyeglasses, and where the image display unit 100 is moved as close as possible to the eye without wearing eyeglasses to improve the angle of view and image quality.

[0042] According to this embodiment, it is possible to appropriately adjust the contact state of the image display unit 100 with the user, while also making it possible to reduce the size of the device without having to ensure the distance between the image display unit 100 and the head-mounted unit 200 or being restricted by the size and shape of each unit.

[0043] -Variations- Various modifications of the image display device according to this embodiment will be described below. FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an image display device according to a modified example of this embodiment, where (a) is a perspective view and (b) is a side view.

[0044] In this modification, a handheld HHD image display device is disclosed. This image display device includes an image display unit 100 similar to that of the first embodiment, and a grip unit 300, which is one form of the support means in this disclosure and has a forehead contact portion 350 disposed thereon. The image display unit 100 is connected and fixed to the grip unit 300.

[0045] The grip unit 300 has a housing 301 to which the video display unit 100 is connected and fixed, and gripping parts 302L and 302R, which are fixed to each side of the housing 301 and can be held by a user with one or both hands. The gripping parts 302L and 302R are gently bending rod-shaped members, and one end of each is connected to each side of the housing 301. A forehead contact part 350, which is the contact means in the present disclosure, is arranged on the grip unit 300 so that it can move relative to the gripping unit 300. The gripping parts 302L and 302R are gently bending handles, so that the user can hold the video display unit 100 with their arms bent in a natural position without raising their elbows, allowing for stable holding without fatigue.

[0046] The grip unit 300 has a forehead support holding mechanism 360, which is a position adjustment means in the present disclosure and moves the forehead contact portion 350. The forehead support holding mechanism 360 has the same configuration as in the first embodiment, namely, a housing 301 and a front-to-back adjustment dial (not shown) and an up-to-down adjustment dial 330 provided within the housing 301. The forehead contact portion 350 is disposed on the housing 301 so as to be movable relative to the housing 301. As in the first embodiment, the user can independently translate the position of the forehead contact portion 350 in the front-to-back direction by appropriately rotating the front-to-back adjustment dial, and the position of the forehead contact portion 350 in the up-to-down direction by appropriately rotating the up-to-down adjustment dial 330. Here, the front-to-back direction is a direction parallel to the optical axis direction of the lenses 10L and 10R of the image display unit 100 connected to the grip unit 300, and the up-to-down direction is a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction. Furthermore, similar to the first embodiment, the forehead contact portion 350 is configured to be able to adjust its inclination independently of the above-mentioned translational movements by virtue of its rotational configuration in accordance with the angle of the user's forehead.

[0047] The position and orientation of the forehead contact portion 350 changes relative to the grip unit 300 due to the movement operation of the forehead support holding mechanism 360. The video display unit 100 is connected to the grip unit 300, and in this example, the video display unit 100 is superimposed on and fixed to the grip unit 300. In the example of FIG. 11 , the video display unit 100 is superimposed so that its upper part is at approximately the same height as the upper part of the grip unit 300. Because the video display unit 100 and the grip unit 300 are connected and fixed, even if the forehead contact portion 350 moves relative to the grip unit 300, the relative positions of the video display unit 100 and the grip unit 300 remain unchanged.

[0048] By changing the position and orientation of the forehead contact portion 350 relative to the grip unit 300, the relative position of the image display unit 100, which is fixed integrally with the grip unit 300, and the user's head and eyes changes. This configuration allows the forehead contact portion 350 to be adjusted to a position where the user wants to contact the head and where the user can easily observe the image display unit 100. If a position and orientation adjustment mechanism such as the forehead support holding mechanism 360 is not provided, the user would have to, for example, shift the entire grip unit 300 so that the image display unit 100 is in a position where it is easy to observe. In contrast, in this embodiment, the user can adjust the position and orientation of the forehead contact portion 350 using the grip unit 300, and place the image display unit 100 in a desired position.

[0049] As described above, in the HHD-type image display device according to the modified example, the image display unit 100 is connected to and fixed to the grip unit 300. Therefore, even if the forehead contact unit 350 moves relative to the grip unit 300 by driving the forehead rest holding mechanism 360, the relative position between the image display unit 100 and the grip unit 500 does not change. The forehead rest holding mechanism 360 causes the forehead contact unit 350 to perform translational movements in the front-to-back direction, which is parallel to the optical axis direction of the image display unit 100, and in the up-to-down direction, which is perpendicular to the optical axis direction, and rotational movements at a predetermined tilt angle, relative to the grip unit 300. These movements are performed independently, and the position of the forehead contact unit 350 is adjusted.

[0050] According to the modified example, it is possible to appropriately adjust the contact state of the image display unit 100 with the user, while also making it possible to reduce the size of the device without having to ensure the distance between the image display unit 100 and the gripping unit 300 or being restricted by the size and shape of each.

[0051] It is preferable that the head-mounted unit 200 in the HMD form described in this embodiment and the grip unit 300 in the HHD form described in the modified example be interchangeably connectable to the image display unit 100. This increases the options for usage as an image display device, improving usability, reducing the number of parts and investment required when commercializing multiple products, and enabling flexible changes to various image observations depending on the usage situation. It is also preferable that substantially the same position and attitude adjustment mechanism and forehead contact unit be used in the HMD form described in this embodiment and the HHD form described in the modified example. This configuration allows for cost reduction through the use of common parts.

[0052] -Second embodiment- In the second embodiment, an image display device in the form of an HMD is disclosed, similar to the first embodiment. Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the image display device in the form of an HMD according to this embodiment is worn on the head of a user, where (a) is a perspective view and (b) is a side view.

[0053] This image display device includes an image display section 100 similar to that of the first embodiment, and a head-mounted unit 500 having a forehead contact section 550 disposed therein, and the image display section 100 is connected to and fixed to the head-mounted unit 500. By wearing the head-mounted unit 500 connected to the image display 100 on the user's head, the user can observe images hands-free.

[0054] The head-mounted unit 500 is one form of the support means of the present disclosure, and has an occipital support portion 570, belt members 590L, 590R connected thereto, and an adjustment dial 580 provided on the occipital support portion 570. The head-mounted unit 500 has a frontal contact portion 550, which is the contact means of the present disclosure, disposed so as to be replaceable with respect to the head-mounted unit 500. The user adjusts the belt members 590L, 590R by appropriately rotating the adjustment dial 580, and the user's head is fixed so as to be sandwiched between the frontal contact portion 550 and the occipital support portion 570.

[0055] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing the vicinity of the forehead contact portion 550 disposed on the head mounted unit 500. As shown in FIG. In head mounted unit 500, front head contact portion 550 is detachably disposed on front housing 501. Head mounted unit 500 is not provided with a position adjustment mechanism for front head contact portion 550.

[0056] In this embodiment, instead of a position adjustment mechanism, a plurality of forehead contact parts 550 with different thicknesses, heights, etc. are provided, and are interchangeable depending on the user. Specifically, FIG. 13(a) shows a state in which a standard forehead contact part 550 is arranged on the front housing 501. As shown in FIG. 13(b), by providing a forehead contact part 551 with an increased thickness on the front housing 501, the image display unit 100 can be arranged at a position away from the user's forehead. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 13(c), by providing a forehead contact part 552 with an increased height on the front housing 501, the fit for the user can be improved.

[0057] In this embodiment, the image display unit 100 and the head-mounted unit 500 are connected and fixed, so even if the front head contact portion 550 is replaced and positioned relative to the head-mounted unit 500, the relative positions of the image display unit 100 and the head-mounted unit 500 remain unchanged.

[0058] In this way, the forehead contact part 550 is replaceable to suit the user, allowing the appropriate forehead contact part 550 to be selected depending on the shape of the user's head, whether or not the user wears glasses, etc. The forehead contact part 550 may be customized for each user, or several types may be prepared so that the most appropriate one can be selected. By replacing the forehead contact part 550 for each user, the time required to align the image display unit 100 can be reduced. Furthermore, since the forehead contact part 550 can be replaced for each user, effects such as improved hygiene can also be obtained.

[0059] According to this embodiment, it is possible to appropriately adjust the contact state of the image display unit 100 with the user, while also making it possible to reduce the size of the device without having to ensure the distance between the image display unit 100 and the head-mounted unit 500 or being restricted by the size and shape of each unit.

[0060] -Variations- A modification of the image display device according to this embodiment will now be described. FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing an image display device according to a modified example of this embodiment, where (a) is a perspective view and (b) is a side view.

[0061] In this modification, a handheld HHD image display device is disclosed. This image display device includes an image display unit 100 similar to that of the first embodiment, and a grip unit 600, which is one form of the support means in this disclosure and has a forehead contact portion 650 disposed thereon, and the image display unit 100 is connected and fixed to the grip unit 600.

[0062] The grip unit 600 has a housing 601 to which the video display unit 100 is connected and fixed, and gripping portions 602L, 602R that are fixed to each side of the housing 601 and can be held by a user. The gripping portions 602L, 602R are gently bending rod-shaped members, and one end of each is connected to each side of the housing 601. The gripping unit 600 has a forehead contact portion 650 similar to the forehead contact portion 550 described in the second embodiment, which is arranged movably relative to the gripping unit 600. The gripping portions 602L, 602R are gently bending handles, and the user can hold the video display unit 100 with their arms bent in a natural shape without raising their elbows, allowing for stable holding without fatigue.

[0063] In the modified example, the image display unit 100 and the grip unit 600 are connected and fixed, so that even if the forehead contact portion 650 is exchanged with respect to the grip unit 600, the relative positions of the image display unit 100 and the grip unit 600 remain unchanged.

[0064] The forehead contact part 650 is replaceable to suit the user, allowing the appropriate forehead contact part 650 to be selected depending on the shape of the user's head, whether or not the user wears glasses, etc. The forehead contact part 650 may be customized for each user, or several types may be prepared so that the most appropriate one can be selected. By replacing the forehead contact part 650 for each user, the time required to align the image display unit 100 can be reduced. Furthermore, since the forehead contact part 650 can be replaced for each user, it is possible to obtain effects such as improved hygiene.

[0065] According to the modified example, it is possible to appropriately adjust the contact state of the image display unit 100 with the user, while also making it possible to reduce the size of the device without having to ensure the distance between the image display unit 100 and the gripping unit 600 or being restricted by the size and shape of each.

[0066] It is preferable that the head-mounted unit 500 in the HMD mode described in the second embodiment and the handheld unit 600 in the HHD mode described in the modified example be interchangeably connectable to the image display unit 100. This increases the options for usage of the image display device, improving usability, reducing the number of parts and investment required when commercializing multiple products, and enabling flexible changes to various image observations depending on the usage situation. In this case, it is preferable to use the same forehead contact unit 550 (650) in both the HMD mode and the HHD mode, and to configure the positional relationship between the image display unit 100 and the forehead contact unit 550 (650) to be the same in both modes. This makes it easier to align the image display unit 100 in the same position in both modes, improving usability.

[0067] Although the preferred embodiments and modifications have been described above, the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments and modifications, and various modifications and alterations are possible within the scope of the gist of the present disclosure.

[0068] The disclosure of the various embodiments and modifications includes the following configurations. (Configuration 1) a display means for displaying an image; a support means for supporting the display means; a contact means disposed on the support means and adapted to contact a user; It is equipped with Even if the arrangement of the abutting means with respect to the support means is changed, the relative position between the display means and the support means remains unchanged. Video display device. (Configuration 2) The display means is fixed to the support means in a superimposed state. 2. The image display device according to claim 1. (Configuration 3) The device further includes a position adjustment mechanism that moves the contact means relative to the support means, The abutment means is arranged to be movable relative to the support means by the position adjustment mechanism, in the arrangement state. 3. The image display device according to configuration 1 or 2. (Configuration 4) the abutment means is capable of translationally moving independently with respect to the support means in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction by the position adjustment mechanism; 4. The image display device according to configuration 3. (Configuration 5) the display means has an eyepiece optical system, the first direction is a direction along the optical axis direction of the eyepiece optical system, the second direction is a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction; 5. The image display device according to configuration 4. (Configuration 6) the abutment means is rotatable in a third direction relative to the support means, independently of the translational movement in the first direction and the translational movement in the second direction. 6. The image display device according to configuration 4 or 5. (Configuration 7) a plurality of the contact means having different modes are provided so as to be detachable from the support means; The abutment means is arranged interchangeably with respect to the support means in the arrangement state. 3. The image display device according to configuration 1 or 2. (Configuration 8) The plurality of contact means may have different heights and thicknesses. 8. The image display device according to configuration 7. (Configuration 9) The support means is detachable from the display means. 9. The image display device according to any one of the first to eighth configurations. (Configuration 10) the support means is connected to the display means and worn on the user's head; 10. The image display device according to any one of configurations 1 to 9. (Configuration 11) The support means is connected to the display means and can be held by a user. 10. The image display device according to any one of configurations 1 to 9. (Configuration 12) The support means is a rod-shaped member that the user holds with one or both hands. 12. The image display device according to claim 11. [Explanation of symbols]

[0069] 10L, 10R lenses 20L, 20R imaging camera 21L, 21R alignment camera 100 Video display unit 200,500 head mounted units 250,350,550,551,552,650 Forehead contact area 260,360 Forehead support holding mechanism 300,600 gripping units 302L,302R,602L,602R Grip part

Claims

1. a display means for displaying an image; a support means for supporting the display means; a contact means disposed on the support means and adapted to contact a user; It is equipped with Even if the arrangement of the abutting means with respect to the support means is changed, the relative position between the display means and the support means remains unchanged. Video display device.

2. The display means is fixed to the support means in a superimposed state.

2. The image display device according to claim 1.

3. The device further includes a position adjustment mechanism that moves the contact means relative to the support means, The abutment means is arranged to be movable relative to the support means by the position adjustment mechanism, in the arrangement state.

2. The image display device according to claim 1.

4. the abutment means is capable of translationally moving independently with respect to the support means in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction by the position adjustment mechanism; 4. The image display device according to claim 3.

5. the display means has an eyepiece optical system, the first direction is a direction along the optical axis direction of the eyepiece optical system, the second direction is a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction; 5. The image display device according to claim 4.

6. the abutment means is rotatable in a third direction relative to the support means, independently of the translational movement in the first direction and the translational movement in the second direction; 5. The image display device according to claim 4.

7. a plurality of the contact means having different modes are provided so as to be detachable from the support means; The abutment means is arranged interchangeably with respect to the support means in the arrangement state.

2. The image display device according to claim 1.

8. The plurality of contact means may have different heights and thicknesses.

8. The image display device according to claim 7.

9. The support means is detachable from the display means.

2. The image display device according to claim 1.

10. the support means is connected to the display means and worn on the user's head; 2. The image display device according to claim 1.

11. The support means is connected to the display means and can be held by a user.

2. The image display device according to claim 1.

12. The support means is a rod-shaped member that the user holds with one or both hands. The image display device according to claim 11.

Images