Positioning, stabilizing, and interfacing structures and system incorporating the same

Abstract

To provide positioning, stabilizing, and interfacing structures and a system incorporating the same.SOLUTION: A head-mounted display system includes a positioning and stabilizing structure structured and arranged to hold a display unit in an operational position over a user's face in use and an interfacing structure for the display unit constructed and arranged to be in opposing relation with the user's face. The interfacing structure comprises a substantially continuous face engaging surface. The substantially continuous face engaging surface is adapted to contact the user's face around a periphery of the user's eyes. The interfacing structure comprises silicone. The interfacing structure is configured and arranged such that force applied to the user's face is distributed around the periphery thereof. The interfacing structure comprises a first compliance at a first region and a second compliance at a second region, where the first region and the second region are configured around the periphery of the interfacing structure to allow selective distribution of the force onto the user's face.SELECTED DRAWING: None

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is entitled to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of this patent document or this patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but reserves all copyright rights therefor for all other purposes.

[0002] (1) CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of Australian Provisional Application No. 2020900953, filed March 27, 2020, U.S. Application No. 16 / 865,480, filed May 4, 2020, U.S. Application No. 16 / 865,526, filed May 4, 2020, Australian Provisional Application No. 2020901432, filed May 5, 2020, Australian Provisional Application No. 2020901437, filed May 6, 2020, and Australian Provisional Application No. 2020902514, filed June 20, 2020, each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. [Background technology]

[0003] (2) Technical Background (2.1 Technology field) The present technology primarily relates to head-mounted displays, positioning and stabilizing structures, user interfacing structures and other components used in head-mounted displays, associated head-mounted display assemblies and systems including display units and positioning and stabilizing structures, interfacing structures and / or components, and methods. The present technology finds particular application in the use of virtual reality head-mounted displays and is described in that context herein. However, it should be understood that the present technology may have broader application and may also be used in other head-mounted display configurations, including augmented reality displays.

[0004] 2.2 Description of Related Art (2.2.1 Head-mounted display) Where any prior art is mentioned herein, it should be understood that such mention 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] Virtual reality (or VR) head-mounted displays allow users to experience a fully immersive virtual environment and have a wide range of applications in areas such as communication, training, medical and surgical care, engineering, and video games.

[0006] A virtual reality head-mounted display is typically provided as a system or assembly including a display unit arranged to be held in an operating position in front of a user's face. The display unit typically includes a housing that houses a display and a user interfacing structure constructed and arranged to be in a facing relationship with the user's face (i.e., the interfacing structure is positioned opposite or opposite the user's face). The user interfacing structure may extend near the display and, together with the housing, define a viewing opening to the display. The user interfacing structure may engage the user's face and may include a cushion for user comfort and / or a light seal to block ambient light from the display. The head-mounted display system further includes a positioning and stabilizing structure positioned on the user's head to hold the display unit in place.

[0007] (2.2.1.1 Interfacing Structure) The head-mounted display may include a user interfacing structure. Because the patient interface is in direct contact with the user's face, the shape and configuration of the interfacing structure may have a direct impact on the effectiveness and comfort of the display unit.

[0008] There are multiple challenges in designing user interface structures. The face has a complex three-dimensional shape. The size and shape of the nose and head vary greatly between individuals. Because the head contains bone, cartilage, and soft tissue, different areas of the face respond differently to mechanical forces.

[0009] 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 display unit while the interfacing structure is engaged facing the user's face. The interfacing structure may include a polyurethane (PU) pad. This type of interfacing structure often results in a gap between the interfacing structure and the face, requiring additional force to press the display unit against the face to achieve the desired contact.

[0010] The presence of areas that do not fully engage with the display unit can create gaps between the facial interface and the user's face, allowing unwanted light pollution to enter the display unit. Such light pollution can reduce the effectiveness and enjoyment of the user's overall virtual reality experience. Additionally, prior systems can be difficult to adjust for a wide variety of head sizes. Furthermore, the display unit and associated positioning and stabilizing structures are often relatively heavy and difficult to clean, further limiting the comfort and ease of use of the system.

[0011] Another type of interfacing structure provides a sealing action against the user's face with a flap seal of thin material positioned around a portion of the periphery of the display unit. As with the previous type of interfacing structure, poor alignment between the face and the interfacing structure may require additional force to achieve a seal or may allow light to leak into the display unit during use. Furthermore, the shape of the interfacing structure may not match the user's shape, causing it to crease or buckle during use, resulting in undesirable light transmission.

[0012] (2.2.1.2 Positioning and stabilizing structures) To hold the display unit in the correct operating position, the head-mounted display system further includes a positioning and stabilizing structure disposed on the user's head. Until now, these positioning and stabilizing structures have been formed from extensible rigid structures that are typically applied to the user's head under tension to maintain the display unit in the operating position. Such systems tend to exert clamping pressure on the user's face, which can cause user discomfort at localized stress points. Previous systems can also be difficult to adjust to accommodate a wide range of applicable head sizes. Furthermore, the display unit and associated positioning and stabilizing structures are often heavy and difficult to clean, further limiting the comfort and ease of use of the system.

[0013] Certain other head-mounted display systems may not be functionally compatible with this technology. For example, positioning and stabilizing structures designed for decorative and aesthetic purposes may not have the structural capability to maintain adequate pressure around the face. For example, excessive clamping pressure may cause discomfort to the user, or insufficient clamping pressure on the user's face may not effectively seal the display from ambient light.

[0014] Certain other head mounted display systems may be uncomfortable or impractical for the present technology, for example, where the system is to be used for extended periods of time.

[0015] Due to these challenges, some head mounted display systems can be one or more of the following: intrusive, aesthetically unpleasing, costly, poor fit, difficult to use, and uncomfortable, especially when worn for long periods or when the user is unfamiliar with the system. Incorrectly sized positioning and stabilizing structures can cause reduced comfort and result in reduced duration of use.

[0016] Thus, the interfacing portion of the user interface used for a fully immersive experience of the virtual environment is subjected to forces corresponding to the user's movements during that experience.

[0017] (2.2.1.3 Materials) Materials used in head-mounted display assemblies include high-density foams that contact interfacing structures, rigid shells for housings, and positions and stabilization structures formed from rigid plastic clamping structures. These materials have a variety of deficiencies, such as the inability of the skin they cover to breathe, lack of flexibility, difficulty in cleaning, and tendency to trap bacteria. As a result, products constructed from such materials may be inconvenient to wear for extended periods of time and may cause skin irritation in some individuals, limiting their applicability.

[0018] Therefore, there is a need for an improved system that does not suffer from the above drawbacks. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0019] (3) Brief description of the technology One aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning and stabilizing structure for a head-mounted display system (or user interface). The positioning and stabilizing structure includes a rear support portion arranged to contact a rear region of a user's head in use. In some forms, the rear support structure includes a hoop having an occipital portion and a parietal portion.

[0020] The hoop, or at least one of the occipital and crown portions, may be elastically stretchable along at least a portion of its length. In some embodiments, the hoop is flexible along at least a portion of its length. In some embodiments where the rear support structure is a hoop, the occipital portion may resist upward movement and extend lower on the user's head (as a result of its contact with the occipital region of the head), thereby providing an anchor for the system. In some embodiments, the hoop is oriented in a generally upright plane (one such upright plane being, by way of example, the coronal plane).

[0021] In some forms, the rear support structure is positioned behind the base of the user's upper ear.

[0022] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning and stabilizing structure for a head mounted display system. The positioning and stabilizing structure includes a rear support portion arranged to contact a rear region of a user's head in use and a front support portion arranged to contact a front region of the user's head in use, the rear support portion and the front support portion extending transversely to a sagittal plane. In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure further includes an adjustment mechanism that allows adjustment between the rear support portion and the front support portion.

[0023] In some embodiments, the adjustment mechanism allows for lateral adjustment between the rear and front supports. In some embodiments, the adjustment mechanism allows for angular adjustment between the rear and front supports.

[0024] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning and stabilizing structure for a head mounted display system, the positioning and stabilizing structure including a rear support arranged to contact a rear region of a user's head in use and a front support arranged to contact a front region of the user's head in use, the rear support and the front support extending transverse to a sagittal plane and being laterally offset from one another.

[0025] In some forms, the rear or occipital support is biased into contact with the occipital region of the user's head.

[0026] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning and stabilizing structure for a head mounted display system, the positioning and stabilizing structure including a support arranged to accommodate the weight of a display unit of the head mounted display system in use, and one or more adjustment mechanisms allowing adjustment of the position of the display unit relative to the support.

[0027] In some forms, adjustment of the display unit relative to the support may be angled and / or provided in a front-to-back direction relative to the user's head.

[0028] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning and stabilizing structure for a head mounted display system, the positioning and stabilizing structure including an extensible elastic component and a substantially inextensible elastic stiffener.

[0029] In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure further includes opposing connectors that are positioned on opposite sides of the user's head and that extend along the temporal region of the user's head in use to interconnect the rear support structure or support with the display unit.

[0030] In some embodiments, the connector is rigid along at least a portion of its length. In some embodiments, the connectors each include an arm having a forward end connected to the display unit and a rearward end connected to one of the rear support structure or support portion. In some embodiments, the arms are rigid. In some embodiments, the rearward ends of the arms are positioned at or behind the base of the user's upper ear.

[0031] In some embodiments, at least one of the connectors further comprises an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the positioning and stabilizing structure to fit various head sizes, hi some embodiments, the adjustment mechanism is located at the connection between the posterior end of the temporal arm and the posterior support structure.

[0032] In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure includes one or more connection tabs that connect to the arms of the connector (i.e., connector arms) and an adjustment mechanism that allows adjustment of the effective length of the connection tabs. In some forms, the posterior ends of the connector arms incorporate eyelets configured to receive the connection tabs, and the adjustment mechanism comprises a releasable fastening arrangement for fastening the connection tabs to the temporal arms. In some forms, the releasable fastening arrangement can be configured to secure the free ends of the connection tabs back to the proximal portions of the connection tabs. The releasable fastening arrangement can take other forms, such as a clip or retainer that allows for friction, interference, snap, or other mechanical fastening arrangements.

[0033] In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure may further include a forehead support connector. In some forms, the forehead support connector may extend generally in the sagittal plane and connect the rear support structure or the front support portion to an upper edge region of the display unit. In some forms, the forehead support connector may include a strap. In some forms, the forehead support connector strap may be elastically stretchable along at least a portion of its length. In some forms, the forehead support connector strap may be flexible along at least a portion of its length.

[0034] In some forms, the forehead support connector may further include an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the positioning and stabilizing structure to fit various head sizes, hi some forms, the adjustment mechanism may adjust the effective length of the straps of the forehead support connector when the forehead support connector is in that configuration.

[0035] In some forms, the forehead support connector further comprises a forehead support stiffener that provides rigidity to a portion of the forehead support connector. In some forms, the forehead support stiffener provides rigidity to a portion of the forehead support connector that is located along the frontal region of the user's head. The extent and positioning of the forehead support stiffener may assist in proper positioning of the display unit and reduce pressure applied to the user's cheekbones. In some forms, the forehead support stiffener may be adjustable (angularly or translationally) on (or be adjustably adapted (angularly or translationally) to) other components of the forehead support connector, such as straps of the forehead support connector, which may allow for fine positioning of the head-mounted display unit and may assist in improved user comfort and fit.

[0036] In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure further includes additional stiffening that may span other portions of the structure (e.g., the rear support structure, the anterior or posterior support portions, and / or the connector arms). In some forms, these additional stiffening may help inhibit movement of the display unit near the rear support structure to further stabilize and support the system. In some forms, these additional stiffening may limit hinge movement at the connection of the temporal connector to the rear support structure. In some forms, these additional stiffening may also extend along the occipital region of the rear support structure to further anchor the display unit in the correct operating position. In some forms, these additional stiffening may be adjustable (angularly or translationally) on (or be adjustably adapted (angularly or translationally) to) other components of the forehead support connector to further aid in comfort, adjustability, and fit.

[0037] In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure may allow upward movement, e.g., upward pivoting, of the display unit (e.g., flip-up) so that the display unit can be moved to a non-operating position without removing the positioning and stabilizing structure. In some forms, a pivotal arrangement including the positioning and stabilizing structure is used in pivotal movement of the display unit. In some forms, the pivotal arrangement may provide a release mechanism in the forehead support connector and / or a limited hinge area in the temporal connector.

[0038] Any form of positioning and stabilizing structure described above may be incorporated into a hood or other headwear, either integrally or removably connected, and may also include other components incorporated therein, such as audio or haptic (tactile) stimulation or feedback.

[0039] Another aspect of the present technology relates to an interfacing structure for a head mounted display system, the interfacing structure being constructed and arranged to be in facing relation to a user's face.

[0040] In some forms, the interfacing structure includes a face-engaging surface that includes one or more regions of silicone or one or more layers of a fabric material or foam.

[0041] In some forms, the interfacing structure may have different compliances to allow for more selective distribution of forces onto the user's face. In some forms, one or more regions of the face-engaging surface may be formed to have different thicknesses and / or different surface finishes, such that the resulting face-engaging surface (when compressed against the user's face in use) has variable compliance.

[0042] In some forms, the interfacing structure includes a face engaging portion, a support structure that supports the face engaging portion in place, and a chassis that may be rigid (ie, a rigid chassis).

[0043] Another aspect of the present technology relates to an interfacing structure for a head-mounted display system. The interfacing structure extends approximately around a periphery of a display and defines a viewing opening for the display. In some forms, the interfacing structure can include a plurality of adjustable face-engaging portions disposed one on each of a left-hand side and a right-hand side of the interfacing structure. The adjustable face-engaging portions can be movable relative to one another.

[0044] In some forms, the adjustable face-engaging portions may be movable relative to a chassis of the interfacing structure, and the interfacing structure may include an adjustment mechanism (e.g., a sliding tab (or slidable tab) or a rack-and-pinion type adjustment mechanism) to allow a user to selectively adjust the spacing of the face-engaging portions.

[0045] In some forms, the interfacing structure includes components and / or regions that are removably attachable to the housing of the display unit.

[0046] One aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system including a positioning and stabilizing structure constructed and arranged to hold a display unit in an operating position on a user's face. The positioning and stabilizing structure includes a support hoop. The support hoop includes a posterior support portion adapted to contact a posterior region of the user's head and a front support portion adapted to contact a front region of the user's head. The posterior support portion of the support hoop is adapted to extend in a first plane, and the front support portion of the support hoop is adapted to extend in a second plane, with the first surface of the posterior support and the second surface of the front support each adapted to extend transversely to a sagittal plane. The support hoop includes an offset configuration in which the posterior support is offset from the front support such that the first surface of the posterior support is positioned in a different plane from the second surface of the front support. In one embodiment, the head-mounted display system may further include a display unit.

[0047] One aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning and stabilizing structure for holding a display unit in an operating position on a user's face. The positioning and stabilizing structure includes a support hoop. The support hoop includes a posterior support portion adapted to contact a posterior region of a user's head and a front support portion adapted to contact a front region of the user's head. The posterior support portion of the support hoop is adapted to extend in a first plane, and the front support portion of the support hoop is adapted to extend in a second plane, with the first surface of the posterior support and the second surface of the front support each adapted to extend transversely to a sagittal plane. The support hoop includes an offset configuration in which the posterior support is offset from the front support such that the first surface of the posterior support is disposed in a different plane from the second surface of the front support.

[0048] One aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system including a positioning and stabilizing structure constructed and arranged to hold a display unit in an operating position on a user's face. The positioning and stabilizing structure includes a support hoop. The support hoop includes a posterior support portion adapted to contact a posterior region of the user's head and a front support portion adapted to contact a front region of the user's head. The posterior support portion of the support hoop is adapted to extend in a first plane, and the front support portion of the support hoop is adapted to extend in a second plane. The first surface of the posterior support and the second surface of the front support are each adapted to extend transversely to a sagittal plane. The posterior support and the front support are movable relative to one another to at least one offset configuration, in which the posterior support is offset from the front support and the first surface of the posterior support is disposed in a different plane from the second surface of the front support. In one embodiment, the head-mounted display system may further include a display unit.

[0049] In an example, the head-mounted display system may further include an adjustment mechanism. The adjustment mechanism is constructed and arranged to enable selective adjustment of the rear support relative to the front support. In an example, the adjustment mechanism may be constructed and arranged to enable selective adjustment between: (1) an in-line configuration in which a first surface of the rear support is disposed flush with a second surface of the front support, and (2) at least one offset configuration. In an example, the at least one offset configuration may form a spacing or displacement between the first surface and the second surface, and the adjustment mechanism may enable selective adjustment of the spacing or displacement. In an example, the adjustment mechanism may enable angular adjustment of an angle formed between the first surface of the rear support and the second surface of the front support. In an example, the rear support may include an elastic strap. The elastic strap is biased to contact an occipital region of the user's head. In an example, the rear support may be configured and arranged to engage with the user's head along a portion of the occipital bone. In examples, the front support may be configured and arranged to engage the user's head along a top of the frontal bone. In examples, the head-mounted display system may further include at least one connector. The connectors are configured and arranged to interconnect the rear support and the front support with the display unit. In examples, a moment that may be generated by the rear support and the front support in the offset configuration is configured to counteract or withstand a moment caused by the display unit. In examples, the rear support may include an elastic strap. When the elastic strap is biased into contact with a portion of the occipital bone, an additional moment is generated to counteract or withstand a moment caused by the display unit. In one example, the display unit includes a housing including a display viewable by the user when the display unit is in the operating position, and an interfacing structure configured and arranged to face the user's face, the interfacing structure extending around the display and defining a viewing opening for the display.In an example, the positioning and stabilizing structure may further include a pair of central support structures. Each of the pair of central support structures is adapted to be positioned around a respective one of the user's ears, and the display unit is rotatably connected to the pair of central support structures to enable the display unit to be rotated relative to Frankfurt horizontal. In an example, at least one of the front support portion and the rear support portion may be rotatable relative to the pair of central support structures.

[0050] One aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning and stabilizing structure for holding a display unit in an operating position on a user's face. The positioning and stabilizing structure includes a support hoop. The support hoop includes a posterior support portion adapted to contact a posterior region of a user's head and a front support portion adapted to contact a front region of the user's head. The posterior support portion of the support hoop is adapted to extend in a first plane, and the front support portion of the support hoop is adapted to extend in a second plane, with the first surface of the posterior support and the second surface of the front support each adapted to extend transversely to a sagittal plane. The posterior support and the front support are movable relative to one another to at least one offset configuration, in which the posterior support is offset from the front support and the first surface of the posterior support is disposed in a different plane from the second surface of the front support.

[0051] In examples, the positioning and stabilizing structure may further include an adjustment mechanism. The adjustment mechanism is constructed and arranged to allow selective adjustment of the posterior support relative to the anterior support. In examples, the adjustment mechanism may be constructed and arranged to allow selective adjustment between: (1) an in-line configuration, in which a first surface of the posterior support is disposed flush with a second surface of the anterior support, and (2) at least one offset configuration. In examples, the at least one offset configuration may form a spacing or displacement between the first surface and the second surface, and the adjustment mechanism may allow selective adjustment of the spacing or displacement. In examples, the adjustment mechanism may allow angular adjustment of the angle formed between the first surface of the posterior support and the second surface of the anterior support. In examples, the posterior support may include an elastic strap. The elastic strap is biased to contact the occipital region of the user. In examples, the posterior support may be configured and arranged to engage the user's head along a portion of the occipital bone. In examples, the front support may be configured and arranged to engage the user's head along the top of the frontal bone. In examples, the positioning and stabilizing structure may further include at least one connector. The connectors are configured and arranged to interconnect the rear support and the front support to the display unit. In examples, a moment that may be generated by the rear support and the front support in the offset configuration is configured to counteract or withstand a moment caused by the display unit. In examples, a portion of the rear support may include an elastic strap. The elastic strap is biased into contact with a portion of the occipital bone to generate an additional moment that counteracts or withstands a moment caused by the display unit. In examples, the positioning and stabilizing structure may further include a pair of central support structures. Each of the pair of central support structures is adapted to be positioned around a respective ear of the user, and the display unit is rotatably connectable to the pair of central support structures to allow the display unit to rotate relative to the Frankfurt horizontal plane.In examples, at least one of the front support and the rear support may be rotatable relative to the pair of central support structures.

[0052] One aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system including a positioning and stabilizing structure constructed and arranged to hold a display unit in an operating position on a user's face during use. The positioning and stabilizing structure includes support portions constructed and arranged to accommodate the weight of the head-mounted display unit. The support portions include a pair of central support structures, each adapted to be positioned around a respective ear of the user. In an example, the display unit can be rotatably connected to the pair of central support structures to enable the display unit to be rotated relative to Frankfurt horizontal. In one embodiment, the head-mounted display system can further include a display unit.

[0053] One aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning and stabilizing structure for holding a display unit in an operating position on a user's face. The positioning and stabilizing structure includes support portions configured and arranged to accommodate the weight of the display. The support portions include a pair of central support structures, each adapted to be positioned around a respective one of the user's ears. The display unit is rotatably connected to the pair of central support structures to allow the display unit to be rotated relative to Frankfurt horizontal.

[0054] One aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system including a positioning and stabilizing structure constructed and arranged to hold a display unit in an operating position on a user's face during use. The positioning and stabilizing structure includes a rear support adapted to contact a rear region of the user's head and a front support adapted to contact a front region of the user's head. The rear support includes a substantially inextensible and substantially elastic rigidizer. The rigidizer includes a plurality of slots on at least one side of the rigidizer, the plurality of slots forming a plurality of hinges. In one embodiment, the head-mounted display system may further include a display unit.

[0055] One aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning and stabilizing structure for holding a display unit in an operating position on a user's face. The positioning and stabilizing structure includes a rear support adapted to contact a rear region of the user's head and a front support adapted to contact a front region of the user's head. The rear support includes a substantially inextensible and substantially elastic stiffener. The stiffener includes a plurality of slots on at least one side of the stiffener, the plurality of slots forming a plurality of hinges.

[0056] One aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system including a positioning and stabilizing structure constructed and arranged to hold a display unit in an operative position on a user's face during use, and an interfacing structure for the display unit constructed and arranged to be in a facing relationship with the user's face. The interfacing structure includes a substantially continuous face-engaging surface adapted to contact the user's face around the periphery of the user's eyes. The interfacing structure includes silicone. The interfacing structure is constructed and arranged to distribute forces applied to the user's face around the periphery. The interfacing structure includes a first compliance in a first region and a second compliance in a second region, the first region and the second region configured around the periphery of the interfacing structure to enable selective distribution of forces onto the user's face. In one embodiment, the head-mounted display system may further include a display unit.

[0057] Aspects of the present technology relate to an interfacing structure for a display unit constructed and arranged to face a user's face. The interfacing structure includes a substantially continuous face-engaging surface. The substantially continuous face-engaging surface is adapted to contact the user's face around the periphery of the user's eyes. The interfacing structure includes silicone. The interfacing structure is configured and arranged to distribute forces applied to the user's face around the periphery. The interfacing structure includes a first compliance in a first region and a second compliance in a second region, the first region and the second region configured around the periphery of the interfacing structure to enable selective distribution of forces onto the user's face.

[0058] Aspects of the present technology relate to a head-mounted display system including a positioning and stabilizing structure and an interfacing structure. The positioning and stabilizing structure is constructed and arranged to hold a display unit in an operative position above a user's face in use, and the interfacing structure is for the display unit and constructed and arranged to face the user's face, the interfacing structure extending around a periphery of a display that is viewable by the user when the display unit is in the operative position and defining (or forming) a viewing opening for the display. The interfacing structure includes face-engaging portions disposed on each of the left and right sides of the viewing opening, the face-engaging portions constructed and arranged to be slidably movable relative to one another. In one embodiment, the head-mounted display system may further include a display unit.

[0059] Aspects of the present technology relate to an interfacing structure for a display unit constructed and arranged to face a user. The interfacing structure extends around a display viewable by a user when the display unit is in an operating position and defines a viewing opening for the display. The interfacing structure includes movable face-engaging portions disposed on one each of the left and right hand sides of the viewing opening, the movable face-engaging portions constructed and arranged to be slidably movable relative to one another.

[0060] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head mounted display system or assembly including any form of positioning and stabilizing and / or interfacing structure as described above and a display unit connected thereto.

[0061] Another aspect of the present technology includes a virtual reality display interface or device, including an example of the head-mounted display system aspect described above.

[0062] In example embodiments of the head mounted display system described above, the display unit includes a display configured to selectively output computer-generated images viewable by a user in the operating position.

[0063] In the example embodiment of the head mounted display system described above, the display unit includes a housing.

[0064] In some embodiments, the housing supports a display.

[0065] In an example embodiment of the head mounted display system described above, the display unit includes an interfacing structure coupled to the housing and positioned in a location facing the user's face in the operating position.

[0066] In some forms, the interfacing structure at least partially defines a viewing opening configured to at least partially receive a user's face in the operating position.

[0067] 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 operating position.

[0068] In example embodiments of the head-mounted display system described above, the display unit includes at least one lens coupled to the housing, positioned within the viewing opening, and aligned with the display in the operative position.

[0069] In some embodiments, the display can be viewed by a user through at least one lens.

[0070] In an example embodiment of the head mounted display system described above, a control system having at least one sensor in communication with a processor.

[0071] In some embodiments, the at least one sensor is configured to measure a parameter and communicate the measurement to the processor.

[0072] In some embodiments, the processor is configured to modify a computer-generated image output from the display based on the measurements.

[0073] Another aspect of the present technology includes an apparatus that includes an example of an aspect of the augmented reality display interface or head-mounted display system described above.

[0074] In example embodiments of the head-mounted display system described above, the display unit includes a display constructed from a transparent or translucent material and configured to selectively provide computer-generated images viewable by a user.

[0075] In the example embodiment of the head mounted display system described above, the display unit includes a housing.

[0076] In some embodiments, the housing supports a display.

[0077] In an example embodiment of the head mounted display system described above, the display unit includes an interfacing structure coupled to the housing and positioned in a location facing the user's face in the operating position.

[0078] In the example embodiments of the head mounted display system described above, in the operating position the positioning and stabilising structure is configured to support the display unit.

[0079] In example embodiments of the head-mounted display system described above, the display is configured to be aligned with the user's eyes in the operating position, thereby allowing the user to at least partially view the physical environment through the display, independent of computer-generated images output from the display.

[0080] In example embodiments of the head mounted display system described above, the head mounted display system further includes a control system having at least one sensor in communication with the processor.

[0081] In some embodiments, the at least one sensor is configured to measure a parameter and communicate the measurement to the processor.

[0082] In some embodiments, the processor is configured to modify a computer-generated image output from the display based on the measurements.

[0083] In some forms, the at least one lens includes a first lens configured to be aligned with the user's left eye in the operating position and a second lens configured to be aligned with the user's right eye in the operating position.

[0084] In some embodiments, the first lens and the second lens are Fresnel lenses.

[0085] In some embodiments, the display includes a binocular display segmented into a first portion and a second portion, the first portion aligned with the first lens and the second portion aligned with the second lens.

[0086] In some embodiments, the controller has at least one button selectively engageable with a user's finger, the controller being in communication with a processor and configured to send a signal to the processor when the at least one button is engaged, and the processor being configured to modify a computer-generated image output from the display based on the signal.

[0087] In some forms, the at least one lens includes a first lens configured to be aligned with the user's left eye in the operating position and a second lens configured to be aligned with the user's right eye in the operating position.

[0088] Of course, some of the above aspects may form sub-aspects of the present technology, and various sub-aspects and / or aspects may be combined in various ways to form further aspects or sub-aspects of the present technology.

[0089] Other features of the present technology will become apparent in light of the information contained in the following detailed description, abstract, drawings, and claims.

[0090] The present technology is illustrated by way of example and not limitation in the accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals include like elements as follows: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0091] [Figure 1a] A frontal view of the face including several features of the surface anatomy including the endocanthion, brow ridge and superficial cranial muscles, upper lip, vermilion, alae of the nose, nasolabial folds and corners of the mouth. Further depicted are the left and right sagittal views, and the superior, inferior, radially inward and radially outward views. [Figure 1b] A lateral view of the head including several features of the surface anatomy described (e.g., temporomandibular joint, glabella, cervix, bridge of the nose, zygomatic arch / bone, superior ear base point, external occipital protuberance, inferior ear base point, nasal tip point, subnasal point, apex of the nose point, and temporalis muscle). The superior and inferior, and anterior and posterior directions are also described. [Figure 1c] 1 is a further lateral view of the head, showing the approximate location of Frankfort's horizontal. The coronal plane is also depicted. [Figure 1d] This is a side view of the skull, showing the outline of the head surface and some muscles. The following bones are shown: frontal, sphenoid, nasal, zygomatic, maxilla, mandible, parietal, temporal, and occipital. The following muscles are shown: masseter minor and trapezius. [Figure 1e] An anterior lateral view of the nose is shown. The following bones are illustrated: anterior, supraorbital foramen, nasal, septal cartilage, lateral cartilage, orbit, and infraorbital foramen. [Figure 2a] 2b is a schematic diagram of a cross section through the structure at point P. The outward normal is shown at point P. The curvature at this point P has a positive sign and a relatively large magnitude compared to the magnitude of the curvature shown in FIG. [Figure 2b] 2a is a schematic cross-sectional view of the structure cut at a point, showing the outward normal at this point, where the curvature at this point has a positive sign and a relatively small magnitude compared to the magnitude of the curvature shown in FIG. [Figure 2c] Schematic cross-section of a structure cut at a point, where the outward normal at this point is shown and the curvature value at this point is zero. [Figure 2d] 2e is a schematic cross-sectional view of the structure cut at a point, showing the outward normal at this point. The curvature at this point has a negative sign and a relatively small magnitude compared to the magnitude of the curvature shown in FIG. 2e. [Figure 2e] 2d is a schematic cross-sectional view of the structure cut at a point, showing the outward normal at this point, where the curvature at this point has a negative sign and a relatively large magnitude compared to the magnitude of the curvature shown in FIG. [Figure 2f] 1 shows the seal-forming structure and the outer surface of the cushion. [Figure 2g] The seal-forming structure is shown, with the edges of the surface and the path on the surface between points A and B. [Figure 2h]1 shows the seal-forming structure, with two saddle regions and a dome region shown. [Figure 2i] 1 shows the left ear including the left ear helix. [Figure 2j] Shows a right-handed spiral. [Figure 2k] The right ear is shown, including the right ear helix. [Figure 2l] Demonstrates the left-hand rule. [Figure 2m] Demonstrates the right-hand rule. [Figure 2n] The surface of a structure is shown, with a one-dimensional hole drilled into the surface. The planar curves shown form the boundary of the one-dimensional hole. [Figure 2o] Figure 2n is a cross-sectional view through the structure of Figure 2n. The surfaces shown bound a two-dimensional hole in the structure of Figure 2n. [Figure 2p] 2n structure including a two-dimensional hole and a one-dimensional hole, and the surfaces bounding the two-dimensional hole in the structure of FIG. [Figure 3a] FIG. 1 is a side view of a positioning and stabilization structure for a head-mounted display system in accordance with a first embodiment of the present technology; [Figure 3b] FIG. 1 is a front view of a positioning and stabilization structure for a head-mounted display system in accordance with a first embodiment of the present technology; [Figure 3c] FIG. 1 is a side view of a positioning and stabilizing structure of a head-mounted display system in accordance with a first embodiment of the present technology; [Figure 3d] FIG. 3c is a cross-sectional view of a temporal arm of the head mounted display assembly of FIGS. 3a-3c in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology. [Figure 3e] FIG. 3c is a cross-sectional view of a temporal arm of the head mounted display assembly of FIGS. 3a-3c in accordance with another embodiment of the present technology. [Figure 4a] FIG. 10 is a side view of a positioning and stabilizing structure for a head-mounted display system in accordance with a second embodiment of the present technology; [Figure 4b] FIG. 10 is a front view of a positioning and stabilizing structure for a head-mounted display system in accordance with a second embodiment of the present technology. [Figure 4c] FIG. 10 is a top view of a positioning and stabilization structure for a head-mounted display system in accordance with a second embodiment of the present technology. [Figure 5a] FIG. 10 is a side view of a positioning and stabilizing structure for a head-mounted display system in accordance with a third embodiment of the present technology. [Figure 5b] FIG. 10 is a front view of a positioning and stabilization structure for a head-mounted display system in accordance with a third embodiment of the present technology. [Figure 5c] FIG. 10 is a top view of a positioning and stabilization structure for a head-mounted display system in accordance with a third embodiment of the present technology. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a side view of a positioning and stabilization structure for a head-mounted display system according to a fourth embodiment of the present technology. [Figure 7a] FIG. 13 is a side view of a head-mounted display system according to a modified example of the fourth embodiment of the present technology. [Figure 7b] FIG. 13 is a front view of a head-mounted display system according to a modified example of the fourth embodiment of the present technology. [Figure 7c] FIG. 13 is a top view of a head-mounted display system according to a modified example of the fourth embodiment of the present technology. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a top view of a head mounted display assembly in use according to a modification of the fourth embodiment of the present technology. [Figure 9a] FIG. 1 is a side view of a positioning and stabilizing structure for a head mounted display system in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology; [Figure 9b] FIG. 1 is a side view of a positioning and stabilizing structure for a head mounted display system in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology; [Figure 10a] FIG. 1 is a side view of a positioning and stabilizing structure for a head mounted display system in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology; [Figure 10b] FIG. 1 is a side view of a positioning and stabilizing structure for a head mounted display system in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology; [Figure 10c]FIG. 1 is a side view of a positioning and stabilizing structure for a head mounted display system in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology; [Figure 11a] FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of a positioning and stabilization structure for a head mounted display system in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology; [Figure 11b] FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of a positioning and stabilization structure for a head mounted display system in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology; [Figure 11c] FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of a positioning and stabilization structure for a head mounted display system in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology; [Figure 12a] FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of a positioning and stabilization structure for a head mounted display system in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology; [Figure 12b] FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of a positioning and stabilization structure for a head mounted display system in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology; [Figure 12c] FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of a positioning and stabilization structure of a head-mounted display system, illustrating adjustability features in accordance with an example of the present technology. [Figure 13a] FIG. 10 is a schematic side view of a positioning and stabilizing structure including a forehead support arrangement for a head mounted display system in accordance with an example of the present technology; [Figure 13b] FIG. 10 is a schematic side view of a positioning and stabilizing structure including a forehead support arrangement for a head mounted display system in accordance with an example of the present technology; [Figure 14a] FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of a positioning and stabilizing structure in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology. [Figure 14b] 14A-14C are schematic side views of a positioning and stabilizing structure including a front portion configured in an example first and second configurations in accordance with an example of the present technology; [Figure 14c] FIG. 10 is a schematic side view of a positioning and stabilizing structure showing vector positions in accordance with an example of the present technology; [Figure 14d]12A-12C are schematic side views of a positioning and stabilizing structure including a display unit configured in an example first and second configurations in accordance with an example of the present technology; [Figure 15a] FIG. 10 is a split front view across axis AA of an interfacing structure in use according to an example of the present technology, the left hand side showing the position of the interfacing structure and the right hand side showing the approximate facial area that engages the interfacing structure. [Figure 15b] FIG. 15b is a side view of the interfacing structure of FIG. 15a in use. [Figure 16a] 10A-10C are side, top, and front-top views, respectively, of an interfacing structure in use according to a second example of the present technology. [Figure 16b] 10A-10C are side, top, and front-top views, respectively, of an interfacing structure in use according to a second example of the present technology. [Figure 16c] 10A-10C are side, top, and front-top views, respectively, of an interfacing structure in use according to a second example of the present technology. [Figure 17a] FIG. 16c is a cross-sectional side view through axis BB of FIG. 16c showing a support structure and face-engaging surface according to an example of the present technology. [Figure 17b] FIG. 16c is a cross-sectional side view through axis BB of FIG. 16c showing the support structure and face-engaging surface, further including a support flange according to a second example of the present technology. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a front and top view of an interfacing structure in use in accordance with a third example of the present technology. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a partial front-top view of an interfacing structure in use according to a fourth example of the present technology. [Figure 20a] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an interfacing structure in use according to a fifth example of the present technology. [Figure 20b] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an interfacing structure in use according to a fifth example of the present technology. [Figure 20c] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an interfacing structure in use according to a fifth example of the present technology. [Figure 20d] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an interfacing structure in use according to a fifth example of the present technology. [Figure 21a] FIG. 20b is a cross-sectional side view through axis CC of FIG. 20b showing a face-engaging surface including a foam cushion attached directly to the top of a support structure in accordance with an example of the present technology. [Figure 21b] FIG. 20b is a side cross-sectional view through axis CC of FIG. 20b showing a face-engaging surface covering a foam cushion, which is attached directly to the top of a support structure according to an example of the present technology. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a rear view of an interfacing structure in use, the interfacing structure having an adjustable width W in accordance with a sixth example of the present technology. [Figure 23a] 2A-2C are cross-sectional views from below of an adjustable interfacing structure in use at wider and narrower lens widths XX and YY, respectively, in accordance with an example of the present technology, where the lens widths are measured from the central axis of the first lens (e.g., axis EE) to the central axis of the second lens (e.g., axis DD). [Figure 23b] 2A-2C are cross-sectional views from below of an adjustable interfacing structure in use at wider and narrower lens widths XX and YY, respectively, in accordance with an example of the present technology, where the lens widths are measured from the central axis of the first lens (e.g., axis EE) to the central axis of the second lens (e.g., axis DD). [Figure 24] FIG. 14 is a rear view of an interfacing structure in use in accordance with a seventh example of the present technology. [Figure 25a] 1 is an anthropometric data model for sizing and clustering based on head shape variation according to an example of the present technology. [Figure 25b] 1 is an anthropometric data model for sizing and clustering based on head shape variation according to an example of the present technology. [Figure 26a] 1 is an anthropometric data model for sizing based on nominated facial zones according to an example of the present technology. [Figure 26b]1 is an anthropometric data model for sizing based on nominated facial zones according to an example of the present technology. [Figure 27a] 1 is an anthropometric data model for sizing based on anthropometric landmarks according to an example of the present technology. [Figure 27b] 1 is an anthropometric data model for sizing based on anthropometric landmarks according to an example of the present technology. [Figure 28] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a positioning and stabilizing structure in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology; [Figure 29] 12 is a cross-sectional view of a positioning and stabilizing structure in accordance with another embodiment of the present technology; [Figure 30] 1 is a detailed side view of an engagement structure (e.g., an interfacing structure or a positioning and stabilizing structure) applying pressure to a user's head when the engagement structure is being used in accordance with an example of the present technology. Pressure is the force exerted on a surface divided by the area over which the force acts. [Figure 31] 12 is a detailed side view of the twist T of the engagement structure during use of the engagement structure in accordance with an example of the present technology, which twist T of the engagement structure improves engagement and thereby achieves an even (or uniform) distribution of pressure on the user's head. [Figure 32] FIG. 10 is a detailed front view of a positioning and stabilizing structure on at least a portion of a user's head (e.g., crown) in accordance with an example of the present technology. [Figure 33] FIG. 13 is a detailed top view of an elastic portion of a positioning and stabilizing structure in the form of a strap in accordance with an example of the present technology. [Figure 34] FIG. 13 is a detailed side view of an engagement structure that is locally compliant when engaging with a protrusion on a user's head when the engagement structure is in use in accordance with an example of the present technology. [Figure 35] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a VR head-mounted display device according to an example of the present technology. [Figure 36] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a controller and control system in accordance with an example of the present technology. [Figure 37] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an AR head-mounted display device according to an example of the present technology. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0092] Before describing the present technology in further detail, it is to be understood that the present technology is not limited to the specific embodiments described herein, which may vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used in the present disclosure is for the purpose of describing the specific embodiments described herein, and is not intended to be limiting.

[0093] The following description is provided in connection with various embodiments that may share one or more common characteristics and / or features. It should be understood that one or more features of any one embodiment may be combined with one or more features of another embodiment or other embodiments. In addition, any single feature or combination of features in any of these embodiments may constitute an additional embodiment.

[0094] Head mounted display systems according to embodiments of the present technology are constructed and arranged to provide a near-perfect seal around the user's eyes, i.e., to provide an immersive experience when using a virtual reality head mounted display, while also providing a balanced system, i.e., not being excessively tight at any one point along the user's head and / or face. That is, head mounted display systems according to embodiments of the present technology are constructed and arranged to distribute pressure in a comfortable and stable manner (e.g., global and regional load distribution) to reduce hot spots or localized stress points, thereby providing a more uniform fit.

[0095] Furthermore, the head mounted display system according to the embodiment of the present technology includes a soft and flexible (e.g., elastic) material (e.g., a breathable material such as a fabric and foam composite) that is structured and arranged to enhance conformity to the user's head and provide cushioning for comfort. In addition, the head mounted display system according to the embodiment of the present technology includes a simple adjustment mechanism that makes it easy to adjust while worn on the user's head and achieves a wide range of fit.

[0096] (5.1 Head-mounted display) (5.1.1 Positioning and stabilizing structures) To maintain the display unit in a proper operating position, the head-mounted display system further includes a positioning and stabilizing structure positioned on the user's head. A comfortable positioning and stabilizing structure must accommodate the load caused by the weight of the display unit in a manner that minimizes facial imprinting and discomfort over time. It must also enable a universal fit (without trading off comfort, ease of use, and manufacturing cost). Design criteria include a range of adjustability and a low barrier to entry for people with limited dexterity through a simple setup solution with few touch points. A further consideration is accommodating the dynamic environment in which the head-mounted display system may be used. As part of an immersive experience of a virtual environment, users may communicate (i.e., converse) while using the head-mounted display system. In this manner, the user's jaw or mandible may move relative to other bones of the skull. Furthermore, the entire head may move over a period of use of a head-mounted display system (e.g., a virtual reality display). For example, movement includes the user's upper body (and possibly lower body), and in particular the relative movement of the head relative to the upper and lower body.

[0097] 3a and 3b show a positioning and stabilising structure 14 for a head mounted display system or assembly 10 according to a first embodiment of the present technology. The head mounted display system 10 comprises a head mounted display unit 12 (or display unit) and a positioning and stabilising structure 14 for maintaining the display unit 12 in an operative position on a user's face during use.

[0098] The display unit 12 includes a user interfacing structure 11. The user interfacing structure 11 is constructed and positioned to face the user's face (i.e., the user interfacing structure is positioned facing the user's face as shown in FIG. 3c). The user interfacing structure 11 extends near a display housed by the display unit housing 22. The user interfacing structure 11 may extend near the display and define a viewing opening (i.e., an opening for viewing) to the display. The user interfacing structure 11 may extend around the user's eyes and engage (e.g., lightly seal) with the user's face, for example, along the user's nose, cheeks, and / or forehead.

[0099] 3a-3c, the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 includes a rear support hoop 16 (also referred to as a rear support structure) adapted to contact a region of the user's head (e.g., positionable on the crown of the user's head) and at least one connector constructed and arranged to interconnect (or connect) the rear support hoop 16 to the display unit 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the at least one connector includes opposing temporal connectors 18 located on each side of the user's head that interconnect the rear support hoop 16 to respective rear edge regions 20 of the display unit housings 22 of the display units 12, and a forehead support connector 24 that extends across the user's forehead bone and interconnects (or connects) the rear support hoop 16 to the upper edge region 21 of the display unit housing 22. However, it should be understood that more than one connector may be provided to interconnect the rear support hoop 16 to the head-mounted display unit 12.

[0100] (5.1.1.1 Temporal Connector) Each of the opposing temporal connectors 18 includes a temporal arm 26. Each temporal arm 26 includes a forward end 28 attached to a respective rear edge region 20 of the display unit housing 22 and a rear end 30 that forms part of a releasable coupling for connecting the temporal arm 26 to the rear support hoop 16.

[0101] In some forms, each temporal arm 26 comprises a stiffener 32, a resilient (e.g., elastomeric and / or woven) element 34, and a tab 36 disposed at the rear end 30 for connecting to the rear support hoop 16. In one embodiment, a portion of each temporal arm 26, in use, contacts the area of ​​the user's head adjacent the upper ear base, i.e., above the user's ear. In one embodiment, the temporal arms 26, in use, are positioned to extend generally along or parallel to the Frankfort horizontal plane of the head and above the user's cheekbones.

[0102] An advantage of the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 is that it is relatively self-supporting and / or capable of retaining its shape when not being worn. This may make its use more intuitive or clearer to understand, as opposed to positioning and stabilizing structures that are generally flimsy and therefore unable to retain their shape. In one form, the self-supporting nature of the positioning and stabilizing structure is achieved by a stiffener.

[0103] (5.1.1.2 Rigidized object) In some forms of the present technology, for example, in the stiffener 32, the stiffener 32 may take the form of a reinforcing and / or thickened element. In one form, the stiffener 32 may be encapsulated within a resilient (e.g., elastomeric and / or woven) component 34 of each temporal arm 26. For example, FIG. 3d shows an example of a resilient component 34 (e.g., elastomeric and / or woven) in the form of a cover configured to encapsulate the stiffener 32. In this example, the woven component 34 includes a face-contacting side disposed on one side of the stiffener 32 that can provide a soft, face-contacting surface 35 adapted to contact the user's face during use. In some alternative forms, the stiffener may be sewn or otherwise attached (e.g., overmolded) to the resilient component 34, or the resilient component may be made from a material that can be selectively stiffened by heat treatment. For example, FIG. 3e shows an example of a resilient component 34 (e.g., elastomer and / or fabric) attached to the face-contacting side of the rigidizer 32, which can provide a soft, face-contacting surface 35 adapted to contact the user's face during use. In one embodiment, the resilient component 34 can comprise a fabric material or a fabric and foam composite (e.g., a breathable material, such as a multi-layer structure including an outer fabric layer and an inner foam layer) that gently supports the rigidizer 32 to cushion it against the user's head for maximum comfort. The rigidizer 32 allows each temporal arm 26 to retain its shape and configuration during use, even when the user is not wearing the respective temporal arm 26 or other components to which it is connected or formed. Maintaining the temporal arms 26 in an in-use state prior to use can advantageously prevent or limit distortion while the user is wearing the positioning and stabilizing structure and allow the user to quickly don or don the display system 10.

[0104] In one embodiment, the stiffeners 32 can be made from a rigid material such as Hytrel® (a thermoplastic polyester elastomer). In the embodiment of Figures 3a-3c, the stiffness, or inextensibility, of the stiffeners 32 in each temporal arm 26 limits the amount of extension or deformation of the temporal arm 26 during use. This configuration has the advantage of allowing for more efficient, or direct, translation of tension forces by the temporal arms 26.

[0105] In another example, the positioning and stabilizing structure may be designed, for example, so that the positioning and stabilizing structure springs "out of the box" and generally assumes the configuration or shape in use. Additionally, the positioning and stabilizing structure may be configured to retain its in-use shape after being released from the box. For example, stiffeners may be formed to maintain the shape of a portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure. Advantageously, the shape of the positioning and stabilizing structure may be generally curved (e.g., approximately like the back of the user's head), making orientation of the positioning and stabilizing structure clear to the user. That is, the positioning and stabilizing structure may be generally dome-shaped.

[0106] Another aspect of the positioning and stabilizing structures described herein is to orient the display unit 12 into contact with the user's face, i.e., the force (i.e., the force vector of the positioning and stabilizing structure) may apply pressure from the display unit perpendicular or perpendicular to the user's face.

[0107] In one embodiment, the stiffener 32 forms a lever arm (such as the stiffener arm 32), i.e., a means for pivoting about the rear support hoop 16. The rear support hoop 16 advantageously provides an anchor point for the positioning and stabilizing structure 14, thereby forming a pivot point. The stiffener may articulate about the anchor point of the rear support hoop 16 so that the forehead support connector 24 can raise or lower the position of the display unit 12 relative to the user's nose. This configuration advantageously minimizes the amount of clamping pressure required to stabilize the display unit 12 on the user's head.

[0108] In some forms of the present technology, the stiffeners may be curved to assume a crescent, semicircular, or partial crescent shape.

[0109] The stiffener arm 32 may have a generally elongated and flat configuration (see, e.g., FIG. 3a). In other words, the stiffener arm is longer and wider (from top to bottom in the plane of the page) than it is thick (into the plane of the page). In one embodiment, the thickness and / or width of the stiffener arm 32 may vary along at least a portion of its length; for example, the stiffener arm 32 may include wider and narrower portions along its length to facilitate connection and distribute loads.

[0110] While the rigidizer arms may be flat as shown in FIGS. 3a-5c, it is understood that the rigidizer arms may have a desired spatial configuration in the direction into the page (see, for example, FIGS. 6 and 7a-7c), particularly to allow for improved alignment with the shape of the user's face (e.g., the shape of the lateral regions of the user's head) (see, for example, FIGS. 7a-7c). Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7a-7c, the rigidizer arms have a three-dimensional shape with curvature in all three axes (X, Y, and Z). The thickness of the rigidizer arms may be substantially uniform, but the height or width varies throughout their length. The purpose of the shape and dimensions of the rigidizer arms 32 is to fit closely to the user's head to maintain a low-profile and unobtrusive appearance (i.e., not appearing overly bulky).

[0111] The stiffener arms may have a longitudinal axis, which may be understood as an axis substantially parallel to the plane of the paper, along which the stiffener arms extend (see, for example, the dashed lines in Figures 5a and 7a).

[0112] In some forms of the present technology, the stiffener (e.g., stiffener arm 32) is stiffer than the elastic (e.g., elastomeric and / or woven) component 34 and less stiff than the display unit housing 22. In particular, the stiffener arm and / or elastic component are combined to impart a shape and higher stiffness to the elastic component in at least one direction or about or at least one axis by the stiffener arm.

[0113] The stiffener 32 may be flexible or deformable along its length, but the positioning and stabilizing structures tolerate or prevent stretching along the stiffener's longitudinal axis (see dashed lines in FIGS. 5a and 7a). As shown in FIGS. 5a and 7a, the stiffener's longitudinal axis extends along the stiffener's length (e.g., generally through the center) and may be straight ( FIG. 5a ) or curved ( FIG. 7a ). The stiffener is substantially inextensible and elastic. Stiffeners according to the present technology preferably have one or more of the following characteristics: shape retention, redirection of forces (i.e., force vectors) from components around curves (e.g., around the cheeks or ears), flexibility, and / or structures that maintain a predefined configuration in a particular plane.

[0114] In one form, the rigidizer 32 can be flexible or can conform to the user's head along its longitudinal axis. In one form, however, the rigidizer can be constructed such that it cannot flex or deform across its width. This is done so that the positioning and stabilizing structure is comfortable while maintaining the structural function of anchoring the display in place (e.g., the rigidizer is flexible in one direction (into the user's head) and provides support or load bearing in another direction).

[0115] In some forms, the stiffener 32 may have arches or bends. The bends may be provided in one or more selected region(s) of the stiffener to allow the stiffener to easily bend or hinge at the region(s). The bends may be weakened areas to achieve flexibility in the stiffener, so that the weakened portions act as living hinges. Such flexibility may be useful in accommodating users with a wider range of head sizes. These bends may be positioned to allow portions of the stiffener to bend outward toward the user's ears and / or inward toward the center of the user's head.

[0116] In some forms, the stiffener 32 includes multiple slots (e.g., slots on each side of the arm (i.e., slots on the front and back sides of the arm)) that form multiple hinges along the component (e.g., the temporal connector 18). These hinges create flexible sections within each arm. These hinges allow the arms to articulate, accommodate minor variations in the cheek area, and distribute loads across the face (when under headgear tension) more evenly (e.g., compared to stiffener arms without any flexible sections). In some forms, when the stiffener is an elongated shape extending generally longitudinally, the hinges and / or weakened sections may extend transverse to the longitudinal direction or may extend longitudinally (to increase the possible fit).

[0117] In some forms, the slots are generally parallel to one another, generally evenly spaced from one another, and include similar widths and depths into the arm thickness. However, it should be understood that the slots may include other suitable arrangements and configurations to vary the location and flexibility characteristics of the arm (e.g., number of slots, slots on one or both sides of the arm (front and / or back), spacing between slots, width, depth, orientation, or angle of the slots on the arm (e.g., slots angled relative to one another to allow bending in different orientations)). In an example, one or more of the slots may be filled with a flexible material (e.g., narrow recesses or grooves formed by the slots may receive a flexible material). In another example, the hinge may be provided by multiple flexible portions spaced apart by rigid segments (e.g., flexible portions formed from a flexible or bendable material).

[0118] In some forms, the stiffener 32 may include a material that guides or defines the direction or path of extension of the elastic (e.g., elastomeric and / or woven) component (i.e., that comprised the rear support hoop 16). In other words, the user stretches the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the stiffener 32 (see dashed lines in FIG. 7a). Stretching the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 in other directions would undesirably rotate the stiffener relative to the display unit housing 22. The stiffness of the stiffener biases it to its natural, non-rotating, untwisted, and undeformed state. This allows the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 to be, up to a certain point, a self-adjusting head-mounted display system. In examples, the stiffener can be biased to a particular size (e.g., a relatively snug fit), and the stiffener can be adjusted to fit the user's head, such as by increasing the opening or bending outward to scale the head size, thereby allowing it to conform to the shape of the user's head and provide the necessary support.

[0119] In some forms, an elastic (e.g., elastomeric and / or woven) component may encapsulate the encapsulated stiffener. For example, the woven material may be overmolded onto the side of the stiffener (see, e.g., FIG. 3e). Encapsulating the stiffener within a suitable elastic (e.g., elastomeric and / or woven) material may improve user comfort and wearability (see, e.g., FIG. 3d). Placing the woven material on the user-contacting side of the stiffener may allow for soft contact with the user's skin.

[0120] In some forms, the stiffener may be formed separately from the elastic component, in which case a sock (i.e., cover or enclosure) including a user-contacting material (e.g., Breath-O-Prene®) may be covered or slid over the stiffener. In other embodiments, the stiffener may be made by gluing, ultrasonic welding, sewing, hook-and-loop material, and / or stud connectors. In embodiments, the user-contacting material (i.e., a soft or comfortable material (e.g., Breath-O-Prene®) positioned to contact the user's skin during use) may be provided on both sides of the stiffener, or alternatively, (to reduce bulk and material costs) may be provided only on the user-contacting side of the stiffener.

[0121] Stiffening may be achieved by adding an additional layer of material (e.g., silicone, polyurethane, or other adhesive material) to the elastic component. Such materials may be added to the elastic component to reinforce it. Silicone beading or polymeric overmolding may also be used.

[0122] The stiffener may have a composite structure including two or more materials (rigid or semi-rigid materials). For example, the stiffener may be constructed by thickening or treating the fabric to make it more rigid or to prevent material stretching. In an example, the fabric may be printed such that the ink from the print limits or reduces the fabric's ability to stretch. Additionally, the fabric may be stiffened by stitching it in selected areas. Ultrasonic welding of the fabric in selected areas may also stiffen the fabric.

[0123] In some alternative forms, the stiffeners may be constructed from a nonwoven material (e.g., netting) and are resistant to stretching in at least one direction. Alternatively, the stiffeners may be formed from a woven fabric, where the weave of the material is aligned so that the fabric cannot stretch laterally, thereby securing and anchoring the positioning and stabilizing structure in use.

[0124] In an example, the rigidizer may be formed from Hytrel® and the display unit housing 22 may be formed from polypropylene (PP). PP is a thermoplastic polymer with high fatigue resistance. Hytrel® is desirable for forming the rigidizer 32 because it is creep resistant. Because these materials cannot be integrally bonded, a secure connection may be formed by overmolding the display unit housing 22 onto the rigidizer 32 (i.e., the joint between the front end 28 of the arm 26 and the rear edge region 20 of the display unit housing 22).

[0125] In another form, the stiffener (e.g., stiffener arm) may be constructed from a TPE that offers high elasticity properties. For example, Dynaflex® TPE composite or Medalist® MD-1 15 may be used. The housing may be made of a polypropylene (PP) material. An advantage of molding the stiffener into TPE is that it may be possible to permanently connect the stiffener and the display unit housing to one another. In other words, a melt bond or chemical bond (molecular adhesion) is formed between these two components.

[0126] The joints connecting the rigidizer to the display unit housing may allow for targeted flexibility, and the joints may be shaped to allow flexibility in desired directions and levels. Thus, after the head mounted display system is donned and the temporal arms 26 are stressed by tension from the rear support hoops 16 of the positioning and stabilizing structure 14, the rigidizers 32 may flex at the joints, thereby helping to hold the temporal arms 26 in a desired position relative to the user's face while remaining in a shape that frames the face.

[0127] Although the rigidizer and display unit housing have been described as being permanently connected to one another, it is contemplated that the rigidizer (i.e., temporal arm) may be detachable from the display unit housing, for example, by mechanical clip (snap-fit) assembly. This arrangement may result in a modular system with interchangeable display units and / or positioning and stabilizing structures.

[0128] (5.1.1.3 Rear Support Hoop (or Support Hoop)) The rear support hoop 16 is ring-shaped (similar to the ring-shaped shape of the rear support hoop 316 shown in FIG. 7b) and configured to have a three-dimensional contour curve that fits or conforms to the shape of the rear of the user's head, such as the crown portion of the user's head. In examples, the hoop-shaped or ring-shaped arrangement (e.g., a closed loop) provided by the support hoop is adapted to enclose or surround a portion of the user's head therebetween. It should be understood that the support hoop is not limited to a circular or round shape; for example, the support hoop may be oval or partially circular / oval or C-shaped. The rear support hoop 16 includes a crown portion or crown strap portion 38 adapted to be adjacent the parietal bone of the user's head in use, and an occipital portion or occipital strap portion 40 adapted to be adjacent the occipital bone of the user's head in use. In one embodiment, the occipital portion 40 is preferably positioned along a portion of the occipital bone during use, for example, adjacent to or near the junction where the neck muscles attach to the occipital bone, and the parietal portion 38 is preferably positioned posterior to the frontal plane during use. In one embodiment, the occipital portion 40 is adapted to be positioned along a portion of the occipital bone at the junction where the neck muscles attach to the occipital bone. This junction may also be referred to as the external occipital protuberance (EOP). However, the exact location of the occipital portion 40 on the user's head may vary depending on the size and shape of the user's head on which the occipital portion 40 is being used; for example, the occipital portion 40 may be positioned adjacent to, above, or below the portion of the occipital bone where the neck muscles attach to the occipital bone. In one embodiment, the occipital portion 40 may be positioned below or below the occipital bone near the junction where the neck muscles attach. This hoop-like arrangement (e.g., ring-shaped, circular or oval-shaped, or partially circular / oval-shaped or C-shaped) of rear support hoop 16 anchors positioning and stabilizing structure 14 around the rear or rear prominence of the user's head, thereby providing an effective support structure for holding weight (i.e., the display unit) on the front of the user's head. Rear support hoop 16 may be formed from an elastic material, the elasticity of which may be used to stretch the hoop and hold rear support hoop 16 firmly in place.

[0129] In an example, the three-dimensional shape of the rear support hoop may have a generally curved three-dimensional shape adapted to cup-like fit over the parietal and occipital bones of a user's head when in use.

[0130] In examples, the occipital region 40 engages the occipital bone to maintain the occipital region 40 and the rear support hoop 16 in place and to prevent the positioning and stabilizing structure from riding up against the back of the user's head. Additionally, the parietal region 38 may occupy or ride up against the top of the user's parietal bone to prevent the positioning and stabilizing structure from sliding off the user's head.

[0131] The rear support hoop 16 further includes opposing connecting straps or tabs 42 (see, for example, FIG. 3a).

[0132] In one embodiment, the rear support hoop 16 is generally vertically oriented, i.e., disposed in a vertical plane generally parallel to the coronal plane. This positioning of the rear support hoop 16 properly orients the rear support hoop 16 over the top of the user's head to support the lateral, i.e., horizontal, tension applied by the connecting straps 42 and to support the weight of the display unit 12.

[0133] The rear support hoop 16 and the connecting straps 42 may be formed from elastic and / or woven materials to help conform to the shape of the user's head. The rear support hoop 16 and the connecting straps 42 may, for example, provide tension. Such elastic and / or woven materials behind the user's head may also facilitate lifting the display unit 12 away from the user's face, such as when moving the display unit 12 away from the user's eyes to speak with someone, while the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 remains on the user's head. For example, the rear support hoop 16 may be made of neoprene or other woven-foam composites (e.g., breathable materials such as multi-layer structures including an outer woven layer and an inner foam layer), or spacer fabric. The woven fabric may provide a soft support structure to stabilize the display unit 12 on the user's head, advantageously allowing the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 to cushion against the user's head for maximum comfort.

[0134] The posterior support hoop, including portions of the temporal arms 26, may be elastic, allowing the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 to stretch and contract, resulting in a comfortable (or relatively flat) force-displacement (or extension) profile. In an example, as the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 stretches and contracts in the distance direction under load L, strain forces can be distributed substantially evenly across the positioning and stabilizing structure 14. As a result, the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 has a relatively flat force (y-axis) versus displacement (x-axis) profile, indicating that forces do not change significantly when the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 is extended (particularly compared to prior art structures).

[0135] (5.1.1.4 Adjustable (connection) straps) A strap or tab may be understood as a structure designed to resist tension. In use, the connection strap 42 is the portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 that is under tension. In certain forms of the present technology, the connection strap 42 may be bendable (e.g., non-rigid). An advantage of this embodiment is that the connection strap is more comfortable for the user when subjected to tension on the head.

[0136] Some straps, as described above, add elasticity resulting from this tension. The straps of the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 provide a holding force that overcomes the effects of gravity on the display unit 12. In this manner, the straps may form part of the positioning and stabilizing structure to maintain a light sealing position of the display unit on the user's head.

[0137] In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 provides a holding force as a safety margin to overcome the effects of disruptive forces on the display unit (e.g., due to head and body movement) or accidental interference with the display unit during use. The straps may be configured to direct a retracting force that causes the interfacing surface of the display unit 12 to make sealing contact with a portion of the user's face during use. In one embodiment, the straps may be configured as ties.

[0138] In the embodiment of FIGS. 3a-3c, the connecting straps 42 are adjustable and operate to change the distance between the rear support hoop 16 and the display unit housing 22 of the display unit 12. Each of the straps 42, in use, is threaded through an eyelet 44 in the tab 36 of the respective temporal arm 26. The length of each strap 42 passing through the tab 36 of the respective temporal connector 18 can be adjusted by slightly pulling (or otherwise adjusting the length of) the strap 42 through its respective eyelet 44. After the strap 42 passes through the eyelet 44 in the tab 36, it can be secured to itself using, for example, a hook-and-loop fastening mechanism, which allows for fine or micro-adjustment of the strap for comfort and fit (e.g., tightness). Thus, the distance between the rear support hoop 16 and the display unit housing 22 can be adjusted to fit a variety of head sizes. Such an adjustable strap arrangement also allows adjustment while the display unit 12 is worn on the user's head, allowing the user to, for example, pull the strap 42 backwards to tighten it.

[0139] In one embodiment, the thickness and / or width of the rear support hoop 16 and / or straps 42 may vary along at least a portion of their length. For example, the rear support hoop 16 may include wider and thinner portions along its length, such as a wider portion adjacent the straps 42, to facilitate connection to the temporal arms 26 and distribute the load. Also, the straps 42 may be thinner along their free ends to facilitate threading through the eyelets 44 of the respective temporal arms 26.

[0140] In some arrangements, the strap or stiffener provides a press-stud arrangement. For example, the stiffener may include a portion with a plurality of holes, and one end of the strap 42 may provide a stud (e.g., overmolded or sonically welded to the strap) adapted to be press-fit into a selected one of the holes. The studs and holes are configured to provide a snap-fit ​​arrangement. In other configurations, the strap itself may be secured by an arrangement of holes and studs.

[0141] In some arrangements, an adjustment mechanism is provided for adjusting the distance between the rear support hoop 16 and the display unit housing 22. The looped portion of the strap 42 may be formed by looping the strap 42 through an aperture that may be included in a stiffener. These stiffeners may be provided with a push tab. The push tab may be spring preloaded or biased to engage and disengage the looped portion of the strap 42. A grip portion may be provided on the push tab opposite the aperture, allowing the user to securely position the positioning and stabilizing structure on their face. The grip portion may prevent the loop portion from being pulled through the aperture, thereby preventing disassembly of the loop portion.

[0142] In certain forms of the present technology, more than one positioning and stabilizing structure 14 is provided on a display unit, with each positioning and stabilizing structure configured to provide a holding force corresponding to a different size and / or shape range. For example, one form of the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 may be suitable for large-sized heads (rather than small-sized heads), and another form of the positioning and stabilizing structure may be suitable for small-sized heads (rather than large-sized heads). Thus, a set of different positioning and stabilizing structures corresponding to different size and / or shape ranges may be provided on a display unit. Advantageously, the display unit may be versatile and provide a greater fit and comfort.

[0143] (5.1.1.5 Rear Support Hoop Changes) (5.1.1.5.1 Elongation stiffened object) 5a-5c show a support for a head-mounted display system or assembly 210 according to a third embodiment of the present technology. In FIGS. 5a-5c, like reference numerals refer to like parts as in FIGS. 3a-3c, with the addition of 200 to distinguish between embodiments, such as a display unit 212, a positioning and stabilizing structure 214, a rear support hoop 216, temporal connectors 218, a rear edge region 220, a display unit housing 222, a crown portion 238, an occipital portion 240, and a connecting strap 242. In the third embodiment, the support for the head-mounted display assembly 210 does not include a forehead support. That is, the display unit 212 is supported by the positioning and stabilizing structure 214 without a forehead support connector or a forehead support strap.

[0144] FIG. 6 shows a support for a head-mounted display system or assembly 310 according to a fourth embodiment of the present technology. In the fourth embodiment shown in FIG. 6, like reference numerals refer to like parts as in FIGS. 3a-3c, with the addition of 300 to distinguish between embodiments, such as a display unit 312, a positioning and stabilizing structure 314, a rear support hoop 316, a temporal connector 318, a display unit housing 322, a forehead support connector 324, temporal arms 326, stiffeners 332, a crown portion 338, an occipital portion 340, and a forehead support strap 348. In the fourth embodiment, the support for the head-mounted display system 310 includes opposing temporal connectors 318, each of which has a temporal arm 326 with an elongated stiffener 358. Each elongated stiffener 358 may extend from its respective temporal arm 326 to the rear support hoop 316 to provide additional support for the display unit 312 during use. Each elongated stiffener 358 may extend along a portion of the rear support hoop 316 and may extend into one or both of the parietal and occipital portions 338, 340. For example, each elongated stiffener 358 may have a Y-shape, as shown in FIG. 6, extending into both the parietal and occipital portions 338, 340. Alternatively, each elongated stiffener 358 may extend only into one of the parietal and occipital portions 338, 340, for example, extending only along the occipital portion 340, as shown in FIG. 7a below. In the embodiment of FIG. 6, the parietal and occipital portions of the elongated arms of stiffener 358 are provided along the parietal and occipital portions 338, 340 of the rear support hoop 316, which are positioned proximal to the parietal and occipital bones of the user's head, to support the respective portions of the rear support hoop 316.

[0145] The elongated stiffener 358 increases the length of the temporal connector 318, increasing the lever arm moment generated near the rear support hoop 316. Compared to the first and second embodiments, the larger lever arm extends the moment of inertia further back on the user's head during use. This reduces the tension applied to the forehead support connector 324 to support the display unit 312, thereby providing increased comfort to the user.

[0146] Additionally, the extended arms of the stiffener 358 can support the weight of the display unit 312 and the clamping force applied by the tension induced in the positioning and stabilizing structure 314, distributing pressure more evenly across the user's head.

[0147] The extended arms of the stiffener 358 help prevent the posterior support hoop 316 of the positioning and stabilizing structure 314 from moving vertically upward on the user's head, i.e., from rising above the user's head, when tension is applied to the forehead support connector 324. The extended arms of the stiffener 358 can more effectively secure the occipital portion 340 of the posterior support hoop 316 below the corresponding occipital bone of the user's head (e.g., along the portion of the occipital bone adjacent the junction where the neck muscles attach to the occipital bone).

[0148] In other words, the occipital portion 340 of the elongated stiffener 358 engages the occipital bone to maintain the occipital portion 40 and rear support hoop 16 in place during use. Additionally, the parietal portion 338 of the elongated stiffener 358 may occupy or ride up on top of the user's parietal bone during use to prevent the positioning and stabilizing structure from sliding down onto the user's head during use.

[0149] In embodiments, the crown region 338 and the occipital region 340 may each have different elastic properties to improve stability of the positioning and stabilizing structure on the user's face during use.

[0150] In an example, the crown portion 338 may be constructed from a stretchable material to allow for adjustment of the positioning and stabilizing structures during use. For example, the crown portion 338 may be made of an elastic material. The stretchability of the elastic crown portion may enhance the fit for a range of users. Additionally, the occipital portion 340 may be constructed from a material that is less stretchable than the crown portion 338. That is, the occipital portion 340 may be constructed from a material that has less stretchability for a given force (compared to the material used for the crown portion 338). This secures the positioning and stabilizing structures in place while allowing for constant adjustment of the display unit position on the user's face.

[0151] 5.1.1.5.2 Biased Extension Stiffeners 7a-7c show a variation of the fourth embodiment of Fig. 6. In this embodiment, each of the temporal arms 326 includes a biased elongated stiffener 360. In use, each biased elongated stiffener 360 may extend from its respective temporal arm 326 to the occipital portion 340 of the rear support hoop 316, i.e., in a generally J-configuration, to provide enhanced support for the display unit 312.

[0152] The biased elongated stiffener 360 extends along a portion of the occipital bone, for example, adjacent the junction where the neck muscles attach to the occipital bone, to firmly anchor the positioning and stabilizing structure 314 and support the display unit 312 above the user's nose and cheeks.

[0153] As best shown in FIGS. 7a and 7c, occipital and temporal adjustment mechanisms 362, 364 may be provided on the temporal arm 326 and the biased elongated stiffener 360. The intermediate adjustment mechanism 362 may be adapted to connect the first biased elongated stiffener 360 to the second biased elongated stiffener 360, such that the intermediate adjustment mechanism 362 is disposed between the first and second intermediate adjustment mechanisms. The intermediate adjustment mechanism 362 may have an adjustable length, thereby controlling the distance between the opposing arms of the stiffener 360. The intermediate adjustment mechanism 362 may be attached near the intermediate region of the occipital portion between the opposing arms of the biased elongated stiffener 360. In one embodiment, the intermediate adjustment mechanism 362 may be in the form of a strap that is threaded through opposing holes 363 in the rear ends 368 of each of the opposing arms of the biased elongated stiffener 360 (see FIG. 7b). The distance between the opposing arms of stiffener 360 can be controlled by slightly pulling strap 362 through hole 363 .

[0154] A temporal adjustment mechanism 364 can be positioned on each temporal arm 326 along the temporal region of the user's head. The temporal adjustment mechanism 364 is adjustable and operable to vary the distance between the biased elongated stiffener 360 and the display unit housing 322.

[0155] The biased elongated stiffener 360 may be formed from a flat component and then bent or deformed into a shape suitable for use. For example, the stiffener 360 may be die cut from a sheet of material.

[0156] 9a-10c show a positioning and stabilizing structure 514 for a head mounted display system 510 in accordance with a further example of the present technology. The head mounted display system 510 includes a display unit 512, and the positioning and stabilizing structure 514 is configured to maintain the display unit 512 in position on the user's face.

[0157] The positioning and stabilizing structure 514 includes a support hoop 516 positionable between the frontal and temporal bones of the user's head, and opposing connectors 518 located on each side of the user's head that interconnect the support hoop 516 with respective posterior edge regions 520 of a display unit housing 522. In the illustrated example, the connectors 518 connect to a portion of the support hoop 516 at a location that is closer to the medial coronal plane of the head compared to the coronal plane of the head in use.

[0158] Each connector 518 includes an arm 526. The arm 526 has a front end 528 attached to the rear edge region 520 of the display unit housing 522 and a rear end 530 that forms part of a link 564 connecting the arm 526 to the support hoop 516.

[0159] The support hoop 516 may have a three-dimensional contour that fits or conforms to the shape of the user's head. The support hoop 516 includes an anterior portion 538 (also referred to as an anterior support portion or anterior support portion) generally positioned on or between the frontal or parietal bone (e.g., to contact the front region of the user's head), and an occipital portion 540 (also referred to as a posterior support portion or posterior support portion) generally positioned on or between the occipital or parietal bone (e.g., to contact the back region of the user's head). The occipital portion 540 is preferably positioned along a portion of the occipital bone (e.g., along a portion of the occipital bone adjacent the junction where the neck muscles attach to the occipital bone), and the anterior portion 538 is preferably positioned anterior to a coronal plane extending through the superior ear base point. In the illustrated example, the anterior portion 538 and the occipital portion 540 extend transversely to the sagittal plane. 10a-10c, anterior or front support portion 538 of support hoop 516 is adapted to extend or be disposed in plane 539, and occipital or posterior support portion 540 of support hoop 516 is adapted to extend or be disposed in plane 549, with planes 539 and 549 each adapted to extend transversely to the sagittal plane. In examples, plane 549 may be referred to as a first plane and plane 539 may be referred to as a second plane, although this may be merely to illustrate the distinction between planes 549 and 539. That is, although the terms "first" and "second" (etc.) are used, unless otherwise specified, these terms are not intended to indicate any ordering, but are merely used to distinguish between separate elements, e.g., planes.

[0160] The anterior portion 538 and the occipital portion 540 may be rigid components and include adjustment mechanisms 562. In particular, the rigid components of the anterior and occipital portions may take any of the forms of stiffeners or stiffener arms as described above. In examples, the anterior portion 538 and / or the occipital portion 540 may include multiple slots (e.g., on one or both sides of the anterior portion 538 and / or the occipital portion 540) that form multiple hinges along the components (see, e.g., slot 543 in the occipital portion in FIGS. 9a and 9b). These hinges create flexible sections within the anterior portion 538 and / or the occipital portion 540. These hinges allow the anterior portion 538 and / or the occipital portion 540 to articulate and conform to minute variations in the user's head, distributing loads more evenly over the head.

[0161] In some forms, an adjustment mechanism 562 can be located on one or both of the stiffener arms and / or at the connection point between the anterior portion 538 and the occipital portion 540. The adjustment mechanism 562 can be adjustable and operate to move the anterior portion 538 and the occipital portion 540 relative to one another. In some forms, the adjustment mechanism 562 can be adjustable and operate to change the distance (e.g., distance or displacement 545 (e.g., offset)) between the anterior portion 538 and the occipital portion 540, as shown in FIG. 10b. In some forms, the adjustment mechanism 562 can be adjustable and operate to change the angle between the anterior portion 538 and the occipital portion 540.

[0162] In some forms, the anterior portion 538 and the occipital region 540 may articulate around an adjustment mechanism 562 of the support hoop 516, allowing the anterior portion 538 to rotate forward or backward, for example, relative to the coronal plane, and the occipital region 540 to rise or fall relative to the Frankfort horizontal plane.

[0163] In some forms, articulating the anterior portion 538 and the occipital portion 540 may allow adjustment of the distance between the anterior portion 538 and the occipital portion 540. In some forms, the adjustment mechanism 562 may include a sliding assembly in which at least one of the anterior or occipital portions is slidable between an in-line position and at least one offset position. In the in-line position, the anterior portion is positioned flush with the occipital portion. In the at least one offset position, the anterior portion is positioned in an offset plane (i.e., non-flush) relative to the occipital portion. The offset plane may or may not be parallel to the plane of the occipital portion.

[0164] The adjustment mechanism 562 may further include a guide 566 that guides one of the anterior or occipital sections as they move relative to one another between the in-line and offset positions. The guide 566 may take the form of an elongated slot disposed in one of the anterior or occipital sections, with a corresponding guide pin disposed in the other of the anterior or occipital sections. The guide 566 allows the corresponding guide pin to move within the elongated slot (for slidable adjustment).

[0165] In some forms, guides 566 provide camming and sliding motion for the anterior and occipital regions. The guides may take the form of linear slots, arcuate slots, or other variations to introduce additional translational behavior between the anterior and occipital regions. Additionally, guides 566 may be positioned at specific angles relative to Frankfurt horizontal to adjust the translational behavior of the anterior region 538 and occipital region 540.

[0166] The adjustment mechanism 562 allows the anterior portion 538 and occipital portion 540 of the hoop 516 to be configured in any one of the following positions or combinations: parallel to each other and flush with each other; parallel to each other and offset from each other; angled relative to each other; and angled relative to the temporal arms. The advantages of some of the above combinations are described below.

[0167] 10a, an in-line configuration is illustrated in which the anterior portion 538 is positioned in the same plane as the occipital portion 540, as indicated by the dotted line (i.e., the plane 539 formed by the anterior portion 538 of the hoop 516 is coplanar with the plane 549 formed by the occipital portion 540 of the hoop 516). The anterior and occipital portions may be moved relative to one another to move from the in-line position to one or more offset positions (e.g., positions in which the planes 539 and 549 are not coplanar). Referring to FIGS. 10b and 10c, an offset configuration is illustrated in which the anterior portion 538 is offset to a plane different from and parallel to the plane of the occipital portion 540. As shown in FIGS. 10b and 10c, anterior portion 538 may be offset slightly away from occipital region 540 (e.g., the offset configuration creates a spacing, distance, or displacement 545 between surface 549 (e.g., a first surface) and surface 539 (e.g., a second surface), with an adjustment mechanism allowing selective adjustment of the spacing or displacement). That is, in FIGS. 10b and 10c, surface 539 formed by anterior portion 538 of hoop 516 is offset or non-coplanar with respect to surface 549 formed by occipital region 540 of hoop 516. In an example, as shown in FIG. 10b, offset surfaces 539 and 540 may be substantially parallel to one another and spaced apart by displacement 545, such that surface 539 is out of alignment with surface 549 (i.e., substantially parallel but not coplanar). In another example, as shown in FIG. 10c, the offset surfaces may be non-parallel (ie, surface 539 is disposed at an angle relative to surface 549).

[0168] In some configurations, the anterior and occipital regions are locked into a parallel configuration (i.e., they cannot rotate away from the parallel configuration). An example of this configuration is shown in Figures 10b and 10c. Corresponding schematics of Figures 10b and 10c are shown in Figures 11a and 11b, respectively.

[0169] 11a, an in-line configuration is illustrated (i.e., there is no offset between the anterior region 538 and the occipital region 540). In this configuration, a counterclockwise moment Mw is generated due to the weight Fw of the display unit 512 and the horizontal displacement D2 from the pivot point 541 of the display system located at the contact area of ​​the anterior portion 538 of the support hoop 516 (i.e., Mw=Fw×D2). As a result of the alignment of both the anterior region 538 and the occipital region 540, no internal moments are generated within the anterior and occipital regions to assist or oppose the resistance force provided by the positioning and stabilizing structure 514 (i.e., no clockwise moment is generated from the anterior and occipital regions). For comparison, referring to FIG. 11b, when an offset (i.e., displacement D1) is introduced between the anterior and occipital regions, a corresponding clockwise moment Mt (i.e., Mt=Ft×D1) is generated in the hoop 516 to help resist the moment Mw introduced on the system by the display unit 512.

[0170] In the parallel and offset configuration of Figure 11b, the separation introduced between the anterior and occipital regions generates a moment Mt, which is clockwise and counteracts the counterclockwise moment Mw generated on the user's face by the display unit 512. Advantageously, this configuration allows for balancing of the acting moments placed on the system 510, thereby improving comfort in use when wearing the positioning and stabilizing structure.

[0171] 11a-11c, the location of the pivot point 541 determines the moment arm length D2 for the moment Mw caused by the display unit 512. However, the further forward this pivot point 541 is moved on the forehead (under different adjustments of the support hoop 516), the more vertical the surface on which the front portion 538 is placed. This may reduce the generated moment, but may require more clamping pressure on the support hoop 516 to resist downward sliding of the support hoop 516 on the face. Thus, when a balance is achieved between these competing criteria, a more optimal solution may be achieved, supporting both comfort and fit for the user. In an example, the front portion 538 (e.g., providing the pivot point 541) is configured and arranged to engage the user's head along the top of the frontal bone or along a portion of the parietal bone (e.g., above the forehead of a user with a less vertical head shape), thereby reducing the force that prevents the positioning and stabilizing structure from sliding downward in front of the user's head under the weight of the display unit 512 during use. This reduced force allows for improved comfort while providing stable support for the display system. In an example (see, e.g., FIG. 13a), a forehead support 25 (e.g., a forehead pad) may optionally be provided on the display unit to provide a light-load contact point on the user's forehead (e.g., for improved stability). In such an example, the forehead support applies less force than the front portion 538, for example, to avoid discomfort on the forehead (e.g., red marks on the skin).

[0172] In some other configurations, as shown in FIG. 11c, the occipital region 540 can be angled independently relative to the anterior region 538 in addition to being offset from the anterior region 538. Adjusting the angle of the occipital region 540 to be more vertically oriented allows for more effective application of downward load from the occipital region 540 to the positioning and stabilizing structure. Advantageously, this can more effectively balance the load of the display unit 512, resulting in a more stable positioning and stabilizing structure. Furthermore, adjusting the angle of the occipital region 540 can more effectively anchor the occipital region (i.e., the unique shape of the user's head) to the user. In this example, adjusting the angle of the occipital region 540 increases the offset (i.e., displacement D1+) between the anterior and occipital regions, thereby increasing the clockwise moment Mt (i.e., Mt = Ft x D1+) in the hoop 516 and more effectively helping to resist the moment Mw generated on the system by the display unit 512.

[0173] In some other configurations, the anterior portion 538 may be independently angled (or moved) relative to the occipital region 540. Angling the anterior portion may allow the center of mass of the head mounted display system to be optimally positioned on the user's head. Advantageously, controlling the center of mass position may help balance moment loads on the head mounted display system, thereby improving the stability of the positioning and stabilizing structure. As a result, the head mounted display system may be prevented from sliding downward on the user's face during use.

[0174] As shown in the embodiment of Figures 9a-10c, the occipital section 540 may further include an intermediate adjustment mechanism. In some forms, the adjustment mechanism takes the form of a connecting strap 542. For example, as shown in Figure 10a, the strap 542 may be attached around a posterior intermediate region of the occipital section 540 and threaded through opposing holes 563 in each posterior end 568 of opposing arms of the occipital section 540 (similar to strap 362 in Figure 7b).

[0175] The straps 542 may be formed from an elastic material to assist in conforming to the user's head shape. In some forms, the distance between the rear ends 568 can be manually controlled (i.e., varied) by pulling the straps through the holes 563 more or less. Both the elastic and manual control methods function to maintain positive pressure on the occipital region 540, which in turn maintains positive pressure on the positioning and stabilizing structure during use. Advantageously, the straps 542 maintain tension in the positioning and stabilizing structure during dynamic loading scenarios (e.g., when the user moves their head and body (e.g., when operating the head-mounted display unit 512)).

[0176] In some configurations, the intermediate adjustment mechanism does not support moment loads from the display unit 512. In this configuration, the anterior and occipital configurations function to balance the head mounted display on the user's head, so that moment loads applied from the display unit 512 do not need to be supported by the straps 542. In this way, the intermediate adjustment mechanism is isolated from supporting loads in the positioning and stabilizing structure.

[0177] 12a and 12b, positive pressure (i.e., forward load) is applied from straps 542 to the positioning and stabilizing structure, which holds the occipital region 540 of support hoop 516 close to the occipital bone of the user's head. The magnitude of the load applied from occipital region 540 can be small enough to counteract the dynamic loads applied to the head mounted display during use, so that excessive pressure is not applied into the occipital region of the user's head. Tension applied to straps 542 can help prevent the head mounted display from sliding downward on the user's face during use.

[0178] 12a shows a first example of a preload applied from strap 542. In this configuration, a counterclockwise moment Mw is generated by the weight vector Fw of the display unit 512 and its horizontal displacement D2 from the pivot point 541 of the display system (i.e., Mw = Fw x D2), and a clockwise moment Mt is generated in the hoop 516 via the tension force vector Ft and offset (i.e., displacement D1) between the anterior region 538 and the occipital region 540 (i.e., Mt = Ft x D1) to resist the moment Mw. Furthermore, an additional force vector Fb is generated by bending the occipital region 540 inward (via the preload applied from strap 542), which generates an additional moment Mb (i.e., Mb = Fb x D3). Thus, moments Mt and Mb together more effectively help resist the moment Mw generated on the system by the display unit 512.

[0179] FIG. 12b shows a second example of a preload applied from strap 542. In this configuration, a counterclockwise moment Mw is generated by the weight vector Fw of the display unit 512 and its horizontal displacement D2 from the pivot point 541 of the display system (i.e., Mw = Fw x D2), and a clockwise moment Mt is generated in the hoop 516 via the tension force vector Ft and offset (i.e., displacement D1) between the anterior region 538 and the occipital region 540 (i.e., Mt = Ft x D1), resisting the moment Mw. Furthermore, an additional force vector Fb2 is generated by bending the occipital region 540 outward (via the preload applied from strap 542), resulting in an additional moment Mb2 (i.e., Mb2 = Fb2 x D3). In this example, moment Mt resists the moments Mw and Mb2 generated on the system.

[0180] In some forms, the intermediate adjustment mechanism may include rigidly coupled elastic portions that may be attached, for example, around an intermediate region approximately posterior to the occipital region 540 and threaded through opposing holes 563 on each of the posterior ends 568. The length of the rigidly coupled elastic portions may be manually controlled (i.e., adjustable) to increase or decrease the distance between the posterior ends 568, thereby adjusting the size of the positioning and stabilizing structure to fit heads of different shapes and / or configurations.

[0181] The rigidly coupled elastic section includes an elastic component and a non-elastic component. The connection of these components limits the elongation of the elastic component by the length of the non-elastic component. In some embodiments, the length of the elastic component is shorter than the non-elastic component, causing the elastic component to elongate until its elongation length equals the length of the non-elastic component. For example, when the rigidly coupled elastic section is attached to the positioning and stabilizing structure during use, a user may apply a dynamic load to the head-mounted display (e.g., as the user jumps or moves around), and the elastic component applies sufficient tension to the user's head to prevent the positioning and stabilizing structure from slipping off. If the user applies excessive dynamic load to the head-mounted display, the non-elastic component may prevent the occipital region 540 from displacing away from the user's head (i.e., loosening the fit), ensuring that the head-mounted display does not slip off the user's head.

[0182] 12c, the positioning and stabilizing structure 514 may exhibit a high level of adjustability, allowing for intuitive fit and adjustment. Furthermore, the structure provides responsive stability capable of accommodating the dynamic movements of the user. As an additional feature of this design, responsive forces generated by the display unit 512 are accommodated by the anterior region 538 and the occipital region 540, while allowing for independent fine adjustment of the display unit. Specifically, adjusting the display unit 512 in the anterior and posterior directions controls the contact pressure of the interfacing structure on the face (e.g., adjusting until the forehead pads provided on the interfacing structure lightly contact the face). Adjustment in the front portion 538 helps accommodate different head sizes and locations of the display unit 512 in the up and down positions (e.g., headphone-style adjustment (e.g., self-leveling contact) relative to the ear holds the display unit at the correct height), while adjustment in the occipital region 540 helps with fit, contact point location, and amount of reaction moment generated to aid comfort and load distribution in the positioning and stabilizing structure 514 (e.g., the occipital region 540 provides a combination of properties: stiffness for control of traction direction, conformability for comfort and grip, elasticity for a snug, self-holding system, coupled with selective adjustment).

[0183] 13b, the forehead support connector 524 may further include a forehead support stiffener 556. In some forms, pre-tensioning the forehead support stiffener applies a moment load to the positioning and stabilizing structure 514, urging the display unit housing 522 to rotate inward (i.e., move rearward (as indicated by the arrow) toward the user's face during use). Advantageously, when the display unit housing 522 is oriented toward (or toward) the user's face, tensioning from the strap 542 on the positioning and stabilizing structure 514 is not required to pull the display unit toward (or toward) the user's face. The moment load generated by the pre-tensioned forehead support stiffener 556 functions similarly to a spring load on the display unit 512. Schematic lines 566 and 568 in FIG. 13b show the stiffener 556 in its loaded and unloaded states, respectively. In the loaded state (line 566), when the positioning and stabilizing structure is on the user's head in use, the display unit 512 is biased towards the user's face and the stiffeners 556 act like leaf springs, deflecting away from the user's face. In the unloaded or unloaded state (line 568), a preload is applied to the stiffeners 556, causing the display unit housing 522 to deflect inward, preparing to receive the user's face.

[0184] (5.1.1.7 Central support structure) 14a-14b, disclosed are further embodiments of a positioning and stabilizing structure 614 for a head-mounted display system 610. The head-mounted display system 610 differs from the embodiment shown in Figures 9a-13b in that the head-mounted display system 610 further includes a central support structure 662 (e.g., a hub component) positioned to mount the head-mounted display system 610 around the ears of a user. In the illustrated example, the central support structure 662 may include a central portion or hub of the positioning and stabilizing structure 614 that connects to the anterior portion 638 and / or occipital region 640.

[0185] In examples, the hub component 662 is rotatably connected to an anterior portion 638 (also referred to as an anterior section) and / or an occipital portion 640 (also referred to as a posterior section). The anterior and occipital portions articulate around the hub 662, allowing the anterior portion 638 to rotate forward or backward, for example, relative to the coronal plane, and the occipital portion 640 to rise or fall relative to the Frankfort horizontal.

[0186] 14b, two possible configurations of the anterior portion 638 relative to the hub 662 are shown. In the first example (shown in solid lines), the anterior portion 638 is configured proximal to the parietal bone. In the second example (shown in dashed lines), the anterior portion 638 is configured proximal to the frontal bone.

[0187] In some forms, the front portion 638 can be independently angled (or moved) relative to the occipital portion 640. The front portion can be adjusted to move toward the center of gravity of the display system. In some forms, the occipital portion can be moved upward or downward to support the positioning and stabilizing structure against the occipital bone of the user's head. In some other forms, the occipital portion 640 can include a type of counterweight (w) to balance the display unit 612 (see, e.g., FIGS. 14a and 14b).

[0188] 14c, the hub 662 may, in use, direct forces (i.e., force vectors) applied from the anterior portion 638 and the occipital portion 640 toward the periphery of the user's ears. For example, in some forms, the occipital portion 640 may articulate around the periphery of the hub 662 and move to a position that is offset and parallel to the anterior portion 638. In this configuration, the force (i.e., vector) applied to the occipital portion 640 may translate from the periphery of the hub 662 through the anterior portion 638.

[0189] 14d, in some forms, the hub component 662 is also rotatably connected to the display unit 612. The display unit may articulate around the hub 662 to allow rotation of the display unit (i.e., movement relative to Frankfurt horizontal). For example, the display unit may be raised or lowered relative to the user's eyes. That is, the positioning and stabilizing structure may allow upward movement, e.g., upward pivoting (or swiveling movement), of the display unit so that the display unit can be moved to a non-operating position without removing the positioning and stabilizing structure (e.g., flip-up). In some forms, the swiveling movement (or swiveling movement) of the display unit requires a swiveling arrangement (or swiveling movement) that includes the positioning and stabilizing structure. In some forms, this pivotal arrangement may provide a release mechanism at the forehead support connector (e.g., to releasably lock the display unit in an operative (i.e., lowered) position and a non-operative (i.e., raised) position) and / or restrict the hinge area at the temporal connector (e.g., a release mechanism that restricts the hinge area so that the hinge movement of the temporal connector (e.g., in connection to the display unit) can be restricted).

[0190] In some forms, the hub component 662 can support a portion of the weight of the display unit 612, providing a pivot point around the ears and mid-coronal region of the user of the head-mounted display system 610. This can reduce forward load and aid in angular adjustment of the display unit 612 around the hub 662.

[0191] Two examples of possible configurations of the display unit 612 are shown in Figure 14d. In the first example, the display unit 612 is configured in front of the user's eyes (i.e., generally parallel to the Frankfurt horizontal plane). In the second example, the display unit is shown in an elevated position above the user's eyes (i.e., angled relative to the Frankfurt horizontal plane). Advantageously, moving the display unit 612 between these two positions allows the user to move the display unit 612 away from their eyes during use (e.g., game play) or before donning and removing the head-mounted display system 610.

[0192] In some forms, an acoustic device (A) (i.e., headphones (e.g., noise canceling)) may be positioned on the hub 662 (see FIG. 14b). The acoustic device A may be configured to releasably engage with the hub 662 (e.g., around a snap-lock type feature). In some forms, the acoustic device A may be positioned on the hub 662 to enclose the user's ear in use.

[0193] (5.1.1.8 Materials and Composites) In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 includes a strap constructed from a laminate of an elastic (e.g., elastomer and / or textile) skin-contacting layer, a foam inner layer, and a textile outer layer. In other words, the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 includes at least one strap 14. In one form, the foam material is porous to allow moisture (e.g., sweat) to pass through the strap. In one form, the textile outer layer includes a hook material portion, e.g., a loop material that engages with the tab portion 54. In some forms of the present technology, the skin-contacting layer is formed from a material that helps direct moisture in the core away from the user's face. This can help maintain comfort when the user sweats while wearing the user interface.

[0194] In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilizing structure 14 is provided that is configured to have a low-profile appearance or cross-sectional thickness to reduce the perceived or actual bulk of a device (or display system). In one example, the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 includes at least one strap 14 having a generally rectangular cross-section. In another example, the positioning and stabilizing structure includes at least one strap. The strap profile includes one or more curved edges for improved comfort and reduced risk of marking or irritation to the user from the strap.

[0195] In some embodiments, the straps of the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 may be at least partially constructed of or include at least one synthetic polymer (e.g., nylon and / or polyurethane (e.g., Lycra)). Additionally, the straps may include, for example, different layers of different materials. The different layers may be welded to one another. In an example, the straps may include different layers of different materials (e.g., an outer layer of an aesthetically pleasing material and / or an inner layer (constructed of a soft and / or comfortable material) that faces the user's head). For example, the straps forming the crown portion of the hoop may be constructed of an inexpensive and / or comfortable material. In a further example, with reference to FIGS. 28 and 29 , the straps (e.g., strap 14) may include an inner layer 17 having a low-density polyurethane foam having a thickness of 2.5 to 4.0 millimeters (mm), and an outer layer 15 configured to surround the inner layer 17. The outer layer 15 may be formed from a laminate layer constructed of nylon, polyester, another similar material (which may be manufactured to provide a soft outer surface, or a mixture thereof). The laminate layer may include one or more layers. In some forms, the outer layer 15 may be formed from a blend of nylon and polyester. As a result, the choice of strap material(s) may improve the comfort of the strap.

[0196] In some forms, the outer layer 15 of the straps of the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 may include an elastic component comprised of a stretchy nylon knit formed to slide freely (or longitudinally) over an inner layer 17 that acts as a stiffener (e.g., FIG. 28). The stiffener (i.e., inner layer 17) may act as a frame (or support) for the straps 14 and may be formed from a material such as TPE that is advantageously lightweight and allows for controlled flexibility.

[0197] In examples, the straps can be a single layer component (e.g., elastomer / fabric). Alternatively, the straps can be composite or multiple layer components (e.g., fabric and foam composite) or an outer fabric layer and an inner spacer fabric. The straps can be constructed of spandex or elastane / foam composite, or can be formed of other suitable materials (e.g., 3D spacer fabric or double-knit interlock fabric).

[0198] Different materials and / or different straps for different layers of the strap portion may be selected depending on the particular properties / functions / requirements. In an example, the straps of the positioning and stabilizing structure may be BPA-free and Gelamid® may be added to at least a portion of the strap.

[0199] In some configurations, it may be desirable for at least one of the materials used for the strap(s) of the positioning and stabilizing structure to be breathable. In a further example, the straps may be formed from a breathable neoprene alternative material. For example, the neoprene alternative material may have inner and outer elastic layers comprising a porous four-way stretch fabric. The inner layer is designed to direct core moisture away from the skin surface, and the outer fabric layer is a loop fabric that accepts Velcro® hooks.

[0200] The fabric on the user-contacting side may preferably have the same weave as the fabric on the non-user-contacting side so that the stretch characteristics of the strap are approximately equal on both sides. It is also preferable that the fabric on the user-contacting side have the same heat-shrink characteristics as the non-user-contacting side to avoid uneven deformation of the positioning and stabilizing structure (when treated or exposed to heat or otherwise thermoformed).

[0201] The fabric on the user-contacting side can be a different fabric than the non-user-contacting side, so that the fabric on the user-contacting side is more comfortable than the non-user-contacting side.

[0202] The straps may be cut from a sheet material (e.g., a laminated frame) or may be cut from a roll of narrow, resilient (e.g., elastomeric and / or woven) strapping that is then thermoformed and ultrasonically welded to create curved edges and then ultrasonically welded together. These straps may have a geometry that allows for nesting on the sheet, thereby increasing yield (e.g., the geometry may be substantially linear).

[0203] In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure may include straps constructed as separate elements. Thus, the positioning and stabilizing structure may be comprised of an assembly of straps (i.e., a strap assembly). For example, the straps 48 may be connected to the crown portion 38, for example, by a welded joint. These separate elements may be joined together during the manufacturing process. Alternatively, the straps of the positioning and stabilizing structure may be constructed or fabricated as one piece. In another example, the straps 48 and crown portion 38 may be cut from a single sheet of material.

[0204] Designing these strap pieces separately may provide flexibility in making the strap pieces relatively small, leading to increased yields and a simpler manufacturing process. Additionally, the strap piece design may also allow for less material waste when cutting from a single sheet, for example, because the crown strap is substantially rectangular in shape. Furthermore, manufacturing the strap assembly in separate pieces may allow for the substitution of less expensive, more comfortable, and / or more aesthetically pleasing colors of materials.

[0205] The width and thus footprint of the straps of the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 can be further reduced by utilizing different materials, different strap thicknesses, and / or different compositions. Different and / or less expensive materials can be used for some parts or regions of the structure 14 (e.g., with the same support and / or comfort). In an example, the crown portion of the hoop can have a greater thickness compared to the occipital portion of the hoop. This can lead to increased comfort. Additionally, a smaller overall size in the occipital portion of the hoop can allow the user to bend their head back toward their spine (e.g., in a posterior direction), providing more freedom of movement.

[0206] The joints between adjacent strap portions can be constructed as thinned areas or thinned joints for flexibility. The thinned areas can function as flex points or hinges (e.g., living hinges) to allow increased flexibility where desired. For flex point or hinge reinforcement, hot melt seam tape can be used, or a thinner fabric layer can be used with an adhesive backing or other reinforcement method.

[0207] Such hinged connections may allow the straps to better conform to the shape of the user's head. A combination of linear and non-linear joints may be used to achieve a desired level of flexibility and bending direction, as well as a desired level of three-dimensional shaping, in a component constructed from a series of pieces of originally flat material (e.g., fabric or paper). Such shaping may include darts, tucks, gathers, or curved seams.

[0208] In some instances, controlled bending regions can be created by alternating materials with different flexibility. Components can be stacked on top of each other and ultrasonically welded to eliminate gaps. User interfacing components can be constructed from flexible materials (e.g., flexible fabrics).

[0209] In an example, the forehead support connector 24, which extends across the user's forehead bone and connects to the support hoop 16, may be connected together by welding (e.g., ultrasonic welding). In an example, portions of the forehead support connector 24 and the hoop 16 may overlap. These members may be placed into an ultrasonic welding tool.

[0210] An advantage of the ultrasonic welding process is that flush or butt joints do not increase component thickness at the joint, resulting in aesthetically pleasing results, as opposed to the inevitable overlap and thickness inconsistencies of stitching. Even when the edges of two or more components are butted and sewn together (with little to no substantial overlap to form a seam), the stitching can result in a rougher, stiffer, and taller joint. Furthermore, forming flush or butt joints with ultrasonic welding results in a smooth connection, which may reduce skin irritation, chafing, or facial marks, even when reinforced with seam reinforcement tape. An advantage of using overlapping ultrasonic welding variations is that it may be possible to join multiple components in a single operation on a single machine. Furthermore, the ultrasonic welding process can be designed so that the joint is embodied as a thinned area or section between the components.

[0211] In embodiments, the straps may be thermoformed, after which the edges of the straps may be ultrasonically cut. The thermoformed and ultrasonically cut straps result in curved edges that substantially reduce facial imprints during use. Additionally, the thermoformed and ultrasonically cut edges are softer and have fewer sharp edges, which feel more comfortable on the user's face during use (e.g., more comfortable around the user's ears).

[0212] In a further embodiment, at least a portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure may be constructed from spacer fabric, and the edges of the spacer fabric may be ultrasonically welded, which may allow the edges of the spacer fabric to be curved, which reduces facial imprinting and increases comfort for the user.

[0213] In embodiments, one or more aspects of the positioning and stabilizing structure may be configured to improve comfort. For example, the stiffener may be relatively thin. In another example, the strap may include a nylon stiffener encapsulated in foam. In such embodiments, increasing the density of the foam may improve comfort and reduce the chance of the nylon stiffener being felt. Alternatively, the thickness of the foam may be used to vary the softness or roundness of the strap's edges. For example, a thicker foam layer is more likely to have rounded corners than a thinner foam layer. In further embodiments, the foam may start at one thickness and be compressed to another thickness during processing.

[0214] In embodiments, the foam on the user-contacting side may be less dense or less stiff than the foam on the non-user-contacting side. There may be more than one foam layer and more than one stiffener component.

[0215] In some alternative embodiments, the rigidifier may include a semi-rigid molded component overmolded with a soft polymeric material (e.g., TPE, TPU). The polymeric material provides a softer material for contact with the user's face during use. In some configurations, the molded component may be provided with a soft-touch or flock coating.

[0216] In certain forms of the present technology, the positioning and stabilizing structures may be formed with a biocompatible material as an outer surface (e.g., silicone rubber, textile laminate), which may be non-toxic and pose a low risk of skin reactions.

[0217] In certain forms of the present technology, the positioning and stabilizing structures may be formed from durable materials that can withstand daily use (eg, repeated disassembly and cleaning).

[0218] In some forms, a reduction in the overall weight of a head-mounted display may be proportional to a reduction in one or more of the following: (a) the number of components; (b) the stiffness of the positioning and stabilizing structure; (c) the stiffness of the interfacing structure; and (d) the ability to adjust the characteristics of the head-mounted display (e.g., the positioning and stabilizing structure or the interfacing structure).

[0219] For example, foam (e.g., polyurethane foam, or viscoelastic foam) or foam-like components may be lighter and more compliant than silicone components. In a further example, bridging the cross-sections of the positioning and stabilizing structure with spacer fabrics comprising lightweight materials (e.g., woven fabrics) may assist in weight reduction. However, if a certain rigidity is required, using silicone or TPE (e.g., in a frame rigidifier) ​​may be appropriate.

[0220] 5.1.1.9 Forehead Support Configuration 3a, the forehead support connector 24 of the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 may be connected to the upper edge region 21 of the display unit housing 22. In some forms, the connector 24 may be connected to the display unit housing 22 (e.g., at the periphery of the forehead support 25) (see, e.g., FIG. 13a). The forehead support 25 is adjustable to allow the positioning and stabilizing structure to accommodate the configuration of the user's face.

[0221] (5.1.1.9.1 Forehead support) 13a, forehead support 25 may be connected to upper edge region 21 of display unit housing 22 and may in some forms be mechanically coupled to forehead support connector 24. Support 25 may include forehead contact portion 27. Forehead contact portion 27 is adapted to contact the user's forehead to support and stabilize the load of display unit 12.

[0222] The forehead support 25 can be configured to be substantially straight or curved. If the connector (i.e., the forehead support 25) is curved, the curvature will generally follow the curvature of the user's forehead. While this is the most likely configuration, it is within the scope of the present invention to use a forehead support 25 with an opposite curvature or any combination thereof. The forehead support 25 can be made of a thermoplastic material.

[0223] The forehead support 25 may be presented at an angle generally parallel to the user's forehead, improving user comfort. This may advantageously reduce the likelihood of soreness due to pressure points caused by irregularities. In use, some user anatomy may require the forehead support 25 to be positioned higher than the forehead. In this case, the angle of presentation of the support 25 may be adjusted to suit the user.

[0224] Forehead support 25 may be provided with one or more openings that may be adapted to accommodate a number of purposes, such as connection points to the housing, connection points to any other support surface, connection points for straps (e.g., forehead support straps 48) for securing the head-mounted display to a user, and apertures for forehead contacts (e.g., forehead contact pads (or forehead pads)).

[0225] In some forms of forehead support 25, apertures are designed to receive forehead pads. These apertures can be located around the periphery of forehead support 25 to allow the user to adjust the position of the forehead pads.

[0226] The apertures are also designed to allow a user to fixedly attach the forehead pad to the forehead support 25. In some forms, the apertures are designed to allow a user to fixedly and reversibly attach the forehead pad to the forehead support 25. In some forms, the forehead pad is adapted to releasably engage with the forehead support 25.

[0227] In one form, the forehead pad is generally plate-like or disk-like in shape. In another form, the pad may have a concave surface that corresponds to the convexity of the user's forehead in use. Possible shapes for the base of the forehead pad include rectangular and oval.

[0228] In one form, the forehead pad may include one or more portions. In an embodiment, two base portions of the forehead pad are provided to be positioned above the user's left and right eyebrows.

[0229] 5.1.1.9.2 Forehead Contact Portion The forehead contact portion 27 includes a forehead contact surface 29. In the in-use position, the forehead contact surface 29 is placed on the user's forehead region. In some forms, the forehead contact portion 27 may be made of an elastomeric material.

[0230] Contact surface 29 may optionally include a raised surface pattern. This pattern reduces the potential for a suction effect on the surface, thereby reducing blood draw in the area and thus providing a more comfortable contact. This raised pattern also provides sweat reduction benefits. In another embodiment, a sandblasted finish on the surface improves ventilation and reduces the potential for sweating.

[0231] In some embodiments, cutting out the contact surface 29 may result in increased flexibility of the contact portion. Another benefit of such cutting out the portion is that it may allow the contact portion 27 to better accommodate rotation and twisting of the display unit on the user's face during use. An additional benefit of cutout portions in the contact portion is that it may reduce the effect of a single pressure point on the forehead (e.g., reducing discomfort).

[0232] In some embodiments, the contact portion includes a jacket defining a hollow chamber filled with a viscous medium such that the jacket wall forming contact surface 29 (away from the user's forehead region) is substantially subjected to the pressure of the viscous medium. The viscous material-filled hollow chamber may be used as an interface between the user and other components of the positioning and stabilizing structure (e.g., at the support hoop), and may also be used in interfacing portions.

[0233] In some configurations, the forehead contacts may comprise materials including rubber and flexible plastic. In some embodiments, the contacts are constructed from hardened liquid silicone rubber or silicone of suitable hardness. These examples are illustrative only and in no way limiting.

[0234] (5.1.1.9.3 Forehead Support Connector Strap) 3a-3c, the forehead support connector 24 of the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 includes a forehead support strap 48 positioned to extend generally along or parallel to the sagittal plane of the user's head. The strap 48 is adapted to connect between the upper edge region 21 of the display unit housing 22 and the crown portion 38 of the rear support hoop 16. In one embodiment, the strap 48 can be non-adjustably connected to the crown portion 38, for example, by a welded joint, and the strap 48 can be adjustably connected to the display unit housing 22 by an adjustment mechanism 50.

[0235] The strap 48 is adjustable to allow for dimensional control of the forehead support connector 24. As shown in FIGS. 3 a and 3 c, an end or tab portion 54 of the strap 48 is threaded through a forehead support hole 52 in the upper edge region 21 of the display unit 12 during use. After the strap 48 passes through the hole 52 in the display unit 12, it may be secured to itself using, for example, a hook and loop fastening means, which allows for fine or micro-adjustment of the strap for comfort and fit (e.g., tightness). In one embodiment, the forehead support strap 48 may comprise a similar material to the rear support hoop 16 and / or the connecting strap 42, such as a woven foam composite (e.g., a breathable material such as a multi-layer structure including an outer woven fabric layer and an inner foam layer).

[0236] The forehead support connector 24 supports the weight of the display unit 12. The length of the strap 48 between the upper edge region 21 of the display unit 12 and the crown portion 38 of the hoop 16 can be adjusted by slightly pulling the strap 48 through the holes 52. The strap can then be adjusted to raise or lower the position of the display unit 12 relative to the user's nose, such as by adjusting it to tilt or lift the display unit 12 relative to the user's face. This adjustment can move the display unit housing 22 away from the user's nose, relieving pressure felt on the face, nose, and / or cheeks. The forehead support connector 24 secures the display unit 12 in place to prevent it from sliding downward or sideways on the user's head.

[0237] In one embodiment, the thickness and / or width of the forehead support strap 48 may vary along at least a portion of its length, for example, the forehead support strap 48 may include wider and thinner portions along its length to facilitate connection and distribute loads.

[0238] In one embodiment, the adjustment mechanism 50 is positioned so that it does not contact the frontal bone region of the user during use.

[0239] In an alternative embodiment, the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 does not include the forehead support connector 24 / forehead support strap 48. See, for example, the embodiment of Figures 5a-5c.

[0240] 4a-4c show a support for a head-mounted display system 110 according to a second embodiment of the present technology. In FIGS. 4a-4c, like reference numerals refer to like parts as in FIGS. 3a-3c, and the addition of 100 allows distinction between embodiments, such as a display unit 112, a positioning and stabilizing structure 114, a rear support hoop 116, a temporal connector 118, a rear edge region 120, a display unit housing 122, a forehead support connector 124, temporal arms 126, a crown portion 138, an occipital portion 140, a connection strap 142, a forehead support strap 148, an adjustment mechanism 150, a forehead support hole 152, and an end portion 154. Referring to FIG. 4c, the forehead support connector 124 may further include a forehead support stiffener 156. The forehead support stiffener 156 can further stabilize and support the display unit 112 on the user's nose and cheeks, i.e., relieve pressure on the user's nose and cheeks. The stiffener 156 can be connected to the upper edge region 121 to form at least a portion of the forehead support hole 152 for receiving the end or tab portion 154 of the strap 148 for sizing adjustment of the positioning and stabilizing structure 114. As shown, the forehead support strap 148 is positioned below the forehead support stiffener 156 for comfort and load distribution.

[0241] In some configurations, the adjustment mechanism 150 may further include an angle adjustment mechanism for easily lifting the visor from an in-use position to a stowed or non-use position.

[0242] In one embodiment, the system may be constructed and arranged to redistribute one or more components from the display unit to the positioning and stabilizing structure, e.g., to redistribute weight from the display unit to the positioning and stabilizing structure. For example, the forehead support stiffener 156 and / or forehead support strap 148 may be used to at least partially support one or more non-local essential electrical components, such as a battery or hard drive storage device, shifting weight from the front of the user's head to a more central position, i.e., offsetting the weight of the display unit. Alternatively, one or more components from the display unit may be at least partially supported by the rear support hoop 116 and / or the temporal connectors 118 to redistribute weight.

[0243] (5.1.2 Interfacing Structure) The user interface may be characterized, in part, according to the design intent of where the interfacing structure engages the face during use. Some interfacing structures may be limited to engaging areas of the user's face that protrude beyond the arc of curvature of the interfacing structure's face-engaging surface. These areas may typically include the user's forehead and cheekbones. This may lead to user discomfort due to localized stress points during use. Other facial areas may not engage the interfacing structure at all or may only engage in a negligible manner, insufficiently increasing the translation distance of the clamping pressure. These areas may typically include the sides of the user's face or areas adjacent to and surrounding the user's nose. To the extent that a mismatch exists between the user's facial shape and the interfacing structure, one or both may be adaptable to form a suitable contact or other relationship.

[0244] In some embodiments of the present technology, the interfacing structure may include a single seal-forming element that, in use, overlays a portion of the nasal bridge region, the frontal bone region, and the left and right infraorbital margin regions of the face, respectively. In some embodiments, the interfacing structure may be designed for mass manufacturing. For example, the interfacing structure may be designed to comfortably fit a wide range of different face shapes and sizes.

[0245] 8 , in one form of the present technology, head mounted display system 410 further includes an interfacing structure 411. The interfacing structure 411 provides a facial interface or facial engagement portion 413 that is positioned to engage and face a user's face in use. In some forms, the interfacing structure 411 provides a cushioning function to improve overall comfort for the user. In some forms, the facial interface 413 may be positioned to at least partially block light from entering the display unit housing 422 in use.

[0246] The interfacing structure 411 extends around the periphery of a display housed in the display unit housing 422. The interfacing structure 411 may extend near the display and define a viewing opening to the display. In one example, the facial interface 413 may extend around the user's eyes and engage (e.g., lightly seal) with the user's face, for example, along the user's nose, cheeks, and / or forehead.

[0247] The positioning and stabilizing structure 414 can be attached to the display unit housing 422 so that the interfacing structure 411 of the present technology is held in an operable position on the user's face. In some alternative forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure 414 can be attached to a portion of the interfacing structure 411 so that the interfacing structure 411 of the present technology is held in an operable position on the user's face.

[0248] 15a shows a split front view of a further embodiment of an interfacing structure 611 in use. The interfacing structure 611 will typically be generally shaped to be otherwise symmetrical on either side of a central axis AA. The left-hand side of the central axis AA shows an example of the interfacing structure 611 as it may be positioned to engage a user's face generally around the periphery of the user's eyes in use. The right-hand side of the central axis AA shows an example of a user's face below the interfacing structure 611, indicating the facial area that may come into contact with the interfacing structure 611 in use. Broadly speaking, the interfacing structure 611 may be formed in the region of the epicranial muscles 601, over the region of the user's sphenoid bone 603, across the outer cheek region 605 from the sphenoid bone 603 to the left or right zygomatic arch 607, across the zygomatic arch 607, across the inner cheek region 609 from the zygomatic arch 607 to the alar apex 619, and on the user's nasal bridge 617 below the serion, enclosing a portion of the user's face therebetween.

[0249] The interfacing structure 611 provides a substantially continuous facial interface or face-engaging surface 613 around the periphery of the user's eye. That is, the facial interface or face-engaging surface 613 is adapted to contact the user's face over the region of the epicranial muscles and the sphenoid bone, and to seal the user's eye therebetween over the lateral cheek region from the sphenoid bone to the left or right zygomatic arch, over the zygomatic arch, over the medial cheek region from the zygomatic arch to the alar crest, and over the bridge of the nose below the serion. That is, the interfacing structure 611 provides continuous contact (e.g., at least some sealing) around the entire periphery of the user's eye, thereby avoiding or at least reducing undesired light ingress. In this regard, the substantially continuous facial interface or face-engaging surface 613 may be contoured and / or angled along its periphery to conform to or closely follow the contours / facial contours of the patient's face.

[0250] In use, the interfacing structure 611 may be compressed against the user's face (e.g., via the positioning and stabilizing structure), and the interfacing structure 611 may be constructed and arranged to distribute or distribute compressive forces or loads applied to the user's face around the periphery, thereby avoiding concentration of the load on a minimal number of contact points. Additionally, the interfacing structure 611 includes varying compliance around the periphery configured to enable selective distribution of forces onto the user's face. For example, the interfacing structure may include a first compliance in a first region and a second compliance in a second region, the first region and second region configured around the periphery of the interfacing structure to enable selective distribution of forces onto the user's face. This arrangement allows for higher levels of pressure to be distributed over areas of the user's face that are more susceptible to pressure absorption (e.g., the epicranial muscles and sphenoid bone).

[0251] In some forms of the present technology, a system is provided in which the interfacing structure is integrally formed with the display unit housing. In some forms of the present technology, for example in the embodiments shown in Figures 15b, 16a-16c, 18, 19, and 20a-20d, a system is provided in which the interfacing structure is formed as a separate, removable component (configured to be integrated with and retained by the display unit housing so as to engage and face the user's face in use). That is, the display unit housing can provide a common frame constructed and arranged to removably retain multiple interfacing structures (each corresponding to a different size and / or shape range and / or material type), thereby allowing for interchangeability of various interfacing structures based on fit or user preference.

[0252] Referring to FIG. 8 , when the interfacing structure 411 is formed as a detachable component, multiple embodiments of the interfacing structure 411 may be formed, each configured to accommodate a range of different sizes and / or shapes. For example, the head-mounted display system 410 may include one form of the interfacing structure 411 suitable for large head sizes. This may be inappropriate for users with smaller head sizes, resulting in reduced comfort and performance. An interfacing structure 411 suitable for small head sizes may also be inappropriate for users with larger head sizes, resulting in reduced comfort and performance for the user. Thus, a detachable interfacing structure 411 may be advantageous because it allows users to customize the head-mounted display system 410 and select an interfacing structure 411 that best fits their individual facial anthropomorphic features. In some further embodiments, the user may have their facial anthropomorphic features measured for customizing the design and forming the appropriate interfacing structure 411. Removable interfacing structure 411 also enables applications such as medical applications where structure 411 may be disposable or allow for separate cleaning compatible with surgical procedures.

[0253] Referring to FIG. 15b, when the interfacing structure 611 is formed as a removable component, it may be formed to include a chassis 621 of a rigid or semi-rigid material configured to facilitate engagement with the display unit housing 622. For example, in some embodiments, the chassis 621 may be formed of a plastic material. The chassis 621 may include one or more engaging elements 623 around its periphery. These engaging elements 623 are configured to removably mate with corresponding elements configured on the display unit housing 622. Where the number and location of engaging elements used in any given embodiment can ensure relative interlocking of the chassis 621 and the display unit housing 622 (without significant slippage between them), suitable engaging elements may include one or more of clips, fasteners, magnets, or Velcro®. For example, as shown in FIGS. 15a and 15b, the engaging elements 623 may be two clips laterally spaced apart from one another so as to be located on symmetrically opposite sides of the central axis AA. Similar engagement elements 723 are shown in Figures 16a-16c. In some further embodiments, in addition to the clips formed on the upper in-use portion of the chassis, a series of recesses may be formed on the lower in-use portion of the chassis. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, other combinations of engagement elements are contemplated within the functional scope of the present technology. In some further embodiments, the display unit housing may include grooves that engage with the outer peripheral rim of the chassis to provide additional vertical support for the engagement elements and further reduce relative movement between the display unit housing and the interfacing structure.

[0254] The chassis 621 serves as a base for the remainder of the interfacing structure 611. Additionally, the chassis 621 may provide a certain amount of rigidity and necessary structure to the interfacing support structure 615 of the interfacing structure 611 and, through it, to the facial interface or face-engaging surface 613. The chassis 621 may be adhesively engaged to the support structure 615 or, in some embodiments, mechanically bonded to the support structure 615. The method of bonding the chassis 621 to the support structure 615 depends on the material composition and its particular structure. The chassis 621 may be curved generally laterally across the user's face. In some embodiments, such as FIG. 16b, the curvature of the chassis 621 may be relatively small, and the support structure 715 may have varying depths laterally across the user's face because it is formed to extend across the distance from it to the user's face. In other words, support structure 715 may extend to a greater depth in areas adjacent the sides of the user's face compared to a shallower depth formed in areas proximal to the central axis AA of the user's face. In some embodiments, chassis 621, 721 and 821 may advantageously remain the same size and shape, while the remainder of interfacing structures 611, 711 and 811 may be modified to provide multiple modular embodiments or custom-designed modular embodiments (suitable for a user's individual facial anthropomorphism).

[0255] In some embodiments, the chassis, support structure, and face-engaging surface of the interfacing structure may be integrally formed as a single component including different thicknesses and finishes to provide a desired level of stiffness in the chassis or a desired level of cushioning in the face-engaging surface. For example, in some such embodiments, the interfacing structure may be formed from a single silicone body. In another embodiment, the interfacing structure may be integrally formed as a single component from a foam or elastomeric material.

[0256] In some embodiments, the chassis 721 may be formed as a separate component from the remainder of the interfacing structure 711. The interfacing structure 711 is fabricated from a single, integrally formed body (see, e.g., FIGS. 16a-16c). For example, in some embodiments, one or more regions of the face interface or face-engaging surface 713′ may be co-formed around the periphery of the interfacing structure 711′ as an inwardly protruding flange-like rim (e.g., membrane or flap) that originates from the support structure 715′ (see, e.g., FIG. 17a). Alternatively, in some embodiments, the face-engaging surface 713″ may be supported by a spring-like support flange 725″. A spring-like support flange 725" originates from the support structure 715" and is substantially coated on the underside of the face-engaging surface 713" (see, e.g., FIG. 17b). For example, both the support flange 725" and the support structure 715" may be formed from silicone, with the support flange 725" having a thinner material thickness than the support structure 715" and therefore providing a more compliant and resilient spring-like support to the portion of the interfacing structure 711" that engages the user's face. In some embodiments, the face-engaging surface 713" may be loosely nested on the support flange 725" so that they can each independently respond to compressive pressures applied when interacting with the user's face in use. In some embodiments, the nested face-engaging surface 713" may be bonded to the support flange 725" that it rests on, effectively forming a single body that responds in unison to compressive pressures applied when interacting with the user's face in use.

[0257] The face-engaging surface 713 may include one or more regions of silicone or one or more layers of a woven material or foam. One or more regions of the face-engaging surface 713 may be formed to have different thicknesses and / or different surface finishes such that the resulting face-engaging surface 713 may have variable compliance along itself when compressed against a user's face in use.

[0258] Part or all of the face-engaging surface 713 may be a (relatively) low-friction area. If silicone is used, this may be achieved by providing a so-called matte surface. The low-friction area may allow the sealing surface to adhere less closely to the user's face than would be the case without the low-friction area. For example, the low-friction area may be provided to allow the side(s) of the user's nose to slide freely along the face-engaging surface 713. Similarly, a fabric or foam material with a (relatively) low-friction outer surface finish may be used to form part or all of the face-engaging surface 713.

[0259] Part or all of the face-engaging surface 713 can be a (relatively) low-friction area. If silicone is used, this can be achieved by providing a so-called polished surface. The high-friction area allows the sealing surface to adhere better to the user's face (than without the low-friction area), thereby reducing slippage of the display unit housing 722. Similarly, part or all of the face-engaging surface 713 can be formed using a fabric or foam material with a (relatively) high-friction outer surface finish.

[0260] In some embodiments, one or more distinct regions of the face-engaging surface 713 may be formed with different finishes or different levels of friction to optimize the grip and holding performance of the face-engaging surface 713 while also improving user comfort (e.g., one or more regions of a matte surface and one or more regions of a glossy surface). In some embodiments, a combination of two or more materials may be used to form the entire face-engaging surface 713, with different materials being used in different regions. This may improve user comfort while also improving retention of the display unit housing 722.

[0261] In some embodiments, the use of silicone materials allows for improved heat-wicking capabilities of the face-engaging surface, which leads to increased user comfort.

[0262] 18 and 19, it can be seen that the support structure 715 has one or more distinct regions 715′ and 715″. These regions 715′ and 715″ have different thicknesses and / or are further supported by the addition of reinforcing ribs 715′′. In some regions, the support structure may be thinner 715′ or may have a generally lower resistance to compression (e.g., in regions adjacent the user's zygomatic arch, cheekbones, and nose). In other regions, the support structure may be thicker 715″ or may have a generally higher resistance to compression (e.g., in regions adjacent the user's forehead or sphenoid bone). In some embodiments, the thickness of the support structure 715 varies incrementally across itself (rather than as discrete regions having a single thickness). In some embodiments, the reinforcing ribs 715'" may be formed as wide regions of thicker material, while in other embodiments, the reinforcing ribs 715'" may be formed as narrower and / or less compliant strap-like supports from material.

[0263] Thinner regions of the support structure 715 may provide more compliant and resilient cushioning support to the upper face-engaging surface 713. For example, in some embodiments, the thinner regions may be formed from a silicone material having a thickness of 0.3 to 0.5 mm. In contrast, thicker regions of the support structure 715 may provide less compliant, more resistant, and relatively rigid structural support to the upper face-engaging surface 713. For example, in some embodiments, the thicker regions may be formed from a silicone material having a thickness of 1.5 to 2 mm. By forming the support structure 715 from multiple distinct thicker and thinner regions, or a combination of incrementally different thicknesses, the load resistance of the support structure 715 may be optimized. Thus, the overall compliance of the interfacing structure 711 at any given point around the periphery of the user's face in use may be derived from the properties of the chassis 721, the support structure 715, and the face-engaging surface 713.

[0264] In some embodiments, it may be advantageous to balance compliance with resilience and stiffness in the interfacing structure 711 to distribute the resistive forces exerted by the interfacing structure 711 when compressed against the user's face during use. Additionally, the interfacing structure 711 distributes the translation distance of the applied compressive pressure (when interacting with the user's face during use) over areas of the user's face that are more susceptible to pressure absorption. Providing this interfacing structure 711 may be advantageous over locally concentrating the load on a minimum number of contact points. Thus, the overall compliance of the disclosed interfacing structure 711 may be shaped to allow the face-engaging surface 713 to conformably mold to the user's face. This may advantageously reduce areas of the face-engaging surface 713 that are spaced apart from or do not sufficiently interact with the user's face, thereby helping to distribute the pressure. 15a, the areas of the user's skull base 601 and sphenoid bone 603 below the temples may withstand higher levels of pressure, while areas on either side of the user's zygomatic arch 607 may withstand lower levels of pressure. Additionally, it may be preferable for some areas to experience only relatively low or substantially zero pressure (e.g., the zygomatic arch 607 itself or areas over the user's nose bridge 617). In areas that can only support low or substantially zero pressure, it may be advantageous for the face-engaging surface 713 to be highly compliant to provide a gentler interaction, thereby reducing or avoiding undesired light ingress.

[0265] In some further embodiments, the interfacing structure 811 may include a separate chassis 821, support structure 815, and face-engaging surface 813 (see, e.g., FIGS. 20a-20d). For example, the face-engaging surface 813′ may be formed as a foam cushion 829′ attached directly to an upper portion 827 of the support structure 815 (see, e.g., FIG. 21a). The upper portion 827 of the support structure 815 may be formed to extend inwardly from the periphery of the wall of the support structure 815 as a spring-like ledge that functions to support the face-engaging surface 813′ against buckling during use.

[0266] In some alternative embodiments, the face-engaging surface 813" covers a foam cushion 829" that is attached directly to the top 827 of the support structure 815 (see, e.g., FIG. 21b) such that the foam cushion 829" underlies the face-engaging surface 813". For example, the face-engaging surface 813" of a silicone or fabric material may be loosely supported above or at least partially bonded to the foam cushion 829". In another form, the face-engaging surface 813" may extend at least partially beyond the foam cushion 829". The foam cushion 829" may function as a spring-like, compliant and slightly resilient cushion support and is concealed beneath the face-engaging surface 813". In such embodiments, the material that contacts the user's face may be easier to clean than foam, which may lead to improved hygiene of the interfacing structure 811.

[0267] The foam cushion (e.g., foam cushion 829′, foam cushion 829″) may be composed of, for example, any suitable material (e.g., one or more of polyethylene, PU, ​​EVA). In some cases, the foam cushion may be a semi-closed cell foam (e.g., made from polyurethane). A semi-open cell foam cushion may have limited permeability (e.g., a permeability characteristic in the range of about 0-20 liters / minute). A cross section through the foam cushion may be substantially triangular or pear-shaped, with a sealing surface that conforms to the contours of the user's face. The foam used may define the overall physical properties of the interfacing structure 811. The foam allows the interfacing structure 811 to accommodate major variations and to better conform to the contours of the user's face. The compliant nature of the foam cushion may also allow for fine adjustments, thereby creating a comfortable interfacing layer when interacting with the user's skin.

[0268] In another example of the present technology, the foam cushion 829'' may be secured (removably or permanently) to the support structure 815, or in some further embodiments, may be attached directly to the chassis 821. The foam cushion 829'' may be configured to have different stiffness in different regions along it for improved user comfort.

[0269] In certain forms of the present technology, the face-engaging surface of the interfacing structure may include a cushion formed from a semi-compressible material (e.g., high-density foam (e.g., polyurethane foam or viscoelastic foam)) or other similar material (e.g., rubber), which may be formed to be generally resiliently compressible and simultaneously have some resistance to said compression. The resulting semi-rigid and resiliently compressible cushion may be further formed to maintain a relatively small radius of curvature, resulting in a "one size fits most" user interface cushion.

[0270] In some forms of the present technology, the interfacing structure may be adjustably sized over a range of widths and / or shapes, thereby customizable to the anthropomorphic features of a user's face. For example, with reference to FIG. 22 , the interfacing structure 911 may include two adjustable face-engaging surfaces 913′, one on each of the left-hand and right-hand sides of the interfacing structure 911. The adjustable face-engaging surfaces 913′ may be slidably movable relative to one another and relative to the substantially rigid chassis 920. When the adjustable face-engaging surfaces 913′ are slidably moved away from one another, the overall width W of the interfacing structure 911 may increase. When the adjustable face-engaging surfaces 913′ are slidably moved toward one another, the overall width W of the interfacing structure 911 may decrease. In some embodiments, the interfacing structure 911 may further include two static face engaging surfaces 913", one of which spans the user's nose region and one of which spans the user's forehead region. Each of the two static face engaging surfaces 913" may be formed to have a sufficient length so that a distal end 914" of each of the two static face engaging surfaces 913" overlaps a distal end 914' of the adjustable face engaging surface 913'. In this manner, cooperation of the adjustable and static face engaging surfaces 913' and 913" may form a functionally continuous interfacing structure 911 around the user's eyes. The resulting interfacing structure 911 may improve fit to the user's individual facial anthropomorphism, which may advantageously improve the ability of the interfacing structure 911 to increase the translation distance of the clamping pressure applied to the user's face when the positioning and stabilizing structure is tightened. This may also improve the comfort of the interfacing structure 911 and reduce the occurrence of localized pressure points. In some further embodiments, the shape and length of the static face-engaging surface 913″ may be formed in a shape and length that also blocks the ingress of unwanted light from inside the display unit housing 922.In some further embodiments, the shape and length of the static face engaging surface 913″ may be formed such that an air gap is formed between the static face engaging surface 913″ and the adjustable face engaging surface 913′. This may advantageously lead to improved breathability and comfort of the head mounted display system 910.

[0271] In some embodiments, the adjustable face-engaging surface 913′ can move relative to the chassis 920 or the display unit housing 922 with a corresponding adjustment of the relative position of the eyepieces 923 within the display unit housing 922. For example, with reference to FIGS. 23 a and 23 b, the relative position of axes DD and EE through the eyepieces 923 of the display unit housing 922 can be adjustable. In some embodiments, this adjustment can be made by movement of a slidable tab that projects outward from the display unit housing 922. Because the spacing between a user's eyes can be proportional to the width of the user's head, adjustment of the relative position of the eyepieces 923 can also provide appropriate adjustment of the width of the interfacing structure 911. For example, the relative positions of axes DD and EE through the eyepiece 923 can be moved from a wider width XX (FIG. 23a) to a narrower width YY (FIG. 23b), thereby decreasing the overall width of the face-engaging surface 913′ by a proportionally corresponding distance from the wider width XX′ (FIG. 23a) to the narrower width YY′ (FIG. 23b). Similarly, the eyepiece 923 can be moved from a narrower width YY (FIG. 23b) to a wider width XX (FIG. 23a), thereby increasing the overall width of the face-engaging surface 913′ by a proportionally corresponding distance from the narrower width YY′ (FIG. 23b) to the wider width XX′ (FIG. 23a). In some embodiments, movement of the relative positions of axes DD and EE through the eyepiece can also adjustably move the face-engaging surface around nose ledge 931. For example, the nose ledge 931 may be adjustably narrowed when the interfacing structure 911 is moved to a narrower configuration (e.g., FIG. 23b) and positioned in the space between the eyepieces within the display unit housing 922, or may be adjustably pulled wider and removed from the space between the eyepieces within the display unit housing 922 when the interfacing structure 911 is moved to a wider configuration (e.g., FIG. 23a).

[0272] In some alternative embodiments, the adjustable face-engaging surface may be moved relative to the chassis by a uniquely configured adjustment mechanism (eg, a slidable tab or a rack-and-pinion type adjustment mechanism).

[0273] The sides of the nose near the frontal process of the maxilla, including the superior nasal bone, and the lateral nasal cartilages can vary significantly depending on the user's profile. Additionally, the bridge of the nose may be particularly sensitive to the application of force from above from the interfacing structure. Furthermore, it may be important to avoid obstructing the user's airway during use. Thus, the interfacing structure may be shaped to avoid compressive pressure on the nasal region. Referring to FIGS. 15a and 15b, the chassis 621 includes a nasal ledge 631. The nasal ledge 631 effectively leaves a gap within the normally substantially continuous face-engaging surface 613. The nasal ledge 631 may be shaped to be substantially wider and deeper than the user's nose to avoid one or more of the potential problems described above. In some further embodiments, the nasal ledge 631 may be generally saddle-shaped. The nasal ledge 631 may be formed as a continuation of the facial-engaging surface 613, or in some embodiments, the nasal ledge 631 may be formed as a separate part of the facial-engaging surface 613. In embodiments in which the nasal ledge 631 is a separate part, the nasal ledge 631 may be formed to be removable, which may advantageously improve the ease of cleaning the nasal ledge 631. Exemplary nasal ledges 731 and 831 are also illustrated in Figures 16a-16c and 20a-20d.

[0274] For example, in some embodiments, the face-engaging surface 1013 of the nose ledge 1031 on the chassis 1021 may be formed from a flexible material that can easily resiliently bend inward (as can the flap 1033) to accommodate the user's nose (see, e.g., FIG. 24). The flap 1033 may be positioned on the side of the bridge of the user's nose during use. In some embodiments, the face-engaging surface 613 of the nose ledge 631 may be formed as a loose hood material, allowing the user's nose to enter (without any substantial added resistance). Alternatively, in some embodiments, the face-engaging surface 613 of the nose ledge 631 may be formed from a section of highly stretchable, compressible material (e.g., one or more of a fabric or a foam).

[0275] Generally, the interfacing structure according to the present technology can be constructed from one or more materials (e.g., silicone, woven material, or foam). For example, in certain forms of the present technology, the interfacing structure can include a layer of viscoelastic polyurethane foam. In a further example, in certain forms of the present technology, the interfacing structure can include a layer of liquid silicone rubber (LSR) overmolded onto a polycarbonate or nylon chassis.

[0276] In certain forms of the present technology, the interfacing structure may be advantageously constructed from a biocompatible material (eg, silicone rubber).

[0277] In some forms of the present technology, one or more portions of the interfacing structure may be formed to be substantially opaque. In some further forms of the present technology, one or more portions of the interfacing structure may be a "matt black" color. This may be advantageous because it avoids unwanted light from entering through the interfacing structure itself.

[0278] It should be understood that material selection can affect the compressibility, compliance, and / or resilience properties of the interfacing structure. For example, different foams having different densities will have correspondingly different compressibility properties. Additionally, different silicone materials having different thicknesses or flexibilities will have different compressibility properties.

[0279] In certain forms of the present technology, the interfacing structure may be constructed from a biocompatible material (e.g., silicone rubber). In some further forms, the face-engaging surface of the interfacing structure may be removable. For example, the face-engaging surface may be a removable, single-use cover or a washable cover.

[0280] The interfacing structure may have advantages in one or more aspects of the present technology. For example, in addition to the advantages noted above, human facial structure may vary from person to person, presenting challenges in designing a face-engaging surface that can accommodate use with numerous facial variations. These differences include different shapes of facial structure (e.g., differently shaped noses and / or differently curved cheeks) and / or different tissue content (e.g., more or less adipose tissue). Due to these differences, an interfacing structure may work well for one person but not for another. Additionally, perceived comfort may vary from person to person, independent of facial structure.

[0281] In some forms of the present technology, the interfacing structure may further include one or more forehead interfacing structures. The forehead interfacing structures may be adapted to engage with the user's forehead above the display unit housing. The forehead interfacing structures may be integrated with the positioning and stabilizing structure or as a stand-alone region of the interfacing structure.

[0282] (Medical use) Because components of the positioning and stabilizing structure and interfacing structure may come into contact with, for example, the skin of a user during use, the positioning and stabilizing structure and / or interfacing structure may be adapted to include biocompatible materials. The purpose of designing the positioning and stabilizing structure and interfacing structure to include such materials is to protect the user from potential biological risks resulting from use of the structure.

[0283] 5.1.2.1 Material Biocompatibility A biocompatible material is considered to be one that has undergone a detailed evaluation of the biological response of the material in accordance with ISO 10993-1 standard that is relevant to its safety in use. The evaluation considers the nature and length of expected contact with human tissue in use. In some forms of the technology, materials used in the positioning and stabilizing structures and interfacing structures may undergo at least some of the following biocompatibility tests: Cytotoxicity - Elution test (MeM extract): ANSI / AAMI / ISO10993-5 Skin sensitization: ISO10993-10 Inflammation: ISO10993-10 Genotoxicity - Bacterial Mutagenicity Test: ISO10993-3 Porting: ISO10993-6

[0284] (5.1.2.2 Cleaning) In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structures and interfacing structures are designed for use by a single user, for cleaning by the user at home (e.g., with soap and water), and do not require specialized equipment for disinfection and sterilization.

[0285] In some other embodiments, the positioning and stabilizing structure and interfacing structure components are used in laboratories, clinics, and hospitals, where a single head mounted display system may be reused for multiple people or used during medical procedures. In laboratories, clinics, and hospitals, respectively, the head mounted display system or its associated components may be reprocessed and exposed to, for example, thermal disinfection, chemical disinfection, and sterilization processes. Therefore, the design of the positioning and stabilizing structure and interfacing structure may be validated in accordance with ISO 17664 for disinfection and sterilization of the structure.

[0286] Materials can be selected to withstand reprocessing. For example, robust materials can be used in the positioning and stabilizing structure to withstand exposure to high levels of disinfectant and agitation by a brush. Additionally, some components of the positioning and stabilizing structure can be separable and disconnected during use to improve the effectiveness of reprocessing.

[0287] In a further example, the contacts of the forehead support connector 24 may come into contact with the user's head during use and may therefore become contaminated. The contacts may be designed to be detached from the forehead support connector 24 to allow the contacts to be removed for cleaning and / or replacement. When cleaning the contacts, it is desirable to prevent the positioning and stabilizing structures from getting wet. This may be facilitated by making these components detachable for such purposes. In a further example, the posterior support hoop may come into contact with the user's hair or skin during wear. Thus, the material comprising the posterior support hoop is preferably designed to be easy to clean and to allow the positioning and stabilizing structures to be removed for separate cleaning.

[0288] (5.1.3 Materials) The surfaces of the interfacing structures or positioning and stabilizing structures that engage and interact with the user's head may be formed with shapes and material properties that assist in reducing marks and / or hot spots caused by point loads and pressure on the user's head. With reference to FIG. 30 , in some forms, the resulting interfacing surfaces 1110 of the engaging structures 1108 can distribute the pressure load P over a larger surface area of ​​the user's head 1120. Thus, the shape and material properties of the engaging structures 1108 (particularly the interfacing surfaces 1110) may improve user comfort.

[0289] Similarly, in some forms, the geometry of the edge of the interfacing surface (along with the overall shape and material properties of the interfacing surface) may be shaped to help match the contours of the user's head, thereby distributing pressure loads more efficiently and thereby improving user comfort. For example, the interfacing surface 1110 may have contoured edges 1112, which help distribute contact loads over a larger surface area, thereby reducing the likelihood of marks and / or hot spots due to point loads forming pressure on the user's head (e.g., FIGS. 30 and 31).

[0290] In general, an increase in surface area may correlate with reduced pressure and discomfort experienced by the user, as forces can be distributed over a larger contact area. However, the total surface area of ​​the interfacing surface must be optimized in tradeoff with the overall size, bulk, and weight of the interfacing structure (which may adversely affect user comfort when wearing the head-mounted display). For example, if the interfacing surface is too large, the user may experience claustrophobia or muscle pain in the neck and shoulders due to the increased weight.

[0291] Additionally, in some forms, it may be important for the interfacing surface to be comfortable to the user based on the overall appearance and feel of the outer surface (either to the touch or when worn in use). For example, reducing sharp edges (even at points of contact with the user) may advantageously improve the user's perceived comfort. In further examples, it may be advantageous for the material forming the outer surface of the interfacing surface to be a non-itchy material, a cool material, or a material that can wick moisture (e.g., sweat), or a material that does not cause irritation to the user's skin and / or is breathable.

[0292] Thus, the material properties of the interfacing structure or the interfacing surface of the positioning and stabilizing structure can affect the overall comfort of the user.

[0293] For example, in some forms, it may be advantageous for the engagement structure 1108 (e.g., straps of the positioning and stabilizing structure) to be able to flexibly twist (T) to conform to the contours of the user's head (e.g., FIG. 31). Allowing the interfacing surface to be compliant and conform to the user's head can lead to an increase in the overall contact surface area, which helps distribute the clamping force over a larger contact area and reduces uncomfortable compression points.

[0294] In other forms, the engaging structure may comprise a compliant material (e.g., a foam or woven material), which, as opposed to a thermoplastic material, allows the interfacing surface to more easily conform and form around the curves and contours of the user's head. For example, such material properties may be advantageous in the portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1114 that extends around the top of the user's head 1122 (e.g., FIG. 32). Because the portion 1116 of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1114 is not sufficiently curved when not in use, it may engage the top of the user's head 1122 and resiliently flex (without damaging the positioning and stabilizing structure 1114) to accommodate and assist in the distribution of pressure loads across the user's head.

[0295] In some forms, the engagement structures may have elastic resilience, which may result in more even force distribution across the interfacing surface. For example, referring to FIG. 33, when the straps of the positioning and stabilizing structures 1134 are stretched apart under load L, the strain force is distributed substantially evenly along the length of the straps. As a result, the elasticity of the straps indicates that the force does not change upon stretching (or displacement) of the engagement structures, as they have a relatively flat force (y-axis)-displacement (x-axis) profile.

[0296] In some other forms, distinct regions, segments, or portions of the interfacing structure or positioning and stabilizing structure may be formed to exhibit increased compliance (when compared to the remainder of the positioning and stabilizing structure). For example, with reference to FIG. 34, regions 1144 of interfacing structure 1142 positioned adjacent more sensitive areas of the user's face (e.g., the bridge of the nose) or adjacent facial prominences 1140 (e.g., the cheekbones) may comprise viscoelastic foam or similar material (which may enable increased local compliance).

[0297] In some embodiments, the foam used in the interfacing structure or positioning and stabilizing structure has a density of approximately 55 kg / m 3 In another embodiment, the density is approximately 50 to 55 kg / m 3 In another embodiment, the density of the foam may be in the range of approximately 55 to 60 kg / m 3 In another embodiment, the density of the foam may be in the range of approximately 45 to 65 kg / m 3 The density can be in the range of 0.01 to 0.01. The density can be higher or lower depending on the specific requirements of the foam. For example, the foam density can be varied across the interfacing structure or positioning and stabilizing structure to have localized areas of greater compliance or stiffness.

[0298] (5.1.4 Anthropometric Data Model) The geometry of a head-mounted display system can be designed with reference to an anthropometric data model. The anthropometric data model can be developed from a collection of three-dimensional head shapes. The anthropometric data model can be used to indicate: sizing and clustering based on head shape variation (e.g., a target head geometry is shown in FIG. 25b with the top three components of variation) as shown in FIGS. 25a-25b; sizing based on nominated face zones (e.g., shape variation in the eye / nose region is shown in the example of FIG. 26b with the top four components of variation) as shown in FIGS. 26a-26b; and sizing based on anthropometric landmarks (e.g., correlation between 2D landmarks (e.g., the relationship between eye location and face width at the eye sockets) as shown in FIG. 27a-27b).

[0299] For example, an anthropometric data model may be used to determine sizing requirements for an interfacing structure. These requirements may take into account variations in head shape and variations in facial features based on anthropometric landmarks. Furthermore, relationships between facial landmarks may be derived from the data (e.g., the relationship between eye location and facial width). Advantageously, the interfacing structure may be configured to accommodate these variations.

[0300] In a further example, the anthropometric data model may be used in conjunction with a software application (e.g., a mobile phone application) to compare a three-dimensional scan of a user's head and determine the user's head size. In this example, the user may operate their mobile phone camera to generate a three-dimensional scan. The software application may inform the user of the user's head size compared to the anthropometric data model and recommend an appropriate size (e.g., positioning and stabilization structure size) to provide an optimal fit. For example, a medium size may be suggested from a given set of size options (e.g., small-medium or large). Alternatively, custom-sized positioning and stabilization structures may be created based on the three-dimensional scan according to the user's individual facial landmarks.

[0301] The head mounted display systems described above are alternative examples of this technology that are constructed and arranged to enhance comfort, fit range, ease of use, system architecture, usability in medical environments, and manufacturability.

[0302] Head-mounted display systems according to embodiments of the present technology enhance comfort by minimizing facial markings and pain caused by prolonged use. For example, comfort can be achieved by providing global load distribution that optimizes load across all contact surfaces by avoiding or minimizing load on areas prone to discomfort and redistributing that load to areas that are more comfortable, such as avoiding or minimizing load on the bridge and sides of the nose and applying or redistributing that load to the top and / or back of the head. Comfort can also be achieved by providing localized load distribution that distributes load evenly through design and material selection in areas of the face where contact is unavoidable; for example, contact points around the eyes can be provided with compliant materials that distribute load evenly and avoid pain points / facial markings. Additionally, comfort can be achieved by minimizing weight, since a lower overall system weight requires less tension to position and maintain the system in the correct configuration. In this regard, head mounted display systems according to embodiments of the present technology provide components that are optimized to minimize component size and number to achieve fit range, comfort, and minimal design (e.g., low profile) to achieve correct configuration, e.g., function and use of robust and lightweight materials.

[0303] A head-mounted display system according to an embodiment of the present technology enhances fit range or overall fit without sacrificing comfort, ease of use, and cost. Fit range can be achieved by providing adjustability, for example, through geometry and material selection and adjustment mechanisms. Components of the positioning and stabilizing structure can be designed, and materials selected, to provide a desired force-to-displacement ratio; for example, a strap may stretch to a desired length under a predetermined force. Adjustment mechanisms offer simplicity, such as manually adjusting and setting the size of the positioning and stabilizing structure and associated straps, and minimizing the size of components while maximizing ease of use, such as one-handed strap adjustment or alternative use of magnetic clips for connection (e.g., easy removal without disturbing the strap installation). Additionally, adjustment mechanisms provide minimal size and weight with optimal materials and minimal components, reducing the bulk of the adjustment mechanism. Furthermore, an expanded fit range can be achieved through anthropometry, which can be designed to fit the optimal anthropometry range for a desired market.

[0304] A head-mounted display system according to an embodiment of the present technology enhances usability with hassle-free, simple setup solutions and solutions with low dexterity thresholds. For example, hassle-free setup can be achieved with self-adjusting solutions including stretchable materials or simple mechanical actuation that requires only a few fine adjustments to achieve a precise fit. The system can also include adjustment and locking solutions for enhanced usability (i.e., set-and-forget), such as mechanisms for guiding adjustments (e.g., magnets) and locking mechanisms for setting the adjustments (e.g., clips). Furthermore, the system provides ease of use by allowing adjustments when worn by users with limited dexterity and / or minimal vision.

[0305] A head-mounted display system according to an embodiment of the present technology provides an enhanced system architecture that optimizes component location to maximize comfort, fit range, and ease of use while minimizing cost. For example, the system may provide excellent weight distribution, with electrical and / or mechanical components ideally positioned for comfort. The system may also provide modularity to allow components to be selected or upgraded based on user preference, such as preference-based selection of electrical components, face-contacting cushions, straps, and / or earphones.

[0306] Head mounted display systems according to embodiments of the present technology may be more suitable for use in medical environments, for example, the systems may be cleanable for reuse in medical environments and / or may be biocompatible with and / or cleanable with select materials that meet biocompatibility requirements.

[0307] A head mounted display system according to embodiments of the present technology enhances manufacturability by providing a low cost, mass producible solution while maintaining high quality and functionality.

[0308] As noted above, the present technology finds particular application in head-mounted display systems in the form of virtual reality (VR) and / or augmented reality (AR) display devices.

[0309] 35 , an exemplary VR display device 3000 according to one aspect of the present technology includes the following functional aspects: a display unit 3100, a display housing 3200, and a positioning and stabilizing structure 3500. In some forms, a functional aspect 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 unit 3100 is positioned so as to be close to and in front of the user's eyes so that the user can view the display unit 3100.

[0310] In some examples, the display unit 3100 may include a display screen 3104, a display housing 3200, an interfacing structure 3300, and / or an optical lens 3400. These components may be integrally formed within a single display unit 3100, or may be separable and selectively connected by a user to form the display unit 3100. Furthermore, the display screen 3104, the display housing 3200, the interfacing structure 3300, and / or the optical lens 3400 may be provided within the display device 3000 but may not be part of the display unit 3100.

[0311] In examples, the viewing screen or display 3104 may be configured to selectively output computer-generated images viewable by a user in an operating position. In some forms, the viewing screen 3104 is an electronic display. The viewing screen 3104 may be a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a light-emitting diode (LED) display.

[0312] In some forms, the display housing 3200 may provide structural support for the display screen 3104 (to maintain at least some of the components of the display screen 3104 in position relative to one another) and may further protect the display screen 3104 and / or other components of the display unit 3100. The display housing 3200 may be constructed from a material suitable for providing protection from impact forces to the display screen 3104. The display housing 3200 may also come into contact with the user's face and may be constructed from a biocompatible material suitable for limiting irritation to the user.

[0313] In some forms, the interfacing structure 3300 may extend at least partially around the periphery of the display housing 3200 and form a viewing opening that may at least partially receive a user's face during use. In particular, the user's eyes may be received within the viewing opening formed by the interfacing structure 3300.

[0314] In some forms, the display device 3000 may include a light shield, which may be constructed from an opaque material and may block ambient light from reaching the user's eyes. The light shield may be part of the interfacing structure 3300 or may be a separate element.

[0315] In examples, at least one lens 3400 may be positioned between the user's eyes and the display screen 3104. The user may view images provided by the display screen 3104 through the lens 3400. The at least one lens 3400 may assist in spacing the display screen 3104 away from the user's face, thereby limiting eye strain. The at least one lens 3400 may also assist in improving viewing of images displayed by the display screen 3104. In some forms, the at least one lens includes a first lens configured to be aligned with the user's left eye in the operating position and a second lens configured to be aligned with the user's right eye in the operating position. In some forms, the lens 3400 is a Fresnel lens. In some forms, the display includes a binocular display segmented into a first portion and a second portion, the first portion aligned with the first lens and the second portion aligned with the second lens.

[0316] In an example, the display device 3000 includes a control system 7000 (see FIG. 36) that helps control the output received by a user. In particular, the control system 7000 may control the visual output from the display screen 3104.

[0317] In some forms, the control system 7000 may include a sensor 7002. The sensor 7002 monitors different parameters or values ​​(e.g., in the physical environment) and communicates the measured parameters to the processor 7004. The output received by the user may be affected by the measured parameters. For example, the processor 7004 may be configured to modify a computer-generated image output from a display based on the measurements.

[0318] In some forms, the sensor 7002 may include an orientation sensor that may sense the orientation of the user's body, at least one camera that may be positioned to view the user's physical environment (e.g., for determining orientation), and / or an eye sensor that tracks the user's eye movements to determine the direction in which at least one eye of the user is looking.

[0319] In some forms, the processor 7004 may include a computer or a smartphone.

[0320] In some forms, the control system 7000 is integrated with the display unit 3100. In other forms, the control system 7000 is housed within a control system support 7060. The control system support 7060 is separate from but connected (e.g., electrically connected) to the display unit 3100.

[0321] In some forms, the display device 3000 includes a controller 3600. The controller 3600 may be used by a user to provide user input to the virtual environment and / or control the operation of the display device 3000. The controller 3600 may be connected to the display unit 3100 and may provide the user with the ability to interact with virtual objects output from the display unit 3100 to the user. For example, the controller 3600 may have at least one button 3602 (see FIG. 35 ) that can be selectively used by a user's finger, the controller 3600 being in communication with the processor 7004 and configured to send a signal to the processor when the at least one button 3602 is engaged. The processor is configured to modify a computer-generated image output from the display 3104 based on the signal.

[0322] 37 shows an exemplary AR display device 3000 according to one aspect of the present technology. The AR display device 3000 includes the following functional aspects: a display unit 3100, a display housing 3200, and a positioning and stabilizing structure 3500.

[0323] In some examples, the display unit 3100 may include a display screen or display 3104 supported by the display housing 3200. The display screen 3104 is configured to selectively output one or more computer-generated images that can be viewed by a user. The display screen 3104 may include at least one optical lens 3400 constructed from a transparent or translucent material configured to allow the user to observe their physical environment (while observing the computer-generated images). For example, the display screen 3104 may be glass that allows the user to see through the display screen 3104. This may be particularly useful in AR applications, allowing the user to continuously view their physical environment.

[0324] In some forms, the at least one lens 3400 includes a first lens configured to be aligned with the user's left eye in the operating position and a second lens configured to be aligned with the user's right eye in the operating position (see, e.g., FIG. 37).

[0325] In an example, the AR display device 3000 includes a control system 7000 (see FIG. 36 ) that helps control the output received by the user. In particular, the control system 7000 may control the visual output from the display screen 3104. In some forms, the control system 7000 may include a sensor 7002. The sensor 7002 monitors different parameters or values ​​(e.g., in the physical environment) and communicates the measured parameters to the processor 7004. The output received by the user may be affected by the measured parameters. For example, the processor 7004 is configured to modify a computer-generated image output from the display based on the measurements.

[0326] (5.2 Glossary) For purposes of this disclosure, in certain aspects of the technology, one or more of the following definitions may apply. In other aspects of the technology, other definitions may apply.

[0327] (5.2.1 General) Leakage: The term "leakage" is taken as unintentional exposure to light. In one embodiment, leakage may occur due to an imperfect seal between the display unit and the user's face.

[0328] (5.2.2 Materials) Closed-cell foam: Foam containing completely enclosed cells (i.e., closed cell).

[0329] Elastane: A polymer made from polyurethane.

[0330] Elastomer: A polymer that exhibits elastic properties, for example, silicone elastomers.

[0331] Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA): A copolymer of ethylene and vinyl acetate.

[0332] Foam: Any material (e.g., polyurethane foam or viscoelastic foam) that has gas cells introduced during manufacture to produce a lightweight, multi-cellular form.

[0333] Neoprene: A synthetic rubber produced by the polymerization of chloroprene. Neoprene is used in the following trademarked products: Breath-O-Prene.

[0334] Nylon: A synthetic polyamide with elastic properties that can be used to form fibers / filaments used, for example, in textiles.

[0335] Open-cell foam: A foam (i.e., open-cell) that contains gas bubbles (i.e., gas bubbles that are not completely enclosed).

[0336] Polycarbonate: A transparent thermoplastic polymer, typically of bisphenol A carbonate.

[0337] Polyethylene: A thermoplastic that is resistant to chemicals and moisture.

[0338] Polyurethane (PU): A plastic material formed by copolymerization of isocyanate and polyhydric alcohol, which can take the form of, for example, foam (polyurethane foam) and rubber (polyurethane rubber).

[0339] Semi-open foam: A foam containing a combination of closed and open (enclosed) cells.

[0340] Silicone or silicone elastomer: Synthetic rubber. References to silicone herein refer to liquid silicone rubber (LSR) or compression molded silicone rubber (CMSR). One commercially available form of LSR is SILASTIC (in a family of products sold under this registered trademark) manufactured by Dow Corning. Another LSR manufacturer is Wacker. Unless otherwise specified, exemplary forms of LSR have a Shore A (or Type A) indentation hardness of about 35 to about 45, as measured by ASTM D2240.

[0341] Spacer Fabric: A composite structure comprising two outer woven substrates bonded together and held in space by an intermediate layer of monofilament.

[0342] Spandex: An elastic fiber or fabric primarily composed of polyurethane. Spandex is used in the following trademarked products: Lycra.

[0343] Thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs): These are generally low modulus, flexible materials that are stretchable at room temperature and can return to approximately their original length when stress is released. Examples of trademarked products using TPEs include: Hytrel®, Dynaflex®, and Medalist® MD-1 15.

[0344] Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU): A highly durable and flexible thermoplastic elastomer.

[0345] (5.2.3 Mechanical properties) Elasticity: The ability of a material to absorb energy during elastic deformation and to release the energy when unloaded.

[0346] Elastic: Releases substantially all of the energy upon unloading. Examples include certain silicone and thermoplastic elastomers.

[0347] Hardness: The ability of a material to resist deformation (e.g., as described by Young's modulus or the indentation hardness scale measured on a standardized sample size). - "Soft" materials may include silicone or thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) and may easily deform under finger pressure, for example. - "Hard" materials may include polycarbonate, polypropylene, steel or aluminum, and are not easily deformable under finger pressure, for example.

[0348] Stiffness (or rigidity) of a structure or component: The ability of a structure or component to resist deformation when subjected to a load. The load can be a force or a moment (e.g., compression, extension, bending, or torsion). A structure or component may offer different resistance in different directions.

[0349] Floppy structure or component: A structure or component that changes shape (e.g., flexes) within a relatively short period of time (e.g., 1 second) when forced to support its own weight.

[0350] Rigid Structure or Component: A structure or component that does not substantially change shape when subjected to loads typically encountered in use. As one example, an I-beam may have a different bending stiffness (resistance to bending load) in a first direction compared to a second, orthogonal direction. In another example, a structure or component may be floppy in a first direction and rigid in a second direction.

[0351] (5.2.4 User Interface) Frame: Frame is taken to mean a display housing unit that supports a tensile load between two or more points connecting the hoops.

[0352] Interpupillary distance: The distance between the centers of the pupils of the eyes.

[0353] Hoop: Hoop refers to a portion of a positioning and stabilizing structure designed for use on the head. For example, the hoop may include a collection of one or more struts, ties, and stiffeners configured to position and hold the user interface in place on the user's face (to hold the display unit in an operative position in front of the user's face). The hoop may be formed of a soft, flexible, elastic material (e.g., a layered composite of foam and fabric / textile).

[0354] Membrane: Membrane is taken to mean a typically thin-walled element, preferably substantially non-resistant to bending and resistant to stretching.

[0355] Seal: When used as a noun ("seal"), it can refer to a structure, and when used as a verb ("to seal"), it can refer to an effect. Two elements can be constructed and / or arranged to "seal" or achieve a "sealing" effect between them without the need for a separate "sealing" element itself.

[0356] Shell: A shell is taken to mean a curved, relatively thin structure that has bending, tensile, and compressive stiffness. For example, the curved structural wall of a display unit housing may be a shell. In some forms, the shell may be faceted.

[0357] Stiffener: A stiffener is taken to mean a structural component designed to increase the bending resistance of another component in at least one direction.

[0358] Strut: A strut is taken to mean a structural component designed to increase the compressive resistance of another component in at least one direction.

[0359] Swivel (noun): A subassembly of components configured to rotate, preferably independently, about a common axis, preferably under low torque. In one form, a swivel may be configured to rotate through an angle of at least 360 degrees. In another form, a swivel may be configured to rotate through an angle less than 360 degrees.

[0360] Tie (noun): A structure designed to resist tension.

[0361] (5.2.5 Shape of Structure) Products of the present technology may include one or more three-dimensional mechanical structures (e.g., seal-forming portions of a display unit). The three-dimensional structures may be bounded by two-dimensional surfaces. These surfaces may be distinguished using labels to describe the orientation, location, function, or some other characteristic of the associated surfaces. For example, the structure may include one or more of a front surface, a back surface, an interior surface, and an exterior surface. In another example, the seal-forming structure may include a face-contacting (e.g., outer) surface and a separate non-face-contacting (e.g., lower or interior) surface. In another example, the structure may include a first surface and a second surface.

[0362] To facilitate the description of the shape and surface of a three-dimensional structure, we first consider a cross section at a point P through the surface of the structure. Figures 2a-2e show an example cross section at a point P on the surface and an example of the resulting planar curve. The outward normal vector at P points away from the surface. In some examples, the surface is described from the perspective of a fictitious little person standing upright on the surface.

[0363] (5.2.5.1 Curvature in one dimension) The curvature of a plane curve at P can be described as having a sign (e.g., positive, negative) and a magnitude (e.g., 1 / radius of the circle tangent to the curve at P).

[0364] Positive curvature: If the curve at P bends towards the outward normal, the curvature at that point is taken to have a positive value (if our hypothetical little person were to walk away from P, they would have to walk uphill). See Figure 2a (relatively large positive curvature compared to Figure 2b) and Figure 2b (relatively small positive curvature compared to Figure 2a). Such curves are often called concave.

[0365] Zero curvature: If the curve at P is a straight line, the curvature is taken as zero (if this imaginary little person walks away from P, they can walk on a horizontal plane that is neither pointing up nor pointing down). See Figure 2c.

[0366] Negative curvature: If the curve at P bends away from the outward normal, the curvature at that point and in that direction is taken to have a negative value (if our fictitious little person were to walk away from point p, they would have to walk downhill). See Figure 2d (relatively small negative curvature compared to Figure 2e) and Figure 2e (relatively large negative curvature compared to Figure 2d). Such curves are often called convex.

[0367] (5.2.5.2 Curvature of two-dimensional surfaces) A description of a shape at a given point on a two-dimensional surface according to the present technology may include multiple perpendicular cross sections. The multiple cross sections may cut the surface in a plane containing the outward normal (the "normal plane"), and each cross section may be taken in a different direction. Each cross section results in a plane curve with a corresponding curvature. The different curvatures at the point may have the same or different signs. Each curvature at the point has a (e.g., relatively small) magnitude. The plane curves in Figures 2a-2e may be examples of such multiple cross sections at a particular point.

[0368] Principal curvatures and directions: The directions in the normal planes where the curvature of a curve has its maximum and minimum values ​​are called principal directions. In the example of Figures 2a-2e, the maximum curvature occurs in Figure 2a and the minimum occurs in Figure 2e, so Figures 2a and 2e are cross sections in the principal directions. The principal curvature at P is the curvature in the principal direction.

[0369] Surface region: A set of connected points on a surface. This set of points within a region may have similar properties (e.g., curvature or sign).

[0370] Saddle-shaped region: A region where the principal curvatures at each point have opposite signs (i.e., one positive sign and the other negative sign) (depending on the direction a hypothetical person who may be walking uphill or downhill faces). A saddle-shaped region is illustrated, for example, in Figure 2h.

[0371] Dome region: A region where the principal curvatures at each point have the same sign: either both positive ("concave dome") or both negative ("convex dome"). A dome region is shown, for example, in Figure 2g.

[0372] Edge of a surface: the boundary or limit of a surface or area. An edge on a surface is shown, for example, in Figure 2g.

[0373] Path: In certain forms of the present technology, a "path" is taken to mean a path in the mathematical-topological sense (e.g., a continuous space curve from f(0) to f(1) on a surface). In certain forms of the present technology, a "path" may be described, for example, as a route or course that includes a set of points on a surface. (A fictional person's path is a place they walk on a surface, similar to a path in a garden.) A path on a surface is illustrated, for example, in Figure 2g.

[0374] (5.2.5.3 Space curve) Space Curve: Unlike a plane curve, a space curve does not necessarily exist in any particular plane. A space curve can be considered a one-dimensional piece of three-dimensional space. A fictional character walking on a strand of DNA helix walks along a space curve. A typical human left ear contains a left-handed helix (see Figure 2i). A typical human right ear contains a right-handed helix (see Figure 2k). Figure 2j shows a right-handed helix. The edge of a structure (e.g., the edge of a membrane) can trace a space curve. In general, a space curve can be described by the curvature and twist at each point on the space curve. Twist is a measure of the way the curve emanates from the plane. Twist has a sign and a magnitude. The twist at a point on a space curve can be characterized with respect to the tangent, normal, and binormal vectors at that point.

[0375] 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, for example, Figure 2m) or the left-hand rule (Figure 2l).

[0376] Oscillating plane: A plane containing a unit tangent vector and a unit principal normal vector. See Figure 2l and Figure 2m.

[0377] Torsion of a Space Curve: The torsion at a point on a space curve is the magnitude of the rate of change of the binormal unit vector at that point. It measures the degree of deviation of the curve from the tangent plane. A space curve that lies within a plane has zero torsion. If the space curve deviates from the tangent plane by a relatively small amount, the magnitude of torsion of the space curve is relatively small (e.g., a gently sloping spiral path). If the space curve deviates from the tangent plane by a relatively large amount, the magnitude of torsion of the space curve is relatively large (e.g., a steeply sloping spiral path). Referring to Figure 2j, the magnitude of torsion near the top coil of the spiral in Figure 2j is greater than the magnitude of torsion of the bottom coil of the spiral in Figure 2j because T2 > T1.

[0378] Referring to the right-hand rule in Figure 2m, a space curve that bends towards the right-hand binormal can be considered as having a positive right-hand twist (e.g., a right-hand spiral as shown in Figure 2j). A space curve that bends away from the right-hand binormal can be considered as having a negative right-hand twist (e.g., a left-hand spiral).

[0379] Similarly, with reference to the left-hand rule (see Figure 2l), a space curve oriented in a left-handed binormal direction can be viewed as having a positive left-handed twist (e.g., a left-handed spiral), where the positive left-handed direction corresponds to the negative right-handed direction.

[0380] (5.2.5.4 Holes) A surface may have one-dimensional holes (e.g., holes bounded by a planar or space curve). In the case of a thin structure (e.g., a membrane) that contains holes, the structure may be described as having one-dimensional holes. See, for example, how the one-dimensional holes in the surface of the structure shown in Figure 2n are bounded by a planar curve.

[0381] A structure can have a two-dimensional hole (e.g., a hole bounded by a surface). For example, an inflatable tire has a two-dimensional hole bounded by the tire's inner surface. See the two-dimensional hole through the structure shown in Figures 2o and 2p, bounded by a surface as shown.

[0382] (5.3 Other Notes) Unless otherwise clearly indicated from the context and unless a range of values ​​is provided, it is understood that each intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit, between the upper and lower limits of the range, and for any other stated or intervening value in the stated range, is encompassed by the technology. The upper and lower limits of these intervening ranges, independently included in the intervening range, are also encompassed by the technology if they specifically exceed the limits in the stated range. If the stated range includes one or both of these limits, then ranges exceeding either or both of these stated limits are also encompassed by the technology.

[0383] Furthermore, when a value(s) is / are embodied herein as part of the present technology, unless otherwise specified, it is understood that such value(s) may be approximated and may be used to any appropriate significant figures to the extent practical technical practice permits or requires.

[0384] 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 this technology belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of this technology, a limited number of exemplary methods and materials are described herein.

[0385] Although particular materials are described as being suitable for use in the construction of components, obvious alternative materials having similar properties may be substituted. Furthermore, unless stated to the contrary, any and all components described herein are understood to be manufacturable and therefore may be manufactured collectively or separately.

[0386] Please note that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include their plural equivalents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0387] All publications mentioned herein are incorporated by reference to disclose and describe the methods and / or materials that are the subject of these publications. The publications mentioned herein are provided solely for their disclosure prior to the filing date of this application. Nothing herein should be construed as an admission that the present technology does not antedate such publications by virtue of prior patents. Furthermore, the dates of publications mentioned may differ from the actual publication dates, which may require independent confirmation.

[0388] The terms "comprises" and "comprising" should be construed as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive sense, indicating that a described element, component, or step may be present in, utilized with, or combined with other elements, components, or steps not specifically described.

[0389] The headings used in the detailed description are for the convenience of the reader and should not be used to limit the content found in the disclosure or claims as a whole. These headings should not be used in interpreting the scope of the claims or the claim limitations.

[0390] Although the technology herein has been described with reference to specific examples / modes / embodiments, it should be understood that these examples / modes / embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and applications of the technology. In some cases, terms and symbols may indicate specific details unnecessary for the practice of the technology. For example, although the terms "first" and "second" (etc.) are used, unless otherwise specified, these terms are not intended to indicate any order but are used to distinguish between separate elements. Furthermore, although the process steps in the method may be described or illustrated in an order, such order is not required. Those skilled in the art will recognize that such order can be changed and / or aspects thereof can be performed simultaneously or even synchronously.

[0391] Thus, it should be understood that numerous modifications are possible in the exemplary examples / configurations / embodiments and that other arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the present technology. [Explanation of symbols]

[0392] 10 Head-mounted display system 11 User Interfacing Structure 12 Display Unit 14 Positioning and stabilizing structures 15 Outer layer 16 Rear support hoop 17 Inner layer 18 Temporal Connector 20 Trailing edge region 21 Superior border area 22 Display unit housing 24 Forehead Support Connector 25 Forehead support 26 Temporal Arm 27 Forehead contact area 28 forward end 29 Face-contact surface 30 rear end 32 Rigidized object 34 Elastic Components 35 Face-contact surface 36 tabs 38 Parietal area 40 Occipital region 42 Connecting strap 44 eyelets 48 Forehead Support Strap 50 Adjustment mechanism 52 Forehead support hole 54 Tab section 110 Head-mounted display unit system 112 Display Unit 114 Positioning and Stabilizing Structures 116 Rear support hoop 118 Temporal Connector 120 Trailing edge area 121 Superior border area 122 Display unit housing 124 Forehead Support Connector 126 Temporal Arm 138 Parietal region 140 Occipital area 142 Connecting Strap 148 Forehead Support Strap 150 Adjustment mechanism 152 Forehead support hole 154 Tab section 156 Forehead support rigidity 210 Head-Mounted Display System 212 Display Unit 214 Positioning and Stabilizing Structures 216 Rear support hoop 218 Temporal Connector 220 Trailing edge region 222 Display unit housing 238 Parietal region 240 Occipital area 242 Connecting Strap 310 Head-Mounted Display System 312 Display Unit 314 Positioning and Stabilizing Structures 316 Rear support hoop 318 Temporal Connector 322 Display unit housing 324 Forehead Support Connector 326 Temporal Arm 332 Rigidized object 338 Parietal region 340 Occipital area 348 Forehead Support Strap 358 Elongation rigidity 360 Energized Extension Stiffener 362 Intermediate adjustment mechanism 363 holes 364 Temporal adjustment mechanism 368 rear end 410 Head-Mounted Display System 411 Interfacing Structure 413 Facial Interface 414 Positioning and Stabilizing Structures 422 Display unit housing 510 Head-Mounted Display System 512 Display Unit 514 Positioning and Stabilizing Structures 516 Support hoop 518 Connector 520 Trailing edge region 522 Display unit housing 524 Forehead Support Connector 526 Arm 528 Front end 530 Rear end 538 Frontal part 539 plane 540 Occipital area 541 Turning Point 542 Connecting Strap 543 Slots 545 Displacement 549 plane 556 Forehead support rigidity 562 Adjustment mechanism 563 holes 564 connections 566 Guide 568 rear end 603 Sphenoid bone 607 Zygomatic Arch 610 Head-Mounted Display System 611 Interfacing Structure 612 Display Unit 613 Face-Engaging Surface 614 Positioning and Stabilizing Structures 615 Interface Support Structure 617 Prominence 621 chassis 622 Display unit housing 623 Engagement element 631 Nose Ledge 638 Frontal part 640 Occipital area 662 Central support structure 711 Interfacing Structure 713 Face-Engaging Surface 715 Support structure 721 chassis 722 Display Unit Housing 723 Engagement element 725 Support flange 731 Nose Ledge 811 Interfacing Structure 813 Face-Engaging Surface 815 Support structure 821 chassis 827 Upper 831 Nose Ledge 910 Head Mounted Display System 911 Interfacing Structure 920 chassis 922 Display Unit Housing 923 Eyepiece 931 Nose Ledge 1013 Face-engaging surface 1021 chassis 1031 Nose Ledge 1033 Flap 711' Interfacing Structure 713' Face-Engaging Surface 715' Support structure 813' Face-Engaging Surface 829' Foam Cushion 913' face-engaging surface 711'' Interfacing Structure 713'' face-engaging surface 715'' support structure 813'' face-engaging surface 829'' foam cushion 913'' face-engaging surface 1108 Engagement structure 1110 Interfacing Structure 1112 Curved contoured edges 1114 Positioning and stabilizing structures 1116 parts 1120 User Head 1122 User Head 1134 Positioning and stabilizing structures 1140 Facial protrusion 1142 Interfacing Structure 1144 area 3000 display device 3100 Display Unit 3104 Display screen 3200 Display Housing 3400 Optical Lens 3500 Positioning and Stabilizing Structure 3600 Controller 3602 Button 7000 Control System 7002 Sensor 7004 processor

Claims

1. A head-mounted display system, a positioning and stabilising structure constructed and arranged to hold the display unit in an operative position on the user's face in use; an interfacing structure for said display unit constructed and arranged to face a face of a user; the interfacing structure includes a substantially continuous face-engaging surface adapted to contact the user's face around the periphery of the user's eyes; the interfacing structure comprises silicone; the interfacing structure is constructed and arranged to distribute forces applied to the user's face around its periphery; a head-mounted display system, wherein the interfacing structure includes a first compliance in a first region and a second compliance in a second region, the first region and the second region configured around a periphery of the interfacing structure to enable selective distribution of forces onto a user's face.

2. The head mounted display system of claim 1 , wherein the face engaging surface comprises one or more regions of silicone or one or more layers of a woven material or foam.

3. 3. The head mounted display system of claim 2, wherein one or more regions of the face engaging surface may be formed to have different thicknesses and / or different surface finishes, thereby achieving the different compliances along the face engaging surface when compressed against a user's face in use.

4. A head mounted display system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the interfacing structure further comprises a support structure for supporting the face engaging surface in position, and a rigid chassis.

5. 5. The head mounted display system of claim 4, wherein the support structure includes one or more distinct regions having different thicknesses and / or reinforcing ribs to vary the support structure's resistance to compression in use.

6. A head-mounted display system as described in any one of claims 4 to 5, further comprising the display unit, the display unit further comprising a housing, and the rigid chassis is removably attachable to the housing of the display unit.

7. The head mounted display system of claim 6 , wherein the rigid chassis includes one or more engagement elements around its periphery configured to releasably mate with corresponding elements on the housing.

8. A head mounted display system as claimed in any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein the face engaging surface is provided on a flange-like rim that projects inwardly from the support structure.

9. 9. The head mounted display system of claim 8, further comprising a support flange projecting inwardly from said support structure, said support flange being substantially concealed beneath said flanged rim and its face engaging surface.

10. 10. The head mounted display system of claim 1, wherein the face engaging surface is adapted to contact the user's face on the epicranial muscles, in the region above the sphenoid bone, over the outer cheek region from the sphenoid bone to the left or right zygomatic arch, over the zygomatic arch, over the inner cheek region from the zygomatic arch to the alar crest, and on the bridge of the nose below the serion to enclose a portion of the user's face therebetween.

11. 11. The head mounted display system of claim 10, wherein the interfacing structure is configured to support higher levels of force in the region of the epicranial muscles and the sphenoid bone, and the interfacing structure is configured to withstand lower levels of force in the region of the zygomatic arch, cheek area, and bridge of the nose.

12. The head mounted display system of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the interfacing structure comprises a foam cushion.

13. The head mounted display system of claim 12 , wherein the foam cushion provides the face engaging surface.

14. The head mounted display system of claim 12 , wherein the face engaging surface covers the foam cushion such that the foam cushion underlies the face engaging surface.

15. 1. A virtual reality display device, comprising: A head mounted display system according to any one of claims 1 to 14, further comprising the display unit; The display unit comprises: a display configured to selectively output computer-generated images viewable by a user in the operating position; a housing supporting the display; an interfacing structure at least partially forming a viewing opening configured to at least partially receive a user's face in the operating position, the interfacing structure constructed to at least partially form an opaque material configured to at least partially block ambient light from reaching the viewing opening in the operating position; at least one lens coupled to the housing and disposed within the viewing opening, the at least one lens aligned with the display such that, in the operating position, a user can view the display through the at least one lens; The head-mounted display system includes:

1. A virtual reality display device, further comprising: a control system having at least one sensor in communication with a processor, the at least one sensor configured to measure a parameter and communicate the measurement value to the processor, the processor configured to modify the computer-generated image output from the display based on the measurement value.

16. the at least one lens includes a first lens configured to be aligned with a user's left eye in the operating position and a second lens configured to be aligned with a user's right eye in the operating position, the first lens and the second lens being Fresnel lenses; 16. The virtual reality display device of claim 15, wherein the display includes a binocular display partitioned into a first portion and a second portion, the first portion aligned with the first lens and the second portion aligned with the second lens.

17. 17. The virtual reality display device of claim 15, further comprising a controller having at least one button selectively engageable with a user's finger, the controller being in communication with the processor and configured to send a signal to the processor when the at least one button is engaged, the processor being configured to modify the computer-generated image output from the display based on the signal.

18. 1. An augmented reality display device, comprising: A head mounted display system according to any one of claims 1 to 14, further comprising the display unit; The display unit comprises: a display constructed from a transparent or translucent material and configured to selectively output computer-generated images; a housing supporting the display; in an operating position, the positioning and stabilizing structure is configured to support the display unit, the display being configured to be aligned with an eye of a user in the operating position so that the user may at least partially view a physical environment through the display, independent of the computer-generated image output from the display; The head-mounted display system includes:

1. An augmented reality display device, further comprising: a control system having at least one sensor in communication with a processor, the at least one sensor configured to measure a parameter and communicate the measurement value to the processor, the processor configured to modify the computer-generated image output from the display based on the measurement value.

19. 20. The augmented reality display device of claim 18, wherein the display includes a first lens configured to be aligned with a user's left eye in the operating position and a second lens configured to be aligned with a user's right eye in the operating position.

20. A head-mounted display system, a positioning and stabilizing structure constructed and arranged to hold the display unit in an operative position on the user's face; the positioning and stabilizing structure comprising: a support hoop including a rear support portion adapted to contact a rear region of the user's head and a front support portion adapted to contact a front region of the user's head; the rear support portion of the support hoop is adapted to extend in a first plane and the front support portion of the support hoop is adapted to extend in a second plane; the first surface of the posterior support portion and the second surface of the anterior support portion are each adapted to extend transversely to the sagittal plane; The support hoop includes an offset configuration, wherein in the offset configuration, the rear support portion is offset from the front support portion, and the first surface of the rear support portion is positioned in a different plane than the second surface of the front support portion.

21. 21. The head mounted display system of claim 20, further comprising an adjustment mechanism, said adjustment mechanism constructed and arranged to allow selective adjustment of said rear support portion relative to said front support portion.

22. 22. The head mounted display system of claim 21, wherein the adjustment mechanism is constructed and arranged to enable selective adjustment between (1) an in-line configuration in which the first surface of the rear support is positioned flush with the second surface of the front support, and (2) the offset configuration.

23. 23. A head mounted display system as described in claim 21 or 22, wherein the offset configuration defines a spacing or displacement between the first surface and the second surface, and the adjustment mechanism allows selective adjustment of the spacing or displacement.

24. A head-mounted display system as described in any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein the adjustment mechanism enables angular adjustment of an angle formed between the first surface of the rear support and the second surface of the front support.

25. 25. The head mounted display system of claim 20, wherein the rear support includes an elastic strap, the elastic strap being biased into contact with the rear region of the user's head.

26. A head mounted display system according to any one of claims 20 to 25, wherein the rear support is constructed and arranged to engage a user's head along a portion of the occipital bone.

27. A head mounted display system as claimed in any one of claims 20 to 26, wherein the front support is constructed and arranged to engage a user's head along the top of the frontal bone.

28. 28. A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 20 to 27, further comprising at least one connector, said at least one connector constructed and arranged to interconnect said rear support and said front support with said display unit.

29. A head-mounted display system as described in any one of claims 20 to 28, wherein the rear support portion and the front support portion generate moments configured to cancel or resist moments caused by the display unit in the offset configuration.

30. 30. The head-mounted display system of claim 29, wherein the rear support includes an elastic strap that, when biased into contact with a portion of the occipital bone, generates an additional moment that counteracts or resists the moment caused by the display unit.

31. A head-mounted display system as described in any one of claims 20 to 30, wherein the head-mounted display unit comprises a housing that houses a display viewable by a user when the head-mounted display unit is in the operating position and a user interfacing structure constructed and arranged to face the user's face, the user interface structure extending near the display and defining a viewing opening to the display.

32. 32. A head-mounted display system as described in any one of claims 20 to 31, further comprising the display unit, wherein the positioning and stabilizing structure further comprises a pair of central support structures, each of the pair of central support structures adapted to be positioned around a respective one of the user's ears, and the display unit is rotatably connected to the pair of central support structures so as to enable the display unit to be rotated relative to Frankfurt Horizontal.

33. 33. The head mounted display system of claim 32, wherein at least one of the front support portion and the rear support portion is rotatable relative to the pair of central support structures.

34. 1. A virtual reality display device, comprising: A head mounted display system according to any one of claims 20 to 33, further comprising the display unit; The display unit comprises: a display configured to selectively output computer-generated images viewable by a user in the operating position; a housing supporting the display; an interfacing structure coupled to the housing and positioned to face a face of a user in the operating position, the interfacing structure at least partially defining a viewing opening configured to at least partially receive the user's face in the operating position, the interfacing structure being at least partially constructed from an opaque material configured to at least partially block ambient light from reaching the viewing opening in the operating position; at least one lens coupled to the housing and disposed within the viewing opening, the at least one lens aligned with the display such that, in the operating position, a user can view the display through the at least one lens; The head-mounted display system includes:

1. A virtual reality display device, further comprising: a control system having at least one sensor in communication with a processor, the at least one sensor configured to measure a parameter and communicate the measurement value to the processor, the processor configured to modify the computer-generated image output from the display based on the measurement value.

35. the at least one lens includes a first lens configured to be aligned with a user's left eye in the operating position and a second lens configured to be aligned with a user's right eye in the operating position, the first lens and the second lens being Fresnel lenses; 36. The virtual reality display device of claim 35, wherein the display includes a binocular display partitioned into a first portion and a second portion, the first portion aligned with the first lens and the second portion aligned with the second lens.

36. 36. The virtual reality display device of any one of claims 34 to 35, further comprising a controller having at least one button selectively engageable with a user's finger, the controller being in communication with the processor and configured to send a signal to the processor when the at least one button is engaged, the processor being configured to modify the computer-generated image output from the display based on the signal.

37. 1. An augmented reality display device, comprising: A head mounted display system according to any one of claims 20 to 33, further comprising the display unit; The display unit comprises: a display constructed from a transparent or translucent material and configured to selectively provide computer-generated images viewable by a user; a housing supporting the display; an interfacing structure coupled to the housing and positioned to face a user's face in the operating position; in an operating position, the positioning and stabilizing structure is configured to support the display unit, the display being configured to be aligned with an eye of a user in the operating position so that the user may at least partially view a physical environment through the display as augmented by the computer-generated image; The head-mounted display system includes:

1. An augmented reality display device, further comprising: a control system having at least one sensor in communication with a processor, the at least one sensor configured to measure a parameter and communicate the measurement value to the processor, the processor configured to modify the computer-generated image output from the display based on the measurement value.

38. 38. The augmented reality display device of claim 37, wherein the display includes a first lens configured to be aligned with a user's left eye in the operating position and a second lens configured to be aligned with a user's right eye in the operating position.

39. A head-mounted display system, a positioning and stabilising structure constructed and arranged to hold the head mounted display unit in an operative position on a user's face in use; the positioning and stabilizing structure comprising: a rear support adapted to contact a rear region of the user's head; a front support adapted to contact a front region of the user's head; the posterior support portion comprises a substantially inextensible and substantially elastic stiffener; A head mounted display system, wherein the rigidifier includes a plurality of slots on at least one side of the rigidifier, the plurality of slots forming a plurality of hinges.

40. 40. The head-mounted display system of claim 39, wherein the positioning and stabilizing structure further includes opposing connectors positioned on opposite sides of the user's head and extending along the temporal region of the user's head to interconnect the rear support and front support with the display unit.

41. 41. The head mounted display system of claim 40, wherein the connector is rigid along at least a portion of its length.

42. A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 40 to 41, further comprising an adjustment mechanism constructed and arranged to adjust the positioning and stabilising structure to fit different sized user heads, the adjustment mechanism being located at a connection between the rear support and the front support.

43. A head mounted display system as claimed in any one of claims 39 to 42, wherein the positioning and stabilising structure further comprises a forehead support connector.

44. 44. The head mounted display system of claim 43, wherein the forehead support connector extends generally in the direction of the sagittal plane and interconnects the forehead support with an upper edge region of the display unit.

45. 45. The head mounted display system of claim 44, wherein the forehead support connector further includes an adjustment mechanism constructed and arranged to adjust the positioning and stabilizing structure to fit different sized user heads.

46. 46. ​​A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 39 to 45, wherein the rigidifier is configured to flex or deform along its length and the positioning and stabilizing structure to withstand or avoid stretching along the longitudinal axis of the rigidifier.

47. 47. A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 39 to 46, further comprising an elastic component, the elastic component being disposed on a user contact side of the rigidification body adapted to contact the skin of a user.

48. A head-mounted display system as described in any one of claims 39 to 47, further comprising the display unit comprising a housing including a display that is viewable by a user when the display unit is in the operating position, and an interfacing structure constructed and arranged to face the user's face, the interfacing structure extending around the display and defining a viewing opening for the display.

49. 1. A virtual reality display device, comprising: A head mounted display system according to any one of claims 39 to 48, further comprising the display unit; The display unit comprises: a display configured to selectively output computer-generated images viewable by a user in the operating position; a housing supporting the display; an interfacing structure coupled to the housing and positioned to face a face of a user in the operating position, the interfacing structure at least partially defining a viewing opening configured to at least partially receive the user's face in the operating position, the interfacing structure being at least partially constructed from an opaque material configured to at least partially block ambient light from reaching the viewing opening in the operating position; at least one lens coupled to the housing and disposed within the viewing opening, the at least one lens aligned with the display such that, in the operating position, a user can view the display through the at least one lens; The head-mounted display system includes:

1. A virtual reality display device, further comprising: a control system having at least one sensor in communication with a processor, the at least one sensor configured to measure a parameter and communicate the measurement value to the processor, the processor configured to modify the computer-generated image output from the display based on the measurement value.

50. the at least one lens includes a first lens configured to be aligned with a user's left eye in the operating position and a second lens configured to be aligned with a user's right eye in the operating position, the first lens and the second lens being Fresnel lenses; 50. The virtual reality display device of claim 49, wherein the display includes a binocular display partitioned into a first portion and a second portion, the first portion aligned with the first lens and the second portion aligned with the second lens.

51. 51. A virtual reality display device as described in any one of claims 49 to 50, further comprising a controller having at least one button selectively engageable with a user's finger, the controller being in communication with the processor and configured to send a signal to the processor when the at least one button is engaged, the processor being configured to modify the computer-generated image output from the display based on the signal.

52. 1. An augmented reality display device, comprising: A head mounted display system according to any one of claims 39 to 48, further comprising the display unit; The display unit comprises: a display constructed from a transparent or translucent material and configured to selectively provide computer-generated images viewable by a user; a housing supporting the display; an interfacing structure coupled to the housing and positioned to face a user's face in the operating position; in an operating position, the positioning and stabilizing structure is configured to support the display unit, the display being configured to be aligned with an eye of a user in the operating position so that the user may at least partially view a physical environment through the display as augmented by the computer-generated image; The head-mounted display system includes:

1. An augmented reality display device, further comprising: a control system having at least one sensor in communication with a processor, the at least one sensor configured to measure a parameter and communicate the measurement value to the processor, the processor configured to modify the computer-generated image output from the display based on the measurement value.

53. 53. The augmented reality display device of claim 52, wherein the display includes a first lens configured to be aligned with a user's left eye in the operating position and a second lens configured to be aligned with a user's right eye in the operating position.

54. A head-mounted display system, a positioning and stabilising structure constructed and arranged to hold the display unit in an operative position on the user's face in use; an interfacing structure for a display unit constructed and arranged to face a user's face, the interfacing structure extending around a periphery of a display viewable by the user when the display unit is in the operating position and defining a viewing opening for the display; a head mounted display system, wherein the interfacing structure includes face engaging portions located one on each of the left and right hand sides of the viewing opening, the face engaging portions being constructed and arranged to be slidably movable relative to one another.

55. 55. The head mounted display system of claim 54, wherein the interfacing structure further includes a chassis, the face engaging portion constructed and arranged to be slidably movable relative to the chassis.

56. A head-mounted display system as described in any one of claims 54 to 55, further comprising the display unit, the display unit further comprising a housing, and the interfacing structure comprising components and / or regions removably attachable to the display unit housing.

57. A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 54 to 56, wherein the movable face engaging portions are slidably movable relative to one another to selectively adjust the interfacing structure over a range of widths and / or shapes, thereby customizing the interfacing structure to the anthropomorphic features of a user's face.

58. A head-mounted display system as described in any one of claims 54 to 57, further comprising two static face engagement portions, one of the two static face engagement portions adapted to span between the slidably movable face engagement portions over the user's nose region, and the other of the two static face engagement portions adapted to span between the slidably movable face engagement portions over the user's forehead region.

59. 59. The head mounted display system of claim 58, wherein the two static face engaging portions each include a distal end that overlaps with a respective distal end of the slidably movable face engaging portion.

60. A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 58 to 59, wherein the static face engagement portion and the slidably movable face engagement portion provide a continuous surface around the user's eyes.

61. A head-mounted display system as described in any one of claims 58 to 60, wherein the static face-engaging portion and the slidably movable face-engaging portion are constructed and arranged to form an air gap therebetween for breathability.

62. 1. A virtual reality display device, comprising: A head mounted display system according to any one of claims 54 to 61, further comprising the display unit; The display unit comprises: a display configured to selectively output computer-generated images viewable by a user in the operating position; a housing supporting the display; a viewing opening in an interfacing structure configured to at least partially receive a face of a user in the operating position, the interfacing structure constructed to at least partially form an opaque material configured to at least partially block ambient light from reaching the viewing opening in the operating position; at least one lens coupled to the housing and disposed within the viewing opening, the at least one lens aligned with the display such that, in the operating position, a user can view the display through the at least one lens; The head-mounted display system includes:

1. A virtual reality display device, further comprising: a control system having at least one sensor in communication with a processor, the at least one sensor configured to measure a parameter and communicate the measurement value to the processor, the processor configured to modify the computer-generated image output from the display based on the measurement value.

63. the at least one lens includes a first lens configured to be aligned with a user's left eye in the operating position and a second lens configured to be aligned with a user's right eye in the operating position, the first lens and the second lens being Fresnel lenses; 63. The virtual reality display device of claim 62, wherein the display includes a binocular display partitioned into a first portion and a second portion, the first portion aligned with the first lens and the second portion aligned with the second lens.

64. 64. A virtual reality display device as described in any one of claims 62 to 63, further comprising a controller having at least one button selectively engageable with a user's finger, the controller being in communication with the processor and configured to send a signal to the processor when the at least one button is engaged, the processor being configured to modify the computer-generated image output from the display based on the signal.

Images