Positioning, stabilization, and interface structures and systems incorporating same

Abstract

A head mounted display system including a head mounted display unit and a positioning and stabilizing structure, the head mounted display unit including a display unit housing having a display, and an interface structure connected to the display unit housing and constructed and arranged to engage a user's face in use, the positioning and stabilizing structure constructed and arranged to hold the head mounted display unit in an operable position on the user's head in use, the positioning and stabilizing structure including a pair of arms connected to each lateral side of the display unit housing in use, the arms being substantially rigid and constructed and arranged to project rearwardly from the display unit housing at each lateral side of the user's head in use, a rear portion of each arm including an upper arm connection portion and a lower arm connection portion, a top strap portion constructed and arranged to connect between each upper arm connection portion of the pair of arms and the head mounted display unit, and a rear strap portion connected between the lower arm connection portions and constructed and arranged to engage a portion of the user's head located above or below the rear region of the user's head in use.

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 anyone copying this patent document or the patent disclosure for purposes of disclosure 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 application This application claims the benefit of Australian Provisional Application No. 2022900404 filed on February 22, 2022, Australian Provisional Application No. 2022900671 filed on March 18, 2022, and Australian Provisional Application No. 2022902498 filed on August 31, 2022, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. [Background technology]

[0003] 2 Background technology 2.1 Technical Fields The present technology relates generally to head-mounted displays, positioning and stabilizing structures, user interface structures, and other components for use in head-mounted displays, display units, and related head-mounted display assemblies and systems, and methods, including positioning and stabilizing structures, interface structures, and / or components. The present technology finds particular application in the use of immersive reality head-mounted displays and is described in that context herein. It is understood that the present technology has broader application and can be used in any type of head-mounted display configuration, including, but not limited to, virtual reality displays, augmented reality displays, and / or mixed reality displays. 2.2 Description of Related Art

[0004] Where prior art is referenced herein, it is to be understood that such reference is not an admission that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or anywhere else. 2.2.1 Immersive Technology

[0005] Immersive technology refers to technologies that create a sense of surroundings and replicate or augment the physical environment through a digital or virtual environment, thereby creating a sense of immersion.

[0006] In particular, immersive technologies provide a sense of visual immersion to the user and create virtual objects and environments. Immersive technologies can also provide immersion in at least one of the other five senses. 2.2.2 Virtual Reality

[0007] Virtual reality (VR) is a computer-generated three-dimensional image or environment presented to a user. In other words, the environment may be completely virtual. Specifically, the user watches an electronic screen to observe virtual or computer-generated images within the virtual environment. Because the created environment is completely virtual, the user's interaction with the physical environment may be blocked or obstructed (e.g., they may not be able to hear or see physical objects in their current physical environment).

[0008] The electronic screen may be supported in the user's line of sight (e.g., mounted on the user's head). While observing the electronic screen, visual feedback output by the electronic screen and observed by the user may generate a virtual environment intended to simulate a real environment. For example, the user may be able to pivot their head or entire body to look around (e.g., 360°) and interact with virtual objects that the user can observe through the electronic screen. This may provide the user with an immersive experience in which the virtual environment stimulates at least one of the user's five senses, replacing corresponding stimuli in the physical environment while the user is using the VR device. Typically, the stimuli involve at least the user's vision (i.e., because they are looking at the electronic screen), but other senses may also be involved. The electronic screen is typically mounted on the user's head and may be located near the user's eyes, allowing the user to easily observe the virtual environment.

[0009] The VR device may generate other forms of feedback in addition to or apart from visual feedback. For example, the VR device may include or be connected to speakers to provide auditory feedback. The VR device may also include haptic feedback (e.g., in the form of a tactile response) that may correspond to the visual and / or auditory feedback. This can create a more immersive virtual environment because the user receives stimuli that correspond to multiple senses.

[0010] While using a VR device, a user may want to limit or block ambient stimuli. For example, a user may want to avoid seeing or hearing the surrounding environment in order to better process stimuli from the VR device in the virtual environment. Thus, the VR device may limit or prevent the user's eyes from receiving ambient light. In some examples, this may be done by providing a shield on the user's face. In some examples, the shield may be placed near (e.g., in contact with or close to) the user's face, but may not be in close contact with the user's face. In any example, ambient light may be prevented from reaching the user's eyes, so that the only light the user can observe is from the electronic screen.

[0011] In other examples, the VR device may limit and / or prevent the user's ears from hearing ambient noise. In some examples, this may be done by providing the user with headphones (e.g., noise-canceling headphones), which may output sound from the VR device and limit the user from hearing noise from the physical environment. In some examples, the VR device may output sound at a volume sufficient to prevent the user from hearing ambient noise.

[0012] In either example, the user may not want to be overly stimulated (e.g., by both the physical and virtual environments), and thus blocking and / or limiting ambient sounds from stimulating the user helps the user focus on the virtual environment without being distracted by ambient sounds.

[0013] Various types of VR devices are described below. Typically, a single VR device may include at least two different classifications. For example, a VR device may be classified by portability or how the display unit is coupled to the rest of the interface. These classifications may be independent, such that classification in one group (e.g., the portability of the unit) does not predetermine classification in another group. There may also be additional categories for classifying VR devices, but these are not explicitly listed below. 2.2.2.1 Portability 2.2.2.1.1 Fixed unit

[0014] In some forms, a VR device may be used in combination with another device, such as a computer or video game console. This type of VR device may be stationary because it cannot be used without the computer or video game console, thereby limiting where it can be used (e.g., the location of the computer or video game console).

[0015] Because a VR device can be used in conjunction with a computer or video game console, the VR device may be connected to the computer or video game console. For example, a power cord may connect the two systems together. This may further "fix" the location of the VR device, since a user wearing the VR device cannot move more than the length of the power cord from the computer or video game console. In other examples, the VR device may be connected wirelessly (e.g., via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc.) but may be relatively fixed by the strength of the wireless signal.

[0016] Connection to a computer or video game console may provide control functionality to the VR device. The controls may be communicated (i.e., via a wired connector or wirelessly) to aid in operation of the VR device. In fixed-unit VR device examples, these controls may be required to operate the display screen, and the VR device may not be operable without connection to a computer or video game console.

[0017] In some forms, the computer or video game console may power the VR device so that the user does not need to support batteries on their head, which may make the VR device more comfortable to wear because the user does not have to support the weight of the batteries.

[0018] A user may also receive output from a computer or video game console, at least in part, via a VR device rather than a television or monitor. This may provide a more immersive experience for the user while using the computer or video game console (e.g., playing a video game). In other words, the display output of the VR device may be substantially the same as the output from a computer monitor or television. Some controls and / or sensors required to output these images may be housed in the computer or video game console, which may further reduce the weight the user needs to support on their body.

[0019] In some embodiments, the motion sensor may be located remotely from the VR device and connected to a computer or video game console. For example, at least one camera may face the user to track the user's head movements. Processing of the data recorded by the camera(s) may be performed by the computer or video game console before being sent to the VR device. This may contribute to a lighter VR device, but may further limit where the VR device can be used. In other words, the VR device must be within the field of view of the camera(s). 2.2.2.1.2 Portable Unit

[0020] In some configurations, a VR device may be a self-contained unit, including power and sensors, eliminating the need to connect the VR device to a computer or video game console. This allows users greater freedom of use and mobility. For example, users are not limited to using the VR device in close proximity to a computer or video game console, but can also use the VR device outdoors or in other environments without a computer or television.

[0021] Because VR devices are not connected to the computer or video game console being used, they must support all necessary electronic components. This includes batteries, sensors, and processors. These components add weight to the VR device, which the user must support with their body. Proper weight distribution may be required to ensure this additional weight does not increase discomfort for the user wearing the VR device.

[0022] In some configurations, the electrical components of a VR device may be housed in a single housing and placed in front of the user's face during use. This configuration may be referred to as a "brick." In this configuration, the center of gravity of the VR device, without the positioning and stabilizing structures, is located directly in front of the user's face. To counteract the moment caused by gravity, the positioning and stabilizing structures coupled to the brick configuration must provide a force toward the user's face, for example, caused by tension in the headgear straps. While a brick configuration may be advantageous for manufacturing (e.g., because all electrical components are in close proximity) and allow for interchangeability of the positioning and stabilizing structures (e.g., because there are no electrical connections), the force required to maintain the position of the VR device (e.g., tension in the headgear) may be uncomfortable for the user. Specifically, the VR device may dig into the user's face, potentially causing irritation or marking of the user's skin. Because the user's head experiences force from the display housing on the face and force from the headgear at the back of the head, the combination of these two forces may feel "tight." This may discourage users from wearing the VR device.

[0023] VR and other mixed reality devices may be used in ways that cause the user's head and entire body to move violently (e.g., during gaming), which can create large forces and moments that tend to disrupt the device's position on the user's head. Simply pressing the device hard against the user's head to withstand large destructive forces may be uncomfortable for the user or may become uncomfortable after a short period of time and therefore may be unacceptable.

[0024] In some forms, electrical components may be spaced throughout the VR device rather than across the entire front of the user's face. For example, some electrical components (e.g., batteries) may be located in the positioning and stabilizing structure, particularly in the rear contact portion. In this manner, the weight of the battery (or other electrical components) may generate a moment opposite to that generated by the remainder of the VR device (e.g., the display). Therefore, it may be sufficient for the positioning and stabilizing structure to apply a lower clamping force, resulting in less force against the user's face (e.g., fewer marks left on the skin). However, in some existing devices, cleaning or replacing the positioning and stabilizing structure may be more difficult due to the electrical connections.

[0025] In some configurations, spacing out electrical components requires that some electrical components be located away from the rest of the VR device. For example, the battery and processor may be electrically connected but carried separately from the rest of the VR device. Unlike the "fixed unit" described above, the battery and processor may be carried with the rest of the VR device. For example, the battery and processor may be carried on the user's belt or in a pocket. This may have the advantage of reducing the weight on the user's head, but without the counteracting moment. Because less total weight is supported by the head, the tension provided by the positioning and stabilizing structure may be less than in a "brick" configuration. 2.2.2.2 Display Connection 2.2.2.2.1 Integrated Display Screen

[0026] In some forms, the display screen is an integral component of the VR device and typically cannot be removed or otherwise detached from the rest of the VR device.

[0027] The display screen may be secured within the housing and protected from damage. For example, the display screen may be completely covered by the housing, reducing the likelihood of it being scratched. Furthermore, integrating the display screen with the rest of the VR device eliminates the possibility of the display screen being lost.

[0028] In these configurations, the display screen functions purely as an immersive technology display. Most "fixed units" include an integrated display screen. "Portable units" may include an integrated display screen or may include a detachable display screen (discussed below). 2.2.2.2.2 Detachable display screen

[0029] In some forms, the display screen is a separate structure that can be detached from the VR device and used separately.

[0030] In some forms, a portable electronic device (e.g., a mobile phone) may be selectively inserted into the housing of the VR device. The portable electronic device may contain most or all of the sensors and processor and may create the virtual environment through a downloadable app.

[0031] Portable electronic devices are generally lightweight and may not require positioning and stabilizing structures to apply significant forces to the user's head. 2.2.3 Augmented Reality

[0032] In some forms, augmented reality (AR) is a computer-generated three-dimensional image or environment that is presented to a user.

[0033] While similar to VR, AR differs in that a virtual environment, created at least in part by an electronic screen, is viewed in combination with the user's physical environment. In other words, AR creates virtual objects and uses elements from the virtual environment to modify and / or enhance the user's physical environment. The result of AR is a composite environment that includes physical and virtual objects, and is therefore both a physical and virtual environment.

[0034] For example, images created by an electronic screen may be overlaid on the user's physical environment. Only a portion of the AR composite environment presented to the user includes virtual objects. Thus, a user may desire to continue receiving ambient stimuli from their physical environment while using an AR device (e.g., to continually observe physical or non-virtual components of the combined environment).

[0035] Because AR may be used in a user's physical environment, the AR device may not be electrically or otherwise connected to a computer or video game console. Instead, the AR device may contain a battery or other power source. This may allow the user maximum freedom of movement, allowing them to explore different physical environments while using the AR device.

[0036] This important difference between VR and AR can change the types of wearable electronic screens. As mentioned above, users of VR devices may want to block out ambient light, so the housing of the electronic screen may be opaque to limit or prevent ambient light from reaching the user. However, users of AR devices may want to see the virtual environment blended with the real environment. While the electronic screen of an AR device is similarly held in front of the user's eyes, the screen of an AR device may be transparent or translucent, and the screen may not be held by an opaque housing (or the opaque material may not substantially obstruct the user's line of sight). This allows the user to continue to receive ambient stimuli when a virtual environment is simultaneously present. However, some VR devices that do not include a transparent screen that allows the user to see their real-world surroundings may be configured for AR by capturing real-time video of the user's real-world surroundings from the user's perspective (e.g., using a camera on the display housing) and displaying it on the display screen.

[0037] Additionally, people who use AR devices may be more mobile than people who use VR devices (e.g., because AR users can see their physical environment or are not tethered to a computer or video game console). Therefore, people who use AR devices may want to wear the devices for extended periods of time while moving around (e.g., walking, running, biking, etc.). Including components such as batteries in AR devices may cause the AR device to cause discomfort to the user's head or neck, discouraging users from wearing the AR device for extended periods of time. 2.2.4 Mixed Reality

[0038] Mixed reality (MR) is similar to AR, but MR devices offer users more ways to interact with virtual objects and environments than AR devices, potentially creating a more immersive experience. MR's virtual reality can also be overlaid or blended with the user's physical environment. Unlike AR, however, users may be able to interact with the virtual environment in a manner similar to that which occurs in VR. In other words, AR presents only computer-generated images in the physical environment, while MR presents the user with the same or similar computer-generated images and allows interaction with the images in the physical environment (such as "grabbing" virtually generated objects with their hands). Thus, the virtual environment blends further with the physical environment, allowing the combined environment to better replicate the real environment. 2.2.5 Head-mounted display interface

[0039] Head-mounted display interfaces allow users to immerse themselves in virtual environments and have a wide range of applications in fields such as communications, training, medicine and surgery, engineering, and video games.

[0040] Head-mounted display interfaces can provide different levels of immersion. For example, some head-mounted display interfaces can provide a user with a fully immersive experience. An example of fully immersive experience is virtual reality (VR). Head-mounted display interfaces can also provide a partial immersive experience that aligns with the use of AR devices.

[0041] A VR head-mounted display interface is typically provided as a system including a display unit configured to be held in an operable position in front of a user's face. The display unit typically includes a housing that houses a display and a user interface structure constructed and arranged to face the user's face. The user interface structure may extend around the periphery of the display and cooperate with the housing to define a viewing opening for the display. The user interface structure may include a cushion for engaging the face and enhancing user comfort, and / or a light-blocking structure for blocking 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.

[0042] Other head-mounted display interfaces may not offer full immersion, meaning that the user experiences elements of the physical environment as well as the virtual environment. Examples of experiences that do not offer full immersion include augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR).

[0043] AR and / or MR head-mounted display interfaces are also typically provided as systems including a display unit configured to be held in an operable position in front of a user's face. Similarly, the display unit typically includes a housing containing a display and a user interface structure constructed and positioned to face the user's face. AR and / or MR head-mounted display systems are similar to VR in that they also include positioning and stabilizing structures positioned on the user's head to hold the display unit in place. However, AR and MR head-mounted displays do not include a cushion to completely block ambient light from the display. This is because these experiences, which do not provide a fully immersive experience, require elements of the physical environment. Instead, augmented and / or mixed head-mounted displays allow users to view a combination of physical and virtual environments.

[0044] In any type of immersive technology, it is important that the head-mounted display interface be comfortable so that the user can wear the head-mounted display for extended periods of time. Additionally, it is important that the display be able to provide images that change with changes in the position and orientation of the user's head in order to create a partially or fully virtual environment that resembles or replicates a fully physical environment. 2.2.5.1 Interface Structure

[0045] The head mounted display may include a user interface structure, the shape and configuration of which directly impacts the effectiveness and comfort of the patient interface, as the seal-forming structure is in direct contact with the patient's face.

[0046] Designing user interface structures presents many challenges. The face has a complex three-dimensional shape. The size and shape of the nose and head vary greatly from person to person. Because the head contains bone, cartilage, and soft tissue, different areas of the face respond differently to mechanical forces.

[0047] One type of interface structure extends around the periphery of the display unit and is intended to seal against the user's face when force is applied to the user interface with the interface structure facing the user's face. The interface structure may include a polyurethane (PU) pad. This type of interface structure may result in a gap between the interface structure and the surface, requiring additional force to press the display unit against the surface to achieve the desired contact.

[0048] In areas where the user interface is not involved at all, gaps can form between the facial interface and the user's face, allowing unwanted light pollution to enter the display unit (e.g., particularly when using virtual reality). Light pollution or "light leak" can reduce the effectiveness and enjoyment of the user's overall immersion. Additionally, conventional systems can be difficult to adjust to accommodate different head sizes. Furthermore, display units and associated stabilizing structures are often relatively heavy and can be difficult to clean, which can further limit the comfort and ease of use of the system.

[0049] Another type of interface structure incorporates a flap seal of thin material located at a portion of the perimeter of the display unit to provide a seal against the user's face. As with previous styles of interface structures, if the face and interface structure do not match well, additional force may be required to achieve a seal or light may leak into the display unit during use. Additionally, if the shape of the interface structure does not match the shape of the user, it may crease or distort during use, resulting in undesirable light transmission.

[0050] The user interface may be characterized in part according to the design intent of where the interface structures engage the face during use. Some interface structures may be limited to engage areas of the user's face that protrude beyond the arc of curvature of the face-engaging surface of the interface structure. These areas may typically include the user's forehead and cheekbones, which may result in localized stress points that cause discomfort to the user. Other facial areas may not be engaged at all by the interface structure, or may be engaged only negligibly, thereby insufficiently increasing the travel distance of the clamping pressure. These areas may typically include the sides of the user's face, or the area adjacent to and surrounding the user's nose. When there is a mismatch between the shape of the user's face and the interface structure, it is advantageous for the interface structure or associated components to be adaptable so that proper contact or other relationship is formed. 2.2.5.2 Positioning and Stabilization

[0051] To hold the display unit in a correct and operable position, the head-mounted display system further includes positioning and stabilizing structures positioned on the user's head. These structures may serve to provide a force to counteract the force of gravity for the head-mounted display and / or interface structure. Previously, these structures typically consisted of expandable, rigid structures applied to the head under tension to hold the display unit in an operable position. Such systems tend to exert constricting pressure on the user's face, potentially causing discomfort at localized stress points. Additionally, conventional systems can be difficult to adjust to accommodate a wide range of application head sizes. Furthermore, the display unit and associated stabilizing structures are often heavy and difficult to clean, further limiting the comfort and ease of use of the system.

[0052] Certain other head-mounted display systems may not be functionally suitable for this application. For example, positioning and stabilization structures designed for decorative or visual aesthetics may not include the structural capability to maintain adequate pressure around the face. For example, too much clamping pressure may cause discomfort to the user. Alternatively, insufficient clamping pressure on the user's face may not effectively shield the display from ambient light.

[0053] Certain other head-mounted display systems may be uncomfortable or impractical with current technology, for example, when using the system for extended periods of time.

[0054] As a result of these challenges, some head-mounted displays are obtrusive, aesthetically unpleasing, expensive, poorly fitting, difficult to use, and uncomfortable, especially when worn for extended periods or when the user is unfamiliar with the system. Inappropriate sizing of positioning and stabilizing structures can reduce comfort and shorten duration of use.

[0055] Thus, the interface portions of the user interface that are used for a fully immersive experience of the virtual environment are subject to forces that correspond to the user's movements during the experience. 2.2.5.3 Material

[0056] Materials used in head-mounted display assemblies include high-density foam for the contact portions of the interface structure, rigid shells for the housing, and positioning and stabilizing structures formed from rigid plastic clamping structures. These materials have various drawbacks, including the inability of the skin covered by the material to breathe, lack of flexibility, difficulty in cleaning, and susceptibility to bacterial adhesion. As a result, products made from such materials can be uncomfortable to wear for extended periods of time and can cause skin irritation in some individuals, limiting the product's applicability. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0057] 3. Summary of the invention The present technology is directed to providing positioning and stabilizing structures for use in supporting, stabilizing, mounting, utilizing, and / or securing head-mounted displays with improved one or more of comfort, cost, effectiveness, ease of use, and manufacturability.

[0058] A first aspect of the present technology relates to an apparatus used to support, stabilize, mount, utilize, and / or secure a head-mounted display.

[0059] Another aspect of the present technology relates to methods used to support, stabilize, mount, utilize, and / or secure a head-mounted display.

[0060] Another aspect is a positioning and stabilizing structure for a head-mounted display that includes a rear (or rear) support structure (or portion) positioned to contact a rear region of a user's head in use.

[0061] In some forms, the rear support, or at least a portion thereof, is positioned behind the base of the user's upper ear.

[0062] In some forms, the rear support is biased to contact the rear of the user's head.

[0063] In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure further includes opposing connectors positioned on opposite sides of the user's head, extending along the sides of the user's head, and interconnecting the rear support to the head-mounted display unit, hi some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure includes a front support connecting the rear support to the head-mounted display unit.

[0064] The present technology may also be directed to providing an interface structure used to support, cushion, stabilize, position, and / or seal a head-mounted display in a facing relationship with a user's face.

[0065] Another aspect relates to an apparatus used to support, cushion, stabilize, position, and / or seal a head-mounted display in a facing relationship with a user's face.

[0066] Another aspect relates to a method used to support, cushion, stabilize, position, and / or seal a head-mounted display in a facing relationship with a user's face.

[0067] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system including a head-mounted display unit including: 1) a display unit housing having a display; and 2) an interface structure connected to the display unit housing and constructed and arranged to engage a user's face in use. The head-mounted display system further includes a positioning and stabilizing structure constructed and arranged to hold the head-mounted display unit in an operable position on the user's head during use, the positioning and stabilizing structure including: 1) a pair of arms connected to each lateral side of the display unit housing during use, the arms constructed and arranged to protrude rearward from the display unit housing on each lateral side of the user's head during use, the rear portion of each arm constructed and arranged to connect between each upper arm connection portion of the pair of arms, the upper arm connection portion including an upper arm connection portion and a lower arm connection portion; 2) a top strap portion constructed and arranged to connect between each upper arm connection portion of the pair of arms, the top strap portion configured to engage with the user's head at a head region above the position of the pair of arms during use; and 3) an occipital strap portion connected between the lower arm connection portions, and constructed and arranged to engage with a portion of the user's head located above or below the occipital region of the user's head during use.

[0068] In one example, when the head-mounted display system is worn, a portion of each arm at the rear of the head-mounted display unit has increased stiffness compared to the top strap portion.

[0069] In a further example, a) the arms are pivotally attached to the display unit housing; b) each arm is at least partially covered by a textile sleeve; c) the top strap portion is connected to the head-mounted display unit in addition to the upper arm connection of each of the pair of arms; d) the top strap portion is connected to the head-mounted display unit at a single location; e) the top strap portion is substantially Y-shaped, with a front leg connected to the head-mounted display unit and a pair of rear legs connected to the upper arm connection of the pair of arms; f) the length of at least one portion of the top strap portion is selectively adjustable; g) the top strap portion is configured to pass through an eyelet on the head-mounted display unit and fold back to secure itself; h) the top strap portion is configured to secure itself by a hook-and-loop connection; i) the rear strap portion includes a rear strap connector at one end of the rear strap portion, the rear strap connector constructed and arranged to be removably attached to one of the corresponding lower arm connection of the arm; and j) the rear strap connector is constructed and arranged to be magnetically attached to one of the corresponding lower arm connection. k) the length of the rear strap portion is selectively adjustable, l) the rear strap portion is configured to pass through an eyelet of the rear strap connector and fold back and secure to itself, and / or m) the rear strap portion is configured to secure to itself via a hook and loop connection.

[0070] In a further example, n) one or both of the arms are formed of two portions releasably connected to each other. o) The two portions of each arm are movably connected to each other to allow for size adjustment of the positioning and stabilizing structure. p) One or both of the arms are releasably connected to the head-mounted display unit. q) One or both of the lower arm connections are movable relative to the rest of each arm. r) The upper arm connection and the lower arm connection of each arm are located posterior to the upper ear base of the user's head in use. s) Each arm is configured to resist upward and downward bending in use. t) Each arm is configured to engage a partially posteriorly facing surface of the user's head, allowing for inward bending in use. u) In use, when the top strap portion is under tension, the upper arm connection is pressed against the surface of the user's head. v) When the head-mounted display system is worn, when the rear strap portion is fastened, the rear strap portion is configured to press the lower arm connection against the surface of the user's head. w) each arm includes one or more hinges to facilitate bending of each arm to conform to the shape of the user's head when the head-mounted display system is worn; x) the lower arm connection portion is configured to be located above the upper ear base of the user's head when in use; y) each arm protrudes rearward and bends inward at the back of the user's head when the head-mounted display system is worn; and / or z) each arm protrudes rearward and bends upward, away from the display unit housing, when the head-mounted display system is worn.

[0071] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning and stabilizing structure for holding a head-mounted display unit in an operable position on a user's head, the positioning and stabilizing structure including: a) a ring strap portion forming a ring shape, including an occipital strap portion constructed and arranged to engage a region of the user's head located above the occipital bone or above the parietal bone proximal to the occipital bone; and a pair of lateral strap portions configured to extend along respective sides of the user's head in use, each lateral strap portion having 1) a rear end portion connected to a respective side of the ring strap portion at a connection point, and 2) a front end portion adapted to be connected to a respective lateral side of the head-mounted display unit.

[0072] In one example, when the positioning and stabilising structure is worn in use, each connection point is located above the front end portion of each lateral strap portion.

[0073] In a further example, a) each lateral strap portion extends at least partially upwardly in a direction from the front end portion to the rear end portion. b) the ring strap portion is configured to substantially retain its in-use shape when the positioning and stabilizing structure is not being worn by a user. c) the positioning and stabilizing structure is configured to resist angular change between the upper transverse strap portion and the occipital strap portion when the lateral strap portions are tensioned in use. d) the occipital strap portion has a width measured transversely to its length greater than a width measured transversely to its length. e) the ring strap portion has a thickness greater than a thickness of the lateral strap portions. f) the ring strap portion has a thickness greater than a thickness of the top strap portion. g) the ring strap portion includes a plurality of separately formed segments joined together to form the ring strap portion. h) the segments include an upper segment, a pair of lateral segments, and a lower segment. i) the ring strap portion includes at least a pair of hinges, each hinge located proximate one of the connection points between the ring strap portion and each lateral strap portion. j) the length of each lateral strap portion is selectively adjustable, k) each lateral strap portion is configured to be secured to itself to form a loop adapted to be connected to a head-mounted display unit, and / or l) each lateral strap portion is configured to be secured to itself by a hook-and-loop connection.

[0074] In a further example, m) the occipital strap portion is constructed and arranged to rest at or near the Frankfort horizontal plane of the user's head in use. n) the positioning and stabilizing structure further includes a top strap portion connected to the upper transverse strap portion or the occipital strap portion and configured to extend forward from the upper transverse strap portion over a portion of the user's head above the user's frontal bone in use, the top strap portion being adapted to be connected to a head-mounted display unit. o) the ring strap portion has a stiffness at a position along its length that differs from the stiffness at a position along the length of each of the lateral strap portions. p) the length of the top strap portion is selectively adjustable. q) the top strap portion is configured to secure to itself to form a loop adapted to be connected to a head-mounted display unit. r) the top strap portion is configured to secure to itself by a hook-and-loop connection. s) the ring strap portion is wider at the upper transverse strap portion at a position that intersects the sagittal plane of the user's head in use than at other positions around the ring strap portion. t) the upper transverse strap portion is wider than the lateral portion of the upper transverse strap portion at a location intersecting the sagittal plane; u) the upper transverse strap portion includes a leading edge and a trailing edge, the leading edge being curved and wider than the trailing edge; v) the leading edge curves forward in a lateral-to-medial direction, and the trailing edge does not curve substantially forward or backward; w) the ring strap portion has increased stiffness in a region immediately adjacent the connection point relative to at least one other region of the ring strap portion; and / or x) the ring strap portion further includes an upper transverse strap portion constructed and arranged to engage an upper region of a user's head at or near a coronal plane.

[0075] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system including a head-mounted display unit including: 1) a display unit housing having a display; and 2) an interface structure connected to the display unit housing and constructed and arranged to engage a user's face in use. The head-mounted display further includes a positioning and stabilizing structure constructed and arranged to hold the head-mounted display unit in an operable position on the user's head in use, the positioning and stabilizing structure being constructed and arranged to hold the head-mounted display unit in an operable position on the user's head in use, and including a band strap portion constructed and arranged to encircle the user's head in use and engage a region of the user's head above the frontal bone and an occipital strap portion constructed and arranged to engage a region of the user's head located above or below the occipital bone, the head-mounted display unit being pivotally attached to the band strap portion in use by a pair of pivot connections arranged to be located on each side of the user's head, allowing the head-mounted display unit to pivot relative to the band strap portion about an axis aligned perpendicular to the sagittal plane of the user's head and allowing the display to move up and down in use.

[0076] In examples, a) the pivot connection is positioned near a mid-coronal plane of the user's head in use; b) the band strap portion includes a pair of slots, the pivot connection being positioned within the slots, the slots allowing the pivot connection to move relative to the band strap portion along a length of the slots; c) the pivot connection allows the head-mounted display unit to move at least partially forward during pivotal rotation; d) the head-mounted display unit is configured to pivot between a viewing position in which the head-mounted display unit is positioned above the user's eyes and a non-viewing position in which the head-mounted display unit is positioned above the user's frontal bone; e) the slot is configured such that the pivot connection moves at least partially forward when the head-mounted display is pivoted from the viewing position to the non-viewing position; f) the positioning and stabilizing structure includes a parietal strap portion configured to engage the user's head in use at a region overlying the parietal bone of the user's head; g) the parietal strap portion is connected to the band strap portion. h) when the head-mounted display system is worn, the parietal strap portion is connected to the band strap portion at a position spaced forward from the pivot connection, and / or i) the parietal strap portion includes a pair of elastically stretchable lateral portions proximate to the band strap portion and a rear portion that is less stretchable than the elastically stretchable lateral portions.

[0077] In a further example, j) the head-mounted display system further includes a battery pack for powering the head-mounted display system. k) the battery pack is attached to the occipital strap portion. l) the band strap portion has an adjustable length. m) the band strap portion includes a dial adjustment mechanism including a rotatable dial, the dial adjustment mechanism configured to change the length of the band strap portion when the dial is rotated. n) the dial adjustment mechanism is provided on the crown strap portion of the band strap portion. o) the dial is located in the sagittal plane of the user's head when in use. p) the head-mounted display system includes a pair of battery packs mounted on the occipital strap portion, with each battery pack located on each lateral side of the dial. q) the band strap portion includes an outer layer formed of a textile material. r) the band strap portion includes a rigidizer. s) the band strap portion includes a textile sleeve, the rigidizer being inside the textile sleeve. t) the positioning and stabilizing structure includes a forehead pad attached to the band strap portion and configured to engage the user's forehead. and / or u) the forehead pad includes a textile material.

[0078] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning and stabilizing structure for holding a head-mounted display unit in an operable position on a user's head, the positioning and stabilizing structure including: 1) a pair of lateral strap portions configured to connect to each lateral side of the head-mounted display unit, the lateral strap portions connecting to each other behind the user's head when the positioning and stabilizing structure is worn to form a band strap portion that partially encircles the user's head; 2) an adjustment mechanism disposed between the lateral strap portions and connecting the lateral strap portions at a rear region of the user's head, the adjustment mechanism configured to simultaneously and evenly adjust the length of both lateral strap portions to adjust the length of the band strap portion; and 3) an occipital strap portion constructed and arranged to engage a region of the user's head above the occipital bone.

[0079] In some examples, a) the occipital strap portion is connected to the band strap portion; b) the adjustment mechanism is constructed and arranged to allow a user to selectively adjust the length of the band strap portion when the positioning and stabilizing structure is worn by a user; c) the adjustment mechanism includes a dial adjustment mechanism including a dial that, when turned, adjusts the length of the band strap portion; d) the dial is located in the sagittal plane of the user's head when in use; e) the band strap portion is configured to engage a region of the user's head that is over the parietal bone when in use; f) the band strap portion includes a rigidizer that provides rigidity to the band strap portion at least in the region of the user's head that is over the parietal bone; g) the band strap portion as a whole includes a rigidizer that provides rigidity to the band strap portion; h) when the positioning and stabilizing structure is worn, the lateral strap portions are configured, when in use, to each be located on a path that extends posteriorly and partially upwardly away from the head-mounted display unit toward a posterior region of the user's head; and / or i) the occipital strap portion is semi-rigid.

[0080] In a further example, j) the rear strap portion includes a textile sleeve and at least one rigidizer within the textile sleeve. k) The textile sleeve is elastically stretchable in a longitudinal direction to allow for size adjustment of the rear strap portion. l) The textile sleeve is a knitted tube. m) The rear strap portion includes a pair of rigidizers, each including a rear end, which, when the positioning and stabilizing structure is worn, are laterally spaced apart near the rear of the user's head. n) When the positioning and stabilizing structure is worn, each rigidizer extends rearward and bends inward to conform to the curvature of the rear of the user's head. o) When the positioning and stabilizing structure is worn, each rigidizer extends rearward and bends downward and inward to conform to the curvature of the rear of the user's head. p) the textile sleeve is constrained by the rigidizers to lie on a bending path defined by the curvature of each rigidizer, and the textile sleeve is configured to extend over and along the rigidizers and elastically expand in a longitudinal direction. q) the positioning and stabilizing structure further includes a top strap portion connected to the band strap portion and adapted to be attached to a head-mounted display unit. r) the top strap portion is aligned with a sagittal plane of the user's head. s) the top strap portion is configured to be secured to itself to form a loop adapted to be connected to a head-mounted display unit. and / or t) the top strap portion is constructed and arranged to be secured to itself by a hook-and-loop connection.

[0081] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning and stabilizing structure for holding a head-mounted display unit in an operable position on a user's head, the positioning and stabilizing structure including: 1) an upper transverse strap portion constructed and arranged to engage an upper portion of the user's head and extend from one lateral side of the user's head to the other lateral side in use; 2) an occipital strap portion constructed and arranged to engage an area of ​​the user's head overlying the occipital bone in use; 3) a pair of junctions where the upper transverse strap portion and the occipital strap portion join, the junctions being configured to engage respective lateral sides of the user's head in use; and 4) a pair of lateral strap portions configured to extend respectively along the lateral sides of the user's head in use, each lateral strap portion having a front portion adapted to be connected to the head-mounted display unit and a rear portion connected to the respective junctions of the upper transverse strap portion and the occipital strap portion.

[0082] In one example, each lateral strap portion includes a rigidizer that provides stiffness to the lateral strap portion.

[0083] In further examples, a) in use, the upper transverse strap portions are substantially aligned with the coronal plane of the user's head, which is aligned with each superior ear-base point of the user's head. b) in use, the upper transverse strap portions are wider in the sagittal plane of the user's head than near their junctions with the occipital strap portions. c) the lateral strap portions and the upper transverse strap portion are integrally formed. d) portions of the upper transverse strap portion near each lateral strap portion include rigidizers that provide stiffness to the upper transverse strap portion. e) the upper transverse strap portion includes rigidizers that provide stiffness along the entire length of the upper transverse strap portion. f) the positioning and stabilizing structure includes a single rigidizer extending from one lateral strap portion through the upper transverse strap portion to the other lateral strap portion. g) portions of the occipital strap portions near each lateral strap portion include rigidizers that provide stiffness to the occipital strap portion. h) the single rigidizer includes rearwardly projecting portions extending to each end of the occipital strap portion. i) the occipital strap portion includes a occipital strap connector at one end thereof and is constructed and arranged to be releasably attached to an occipital strap connection at or near one of the junctions between the occipital strap portion and the upper transverse strap portion; j) the occipital strap connector is constructed and arranged to be magnetically attached to the occipital strap connection; k) the length of the occipital strap portion is selectively adjustable; l) the occipital strap portion is configured to pass through an eyelet in the occipital strap connector and fold back and secure onto itself; and / or m) the occipital strap portion is configured to be secured onto itself by a hook-and-loop connection.

[0084] In a further example, n) each lateral strap portion includes an upper transverse strap connection portion connected to the upper transverse strap portion and an occipital strap connection portion connected to the occipital strap portion. o) Each of the upper transverse strap portion and the occipital strap portion are simultaneously selectively adjustable in length. p) Each of the lateral strap portions is selectively adjustable in length. q) Each lateral strap portion is configured to be secured to itself to form a loop adapted to be connected to a head-mounted display unit. r) Each lateral strap portion is configured to be secured to itself by a hook-and-loop connection. s) The positioning and stabilizing structure further includes a top strap portion connected to the upper transverse strap portion and adapted to be connected to a head-mounted display unit. t) The top strap portion is selectively adjustable in length. u) The top strap portion is adapted to connect to a head-mounted display unit at a single location. v) The top strap portion is constructed and arranged to be secured to itself to form a loop adapted to be connected to a head-mounted display unit. and / or w) the top strap portion is constructed and arranged to be secured to itself by a hook and loop connection.

[0085] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system including a head-mounted display unit including: 1) a display unit housing having a display; 2) an interface structure connected to the display unit housing and constructed and arranged to engage a user's face in use; and 3) a positioning and stabilizing structure according to any of the aspects above.

[0086] In various examples, a) the head-mounted display unit includes a pair of arms extending rearward from each lateral side of the display unit housing, with each lateral strap portion configured to be attached to a respective arm; b) the arms are pivotally attached to the head-mounted display unit (e.g., the display unit housing); c) the lateral strap portions are constructed and arranged to be attached to an interface structure of the head-mounted display unit; d) the lateral strap portions are constructed and arranged to be attached to the display unit housing of the head-mounted display unit; e) the head-mounted display unit includes a pair of side shields extending rearward from each lateral side of the head-mounted display unit through the lateral portions of the interface structure; f) each side shield extends rearward, in use, to a position proximate a respective upper ear base point of the user's head; g) the occipital strap portions are constructed and arranged to be attached to the side shields; h) the occipital strap portions are attached to band strap portions proximate the head-mounted display unit; and / or i) the occipital strap portions are connected to the head-mounted display unit.

[0087] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, the head-mounted display system comprising: a head-mounted display unit and a positioning and stabilization structure; The head-mounted display unit includes a display unit housing having a display; an interface structure connected to the display unit housing and constructed and arranged to engage a user's face in use; the positioning and stabilizing structure is constructed and arranged to hold the head-mounted display unit in an operable position on the user's head in use; a pair of arms connected to each lateral side of the display unit housing in use, the arms being semi-rigid and constructed and arranged to protrude rearwardly from the display unit housing on each lateral side of a user's head in use, the rear of each arm including an upper arm connection portion and a lower arm connection portion; a top strap portion constructed and arranged to connect between the upper arm connection portions of each of the pair of arms; an occipital strap portion connecting between the lower arm connections and constructed and arranged to engage a portion of the user's head located above or below the occipital region of the user's head in use.

[0088] example: The arm is pivotally attached to the display unit housing. - Each arm is at least partially covered with a textile sleeve. The top strap portion is connected to the head-mounted display unit in addition to the upper arm connection portions of each of the pair of arms. -The top strap is connected to the head-mounted display unit at one point. -The top strap is essentially Y-shaped, At least one of the top strap portions is selectively adjustable in length. The top strap portion passes through the eyelet on the head-mounted display unit, folds back and fastens to itself. The top strap portion is secured to itself by a hook-and-loop connection. The rear strap portion includes an rear strap connector at one end of the rear strap portion constructed and arranged to be releasably attached to a corresponding one of the lower connection portions of the arms. -The rear head strap connector is constructed and positioned to magnetically attach to one of the corresponding lower connections. - The length of the rear strap can be selectively adjusted. The rear strap portion passes through the rear strap connector eyelet and folds back over itself to secure. The rear strap portion is secured to itself by a hook and loop connection. - one or both of the arms are formed of two parts releasably connected to each other. The two parts of each arm are movably connected to each other to allow for positioning and size adjustment of the stabilizing structure. one or both of the arms are releasably connected to a head-mounted display unit. One or both of the lower connections are movable relative to the rest of each arm. The upper and lower connection points of each arm are located behind the upper ear base of the user's head when in use. -Each arm is structured to resist bending upward and forward. Each arm is structured to bend inward to partially engage a rearward-facing surface of the user's head. When the top strap portion is under tension, the upper connection portion is forced towards the surface of the user's head. When the rear strap portion is tightened, the lower connection portion is pressed against the surface of the user's head. Each arm includes one or more hinges to facilitate bending each arm to fit the shape of the user's head. The lower connection portion is located above the upper ear base of the user's head when in use. -each arm projects backward and bends inward at the back of the user's head; and / or Each arm projects rearward and bends upward, away from the display unit housing.

[0089] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, the head-mounted display system comprising: a head-mounted display unit and a positioning and stabilization structure; The head-mounted display unit includes a display unit housing having a display; an interface structure connected to the display unit housing and constructed and arranged to engage a user's face in use; the positioning and stabilizing structure is constructed and arranged to hold the head-mounted display unit in an operable position on the user's head in use; a ring strap portion forming an upper transverse strap portion constructed and arranged to engage an upper region of the user's head at or near a coronal plane aligned with each superior ear base point of the user's head, the ring strap portion further forming an occipital strap portion constructed and arranged to engage an area of ​​the user's head located above the parietal bone at or near the occipital bone; a pair of lateral strap portions connected to the ring strap portion and constructed and arranged to be connected to each lateral side of the head mounted display unit; The head-mounted display unit includes a weight, and the ring strap portion supports at least a majority of the weight via the lateral strap portions.

[0090] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning and stabilizing structure for a head-mounted display system, the head-mounted display system including a head-mounted display unit and a positioning and stabilizing structure, the head-mounted display unit including a display unit housing with a display, and further including an interface structure connected to the display unit housing and constructed and arranged to engage a user's face in use, the positioning and stabilizing structure constructed and arranged to hold the head-mounted display unit in an operable position on the user's head in use; a ring strap portion forming an upper transverse strap portion constructed and arranged to engage an upper region of the user's head at or near a coronal plane aligned with each superior ear base point of the user's head, and further forming an occipital strap portion constructed and arranged to engage a region of the user's head located above the parietal bone at or near the occipital bone; a pair of lateral strap portions connected to the ring strap portion and constructed and arranged to be connected to each lateral side of the head mounted display unit; The head-mounted display unit includes a weight, and the ring strap portions support at least a majority of the weight via the lateral strap portions.

[0091] example: Each lateral strap portion extends at least partially upwardly from a respective connection to the head-mounted display unit. The ring strap portion is structured to substantially retain its in-use shape when the head-mounted display system is not being worn by a user. The positioning and stabilizing structure is configured to resist angular change between the upper transverse strap portion and the occipital strap portion when the lateral strap portion is tensioned. - the width of the occipital strap portion measured transversely to its length is greater than the width of the upper transverse strap portion measured transversely to its length. - The thickness of the ring strap area is greater than the thickness of the lateral strap area. -The thickness of the ring strap is greater than the thickness of the top strap. The ring strap portion includes a plurality of segments that are formed separately and joined together to form the ring strap portion. The segments include an upper segment, a pair of lateral segments, and a lower segment. The ring strap portion includes at least a pair of hinges, each of the pair of hinges being located proximate a respective joint between the ring strap portion and a respective one of the lateral strap portions. The length of each lateral strap portion is selectively adjustable. Each lateral strap portion passes through a respective eyelet on the head-mounted display unit and is folded back and secured to itself. Each lateral strap portion is secured to itself by a hook-and-loop connection. The head-mounted display unit includes a pair of arms extending rearwardly from each lateral side of the display unit housing, with each lateral strap portion attached to a respective one of the arms. The arm is pivotally attached to the display unit housing. The lateral strap portions are connected to the ring strap portions at respective locations spaced above the arms. The rear head strap portion is constructed and arranged to be positioned at or near the frankfort horizontal plane of the user's head when in use. The positioning and stabilizing structure further includes a top strap portion connected to the upper transverse strap portion or the occipital strap portion and constructed and arranged to be connected to the head-mounted display unit. -The top strap is connected to the head-mounted display unit at one point. -The length of the top strap portion is selectively adjustable. The top strap portion passes through the eyelet on the head-mounted display unit, then folds back and fastens to itself. The top strap portion is secured to itself by a hook-and-loop connection. The ring strap portion is wider at the upper transverse strap portion where it intersects the sagittal plane of the user's head in use than at other locations around the ring strap portion. The upper transverse strap portion is wider at the intersection with the sagittal plane than the lateral portion of the upper transverse strap portion. The upper transverse strap portion includes a leading edge and a trailing edge, the leading edge being curved and wider than the trailing edge. -The leading edge curves forward from the outside to the inside, while the trailing edge does not curve forward or backward substantially.

[0092] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, the head-mounted display system comprising: a head-mounted display unit and a positioning and stabilization structure; The head-mounted display unit includes a display unit housing having a display; an interface structure connected to the display unit housing and constructed and arranged to engage a user's face in use; the positioning and stabilizing structure is constructed and arranged to hold the head-mounted display unit in an operable position on the user's head in use; a band strap portion constructed and arranged to encircle the user's head in use and engage an area of ​​the user's head above the frontal bone and an area of ​​the user's head located above or below the occipital bone; an adjustment mechanism constructed and arranged to allow a user to selectively adjust the length of the band strap portion; and a pair of lateral strap portions constructed and arranged to be connected to the band strap portions at each lateral side of the user's head in use and to be connected to each lateral side of the head-mounted display unit.

[0093] example: The adjustment mechanism includes a dial adjustment mechanism that includes a dial that, when turned, adjusts the length of the band strap portion. The dial is located on the band strap in the area above or below the occipital bone of the user's head. -The dial is aligned with the sagittal plane of the user's head when in use. The band strap portion is at least partially stiffened in an area located above or below the occipital bone of the user's head. The entire band strap portion is at least partially rigidified. The positioning and stabilizing structure further includes a top strap portion connected to the band strap portion near the user's forehead and constructed and arranged to be connected to the head-mounted display unit. -The length of the top strap can be selectively adjusted. The top strap portion passes through the eyelet on the head-mounted display unit, folds back and fastens to itself. The top strap portion is secured to itself by a hook-and-loop connection. The positioning and stabilizing structure includes a forehead pad attached to the band strap portion and configured to engage the user's forehead. the head-mounted display unit includes a pair of arms on each lateral side of the head-mounted display unit, the lateral strap portions being attached to the arms; the arm is pivotally attached to the head-mounted display unit; The length of each lateral strap portion is selectively adjustable. Each lateral strap portion passes through a respective eyelet on each arm and is folded back and secured to itself. Each lateral strap portion is secured to itself by a hook-and-loop connection. The positioning and stabilizing structure further includes a parietal strap portion constructed and arranged to engage a region of the user's head overlying the parietal bone. the parietal strap portion is connected to a band strap portion adjacent to the lateral strap portion; and / or -The top strap is elastically stretchable.

[0094] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, the head-mounted display system comprising: a head-mounted display unit; and a positioning and stabilizing structure, the head-mounted display unit comprising: a display unit housing having a display; an interface structure connected to the display unit housing and constructed and arranged to engage a user's face in use; the positioning and stabilizing structure is constructed and arranged to hold the head-mounted display unit in an operable position on the user's head in use; a band strap portion constructed and arranged to encircle a user's head in use and form an occipital strap portion constructed and arranged to engage an area of ​​the user's head above the frontal bone and an occipital strap portion constructed and arranged to engage an area of ​​the user's head located above or below the occipital bone; The head-mounted display unit is pivotally attached to the band strap portion by a pair of pivot connections that allow the head-mounted display unit to pivot in use about an axis aligned perpendicular to the sagittal plane of the user's head.

[0095] example: The pivot connection is positioned near the mid-coronal plane of the user's head when in use. The band strap portion includes a pair of slots, the pivot connection being disposed within the slots, the slots allowing the pivot connection to move relative to the band strap portion along a length of the slots. The pivotal connection allows the head-mounted display unit to move at least partially forward during the pivotal movement. The head-mounted display unit is configured to pivot between a viewing position in which the head-mounted display unit is positioned above the user's eyes and a non-viewing position in which the head-mounted display unit is positioned above the user's frontal bones. When the head-mounted display unit is pivoted from a viewing position to a non-viewing position, the pivot connection moves at least partially forward within the slot. The positioning and stabilizing structure includes a parietal strap portion configured to engage the user's head in use in a region overlying the parietal bone of the user's head. -The top strap part is connected to the band strap part. The crown strap portion is connected to the band strap portion at a location spaced forward from the pivot connection. The crown strap portion includes a pair of elastically stretchable lateral portions close to the band strap portion and a rear portion that is less stretchable than the elastically stretchable lateral portions. The head-mounted display system further includes a battery pack for powering the head-mounted display system. -The battery pack is attached to the back of the head strap. -The length of the band strap is adjustable. The band strap portion includes a dial adjustment mechanism including a rotatable dial, the dial adjustment mechanism configured to vary the length of the band strap portion when the dial is rotated. -The dial adjustment mechanism is provided on the back of the head strap part of the band strap part. -The dial is positioned in the sagittal plane of the user's head when in use. The head-mounted display system includes a pair of battery packs mounted on a rear-of-the-head strap portion, one battery pack of the pair being located on each lateral side of the dial. The band strap portion includes an outer layer formed of a textile material. -The band strap part includes a rigidizer. -The band strap portion includes a textile sleeve, and the rigidizer is inside the textile sleeve. The positioning and stabilizing structure includes a forehead pad attached to the band strap portion and configured to engage the user's forehead. The forehead pad comprises a textile material. The interfacing structure includes a foam laminate material. -Foam laminate material is thermoformed. The interface structure includes a nasal ridge support configured to engage the user's nasal ridge in use. The interfacing structure comprises a breathable textile surface. -Interface structure includes 3D textiles. - the interface structure is made of silicone and foam; and / or The interface structure is made of silicon.

[0096] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, the head-mounted display system comprising: a head-mounted display unit; and a positioning and stabilizing structure, the head-mounted display unit comprising: a display unit housing having a display; an interface structure connected to the display unit housing and constructed and arranged to engage a user's face in use; the positioning and stabilizing structure is constructed and arranged to hold the head-mounted display unit in an operable position on the user's head in use; a pair of lateral strap portions constructed and arranged to be connected to respective lateral sides of the head mounted display unit, the lateral strap portions being connected to one another behind the user's head to form a band strap portion that partially encircles the user's head in use; and an occipital strap portion connected to the band strap portion or head-mounted display unit and constructed and arranged to engage a region of the user's head above the occipital bone.

[0097] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning and stabilizing structure for a head-mounted display system, the head-mounted display system including a head-mounted display unit and a positioning and stabilizing structure, the head-mounted display unit including a display unit housing with a display, and further including an interface structure connected to the display unit housing and constructed and arranged to engage a user's face in use, the positioning and stabilizing structure constructed and arranged to hold the head-mounted display unit in an operable position on the user's head in use; a pair of lateral strap portions constructed and arranged to be connected to respective lateral sides of the head mounted display unit, the lateral strap portions being connected to one another behind the user's head to form a band strap portion that partially encircles the user's head in use; and an occipital strap portion configured to be connected to the band strap portion or to be connected to a head-mounted display unit and constructed and arranged to engage a region of the user's head above the occipital bone.

[0098] example: The positioning and stabilizing structure further includes an adjustment mechanism constructed and arranged to allow a user to selectively adjust the length of the band strap portion. The adjustment mechanism includes a dial adjustment mechanism including a dial that, when turned, adjusts the length of the band strap portion. -The dial is positioned in the sagittal plane of the user's head when in use. The band strap portion engages the area of ​​the user's head above the parietal bone when in use. The band strap portion is at least partially stiffened in a portion that overlies the parietal bone of the user. The entire band strap portion is at least partially stiffened. The lateral strap portions, in use, each lie on a path that extends rearward and partially upward away from the head-mounted display unit towards the rear region of the user's head. The lateral strap portions are constructed and arranged to be attached to a pair of arms on each lateral side of the head-mounted display unit. the arm is constructed and arranged to be pivotally mounted to the head-mounted display unit; The lateral strap portion is constructed and arranged to be attached to an interface structure of the head-mounted display unit. The lateral strap portion is constructed and arranged to be attached to a display unit housing of the head-mounted display unit. The head-mounted display unit includes a pair of side shields extending rearward from each lateral side of the head-mounted display unit and passing through the lateral portion of the interface structure. Each side shield extends rearward to a position close to the base of each upper ear of the user's head. -The rear head strap portion is constructed and positioned to be attached to the side shields. -The back of the head strap is attached to the band strap. -The rear strap is attached to the band strap near the head-mounted display unit. -The rear strap is semi-rigid. The rear strap portion includes a textile sleeve and at least one rigidizer within the textile sleeve. -The textile sleeve is elastically stretchable in length to allow for size adjustment at the back of the head strap. The textile sleeve may comprise a knitted tube. the rear-head strap portion includes a pair of rigidizers, each rigidizer constructed and arranged to be connected to the head-mounted display unit and extend rearwardly therefrom, each rigidizer including a rear end, the rear ends of the rigidizers spaced laterally from one another near the rear of the user's head. Each rigidizer extends rearward and bends inward to conform to the curvature of the rear of the user's head. Each rigidizer extends rearward and curves downward and inward to conform to the curvature of the rear of the user's head. The textile sleeve is constrained by the rigidizers so as to be on a bending path defined by the curvature of each rigidizer, and the textile sleeve extends over and along the rigidizers, elastically stretching in the longitudinal direction. The positioning and stabilizing structure further includes a top strap portion constructed and arranged to be connected between the band strap portion and the head-mounted display unit. The top strap portion is aligned with the sagittal plane of the user's head. - the top strap portion is constructed and arranged to pass through an eyelet on the head-mounted display unit and fold back to secure itself; and / or The top strap portion is constructed and arranged to be secured to itself by a hook-and-loop connection.

[0099] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, the head-mounted display system comprising: a head-mounted display unit; and a positioning and stabilizing structure, the head-mounted display unit comprising: a display unit housing having a display; an interface structure connected to the display unit housing and constructed and arranged to engage a user's face in use; the positioning and stabilizing structure is constructed and arranged to hold the head-mounted display unit in an operable position on the user's head in use; a pair of lateral strap portions constructed and arranged to be connected to respective lateral sides of the head-mounted display unit and connected to each other at a rear of the user's head to form a first band portion that partially encircles the user's head; a second band portion that encircles the user's head, the second band portion being connected to the first band portion at a rear region and constructed and arranged to engage the user's head at the rear region and forehead region of the user's head.

[0100] example: The positioning and stabilizing structure includes an adjustment mechanism constructed and arranged to allow a user to selectively adjust the length of the first band portion and the length of the second band portion simultaneously. The adjustment mechanism includes a dial adjustment mechanism, and turning the dial adjusts the lengths of the first band portion and the second band portion. -The dial is positioned in the sagittal plane of the user's head when in use. The positioning and stabilizing structure includes a first adjustment mechanism constructed and arranged to allow a user to selectively adjust the length of the first band portion. The first adjustment mechanism includes a first dial adjustment mechanism including a first dial that, when turned, adjusts the length of the first band portion. The positioning and stabilizing structure includes a second adjustment mechanism constructed and arranged to allow a user to selectively adjust the length of the second band portion. The second adjustment mechanism includes a second dial adjustment mechanism including a second dial that, when turned, adjusts the length of the second band portion. The lateral strap portions, in use, lie on a path that extends rearward and partially downward away from the head-mounted display unit towards a rearward position on the user's head. The head-mounted display unit includes a pair of arms on each lateral side of the head-mounted display unit, the lateral strap portions being constructed and arranged to be attached to the arms. The arm is pivotally attached to the head-mounted display unit. The positioning and stabilizing structure further includes a top strap portion connecting between the second band portion and the head-mounted display unit. The top strap portion is aligned with the sagittal plane of the user's head. - the top strap portion passes through the eyelet on the head-mounted display unit and folds back and secures to itself; and / or The top strap portion is secured to itself by a hook-and-loop connection.

[0101] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, the head-mounted display system comprising: a head-mounted display unit; and a positioning and stabilizing structure, the head-mounted display unit comprising: a display unit housing having a display; an interface structure connected to the display unit housing and constructed and arranged to engage a user's face in use; the positioning and stabilizing structure is constructed and arranged to hold the head-mounted display unit in an operable position on the user's head in use; a first band portion connected to each lateral side of the head-mounted display unit, the first band portion being constructed and arranged to partially encircle the user's head and engage a rear region of the user's head; a second band portion constructed and arranged to encircle a portion of the user's head and engage a posterior region of the user's head and an upper region of the user's head at or near a coronal plane aligned with respective superior ear-base points of the user's head; the first band portion being formed by lateral strap portions connected to each lateral side of the head-mounted display unit in use and positioned on each lateral side of the user's head, the first band portion being further formed by rear strap portions connected to the lateral strap portions and constructed and arranged to engage a rear region of the user's head in use; The second band portion is formed by a rear strap portion and an upper transverse strap portion connected to the rear strap portion and is constructed and arranged to engage the user's head at or near a coronal plane aligned with each superior ear base point.

[0102] example: The second band portion is wider at the top region of the user's head than at the rear region. the lateral strap portions and rear strap portions being integrally formed with one another, the upper transverse strap portions being attached to the first band portion at a rear region on each lateral side of the user's head and including ends extending upwardly and forwardly therefrom; the upper transverse strap portion and the rear strap portion are integrally formed, and the transverse strap portions are each attached to a second band portion near a rear region of the user's head and extend forward therefrom, on each lateral side of the user's head. The lateral strap portions, in use, lie on a path that extends rearward and partially downward away from the head-mounted display unit towards the rear region of the user's head. The length of each lateral strap portion is selectively adjustable. Each lateral strap portion passes through a respective eyelet on the head-mounted display unit and is folded back and secured to itself. Each lateral strap portion is secured to itself by a hook-and-loop connection. The head-mounted display unit includes a pair of arms on each lateral side of the head-mounted display unit, the lateral strap portions being constructed and arranged to be attached to the arms. The arm is pivotally attached to the head-mounted display unit. the positioning and stabilizing structure further includes a top strap portion connecting between the second band portion and the head-mounted display unit; The top strap portion is aligned with the sagittal plane of the user's head. The top strap portion passes through the eyelet on the head-mounted display unit, folds back and fastens to itself. The top strap portion is secured to itself by a hook-and-loop connection.

[0103] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, the head-mounted display system comprising: a head-mounted display unit and a positioning and stabilization structure; a display unit housing having a display; an interface structure connected to the display unit housing and constructed and arranged to engage a user's face in use; the positioning and stabilizing structure is constructed and arranged to hold the head-mounted display unit in an operable position on the user's head in use; a band strap portion constructed and arranged to encircle a portion of the user's head, the band strap portion being formed by a rear strap portion constructed and arranged to engage a rear region of the user's head and an upper transverse strap portion constructed and arranged to engage an upper region of the user's head at or near a coronal plane aligned with respective superior ear base points of the user's head; and a pair of lateral strap portions connecting the band strap portion to each lateral side of the head-mounted display unit, the lateral strap portions being located on a path extending rearward from the head-mounted display unit in use, bending upward to connect to the band strap portion at or near the upper transverse strap portion, the lateral strap portions being stiffened.

[0104] example: The upper transverse strap portion and the rear strap portion are integrally formed. The rear strap portion is constructed and positioned to rest over the occipital bone of the user's head when in use. -The length of the band strap can be selectively adjusted. The band strap portion includes a pair of ends that are connected to each other when in use, one of the pair of ends includes an eyelet, and the other of the pair of ends is threaded through the eyelet and folded back to be secured to itself. The positioning and stabilizing structure includes a counterweight attached to the rear strap portion. The head-mounted display unit includes a pair of arms on each lateral side of the head-mounted display unit, the lateral strap portions being constructed and arranged to be attached to the arms. The arm is pivotally attached to the head-mounted display unit. The positioning and stabilizing structure further includes a top strap portion connecting between the upper transverse strap portion and the head-mounted display unit. The top strap portion is aligned with the sagittal plane of the user's head. - the top strap portion passes through the eyelet on the head-mounted display unit and folds back and secures to itself; and / or The top strap portion is secured to itself by a hook-and-loop connection.

[0105] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, the head-mounted display system comprising: a head-mounted display unit; and a positioning and stabilizing structure, the head-mounted display unit comprising: a display unit housing having a display; an interface structure connected to the display unit housing and constructed and arranged to engage a user's face in use; the positioning and stabilizing structure is constructed and arranged to hold the head-mounted display unit in an operable position on the user's head in use; an upper transverse strap portion constructed and arranged to engage an upper portion of a user's head in use; an occipital strap portion constructed and arranged to engage an area of ​​a user's head over the occipital bone in use; a pair of lateral strap portions each connected to a junction of the upper transverse strap portion and the rear strap portion, the lateral strap portions constructed and arranged to be connected to each lateral side of the head-mounted display unit; Each lateral strap portion is stiffened.

[0106] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning and stabilizing structure for a head-mounted display system, the head-mounted display system including a head-mounted display unit and a positioning and stabilizing structure, the head-mounted display unit including a display unit housing with a display, and further including an interface structure connected to the display unit housing and constructed and arranged to engage a user's face in use, the positioning and stabilizing structure constructed and arranged to hold the head-mounted display unit in an operable position on the user's head in use; an upper transverse strap portion constructed and arranged to engage an upper portion of a user's head in use; an occipital strap portion constructed and arranged to engage an area of ​​a user's head over the occipital bone in use; a pair of lateral strap portions each connected to a junction of the upper transverse strap portion and the rear strap portion, the lateral strap portions constructed and arranged to be connected to each lateral side of the head-mounted display unit; Each lateral strap portion is stiffened.

[0107] example: the upper transverse strap portions are, in use, substantially aligned with a coronal plane of the user's head which is aligned with the respective superior ear-base points of the user's head. The upper transverse strap portion is wider in the sagittal plane of the user's head than near the junction with the occipital strap portion. The lateral strap portions and the upper transverse strap portion are integrally formed. The portion of the upper transverse strap portion near each transverse strap portion is stiffened. The upper transverse strap section is stiffened over its entire length. The positioning and stabilizing structure includes a single rigidizer extending from one lateral strap portion through the upper transverse strap portion to the other lateral strap portion. The area of ​​the occipital strap near each lateral strap is stiffened. The single rigidizer includes rearwardly projecting portions that extend to each end of the rear head strap portion. the occipital strap portion includes an occipital strap connector at one end of the occipital strap portion, the occipital strap connector constructed and arranged to be releasably attached to an occipital strap connection at or near one of the junctions of the occipital strap portion and the upper transverse strap portion. The rear head strap connector is constructed and arranged to be magnetically attached to the rear head strap connection. - The length of the rear strap can be selectively adjusted. The rear strap portion passes through the rear strap connector eyelet and folds back onto itself to secure. The rear strap portion is secured to itself by a hook-and-loop connection. Each lateral strap portion includes an upper transverse strap connection portion connected to an upper transverse strap portion and an occipital strap connection portion connected to an occipital strap portion. Each of the upper transverse strap portion and the occipital strap portion are simultaneously selectively adjustable in length. Each of the lateral strap portions is selectively adjustable in length. Each lateral strap portion passes through a respective eyelet on the head-mounted display unit and is folded back and secured to itself. Each lateral strap portion is secured to itself by a hook-and-loop connection. The lateral strap portions are each constructed and arranged to be attached to a respective one of a pair of arms extending rearward from each lateral side of the display unit housing. the arm is constructed and arranged to be pivotally mounted to the display unit housing; The positioning and stabilizing structure further includes a top strap portion connected to the upper transverse strap portion and constructed and arranged to be connected to the head-mounted display unit. -The length of the top strap is selectively adjustable. -The top strap portion is constructed and positioned to connect to the head-mounted display unit in a single point. The top strap portion is constructed and arranged to pass through an eyelet on the head-mounted display unit and then fold back and secure to itself. The top strap portion is constructed and arranged to be secured to itself by a hook-and-loop connection.

[0108] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, the head-mounted display system comprising: a head-mounted display unit; and a positioning and stabilizing structure, the head-mounted display unit comprising: a display unit housing having a display; an interface structure connected to the display unit housing and constructed and arranged to engage a user's face in use; the positioning and stabilizing structure is constructed and arranged to hold the head-mounted display unit in an operable position on the user's head in use; a first band portion connected to each lateral side of the head mounted display unit, the first band portion constructed and arranged to partially encircle the user's head in use and engage a rear region of the user's head; and a second band portion connected to each lateral side of the head-mounted display unit and constructed and arranged to engage an upper region of a user's head in use.

[0109] example: The second band portion is wider at the top region of the user's head than at the rear region. The first band portion includes a semi-rigid portion constructed and arranged to engage a rear region of a user's head in use. The first band portion is wider at the lateral side regions of the user's head than at the rear region of the user's head. The second band portions extend rearward from each lateral side of the head-mounted display unit and are positioned on a path that curves upwardly to an upper transverse strap portion constructed and arranged to engage an upper region of the user's head. the second band portion includes a pair of substantially rigid portions at respective connections between the second band portion and the lateral sides of the head-mounted display unit; The substantially rigid portion extends rearward from each lateral side of the head mounted display unit and curves upward. The length of the first band portion is selectively adjustable. The length of the second band portion is selectively adjustable. The head-mounted display unit includes a pair of arms extending rearward from each lateral side of the display unit housing. The first band portion is attached to the arm and the second band portion is connected to the first band portion near the arm. The second band portion is attached to the arm, and the first band portion is connected to the second band portion near the arm. The arm is pivotally attached to the display unit housing. The positioning and stabilizing structure further includes a top strap portion connected to the second band portion and constructed and arranged to be connected to the head-mounted display unit. -The length of the top strap is selectively adjustable. -The top strap is connected to the head-mounted display unit at one point. - the top strap portion passes through the eyelet on the head-mounted display unit and folds back and secures to itself; and / or The top strap portion is secured to itself by a hook-and-loop connection.

[0110] In an example of either of the above aspects: the interfacing structure includes a cushion and a face-engaging flange disposed about an eye area of ​​the user's face and configured to engage the user's face in use, the face-engaging flange being flexible and resilient, the face-engaging flange at least partially covering the cushion; and / or the interface structure includes a pair of cheek portions configured to engage the user's cheeks in use, a forehead portion configured to engage the user's forehead in use, and a pair of sphenoid portions located on each lateral side of the interface structure, connecting between the forehead and cheek portions and configured to engage the user's head near the sphenoid bone.

[0111] Another form of the present technology includes a head-mounted display system for a person, the head-mounted display system for a person comprising: a head-mounted display unit having a display; a control system for operating the head-mounted display system; and a positioning and stabilizing structure configured to hold the head-mounted display unit in front of the user's eyes so that, in use, the user can view the display. The positioning and stabilizing structure may be according to any one of the aspects described above.

[0112] The head-mounted display system may be mounted on a helmet and configured for a virtual reality display, an augmented reality display, or a mixed reality display.

[0113] In some examples, a) the head-mounted display device further includes a light shield; b) the light shield is constructed and arranged to substantially block receipt of ambient light into the eye area of ​​the person when in use; c) the light shield is configured for use with a virtual reality display; d) the head-mounted display system includes an interface structure constructed and arranged to contact the eye area of ​​the person's face when in use; e) the interface structure includes foam, silicone, and / or gel; f) the interface structure includes a light-absorbing material; and / or g) the interface structure is configured to function as a light shield.

[0114] In some examples, a) the head-mounted display device further includes a sound system, b) a left-ear transducer, and / or c) a right-ear transducer.

[0115] In some examples, a) the head-mounted display unit includes a binocular display unit, and / or b) the positioning and stabilizing structure is configured to hold the binocular display unit in an operable position during use.

[0116] In some examples, a) the control system includes a visual display controller and at least one battery; b) the at least one battery includes a first battery and a second battery; c) the first battery is a low-power system battery configured to power the RT clock; d) the second battery is a main battery; e) the battery support is configured to hold the battery; f) the battery support is connected to the positioning and stabilizing structure using a tether; g) the orientation sensor is configured to sense an orientation of a person's head during use; and / or h) the control support system.

[0117] In some examples, (a) the positioning and stabilizing structure includes an anterior support portion configured to contact a region of the person's head overlying the frontal bone, and / or (b) the positioning and stabilizing structure includes a length adjustment mechanism for adjusting a length of a portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure.

[0118] Another aspect of one form of the present technology is a positioning and stabilizing structure constructed with a shape complementary to the shape of the intended wearer.

[0119] Another aspect of one form of the present technology is an interface structure constructed with a shape that is complementary to the shape of the intended wearer.

[0120] One aspect of the present technology is a method for manufacturing a device.

[0121] An aspect of certain forms of the technology is a positioning and stabilization structure that is easy to use, for example, for people with limited dexterity or vision, or who have limited experience using head-mounted displays.

[0122] One aspect of certain forms of the technology is an interface structure that is easy to use, for example, for people with limited dexterity or vision, or who have limited experience using head-mounted displays.

[0123] The described methods, systems, devices, and apparatus may be implemented to improve the functionality of head-mounted displays, such as electronic displays or computers. Additionally, the described methods, systems, devices, and apparatus may provide improvements in the fields of virtual reality, augmented reality, and / or mixed reality.

[0124] Of course, some of the aspects may form sub-aspects of the technology, and various of the sub-aspects and / or aspects may be combined in various ways to form additional aspects or sub-aspects of the technology.

[0125] Other features of the technology will become apparent upon consideration of the information contained in the following detailed description, summary, drawings, and claims. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0126] 4 Brief description of the drawings The present technology is illustrated by way of example, and not limitation, in the drawings in which like reference numerals refer to like elements, including the following elements: 4.1 Head-mounted display system

[0127] [Figure 1A] The system is shown to include a user 100 wearing a head-mounted display system 1000 in the form of a face-mounted virtual reality (VR) headset, with various images displayed to the user 100. The user is standing while wearing the head-mounted display system 1000. [Figure 1B] The system includes a user 100 wearing a head-mounted display system 1000 in the form of a floating virtual reality (VR) headset, which displays various images to the user. The user is seated while wearing the display interface 100. [Figure 1C] 4 shows a system including a user 100 wearing a head-mounted display system 1000 in the form of a floating augmented reality (AR) headset, which displays various images to the user. The user is standing while wearing the head-mounted display system 1000. 4.2 Display System and Facial Anatomy [Figure 2A] Shows the human upper respiratory tract, including the nasal cavity, nasal bones, lateral nasal cartilages, alar cartilages, nostrils, upper lip, lower lip, larynx, hard palate, soft palate, oropharynx, tongue, epiglottis, vocal cords, esophagus, and trachea. [Figure 2B] Front view of a face with several surface anatomical features identified, including upper lip, vermilion, vermilion, lower lip, mouth width, medial canthus, alae of the nose, nasolabial folds, and cheilion. Also shown are superior, inferior, radially medial, and radially lateral directions. [Figure 2C] A lateral view of the head with surface anatomical features identified, including the glabella, serrion, nasal tip, subnasal point, upper lip, lower lip, supramenton, nasal ridge, alar crest, superior and inferior ear base points. Also shown are superior and inferior, anterior and posterior directions. [Figure 2D] Another lateral view of the head, showing the approximate location of the Frankfort horizontal and nasolabial angle. The coronal plane is also shown. [Figure 2E] Shown is a diagram of the base of the nose with several features identified, including the nasolabial fold, lower lip, upper lip, nostrils, subnasal point, columella, nasal tip, long axis of the nostrils, and midsagittal plane. [Figure 2F] The surface features of the nose are shown in profile. [Figure 2G] Shows the subcutaneous structures of the nose, including the lateral nasal cartilages, nasal septum cartilage, greater alar cartilage, lesser alar cartilage, sesamoid cartilage, nasal bones, epidermis, adipose tissue, frontal process of the maxilla, and fibro-adipose tissue. [Figure 2H] The medial anatomy of the nose is shown approximately a few millimeters off the midsagittal plane, specifically showing the nasal septum cartilage and the medial crus of the greater alar cartilage. [Figure 2I] Frontal view of the skull, including the frontal, nasal, and cheekbones. The nasal conchae, maxilla, and mandible are also shown. [Figure 2J] Side view of the skull, showing the contours of the head's surface and some muscles. The following bones are shown: frontal, sphenoid, nasal, zygomatic, maxilla, mandible, parietal, temporal, and occipital. The mental protuberance is shown. The following muscles are shown: digastric, masseter, sternocleidomastoid, and trapezius. [Figure 2K] Anterolateral view of the nose is shown. The following bones are visible: frontal bone, supraorbital foramen, nasal bones, nasal septum cartilage, lateral nasal cartilage, orbit, and infraorbital foramen. [Figure 2L] Another frontal view of the face is shown with several surface anatomical features identified, including the skull, sphenoid bone, nasal ridge, lateral and medial cheek regions, zygomatic arch, and apex of the nasal alar. [Figure 2M] Another lateral view of the face is shown, in which several surface anatomical features are identified: the skull, sphenoid bone, nasal ridge, lateral and medial cheek regions, zygomatic arch, and apex of the nose. 4.3 Shape of Structures [Figure 3A] A schematic diagram of a cross section of the structure at a point is shown, with the outward normal of the point indicated. The curvature at the point has a positive sign and is relatively large compared to the magnitude of the curvature shown in Figure 3B. [Figure 3B]A schematic diagram of a cross section of the structure at a point is shown, with the outward normal at that point indicated. The curvature at that point has a positive sign and is relatively small compared to the magnitude of the curvature shown in Figure 3A. [Figure 3C] A schematic diagram of a cross section of a structure at a point is shown, with the outward normal at that point indicated. The curvature at that point is zero. [Figure 3D] A schematic diagram of a cross section of the structure at a point is shown, with the outward normal at that point indicated. The curvature at that point has a negative sign and is relatively small compared to the magnitude of the curvature shown in Figure 3E. [Figure 3E] A schematic diagram of a cross section of the structure at a point is shown, with the outward normal at that point indicated. The curvature at that point has a negative sign and is relatively large compared to the magnitude of the curvature shown in Figure 3D. [Figure 3F] Shown is a structured surface with a one-dimensional hole in the surface. The plane curve shown forms the boundary of the one-dimensional hole. [Figure 3G] 3F shows a cross section of the structure of FIG. 3F. The illustrated surface surrounds a two-dimensional hole in the structure of FIG. 3F. [Figure 3H] 3F, which includes a two-dimensional hole and a one-dimensional hole. Also shown is a surface surrounding the two-dimensional hole in the structure of FIG. 3F. [Figure 3I] Shown is the seal-forming structure. The outer surface of the cushion is shown. The edge of the surface is shown. The path on the surface between points A and B is shown. The linear distance between A and B is shown. Two saddle regions and one dome region are shown. [Figure 3J] 1 shows the seal-forming structure and the outer surface of the cushion. [Figure 3K] Demonstrates the left-hand rule. [Figure 3L] Demonstrates the right-hand rule. [Figure 3M] Shown is the left ear and left ear helix. [Figure 3N] Shown is the right ear and right auricle helix. [Figure 3O]The right ear helix is ​​shown. 4.4 Head-mounted virtual reality display [Figure 4A] 4A and 4B show front and rear perspective views of a head-mounted display interface in accordance with one form of the present technology. [Figure 4B] 4A and 4B show front and rear perspective views of a head-mounted display interface in accordance with one form of the present technology. [Figure 4C] FIG. 4B shows a perspective view of a positioning and stabilization structure used in the head-mounted display of FIG. [Figure 4D] Shown is a frontal view of the user's face, indicating the location of the interface structures in use. 4.5 Head-Mounted Augmented Reality Display [Figure 5A]

[0023] FIG. 1 shows a front perspective view of a head-mounted display interface in accordance with one form of the present technology. [Figure 5B] A side view of the head-mounted display interface of Figure 5A is shown. 4.6 Control [Figure 6] A schematic diagram of the control system of one form of the present technology is shown. 4.7 Positioning and Stabilizing Structures [Figure 7A]

[0041] Fig. 12 is a posterolateral perspective view of a positioning and stabilizing structure in accordance with an example of the present technology. [Figure 7B] 7B is a side view of a head-mounted display system with the positioning and stabilizing structure of FIG. 7A worn by a user. [Figure 8A] FIG. 13 is an anterior-lateral view of a positioning and stabilizing structure in accordance with another example of the present technology. [Figure 8B] 8B is a side view of a head-mounted display system including the positioning and stabilizing structure of FIG. 8A, shown worn by a user. [Figure 8C] FIG. 10 is a side view of a head-mounted display system worn by a user and including a positioning and stabilization structure in accordance with another example of the present technology. [Figure 8D]FIG. 10 is a side view of a head-mounted display system worn by a user and including a positioning and stabilization structure in accordance with another example of the present technology. [Figure 8E] FIG. 10 is a side view of a head-mounted display system worn by a user and including a positioning and stabilization structure in accordance with another example of the present technology. [Figure 8F] FIG. 14 is a posterolateral perspective view of a positioning and stabilizing structure in accordance with another example of the present technology. [Figure 8F-1] FIG. 8F is a cross-sectional view taken along line 8F-1-8F-1 of FIG. 8F. [Figure 8G] FIG. 8F is a side view of the positioning and stabilizing structure of FIG. 8F. [Figure 8H] FIG. 8F is a rear view of the positioning and stabilizing structure of FIG. 8F. [Figure 8I] FIG. 8F is a partially assembled plan view of the positioning and stabilizing structure of FIG. 8F. [Figure 8J] FIG. 8F is a detailed view of the joint of the positioning and stabilizing structure of FIG. 8F. [Figure 8K] FIG. 134 is a cross section of a strap portion of a positioning and stabilizing structure in accordance with another example of the present technology. [Figure 8L] FIG. 134 is a cross section of a strap portion of a positioning and stabilizing structure in accordance with another example of the present technology. [Figure 8M] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an arm of a head-mounted display system according to another example of the present technology. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a posterolateral view of a positioning and stabilizing structure in accordance with another example of the present technology. [Figure 10A] FIG. 10 is a side view of a head-mounted display system worn by a user and including a positioning and stabilization structure in accordance with another example of the present technology. [Figure 10B] FIG. 10 is a side view of a head-mounted display system worn by a user and including a positioning and stabilization structure in accordance with another example of the present technology. [Figure 10B-1] FIG. 10B is an enlarged detail of FIG. [Figure 11A]FIG. 10 is a side view of a head-mounted display system worn by a user in a viewing position, including a positioning and stabilization structure in accordance with another example of the present technology. [Figure 11A-1] FIG. 11B is a side view of a head-mounted display system in a non-viewing position, including a positioning and stabilizing structure according to the example of FIG. 11A. [Figure 11B] FIG. 10 is a side view of a head-mounted display system worn by a user and including a positioning and stabilization structure in accordance with another example of the present technology. [Figure 12A] FIG. 10 is a side view of a head-mounted display system worn by a user and including a positioning and stabilization structure in accordance with another example of the present technology. [Figure 12A-1] FIG. 12B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 12A-1-12A-1 of FIG. 12A. [Figure 12B] FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of a head-mounted display system worn by a user and including a positioning and stabilization structure in accordance with another example of the present technology. [Figure 12C] FIG. 12C is a schematic plan view of the head-mounted display system shown in FIG. 12B. [Figure 12D] FIG. 10 is a side view of a head-mounted display system worn by a user and including a positioning and stabilization structure in accordance with another example of the present technology. [Figure 12E] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a head-mounted display system including a positioning and stabilizing structure in accordance with another example of the present technology; [Figure 12F] FIG. 10 is a side view of a head-mounted display system worn by a user and including a positioning and stabilization structure in accordance with another example of the present technology. [Figure 12G] FIG. 12F is a perspective view of the head-mounted display system shown in FIG. 12F. [Figure 12H] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a head-mounted display system including a positioning and stabilizing structure in accordance with another example of the present technology; [Figure 12I] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a head-mounted display system including a positioning and stabilizing structure in accordance with another example of the present technology; [Figure 12J]FIG. 10 is a side view of a head-mounted display system including a positioning and stabilizing structure in accordance with another example of the present technology. [Figure 12K] FIG. 12K is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line 12K-12K shown in FIG. 12J. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a side view of a head-mounted display system worn by a user and including a positioning and stabilization structure in accordance with another example of the present technology. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a side view of a head-mounted display system worn by a user and including a positioning and stabilization structure in accordance with another example of the present technology. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a side view of a head-mounted display system worn by a user and including a positioning and stabilization structure in accordance with another example of the present technology. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a side view of a head-mounted display system worn by a user and including a positioning and stabilization structure in accordance with another example of the present technology. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a side view of a head-mounted display system worn by a user and including a positioning and stabilization structure in accordance with another example of the present technology. [Figure 18A] FIG. 10 is a side view of a head-mounted display system worn by a user and including a positioning and stabilization structure in accordance with another example of the present technology. [Figure 18B] FIG. 10 is a side view of a head-mounted display system worn by a user and including a positioning and stabilization structure in accordance with another example of the present technology. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a side view of a head-mounted display system worn by a user and including a positioning and stabilization structure in accordance with another example of the present technology. [Figure 20A] FIG. 10 is a side view of a head-mounted display system worn by a user and including a positioning and stabilization structure in accordance with another example of the present technology. [Figure 20B] FIG. 10 is a side view of a head-mounted display system worn by a user and including a positioning and stabilization structure in accordance with another example of the present technology. [Figure 20C] FIG. 10 is a side view of a head-mounted display system worn by a user and including a positioning and stabilization structure according to another example of the present technology. [Figure 20C-1] FIG. 20D is a schematic diagram showing a part of the positioning and stabilizing structure according to FIG. 20C DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0128] 5. MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Before describing the present technology in further detail, it is to be understood that the present technology is not limited to particular examples described herein, as such may vary, and it is also to be understood that the terminology used in this disclosure is for the purpose of describing only the particular examples described herein, and is not intended to be limiting.

[0129] The following description is provided in connection with various examples that may share one or more common characteristics and / or features. It should be understood that one or more features of any one example may be combined with one or more features of another example or the other examples. In addition, any single feature or combination of features in any example may constitute an additional example.

[0130] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the drawings, which form a part hereof. The exemplary embodiments described in the detailed description, illustrated in the drawings, and defined in the claims are not intended to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the presented subject matter. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein and illustrated in the drawings, can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are contemplated by the present disclosure. 5.1 Immersive Technology

[0131] Immersive technologies may present a user with a combination of a virtual environment and the user's physical environment, i.e., the real world, and the user may interact with the resulting immersive or mixed reality.

[0132] The device immerses the user by augmenting or replacing stimuli associated with one of the user's five senses with virtual stimuli. Typically, this is a virtual stimulus, but there may also be additional stimuli that augment or replace stimuli associated with one of four additional senses.

[0133] In some forms, certain immersive technologies may present a user with a combination of a virtual environment and the user's environment. At least a portion of the resulting environment may include the virtual environment. In some instances, the resulting environment may be entirely virtual (i.e., the user's environment may be blocked or otherwise obstructed from view). In other forms, at least a portion of the user's physical environment may be visually observable.

[0134] In some embodiments, a user may use various types of immersive technology, including, but not limited to, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), mixed reality (MR), etc. Each type of immersive technology may present the user with a different environment and a different way of interacting with the environment.

[0135] In some embodiments, a display system may be used with each type of immersive technology. The display screen of the display system may provide the virtual environment component for a combined environment (i.e., a combination of the virtual environment and the user environment). In certain embodiments, the display screen may be an electronic screen.

[0136] In at least some types of immersive technologies (e.g., VR, AR, MR, etc.), the positioning and stabilization of the electronic screen may contribute to the operation of the respective device. For example, a user may want to position the electronic screen near the eyes for easy viewing, but far enough away to avoid discomfort. Furthermore, the electronic screen may need to be positioned far enough away so that the user can simultaneously wear corrective lenses, such as eyeglasses. In addition, the user may seek to maintain the orientation of the electronic screen relative to their eyes. In other words, a user who walks or otherwise moves while using these devices may not want the device to bounce or move on their head (e.g., particularly relative to their eyes), as this could cause dizziness or discomfort to the user. Therefore, these devices may be supported to fit snugly against the user's head to limit relative movement between the user's eyes and the device.

[0137] In one form, the technology includes a method of using a VR device, including supporting the device on a user's head near at least one of the user's eyes and within the user's line of sight.

[0138] In a particular example of the present technology, a head-mounted display unit is supported in front of a user's eyes and blocks, obstructs, and / or limits ambient light from reaching the user's eyes.

[0139] Features disclosed below in the context of devices configured for VR shall be understood to be applicable to devices configured for AR, unless the context clearly requires otherwise. Similarly, features disclosed below in the context of devices configured for AR shall be understood to be applicable to devices configured for VR, unless the context clearly requires otherwise. For the avoidance of doubt, features disclosed in the context of devices that do not include a transparent display through which a user can view the real world shall be understood to be applicable to devices with such a transparent display, unless the context clearly requires otherwise. Similarly, features disclosed in the context of devices that include a transparent display through which the real world can be viewed shall be understood to be applicable to devices where the display is electronic and the real world cannot be viewed directly through the transparent material. 5.2 Virtual reality display system

[0140] 4A and 4B , a display device, display system, display interface, or head-mounted display system 1000 according to one embodiment of the present technology includes the following functional aspects: an interface structure 1100, a head-mounted display unit 1200, and a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. In some embodiments, the functional aspects may provide one or more physical components. In some embodiments, one or more physical components may provide one or more functional aspects. Head-mounted display unit 1200 may include a display. In use, head-mounted display unit 1200 is positioned near and in front of a user's eyes so that the user can view the display.

[0141] In other embodiments, head-mounted display system 1000 may also include a display unit housing 1205, optical lenses 1240, a controller 1270, a speaker 1272, a power supply 1274, and / or a control system 1276. In some examples, these may be integral parts of head-mounted display system 1000, while in other examples, they may be modular and incorporated into head-mounted display system 1000 as desired by the user. 5.2.1 Head-mounted display unit

[0142] Head-mounted display unit 1200 may include structure for providing a viewable output to a user. Specifically, head-mounted display unit 1200 may be positioned to be held in an operable position in front of the user's face (e.g., manually, by positioning and stabilizing structure, etc.).

[0143] In some examples, head-mounted display unit 1200 may include display screen 1220, display unit housing 1205, interface structure 1100, and / or optical lens 1240. These components may be permanently assembled into a single head-mounted display unit 1200 or may be separable and selectively connected by a user to form head-mounted display unit 1200. Additionally, display screen 1220, display unit housing 1205, interface structure 1100, and / or optical lens 1240 may be included in head-mounted display system 1000 but may not be part of head-mounted display unit 1200. 5.2.1.1 Display Screen

[0144] Some forms of head-mounted display unit 1200 include a display, e.g., a display screen, not shown in FIG. 4B, provided within display housing 1205. The display screen may include electrical components that provide a viewable output to a user.

[0145] In one form of the present technology, a display screen provides a light output observable by a user that allows the user to observe the virtual environment and / or virtual objects.

[0146] The display screen may be positioned near the user's eyes so that the user can see it, for example, the display screen may be positioned in front of the user's eyes, and the display screen may output computer-generated images or a virtual environment.

[0147] In some embodiments, the display screen is an electronic display. The display screen may be a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a light emitting diode (LED) screen.

[0148] In certain embodiments, the display screen may include a backlight, which may help to illuminate the display screen, which may be particularly helpful when the display screen is viewed in a dark environment.

[0149] In some forms, the display screen may be wider than the distance between the user's pupils. The display screen may be wider than the distance between the user's cheeks.

[0150] In some embodiments, the display screen may display at least one image viewable by a user, for example, the display screen may display an image that changes based on a predetermined condition (e.g., the passage of time, user movement, input from a user, etc.).

[0151] In certain configurations, a portion of the display screen may be visible to only one of the user's eyes, i.e., a portion of the display screen may be located in close proximity to and in front of only one of the user's eyes (e.g., the right eye) and may be hidden from the other eye (e.g., the left eye).

[0152] In one example, the display screen may be split into two sides (eg, left and right sides) and two images may be displayed at a time (eg, one image on each side).

[0153] Similar images may be displayed on each side of the display screen. In some instances, the images may be identical, while in other instances, the images may be slightly different.

[0154] Combining the two images on the display screen may form a binocular display, which may provide a more realistic VR experience to the user. In other words, the user's brain may process the two images from the display screen 1220 as one image. By providing two (e.g., non-identical) images, the user may view virtual objects around them and expand their field of view within the virtual environment.

[0155] In certain configurations, the display screen may be positioned so that it is visible to both eyes of the user. The display screen may output one image at a time, which can be viewed by both eyes, potentially simplifying processing compared to a multi-image display screen. 5.2.1.2 Display housing

[0156] 4A and 4B , in some forms of the present technology, the display unit housing 1205 provides a support structure for the display screen to maintain the position of at least some components of the display screen relative to one another and may further protect the display screen and / or other components of the head-mounted display unit 1200. The display unit housing 1205 may include a material suitable for protecting against impact forces to the display screen. The display unit housing 1205 may contact the user's face and may include a biocompatible material suitable for limiting irritation to the user.

[0157] A display unit housing 1205 according to some forms of the present technology may comprise a hard, rigid, or semi-rigid material such as plastic.

[0158] In certain forms, the rigid or semi-rigid material may be at least partially covered with a soft and / or flexible material (e.g., textile, silicone, etc.), which may improve biocompatibility and / or user comfort because at least the portion of the display unit housing 1205 that the user manipulates (e.g., grasps with the hand) comprises a soft and / or flexible material.

[0159] A display unit housing 1205 according to other forms of the present technology may comprise a soft, flexible, and resilient material such as silicone rubber.

[0160] In some forms, the display unit housing 1205 may have a substantially rectangular or substantially oval profile. The display unit housing 1205 may have a three-dimensional shape with a substantially rectangular or substantially oval profile.

[0161] In certain forms, the display unit housing 1205 may include a top surface 1230, a bottom surface 1232, a left side surface 1234, a right side surface 1236, and a front surface 1238. The display screen 1220 is held in place during use.

[0162] In certain configurations, the upper surface 1230 and the lower surface 1232 may have substantially the same shape.

[0163] In one form, the upper surface 1230 and lower surface 1232 may be substantially flat and extend along parallel planes (eg, substantially parallel to the Frankfort Horizontal when in use).

[0164] In certain configurations, the outer left surface 1234 and the outer right surface 1236 may be substantially the same shape.

[0165] In one form, outer left surface 1234 and outer right surface 1236 may be curved and / or rounded between upper surface 1230 and lower surface 1232. The rounded and / or curved surfaces 1234, 1236 may be comfortable for a user to grasp and hold when donning and / or doffing head-mounted display system 1000.

[0166] In certain forms, the front surface 1238 may extend between the upper surface 1230 and the lower surface 1232. The front surface 1238 may form the front of the head mounted display system 1000.

[0167] In one form, the front surface 1238 may be a substantially planar surface and may be substantially parallel to the coronal plane while the head-mounted display system 1000 is worn by a user.

[0168] In one form, the front surface 1238 may not have a corresponding opposing surface (e.g., a rear surface) that is substantially the same shape as the front surface 1238. The rear of the display unit housing 1205 may be at least partially open (e.g., recessed forward) to accommodate the user's face.

[0169] In some forms, the display screen is permanently integrated into the head-mounted display system 1000. The display screen may also be a device that is only usable as part of the head-mounted display system 1000.

[0170] In some forms, the display unit housing 1205 may surround the display screen, which may protect the display screen and / or limit user interference with (e.g., movement and / or damage to) components of the display screen.

[0171] In certain forms, the display screen may be substantially sealed within the display unit housing 1205 to limit the collection of dirt and other debris on the surface of the display screen, which may adversely affect a user's ability to view images output by the display screen. Because the display screen cannot be removed from the display unit housing 1205, a user may not need to break a seal to access the display screen.

[0172] In some forms, the display screen is removably incorporated into head-mounted display system 1000. The display screen may also be a device that can be used independently of the overall head-mounted display system 1000. For example, the display screen may be provided on a smartphone or other portable electronic device.

[0173] In some forms, the display unit housing 1205 may include a compartment. A portion of the display screen may be removably storable within the compartment. For example, a user may removably position the display screen within the compartment. This may be convenient if the display screen performs additional functions outside of the head-mounted display unit 1200 (e.g., in the case of a portable electronic device such as a mobile phone). Additionally, removing the display screen from the display unit housing 1205 may facilitate a user's cleaning or replacement of the display screen.

[0174] Certain forms of the display housing include an opening into the compartment to allow a user to more easily insert and remove the display screen from the compartment. The display screen may be retained within the compartment by a frictional engagement.

[0175] In certain configurations, a cover may selectively cover the compartment and may provide additional protection and / or security for the display screen 1220 while located within the compartment.

[0176] In certain configurations, the compartment may be open at the top. While display interface 1000 is being worn by a user, the display screen may be inserted into the compartment in a substantially vertical orientation. 5.2.1.3 Interface Structure

[0177] As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, some forms of the present technology include an interface structure 1100 positioned and / or arranged to conform to the shape of the user's face, which may provide added comfort to the user when wearing and / or using the head-mounted display system 1000.

[0178] In some forms, the interface structure 1100 is coupled to a surface of the display unit housing 1205 .

[0179] In some forms, the interface structure 1100 may extend at least partially around the display unit housing 1205 and may form a viewing opening. The viewing opening may at least partially accommodate a user's face during use. Specifically, the user's eyes may be accommodated within the viewing opening formed by the interface structure 1100.

[0180] In some forms, an interface structure 1100 in accordance with the present technology may include a biocompatible material.

[0181] In some forms, an interface structure 1100 in accordance with the present technology may comprise a soft, flexible, and / or resilient material.

[0182] In certain configurations, an interface structure 1100 in accordance with the present technology may include silicone rubber and / or foam.

[0183] In some forms, interface structure 1100 may contact sensitive areas of the user's face, which may be a site of discomfort. The material forming interface structure 1100 may cushion these sensitive areas, potentially limiting the user's discomfort while wearing head-mounted display system 1000.

[0184] In certain embodiments, these sensitive areas may include the user's forehead. Specifically, this may include areas of the user's head near the frontal bone, such as the inner brow bone and glabella. This area may be sensitive due to limited natural cushioning from muscle and fat between the user's skin and bone. Similarly, the user's nasal ridge may also have little or no natural cushioning.

[0185] In some forms, the interfacing structure 1100 may comprise a single element. In some embodiments, the interfacing structure 1100 may be designed for mass production. For example, the interfacing structure 1100 may be designed to fit comfortably on a variety of face shapes and sizes.

[0186] In some forms, the interfacing structure 1100 may include different elements that cover different areas of the user's face. Different portions of the interfacing structure 1100 may include different materials, providing the user with different textures and / or cushioning in different areas. 5.2.1.3.1 Light shield

[0187] Some forms of head-mounted display system 1000 may be made of an opaque material and may include a light shield that blocks ambient light from reaching the user's eyes. The light shield may be part of interface structure 1100 or may be a separate element. In some examples, interface structure 1100 may form a light shield by shielding the user's eyes from ambient light in addition to providing a comfortable contact area for contact between head-mounted display 1200 and the user's face. In some examples, multiple components may work together to block ambient light and form the light shield.

[0188] In certain forms, the light shield can block ambient light from reaching the eye area, which is formed by the skull, the user's sphenoid bone, the lateral cheek area between the sphenoid bone and the left or right zygomatic arch, above the zygomatic arch, the medial cheek area from the zygomatic arch toward the tip of the alar, and the nasal ridge below the serion, surrounding a portion of the user's face in between.

[0189] In one form, the light shield may not contact the user's face along its entire periphery. For example, the light shield may be spaced apart from the user's nasal ridge. The width of this space may be substantially small so as to substantially limit the intrusion of ambient light. However, the user's nasal ridge may be sensitive and easily irritated. Therefore, avoiding direct contact with the user's nasal ridge may improve the user's comfort while wearing the head-mounted display system 1000.

[0190] In certain forms, the light shield may be part of the display unit housing 1205 and may be integrally or removably coupled to the display unit housing 1205. In one form, if the display unit housing 1205 is usable with a display screen that outputs AR or MR and VR, the light shield is detachable from the display unit housing 1205 and is coupled to the display unit housing 1205 only while the VR is being used. 5.2.1.3.1.1 Seal formation structure

[0191] 4D , in one form of the present technology, the interface structure 1100 functions as a seal-forming structure and provides a target seal-forming area. The target seal-forming area is an area on the seal-forming structure where a seal may form. The area where the seal actually occurs, i.e., the actual sealing surface, may vary within a particular session, from day to day, and from user to user, depending on a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, where the display unit housing 1205 is positioned on the face, the tension of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, and / or the shape of the user's face.

[0192] In one form, the target seal-forming region is located on an outer surface of the interface structure 1100 .

[0193] In some forms, the light shield forms a seal-forming structure to seal against the user's face.

[0194] In certain forms, the entire periphery of the light shield or interface structure 1100 may seal against the user's skin, blocking ambient light from reaching the eye area. The eye area may be formed in the area of ​​the user's skull at the sphenoid bone, the outer cheek area between the sphenoid bone and the left or right zygomatic arch, above the zygomatic arch, the inner cheek area from the zygomatic arch toward the tip of the alar, and on the nasal ridge below the user's selion, encircling portions of the user's face in between.

[0195] When functioning as a seal-forming structure, the light shield or interface structure 1100 may contact sensitive areas of the user's face, such as the user's nasal ridge. This contact may completely block the intrusion of ambient light. Sealing the entire perimeter of the display unit housing 1205 improves the performance of the head-mounted display system 1000. Furthermore, biocompatible materials may be selected such that direct contact with the user's nasal ridge does not significantly reduce user comfort while wearing the head-mounted display system 1000.

[0196] In certain forms of the present technology, a system is provided that includes multiple interface structures 1100, each configured to accommodate a range of different sizes and / or shapes. For example, the system may include one form of interface structure 1100 that is suitable for large head sizes but not for small head sizes, and another form that is suitable for small head sizes but not for large head sizes. The different interface structures 1100 are removable and interchangeable so that different users with different head sizes may use the same head-mounted display system 1000.

[0197] In some forms, the seal-forming structure may be formed in the region of the user's skull that is the sphenoid bone, the lateral cheek region between the sphenoid bone and the left or right zygomatic arch, above the zygomatic arch, the medial cheek region from the zygomatic arch toward the tip of the alar, and on the user's nasal ridge below the sphenoid bone, surrounding a portion of the user's face in between. This defined region may be the eye region.

[0198] In certain forms, this may create a seal around the user's eyes. The seal created by the seal-forming structure or interfacing structure 1100 may create a light seal to limit ambient light from reaching the user's eyes. 5.2.1.3.2 Biocompatibility of materials

[0199] Biocompatible materials are considered to be those that undergo a full evaluation of biological responses relevant to safety during use, in accordance with ISO 10993-1. The evaluation takes into account the nature and duration of expected contact with human tissue during use. In some conventional technologies, materials used in positioning and stabilizing structures and interface structures may undergo at least some of the following biocompatibility tests: Cytotoxicity - Elution Test (MeM Extract): ANSI / AAMI / ISO 10993-5; Skin Sensitization: ISO 10993-10; Irritation: ISO 10993-10; Genotoxicity - Bacterial Mutagenicity: ISO 10993-3; Implantation: ISO 10993-6. 5.2.1.4 Optical lenses

[0200] 4B, at least one lens 1240 may be positioned between the user's eyes and the display screen 1220. The user may view the image provided by the display screen 1220 through the lens 1240. The at least one lens 1240 may help distance the display screen 1220 from the user's face, reducing eye strain. The at least one lens 1240 may also help better observe the image displayed by the display screen 1220.

[0201] In some embodiments, the lens 1240 is a Fresnel lens.

[0202] In some forms, the lens 1240 may have a substantially frustoconical shape. In use, the wide end of the lens 1240 may be positioned near the display screen 1220 and the narrow end of the lens 1240 may be positioned near the user's eyes.

[0203] In some forms, the lens 1240 may have a substantially cylindrical shape and, in use, may have substantially the same width near the display screen 1220 as near the user's eyes.

[0204] In some forms, at least one lens 1240 may magnify the image on the display screen 1220 to help the user view the image.

[0205] In some forms, the head-mounted display system 1000 includes two lenses 1240 (e.g., a binocular display), one for each of the user's eyes. In other words, each of the user's eyes may view through a separate lens positioned in front of each pupil. Each lens 1240 may be identical, although in some examples, one lens 1240 may be different from the other lens 1240 (e.g., have a different magnification).

[0206] In certain embodiments, the display screen 1220 may output two images simultaneously. Each eye of the user can only see one of the two images. The images may be displayed side-by-side on the display screen 1220. Each lens 1240 allows each eye to see only the image that is closest to it. The user may view the two images together as a single image.

[0207] In some forms, the rear perimeter of each lens 1240 may be approximately the size of the user's eye socket. The rear perimeter may be slightly larger than the size of the user's eye socket so that the user's entire eye can see through each lens 1240. For example, the outer edge of each lens 1240 may be aligned superiorly (e.g., near the user's eyebrows) with the user's frontal bone and inferiorly (e.g., near the outer cheek area) with the user's upper jaw.

[0208] By positioning and / or sizing the lenses 1240, the user may have approximately 360° peripheral vision within the virtual environment to closely simulate a physical environment.

[0209] In some forms, the head-mounted display system 1000 includes a single lens 1240 (e.g., a monocular display, etc.). The lens 1240 may be located in front of both eyes (e.g., so that both eyes can view the image from the display screen 1220 through the lens 1240), or may be located in front of only one eye (e.g., when the image from the display screen 1220 can be viewed by only one eye). 5.2.1.4.1 Lens Mount

[0210] The lens 1240 may be coupled to a spacer located near the display screen 1220 (e.g., between the display screen 1220 and the interface structure 1100), thereby preventing the lens 1240 from coming into direct contact with the display screen 1220 (e.g., to prevent the lens 1240 from scratching the display screen 1220).

[0211] For example, the lenses 1240 may be recessed relative to the interface structure 1100, such that the lenses 1240 are positioned within the viewing openings. In use, while the user's face is positioned within the viewing openings (e.g., in the operable position), each of the user's eyes is aligned with a respective lens 1240.

[0212] In some forms, the periphery of the front surface of each lens 1240 may encompass approximately half of the display screen 1220. Along the centerline of the display screen 1220, there may be a fairly small gap between the two lenses 1240. This may allow a user looking through both lenses 1240 to see nearly the entire display screen 1220 and all of the image being output to the user.

[0213] In certain embodiments, an image may not be output in the center of the display screen 1220 (e.g., along the centerline between the two lenses 1240). For example, in a binocular display (e.g., where each side of the display screen 1220 outputs substantially the same image), the images may be spaced apart on the display screen 1220. This allows the two lenses 1240 to be located in close proximity to the display screen 1220 and still allow the user to view the entire image displayed on the display screen 1220.

[0214] In some forms, a protective layer 1242 may be formed around at least a portion of the lens 1240. In use, the protective layer 1242 may be positioned between the user's face and the display screen 1220.

[0215] In some forms, a portion of each lens 1240 may protrude rearward through the protective layer 1242. For example, in use, a narrow end of each lens 1240 may protrude rearward beyond the protective layer 1242.

[0216] In some forms, the protective layer 1242 may be opaque and not allow light from the display screen 1220 to pass through. Additionally, a user may be required to look through the lens 1240 to see the display screen 1220.

[0217] In some forms, the protective layer 1242 may be non-planar and may include a contour that substantially matches the contours of the user's face. For example, a portion of the protective layer 1242 may be recessed forward to fit over the user's nose.

[0218] In certain forms, the user may not need to touch protective layer 1242 while wearing head-mounted display system 1000. This may reduce irritation from additional contact with the user's face (e.g., sensitive nasal ridges, etc.). 5.2.1.4.2 Corrective lenses

[0219] In some examples, an additional lens may be coupled to lens 1240, allowing a user to look through both lens 1240 and the additional lens to view the image output by display screen 1220.

[0220] In some forms, in use, the additional lens is positioned behind lens 1240. Thus, the additional lens is positioned near the user's eyes, and the user looks through the additional lens before looking through lens 1240.

[0221] In some embodiments, the additional lens may have a different magnification than lens 1240.

[0222] In some forms, the additional lenses may be prescription strength lenses that allow the user to view the display screen 1220 without eyeglasses that may be uncomfortable to wear while using the head-mounted display system 1000. The additional lenses are removable, allowing users who do not need the additional lenses to clearly view the display screen 1220. 5.2.2 Positioning and stabilizing structures

[0223] As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the display screen 1220 and / or display unit housing 1205 of the head-mounted display system 1000 of the present technology may be held in place during use by a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300.

[0224] To hold the display screen 1220 and / or display unit housing 1205 in a correct and operable position, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 must be ideally comfortable against the user's head, accommodating the load of the display unit's weight and minimizing facial imprints and pain from prolonged use. It must also enable a universal fit without sacrificing comfort, ease of use, or manufacturing cost. Design criteria may include a low dexterity threshold, a range of adjustability with a simple, low-touch setup solution, and other factors. Further considerations include accommodating dynamic environments in which the head-mounted display system 1000 may be used. As part of an immersive experience of a virtual environment, a user may communicate, i.e., converse, while using the head-mounted display system 1000. In this manner, the user's jaw or mandible may move relative to the other bones of the skull. Furthermore, the entire head may move during use of the head-mounted display system 1000, including movement of the user's upper body and possibly lower body, particularly movement of the head relative to the upper and lower body.

[0225] In one form, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 provides a holding force to overcome the effects of gravity on the display screen 1220 and / or display unit housing 1205.

[0226] In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is provided that is configured to be comfortable for a user to wear. In one example, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 has a low profile, or cross-sectional thickness, to reduce the apparent or actual bulk of the device. In one example, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes at least one strap with a rectangular cross-section. In one example, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes at least one flat strap.

[0227] In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is provided that is configured to be not so large and bulky as to prevent the user from moving their head from side to side comfortably.

[0228] In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes a strap including a laminate of a textile user-contacting layer, a foam inner layer, and a textile outer layer. In one form, the foam is porous, allowing moisture (e.g., sweat, etc.) to pass through the strap. In one form, the skin-contacting layer of the strap is formed of a material that contributes to wicking moisture away from the user's face. In one form, the textile outer layer includes a loop material that engages with a hook material portion.

[0229] In a particular form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes a stretchable, e.g., elastically stretchable, strap. For example, the strap may be configured to be tensioned in use and to direct a force that pulls the display screen 1220 and / or display unit housing 1205 toward a portion of the user's face, particularly near the user's eyes and along their field of view. In one example, the strap may be configured as a tie.

[0230] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes a first tie that is constructed and arranged such that, in use, at least a portion of its lower edge passes above the superior auricular point of the user's head and covers a portion of the parietal bone without covering the occipital bone.

[0231] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes a second tie that is constructed and arranged such that, in use, at least a portion of its upper edge passes below the base of the ear on the underside of the user's head and overlaps or lies below the occipital bone of the user's head.

[0232] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes a third tie interconnecting the first tie and the second tie constructed and arranged to reduce the tendency of the first tie and the second tie to move away from each other.

[0233] In a particular form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes a bendable, e.g., non-rigid, strap. The advantage of this embodiment is that the strap is more comfortable against the user's head.

[0234] In a particular form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes straps configured to be breathable to allow moisture vapor to pass through the straps.

[0235] In certain forms of the present technology, a system is provided that includes multiple positioning and stabilizing structures 1300, each configured to provide a holding force corresponding to a range of different sizes and / or shapes. For example, the system may include one form of positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 that is suitable for large head sizes but not for small head sizes, and another form that is suitable for small heads but not for large heads.

[0236] In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include cushioning (e.g., foam padding, etc.) for contacting the user's skin. The cushioning may further increase the wear resistance of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, especially if the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes a rigid or semi-rigid material. 5.2.2.1 Temporal Connector

[0237] As shown in FIG. 4C , some forms of head-mounted display system 1000 or positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 include temporal connectors 1250, each of which may overlap a respective one of the user's temporal bones during use. A portion of temporal connector 1250 during use contacts a region of the user's head near the supra-aural point, i.e., above the user's ears. In some examples, the temporal connectors are strap portions of positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. In other examples, the temporal connectors are arms of head-mounted display unit 1200. In some examples, the temporal connectors of head-mounted display system 1000 may be formed in part by strap portions (e.g., lateral strap portions 1330) of positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and in part by arms 1210 of head-mounted display unit 1200.

[0238] Each temporal connector 1250 may be a lateral portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, as each temporal connector 1250 is positioned on either the left or right side of the user's head.

[0239] In some forms, the temporal connector 1250 may extend in the anterior-posterior direction and be substantially parallel to the sagittal plane.

[0240] In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may be coupled to the display unit housing 1205. For example, the temporal connectors 1250 may be connected to lateral sides of the display unit housing 1205. For example, each temporal connector 1250 may be coupled to each of the left lateral side 1234 and the right lateral side 1236.

[0241] In certain forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may be pivotally connected to the display unit housing 1205 to provide for relative rotation between each temporal connector 1250 and the display unit housing 1205 .

[0242] In certain forms, the temporal connector 1250 may be removably connected to the display unit housing 1205 (eg, via magnets, mechanical fasteners, hook-and-loop material, etc.).

[0243] In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may be positioned above the cheekbones (e.g., above the cheekbones of a user) in use, generally along or parallel to the Frankfort horizontal of the head.

[0244] In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may sit against the user's head similar to the temples of eyeglasses, and may be located above the antihelix of each ear.

[0245] In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may have a generally elongated and flat configuration. In other words, each temporal connector 1250 is much longer and wider (into the plane of the page) than it is thick (into the plane of the page).

[0246] In some forms, each temporal connector 1250 may have a three-dimensional shape with curvature in all three axes (X, Y, Z). The thickness of each temporal connector 1250 is generally uniform, but its height may vary throughout its length. The shape and dimensions of each temporal connector 1250 are intended to fit snugly on the user's head while being unobtrusive and low-profile (i.e., not appearing excessively bulky).

[0247] In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may comprise a rigid or semi-rigid material, including plastic, Hytrel (a thermoplastic polyester elastomer), or other similar materials. The rigid or semi-rigid material may be self-supporting or retain its shape without wear. This may make use of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 more intuitive or obvious to the user, as opposed to a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 that is completely flexible and does not retain its shape. Maintaining the temporal connectors 1250 in an in-use state prior to use prevents or limits distortion while the user is wearing the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and allows the user to quickly fit or don the head-mounted display system 1000.

[0248] In certain forms, the temporal connector 1250 may be a rigidizer, which may limit the amount of extension or deformation of the arms during use, thereby allowing for more effective (e.g., direct) transmission of tension through the temporal connector 1250.

[0249] In certain forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may be designed to be in a generally in-use configuration when removed from the box. Additionally, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may be configured to retain its in-use shape after removal from the box (e.g., rigidizers may be formed to maintain the shape of portions of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300). Advantageously, the shape of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 curves approximately like the back of the user's head, so that the orientation of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is clearly indicated to the user. That is, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is generally dome-shaped.

[0250] In certain forms, a flexible and / or elastic material may be disposed around the rigid or semi-rigid material of the temporal connectors 1250. The flexible material may be more comfortable against the user's head to improve wearability and provide soft contact with the user's face. In one form, the flexible material is a textile sleeve permanently or removably coupled to each temporal connector 1250.

[0251] In one form, the textile may be overmolded onto at least one side of the rigidizer. In one form, the rigidizer may be formed separately from the elastic component, and then a sock of user-contacting material (e.g., Breath-O-Prene®) may be wrapped or slid over the rigidizer. In alternative forms, the user-contacting material may be provided to the rigidizer by adhesive, ultrasonic welding, stitching, hook and loop material, and / or stud connectors.

[0252] In some forms, the user-contacting material may be on both sides of the rigidizer, or may be only on the user-contacting side (e.g., the user-contacting side) of the rigidizer to reduce material bulk and cost.

[0253] In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 include a flexible material (e.g., textile) that may be comfortable against the user's skin and may not require additional layers for increased comfort. 5.2.2.2 Rear support

[0254] As shown in Figure 4C, some forms of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include a rear support 1350 to help support the display screen 1220 and / or display unit housing 1205 (shown in Figure 4B) near the user's eyes. The rear support 1350 helps secure the display screen and / or display unit housing 1205 to the user's head and properly orient the display screen near the user's eyes.

[0255] In some forms, the rear support 1350 may be coupled to the display unit housing 1205 via the temporal connector 1250 .

[0256] In certain configurations, the temporal connector 1250 may be directly coupled to the display unit housing 1205 and the rear support 1350 .

[0257] In some forms, rear support 1350 may have a three-dimensional contour that conforms to the shape of the user's head. For example, rear support 1350 may have a generally circular three-dimensional shape that is adapted to cover a portion of the user's parietal and occipital bones in use.

[0258] In some forms, the rear support 1350 may be at the rear of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. The rear support 1350 may provide a securing force that is at least partially directed in a forward direction.

[0259] In certain forms, the rear support 1350 is the bottom portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, the rear support 1350 may contact the area of ​​the user's head between the occipital bone and the trapezius muscle. The rear support 1350 may hook onto the lower edge of the occipital bone (e.g., the back of the head). The rear support 1350 may provide an upwardly and / or forwardly directed force to maintain contact with the back of the user's head.

[0260] In certain forms, rear support 1350 is the lowest part of the entire head-mounted display system 1000. For example, rear support 1350 may be located at the base of the user's neck (e.g., overlying the occipital bone and trapezius muscle below the user's eyes), such that rear support 1350 is below display screen 1220 and / or display unit housing 1205.

[0261] In some forms, rear support 1350 may include a padded material that may contact the user's head (e.g., covering the area between the occipital bone and the trapezius muscle). The padded material may provide additional comfort to the user and may limit marks caused by rear support 1350 pulling on the user's head. 5.2.2.3 Forehead Support

[0262] Some forms of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include a forehead support or front support 1360 configured to contact the user's head above the eyes during use. The positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 shown in FIG. 5B includes the forehead support 1360. In some examples, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 shown in FIG. 4A may include the forehead support 1360. The forehead support 1360 may rest on the frontal bone of the user's head. In certain forms, the forehead support 1360 may be above the sphenoid bone and / or temporal bone. This may allow the forehead support 1360 to be positioned above the user's eyebrows.

[0263] In some forms, the forehead support 1360 may be a front portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and may be positioned further forward of the user's head than other portions of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. The rear support 1350 may provide a force that is at least partially directed in a rearward direction.

[0264] In some forms, the forehead support 1360 may include cushioning material (e.g., textile, foam, silicone, etc.) that may come into contact with the user and may help limit marks caused by the straps of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. The forehead support 1360 and the interfacing structure 1100 may work in conjunction to provide comfort to the user.

[0265] In some forms, the forehead support 1360 may be separate from the display unit housing 1205 and may contact the user's head at a different location (eg, higher up) than the display unit housing 1205.

[0266] In some forms, the forehead support 1360 may be adjusted to allow the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 to accommodate the shape and / or configuration of the user's face.

[0267] In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may be coupled to the forehead support 1360 (e.g., at the lateral sides of the forehead support 1360). The temporal connectors 1250 may extend at least partially downwardly to couple to the posterior support 1350.

[0268] In certain forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include multiple pairs of temporal connectors 1250. For example, a pair of temporal connectors 1250 may be coupled to the forehead support 1360, and a pair of temporal connectors 1250 may be coupled to the display unit housing 1205.

[0269] In some forms, the forehead support 1360 can be positioned at an angle that is approximately parallel to the user's forehead, which can improve user comfort. For example, the forehead support 1360 can position the user in an orientation that overlaps the frontal bone and is substantially parallel to the coronal plane. Positioning the forehead support substantially parallel to the coronal plane can reduce the likelihood of bed sores resulting from uneven posture.

[0270] In some forms, the forehead support 1360 may be offset from a rear support or rear support that contacts the rear region of the user's head (e.g., the area over the occipital bone and trapezius muscle). In other words, the axis along the rear straps does not intersect with the forehead support 1360, and the forehead support 1360 may be positioned lower and forward than the axis along the rear straps. The offset between the forehead support 1360 and the rear straps may create a moment that counteracts the weight force of the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205. The greater the offset, the greater the moment, which further contributes to maintaining the proper positioning of the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205. The offset may be increased by moving the forehead support 1360 closer to the user's eyes (e.g., moving it forward and downward along the user's head) or by angling the rear straps more vertically. 5.2.2.4 Adjustable straps

[0271] As shown in FIG. 4C , a portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may be adjustable to apply selective tension to the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 to fix the position of the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205.

[0272] In some forms, the display unit housing 1205 may include at least one loop or eyelet 1254 (as shown in FIG. 4B ), and the at least one temporal connector 1250 may be threaded through the loop and folded back. The length of the temporal connector 1250 threaded through each eyelet 1254 may be selected by the user to adjust the pulling force provided by the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, increasing the length of the temporal connector 1250 threaded through the eyelet 1254 may provide a greater pulling force.

[0273] In some forms, the at least one temporal connector 1250 may include an adjustment portion 1256 and a receiver 1258 (as shown in FIG. 4C ). The adjustment portion 1256 may be placed through an eyelet 1254 on the display unit housing 1205 and coupled to the receiver 1258 (e.g., by folding it over). The adjustment portion 1256 may include a hook material and the receiver 1258 may include a loop material (or vice versa), which may removably hold the adjustment portion 1256 in a desired position. In some examples, the hook and loop material may be Velcro®.

[0274] In certain forms, adjusting the position of the adjustment portion 1256 relative to the receiver 1258 may apply a rearward force to the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205, which may increase or decrease the sealing force of the light shield against the user's head (e.g., if the light shield acts as a seal-forming structure).

[0275] In certain forms, the adjustment portion 1256 may comprise a flexible and / or resilient material, may conform to the shape of the user's head, and / or may allow the adjustment portion to be threaded through the eyelet 1254. For example, the adjustment portion(s) 1256 may comprise an elastic textile capable of providing a resilient pulling force. The remainder of the temporal connector 1250 may comprise a rigid or semi-rigid material as described above (although it is contemplated that additional sections of the temporal connector 1250 may also comprise a flexible material). 5.2.2.4.1 Top strap

[0276] In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include a top strap portion that can cover an upper region of a user's head. The head-mounted display system 1000 shown in FIG. 1A, for example, has a top strap portion.

[0277] In some forms, the top strap portion may extend between the front of the head mounted display system 1000 and a rear region of the head mounted display system 1000.

[0278] In some forms, the top strap portion may comprise a flexible material and may be configured to conform to the shape of the user's head.

[0279] In certain forms, the top strap portion may be connected to the display unit housing 1205. For example, the top strap portion may be coupled to the top surface 1230. The top strap portion may be coupled to the display unit housing 1205 near a rear end of the display unit housing 1205.

[0280] In certain forms, the top strap portion may be coupled to the forehead support 1360. For example, the top strap portion may be coupled to the forehead support 1360 near the upper edge. The top strap portion may be connected to the display unit housing 1205 via the forehead support 1360.

[0281] In some forms, the top strap portion may be connected to the rear support 1350. For example, the top strap portion may be connected near the top edge of the rear support 1350.

[0282] In some forms, the top strap portion may overlie the frontal and parietal bones of the user's head.

[0283] In certain configurations, the top strap portion may extend along the sagittal plane as it extends between the front and back of the head-mounted display system 1000.

[0284] In certain configurations, the top strap portion may exert at least a partially upwardly directed tension force and may counteract gravity.

[0285] In certain forms, the top strap portion may apply at least a partially rearwardly directed pulling force, which may pull the interfacing structure 1100 toward the user's face (and may provide some of the sealing force as the light shield functions as a seal-forming structure).

[0286] In some forms, the top strap portion may be adjustable to apply selective tension to the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 to secure the position of the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205.

[0287] In certain forms, the display unit housing 1205 and / or the forehead support 1360 (as the case may be) may include at least one loop or eyelet 1254 through which the top strap portion may pass and fold back. The length of the top strap portion that is threaded through the eyelet 1254 may be selected by the user to adjust the tension provided by the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, a longer top strap portion that is threaded through the eyelet 1254 may provide more tension.

[0288] In some forms, the top strap portion may include an adjustment portion and a receiver. The adjustment portion may be located through eyelet 1254 or may be coupled to the receiver (e.g., by folding back on itself). The adjustment portion may include hook material and the receiver may include loop material (or vice versa) to releasably hold the adjustment portion in a desired position. In some examples, the hook and loop material may be Velcro®. 5.2.2.5 Rotation Control

[0289] In some forms, the display unit housing 1205 and / or display screen 1220 may pivot relative to the user's face while the user is wearing the positioning and stabilizing structure, allowing the user to view the physical environment while still wearing the user interface 1100. This may be convenient for users who want to take a break to view the virtual environment but do not want to remove the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300.

[0290] In some forms, a pivot connection 1260 may be formed between the top of the display unit housing 1205 and the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, the pivot connection 1260 may be formed on the top surface 1230 of the display unit housing 1205.

[0291] In certain forms, the pivot connection 1260 may be coupled to the forehead support 1360. The display unit housing 1205 may be pivotable about the lower edge of the forehead support 1360.

[0292] In one form, the temporal connector 1250 may be coupled to the forehead support 1360 so that the display unit housing 1205 can pivot.

[0293] In some forms, the pivot connection 1260 may be a ratchet connection and may hold the display unit housing 1205 in the raised position without additional user intervention. 5.2.3 Controller

[0294] 6, some forms of head-mounted display system 1000 include a controller 1270 that a user can manipulate to provide user input to the virtual environment and / or control the operation of head-mounted display system 1000. Controller 1270 can be connected to head-mounted display unit 1200 and provides the user with the ability to interact with virtual objects output from head-mounted display unit 1200 to the user. 5.2.3.1 Handheld Controller

[0295] In some forms, the controller 1270 comprises a handheld device that can be easily held by a user in one hand.

[0296] In certain embodiments, the head-mounted display system 1000 may include two handheld controllers that are substantially identical to one another, each operable by a respective hand of a user.

[0297] In some forms, a user may manipulate the handheld controller(s) to control and / or manipulate virtual objects within the virtual environment.

[0298] In some embodiments, the handheld controller includes a button that can be operated by a user, for example, a user's fingers may press the button while holding the handheld controller.

[0299] In some embodiments, the handheld controller may include directional controls (e.g., joysticks, control pads, etc.) that a user may operate with their thumbs while holding the handheld controller.

[0300] In certain forms, controller 1270 may be wirelessly connected to head-mounted display unit 1200. For example, controller 1270 and head-mounted display unit 1200 may be connected via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or similar means.

[0301] In certain embodiments, the controller 1270 and the head-mounted display unit 1200 may be connected via a wired connection. 5.2.3.2 Fixed Controller

[0302] In some forms, at least a portion of the controller 1270 may be integrally formed on the display unit housing 1205.

[0303] In some forms, the controller 1270 may include control buttons integrally formed on the display unit housing 1205. For example, the control buttons may be formed on the top surface 1230 and / or the bottom surface 1232 so as to be operable by the user's fingers when the user places the palm of their hand on the left or right side surface 1234, 1236 of the display unit housing 1205. Control buttons may also be located on other surfaces of the display unit housing 1205.

[0304] In some embodiments, a user may operate a control button to control at least one operation of head-mounted display system 1000. For example, the control button may be an on / off button that selectively controls whether display screen 1220 outputs an image to the user.

[0305] In certain embodiments, the control buttons and the head-mounted display unit 1200 may be connected by a wired connection.

[0306] In some embodiments, the head-mounted display system 1000 may include both a handheld controller and control buttons. 5.2.4 Speakers

[0307] Referring to FIG. 6, in some forms, the head-mounted display system 1000 includes a sound system or speaker 1272 that can be connected to the head-mounted display unit 1200 and positioned near the user's ears to provide auditory output to the user.

[0308] In some forms, the speakers 1272 may be positioned around the user's ears and may block or limit the user's ability to hear ambient noise.

[0309] In certain forms, the speaker 1272 may be wirelessly connected to the head-mounted display unit 1200. For example, the speaker 1272 and the head-mounted display unit 1200 may be connected via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or similar means.

[0310] In some forms, the speaker 1272 includes a left-ear transducer and a right-ear transducer. In some forms, the left-ear and right-ear transducers may output different signals, such that the volume or noise a user hears at one ear (e.g., the left ear) may be different from the volume or noise the user hears at the other ear (e.g., the right ear).

[0311] In some forms, the speaker 1272 (e.g., the volume of the speaker 1272) may be controlled using the controller 1270. 5.2.5 Power supply

[0312] Referring to FIG. 6, some configurations of the head-mounted display system 1000 may include a power supply 1274 capable of providing power to the head-mounted display unit 1200 and other electrical components of the head-mounted display system 1000.

[0313] In certain forms, the power source 1274 may include a wired electrical connection that may be coupled to an external power source that may be fixed in a particular location.

[0314] In certain forms, power source 1274 may include a portable battery capable of powering head-mounted display unit 1200. A portable battery may allow for increased user mobility compared to a wired electrical connection.

[0315] In certain embodiments, head-mounted display system 1000 and / or other electronic components of head-mounted display system 1000 may include internal batteries, allowing them to be used without power source 1274.

[0316] In some forms, head-mounted display system 1000 may include a power source 1274 at a location remote from head-mounted display unit 1200. Electrical wires may extend from the distal location to display unit housing 1205 to electrically connect power source 1274 to head-mounted display unit 1200.

[0317] In certain configurations, the power source 1274 may be coupled to the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, the power source 1274 may be permanently or removably coupled to a strap of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. The power source 1274 may be coupled to the rear of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and disposed approximately opposite the display unit housing 1205 and / or head-mounted display unit 1200. Thus, the weight of the power source 1274, as well as the weight of the head-mounted display unit 1200 and display unit housing 1205, may be distributed throughout the head-mounted display system 1000 rather than being concentrated at the front of the head-mounted display system 1000. By shifting the weight to the rear of the head-mounted display system 1000, moments on the user's face may be limited, thereby improving comfort and allowing the user to wear the head-mounted display system 1000 for longer periods of time.

[0318] In certain forms, power source 1274 may be supported by the user distal to the user's head. For example, power source 1274 may be connected to head-mounted display unit 1200 and / or display unit housing 1205 only via electrical connectors (e.g., wires). Power source 1274 may be stored in the user's pants pocket, belt clip, or similar method that supports the weight of power source 1274. This may eliminate weight that the user's head must support, making head-mounted display system 1000 more comfortable for the user to wear.

[0319] In some forms, head-mounted display unit 1200 may include a power source 1274. For example, display unit 1220 may be a mobile phone or other similar electronic device that includes an internal power source 1274. 5.2.6 Control System

[0320] 6, some configurations of the head-mounted display system 1000 include a control system 1276 that helps the user control the output they receive. Specifically, the control system 1276 can control the visual output from the display screen 1220 and / or the audible output from the speaker 1272.

[0321] In some forms, the control system 1276 may include sensors that monitor various parameters (e.g., in the physical environment) and communicate the measured parameters to a processor. The output received by the user may be affected by the measured parameters.

[0322] In some forms, control system 1276 is integrated into head-mounted display unit 1200. In other forms, control system 1276 is housed in a control system support 1290 that is separate from, but connected to (e.g., electrically connected to) head-mounted display unit 1200. 5.2.6.1 Power supply

[0323] In some forms, the control system 1276 may be powered by a power source 1274, which may be at least one battery that is used to power the components of the control system 1276. For example, the sensors of the control system 1276 may be powered by the power source 1274.

[0324] In some forms, at least one battery of the power source 1274 may be a low-power system battery 1278 and a main battery 1280 .

[0325] In certain embodiments, a low-power system battery 1278 may be used to power a real-time (RT) clock 1282 of the control system 1276 . 5.2.6.1.1 Integrated power supply support

[0326] In some forms, battery support 1288 may support low power system battery 1278 and / or main battery 1280. Battery support 1288 may be supported directly on head mounted display system 1000.

[0327] In some forms, the battery support 1288 may be located within the display unit housing 1205.

[0328] In some forms, the battery support 1288 may be located on the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, the battery support 1288 may be coupled to the rear support 1350. The weight of the head mounted display system 1000 may be better balanced around the user's head. One form of the battery support 1288 is a battery pack housing, which will be described in more detail herein. 5.2.6.1.2 Remote power supply support

[0329] In some forms, the battery support portion 1288 may support the low-power system battery 1278 and / or the main battery 1280. The battery support 1288 may be coupled to the user independently of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and / or the display unit housing 1205 (e.g., coupled via a belt clip). The battery support 1288 may also be supported away from the user's body (e.g., if the head-mounted display system 1000 receives power from a computer or video game console). A tether may couple the battery support 1288 to the control system 1276 and / or other electronic devices. The positioning of the battery support improves user comfort because the weight of the low-power system battery 1278 and / or the main battery 1280 is not supported on the user's head. 5.2.6.2 Orientation Sensor

[0330] In some forms, the control system 1276 includes an orientation sensor 1284 that can sense the orientation of the user's body. For example, the orientation sensor 1284 may sense when the user rotates their entire body or their head individually. In other words, the orientation sensor 1284 may measure the angular position (or similar parameter) of the user's body. By sensing the rotation, the sensor 1284 may communicate with the display screen 1220 to output different images.

[0331] In some examples, the external orientation sensor may be located in the physical environment in which the user is wearing head-mounted display system 1000. The external orientation sensor may track the user's movements, similar to orientation sensor 1284 described above. The use of an external orientation sensor may reduce the weight that the user needs to support. 5.2.6.2.1 Camera

[0332] In some forms, the control system 1276 may include at least one camera, which may be positioned so as to be able to observe the user's physical environment.

[0333] In some forms, orientation sensor 1284 is a camera that can be configured to observe the user's physical environment to determine the orientation of the user's head (e.g., which way the user's head is tilted).

[0334] In some forms, orientation sensor 1284 includes multiple cameras positioned throughout head-mounted display system 1000 to provide a more complete view of the user's physical environment and to more accurately measure the orientation of the user's head.

[0335] In some forms, the camera 1284 is coupled to the front surface 1238 of the display unit housing 1205. The camera 1284 may be positioned to provide a "first person" perspective.

[0336] In certain embodiments, display screen 1220 may use camera 1284 to display the user's physical environment, and the user may feel as if they are viewing the physical environment without the assistance of head-mounted display system 1000 (i.e., a first-person perspective). This may allow the user to move around the physical environment without removing head-mounted display system 1000.

[0337] In one embodiment, the display screen 1220 may display virtual objects while displaying the user's physical environment. The camera 1284 may allow the head-mounted display system 1000 to operate as a mixed reality device. The control system 1276 may include controls for switching operation between the VR and MR devices. 5.2.6.3 Eye sensor

[0338] In some forms, the control system 1276 may include an eye sensor that can track the eye movements of the user. For example, the eye sensor may measure the position of at least one of the user's eyes and determine the direction in which at least one of the user's eyes is pointing.

[0339] In some forms, the control system 1276 may include two eye sensors, each corresponding to one of the user's eyes.

[0340] In some forms, the eye sensor may be located in or near the lens 1240.

[0341] In some forms, the eye sensors may measure the angular position of the user's ears to determine the visual output from the display screen 1220. 5.2.6.4 Processing System

[0342] In some forms, the control system 1276 may include a processing system that can receive measurements from various sensors in the control system 1276 .

[0343] In some forms, the processing system may receive measurements recorded by the orientation sensor 1284 and / or the eye sensor. Based on these measurements, the processor may communicate with the display screen 1220 to modify the image that is output. For example, if the user's eyes and / or the user's head are rotated upward, the display screen 1220 may display a higher portion of the virtual environment (e.g., in response to instructions from the processing system). 5.3 Augmented reality display interface

[0344] 5A and 5B , a display device or head-mounted display system 1000 according to one embodiment of the present technology includes the following functional aspects: a display screen 1220 configured for augmented reality, a display unit housing 1205, and a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. In some embodiments, the functional aspects may provide one or more physical components. In some embodiments, one or more physical components may provide one or more functional aspects. In use, the display screen 1220 is positioned near and in front of the user's eyes so that the user can view the display screen 1220.

[0345] In other embodiments, head-mounted display system 1000 may also include interface structure 1100, controller 1270, speaker 1272, power supply 1274, and / or control system 1276. In some examples, these may be integral components of head-mounted display system 1000, while in other examples, they may be modular and incorporated into head-mounted display system 1000 as desired by the user. 5.4 Positioning and stabilizing structures

[0346] 7A-20C illustrate a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and a head-mounted display system 1000 including the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. The positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 disclosed herein may be constructed and arranged for use in a head-mounted display system 1000, particularly for use with VR. However, it should be understood that the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and head-mounted display system 1000, or individual features thereof, described herein may be applicable to any of VR, MR, AR, or other artificial reality. The head-mounted display system 1000 may have any of the features, configurations, aspects, functions, etc. described elsewhere herein.

[0347] 7A-20C may include a head-mounted display unit 1200 with a display unit housing 1205. The display unit housing 1205 may include a display, as described elsewhere herein or known in the art. The head-mounted display unit 1200 may include an interface structure 1100 connected to the display unit housing 1205 and constructed and arranged to engage a user's face in use.

[0348] The positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 shown in Figures 7A-20C is constructed and arranged to hold the head-mounted display unit 1200 in an operable position on the user's head during use (e.g., so that the display is positioned in a viewing position in front of the user's eyes and the interface structure 1100 engages the user's face to form an optical seal over at least the forehead, sphenoid, and cheek regions of the user's face, etc.).

[0349] The interface structure 1100 may be configured to engage the user's face around the area surrounding the user's eyes during use. The interface structure 1100 may be configured to engage the sides of the user's face outside the user's eyes and to engage the user's forehead during use. The interface structure 1100 may engage the user's cheeks, the sides of the user's face outside the user's eyes, and the user's forehead. The interface structure 1100 may engage the user's face in areas over the user's nose, maxilla, cheekbones, sphenoid bone, and frontal bone. The interface structure 1100 may engage the user's face in the areas shown in FIG. 4D, for example.

[0350] For example, with reference to FIG. 7B , the interfacing structure 1100 may be structured and positioned to be positioned around the eye area of ​​a user's face and may include a face-engaging flange 1118 configured to engage the user's face during use. The face-engaging flange 1118 may be flexible and resilient. The face-engaging flange 1118 may be formed of an elastomeric material, such as silicone or TPE. In some examples, the interfacing structure 1100 includes a cushion (not visible in the drawings). The cushion may be at least partially covered by the face-engaging flange 1118. The cushion may be formed of foam, silicone, gel, or other suitable cushioning material or structure structured to function as a cushion. In some examples, the interfacing structure 1100 includes a cushion and does not include the face-engaging flange 1118.

[0351] Interface structure 1100 may be configured to engage the user's face to resist compression and maintain comfort for the user when head-mounted display unit 1200 is securely fastened to the user's face. Cushions, if present, may contribute to the resiliency of interface structure 1100. Interface structure 1100 may include a pair of cheek portions 1140 configured to engage the user's cheeks in use (see, for example, FIG. 12E ), a forehead portion 1175 configured to engage the user's forehead in use, and a pair of sphenoid portions 1170 disposed on each lateral side of the interface structure connecting between the forehead and cheek portions and configured to engage the user's head near the sphenoid bone.

[0352] In some examples, the interfacing structure 1100 includes a nose portion 1180 between the cheek portions 1140. The nose portion 1180 is configured to engage the user's nose during use and may be configured to at least partially block light from reaching the user's eyes from the user's nose region (e.g., block light traveling via a path close to the surface of the user's nose). The nose portion 1180 may be configured, for example, to engage the front, top, and / or lateral sides of the user's nose during use. The nose portion 1180 may be attached to the cheek portions 1140. 5.4.1 Lateral and top strap sections

[0353] Figure 7A shows a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 according to an example of the present technology, and Figure 7B shows a head-mounted display system 1000 with the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 shown in Figure 7A. Head-mounted display system 1000 includes a head-mounted display unit 1200 that includes a display unit housing 1205 and an interface structure 1100.

[0354] The positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 in this example includes a pair of arms 1210 that are connected (e.g., fixedly attached or removably connected) to each lateral side of the display unit housing 1205 (e.g., to the housing and / or a pair of lateral support arms on the housing) in use. In this example, the arms 1210 are semi-rigid and constructed and arranged to protrude rearward (e.g., parallel to the lateral support arms along at least a portion of their length) from the display unit housing 1205 on each lateral side of the user's head in use. The front of the arms 1210 may include a connector 1208 (e.g., a snap-fit ​​connector) to facilitate removable connection to the display unit housing 1205. The connectors 1208 may be a plastic material that is bonded to the arms 1210 to form a unitary structure. Each connector may include a flange 1209 to facilitate a snap-fit ​​connection to the housing unit. The connectors 1208 are elongated in the direction of the arms 1210 and are arranged to extend rearward from the housing unit along a portion of the arms.

[0355] It should be noted that the arms 1210 may be configured to resist bending about one or more axes and therefore may be rigidized or at least semi-rigid (i.e., semi-rigid or rigid). In this example, each arm 1210 may include a rear portion 1215 including an upper arm connection portion 1211 and a lower arm connection portion 1212. The arms 1210 may include a textile outer layer and be rigidized to be substantially rigid. In some examples, the arms 1210 may include a substantially rigid component covered with a textile layer (e.g., textile on both sides, or textile on one side). In some examples, only the user-facing side of the arm includes a textile layer.

[0356] In some examples, each arm 1210 is at least partially covered by a textile sleeve. In some particular examples, each arm 1210 is encapsulated within a textile sleeve. Partially or fully covering the arms 1210 may provide a comfortable contact between the arms 1210 and the user's head, provide an aesthetically pleasing and comfortable perception, and may also conceal or protect other components included on the arms 1210, such as electronic devices, sensors, transducers, or wiring that runs along the arms 1210 to a battery pack or other components at the rear.

[0357] The positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 further includes a top strap portion 1340 constructed and arranged to connect between the upper arm connection portions 1211 of each of the pair of arms 1210 (e.g., via rear legs 1341 of the top strap portion 1340). In the example shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B , in addition to each of the upper arm connection portions 1211 of the pair of arms 1210, the top strap portion is connected to the head-mounted display unit 1200 (e.g., via front legs 1342 of the top strap portion 1340). The top strap portion 1340 is configured to apply a force to the head-mounted display unit 1200 at least partially in an upward direction so as to advantageously balance at least a portion of the weight of the head-mounted display unit 1200. The force applied by the top strap portion 1340 may also be applied partially in a rearward direction, which may be advantageous for holding the head-mounted display unit 1200 against the user's face. In this example, the top strap portion 1340 may be generally Y-shaped. In other examples, top strap portion 1340 is connected only between upper arm connectors 1211 and is not connected to head-mounted display unit 1200. In such examples, top strap portion 1340 may be an upper transverse strap portion that overlies the parietal and / or frontal bones of the user's head in use and includes one or more features of the upper transverse strap portion described elsewhere herein.

[0358] The top strap portion 1340 may include a textile material. In some examples, the top strap portion 1340 may include a textile outer layer and a foam inner layer. The top strap portion 1340 may include, for example, a textile-foam laminate.

[0359] The untranslated (0%) positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 further includes an occipital strap portion 1320, as shown in FIG. 7B , that connects the lower arm connectors 1212 of the arms 1210 and is constructed and arranged to engage a portion of the user's head located above or below the occipital region of the user's head during use. The occipital strap portion 1320 may be under tension during use and may exert a force on each arm 1210 in at least a partial rearward direction. This force may be transmitted through each arm 1210 and may pull the head-mounted display unit 1200 partially rearward toward the user's face, which may advantageously provide a stable engagement between the interfacing structure 1100 and the user's face. The occipital strap portion 1320 may include a textile material. In some examples, the occipital strap portion 1320 may include a textile outer layer (on one or both sides) and a foam inner layer. The occipital strap portion 1320 may include, for example, a textile-foam laminate.

[0360] The arm 1210 may be pivotally attached to the display unit housing 1205, allowing the angle of the head-mounted display unit 1200 to be adjusted to suit the user's particular anatomy. As shown in FIG. 7B , the arm 1210 may pivot relative to the display unit housing 1205 about axis 1203, allowing the display unit housing to rotate relative to the arm 1210 in the direction of arrow 1206. Alternatively, as described above, the arm 1210 may be attached to a lateral support arm of the display unit housing, which may be pivotally connected to the remainder of the housing (e.g., about the same axis 1203). Thus, when the arm 1210 is connected to the lateral support arm of the display unit housing 1205, the arm 1210 moves in accordance with the pivotal rotation of the lateral support arm.

[0361] Top strap portion 1340 may connect to head-mounted display unit 1200 at one point. The one point may be, for example, a central location on display unit housing 1200. The one point may be aligned with the sagittal plane of the user's head in use. Top strap portion 1340 is substantially Y-shaped and may connect to two points near the back of the user's head (upper arm connection portion 1211 of arm 1210) and one point in front of the user's head (on head-mounted display unit 1200) in use.

[0362] The top strap portion 1340 may be permanently connected to the top connection portion 1211 of the arm 1210. For example, the top strap portion 1340 may be sewn, welded (e.g., ultrasonically welded), glued, or permanently connected in another manner (e.g., a permanent snap-fit ​​component) to the arm 1210 at the top connection portion 1211. In other examples, the top strap portion 1340 may be removably connected to the arm 1210, for example, by a magnetic connector or other suitable connector.

[0363] The top strap portion 1340, or a portion thereof, may be selectively adjustable in length (e.g., have a length that can be adjusted by the user as needed to achieve a good fit). When attached to the head-mounted display unit 1200, the top strap portion 1340 may pass through an eyelet on the head-mounted display unit 1200 and be folded back and secured to itself, for example, by a hook-and-loop connection. The user can then pull the top strap portion 1340 more or less through the eyelet to adjust the effective length of the top strap portion 1340. Alternatively, the top strap portion 1340 may loop back after passing through the eyelet and be secured to itself by another suitable connection, such as a slidable buckle, or by attachment to one of selected domes or magnetic connection points. The domes may be protrusions configured to mate with corresponding structures located on the folded-back portion of the top strap portion 1340.

[0364] 7A and 7B, the rear strap portion 1320 includes a rear strap connector 1322 at one end of the rear strap portion 1320 that is constructed and arranged to be removably attached to one of the corresponding lower connections 1212 of the arm 1210. In other examples, the rear strap portion 1320 may be permanently attached to the arm 1210.

[0365] However, in this particular example, the rear strap connector 1322 is constructed and arranged to magnetically attach to the corresponding lower connection portion 1212. A magnetic connector is particularly user-friendly. The rear strap portion 1320 may be selectively adjustable in length (e.g., a user can adjust the length as needed to achieve a proper fit). The rear strap portion 1320 passes through an eyelet in the rear strap connector 1322 and is folded back and secured to itself, for example, by a hook-and-loop connection. The user can then pull the rear strap portion 1320 more or less through the eyelet to adjust the effective length of the rear strap portion 1320. Alternatively, the rear strap portion 1320 may be folded back and secured to itself by another suitable connection after passing through the eyelet, such as a slidable buckle or connection to one of a series of domes.

[0366] The top strap portion 1340, the arms 1210, and the back strap portion 1320 may together form a ring portion that engages and fits snugly against the back of the user's head. Advantageously, being able to adjust the length of the back strap portion 1320, for example, in the manner described above, allows the user to adjust the effective length / circumference of the ring portion to achieve a better (e.g., snug and comfortable) fit of the ring portion against the back of the head.

[0367] The magnetic connection between the rear head strap connector 1322 and the lower connection portion 1212 of the arm 1210, in combination with the selectively adjustable length of the rear head strap portion 1320, advantageously provides a “set-and-forget” adjustment and quick-connect arrangement. A user can adjust the length of the rear head strap portion 1320 once and then use the magnetic connector to quickly connect and disconnect the rear head strap portion 1320 when donning and doffing the head-mounted display system 1000, without having to readjust the length each time. This can be identified as a “set-and-forget” adjustable, releasable connection, which allows the user to adjust it only once and quickly release and reconnect the rear head strap portion 1320 from the arm 1210 during donning and doffing. The quick-connect / quick-disconnect mechanism also advantageously allows users with long hair, for example in a ponytail, to easily don and doff the head-mounted display system 1000 by connecting the rear head strap portion 1320 under their hair, rather than having to thread their hair over the strap portion.

[0368] In addition to, or instead of, the adjustable rear head strap portion 1320, in some examples, one or both of the arms 1210 may be formed of two portions releasably connected to one another. The two portions of such arms 1210 are connected to one another (e.g., by a magnetic connection) to allow for quick and easy disconnection and reconnection when attaching or detaching the head-mounted display system 1000. Alternatively or additionally, one or both of the arms may be releasably connected to the head-mounted display system 1000 to allow for quick connection and disconnection when attaching or detaching, or to allow the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 to be separated from the head-mounted display unit 1200 for cleaning, replacement, transportation, etc. In a further example, the two portions of each arm 1210 may be movably connected to one another, allowing for size adjustment of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, a user with a larger head may adjust the length of the arms 1210 to increase the spacing between the rear of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and the head-mounted display unit 1200.

[0369] In some examples, one or both of the lower connections 1212 may be movable relative to the respective arms 1210 to which it is connected. That is, one or both of the lower connections 1212 may be movable relative to the remainder of the respective arms 1210. In some examples, one or both of the lower connections 1212 may be slidable relative to the remainder of the respective arms 1210. The lower connections 1212 may be selectively adjustable in position relative to other components of the head-mounted display system 1000, such as the head-mounted display unit 1200, the front portion 1210 of the arm, or the upper connection 1211. The optimal position for each lower connection 1212 is near the ear without touching it, which may help the rear head strap portion 1320 engage the head in a low, stable position and help prevent the rear head strap portion from lifting up during use. Movable lower connections 1212 allow each user to position the lower connection 1212 at or near the optimal position for the user's particular head shape and size.

[0370] The upper connection portion 1211 and the lower connection portion 1212 of each arm 1210 may be vertically spaced apart from each other such that the lower connection portion 1212 is closer to the Frankfurt horizontal plane of the user's head than the upper connection portion 1211. The upper connection portion 1211 may be located near the top of the user's head, and the lower connection portion 1211 may be located vertically near eye level of the user's head. In some examples, the lower connection portion 1211 is configured to be located above the base of the upper ear of the user's head.

[0371] In some examples, the lower connection portion 1212 may be spaced horizontally rearward from the upper connection portion 1211. In some examples, both the upper connection portion 1211 and the lower connection portion 1212 may be positioned behind the superior-basal point of the user's head.

[0372] Each arm 1210 may protrude rearward and curve upward, away from the display unit housing. In the illustrated example, the lower connection portion 1212 is at approximately the same level in the vertical axis as the connection portion of the arm 1210 to the display unit housing 1205. In one example, each arm 1210 may be narrow at a forward position near the connection portion with the display unit housing 1205 and widen (in the vertical axis) near the upper connection portion 1211 and the lower connection portion 1212, such that the upper connection portion 1211 is located at the top of the user's head (e.g., near the junction of the parietal bone and the frontal bone) when in use, and the lower connection portion 1212 is located at the bottom and back of the user's head (e.g., near the occipital bone when in use). In some examples, such as the illustrated example, each arm 1210 widens (e.g., gradually) in the rearward direction (e.g., from a position aligned with a coronal plane intersecting each superior temporal bone of the user's head).

[0373] Each arm 1210 may bend inward to fit the shape of the user's head. Each arm 1210 may protrude rearward from the display unit housing 1205 and bend inward near the rear of the user's head.

[0374] In some examples, each arm 1210 may be structured to resist bending upward and downward, and in some particular examples, may be structured to allow bending inward to engage the rearward-facing surface of the user's head. Advantageously, this allows the arms 1210 to bend inward to encircle or "hug" the user's head during use, providing a secure and stable fit. The cross-section of each arm 1210 may have a height, substantially aligned upward-downward, that is greater than a width, substantially aligned inward-outward. The relatively greater height of the arm 1210 in cross-section provides greater resistance to bending upward and downward compared to the resistance to bending inward due to the relatively smaller width of the arm 1210.

[0375] In some examples, the cross-sectional height of each arm 1210 may range from 15 to 30 mm, and the cross-sectional width may range from 2 to 8 mm. In particular examples, the height may be 3 to 10 times the width. The actual dimensions may vary depending on the stiffness of the material(s) used to form the arm 1210 and the particular cross-sectional shape of each arm 1210. More generally, each arm may include greater resistance to upward and downward bending than to inward bending. Advantageously, the higher stiffness to upward and downward bending allows the arm 1210 to support a portion of the weight of the head-mounted display unit 1200, while the lower stiffness to inward bending allows the arm 1210 to conform to the curvature of the user's head.

[0376] In some examples, each arm 1210 includes one or more hinges that facilitate bending each arm to conform to the shape of the user's head. Such hinges may be formed by thin portions of the arm 1210 and function in addition to bending the rest of the arm 1210.

[0377] In some examples, when top strap portion 1340 is under tension, such as due to the weight of head-mounted display unit 1200 or a user shortening top strap portion 1340, top connection portion 1211 is pressed toward the surface of the user's head. Top strap portion 1340 may pull top connection portion 1211 partially inward toward the surface of the user's head, and in some examples, may engage the user's head, or if top connection portion 1211 is already in contact with the user's head, top strap portion 1340 may increase the force with which top connection portion 1211 is pulled against the user's head, providing a secure and stable fit.

[0378] Similarly, in some examples, when the rear strap portion 1320 is under tension, for example when the rear strap portion 1320 is tightened, the lower connection portion 1212 may be pressed toward the surface of the user's head. The rear strap portion 1320 may pull the lower connection portion 1212 partially inward toward the surface of the user's head, and in some examples may engage the user's head, or if the lower connection portion 1212 is already in contact with the user's head, the rear strap portion 1320 may increase the force with which the lower connection portion 1212 is pulled against the user's head to provide a secure and stable fit.

[0379] 7A and 7B (the width is the length of a line or curve in the sagittal plane of a user's head created by the intersection of the occipital strap portion 1320 with the sagittal plane when the user is wearing the head-mounted display system 1000). A wider occipital strap portion 1320 may exert less pressure on the user's head than a narrower occipital strap portion 1320 because it provides a larger surface area in contact with the user's head. In some examples, the occipital strap portion 1320 may be in a range of 25-50 mm wide, such as a range of 30-40 mm wide, such as a 35 mm wide.

[0380] In other examples of the present technology, some or all portions of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may comprise materials other than or in addition to textile or textile and foam, in some examples, some or all of the strap portions may comprise silicone, hard plastic, foam, leather, or other suitable materials. 5.4.2 Ring strap part

[0381] Figures 8A-9 show further examples of head-mounted display systems. Figures 8A and 8B show head-mounted display system 1000 including a head-mounted display unit 1200 as described with reference to Figures 7A-7B (or elsewhere herein). Head-mounted display unit 1200 may include a display unit housing 1205 with a display, and an interface structure 1100 connected to display unit housing 1205 and constructed and arranged to engage a user's face in use.

[0382] 8A-8B, positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes ring strap portion 1360. Ring strap portion 1360 is constructed and positioned to lie on a path that encircles the upper-rear region of the user's head, also referred to in this example as the crown of the user's head. Ring strap portion 1360 may lie on a path that passes through the upper region of the user's head, e.g., over the parietal bone near the frontal bone, the lateral and posterior regions of the user's head, e.g., over the parietal bone near the temporal bone, and the posterior region of the user's head, e.g., over the occipital bone or over the parietal bone near the occipital bone.

[0383] The ring strap portion 1360 may encircle the upper-rear region of the user's head, as shown in FIG. 8B , for example. The ring strap portion 1360 may, for example, follow a continuously / stable curved path without discontinuous / abrupt changes in direction. In some examples, the ring strap portion 1360 may be semi-rigid and / or structured to substantially retain its in-use shape when the head-mounted display system 1000 is not being worn by a user. Rather than being completely relaxed / sagging, the ring strap portion 1360 may be configured to retain an at least partially rounded shape when not being worn by a user. The ring strap portion 1360, and in some examples, substantially all of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 (e.g., the ring strap portion 1360 and the lateral strap portions 1330) may be sufficiently rigid (e.g., at least semi-rigid) to retain its in-use shape when not in use, and may also include sufficient flexibility to deform from its in-use shape with only intentional finger pressure, if desired.

[0384] The ring strap portion 1360 may be semi-rigid and formed from a textile and foam laminate material (e.g., a foam covered with a textile), where the foam is stiffer than the textile, thereby providing rigidity to the ring strap portion 1360. Alternatively, the ring strap portion 1360 may be provided with rigidizers within or on the ring strap portion 1360. Such rigidizers may be stiffer than other materials in the ring strap portion, thereby providing rigidity to the ring strap portion. Rigidizers may also be provided in other strap portions, as described elsewhere in this disclosure. The rigidizers, in some examples, may be formed from a plastic material (e.g., a thermoplastic material) or other suitable material. In some examples, the rigidizers are formed from Hytrel.

[0385] The ring strap portion 1360 may be structured to be secured in place relative to the upper-rear region of the user's head so that the ring strap portion 1360 remains in place and substantially maintains its in-use shape during use. The upper-rear region is convex, and the ring strap portion 1360 engages the user's head around the convex surface, so that when the ring strap portion 1360 is pulled against the upper-rear region by the other strap portions of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, the ring strap portion 1360 does not substantially move, resulting in the ring strap portion 1360 securely engaging the user's head. In some examples, the ring strap portion 1360 may include a small amount of elastic stretch. While a slight amount of stretch can advantageously help the ring strap portion 1360 fit snugly and securely on the user's head, excessive stretch may result in excessive force being applied to the user's head or cause the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 to become unstable or move during use.

[0386] In other examples, the ring strap portions 1360 may be substantially non-stretchable. In some examples, the lateral strap portions 1330 are substantially non-stretchable. In other examples, the lateral strap portions 1330 may include at least semi-rigid and / or substantially non-stretchable portion(s) and other portion(s) that are elastic (e.g., portion(s) that are relatively more elastic than the semi-rigid / non-stretchable portions).

[0387] 8A and 8B form an upper transverse strap portion 1370 constructed and arranged to engage an upper region of the user's head at or near the coronal plane aligned with the respective superior auricular points of the user's head. Ring strap portion 1360 further includes an occipital strap portion 1320 constructed and arranged to engage a region of the user's head located above the occipital bone or above the parietal bone near the occipital bone.

[0388] Positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 in this example also includes a pair of lateral strap portions 1330 connected to ring strap portion 1360 and constructed and arranged to connect to each lateral side of head mounted display unit 1200. Lateral strap portions 1330 may be under tension in use such that as head mounted display unit 1200 is pulled towards the user's face, ring strap portion 1360 is pulled against the upper-rear region of the user's head, such that ring strap portion 1360 is substantially locked in place due to the convex shape of the surface of the upper-rear region of the user's head.

[0389] The positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may be configured to partially resist angular change between the upper transverse strap portion 1370 and the occipital strap portion 1320 when the transverse strap portion 1330 is under tension. For example, the junction between the upper transverse strap portion 1370 and the occipital strap portion 1320 may be formed to have sufficient rigidity to resist angular change between the path of the upper transverse strap portion 1370 and the path of the occipital strap portion 1320 near the junction. Such rigidity may be provided by material thickness or by adding a reinforcing component (e.g., a rigidizer), etc., by way of example only. The junction between the upper transverse strap portion 1370 and the occipital strap portion 1320 may be seamless. For example, the upper transverse strap portion 1370 and the occipital strap portion 1320 may be integrally formed at least at the junction (but may be segmented elsewhere around the ring strap portion 1360). This may help distribute the tension in the lateral strap portions 1330 around the entire ring strap portion 1360, which may advantageously prevent deformation and / or stretching of the ring strap portion 1360 due to the transfer of tension from the lateral strap portions 1330, and may support some of the weight of the head-mounted display unit 1200 while maintaining comfort.

[0390] Other examples that are highly adjustable but allow the upper rear strap to move freely relative to the lower rear strap may rely on a large force applied directly to the user's head below the strap to counter the tension of the lateral side straps. Advantageously, the ring strap portion 1360 of the example shown in Figures 8A and 8B may distribute the force in a "hoop stress" manner around the ring strap portion 1360, which may be more comfortable for the user.

[0391] 8A and 8B , lateral strap portions 1330 may support at least a portion of the weight of head-mounted display unit 1200 and transfer a portion of that weight to upper transverse strap portion 1370 and / or ring strap portion 1360 as a whole. In particular, ring strap portion 1360 may support at least a majority of the weight of head-mounted display unit 1200 via lateral strap portion 1330. In some examples, lateral strap portion 1330 and upper transverse strap portion 1370 may support at least a majority of the weight of head-mounted display unit 1200.

[0392] Lateral strap portions 1330 and upper transverse strap portion 1370 may support the weight of head mounted display unit 1200 by pulling head mounted display unit 1200 snugly against the user's face, such that the upward component of static friction and normal force exerted by the user's face on head mounted display unit 1200 counteracts the weight of head mounted display unit 1200. Additionally or alternatively, lateral strap portion 1330, which is secured to itself by connection to upper transverse strap portion 1370 as part of ring strap portion 1360, may apply a partial upward force to head mounted display unit 1200 to counteract at least a portion of the weight of head mounted display unit 1200. Each lateral strap portion 1330 may extend at least partially upward from its respective connection to head mounted display unit 1200. For example, the rear end portion of the lateral strap portion 1330 (e.g., connection point 1333 to ring strap portion 1360) may be located higher than the front end portion of the lateral strap portion (e.g., connection point with head-mounted display unit or arm 1210). This may create tension in the lateral strap portion 1330 that has a vertically upward (e.g., upward) component to counteract some of the weight.

[0393] In some examples, the lateral strap portions 1330 are connected to the ring strap portion 1360 between (e.g., substantially midway between) the top of the ring strap portion 1360 and the bottom of the ring strap portion 1360. As shown in the example of FIG. 8G, the lateral strap portions 1330 are connected near and above the lateral midpoint around the ring strap portion 1360. The lateral strap portions 1330 may be positioned so as to be unlikely to contact the user's ears, but may be connected to the ring strap portion 1360 near the user's ears. In some particular examples, the lateral strap portions 1330 may include rigidizers attached to the lateral strap portions 1330 that extend rearward past the user's ears in use and, if necessary, extend to the occipital strap portion. Referring now to FIGS. 8F-8I, examples will be described in which the ring strap portion 1360 includes an upper segment 1360a, a pair of outer segments 1360b, and a lower segment 1360c.

[0394] In some examples, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes lateral strap portions 1330 and semi-rigid portions (e.g., including rigidizers) in portions of the lateral segments 1360b that, in use, are located below the lateral strap portions 1330. The positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes a pair of rigidizers, each extending within a respective lateral strap portion 1330 and onto a corresponding one of the portions of the lateral segments 1360b below the lateral strap portion 1330. In some examples, the lateral strap portions 1330 are semi-rigid.

[0395] In the example referring to FIG. 8F-1 , the lateral strap portion 1330 may include a layered arrangement including an inner (user-contacting) layer 1353 (e.g., a textile material), a cushioning layer 1358 (e.g., foam, gel), a rigidizer layer 1359 (e.g., a plastic, thermoplastic rigidizer), and an outer layer 1352 (e.g., a textile material). In examples, the inner and outer textile layers may be textile sleeves (e.g., a tubular knit textile). In other examples, the cushioning layer may be omitted. It is understood that the layered structure described herein may also be used with other strap portions described elsewhere in this disclosure as being stiffened or including a stiffening device.

[0396] The length of each lateral strap portion 1330 may be selectively adjustable (e.g., have a length that can be adjusted by the user as needed to achieve a proper fit). Each lateral strap portion 1330 passes through a respective eyelet on the head-mounted display unit 1200, folds back, and is secured to itself, for example, by a hook-and-loop connection. In another example, an arm containing the eyelet may be part of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and configured to attach to the display unit housing 1205. The user can then pull the lateral strap portion 1330 more or less through the eyelet to adjust the effective length of the lateral strap portion 1330. Alternatively, after passing through the eyelet, each lateral strap portion 1330 may be folded back and secured to itself by another suitable connection, such as a slidable buckle or a connection to one of a series of domes.

[0397] In the example shown in FIG. 8B , the head-mounted display unit 1200 includes a pair of arms 1210 extending rearward from each lateral side of the display unit housing 1205. In other examples, the arms 1210 may be part of a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and configured to attach to the display unit housing 1205. It will be understood that in any of the other examples illustrated herein, the arms 1210 may be formed as part of the head-mounted display housing or as part of a positioning and stabilizing structure configured to attach to the display unit housing. Lateral strap portions 1330 are each attached to one of the arms 1210. In this particular example, the lateral strap portions 1330 each pass through a respective guide 1213 located near the rear end of each arm 1210, then pass through an eyelet near the front end of the arm 1210, and fold back and secure themselves.

[0398] The arm 1210 may be pivotally attached to the display unit housing 1205, which advantageously allows the angle of the head-mounted display unit 1200 to be adjusted to suit a particular user's build. The arm 1210 may be substantially rigid. For example, the arm 1210 may be formed from a rigid plastic material.

[0399] As mentioned above, in some examples, lateral strap portion 1330 applies a force having an upward component to head-mounted display unit 1200. As shown in FIG. 8B , when head-mounted display system 1000 is worn by a user, lateral strap portion 1330 may be connected to ring strap portion 1360 at connection point 1333 spaced upward from arm 1210 (e.g., the connection point between the arm and the head-mounted display unit). Connection point 1333 may be spaced upward relative to the user's eyes during use. With this arrangement, lateral strap portion 1330 under tension during use may pull head-mounted display unit 1200 rearward to engage the user's face and partially upward to absorb some of the weight of head-mounted display unit 1200, achieving a comfortable fit.

[0400] Positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, in this particular example, further includes a top strap portion 1340. Top strap portion 1340 is connected to upper transverse strap portion 1370 and is constructed and arranged to connect to the head-mounted display unit, for example, at a single point. Top strap portion 1340 is aligned with the sagittal plane of the user's head in use and applies a partially posterior and partially upward force to head-mounted display unit 1200, pulling the head-mounted display unit onto the user's face and supporting a portion of the weight of head-mounted display unit 1200 in use to achieve a stable and comfortable fit. Top strap portion 1340 may be selectively adjusted in length (e.g., by threading through an eyelet and securing with a hook and loop or other suitable connection) in the manner described in FIGS. 7A-7B or elsewhere herein.

[0401] In some examples, the top strap portion 1340 is substantially non-rigid, e.g., soft, relaxed, or the like. In some examples, the top strap portion 1340 is semi-rigid. In some examples, the top strap portion 1340 is flexible, and in some examples, the top strap portion may comprise a stiffness that is less than the stiffness of the upper transverse strap portion 1370, the lateral strap portion 1330, and / or the occipital strap portion 1320. It should be understood that the top strap portion 1340 is optional.

[0402] FIG. 8E shows another example of a head-mounted display system 1000 similar to that shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B . In this particular example, the top strap portion 1340 is connected to the back strap portion 1320 rather than the upper transverse strap portion 1370. This may improve comfort by distributing the weight of the head-mounted display unit 1200 more evenly along the length of the top strap portion 1340 and over a wider area of ​​the user's head. In addition, the connection between the top strap portion 1340 and the back strap portion 1320 provides a connection point lower on the user's head, which may provide a more stable anchor for the top strap portion. This is because the curved shape of the back of the head allows the back strap portion to stably engage and support the user's head when force from the top strap portion 1340 is applied to the back strap portion 1320, and is less likely to slip or ride up.

[0403] Another difference is that in this particular example, upper transverse strap portion 1370 is positioned near a coronal plane aligned with the superior ear base of the user's head, but slightly posterior to said coronal plane. However, upper transverse strap portion 1370 may remain aligned anterior-posterior with the user's ears. In this example, upper transverse strap portion 1370, occipital strap portion 1320, and lateral strap portion 1330 may be integrally formed. Upper transverse strap portion 1370 and occipital strap portion 1320 form ring strap portion 1360. Ring strap portion 1360 may be semi-rigid. Ring strap portion 1360 may be structured to substantially retain its in-use shape when head-mounted display system 1000 is not being worn by a user.

[0404] The ring strap portion 1360 is semi-rigid and formed from a textile and foam laminate material (e.g., foam covered with textile), where the foam is stiffer than the textile, thereby providing rigidity to the ring strap portion 1360. Alternatively, the ring strap portion 1360 may be provided with rigidity by a rigidizer disposed within or on the ring strap portion 1360. Such a rigidizer may be stiffer than the other materials in the ring strap portion, thereby providing rigidity to the ring strap portion. The rigidizer may be formed from a plastic material (e.g., a thermoplastic material) in some examples. In some examples, the rigidizer is formed from Hytrel.

[0405] In some examples, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 does not include a top strap portion 1340 .

[0406] 8F-8H show further examples of positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 with similar components to positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 shown in Figures 8A and 8B. For example, positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes lateral strap portion 1330, ring strap portion 1360 including upper transverse strap portion 1370 and occipital strap portion 1320, and top strap portion 1340. These components are as described with reference to Figures 8A-8B and may function in a similar manner.

[0407] 8F-8H show the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 with the arms 1210 of the head-mounted display unit 1200 attached to the lateral strap portions 1330. In other examples, the arms 1210 may be part of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and configured to attach to the display unit housing 1205. In FIG. 8M, the arms 1210 are shown alone. Each arm 1210 may include one or more guides 1213a, 1213b configured to guide or at least help hold each lateral strap portion 1330 in place. Referring to FIG. 8M, the arms 1210 may each include a rear guide 1213a and a front guide 1213b. Each lateral strap portion 1330 may pass through the rear guide 1213a, then through the front guide 1213b, before folding back and securing to itself, for example, by a hook-and-loop connection. The end of each lateral strap portion 1330 may include a break loop material configured to form a hook-and-loop connection with the non-user facing side of the lateral strap portion 1330. The break loop material may be glued or welded to the end of each lateral strap portion 1330. To adjust the effective length of each lateral strap portion 1330, the length that each lateral strap portion 1330 is pulled through the guide 1213 may be adjusted (e.g., by moving the arm 1210 closer to or farther from the ring strap portion 1360) before the lateral strap portion 1330 is folded back and secured to itself.

[0408] In examples, each arm may be formed from a plastic material (eg, polycarbonate or ABS) or other suitable material.

[0409] 8F-8H, arm 1210 may have a length sufficient to promote stability of the head-mounted display system and to effectively transfer a portion of the weight of head-mounted display unit 1200 to ring strap portion 1360. Arm 1210 extends rearward from a connection point on head-mounted display unit 1200 to a position closest to and / or rearward of head-mounted display unit 1200 and interface structure 1100 (see similarly positioned arm 1210 in FIGS. 8C and 8E).

[0410] Additionally, in this particular example, arms 1210 each include the aforementioned rear guide 1213a located near the end of arm 1210. These features shorten the length of lateral strap portion 1330 between ring strap portion 1360 and the end of arm 1210 (e.g., the length of the pivot arm), allowing the weight of the head-mounted display unit to be transferred to ring strap portion 1360. Arm 1210 is rigid, which helps transfer the weight of head-mounted display unit 1200 to ring strap portion 1360. This provides a stable fit, especially during vigorous use of head-mounted display system 1000.

[0411] The strap portions may have different widths. In the example shown in FIGS. 8F-8H and 8I, the width of the occipital strap portion 1320, measured laterally relative to its length, is greater than the width of the upper transverse strap portion 1370, measured laterally relative to its length. The wider occipital strap portion 1320 may apply force to the user's head over a larger surface area, thereby reducing pressure on the user's head. In examples where the occipital strap portion 1320 is wider than the upper transverse strap portion 1370, the occipital strap portion 1320 may have a lower pressure / force ratio compared to the upper transverse strap portion 1370. In some examples, the width of the occipital strap portion 1320 may be in the range of 30 mm to 50 mm, e.g., 35 to 45 mm, e.g., 37 to 42 mm, e.g., 38 mm. In some examples, the width of the upper transverse strap portion 1370 is in the range of 20-40 mm, such as 25-35 mm, such as 28-33 mm, such as 31 mm.

[0412] Different strap portions may have different thicknesses. In the example shown in FIGS. 8F-8H, the ring strap portion 1360 has a greater thickness than the lateral strap portion 1330. In this particular example, the ring strap portion 1360 has a greater thickness than the top strap portion 1340. In some examples, the ring strap portion 1360 may have a thickness in the range of 6-10 mm, e.g., 7-9 mm, e.g., 8 mm. The thickness of either or each of the lateral strap portion 1330 and the top strap portion 1340 may be in the range of 2-6 mm, e.g., 3-5 mm, e.g., 4 mm. In other examples, the thickness of the top strap portion 1340 may be in the range of 2-4 mm, e.g., 2.5-3 mm, e.g., 2.7 mm.

[0413] Thus, the example positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 shown in FIGS. 8G-8H includes strap portions having sufficient thickness and width to advantageously provide a high level of comfort and / or provide space within the strap portions for components such as electronic devices, sensors, transducers, cables, batteries, rigidizers, counterweights, etc. The strap portions may be formed of multiple layers, e.g., forming a laminated structure. Sufficient thickness also helps the ring strap portion 1360 retain its shape. While the ring strap portion 1360 and the lateral strap portions 1330 may not be particularly stretchable in length, and the ring strap portion 1360 may be sufficiently stiff to retain its shape when not in use, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may, in some particular examples, be sufficiently flexible so that it can be worn by a user without detaching the strap portions from the other strap portions or the head-mounted display unit 1200. For example, a head-mounted display system 1000 with a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 as shown in Figures 8A-8B or 8F-8H may be worn by a user by pulling or stretching it over their head, similar to, for example, wearing a baseball cap.

[0414] 8K and 8L show two example cross sections of the ring strap portion 1360. These cross sections may also be applied to other strap portions, such as the lateral strap portion 1330 or the top strap portion 1340, or other strap portions of the example positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 disclosed herein.

[0415] In the example of FIG. 8K, ring strap portion 1360 includes an inner layer (1360(2)) that provides most or substantially all of the strap's thickness and may be formed of foam, spacer fabric, or the like. The inner layer may be covered by a user-facing layer 1360(1) configured to engage the user's head and a non-user-facing layer 1360(3) configured to face away from the user's head. These layers may be formed, for example, of a textile material. The user-facing and non-user-facing layers may be welded (e.g., RF or ultrasonic) at the edges to encapsulate the inner layers. In one example, the overall thickness of the strap is 8 mm.

[0416] In the example of FIG. 8L, the ring strap portion 1360 may include two laminates joined at their edges. Each laminate may take the shape of the laminate shown in FIG. 8K, but may be half the width of the overall strap (e.g., 4 mm thickness for each laminate would produce an 8 mm thick ring strap portion 1360). In some examples, each of the two laminates forming the strap portion may include an inner layer 1360(2) formed of foam, spacer fabric, or the like, and a single outer layer facing outward relative to the strap. For example, one laminate may include a single user-facing layer 1360(1) and an inner layer 1360(2). The other laminate may include a single non-user-facing layer 1360(3) and an inner layer 1360(2). The user-facing and non-user-facing layers may be formed, for example, from a textile material. The two laminates may be joined at the edges (e.g., by welding) but not in the center, leaving a space 1360(4) for placing cables, electronic devices, rigidizers, or other suitable desired components. In some examples, a flat cable (such as a ribbon cable or a cable with a flat cross section) may be provided between the two layers that form the strap portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300.

[0417] In some examples, the entire positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is formed from machine-washable components, allowing the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 to be machine-washed separately from the head-mounted display unit 1200, or at least easily hand-washed without risk of damaging electronic or water-resistant components. This may result in a hygienic positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. An additional advantage of the ring strap portion 1360 shown in various examples, such as FIGS. 8A-8H , is that the ring strap portion 1360 provides a large opening for the user's hair, e.g., a bun, ponytail, or long hair. The positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may be flexible enough to bend and stretch comfortably over a bun or ponytail during donning / setup, and then may engage the user's head without interfering with the bun, ponytail, long hair, or other hair features.

[0418] In some examples of the present technology, the ring strap portion 1360 includes multiple segments that are formed separately and joined together to form the ring strap portion 1360. The segments may or may not correspond directly to the upper transverse strap portion 1370 and the occipital strap portion 1320. In some examples, the ring strap portion 1360 may include two segments. In other examples, the ring strap portion 1360 may include three, four, five, six, seven, or more segments.

[0419] As shown in FIGS. 8F-8H and 8I, in this particular example, the ring strap portion includes an upper segment 1360a, a pair of outer segments 1360b, and a lower segment 1360c. The top strap portion 1340 may extend from the upper segment 1360a, and the lateral strap portions 1330 may extend from each of the lateral segments 1360b. FIG. 8I shows the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 in a flattened form, with the occipital strap portion 1320 split into two sections, illustrating the locations of the various segments and joints (although the actual joints are not shown, e.g., stitching is not shown). In some examples, the lower segment 1360c includes more elasticity (e.g., less extensional stiffness) than the outer segment 1360b and / or the upper segment 1360a. In other examples, the upper segment 1360a includes more elasticity than the lower segment 1360c and / or the outer segment 1360b. In yet other examples, outer segment 1360b comprises greater elasticity than upper segment 1360a and / or lower segment 1360c.

[0420] In some examples, a counterweight is attached to the ring strap portion 1360. In certain examples where the ring strap portion 1360 includes a lower segment 1360c, the lower segment 1360c may include or form a counterweight, for example, by adding additional material for weight or by mounting additional components such as a battery pack thereto. Providing a counterweight on the lower segment 1360c advantageously allows the counterweight to be located near the user's neck. Placing the counterweight near the vertical axis of rotation of the user's head, for example, on the neck rather than at the rearmost position on the rounded rear surface of the user's head, may limit the increase in the moment of inertia that the counterweight adds to the head-mounted display system 1000 because the counterweight is located near the axis of rotation. A lower moment of inertia may be advantageous when the user's head moves vigorously during use. In some examples, the head-mounted display system 1000 may include two counterweights. The two counterweights may be located on the occipital strap portion 1320, but may be symmetrically spaced across the sagittal plane. In some examples, two counterweights may be provided near the lower end of each of the lateral segments 1360b, such as near the lower segment 1360c. In such an arrangement, the occipital strap portion 1320 may include elasticity near the sagittal plane.

[0421] Advantageously, forming the ring strap portion 1360 into segments may provide the ring strap portion 1360 with some flexibility to conform to the shape of the user's head, as the joints between the segments act as hinges. The ring strap portion 1360 may also be formed with some rigidity so that it supports itself substantially in its in-use shape when not being worn by the user. The joints between the segments also have the advantage of providing a cooling effect. The joints between the segments, and optionally the joints between the segments and other strap portions (e.g., the top strap portion 1340 and / or the lateral strap portions 1330), may be formed by stitching, welding, adhesive bonding, etc. In the example shown in Figures 8F-8H, the segments and strap portions are sewn together.

[0422] Additionally, in this particular example, hinges 1361 may be created around the junction between the top strap portion 1340 and the ring strap portion 1360, and around each junction between the lateral strap portion 1330 and the ring strap portion 1360. FIG. 8J shows a detailed view of the hinges 1361 near the lateral strap portion 1330. The hinges 1361 in these examples are created by a welding operation that heats and shrinks the strap near the junction. Each hinge 1361 may provide additional flexibility to the ring strap portion 1360 near its junction with the lateral strap portion 1330 and the top strap portion 1340, respectively. Locating the hinges 1361 near the lateral strap portion 1330 is particularly advantageous because the lateral strap portion 1330 may be required to accommodate relatively complex shape changes to connect the arm 1210 and the ring strap portion 1340. Additionally, the hinges connecting the lateral strap portions 1360 can facilitate a positioning and stabilizing structure that fits a variety of head sizes by allowing the lateral strap portions to pivot relative to the ring strap portions to adjust to the size of the user's head. The hinge 1361 can also help accommodate changes in the shape of the top strap portion 1340, although in other examples, there may not be a hinge near the top strap portion 1340.

[0423] 8K or 8L, or in other examples in which ring strap portion 1360 includes a textile outer layer, the textile may be formed by knitting. Ring strap portion 1360 may include a textile outer layer having stitching that allows substantially no elastic stretch (e.g., elongation) near lateral strap portions 1330, but allows at least some elastic stretch at other locations (e.g., upper and / or lower locations) around ring strap portion 1360. The textile material may be nylon, polyester, or other suitable material.

[0424] In some examples, the lateral segment 1360b of the ring strap portion 1360 may include one or more textile layers with stitching that does not allow for substantial stretch. However, the upper segment 1360a and / or the lower segment 1360c may include one or more textile layers that allow for at least some elastic stretch. In some examples, the entire ring strap portion 1360 includes one or more textile layers formed with stitching that allows for stretch in one direction but not in the vertical direction. In such examples, the stitching may be aligned such that the stretch direction is substantially perpendicular to the length of the ring strap portion 1360 near the lateral strap portion 1330, but substantially parallel to the length of the ring strap portion 1360 at locations above and / or below the periphery of the ring strap portion 1360, thereby allowing stretch of the ring strap portion 1360 but disallowing stretch near the lateral strap portion 1330, advantageously promoting a secure fit.

[0425] In other examples, the entire ring strap portion 1360 may be formed as a single segment, for example, one piece of unitary construction.

[0426] 8C and 8D show further examples of head-mounted display system 1000 similar to that shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B. In these examples, positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 does not include top strap portion 1340. The absence of top strap portion 1340 may have the advantage of making positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 easier and / or more comfortable to use for users with thick hair and reducing the likelihood of messing up the user's hair. Another difference is that in these examples, ring strap portion 1360 has upper transverse strap portion 1370 wider at a location that intersects the sagittal plane of the user's head in use (e.g., at a top and medial position) than at other locations around ring strap portion 1360 (e.g., at a lateral position or a posterior and medial position).

[0427] For example, the upper transverse strap portion 1370 is wider than the lateral portions of the upper transverse strap portion 1370 where they intersect the sagittal plane, and wider than the occipital strap portion 1320. The degree to which the upper transverse strap portion 1370 is wider than other portions of the ring strap portion 1360 may vary. FIG. 8C shows an example in which the upper transverse strap portion 1370 is particularly wide near the sagittal plane, while FIG. 8D shows an example in which the upper transverse strap portion 1370 is narrower than other portions of the ring strap portion 1360, but is still wide. As shown in FIGS. 8C and 8D , the ring strap portion 1360 may have a width that gradually increases toward the upper transverse strap portion 1370 (e.g., the width may gradually increase from the occipital strap portion 1320 toward the upper transverse strap portion 1370).

[0428] In both the examples shown in FIGS. 8C and 8D , the head-mounted display unit 1200 includes an arm 1210 that protrudes rearward from the display unit housing 1205, and the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes a lateral strap portion 1330 that connects to the arm 1210. In other examples, the arm 1210 may be part of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and configured to attach to the display unit housing 1205. In the example shown in FIG. 8C , the lateral strap portion 1330 narrows in width along its length from the ring strap portion 1360 to the arm 1210. This provides a relatively wide connection area with the ring strap portion for greater stability. In the example shown in FIG. 8D , the width of the lateral strap portion 1330 is generally constant. In the example shown in FIG. 8D , the lateral strap portion 1330 bends upward from the arm 1210 and connects to the ring strap portion 1360 at a position above the arm 1210 during use. The lateral strap portions 1330 may be selectively adjusted in length in the manner described with reference to Figures 8A-8B or elsewhere herein.

[0429] In a further example, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 shown in Figures 8C and 8D may include a top strap portion 1340, for example, substantially as described with reference to Figures 8A-8B or elsewhere herein.

[0430] The ring strap portion 1360 of FIGS. 8C and 8D may be semi-rigid and / or structured to substantially retain its in-use shape when not being worn by a user, for example, as described with reference to FIGS. 8A-8B or 8E.

[0431] FIG. 9 illustrates another example of a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 similar to that illustrated in FIGS. 8C and 8D . In this example, the ring strap portion 1360 has a wider upper transverse strap portion 1370 near the sagittal plane of the user's head (e.g., at a medial position) compared to an outer position, such as near the occipital strap portion 1320. The upper transverse strap portion 1370 includes a leading edge and a trailing edge. In this particular example, the leading edge curves more than the trailing edge, forming a wider width at an inner position along the upper transverse strap portion 1370. The leading edge curves forward in a lateral-to-medial direction. More specifically, the leading edge first curves forward along a lateral-to-medial direction, then curves backward toward an inner direction closer to the sagittal plane of the user's head, forming a rounded leading edge. Thus, from a relatively outer portion, the leading edge curves forward toward an inner portion of the upper transverse strap portion 1370. In this manner, the intermediate portion of the upper transverse strap portion, configured to engage at least near the sagittal plane of the user's head, may form the most forward portion of the upper transverse strap portion. In a further example, the upper transverse strap portion 1370 may bend forward again near the lateral strap portion 1330 to form a wider strap at the connection region with the lateral strap portion. The rear edge may not bend substantially forward or rearward. The difference in curvature between the front and rear edges may form a wider inner portion of the upper transverse strap portion 1370.

[0432] 8A-9, the upper transverse strap portion 1370 and the occipital strap portion 1320 are integrally formed. For example, in some examples, the ring strap portion 1360 may include a seamless strap that forms the upper transverse strap portion 1370 and the occipital strap portion 1320. The transverse strap portions 1330 and / or the top strap portion 1340 may then be attached to the ring strap portion by sewing, welding (such as ultrasonic welding), adhesive, or other suitable connecting method.

[0433] Ring strap portion 1360 of FIG. 9 may be semi-rigid and / or structured to substantially retain its in-use shape when not being worn by a user, for example, as described with reference to FIGS. 8A-8B or 8E.

[0434] 8A-9, various strap portions of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, such as the lateral strap portion 1330, the top strap portion 1340, and the ring strap portion 1360 (e.g., the upper transverse strap portion 1370 and the occipital strap portion), may each comprise a textile material. In some examples, any or all of these strap portions may include a textile outer layer (on one or both sides) and a foam inner layer. Any or all of these strap portions may include, for example, a textile-foam laminate.

[0435] In other examples of the present technology, some or all portions of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may comprise materials other than or in addition to textile or textile and foam, hi some examples, some or all of the strap portions may comprise silicone, hard plastic, foam, leather, or other suitable materials.

[0436] In other examples, rigidizers may be added to the lateral strap portions 1330 and / or ring strap portions 1360 to provide additional stability. 5.4.3 Band strap part

[0437] 10A and 10B show head-mounted display systems 1000 each including a head-mounted display unit 1200 as described with reference to FIGS. 7A-7B (or elsewhere herein). Head-mounted display unit 1200 may include a display unit housing 1205 with a display, and an interface structure 1100 connected to display unit housing 1205 and constructed and arranged to engage a user's face in use.

[0438] 10A-10B, each of these example positioning and stabilizing structures 1300 includes a band strap portion 1380. The band strap portion 1380 in each of these examples is constructed and arranged to encircle a user's head in use and engage a region of the user's head above the frontal bone and a region of the user's head located above or below the occipital bone. The band strap portion 1380 engages the user's head and provides an anchor to which the other strap portions are connected.

[0439] 10A-10B, positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes a pair of lateral strap portions 1330 that are constructed and arranged to be connected to band strap portions 1380 on each lateral side of a user's head in use and to be connected to each lateral side of head-mounted display unit 1200. Lateral strap portions 1330 may be tensioned in use to pull head-mounted display unit 1200 into engagement with the user's face. Relatively stationary band strap portions 1380 provide anchors for lateral strap portions 1330 to pull head-mounted display unit 1200 toward the user's face.

[0440] The positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may further include an adjustment mechanism constructed and arranged to allow a user to selectively adjust the length of the band strap portion 1380. The band strap portion may have a pair of ends connected to respective sides of the adjustment mechanism. The band strap portion may be considered to have two opposing portions, each extending on opposite sides of the user's head and intersecting the sagittal plane at two locations (one location at the rear of the user's head and one location at the front of the user's head). The adjustment mechanism may be configured to simultaneously and equally adjust the effective length of both sections of the band strap portion, such that the head-mounted display unit remains properly aligned and viewable when the length of the band strap portion is adjusted.

[0441] For example, as shown in each of FIGS. 10A-10B, the adjustment mechanism includes a dial adjustment mechanism 1390 including a dial 1392, which, when turned, adjusts the length of the band strap portion 1380. The dial 1392 may be, for example, a ratchet dial. As shown, the dial 1392 is provided on the band strap portion 1380 in a region of the user's head that is located above or below the occipital bone. More specifically, the dial 1392 is aligned with the sagittal plane of the user's head in use (e.g., centered relative to the user's head in use). In other examples, the dial 1392 may be provided elsewhere, for example, on the side of the user's head.

[0442] 10B-1 , the dial adjustment mechanism 1390 may include a rack and pinion assembly 1601. The dial 1392 includes a pinion 1602 that meshes with a rack or pair of racks connected to (e.g., within) the band strap portion 1380, such that rotating the dial 1392 pulls or pushes the racks apart, thereby adjusting the effective length of the band strap portion 1380.

[0443] In the illustrated example of FIG. 10B-1 , band strap portion 180 may include a first end portion 1380(1) and a second end portion 1380(2) having a rack 1604 extending therefrom. For example, one rack 1604 may extend from the top of first end 1380(1) and another rack 1604 may extend from the bottom of second end 1380(2), as will be understood by those skilled in the art. Pinion 1602 may be positioned to engage the racks 1604 on both the first and second ends, and rotation of the pinion (via dial 1392) moves the ends of the band strap portion toward each other (e.g., overlapping) or away from each other to adjust the effective length of band strap portion 1380. Rotating the dial equalizes the length adjustment of both ends 1380(1), 1380(2) of the band strap portion, maintaining proper alignment of the head-mounted display unit for user visibility.

[0444] In other examples, the dial 1392 is connected to one or more wires, cables, etc. that are connected to points on the band strap portion 1380. The wire or cable may be wound around a spool connected to the dial 1392, such that rotating the dial 1392 increases or decreases the amount of wire or cable wound around the spool, thereby adjusting the effective length of the band strap portion 1380. The dial adjustment mechanisms described herein may also be applied to the dial adjustment mechanisms of other examples of the present disclosure.

[0445] In other examples, the adjustment mechanism does not include a dial, but instead includes another suitable mechanism, such as a hook-and-loop connection, a magnetic connector, a connection between multiple domes, and / or an adjustable buckle.

[0446] The band strap portion 1380 may be at least partially rigid (e.g., at least semi-rigid) in areas of the user's head located above or below the occipital bone. This may provide a secure fit around the back of the user's head. The band strap portion 1380 may include an internal rigidizer within an outer layer of the band strap portion 1380, or an external rigidizer such as provided on the non-user-facing side of the strap. In a further example, the entire band strap portion 1380 is stiffened in this manner.

[0447] 10A-10B, positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes a forehead pad 1395 attached to band strap portion 1380 constructed and positioned to engage the user's forehead. Forehead pad 1395 may include a cushion formed, for example, of foam, silicone, gel, etc., such that band strap portion 1380 may be comfortably secured to the user's forehead.

[0448] The positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 in the illustrated example includes a top strap portion 1340 connected to a band strap portion 1380 near the user's forehead and constructed and arranged to connect to the head-mounted display unit 1200. The top strap portion 1340 may be constructed and arranged to connect to the head-mounted display unit 1200 at, for example, a single point. The top strap portion 1340 aligns with the sagittal plane of the user's head during use, exerting a force partially rearward and partially upward on the head-mounted display unit 1200 to tension and engage it with the user's face, and supporting a portion of the weight of the head-mounted display unit 1200 during use to achieve a stable and comfortable fit. The top strap portion 1340 may be selectively adjustable in length (e.g., by threading it through an eyelet and securing it with a hook and loop or other suitable connection) in the manner described in FIGS. 7A-7B or elsewhere herein.

[0449] In some examples, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 does not include a top strap portion 1340 .

[0450] 10A-10B includes a pair of arms 1210 provided on each lateral side of head-mounted display unit 1200, with lateral strap portions 1330 attached to arms 1210. In other examples, arms 1210 may be part of positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and configured to attach to display unit housing 1205. Arms 1210, their connection to head-mounted display unit 1200, and the attachment of lateral strap portions 1330 to arms 1210 may be as described with reference to FIGS. 8A-8B.

[0451] The example positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 shown in FIG. 10B further includes a parietal strap portion 1310 constructed and positioned to engage the region of the user's head above the parietal bone. The parietal strap portion is connected to the band strap portion near the lateral strap portion 1330 and extends around the rear of the user's head, spaced apart from the occipital portion of the band strap portion 1380. The parietal strap portion 1310 and the occipital band strap portion interlock to conform to the shape of the rear of the head at relatively high and low positions, providing a secure engagement with the user's head. The parietal strap portion 1310 and the occipital band strap portion function to stabilize the other, reducing the likelihood that either strap portion will slide upward or downward during use, if both strap portions are present. The parietal strap portion 1310 is elastically stretchable to provide a stable and comfortable fit for a variety of users. In some examples, the parietal strap portion 1310 is selectively adjustable by the user.

[0452] In some examples, such as the example shown in FIG. 10A , the front (e.g., forehead portion 1387) and rear (e.g., occipital portion 1320) portions of the band strap portion 1380 are integrally formed. For example, the band strap portion 1380 may include a seamless strap that encircles the user's head, except for the adjustment mechanism junction, and may include a forehead and occipital strap portion. The lateral strap portions 1330 and / or top strap portion 1340 may then be attached to the band strap portion by sewing, welding (such as ultrasonic welding), adhesive, or other suitable connecting method. In the example of FIG. 10A , the lateral strap portion 1330 is also integrally formed with the band strap portion 1380. In the example of FIG. 10B , the lateral strap portion 1330, the top strap portion 1310, and the rear / occipital portions of the band strap portion 1380 are integrally formed, and the front / forehead portions of the band strap portion 1380 are attached by sewing, welding, adhesive, or other suitable connecting method.

[0453] 10A and 10B , various strap portions, such as band strap portion 1380, lateral strap portion 1330, top strap portion 1340, and parietal strap portion 1310, may each comprise a textile material. In some examples, any or all of these strap portions may include a textile outer layer (on one or both sides) and a foam inner layer. Any or all of these strap portions may include, for example, a textile-foam laminate.

[0454] In other examples of the present technology, some or all of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may comprise materials other than or in addition to textile or textile and foam, hi some examples, some or all of the straps may comprise silicone, hard plastic, foam, leather, or other suitable materials.

[0455] In other examples, rigidizers may be added to the front of the lateral strap portions 1330, the crown strap portion 1310, and / or the band strap portion 1380 to provide additional stability. 5.4.4 Pivotable connection to head-mounted display unit

[0456] 11A-11B illustrate further examples of head-mounted display system 1000. The positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 in these examples is similar to that described with reference to FIGS. 10A and 10B. For example, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 in each example shown in FIGS. 11A-11B includes a band strap portion 1380 constructed and arranged to surround a user's head in use and engage a region of the user's head above the frontal bone and a region of the user's head above or below the occipital bone. The band strap portion 1380 may form an occipital strap portion 1320 configured to engage a region located above or below the occipital bone. The band strap portion 1380 may fit snugly around the user's head in use. The positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 further includes a parietal strap portion 1310 similar to the example shown in FIG. 10B. Many of the features in common with the example shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B will not be repeated, and the following disclosure will focus on the differences.

[0457] The band strap portion 1380 may include a textile outer layer, for example, in the form of a braided textile sleeve. The band strap portion 1380 may include or function as a rigidizer. For example, the band strap portion 1380 may include a rigidizer layer or member configured to resist deformation of the band strap portion 1380. The rigidizer layer or member may be formed of a thermoplastic elastomer, such as Hytrel, in some examples. The rigidizer may be inside the textile sleeve. In one example, the band strap portion 1380 may include a Hytrel rigidizer with a textile sleeve. The band strap portion 1380 may be partially flexible to conform to the shape of the user's head.

[0458] 11A and 11B , head-mounted display unit 1200 is pivotally attached to band strap portion 1380 by a pair of pivot connections 1381, allowing head-mounted display unit 1200 to pivot about an axis aligned perpendicular to the sagittal plane of the user's head during use. In some examples, head-mounted display unit 1200 may be configured to pivot in order to adjust its angle relative to positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 to perfectly fit the size and shape of a particular user's head. In some examples, head-mounted display unit 1200 may additionally or alternatively be configured to pivot between a viewing position in which head-mounted display unit 1200 is positioned above the user's eyes and a non-viewing position in which head-mounted display unit 1200 is positioned above the user's frontal bone. Advantageously, this allows a user to "flip" head-mounted display unit 1200 away from their eyes to view their real-world surroundings or take a break without having to completely remove head-mounted display system 1000.

[0459] The pivot connection 1381 may be positioned near the mid-coronal plane of the user's head during use, as shown in FIGS. 11A-11B. In the example shown in FIG. 11A, the band strap portion 1380 includes a pair of slots 1383 (e.g., linear slots), and the pivot connection 1381 is positioned within the slots 1383. The slots 1383 allow the pivot connection 1381 to move relative to the band strap portion 1380. The movement of the pivot connection 1381 may be in a front-to-back direction (e.g., from anterior-superior to posterior-inferior). This has the advantage of allowing further adjustment of the position and / or angle of the head-mounted display unit 1200 relative to the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300.

[0460] In certain examples, the pivot connection 1381 allows the head-mounted display unit 1200 to move at least partially forward during pivoting. As can be seen in FIG. 11A-1 , this facilitates moving the head-mounted display unit 1200 from a viewing position to a non-viewing position. This is because, when moving the head-mounted display unit 1200 to the non-viewing position, a forward movement of the head-mounted display unit 1200 may be required for the head-mounted display unit to clear the user's forehead and / or forehead portion 1387 of the band strap portion. The head-mounted display unit 1200 can move "up and away" from the user's eye area. The pivot connection 1381 may slide together such that the axis about which the head-mounted display unit 1200 pivots remains perpendicular to the sagittal plane of the user's head. When head-mounted display unit 1200 is pivoted from the viewing position (FIG. 11A) to the non-viewing position (FIG. 11A-1), pivot connection 1381 may move at least partially forward within slot 1383. Pivot connection 1381 may, for example, slide in a direction along the length of band strap portion 1380, which may be partially forward and partially upward.

[0461] In the non-viewing position, head-mounted display unit 1200 may rest above forehead portion 1387 of the band strap portion, as shown in FIG. 11A-1 , or the head-mounted display may be rotated further upward so that at least a majority of the head-mounted display is above forehead portion 1387. In other examples, slot 1383 may be curved (e.g., curved forward and upward) to facilitate movement to the non-viewing position. An upwardly curved slot may allow the head-mounted display unit to be moved to the non-viewing position with less (or no) rotation about pivot connection 1381.

[0462] Pivot connection 1381 may be lockable by a user. In some examples, pivot connection 1381 allows head mounted display unit 1200 to rotate through a continuous range about pivot connection 1381. Alternatively, pivot connection 1381 may provide indexed rotation of head mounted display unit 1200, allowing a user to rotate head mounted display unit 1200 between two or more positions where pivot connection 1381 supports head mounted display unit 1200, and preventing head mounted display unit 1200 from rotating unless the user forcibly rotates head mounted display unit 1200. A lockable pivot connection 1381, or a pivot connection 1381 that resists rotation of head mounted display unit 1200 during use, can advantageously support a portion of the weight of head mounted display unit 1200 by resisting the moment generated at pivot connection 1381 by the weight of head mounted display unit 1200, and transfer that moment to the entire positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. This has the advantage of reducing the perceived weight of head mounted display unit 1200, or at least making head mounted display system 1000 feel more balanced than if pivot connection 1381 were not locked or at least not partially resisting rotation.

[0463] 11A and 11B, head-mounted display unit 1200 includes a pair of arms 1210 that connect head-mounted display unit 1200 to band strap portion 1280. Head-mounted display unit 1200 may include a display unit housing 1205 with a display. Arms 1210 may connect display unit housing 1205 to band strap portion 1280. Arms 1210 may be rigidly connected to display unit housing 1205. In the example shown in FIGS. 11A-11B, arms 1210 form part of display unit housing 1205. However, in other examples, arms 1210 form part of positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and may be configured to be removably attached to the display unit housing.

[0464] 11A and 11B, the arms 1210 are pivotally connected to the band strap portion 1380 at pivot connections 1381. The pivot connections 1381 allow each arm 1210 to rotate about an axis that is aligned with both pivot connections 1381 (which may be aligned perpendicular to the sagittal plane of the user's head during use). In these examples, the arms 1210 are wider in the vertical direction to form side shields configured to reduce the effects of light leakage at the lateral periphery of the interface structure 1100. This can advantageously protect the user's eyes from unwanted ambient light in their peripheral vision, enhancing immersion in the content provided by the display.

[0465] The positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may be attached to the band strap portion 1380 and may include a forehead pad 1395 configured to engage the user's forehead. The forehead pad 1395 may include an outer layer formed of a textile material that contacts the user's head. In some examples, the forehead pad 1395 may include foam, gel, elastomer (e.g., silicone or TPE), and / or textile padding. The forehead pad 1395, or at least its face-contacting layer, may be breathable and thin.

[0466] As shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B , the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include a parietal strap portion 1310 configured to engage the user's head in a region overlying the user's parietal bone during use. The parietal strap portion 1310 may extend between the lateral portions of the band strap portion 1380, e.g., over the temporal bone of the user's head. The parietal strap portion 1310 may be substantially inextensible or may have low extensibility to allow for a snug fit while still providing support. The parietal strap portion 1310 may be formed of a textile material, such as a tubular braided textile material. In some examples, the parietal strap portion 1310 includes a pair of elastically stretchable lateral portions proximate the band strap portion 1380 and a rear portion that is less stretchable than the elastically stretchable lateral portions. The spacing relationship between the parietal strap portion 1310 and the rear strap portion 1320 may contribute to stabilizing the positioning and stabilizing structure, as described above.

[0467] 11A, top strap portion 1310 may be connected to band strap portion 1380 at a location spaced forward from pivot connection 1381. This arrangement allows tension in top strap portion 1310 to create a moment about pivot connection 1381 in a direction opposite to the moment created by the weight of head-mounted display unit 1200, which has the advantage of helping to support head-mounted display unit 1200 and improving comfort during use. Alternatively, in the example shown in FIG. 11B, top strap portion 1310 is connected to band strap portion 1380 approximately at the location of pivot connection 1381.

[0468] The head-mounted display system 1000 further includes one or more battery packs 1500 for powering the head-mounted display system 1000. As shown in FIG. 11A , the head-mounted display system 1000 includes a battery pack 1500 attached to the rear head strap portion 1320. As shown in FIG. 11B , the head-mounted display system 1000 includes a pair of battery packs 1500 attached to the rear head strap portion 1320, one battery pack disposed on each lateral side of the dial 1392. Positioning the battery packs 1500 behind the user's head on the rear head strap portion 1320 may help balance the weight of the head-mounted display system 1200. The rear head strap portion 1320 and / or the battery packs 1500 may engage occipital landmarks on the user's head. A power cable may be integrated into or run along band strap portion 1380 from battery pack 1500 and connected to head-mounted display unit 1200 .

[0469] The band strap portion 1380 may be adjustable in length and may include a dial adjustment mechanism 1390 that includes a rotatable dial 1392. The dial adjustment mechanism 1390 may be configured such that rotating the dial 1392 changes the length of the band strap portion 1380. The dial adjustment mechanism 1390 may be as described elsewhere herein and may be provided, for example, on the occipital strap portion 1320 of the band strap portion 1380. The dial 1392 may be located near (e.g., intersect with) the sagittal plane of the user's head in use.

[0470] Head-mounted display unit 1200 includes interface structure 1100, as shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B. Head-mounted display unit 1200 and interface structure 1100 in these examples are configured to be compact and low-profile. Interface structure 1100 may engage with a user's face, for example, around the user's eye area and on the user's nasal ridge, to partially support head-mounted display unit 1200 and block ambient light from reaching the user's eyes during use (e.g., provide a light seal). In these examples, interface structure 1100 includes a foam laminate material. The foam laminate material may be thermoformed. Interface structure 1100 may further include a nasal ridge support configured to engage the user's nasal ridge during use. Interface structure 1100 may further include a breathable textile surface.

[0471] In some examples, the interfacing structure 1100 may include a face-engaging portion formed of a 3D textile, which some users may find particularly comfortable. Alternatively, the interfacing structure 1100 may be formed of a combination of silicone and foam, such as a silicone flange surrounding a foam cushion, which allows for greater variability in the user's anatomy due to the compressibility and conformability of the foam. In a further example, the interfacing structure 1100 may be formed entirely of silicone, such as a curled silicone flange. The silicone surface may be particularly easy to clean. In either case, the interfacing structure 1100 may include varying properties in different locations around the user's eye area due to variations in material thickness and / or shape.

[0472] 11A and 11B, the front (e.g., forehead portion 1387) and back (e.g., occipital region 1320) portions of the band strap portion 1380 are integrally formed. For example, the band strap portion 1380 may include a seamless strap that encircles the user's head, except for the adjustment mechanism junction, and may include the forehead portion 1387 and the occipital region strap portion 1320. The occipital region strap portion 1310 may then be attached to the band strap portion 1380 by sewing, welding (such as ultrasonic welding), adhesive, or other suitable connection method.

[0473] The various strap portions of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 shown in FIG. 11A or 11B (e.g., band strap portion 1380 and crown strap portion 1310) may each comprise a textile material. In some examples, any or all of these strap portions may include a textile outer layer (on one or both sides) and a foam inner layer. Any or all of these strap portions may include, for example, a textile-foam laminate. The band strap portion 1380 may also include a rigidizer configured to make the band strap portion 1380 semi-rigid or to substantially retain its in-use shape when not being worn on a user's head.

[0474] In other examples of the present technology, some or all portions of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may comprise materials other than or in addition to textile or textile and foam, hi some examples, some or all of the strap portions may comprise silicone, hard plastic, foam, leather, or other suitable materials.

[0475] In other examples, rigidizers may be added to the front and / or rear of the lateral strap portions 1330, the crown strap portion 1310, and / or the band strap portion 1380 to provide additional stability. 5.4.5 Band strap section and back of head strap section

[0476] 12A-12K show further examples of head-mounted display systems. FIG. 12A shows another example of head-mounted display system 1000 with band strap portions 1380. In this example, positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is constructed and arranged to connect to each lateral side of head-mounted display unit 1200 and includes a pair of lateral strap portions 1330 that are connected to each other behind the user's head to form band strap portion 1380 that partially encircles the user's head. In this example, band strap portion 1380 is tensioned to pull head-mounted display unit 1200 into engagement with the user's face.

[0477] The band strap portion 1380 engages the area of ​​the user's head over the parietal bone during use and may, in certain instances, be semi-rigid in the area of ​​the head over the parietal bone of the user, which may provide a comfortable and secure fit for the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. In some instances, the entire band strap portion 1380 may be semi-rigid.

[0478] In other examples, the entire band strap portion 1380 and / or the rear strap portion 1320 may be at least semi-rigid (e.g., have some semi-rigid and some rigid portions). When at least the band strap portion is rigidified, the lateral strap portions 1330 do not elastically pull the head-mounted display unit 1200 into engagement with the user's face. Instead, the head-mounted display system fits like an adjustable helmet, with the weight of the display unit more evenly distributed across the head-mounted display system 1000. The dial adjustment mechanism 1390 and the top strap portion 1340 can be adjusted to fit a particular user's head size. The band strap portion 1380 and the rear strap portion may be provided with a cushioning layer (e.g., foam or gel padding) to achieve a snug, stable, yet comfortable fit. In other examples, the top strap portion may also be provided with a cushioning layer. This arrangement may provide a different sensation to the user because it relies less on strap tension to achieve a snug fit. Instead, the dial adjustment mechanism and top strap portion are adjusted to set the positioning and stabilizing structure to a substantially fixed size, while a snug, stable, and comfortable fit is achieved through engagement of pads within interfacing structure 1100 and along band strap portion 1380 and occipital strap portion 1320 (and, in some examples, top strap portion 1340) with the user's head. Once donned, fine adjustments can be made via the dial adjustment mechanism (and top strap portion) to pull head-mounted display unit 1200 into a desired engagement position on the user's face.

[0479] In further examples, the band strap portion 1380 and / or the rear strap portion 1320 may be formed of a semi-rigid and / or rigid plastic material. In other examples, the band strap portion and the rear strap portion may be straps that include textile (e.g., a textile sleeve or inner and / or outer textile layers) and / or cushioning (e.g., foam) layers, and may be provided with rigidizers to provide rigidity.

[0480] As shown in FIG. 12A , each lateral strap portion 1330 is on a path that extends rearward and partially upward away from head-mounted display unit 1200 toward the rear region of the user's head. This allows lateral strap portion 1330 to connect to head-mounted display unit 1200 at a position close to eye level while engaging the partially upward-facing surface of the user's parietal bone. Band strap portion 1380 provides at least some upward force to head-mounted display unit 1200 during use and absorbs at least a portion of the weight of head-mounted display unit 1200. Lateral strap portion 1330 may be connected to arm 1210 of head-mounted display unit 1200, as described elsewhere herein. In other examples, arm 1210 may be part of positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and configured to attach to display unit housing 1205. Lateral strap portion 1330 or at least a front portion thereof, arm 1210, and the connections between lateral strap portion 1330, arm 1210, and head-mounted display unit 1200 may be substantially the same as described above with reference to Figures 8A-8B or elsewhere herein.

[0481] The positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 further includes an adjustment mechanism constructed and arranged to allow a user to selectively adjust the length of the band strap portions 1380. The adjustment mechanism may be disposed between the lateral strap portions 1330, connecting the lateral strap portions at a location behind the user's head, thereby forming the band strap portion. In this manner, the adjustment mechanism may be configured to simultaneously and evenly adjust the length of the lateral strap portions to adjust the length of the band strap portions. The example adjustment mechanism shown in FIG. 12A is a dial adjustment mechanism 1390 with a dial 1392 substantially similar to that described with reference to FIG. 10B, although in other examples it may be another suitable adjustment mechanism, such as one of the alternatives described above in connection with FIG. 10B.

[0482] Positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 in this particular example includes an occipital strap portion 1320 connected to a band strap portion 1380 and constructed and arranged to engage the region of the user's head above the occipital bone. The rear of band strap portion 1380 and occipital strap portion 1320 together form a stable rear portion of positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, from which other strap portions extend and may be connected under tension toward head-mounted display unit 1200 in use to pull head-mounted display unit 1200 into engagement with the user's face. Occipital strap portion 1320 may be semi-rigid to provide a stable fit against the occipital region of the user's head in use.

[0483] For example, as shown in FIG. 12A, the rear strap portion 1320 may be provided with a curved shape such that the rear strap portion 1320 extends downward from each side of the band strap portion 1380 and then extends rearward and inward to form a loop with the band strap portion 1380.

[0484] In the example referring to FIG. 12A-1 , the rear strap portion 1320 may include a layered arrangement including an inner (user-contacting) layer 1425 (e.g., a textile material), a cushioning layer 1426 (e.g., foam, gel), a rigidizer layer 1427 (e.g., a plastic, thermoplastic rigidizer), and an outer layer 1424 (e.g., a textile material). In some examples, the inner and outer textile layers may be textile sleeves (e.g., a tubular knit textile). In other examples, the cushioning layer may be omitted. It is understood that the layered structure described herein may also be used with other strap portions described elsewhere in this disclosure as being stiffened or having a stiffening device.

[0485] 12A further includes a top strap portion 1340 that can connect between band strap portion 1380 and head-mounted display unit 1200. Top strap portion 1340 can be centered, for example, aligned with the sagittal plane of a user's head during use. Top strap portion 1340 can be as described above with reference to FIGS. 7A-7B, 8A-8B, or 10A.

[0486] 12A , the lateral strap portions 1330 and the rear (e.g., crown) portions of the band strap portion 1380 are integrally formed. For example, the band strap portion 1380 may include a seamless strap that encircles the user's head except for the adjustment mechanism junction, and may include the lateral strap portion 1330 and the crown strap portion. The rear strap portion 1320 and / or the top strap portion 1340 may then be attached to the band strap portion 1380 by sewing, welding (such as ultrasonic welding), adhesive, or other suitable connecting method.

[0487] The various strap portions of the positioning and stabilization structure 1300 shown in FIG. 12A, such as the band strap portion 1380, the top strap portion 1340, and the rear head strap portion 1320, may each include a textile material. In some examples, any or all of these strap portions may include a textile outer layer (one or both sides) and a foam inner layer. Any or all of these strap portions may include, for example, a textile foam laminate.

[0488] In other examples of the present technology, some or all portions of the positioning and stabilization structure 1300 may include materials other than textiles or textiles and foams, or materials in addition to textiles and foams. In some examples, some or all of the strap portions may include silicon, rigid plastic, foam, leather, or other suitable materials.

[0489] In other examples, a rigidizer may be added to the rear portions of the lateral strap portion 1330, the top strap portion 1340, the rear head strap portion 1320, and / or the band strap portion 1380 to provide additional stability.

[0490] The examples shown in FIGS. 12B - 12C are similar to the example shown in FIG. 12A, and it is understood that the above disclosure regarding FIG. 12A applies to FIGS. 12B and 12C as well, unless otherwise clearly specified in the context. Further, in the descriptions of FIGS. 12B and 12C, only the specific differences will be described. In the examples shown in FIGS. 12B and 12C, the positioning and stabilization structure 1300 does not include the top strap portion 1340.

[0491] 12B and 12C, positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is constructed and arranged to connect to each lateral side of head-mounted display unit 1200 and includes a pair of lateral strap portions 1330 that are connected to each other behind the user's head to form band strap portion 1380 that partially encircles the user's head. In the example shown in FIG. 12A, band strap portion 1380 is connected to arm 1210, while in the examples shown in FIGS. 12B-12C, lateral strap portion 1330 is attached to interface structure 1100 of head-mounted display system 1000. FIG. 12C schematically illustrates how band strap portion 1380 and interface structure 1100 together fit and encircle the user's head, which may also be described as "hugging" the user's head to provide a secure fit. In this example, positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is attached to head-mounted display unit 1200 in a position toward or adjacent to the user's face, rather than away from the user of head-mounted display unit 1200, allowing the headgear to encase most of the circumference of the user's head. Furthermore, attaching positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 to the interface structure may result in a compact or thin head-mounted display system 1000, since no additional external components such as arms are provided.

[0492] 12B and 12C, head-mounted display unit 1200 includes side shields 1214. Side shields 1214 may be as described elsewhere herein and may extend rearward from each lateral side of head-mounted display unit 1200, past a lateral portion of interface structure 1100. For example, side shields 1214 may be attached to display unit housing 1205 and may extend rearward, e.g., to a position near the user's ears, to help protect the user's peripheral vision from ambient light. Each side shield 1214 may extend rearward to a position near the respective superior-basal point of the user's head. In other examples, side shields 1214 may be attached to positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and function as arms. In some examples, a battery pack (e.g., similar to battery pack 1500 described elsewhere) may be provided within side shields 1214. In other examples, a battery pack (e.g., similar to battery pack 1500 described elsewhere) may be provided in the side shield 1214 and / or in a portion of the crown strap near the user's mid-coronal plane.

[0493] A rear portion of band strap portion 1380 may form crown strap portion 1310. Band strap portion 1380, including the crown strap portion of band strap portion 1380, may be formed of a tubular knit material having a hollow interior and may include a rigidizer 1305 disposed within the hollow interior along some or all of its length, as shown in dashed lines in FIG.

[0494] In this example, head-mounted display system 1000 also includes an adjustment mechanism 1308 on crown strap portion 1310, as shown in Figures 12B and 12C. Adjustment mechanism 1308 may be a dial adjustment mechanism, an adjustable buckle, or other suitable adjustment mechanism, and allows one or two portions of crown strap portion 1310 to overlap to a selected extent, thereby changing the effective length of band strap portion 1380.

[0495] 12B-12C is attached to the band strap portion 1320 as shown in FIG. 12B. The back strap portion 1320 may be pulled downward by the user when wearing the head-mounted display system 1000 from a location above the parietal bone to a location above or below the occipital bone. The back strap portion 1320 may firmly engage with the rear downward surface of the user's head, which has the advantage that if the user is wearing a ponytail, the ponytail can pass unimpeded through the gap between the parietal strap portion 1310 and the back strap portion 1320. The back strap portion may be a tubular knit strap.

[0496] 12B and 12C, the lateral strap portions 1330 and the rear (e.g., crown) portion of the band strap portion 1380 are integrally formed. For example, the band strap portion 1380 may include a seamless strap that encircles the user's head except for the adjustment mechanism junction, and may include the lateral strap portion 1330 and the crown strap portion. The rear strap portion 1320 may then be attached to the band strap portion 1380 by sewing, welding (e.g., ultrasonic welding), adhesive, or other suitable connection method.

[0497] Various strap portions, such as the band strap portion 1380 and the occipital strap portion 1320 of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 shown in Figures 12B and 12C, may each comprise a textile material. In some examples, any or all of these strap portions may include a textile outer layer (on one or both sides) and a foam inner layer. Any or all of these strap portions may include, for example, a textile-foam laminate.

[0498] In other examples of the present technology, some or all of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may comprise materials other than or in addition to textile or textile and foam, hi some examples, some or all of the straps may comprise silicone, hard plastic, foam, leather, or other suitable materials.

[0499] In other examples, rigidizers may be added to the rear of the lateral strap portions 1330, rear head strap portions 1320, and / or band strap portions 1380 to provide additional stability.

[0500] The example of head-mounted display system 1000 shown in Figures 12D-12J is similar to the example shown in Figures 12A-12C. For example, each of the head-mounted display systems 1000 shown in Figures 12D-12J includes a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 that includes a band strap portion 1380 formed by lateral strap portions 1330 and a parietal strap portion 1310, and further includes an occipital strap portion 1320. The disclosure above regarding Figures 12A-12C is deemed relevant to the example shown in Figures 12D-12I unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The following disclosure focuses on specific differences between the example shown in Figures 12D-12I.

[0501] In the example of FIG. 12D , the crown strap portion 1310 includes a dial adjustment mechanism 1390 including a dial 1392, which may operate in a similar manner to the dial adjustment mechanism 1390 described elsewhere herein, such as with reference to FIG. 12A . The rear strap portion 1320 shown in FIG. 12D is attached to the band strap portion 1380 and may include a rigidizer that provides semi-rigid stiffness to the rear strap portion 1320. The rigidizer may provide a curved shape such that the rear strap portion 1320 extends downward from the crown strap portion 1310 and then extends rearward and inward from either side of the user's head to form a loop with the crown strap portion. In this example, when wearing the head-mounted display system 1000, the user may not need to manually pull the rear strap portion 1320 away from the crown strap 1310 and lower it into place. Alternatively, the crown strap portion 1310 and the back strap portion 1320 may be pulled together over the user's head and lowered into place. The back strap portion 1320 and / or the band strap portion 1380 may retain substantially their in-use shape when the user is not wearing the head-mounted display system 1000.

[0502] In the example of FIG. 12D, the interface structure 1100 may be the same as that described with reference to FIGS. 11A and 11B or elsewhere herein.

[0503] The example shown in Figures 12E-12G includes many of the same features as those described with reference to other examples herein, and only the specific differences will be described below.

[0504] FIG. 12E shows a head-mounted display system 1000 according to another example of the present technology. This is a similar example to the example shown in FIG. 12D , except that in the example of FIG. 12E , the rear strap portion 1320 does not have a distinct curve created by extending downward and then rearward, as shown in the example of FIG. 12D . Instead, the rear strap portion 1320 extends substantially rearward and downward, then curves inward on each lateral side of the user's head. In the example of FIG. 12E , the rear strap portion is attached to the band strap portion 1380, for example, near the head-mounted display unit 1200. In some examples, the rear strap portion 1320 is attached to the band strap portion 1380 above and approximately aligned with the user's ears. The rear strap portion 1320 may be attached to a user-facing surface of the band strap portion 1380, as shown in FIG. 12E .

[0505] 12F-12G show head-mounted display system 1000 according to another example of the present technology. In this example, both band strap portion 1380 and back-of-head strap portion 1320 are attached to and extend from head-mounted display unit 1200, but back-of-head strap portion 1320 is attached to band strap portion 1380. Lateral strap portions 1330 of band strap portion 1380 may be attached to head-mounted display unit 1200, for example, to display unit housing 1205 of head-mounted display unit 1200. In other examples, they may be attached to interface structure 1100, for example, in the manner shown and described with reference to FIGS. 12B and 12C. Furthermore, back-of-head strap portion 1320 may instead be attached to side shield 1214. In this example, back-of-head strap portion 1320 may be positioned against a non-user-facing surface of band strap portion 1380 that is closer to the side shield.

[0506] In another example, the back of head strap portion 1320 may be attached to the band strap portion 1320 near the head-mounted display unit 1200, for example, near the side shields 1214.

[0507] In any of these examples, band strap portion 1380 may include variable elasticity along its length. For example, band strap portion 1380 may include one or more elastically stretchable portions. In the example shown in FIGS. 12F-12G, band strap portion 1380 includes elastically stretchable lateral strap portions 1330 proximal to head-mounted display unit 1200 and parietal strap portions 1310 between elastically stretchable lateral strap portions 1330, the parietal strap portions 1310 being less elastically stretchable than lateral strap portions 1330. In some examples, parietal strap portion 1310 is substantially non-stretchable. More generally, band strap portion 1380 may be at least partially rigid in a region of the user's head over the user's parietal bone. The elastically stretchable lateral portions allow the length of the band strap portion 1380 to automatically adjust to fit snugly around the user's head, while the less stretchable (or substantially non-stretchable) crown strap portion 1310 engages the back of the user's head without elastic stretching, providing ...

Claims

1. 1. A head-mounted display system, comprising: a head mounted display unit; and a positioning and stabilization structure; The head-mounted display unit includes a display unit housing having a display; an interface structure connected to said display unit housing and constructed and arranged to engage a face of a user in use; the positioning and stabilising structure constructed and arranged to hold, in use, the head mounted display unit in an operable position on a user's head; a pair of arms connected in use to respective lateral sides of the display unit housing, the arms being constructed and arranged to project rearwardly from the display unit housing on respective lateral sides of the user's head in use, the rear portion of each arm including an upper arm connection portion and a lower arm connection portion; a top strap portion constructed and arranged to connect between each upper arm connection portion of the pair of arms, the top strap portion configured to engage a user's head in a head region above the location of the pair of arms during use; a rear head strap portion connecting between the lower arm connection portions and constructed and arranged to engage a portion of the user's head located above or below the rear head region of the user's head in use; A head-mounted display system, wherein when the head-mounted display system is worn, a portion of each arm at the rear of the head-mounted display unit has a higher rigidity than the top strap portion.

2. The head mounted display system of claim 1 , wherein the arm is pivotally attached to a display unit housing.

3. A head mounted display system as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein each arm is at least partially covered by a textile sleeve.

4. A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the top strap portion is connected to the head mounted display unit in addition to the upper arm connection portions of each of the pair of arms.

5. The head mounted display system of claim 4 , wherein the top strap portion is connected to the head mounted display unit at a single location.

6. A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 4 or 5, wherein the top strap portion is substantially Y-shaped, the top strap portion having a front leg connected to the head mounted display unit and a pair of rear legs connected to the upper arm connections of the pair of arms.

7. A head mounted display system as claimed in any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the length of at least one of the top strap portions is selectively adjustable.

8. A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein the top strap portion is configured to pass through an eyelet on the head mounted display unit and be folded back and secured to itself.

9. The head mounted display system of claim 8 , wherein the top strap portion is configured to be secured to itself by a hook and loop connection.

10. A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the rear strap portion includes a rear strap connector at one end of the rear strap portion, the rear strap connector constructed and arranged for removably attachment to one of the corresponding lower arm connections of the arm.

11. 11. The head mounted display system of claim 10, wherein said rear head strap connector is constructed and arranged to be magnetically attached to a corresponding one of the lower arm connections.

12. 12. A head mounted display system as claimed in claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the length of the rear head strap portion is selectively adjustable.

13. A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the rear head strap portion is configured to pass through an eyelet of the rear head strap connector and fold back and secure onto itself.

14. The head mounted display system of claim 13 , wherein the rear head strap portion is configured to be secured to itself by a hook and loop connection.

15. A head mounted display system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein one or both of the arms are formed of two parts releasably connected to one another.

16. 16. A head mounted display system as described in claim 15, wherein the two portions of each arm are movably connected to each other to allow size adjustment of the positioning and stabilizing structure.

17. A head mounted display system according to any preceding claim, wherein one or both of the arms are releasably connected to the head mounted display unit.

18. A head mounted display system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein one or both of the lower arm connections are moveable relative to the remainder of each arm.

19. A head mounted display system according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the upper arm connection portion and the lower arm connection portion of each arm are positioned behind the upper ear base point of the user's head when in use.

20. A head mounted display system according to any preceding claim, wherein each arm is configured to resist bending upwards and downwards in use.

21. A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein each arm is configured, in use, to be capable of bending inwardly to engage a partially rearward facing surface of a user's head.

22. A head mounted display system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein in use, when the top strap portion is under tension, the upper arm connection portion is pressed towards a surface of the user's head.

23. A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein when the head mounted display system is worn, the rear head strap portion is configured to press the lower arm connection portion against a surface of the user's head when the rear head strap portion is tightened.

24. A head-mounted display system as described in any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein each arm includes one or more hinges to facilitate bending each arm to conform to the shape of a user's head when the head-mounted display system is worn.

25. A head mounted display system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the lower arm connection portion is configured to be positioned above the upper ear base of the user's head when in use.

26. A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 1 to 25, wherein when the head mounted display system is worn, each arm protrudes rearward and bends inward at the back of the user's head.

27. A head-mounted display system characterized in that, when the head-mounted display system is worn, each arm protrudes rearward and bends upward, away from the display unit housing.

28. a positioning and stabilizing structure for maintaining a patient interface in a therapeutically effective position on the patient's head, comprising: a ring strap portion forming a ring shape, including an occipital strap portion constructed and arranged to engage a region of the user's head located above the occipital bone or above the parietal bone proximal to the occipital bone; a pair of lateral strap portions configured to extend along respective sides of a user's head in use, each lateral strap portion having: 1) a rear end portion connected to a respective side of the ring strap portion at a connection point; and 2) a front end portion adapted to be connected to a respective lateral side of a head mounted display unit; A positioning and stabilising structure, wherein when the positioning and stabilising structure is worn in use, each of the connection points is located above a front end portion of each of the lateral strap portions.

29. 30. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 28, wherein each said lateral strap portion extends at least partially upwardly in a direction from said leading end portion to said trailing end portion.

30. 30. The positioning and stabilising structure of claim 28 or claim 29, wherein the ring strap portion is configured to substantially retain its in-use shape when the positioning and stabilising structure is not worn by a user.

31. 31. The positioning and stabilising structure of any one of claims 28 to 30, wherein the positioning and stabilising structure is configured to resist angular change between the upper transverse strap portions and the occipital strap portions when the lateral strap portions are tensioned in use.

32. 32. The positioning and stabilizing structure of any one of claims 28 to 31, wherein a width of the rear head strap portion measured transversely to its length is greater than a width of the upper transverse strap portion measured transversely to its length.

33. The positioning and stabilising structure according to any one of claims 28 to 32, wherein the thickness of the ring strap portions is greater than the thickness of the lateral strap portions.

34. 34. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 33, wherein the ring strap portion has a thickness greater than a thickness of the top strap portion.

35. The positioning and stabilising structure of any one of claims 28 to 34, wherein the ring strap portion comprises a plurality of segments formed separately and joined together to form the ring strap portion.

36. 36. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 35, wherein the segments include an upper segment, a pair of lateral segments, and a lower segment.

37. 37. The positioning and stabilising structure of any one of claims 28 to 36, wherein the ring strap portion includes at least a pair of hinges, each hinge being located proximate one of the connection points between the ring strap portion and each of the lateral strap portions.

38. The positioning and stabilising structure of any one of claims 28 to 37, wherein the length of each lateral strap portion is selectively adjustable.

39. 39. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 38, wherein each lateral strap portion is configured to be secured to itself to form a loop adapted to be connected to the head mounted display unit.

40. 40. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 39, wherein each lateral strap portion is configured to be secured to itself by a hook-and-loop connection.

41. A positioning and stabilising structure as claimed in any one of claims 28 to 40, wherein the rear head strap portion is constructed and arranged to rest at or near the Frankfort horizontal plane of a user's head in use.

42. 42. The positioning and stabilizing structure of any one of claims 28 to 41, further comprising a top strap portion connected to the upper transverse strap portion or the occipital strap portion and configured to extend forward from the upper transverse strap portion, in use, over a portion of the user's head above the user's frontal bone, the top strap portion adapted to be connected to the head mounted display unit.

43. 43. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 42, wherein the ring strap portion has a different stiffness at any position along its length than each lateral strap portion at any position along its length.

44. 44. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 42 or 43, wherein a length of the top strap portion is selectively adjustable.

45. 45. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 44, wherein the top strap portion is configured to be secured to itself to form a loop adapted to be connected to the head mounted display unit.

46. 46. ​​The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 45, wherein the top strap portion is configured to be secured to itself by a hook and loop connection.

47. 47. A positioning and stabilising structure as claimed in any one of claims 28 to 46, wherein the ring strap portion is wider at the upper transverse strap portion where it intersects the sagittal plane of a user's head in use than at other positions around the circumference of the ring strap portion.

48. 48. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 47, wherein the upper transverse strap portion is wider than the lateral portion of the upper transverse strap portion at a location intersecting the sagittal plane.

49. 49. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 48, wherein the upper transverse strap portion includes a leading edge and a trailing edge, the leading edge being curved and wider than the trailing edge.

50. 50. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 49, wherein the leading edge curves forwardly in a lateral-medial direction and the trailing edge does not curve substantially forwardly or posteriorly.

51. 51. The positioning and stabilising structure of any one of claims 28 to 50, wherein the ring strap portion has increased stiffness in a region immediately adjacent a connection point relative to at least one other region of the ring strap portion.

52. 52. The positioning and stabilizing structure of any one of claims 28 to 51, wherein the ring strap portion further includes an upper transverse strap portion constructed and arranged to engage an upper region of a user's head at or near the coronal plane.

53. 1. A head-mounted display system, comprising: A head mounted display unit and a positioning and stabilisation structure according to any one of claims 28 to 52, The head mounted display unit includes: a display unit housing having a display; an interface structure connected to said display unit housing and constructed and arranged to engage a user's face in use.

54. 54. A head mounted display system as described in claim 53, wherein the head mounted display unit includes a pair of arms extending rearwardly from each lateral side of the display unit housing, each lateral strap portion being configured to be attached to a respective arm.

55. 55. A head mounted display system as described in claim 54, wherein the arm is pivotally attached to the display unit housing.

56. 1. A head-mounted display system, comprising: a head mounted display unit; and a positioning and stabilization structure; The head-mounted display unit includes a display unit housing having a display; an interface structure connected to said display unit housing and constructed and arranged to engage a face of a user in use; said positioning and stabilising structure constructed and arranged to hold, in use, a head mounted display unit in an operable position on a user's head; a band strap portion constructed and arranged to encircle the user's head in use and form an occipital strap portion constructed and arranged to engage an area of ​​the user's head located above the frontal bone and an occipital strap portion constructed and arranged to engage an area of ​​the user's head located above or below the occipital bone; 55. A head mounted display system as described in claim 54, wherein the head mounted display unit is pivotally attached to the band strap portion with a pair of pivot connections arranged to be located on either side of a user's head in use, allowing the head mounted display unit to pivot relative to the band strap portion about an axis aligned perpendicular to the sagittal plane of the user's head, thereby allowing the display to be moved upwards and downwards in use.

57. 57. A head mounted display system as described in claim 56, wherein the pivot connection is located adjacent the mid-coronal plane of a user's head in use.

58. 58. A head mounted display system as described in claim 56 or 57, wherein the band strap portion includes a pair of slots, the pivot connection being disposed within the slots, the slots enabling the pivot connection to move relative to the band strap portion along the length of the slots.

59. A head mounted display system as claimed in any one of claims 56 to 58, wherein the pivotal connection allows the head mounted display unit to move at least partially forwards during pivotal rotation.

60. A head mounted display system as described in claims 56 to 59, wherein the head mounted display unit is configured to pivot between a viewing position in which the head mounted display unit is positioned above the user's eyes and a non-viewing position in which the head mounted display unit is positioned above the user's frontal bone.

61. 61. A head mounted display system as described in claim 60, wherein the slot is configured such that the pivot connection moves at least partially forward when the head mounted display is pivoted from the viewing position to the non-viewing position.

62. A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 56 to 59, wherein the positioning and stabilising structure includes a parietal strap portion configured to engage the user's head in a region overlying the parietal bone of the user's head in use.

63. 63. A head mounted display system as described in claim 62, wherein the crown strap portion is connected to the band strap portion.

64. A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 62 and 63, wherein when the head mounted display system is worn, the top strap portion is connected to the band strap portion at a position spaced forward from the pivot connection.

65. A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 62 to 64, wherein the top strap portion includes a pair of elastically stretchable lateral portions close to the band strap portion and a rear portion that is less stretchable than the elastically stretchable lateral portions.

66. A head mounted display system as claimed in any one of claims 56 to 65, further comprising a battery pack for powering the head mounted display system.

67. 67. A head mounted display system as described in claim 66, wherein said battery pack is attached to said rear head strap portion.

68. A head mounted display system as claimed in any one of claims 56 to 67, wherein the length of the band strap portion is adjustable.

69. A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 56 to 68, wherein the band strap portion includes a dial adjustment mechanism including a rotatable dial, the dial adjustment mechanism configured to change the length of the band strap portion when the dial is rotated.

70. 70. A head mounted display system as described in claim 69, wherein said dial adjustment mechanism is provided on said crown strap portion of said band strap portion.

71. 71. A head mounted display system as claimed in claim 69 or 70, wherein the dial, in use, lies in the sagittal plane of a user's head.

72. A head-mounted display system as described in any one of claims 69 to 71, comprising a pair of battery packs mounted on the rear-head strap portion, each battery pack being disposed on each lateral side of the dial.

73. A head mounted display system as claimed in any one of claims 56 to 72, wherein the band strap portion includes an outer layer formed of a textile material.

74. A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 56 to 73, wherein the band strap portion includes a rigidizer.

75. 75. A head mounted display system as described in claim 74, wherein the band strap portion includes a textile sleeve, the rigidizer being inside the textile sleeve.

76. A head mounted display system as claimed in any one of claims 56 to 75, wherein the positioning and stabilising structure includes a forehead pad attached to the band strap portion and configured to engage a user's forehead.

77. 77. The head mounted display system of claim 76, wherein the forehead pad comprises a textile material.

78. 1. A positioning and stabilizing structure for holding a head mounted display unit in an operable position on a user's head, said positioning and stabilizing structure comprising: a pair of lateral strap portions configured to be connected to respective lateral sides of a head mounted display unit, the lateral strap portions being connected to one another behind a user's head when the positioning and stabilizing structure is worn to form a band strap portion that partially encircles the user's head; an adjustment mechanism disposed between the lateral strap portions and connecting the lateral strap portions at a rear region of the user's head, the adjustment mechanism being configured to simultaneously and evenly adjust the length of both lateral strap portions to adjust the length of the band strap portions; and an occipital strap portion constructed and positioned to engage a region of the user's head above the occipital bone.

79. 80. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 78, wherein the rear head strap portion is connected to the band strap portion.

80. 80. The positioning and stabilizing structure of any one of claims 78 and 79, wherein the adjustment mechanism is constructed and arranged to allow a user to selectively adjust a length of the band strap portions when the positioning and stabilizing structure is worn by a user.

81. A positioning and stabilising structure according to any one of claims 78 to 80, wherein the adjustment mechanism comprises a dial adjustment mechanism including a dial which, when turned, adjusts the length of the band strap portion.

82. 82. The positioning and stabilising structure of claim 81, wherein the dial, in use, lies in the sagittal plane of a user's head.

83. A positioning and stabilising structure according to any one of claims 78 to 82, wherein the band strap portion is configured, in use, to engage a region of a user's head above the parietal bone.

84. 84. The positioning and stabilising structure of any one of claims 78 to 83, wherein the band strap portion includes a rigidiser that provides stiffness to the band strap portion at least in the region of the head that is above the parietal bone of a user.

85. A positioning and stabilising structure according to any one of claims 78 to 83, wherein the band strap portion generally includes a rigidiser providing rigidity to the band strap portion.

86. A positioning and stabilising structure as described in any one of claims 78 to 85, wherein when the positioning and stabilising structure is worn, the lateral strap portions are configured, in use, to each lie on a path that extends rearward and partially upward away from the head mounted display unit towards a rear region of the user's head.

87. The positioning and stabilising structure of any one of claims 78 to 86, wherein the rear head strap portion is semi-rigid.

88. The positioning and stabilising structure of any one of claims 78 to 87, wherein the rear head strap portion includes a textile sleeve and at least one rigidiser within the textile sleeve.

89. 90. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 88, wherein the textile sleeve is elastically stretchable in a lengthwise direction to allow for size adjustment of the rear head strap portion.

90. 90. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 88 or 89, wherein the textile sleeve is a knitted tube.

91. 91. The positioning and stabilizing structure of any one of claims 88-90, wherein the rear head strap portion includes a pair of rigidizers, each rigidizer including a rear end, the rear ends of the rigidizers being laterally spaced apart from one another near a rear surface of a user's head when the positioning and stabilizing structure is worn.

92. 92. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 91, wherein when the positioning and stabilizing structure is worn, each rigidizer extends rearward and bends inward to conform to the curvature of the posterior surface of a user's head.

93. 93. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 92, wherein when the positioning and stabilizing structure is worn, each rigidizer extends rearward and curves downwardly and inwardly to follow the curvature of the posterior surface of the user's head.

94. 94. The positioning and stabilizing structure of any one of claims 91 to 93, wherein the textile sleeve is constrained by the rigidizers to be on a curved path defined by the curvature of each rigidizer, and the textile sleeve is configured to extend over and along the rigidizers and elastically expand in a longitudinal direction.

95. The positioning and stabilizing structure of any one of claims 78 to 94, further comprising a top strap portion connected to the band strap portion and adapted to be attached to the head mounted display unit.

96. 96. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 95, wherein the top strap portion is aligned with a sagittal plane of a user's head.

97. 97. The positioning and stabilising structure of claim 95 or 96, wherein the top strap portion is configured to be secured to itself to form a loop adapted to be connected to the head mounted display unit.

98. 98. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 97, wherein the top strap portion is constructed and arranged to be secured to itself by a hook and loop connection.

99. 1. A head-mounted display system, comprising: A head mounted display unit and a positioning and stabilisation structure according to any one of claims 78 to 98, The head mounted display unit includes: a display unit housing having a display; an interface structure connected to said display unit housing and constructed and arranged to engage a user's face in use.

100. 100. A head-mounted display system as described in claim 99, wherein the head-mounted display unit includes a pair of arms extending rearwardly from each lateral side of the display unit housing, each lateral strap portion being configured to be attached to a respective arm.

101. 101. A head mounted display system as claimed in claim 100, wherein the arm is constructed and arranged to be pivotally attached to the head mounted display unit.

102. 100. A head mounted display system as described in claim 99, wherein the lateral strap portions are constructed and arranged for attachment to the interface structure of the head mounted display unit.

103. 100. A head mounted display system as described in claim 99, wherein the lateral strap portions are constructed and arranged for attachment to the display unit housing of the head mounted display unit.

104. A head-mounted display system as described in any one of claims 99 to 103, wherein the head-mounted display unit includes a pair of side shields extending rearward from each lateral side of the head-mounted display unit through a lateral portion of the interface structure.

105. 105. A head mounted display system as described in claim 104, wherein each of the side shields, in use, extends rearwardly to a position proximate the respective superior ear base point of the user's head.

106. 106. A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 104 and 105, wherein the rear head strap portion is constructed and arranged to be attached to the side shields.

107. A head mounted display system as claimed in any one of claims 99 to 106, wherein the back of the head strap portion is attached to the band strap portion proximate the head mounted display unit.

108. 100. A head mounted display system as described in claim 99, wherein the rear head strap portion is connected to the head mounted display unit.

109. 1. A positioning and stabilizing structure for holding a head mounted display unit in an operable position on a user's head, said positioning and stabilizing structure comprising: an upper transverse strap portion constructed and arranged to engage an upper portion of a user's head and extend from one lateral side to the other lateral side of the user's head in use; an occipital strap portion constructed and arranged to engage an area of ​​a user's head over an occipital bone in use; a pair of joints where the upper transverse strap portion and the rear head strap portion join, the joints being configured to engage respective lateral sides of a user's head in use; a pair of lateral strap portions configured to extend respectively along lateral sides of a user's head in use, each lateral strap portion having a front portion adapted to be connected to the head mounted display unit and a rear portion connected to a respective junction of the upper transverse strap portion and the rear head strap portion; A positioning and stabilizing structure, each of the lateral strap portions including a rigidizer that provides rigidity to the lateral strap portion.

110. 110. A positioning and stabilising structure as described in claim 109, wherein in use the upper transverse strap portions are substantially aligned with a coronal plane of a user's head which is aligned with respective superior ear-base points of the user's head.

111. 111. A positioning and stabilising structure as claimed in claim 109 or 110, wherein, in use, the upper transverse strap portion is wider in the sagittal plane of the user's head than near the junction with the occipital strap portion.

112. The positioning and stabilising structure of any one of claims 109 to 111, wherein the lateral strap portions and the upper transverse strap portions are integrally formed.

113. 13. The positioning and stabilising structure of any one of claims 109 to 112, wherein portions of the upper transverse strap portion adjacent each lateral strap portion include a rigidiser that provides stiffness to the upper transverse strap portion.

114. 114. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 113, wherein the upper transverse strap portion includes a rigidizer that provides stiffness along an entire length of the upper transverse strap portion.

115. 115. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 114, wherein the positioning and stabilizing structure includes a single rigidizer extending from one of the lateral strap portions, through the upper transverse strap portion, to the other of the lateral strap portions.

116. 116. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 115, wherein a portion of the rear head strap portion adjacent each lateral strap portion includes a rigidizer that provides rigidity to the rear head strap portion.

117. 117. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 116, wherein the single rigidizer includes a rearwardly projecting portion extending to each end of the rear head strap portion.

118. 118. The positioning and stabilizing structure of any one of claims 109 to 117, wherein the rear head strap portion includes the rear head strap connector at one end of the rear head strap portion and is constructed and arranged to be releasably attached to a rear head strap connection at or near one of the junctions between the rear head strap portion and the upper transverse strap portion.

119. 119. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 118, wherein the rear head strap connector is constructed and arranged to be magnetically attached to the rear head strap connection.

120. 120. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 118 or 119, wherein the length of the rear head strap portion is selectively adjustable.

121. The positioning and stabilising structure of any one of claims 118 to 120, wherein the rear head strap portion is configured to pass through an eyelet of the rear head strap connector and fold back and secure onto itself.

122. 122. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 121, wherein the rear head strap portion is configured to be secured to itself by a hook and loop connection.

123. 123. The positioning and stabilizing structure of any one of claims 109 to 122, wherein each lateral strap portion includes an upper transverse strap connection portion connected to the upper transverse strap portion and an occipital strap connection portion connected to the occipital strap portion.

124. 124. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 123, wherein each of the upper transverse strap portions and the occipital strap portions are simultaneously selectively adjustable in length.

125. The positioning and stabilising structure of any one of claims 109 to 124, wherein each of the lateral strap portions is selectively adjustable in length.

126. 126. The positioning and stabilizing structure of any one of claims 125, wherein each lateral strap portion is configured to be secured to itself to form a loop adapted to be connected to the head mounted display unit.

127. 127. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 126, wherein each lateral strap portion is configured to be secured to itself by a hook-and-loop connection.

128. The positioning and stabilizing structure of any one of claims 109 to 127, further comprising a top strap portion connected to the upper transverse strap portion and adapted to be connected to the head mounted display unit.

129. 129. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 128, wherein the top strap portion is selectively adjustable in length.

130. 130. The positioning and stabilising structure of claim 128 or 129, wherein the top strap portion is adapted to connect to the head mounted display unit at a single location.

131. A positioning and stabilising structure as described in any one of claims 128 to 130, wherein the top strap portion is constructed and arranged to be secured to itself to form a loop adapted to be connected to the head mounted display unit.

132. 132. The positioning and stabilizing structure of claim 131, wherein the top strap portion is constructed and arranged to be secured to itself by a hook and loop connection.

133. 1. A head-mounted display system, comprising: A head-mounted display unit; and a positioning and stabilisation structure according to any one of claims 109 to 132, wherein the head mounted display unit comprises: a display unit housing having a display; an interface structure connected to said display unit housing and constructed and arranged to engage a user's face in use.

134. 134. A head-mounted display system as described in claim 133, wherein the head-mounted display unit includes a pair of arms extending rearwardly from each lateral side of the display unit housing, each of the lateral strap portions being configured to be attached to a respective one of the arms.

135. 135. A head mounted display system as described in claim 134, wherein the arm is constructed and arranged to be pivotally attached to the head mounted display unit housing.

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