Positioning, stabilization, and interface structures and systems incorporating same

Abstract

A head mounted display system including a head mounted display unit including a display, a positioning and stabilizing structure structured and arranged to hold the head mounted display unit in an operable position on a user's face in use, an interface structure constructed and arranged in facing relationship with the user's face and including a face engaging portion configured to contact the user's face, and a shroud, the shroud including a frame including a rear portion connected to the face engaging portion, a front portion defining a viewing opening through which the display can be viewed in use, and a radially outwardly facing light blocking surface extending between the rear portion and the front portion.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to anyone copying the 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 thereto for all other purposes. 1 [CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS]

[0002] This application claims the benefit of Australian Provisional Application No. 2022900581, filed March 10, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 2.1 [Technical field]

[0003] 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, including positioning and stabilizing structures, interface structures, and / or components, and methods. 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 a broader range of 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 [Background technology]

[0004] Where prior art is referenced in this document, it is 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 technologies refer to technologies that create a sense of surroundings and replicate or extend 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 may 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 that is 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 may be blocked or hindered from interacting with the physical environment (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 that aims to simulate a real environment. For example, the user may be able to pivot his / her head or entire body to look around (e.g., 360°) and to 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 and replaces the corresponding stimuli in the physical environment while the user is using the VR device. Typically, the stimuli relate to 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 in the vicinity of 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 the visual feedback. For example, the VR device may include or be connected to a speaker to provide auditory feedback. The VR device may also include haptic feedback (e.g., in the form of a haptic response) that may correspond to the visual and / or auditory feedback. This can create a more immersive virtual environment because the user receives stimuli corresponding 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 seal to the user's face. In some examples, the shield may be placed near (e.g., in contact with or in close contact with) the user's face, but may not be in close contact with the user's face. In any example, ambient light may not reach 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) and 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 environment), 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] Below, various kinds of VR devices are described. Typically, one VR device may include at least two different classifications. For example, a VR device may be classified by its portability or by how the display unit is coupled with 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 its classification in another group. There may also be additional categories for classifying VR devices, which are not explicitly described below. 2.2.2.1 Portability 2.2.2.1.1 Fixed unit

[0014] In some forms, the 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 since it cannot be used without the computer or video game console, and therefore is limited in where it can be used (e.g., the location of the computer or video game console).

[0015] The VR device may be connected to a computer or video game console, as the VR device may be used in conjunction with 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, as 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 the example of a fixed unit VR device, 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, a computer or video game console may power the VR device so that the user does not need to support a battery on their head, which may make the VR device more comfortable to wear as the user does not have to support the weight of the battery.

[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 that the user needs to support on their body.

[0019] In some forms, 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 needs to be within the field of view of the camera(s). 2.2.2.1.2 Portable units

[0020] In some forms, the VR device may be a self-contained unit that includes power and sensors, so that the VR device does not need to be connected to a computer or video game console. This allows the user more freedom of use and movement. For example, the user is not limited to using the VR device in close proximity to a computer or video game console, but can use the VR device outdoors or in other environments without a computer or television.

[0021] Because a VR device is not connected to the computer or video game console being used, it must support all the 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 that this additional weight does not increase discomfort for the user wearing the VR device.

[0022] In some forms, the electrical components of the 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 the brick configuration may be advantageous for manufacturing (e.g., because all electrical components are in close proximity) and may allow interchangeability of the positioning and stabilizing structures (e.g., because there are no electrical connections), the forces 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, causing irritation and marking of the user's skin. The user's head may feel "pinched" by the combination of the two forces, as it experiences forces from the display housing on the face and from the headgear at the back of the head. This may cause the user to not wear the VR device.

[0023] VR and other mixed reality devices may be used in ways that cause the user's head and / or entire body to move violently (e.g., during gaming), which may result in large forces and moments that tend to disrupt the position of the device 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 for 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., the battery) may be located in the positioning and stabilizing structure, particularly the rear contacts. In this way, the weight of the battery (or other electrical components) may generate a moment in an opposite direction to the moment generated by the remainder of the VR device (e.g., the display). Thus, 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., leaving fewer marks 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 forms, spacing out the electrical components requires that some electrical components be located away from the rest of the VR device. For example, the battery and / or processor may be electrically connected or carried separately from the rest of the VR device. Unlike the "fixed units" described above, the battery and / or processor may be carried with the rest of the VR device. For example, the battery and / or processor may be carried on the user's belt or in a pocket. This may provide the advantage of reducing the weight on the user's head, but without the reaction moment. Because less total weight is supported by the head, the tension provided by the positioning and stabilizing structure may be less than the "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 detached from the rest of the VR device.

[0027] The display screen may be secured within the housing and protected from damage (e.g., the display screen may be completely covered by the housing, reducing the likelihood of it becoming scratched. Further, integrating the display screen with the rest of the VR device eliminates the possibility of the display screen becoming 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 (see below). 2.2.2.2.2 Detachable display screens

[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 processors 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] Although similar to VR, AR differs in that a virtual environment, created at least in part by an electronic screen, is observed in combination with the user's physical environment. In other words, AR creates virtual objects and uses elements of 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, the user may wish to continue receiving ambient stimuli from the physical environment while using the AR device (e.g., to continually observe physical or non-virtual components of the combined environment).

[0035] Because AR may be used in the 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 may lead to changes in the types of wearable electronic screens. As mentioned above, a user of a VR device 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, a user of an AR device may want to see a virtual environment blended with the real environment. An AR device's electronic screen is similarly supported in front of the user's eyes, but the AR device's screen may be transparent or translucent, and the screen may not be supported 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 through which the user can observe their real-world surroundings may be configured for AR by acquiring 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 the AR user can observe the physical environment or is not tethered to a computer or video game console). Thus, people who use AR devices may want to wear the device for extended periods of time while moving around (e.g., walking, running, biking, etc.). Including components such as batteries in an AR device may cause the AR device to be uncomfortable for a user's head or neck, discouraging the user 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 allow users to interact with virtual objects and environments in more ways than AR devices, potentially resulting in a more immersive experience. The virtual reality in MR can also be overlaid or blended with the user's physical environment. However, unlike AR, users may be able to interact with the virtual environment similar to what 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 the 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 experience an immersive virtual environment 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 full immersion experience for the user. One example of full immersion is virtual reality (VR). Head-mounted display interfaces can also provide partial immersion 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 the 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 located on the user's head to hold the display unit in place.

[0042] Other head-mounted display interfaces may not provide full immersion - in other words, the user experiences elements of the physical environment as well as the virtual environment. Examples of experiences that do not provide 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 arranged to face the user's face. AR and / or MR head-mounted display head-mounted display systems are similar to VR in that they further include a positioning and stabilization structure located on the user's head to hold the display unit in place. However, AR and MR head-mounted displays do not include a cushion that completely blocks ambient light from the display. This is because these experiences, which are not fully immersive, require elements of the physical environment. Instead, augmented and / or mixed head-mounted displays allow users to see a combination of physical and virtual environments.

[0044] In any kind of immersive technology, it is important that the head-mounted display interface is comfortable so that the user can wear the head-mounted display for extended periods of time. Additionally, it is important that the display is capable of providing 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 directly contacts the patient's face.

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

[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 in face-to-face engagement with the user's face. The interface structure may include a polyurethane (PU) pad. This type of interface structure may result in gaps between the interface structure and the surface, and additional force may be required 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 may be created between the facial interface and the user's face through which undesirable light pollution may enter the display unit (e.g., especially when using virtual reality). Light pollution or "light leakage" may reduce the effectiveness and enjoyment of the user's overall immersion. In addition, conventional systems may be difficult to adjust to accommodate different head sizes. Furthermore, display units and associated stabilizing structures are often relatively heavy and may be difficult to clean, which may 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 match between the face and the interface structure is not good, 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 in use. Some interface structures may be restricted to engage areas of the user's face that project 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. This may result in discomfort to the user at localized stress points. Other facial areas may not be engaged at all by the interface structure, or may be engaged only negligibly, and thus insufficient to increase the travel distance of the clamping pressure. These areas may typically include the sides of the user's face, or areas adjacent to and surrounding the user's nose. Where 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 that are positioned on the user's head. These structures may serve to provide a force to counteract the gravity of the head mounted display and / or interface structure. Heretofore, these structures have been formed of expandable rigid structures that are typically applied to the head under tension to hold the display unit in an operable position. Such systems tend to exert a clamping pressure on the user's face, which can cause discomfort to the user at localized stress points. Additionally, conventional systems can be difficult to adjust to accommodate a wide range of application head sizes. Additionally, 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 decoration 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. Or, insufficient clamping pressure on the user's face may not effectively block 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 of time or when the user is not familiar with the system. Inappropriate sizing of positioning and stabilization structures can reduce comfort and shorten duration of use.

[0055] Thus, the interface portions of the user interface that are used to fully immerse the 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 contacts of the interface structures, rigid shells for the housings, and positioning and stabilizing structures formed of rigid plastic clamping structures. These materials have various drawbacks, such as the skin covered by the material cannot breathe, they are not flexible, they are difficult to clean, and they are prone to bacterial adhesion. As a result, products made from such materials can be uncomfortable to wear for long periods of time and can cause skin irritation in some people, limiting the product's scope of application. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0057] The present technology is directed to providing positioning and stabilization 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) arranged 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 user's upper ear base point.

[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 and 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 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 facing relationship with a user's face.

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

[0067] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, the head-mounted display system comprising: A head-mounted display unit having a display; a positioning and stabilizing structure structured and arranged to hold the head mounted display unit in an operable position on the user's head in use; an interface structure constructed and arranged in facing relationship to a face of a user, the interface structure including a face engagement portion configured to contact the user's face; a shroud, the shroud comprising: A rear portion connected to the face engaging portion; and a frame including a front portion defining a viewing opening through which, in use, the display can be viewed; and a radially outwardly facing light blocking surface extending between the rear and front portions.

[0068] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, the head-mounted display system comprising: A head-mounted display unit having a display; a positioning and stabilizing structure structured and arranged to hold the head mounted display unit in an operable position on the user's head in use; an interface structure constructed and arranged in facing relationship to a face of a user, the interface structure including a face engagement portion configured to contact the user's face; A skeletal frame, A rear portion connected to the face engaging portion; a front portion defining a viewing opening through which, in use, the display can be viewed; and a skeletal frame including a support structure including a plurality of openings between a rear portion and a front portion; and a shroud provided on at least the upper and outer parts of the skeletal frame to cover them.

[0069] example: • The anterior part of the skeleton includes an upper and lower part. ●The rear portion of the skeletal frame includes a forehead portion that crosses the sagittal plane of the user's head when in use, and a pair of side portions that extend downwardly from the forehead portion. The lateral portion is connected to the lower portion of the front of the skeletal frame, and / or Each outer portion includes an upper portion and a lower portion.

[0070] example: - The skeletal frame includes at least one strut extending between the rear and front portions. The at least one strut of the skeletal frame includes at least one upper strut. the skeletal frame includes a first upper support and a second upper support; and / or ●The first upper support and the second upper support are offset laterally on opposite sides of the sagittal plane of the user's head when in use.

[0071] example: The skeletal frame includes a central upper post that is substantially aligned with the sagittal plane of the user's head in use. the skeletal frame includes a first angled strut extending from a location proximal to the central upper strut at the posterior portion to a location offset laterally from the central upper strut at the anterior portion; and / or • The skeletal frame includes a second angled strut extending from a location proximal to the central upper strut at the rear to a location laterally offset from the central upper strut at the front away from the first angled strut.

[0072] example: At least one upper strut may be configured to pivot relative to at least one of the rear and front of the skeletal frame. - The pivoting of the at least one upper strut may be achieved by a flexible connection. At least one upper strut may include a flexible connection to one of the rear and front of the skeletal frame. At least one upper strut may include flexible connections to both the rear and front of the skeletal frame. At least one upper strut may include a flexible connection to the rear of the skeletal frame and a relatively inflexible connection to the front of the skeletal frame. • At least one upper strut may include a flexible connection to the front of the skeletal frame and a relatively inflexible connection to the rear of the skeletal frame.

[0073] example: At least one upper strut may include a flexible section and a stiffening section. - One or more parts of the skeletal frame may have a different stiffness than one or more other parts of the skeletal frame. The front portion of the skeletal frame may be stiffer than at least a portion of the rear portion of the skeletal frame. - The front of the skeletal frame may be stiffer than the rear forehead and sides of the skeletal frame. - The rear forehead and lower portions of the skeletal frame may be less stiff than the rear upper portion of the skeletal frame and the front portion of the skeletal frame.

[0074] example: • The system includes an interface chassis between the skeletal frame and the interface structure. The interface chassis is configured to be connected to the skeletal frame. ●The interface chassis is integrated with the skeletal frame. The interface chassis may include at least a portion of the rear of the skeletal frame. • The interface chassis may be connected to the skeletal frame at multiple discrete points. ●The forehead portion of the interface chassis is connected to the rear forehead portion of the skeletal frame, and the nose portion of the interface chassis is connected to the bottom of the front of the skeletal frame. - The forehead portion of the interface chassis is connected to the rear forehead portion of the skeletal frame at a position proximal to the sagittal plane of the user's head during use. - The sides of the interface chassis are connected to the rear sides of the skeletal frame. ●The forehead portion of the interface chassis is connected to the rear forehead portion of the skeletal frame at two points offset laterally on opposite sides of the sagittal plane of the user's head when in use, and the nose portion of the interface chassis is connected to the front lower portion of the skeletal frame. ●The forehead portion of the interface chassis is connected to the rear forehead portion of the skeletal frame at two points offset laterally on opposite sides of the sagittal plane of the user's head when in use, and the sides of the interface chassis are connected to the rear sides of the skeletal frame. The cheek of the interface chassis is connected to the front lower part of the skeletal frame, and / or ●The cheek of the interface chassis is connected to the rear underside of the skeletal frame.

[0075] example: - The shroud is mounted between the rear and front of the skeletal frame. • The shroud is made of or includes a flexible sheet material. • The shroud is made of or includes a textile material. the radially outwardly facing light blocking surface comprises a flexible sheet material; and ● The radially outward shading surface comprises a textile material.

[0076] example: The face engagement portion may include a forehead portion that crosses the sagittal plane of the user's head in use, a pair of cheek portions provided on either side of the user's nose in use, and side portions between the forehead portion and the cheek portion. ●The cross section of the side is different from the cross section of the forehead. ● The aspect ratio of the cross section of the side portion may be greater than the aspect ratio of the cross section of the forehead portion. At least a side portion of the face engagement portion may be configured to be stretchable between the face contact surface and the interface chassis. - At least the sides define a concertina section between the face contact surface and the interface chassis.

[0077] example: • The interface chassis includes a main portion having a radially outward facing surface and a lip portion extending radially outward from the main portion. The lip portion is provided at the rear end of the main portion. The face engagement portion is provided on the lip portion. The rear end of the shroud overlaps with the radially outward surface of the main part of the interface chassis. - The rear end of the shroud does not overlap with the lip of the interface chassis. • The interface chassis includes a main portion having a radially outward facing surface, with the face-engaging portion extending radially outward from the main portion. The rear end of the shroud overlaps with the radially outward surface of the main portion of the interface chassis and the radially outward surface of the face engagement portion. At least one airway is provided between the interface chassis and the shroud, and / or At least one air passage is provided between a radially inwardly facing surface of the shroud and an outwardly facing surface of the main portion of the interface chassis.

[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 a pair of lateral strap portions configured to extend along respective sides of the user's head in use.

[0079] example: - The lateral strap portions are configured to be connected to an interface structure. The lateral strap portions are configured to be connected to a skeletal frame. • The lateral strap portion is configured to be connected at a rear proximal location. ●The lateral strap portion is configured to be connected to a head mounted display unit, and the positioning and stabilizing structure includes a pair of secondary lateral strap portions configured to be connected between the lateral strap portion and the interface structure. • The secondary lateral strap portion is configured to be connected to the skeletal frame. ● The length of the secondary lateral strap portion is adjustable separately from the length of the lateral strap portion. • The elasticity of the secondary lateral strap sections is different from the elasticity of the lateral strap sections. ●The head mounted display system includes a biasing mechanism between the positioning and stabilizing structure and the frame, the biasing mechanism being configured to bias the frame to rotate upwardly to increase contact pressure of the forehead portion of the face engaging portion against the cheek portion of the face engaging portion. Each lateral strap portion includes a stiffening portion. - The stiffening portion of the lateral strap portion may be integral with one or more of the interface structure and the frame. The stiffening section includes at least one non-linear section. At least one of the nonlinear sections includes an arcuate section. • The positioning and stabilizing structure includes a flexible and / or elastic material disposed around the stiffening portion. The soft and / or elastic material comprises at least one textile layer. The stiffening portion may include one or more cable positioning features. • One or more cable locating features are provided on the radially outward facing surface of the stiffening portion.

[0080] Another form of the present technology involves a head mounted display system, the head mounted display system comprising: Includes a display unit housing having a display A head-mounted display unit; an interface structure connected to the display unit housing and constructed and arranged to engage a face of a user in use; and a positioning and stabilising structure substantially as described herein.

[0081] 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.

[0082] Another aspect of one form of the present technology is an interface structure constructed with a shape complementary to the shape of the intended wearer.

[0083] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a user interface assembly for a head mounted display system, the user interface assembly including: 1) a face engaging portion, and 2) an interface chassis.

[0084] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a user interface assembly for a head mounted display system. The user interface assembly includes: 1) a face engaging portion; and 2) an interface chassis. The face engaging portion is configured to contact a user's face around the user's eyes in use, the face engaging portion including a user contacting portion configured to contact the user and a non-user contacting portion opposite the user contacting portion. The interface chassis is rigid relative to the face engaging portion and configured to support the face engaging portion in use, the interface chassis being connected to the non-user contacting portion of the face engaging portion. The interface chassis is configured to extend around the user's eyes along the face engaging portion in use, the interface chassis including a forehead portion, a pair of side portions, a pair of cheek portions, and a nose portion, the interface chassis including at least one relatively rigid portion and at least one relatively flexible portion to allow the interface chassis to bend to accommodate anthropometric changes in the user's face, the at least one relatively rigid portion being rigid relative to the at least one relatively flexible portion, the at least one relatively rigid portion being constructed of a different material than the at least one relatively flexible portion.

[0085] In examples, a) the at least one relatively rigid portion includes a nose portion and / or a pair of cheek portions of the interface chassis and the at least one relatively flexible portion includes a forehead portion and / or a side portion; b) the nose portion of the interface chassis is stiffer than the forehead portion; c) the pair of cheek portions of the interface chassis is stiffer than the side portions; d) the interface chassis comprises a thermoplastic material; and / or e) the at least one relatively rigid portion includes a first thermoplastic material and the at least one relatively flexible portion includes 1) a second thermoplastic material that is less stiff than the first thermoplastic material, or 2) an elastomeric material that is less stiff than the first thermoplastic material.

[0086] In a further example, f) the first thermoplastic material is a polyamide and / or g) the second thermoplastic material is Hytrel®.

[0087] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head mounted display system including a head mounted display unit with a display, a positioning and stabilizing structure structured and arranged to hold the head mounted display unit in an operable position in front of a user's face in use, and a user interface assembly according to any of the aspects above.

[0088] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head mounted display support assembly for supporting a head mounted display unit, the head mounted display support assembly including: 1) an interface assembly including a face engaging portion configured to contact the face surrounding the eyes of a user in use, and 2) a frame assembly including a front portion adapted to connect to the head mounted display unit and a rear portion connected to the interface assembly.

[0089] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head mounted display support assembly for supporting a head mounted display unit. The head mounted display support assembly includes: 1) an interface assembly; and 2) a frame assembly. The interface assembly includes a face engaging portion configured to contact a user's face around the circumference of the user's eyes in use, the face engaging portion including a user contacting portion configured to contact the user and a non-user contacting portion opposite the user contacting portion. The frame assembly includes a front portion adapted to connect to the head mounted display unit and a rear portion connected to the interface assembly, the frame assembly including a support structure bridging the front and rear portions, the support structure configured to flex relative to the rear and / or front portion such that, in use, the rear portion is movable relative to the front portion to accommodate anthropometric changes in the user's face.

[0090] In examples, a) the rear portion of the frame assembly includes a forehead portion and a pair of side portions; b) the front portion of the frame assembly is stiffer than at least the forehead portion of the frame assembly; c) the support structure includes at least one strut disposed between the rear and front portions of the frame assembly; d) the strut is stiffer than the rear portion of the frame assembly; e) the at least one strut includes a flexible portion and a stiffening portion that provides stiffness to the strut, the stiffening portion being stiffer than the flexible portion; f) the at least one strut includes a first flexible connection with the rear portion and a second inflexible connection with the front portion, the first flexible connection being relatively flexible compared to the second inflexible connection; g) the at least one strut is disposed between the forehead and front portions of the frame assembly. h) the interface assembly includes 1) a face engaging portion configured to contact the user's face around the vicinity of the user's eyes in use, and 2) an interface chassis that is rigid compared to the face engaging portion and configured to support the face engaging portion in use, wherein i) a rear portion of the frame assembly is connected to the interface chassis, j) a rear portion of the frame assembly is connected to the interface assembly only at a plurality of discrete connection points, and / or k) the frame assembly comprises a thermoplastic material.

[0091] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head mounted display system including a head mounted display unit with a display, a positioning and stabilizing structure structured and arranged to hold the head mounted display unit in an operable position in front of a user's face in use, and a head mounted display support assembly according to any of the above aspects.

[0092] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head mounted display support assembly for supporting a head mounted display unit. The head mounted display support assembly includes: 1) an interface assembly; and 2) a frame assembly. The interface assembly includes: 1) a face engagement portion configured to contact a user's face around the circumference of the user's eyes in use; and 2) an interface chassis configured to be rigid relative to the face engagement portion and to support the face engagement portion in use. The face engagement portion includes a user contact portion configured to contact the user and a non-user contact portion opposite the user contact portion. The interface chassis is connected to the non-user contact portion of the face engagement portion and includes a forehead portion, a pair of side portions, a pair of cheek portions, and a nose portion. The interface chassis is configured to extend along the face engagement portion around the circumference of the user's eyes in use. The frame assembly includes a front portion adapted to connect to the head mounted display unit and a rear portion connected to the interface chassis, the front portion of the frame assembly being rigid relative to the rear portion of the frame assembly.

[0093] In examples, a) the frame assembly includes a support structure spanning the front and rear portions; b) the support structure is configured to flex relative to the rear and / or front portions such that, in use, the rear portion is movable relative to the front portion to accommodate anthropometric changes in the user's face; c) the interface chassis includes at least one relatively rigid portion and at least one relatively flexible portion to allow the interface chassis to flex to accommodate anthropometric changes in the user's face. The at least one relatively rigid portion is stiffer than the at least one relatively flexible portion; and / or d) at least one of the forehead portion, the pair of side portions, the pair of cheek portions, and the nose portion of the interface chassis is stiffer than another one of the forehead portion, the pair of side portions, the pair of cheek portions, and the nose portion.

[0094] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head mounted display system including a head mounted display unit with a display, a positioning and stabilizing structure structured and arranged to hold the head mounted display unit in an operable position in front of a user's face in use, and a head mounted display support assembly according to any one of the aspects above.

[0095] One aspect of the present technology is a method for manufacturing a device.

[0096] An aspect of certain forms of the technology is a positioning and stabilization structure that is easy to use, for example, for individuals with limited dexterity or vision, or who have limited experience using head-mounted displays.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] Other features of the technology will become apparent upon consideration of the information contained in the following detailed description, summary, drawings, and claims. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0101] The present technology is illustrated by way of example, and not limitation, in the drawings in which like reference numbers refer to similar elements including: 4.1 Head-mounted display system [Figure 1A] The system is shown including 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 is shown including a user 100 wearing a head-mounted display system 1000 in the form of a floating virtual reality (VR) headset, to which various images are displayed. The user is seated while wearing the display interface 100. [Figure 1C] The system includes a user 100 wearing a head-mounted display system 1000 in the form of a floating augmented reality (AR) headset, where various images are displayed to the user. The user is standing while wearing the head-mounted display system 1000. 4.2 Display System and Facial Anatomy [Figure 2A] Illustrates the human upper respiratory tract including the nasal cavity, nasal bones, lateral nasal cartilages, greater alar cartilage, nostrils, upper lip, lower lip, larynx, hard palate, soft palate, oropharynx, tongue, epiglottis, vocal cords, esophagus and trachea. [Figure 2B] A front view of a face with several surface anatomical features identified, such as upper lip, vermilion, vermilion, lower lip, mouth width, medial canthus, nasal ala, nasolabial fold, and cheilion. Also shown are the directions: superior, inferior, radial medial, and radial lateral. [Figure 2C] A lateral view of the head with surface anatomical features identified, including the glabella, serion, nasal tip, subnasal point, upper lip, lower lip, supramenton, nasal ridge, alar crest, superior temporal base, and inferior temporal base, and also shown in superior and inferior and anterior and posterior directions. [Figure 2D] FIG. 1 is another lateral view of the head, showing the approximate location of the Frankfort horizontal and the nasolabial angle. The coronal plane is also shown. [Figure 2E] A diagram of the base of the nose is shown 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] Shows the surface features of the nose from a side view. [Figure 2G] The subcutaneous structures of the nose are shown, including the lateral nasal cartilages, nasal septum cartilage, greater alar cartilage, lesser alar cartilage, nasal 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 away from the midsagittal plane, specifically showing the nasal septal cartilage and the medial crus of the greater alar cartilage. [Figure 2I] Shows a frontal view of the skull, including the frontal, nasal, and cheekbones. The nasal turbinates, maxilla, and mandible are shown. [Figure 2J] Side view of the skull showing the contours of the head surface and some of the muscles. The following bones are shown: frontal, sphenoid, nasal, zygomatic, maxilla, mandible, parietal, temporal, and occipital. The mental eminence is shown. The following muscles are shown: digastric, masseter, sternocleidomastoid, and trapezius. [Figure 2K] Showing an anterolateral view of the nose. The following bones are shown: frontal bone, supraorbital foramen, nasal bones, nasal septal 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 nasal alar crest. [Figure 2M] Another lateral view of the face is shown in which several surface anatomical features are identified, including the skull, sphenoid bone, nasal ridge, lateral and medial cheek regions, zygomatic arch, and nasal alar crest. 4.3 Shape of Structures [Figure 3A] 3B shows a schematic diagram of a cross-section of a structure at a point, with the outward normal of the point indicated, and the curvature at the point has a positive sign and is of relatively large magnitude compared to the magnitude of curvature shown in FIG. [Figure 3B]3B shows a schematic diagram of a cross-section of a structure at a point, with the outward normal at that point shown, and the curvature at that point has a positive sign and a relatively small magnitude compared to the magnitude of curvature shown in FIG. [Figure 3C] 1 shows a schematic of a cross-section of a structure at a point. The outward normal of the point is shown. The curvature of the point is zero. [Figure 3D] 3E shows a schematic diagram of a cross-section of a structure at a point, with the outward normal at that point shown, and the curvature at that point has a negative sign and is of relatively small magnitude compared to the magnitude of curvature shown in FIG. [Figure 3E] 3D shows a schematic diagram of a cross-section of a structure at a point, with the outward normal at that point shown, and the curvature at that point has a negative sign and is of relatively large magnitude compared to the magnitude of curvature shown in FIG. [Figure 3F] Shown is a structured surface with a one-dimensional hole in the surface. The plane curves shown form 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, and also shows the surface surrounding the two-dimensional hole in the structure of FIG. [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, the outer surface of the cushion, and the edge of the surface. [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 auricular helix. [Figure 3O]The right ear helix is ​​shown. 4.4 Head-mounted virtual reality display [Figure 4A] FIG. 1 shows a front perspective view of a head mounted display interface in accordance with one form of the present technology. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B shows a rear perspective view of the head mounted display of FIG. 4A. [Figure 4C] FIG. 4B shows a perspective view of a positioning and stabilization structure used in the head-mounted display of FIG. [Figure 4D] A frontal view of a user's face is shown, showing the location of interface structures in use. 4.5 Head-Mounted Augmented Reality Display [Figure 5A] FIG. 1 shows a front perspective view of a head mounted display interface in accordance with one form of the present technology. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B shows a side view of the head-mounted display interface of FIG. 4.6 Control [Figure 6] 4.7 Further Aspects of the Present Technology [Figure 7A] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a head mounted display according to an example of the present technology. [Figure 7B] 7B is a perspective view of the shroud and interface structure of the head-mounted display of FIG. 7A. [Figure 7C] FIG. 7B is a perspective view of the interface structure of the head-mounted display of FIG. 7A. [Figure 7D] FIG. 7B is a perspective view of the shroud and interface structure of the head-mounted display of FIG. 7A placed on the face of a user. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a head mounted display according to an example of the present technology. [Figure 9] 1 illustrates an interface structure according to one embodiment of the present technology. [Figure 9A-1] 1 shows a cross section of an exemplary structure of an interface structure. [Figure 9B-1] 1 shows some examples of cross sections of exemplary structures of interface structures. [Figure 9B-2] 1 shows some examples of cross sections of exemplary structures of interface structures. [Figure 9B-3] 1 shows some examples of cross sections of exemplary structures of interface structures. [Figure 9B-4] 1 shows some examples of cross sections of exemplary structures of interface structures. [Figure 10A] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary skeletal frame and interface chassis in accordance with an aspect of the present technology; [Figure 10B] FIG. 10B is a partial top view of the example skeletal frame and interface chassis of FIG. [Figure 11A] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of another exemplary skeletal frame and interface chassis. [Figure 11B] FIG. 11B is a partial top view of the example skeletal frame and interface chassis of FIG. [Figure 12A] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of yet another exemplary skeletal frame and interface chassis. [Figure 12B] FIG. 12B is a partial top view of the example skeletal frame and interface chassis of FIG. 12A. [Figure 12C] 1A-1C are top views of an exemplary configuration of struts for a skeletal frame. [Figure 12D] 1A-1C are top views of an exemplary configuration of struts for a skeletal frame. [Figure 12E] 1A-1C are top views of an exemplary configuration of struts for a skeletal frame. [Figure 13A] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a further exemplary skeletal frame and interface chassis. [Figure 13B] FIG. 13B is a partial top view of the example skeletal frame and interface chassis of FIG. 13A. [Figure 14A] 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary interface chassis and an exemplary shroud connected to a face engagement portion in accordance with an aspect of the present technology; [Figure 14B] FIG. 14B is a schematic diagram illustrating the adaptive operation of the structure shown in FIG. 14A. [Figure 15]1 is a perspective view of an exemplary interface chassis and an exemplary shroud connected to a face-engaging portion, in accordance with an aspect of the present technology; FIG. [Figure 16] 13 is a perspective view of an exemplary face engaging portion in accordance with one aspect of the present technology; [Figure 17A] 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary shroud provided in an interface structure in accordance with an aspect of the present technique; FIG. [Figure 17B] FIG. 17B is a cross-sectional view of the arrangement shown in FIG. 17A in accordance with an example of the present technology. [Figure 17C] FIG. 17B is a cross-sectional view of the arrangement shown in FIG. 17A in accordance with an example of the present technology. [Figure 18A] 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary shroud provided in an interface structure in accordance with an aspect of the present technique; FIG. [Figure 18B] FIG. 18B is a cross-sectional view of the arrangement shown in FIG. 18A in accordance with an example of the present technology. [Figure 18C] FIG. 18B is a cross-sectional view of the arrangement shown in FIG. 18A in accordance with an example of the present technology. [Figure 19A] FIG. 13 shows a partial top view of a positioning and stabilization structure according to an aspect of the present technology. [Figure 19B] FIG. 13 shows a partial top view of a positioning and stabilizing structure according to another aspect of the present technology. [Figure 20] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a positioning and stabilization structure in accordance with an aspect of the present technology. [Figure 21] 1 illustrates a top view of an interface structure according to an aspect of the present technology. [Figure 21-1] FIG. 22 is an enlarged detailed view of a portion of the interface structure of FIG. 21. [Figure 21-2] FIG. 22 is an enlarged detailed view of a portion of the interface structure of FIG. 21. [Figure 21A] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a head mounted display system in accordance with one aspect of the present technology. [Figure 21B] FIG. 2 shows a side view of a positioning and stabilization structure for a head mounted display system. [Figure 21C] FIG. 2 shows a side view of another positioning and stabilization structure for a head mounted display system. [Figure 21D] 21D shows a cross-sectional view of the positioning and stabilization structure of FIG. 21C. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0102] 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 the present disclosure is for the purpose of describing only the particular examples described herein, and is not intended to be limiting.

[0103] The following description is provided in conjunction 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, a single feature or combination of features in any example may constitute an additional example.

[0104] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. 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

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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 be additional stimuli present that augment or replace stimuli associated with one of an additional four senses.

[0107] In some forms, certain immersive technologies may present a combination of a virtual environment and the user's environment to the user. At least a portion of the resulting environment may include the virtual environment. In some instances, the entire resulting environment may be a virtual environment (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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] 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 to the 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.

[0110] 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 close to the eyes for easy viewing, but far enough away to avoid discomfort. Furthermore, the electronic screen may need to be placed far enough away so that the user can simultaneously wear corrective lenses, such as glasses. Additionally, 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., especially relative to the eyes), as this could cause dizziness or discomfort to the user. Thus, these devices may be supported to fit snugly on the user's head to limit relative movement between the user's eyes and the device.

[0111] In one form, the present technology includes a method of using a VR device, comprising supporting the device on a user's head near at least one of the user's eyes and within the user's line of sight.

[0112] 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.

[0113] Features disclosed below in the context of a device configured for VR shall be understood to be applicable to a device configured for AR, unless the context clearly requires otherwise. Similarly, features disclosed below in the context of a device configured for AR shall be understood to be applicable to a device configured for VR, unless the context clearly requires otherwise. For the avoidance of doubt, features disclosed in the context of a device that does not include a transparent display through which a user can observe the real world shall be understood to be applicable to a device with such a transparent display, unless the context clearly requires otherwise. Similarly, features disclosed in the context of a device that includes a transparent display through which the real world can be observed shall be understood to be applicable to a device in which the display is electronic and the real world cannot be viewed directly through the transparent material. 5.2 Virtual reality display systems

[0114] As shown in FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B, a display device, display system, display interface, or head-mounted display system 1000 according to an embodiment of the present technology includes the following functional aspects: an interface structure 1100, a head-mounted display unit 1200, and a positioning and stabilization structure 1300. In some forms, the functional aspects may provide one or more physical components. In some forms, one or more physical components may provide one or more functional aspects. The head-mounted display unit 1200 may include a display. In use, the head-mounted display unit 1200 is positioned to be located near and in front of the user's eyes so that the user can observe the display.

[0115] In other aspects, head mounted display system 1000 may also include a display unit housing 1205, optical lenses 1240, a controller 1270, a speaker 1272, a power source 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

[0116] Head-mounted display unit 1200 may include structure for providing a viewable output to a user. In particular, 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.).

[0117] In some examples, the head mounted display unit 1200 may include a display screen 1220, a display unit housing 1205, an interface structure 1100, and / or an 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 the head mounted display unit 1200. Additionally, the display screen 1220, the display unit housing 1205, the interface structure 1100, and / or the optical lens 1240 may be included in the head mounted display system 1000 but may not be part of the head mounted display unit 1200. 5.2.1.1 Display screen

[0118] Some forms of head-mounted display unit 1200 include a display, e.g., a display screen, not shown in FIG. 4B, provided within a display housing 1205. The display screen may include electrical components that provide a viewable output to a user.

[0119] In one form of the present technology, the display screen provides a light output viewable by a user that allows the user to view the virtual environment and / or virtual objects.

[0120] The display screen may be located in proximity to the user's eyes such that the user can view the display screen, for example, the display screen may be located in front of the user's eyes, and the display screen may output computer-generated images or a virtual environment.

[0121] In some forms, the display screen is an electronic display. The display screen may be a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a light emitting diode (LED) screen.

[0122] In certain configurations, the display screen may include a backlight, which may help to illuminate the display screen, especially when the display screen is viewed in a dark environment.

[0123] 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.

[0124] In some forms, 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, the movement of the user, input from the user, etc.).

[0125] In certain configurations, a portion of the display screen may be visible to only one eye of the user, i.e., may be located proximate to and in front of only one eye (e.g., the right eye) of the user and may be hidden from the other eye (e.g., the left eye).

[0126] In one example, the display screen may be split into two sides (eg, a left and a right side) and two images may be displayed at a time (eg, one image on each side).

[0127] Similar images may be displayed on each side of the display screen, and in some instances the images may be identical, while in other instances the images may be slightly different.

[0128] 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.

[0129] 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

[0130] In some forms of the present technology, the display unit housing 1205 may provide 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.

[0131] 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.

[0132] 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 since 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.

[0133] A display unit housing 1205 according to other forms of the present technology may comprise a soft, flexible, resilient material such as silicone rubber.

[0134] 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 that includes a substantially rectangular or substantially oval profile.

[0135] In a particular form, the display unit housing 1205 may include a top side 1230, a bottom side 1232, a left side 1234, a right side 1236, and a front side 1238. The display screen 1220 is held in place during use.

[0136] In certain configurations, the upper surface 1230 and the lower surface 1232 may have substantially the same shape.

[0137] In one form, the upper surface 1230 and the lower surface 1232 may be substantially flat and extend along parallel planes (eg, substantially parallel to the Frankfort Horizon in use).

[0138] In certain configurations, the outer left surface 1234 and the outer right surface 1236 may be substantially the same shape.

[0139] In one form, the outer left surface 1234 and the outer right surface 1236 may be curved and / or rounded between the upper surface 1230 and the lower surface 1232. The rounded and / or curved surfaces 1234, 1236 may be comfortable for a user to grasp and hold when donning and / or doffing the head mounted display system 1000.

[0140] 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 portion of the head mounted display system 1000.

[0141] 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.

[0142] 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.

[0143] In some forms, the display screen is permanently integrated into the head mounted display system 1000. The display screen may be a device that is only usable as part of the head mounted display system 1000.

[0144] In some forms, the display unit housing 1205 may enclose 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.

[0145] 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.

[0146] In some forms, the display screen is removably integrated into the 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.

[0147] 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 cleaning or replacing the display screen.

[0148] Certain configurations 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.

[0149] In certain configurations, a cover may selectively cover the compartment and provide additional protection and / or security for the display screen 1220 while positioned within the compartment.

[0150] In certain configurations, the compartment may be open at the top. While the display interface 3000 is worn by a user, the display screen may be inserted into the compartment in a substantially vertical orientation. 5.2.1.3 Interface structure

[0151] 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 a user's face, which may provide added comfort to the user when wearing and / or using the head mounted display system 1000.

[0152] In some forms, the interface structure 1100 is coupled to a surface of the display unit housing 1205 .

[0153] 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 in use. Specifically, the user's eyes may be accommodated within the viewing opening formed by the interface structure 1100.

[0154] In some forms, an interface structure 1100 in accordance with the present technology may include a biocompatible material.

[0155] In some forms, an interface structure 1100 in accordance with the present technology may comprise a soft, flexible, and / or resilient material.

[0156] In certain configurations, an interface structure 1100 in accordance with the present technology may include silicone rubber and / or foam.

[0157] In some forms, the interface structure 1100 may contact sensitive areas of the user's face that may be a site of discomfort. The material forming the interface structure 1100 may cushion these sensitive areas, potentially limiting the user's discomfort while wearing the head mounted display system 1000.

[0158] In certain configurations, 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 because it has limited natural cushioning from muscle and fat between the user's skin and bone. Similarly, the user's nasal ridge may have little or no natural cushioning.

[0159] In some forms, the interface structure 1100 may include a single element. In some embodiments, the interface structure 1100 may be designed for mass production. For example, the interface structure 1100 may be designed to fit comfortably on a variety of face shapes and sizes.

[0160] In some forms, the interface structure 1100 may include different elements that cover different areas of the user's face. Different portions of the interface structure 1100 may include different materials, providing the user with different textures and / or cushioning in different areas. 5.2.1.3.1 Light shielding

[0161] Some forms of the head mounted display system 1000 may include a light shield that may be made of an opaque material and that blocks ambient light from reaching the user's eyes. The light shield may be part of the interface structure 1100 or may be a separate element. In some examples, the interface structure 1100 may form a light shield by shielding the user's eyes from ambient light in addition to providing a comfortable contact for contact between the 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.

[0162] In certain forms, the light shield can block ambient light from reaching the eye area, which is formed on 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, encircling a portion of the user's face in between.

[0163] In one form, the light shield may not contact the user's face along its entire circumference. For example, the light shield may be spaced apart from the user's nasal ridge. The width of this space may be substantially small to substantially limit the intrusion of ambient light. However, the user's nasal ridge may be sensitive and easily irritated. Thus, avoiding direct contact with the user's nasal ridge may increase the user's comfort while wearing the head mounted display system 1000.

[0164] 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 capable of use with a display screen that outputs AR or MR, as well as VR, the light shield is removable from the display unit housing 1205 and is coupled to the display unit housing 1205 only while using VR. 5.2.1.3.1.1 Seal formation structure

[0165] 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 the area on the seal-forming structure where a seal may form. The area where the actual seal 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 placed on the face, the tension of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, and / or the shape of the user's face.

[0166] In one form, the target seal-forming region is located on an outer surface of the interface structure 1100 .

[0167] In some forms, the light shield forms a seal-forming structure and seals against the user's face.

[0168] In certain forms, the entire periphery of the light shield or interface structure 1100 may seal against the user's skin and block ambient light from reaching the eye area. The eye area may be formed in the area of ​​the skull that is the user's 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 serion, encircling portions of the user's face in between.

[0169] 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 prevent 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. Additionally, biocompatible materials may be selected such that direct contact with the user's nasal ridge does not significantly reduce the user's comfort while wearing the head mounted display system 1000.

[0170] 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 small head sizes, and another form that is suitable for small head sizes but not 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.

[0171] In some forms, the seal-forming structure may be formed in the region of the skull that is the user's 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 serion, surrounding a portion of the user's face in between. This defined region may be the eye region.

[0172] 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

[0173] Biocompatible materials are considered to be materials that undergo a full evaluation of biological responses relevant to safety during use, according to the ISO 10993-1 standard. 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

[0174] 4B, at least one lens 1240 may be disposed 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 and reduce eye fatigue. The at least one lens 1240 may also help better observe the image displayed by the display screen 1220.

[0175] In some embodiments, the lens 1240 is a Fresnel lens.

[0176] In some forms, the lens 1240 may have a substantially frustoconical shape. In use, a wide end of the lens 1240 may be positioned near the display screen 1220 and a narrow end of the lens 1240 may be positioned near the user's eye.

[0177] In some forms, the lens 1240 may have a substantially cylindrical shape and, in use, may have substantially the same width adjacent the display screen 1220 as adjacent the user's eyes.

[0178] In some forms, the at least one lens 1240 may magnify the image on the display screen 1220 to help a user view the image.

[0179] In some forms, the head mounted display system 1000 includes two lenses 1240 (such as a binocular display), one for each of the user's eyes. In other words, each of the user's eyes may see through a separate lens positioned in front of each of the user's pupils. 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).

[0180] In certain configurations, 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 only see the image that is close to it. The user may view the two images together as one image.

[0181] 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 view 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.

[0182] By positioning and / or sizing the lenses 1240, the user may have approximately 360° peripheral vision within the virtual environment to closely simulate the physical environment.

[0183] 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

[0184] 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).

[0185] For example, the lens 1240 may be recessed relative to the interface structure 1100 such that the lens 1240 is disposed within the viewing opening. In use, each of the user's eyes is aligned with a respective lens 1240 while the user's face is positioned within the viewing opening (e.g., in an operable position).

[0186] In some forms, the periphery of the front surface of each lens 1240 may encircle 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.

[0187] In certain configurations, no image may 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), each image 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.

[0188] 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 located between a user's face and the display screen 1220.

[0189] In some forms, a portion of each lens 1240 may protrude rearwardly through the protective layer 1242. For example, a narrow end of each lens 1240 may protrude rearwardly beyond the protective layer 1242 in use.

[0190] 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 not be able to see the display screen 1220 without looking through the lens 1240.

[0191] In some forms, the protective layer 1242 may be non-planar and may include a contour that substantially matches the contours of a user's face. For example, a portion of the protective layer 1242 may be recessed forward to accommodate the user's nose.

[0192] In certain forms, the user may not need to touch the protective layer 1242 while wearing the head mounted display system 1000. This may reduce irritation from further contact with the user's face (e.g., sensitive nasal ridges, etc.). 5.2.1.4.2 Corrective lenses

[0193] In some examples, an additional lens may be coupled to lens 1240 such that a user can look through both lens 1240 and the additional lens to view the image output by display screen 1220.

[0194] In some forms, in use, the additional lens is positioned behind lens 1240. Thus, the additional lens is positioned near the user's eye, and the user looks through the additional lens before looking through lens 1240.

[0195] In some embodiments, the additional lenses may have a different magnification than lens 1240.

[0196] In some forms, the additional lenses may be prescription strength lenses that allow a user to view the display screen 1220 without glasses that may be uncomfortable to wear when using the head mounted display system 1000. The additional lenses are removable, allowing users who do not require the additional lenses to clearly view the display screen 1220. 5.2.2 Positioning and stabilizing structures

[0197] 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.

[0198] To hold the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 in a correct and operable position, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 should be ideally comfortable against the user's head to accommodate the load of the weight of the display unit and minimize facial marks and pain from prolonged use. It should also allow for a universal fit without sacrificing comfort, ease of use, or manufacturing cost. Design criteria may include adjustability over a range with a low dexterity threshold and a low-touch, simple setup solution. Further considerations include accommodating dynamic environments in which the head mounted display system 1000 may be used. As part of the immersive experience of the virtual environment, the user may communicate, i.e., speak, 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. Additionally, the entire head may move when using the head mounted display system 1000, such as movement of the user's upper body and possibly lower body, particularly movement of the head relative to the upper and lower body.

[0199] 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 the display unit housing 1205.

[0200] 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 having a rectangular cross-section. In one example, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes at least one flat strap.

[0201] 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 a user from moving their head from side to side comfortably.

[0202] In one form of the present technology, the 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 helps wick 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.

[0203] 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 the display unit housing 1205 against a portion of the user's face, particularly near the user's eyes and along the field of view. In one example, the strap may be configured as a tie.

[0204] 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-basal point of the user's head and covers a portion of the parietal bone without covering the occipital bone.

[0205] 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.

[0206] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes a third tie interconnecting the first and second ties constructed and arranged to reduce the tendency of the first and second ties to move apart from one another.

[0207] 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.

[0208] In a particular form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes straps that are configured to be breathable to allow moisture vapor to pass through the straps.

[0209] In certain forms of the present technology, a system is provided that includes a plurality of 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 sized heads but not small sized heads and another that is suitable for small sized heads but not large sized heads.

[0210] In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include cushioning material (e.g., foam padding, etc.) for contacting the user's skin. The cushioning material 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

[0211] As shown in FIG. 5B, some forms of head mounted display system 1000 or positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 include a temporal connector 1250, each of which may overlap a respective one of the user's temporal bones in use. A portion of the temporal connector 1250 in use contacts an area of ​​the user's head near the supra-aural point, i.e., above the user's ears. In some examples, the temporal connector is a strap portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. In other examples, the temporal connector is an arm of the head mounted display unit 1200. In some examples, the temporal connector of the head mounted display system 1000 may be formed in part by a strap portion (e.g., lateral strap portion 1330) of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and in part by the arm 1210 of the head mounted display unit 1200.

[0212] Each temporal connector 1250 may be located on either the left or right side of the user's head, such that the temporal connectors 1250 may be on the sides of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300.

[0213] In some forms, the temporal connector 1250 may extend in the anterior-posterior direction and be substantially parallel to the sagittal plane.

[0214] 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.

[0215] 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 .

[0216] 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 materials, etc.).

[0217] In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may be positioned, in use, generally along or parallel to the Frankfort horizontal of the head and above the cheekbones (eg, above the cheekbones of a user).

[0218] In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may sit relative to the user's head in a similar manner to the temples of eyeglasses, and may be located above the antihelix of each ear.

[0219] 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 top and bottom of the page) than it is thick (into the page).

[0220] In some forms, each of the temporal connectors 1250 may have a three-dimensional shape with curvature in all three axes (X, Y, Z). The thickness of each temporal connector 1250 is approximately 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).

[0221] 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 wearing out. This may allow a user to have a more intuitive or obvious understanding of how to use the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, 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, allowing the user to quickly fit or don the head mounted display system 1000.

[0222] 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.

[0223] In certain configurations, 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 arranged to retain its in-use shape after removal from the box (e.g., rigidizers may be formed to maintain the shape of a portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300). Advantageously, the shape of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is curved in a manner similar to 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.

[0224] 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.

[0225] 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, sewing, hook and loop material, and / or stud connectors.

[0226] 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.

[0227] In some forms, the temporal connector 1250 comprises a flexible material (eg, textile) and may be comfortable against the user's skin and may not require additional layers for increased comfort. 5.2.2.2 Rear support

[0228] 5B, some forms of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include a rear support 1350 to help support the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 near the user's eyes. The rear support 1350 helps secure the display screen and / or the display unit housing 1205 to the user's head and properly orient the display screen 1220 near the user's eyes.

[0229] In some forms, the rear support 1350 may be coupled to the display unit housing 1205 via the temporal connector 1250.

[0230] In certain configurations, the temporal connector 1250 may be directly coupled to the display unit housing 1205 and the rear support 1350 .

[0231] In some forms, the rear support 1350 may have a three-dimensional contour that conforms to the shape of the user's head. For example, the three-dimensional shape of the 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.

[0232] 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.

[0233] 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.

[0234] In certain forms, the rear support 1350 is the lowest part of the entire head mounted display system 1000. For example, the 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 the rear support 1350 is below the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205.

[0235] In some forms, the 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 the rear support 1350 pulling on the user's head. 5.2.2.3 Forehead Support

[0236] 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 in 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 be above the frontal bone of the user's head. In certain forms, the forehead support 1360 may be above the sphenoid bone and / or the temporal bone. This allows the forehead support 1360 to be located above the user's eyebrows.

[0237] 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.

[0238] 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.

[0239] 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.

[0240] 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.

[0241] 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 rear support 1350.

[0242] 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.

[0243] In some forms, the forehead support 1360 can be positioned at an angle 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.

[0244] In some forms, the forehead support 1360 may be offset from the 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 strap 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 strap. The offset between the forehead support 1360 and the rear strap 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, further contributing to maintaining the proper position 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 increasing the angle of the rear strap so that it is vertical. 5.2.2.4 Adjustable straps

[0245] A portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may be adjustable to provide a selective tensioning force 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.

[0246] In some forms, the display unit housing 1205 may include at least one loop or eyelet 1254 through which the at least one temporal connector 1250 may be threaded and folded back. The length of the temporal connector 1250 threaded through each eyelet 1254 may be selected by a 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.

[0247] In some forms, the at least one temporal connector 1250 may include an adjustment portion 1256 and a receiver 1258. The adjustment portion 1256 may be placed through an eyelet 1254 on the display unit housing 1205 and coupled (e.g., by folding back) to the receiver 1258. The adjustment portion 1256 may include a hook material and the receiver 1258 may include a loop material (or vice versa) to releasably hold the adjustment portion 1256 in a desired position. In some examples, the hook and loop material may be Velcro®.

[0248] 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).

[0249] In certain forms, the adjustment portion 1256 may comprise a flexible and / or resilient material and may conform to the shape of the user's head and / or 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

[0250] In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure 3000 may include a top strap portion that can cover an upper region of the user's head. The head mounted display system 1000 shown in FIG. 1A has a top strap portion, for example.

[0251] In some forms, the top strap portion may extend between a front portion of the head mounted display system 1000 and a rear region of the head mounted display system 1000.

[0252] 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.

[0253] In certain configurations, 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.

[0254] In certain configurations, 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 top edge. The top strap portion may be connected to the display unit housing 1205 via the forehead support 1360.

[0255] 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 an upper edge of the rear support 1350.

[0256] In some forms, the top strap portion may overlie the frontal and parietal bones of the user's head.

[0257] In certain configurations, the top strap portion may extend along a sagittal plane as it extends between the front and rear of the head mounted display system 1000.

[0258] In certain configurations, the top strap portion may exert an at least partially upwardly directed tensile force and may counteract the force of gravity.

[0259] In certain configurations, the top strap portion may apply at least a partially rearwardly directed pulling force, which may pull the interface 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).

[0260] In some forms, the top strap portion may be adjustable to provide 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.

[0261] 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 be folded 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.

[0262] In some forms, the top strap portion may include an adjustment portion and a receiver portion. The adjustment portion may be located through an eyelet 1254 and may be coupled to the receiver portion (e.g., by folding back on itself). The adjustment portion may include hook material and the receiver portion 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

[0263] In some forms, the display unit housing 1205 and / or the display screen 1220 may pivot relative to the user's face while the user is wearing the positioning and stabilizing structure. This allows the user to observe the physical environment while still wearing the user interface 3000. This may be convenient for a user who wants to take a break to view the virtual environment, but does not want to remove the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300.

[0264] In some forms, a pivot connection 1260 may be formed between a top of the display unit housing 1205 and the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, the pivot connection 1260 may be formed in the top surface 1230 of the display unit housing 1205.

[0265] In certain forms, the pivot connection 1260 may be coupled to a forehead support 1360. The display unit housing 1205 may be pivotable about a lower edge of the forehead support 1360.

[0266] In one form, the temporal connector 1250 may be coupled to the forehead support 1360 such that the display unit housing 1205 can pivot.

[0267] 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

[0268] 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 Controllers

[0269] In some forms, the controller 1270 includes a handheld device that can be easily held by a user in one hand.

[0270] In certain configurations, the head mounted display system 1000 may include two handheld controllers that are substantially identical to one another, with each handheld controller operable by a respective hand of a user.

[0271] In some forms, a user may manipulate the handheld controller(s) to control and / or manipulate virtual objects in the virtual environment.

[0272] In some embodiments, the handheld controller includes a button that can be operated by a user, for example, a user's fingers may press a button while holding the handheld controller.

[0273] In some forms, the handheld controller may include directional controls (e.g., a joystick, a control pad, etc.) that a user may operate with their thumbs while holding the handheld controller.

[0274] In certain forms, the controller 1270 may be wirelessly connected to the head mounted display unit 1200. For example, the controller 1270 and the head mounted display unit 1200 may be connected via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or similar means.

[0275] In certain configurations, the controller 1270 and the head-mounted display unit 1200 may be connected via a wired connection. 5.2.3.2 Fixed Controller

[0276] In some forms, at least a portion of the controller 1270 may be integrally formed on the display unit housing 1205.

[0277] 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 for operation by a user's fingers when the user places the palm of his / her hand on the left or right side 1234, 1236 of the display unit housing 1205. Control buttons may also be located on other surfaces of the display unit housing 1205.

[0278] In some forms, a user may operate a control button to control at least one operation of the head mounted display system 1000. For example, the control button may be an on / off button to selectively control whether the display screen 1220 outputs an image to the user.

[0279] In certain embodiments, the control buttons and the head mounted display unit 1200 may be connected via a wired connection.

[0280] In some forms, the head mounted display system 1000 may include both a handheld controller and control buttons. 5.2.4 Speakers

[0281] Referring to FIG. 6, in some forms, the head-mounted display system 1000 includes a sound system or speakers 1272 that may be connected to the head-mounted display unit 1200 and positionable near the user's ears to provide auditory output to the user.

[0282] 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.

[0283] 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.

[0284] 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).

[0285] In some forms, the speaker 1272 (eg, the volume of the speaker 1272 ) may be controlled using the controller 1270 . 5.2.5 Power supply

[0286] With reference to FIG. 6, some forms of the head mounted display system 1000 may include a power source 1274 capable of providing power to the head mounted display unit 1200 and other electrical components of the head mounted display system 1000.

[0287] 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.

[0288] In certain forms, the power source 1274 may include a portable battery capable of powering the head mounted display unit 1200. A portable battery may allow for increased mobility for the user as compared to a wired electrical connection.

[0289] In certain forms, the head mounted display system 1000 and / or other electronic components of the head mounted display system 1000 may include an internal battery, allowing it to be used without a power source 1274.

[0290] In some forms, the head mounted display system 1000 may include a power source 1274 at a location remote from the head mounted display unit 1200. Electrical wires may extend from the distal location to the display unit housing 1205 to electrically connect the power source 1274 to the head mounted display unit 1200.

[0291] 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 generally opposite the display unit housing 1205 and / or head mounted display unit 1200. Thus, the weight of the power source 1274, and the weight of the head mounted display unit 1200 and the 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 moving 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.

[0292] In certain forms, the power source 1274 may be supported by the user distal to the user's head. For example, the power source 1274 may be connected to the head mounted display unit 1200 and / or display unit housing 1205 only via an electrical connector (e.g., a wire). The power source 1274 may be stored in the user's pants pocket, a belt clip, or a similar method that supports the weight of the power source 1274. This may make the head mounted display system 1000 more comfortable for the user to wear by eliminating weight that needs to be supported by the user's head.

[0293] In some forms, the head mounted display unit 1200 may include a power source 1274. For example, the 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

[0294] 6, some configurations of the head mounted display system 1000 include a control system 1276 that helps the user control the output they receive. In particular, the control system 1276 can control the visual output from the display screen 1220 and / or the audible output from the speaker 1272.

[0295] 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 a user may be affected by the measured parameters.

[0296] In some forms, the control system 1276 is integrated into the head mounted display unit 1200. In other forms, the control system 1276 is housed in a control system support 1290 that is separate from the head mounted display unit 1200 but is connected (e.g., electrically connected) to the head mounted display unit 1200. 5.2.6.1 Power supply

[0297] 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.

[0298] 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.

[0299] 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

[0300] In some forms, the battery support 1288 may support the low power system battery 1278 and / or the main battery 1280. The battery support 1288 may be supported directly on the head mounted display system 1000.

[0301] In some forms, the battery support 1288 may be disposed within the display unit housing 1205.

[0302] In some forms, the battery support 1288 may be disposed 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 support

[0303] 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 since 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

[0304] 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.

[0305] In some examples, the external orientation sensor may be located in the physical environment in which the user is wearing the head mounted display system 1000. The external orientation sensor may track the movements of the user, similar to the 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

[0306] 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.

[0307] In some forms, the 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 direction the user's head is tilted).

[0308] In some forms, the orientation sensor 1284 includes multiple cameras positioned throughout the 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.

[0309] 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.

[0310] In certain configurations, the display screen 1220 may use the 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 the head-mounted display system 1000 (i.e., a first-person perspective). This may allow the user to navigate within the physical environment without removing the head-mounted display system 1000.

[0311] In one form, virtual objects may be displayed while the display screen 1220 displays the user's physical environment. The camera 1284 allows 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

[0312] 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 which direction at least one of the user's eyes is pointing.

[0313] In some forms, the control system 1276 may include two eye sensors, each corresponding to one eye of the user.

[0314] In some forms, the eye sensor may be located in or near the lens 1240.

[0315] 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

[0316] In some forms, the control system 1276 may include a processing system that can receive measurements from various sensors in the control system 1276.

[0317] 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

[0318] As shown in Figures 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 stabilization 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 to be located near and in front of the user's eyes so that the user can observe the display screen 1220.

[0319] In other embodiments, head mounted display system 1000 may also include interface structure 1100, controller 1270, speaker 1272, power source 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. 5.3.1 Display unit

[0320] Head-mounted display unit 1200 may include structure for providing a viewable output to a user. In particular, 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.).

[0321] In some examples, the head mounted display unit 1200 may include a display screen 1220, a display unit housing 1205, an interface structure 1100, and / or an 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 the head mounted display unit 1200. Additionally, the display screen 1220, the display unit housing 1205, the interface structure 1100, and / or the optical lens 1240 may be included in the head mounted display system 1000 but may not be part of the head mounted display unit 1200. 5.3.1.1 Display screen

[0322] As shown in Figure 5A, some forms of head-mounted display unit 1200 include a display screen 1220. The display screen may include electrical components that provide a viewable output to a user.

[0323] In one form of the present technology, the display screen provides a light output viewable by a user that allows the user to view the virtual environment and / or virtual objects.

[0324] The display screen may be located near the user's eyes so that the user can observe the display screen. For example, the display screen may be located in front of the user's eyes. The display screen 1220 may display computer-generated images that the user can view to augment the user's physical environment (e.g., the computer-generated images may be displayed as if they were present in the user's physical environment).

[0325] In some forms, the display screen is an electronic display. The display screen may be a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a light emitting diode (LED) screen.

[0326] In some forms, computer-generated images may be projected onto the display screen 1220.

[0327] 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.

[0328] In some forms, 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, the movement of the user, input from the user, etc.).

[0329] In certain configurations, a portion of the display screen may be visible to only one eye of the user, i.e., may be located proximate to and in front of only one eye (e.g., the right eye) of the user and may be hidden from the other eye (e.g., the left eye).

[0330] In one example, the display screen may be split into two sides (eg, a left and a right side) and two images may be displayed at a time (eg, one image on each side).

[0331] Similar images may be displayed on each side of the display screen, and in some instances the images may be identical, while in other instances the images may be slightly different.

[0332] 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.

[0333] 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.

[0334] 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). This may be particularly useful in AR or MR where a user desires limited virtual stimuli and wants to view the physical environment without overlaid virtual objects.

[0335] In certain configurations, particularly when using the display screen 1220 in an AR or MR environment, the display screen 1220 may be turned off while the user is wearing the display screen 1220 and interacting with the physical environment, which may allow the user to choose when to receive virtual stimuli and when to only observe the physical environment.

[0336] In certain forms, the display screen 1220 may be transparent (or translucent). For example, the display screen 1220 may be glass, allowing a user to see through the display screen 1220. This may be particularly beneficial in AR or MR applications, as it allows the user to continue to see the physical environment. 5.3.1.1.1 Optical lenses

[0337] 5A, the display screen 1220 may be disposed within a lens 1240. A user may view an image provided by the display screen 1220 through the lens 1240. The lens 1240, along with the display screen 1220, may be transparent and / or translucent, and a user may observe the physical environment while looking through the lens 1240. In some examples, a user may observe (e.g., visually observe) the physical environment with or without a computer-generated image output by the display screen 1220.

[0338] 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 see through a separate lens located in front of each of the user's pupils. Each lens 1240 may be identical, but in some examples, one lens 1240 may be different (e.g., have a different magnification) from the other lens 1240. For example, the lenses 1240 may be prescription lenses 1240, and each of the user's eyes may have a different eye prescription.

[0339] In certain configurations, 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 only see the image that is close to it. The user may view the two images together as one image.

[0340] In certain embodiments, each lens 1240 may include a separate display screen 1220 that outputs a different image, for example, a different computer-generated image may be displayed to the user's eye.

[0341] In one form, the user may control whether to simultaneously output both, one, or none of the display screens 1220. This may be useful if the user wishes to switch which eye views the computer-generated image.

[0342] 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). 5.3.1.2 Display housing

[0343] 4A and 4B, in some forms of the present technology, the display unit housing 1205 can provide 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 can also protect the display screen and / or other components of the head mounted display unit 1200. The display unit housing 1205 can include a material suitable for protecting against impact forces to the display screen. The display unit housing 1205 can contact the user's face and can include a biocompatible material suitable for limiting irritation to the user.

[0344] 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.

[0345] 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 since 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.

[0346] A display unit housing 1205 according to other forms of the present technology may comprise a soft, flexible, resilient material such as silicone rubber.

[0347] In some forms, the display screen 1220 may at least partially protrude from the display unit housing 1205. For example, unlike the VR head mounted display system 1000, the display screen 1220 of the AR (or MR) head mounted display system 1000 may not be completely enclosed by the display unit housing 1205. A user may view the display screen 1220 directly or through the display screen 1220 (e.g., the display screen 1220 is transparent or translucent).

[0348] In certain configurations, the display unit housing 1205 may support sensors or other electronics, as described below. The display unit housing 1205 may protect the electronics without substantially obstructing a user's view of the display screen 1220. 5.3.1.3 Interface structure

[0349] As shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, some forms of the present technology include an interface structure 1100 positioned and / or arranged to conform to the shape of a user's face, which may provide added comfort to the user when wearing and / or using the head mounted display system 1000.

[0350] In some forms, the interface structure 1100 is coupled to a surface of the display unit housing 1205 .

[0351] In some forms, an interface structure 1100 in accordance with the present technology may include a biocompatible material.

[0352] In some forms, an interface structure 1100 in accordance with the present technology may comprise a soft, flexible, and / or resilient material.

[0353] In certain configurations, an interface structure 1100 in accordance with the present technology may include silicone rubber and / or foam.

[0354] In some forms, the interface structure 1100 may contact sensitive areas of the user's face that may be a site of discomfort. The material forming the interface structure 1100 may cushion these sensitive areas, potentially limiting the user's discomfort while wearing the head mounted display system 1000.

[0355] In certain configurations, 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 because it has limited natural cushioning from muscle and fat between the user's skin and bone. Similarly, the user's nasal ridge may have little or no natural cushioning.

[0356] In some forms, the interface structure 1100 may include a single element. In some embodiments, the interface structure 1100 may be designed for mass production. For example, the interface structure 1100 may be designed to fit comfortably on a variety of face shapes and sizes.

[0357] In some forms, the interface structure 1100 may include different elements that cover different areas of the user's face. Different portions of the interface structure 1100 may include different materials, providing the user with different textures and / or cushioning in different areas.

[0358] In some forms, the interface structure 1100 may include nose pads (e.g., those used in eyeglasses) that may contact the sides of the user's nose. The nose pads may exert light pressure on the user's nose to maintain the position of the head mounted display system 1000, but may not exert a force that causes significant discomfort (e.g., the nose pads may not experience a backward-directed pulling force). 5.3.2 Positioning and stabilizing structures

[0359] As shown in Figures 5A and 5B, 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.

[0360] To hold the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 in a correct and operable position, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 should be ideally comfortable against the user's head to accommodate the load of the weight of the display unit and minimize facial marks and pain from prolonged use. It should also allow for a universal fit without sacrificing comfort, ease of use, or manufacturing cost. Design criteria may include adjustability over a range with a low dexterity threshold and a low-touch, simple setup solution. Further considerations include accommodating dynamic environments in which the head mounted display system 1000 may be used. As part of the immersive experience of the virtual environment, the user may communicate, i.e., speak, 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. Additionally, the entire head may move when using the head mounted display system 1000, such as movement of the user's upper body and possibly lower body, particularly movement of the head relative to the upper and lower body.

[0361] 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 the display unit housing 1205.

[0362] 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 having a rectangular cross-section. In one example, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes at least one flat strap.

[0363] 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 a user from moving their head from side to side comfortably.

[0364] In one form of the present technology, the 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 helps wick 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.

[0365] 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 the display unit housing 1205 against a portion of the user's face, particularly near the user's eyes and along the field of view. In one example, the strap may be configured as a tie.

[0366] 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-basal point of the user's head and covers a portion of the parietal bone without covering the occipital bone.

[0367] 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.

[0368] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes a third tie interconnecting the first and second ties constructed and arranged to reduce the tendency of the first and second ties to move apart from one another.

[0369] 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.

[0370] In a particular form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes straps that are configured to be breathable to allow moisture vapor to pass through the straps.

[0371] In certain forms of the present technology, a system is provided that includes a plurality of 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 sized heads but not small sized heads and another that is suitable for small sized heads but not large sized heads.

[0372] In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include cushioning material (e.g., foam padding, etc.) for contacting the user's skin. The cushioning material 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. 5.3.2.1 Temporal Connector

[0373] 4C, some forms of head mounted display system 1000 or positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 include temporal connectors 1250, each of which may overlie a respective one of the user's temporal bones in use. A portion of the temporal connectors 1250 in use contacts an area of ​​the user's head near the supra-aural point, i.e., above both of the user's ears.

[0374] Each temporal connector 1250 may be located on either the left or right side of the user's head, such that the temporal connectors 1250 may be on the sides of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300.

[0375] In some forms, the temporal connector 1250 may extend in the anterior-posterior direction and be substantially parallel to the sagittal plane.

[0376] In some forms, the temporal connector 1250 may be coupled to the display unit housing 1205. For example, the temporal connector 1250 may be connected to a lateral side of the display unit housing 1205.

[0377] In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may be positioned, in use, generally along or parallel to the Frankfort horizontal of the head and above the cheekbones (eg, above the cheekbones of a user).

[0378] In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may sit relative to the user's head in a similar manner to the temples of eyeglasses, and may be located above the antihelix of each ear.

[0379] 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 top and bottom of the page) than it is thick (into the page).

[0380] In some forms, each of the temporal connectors 1250 may have a three-dimensional shape with curvature in all three axes (X, Y, Z). The thickness of each temporal connector 1250 is approximately 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).

[0381] 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 wearing out. This may allow a user to have a more intuitive or obvious understanding of how to use the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, 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, allowing the user to quickly fit or don the head mounted display system 1000.

[0382] 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.

[0383] In certain configurations, 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 arranged to retain its in-use shape after removal from the box (e.g., rigidizers may be formed to maintain the shape of a portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300). Advantageously, the shape of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is curved in a manner similar to 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.

[0384] 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.

[0385] 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, sewing, hook and loop material, and / or stud connectors.

[0386] 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.

[0387] In some forms, the temporal connector 1250 comprises a flexible material (eg, textile) and may be comfortable against the user's skin and may not require additional layers for increased comfort.

[0388] In certain configurations, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include pairs of temporal connectors 1250. The temporal connectors 1250 may be shaped like temples or arms of eyeglasses and may similarly be applied to the user's head. For example, the temporal arms 3304 may provide a force directed to the side of the user's head (e.g., toward the respective temporal bones). 5.3.2.2 Rear support

[0389] 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 the display unit housing 1205 (shown in Figure 4B) near the user's eyes. The rear support 1350 helps secure the display screen and / or the display unit housing 1205 to the user's head and properly orient the display screen near the user's eyes.

[0390] In some forms, the rear support 1350 may be coupled to the display unit housing 1205 via the temporal connector 1250.

[0391] In certain configurations, the temporal connector 1250 may be directly coupled to the display unit housing 1205 and the rear support 1350 .

[0392] In some forms, the rear support 1350 may have a three-dimensional contour that conforms to the shape of the user's head. For example, the three-dimensional shape of the 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.

[0393] 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.

[0394] 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.

[0395] In certain forms, the rear support 1350 is the lowest part of the entire head mounted display system 1000. For example, the 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 the rear support 1350 is below the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205.

[0396] In some forms, the 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 the rear support 1350 pulling on the user's head. 5.3.2.3 Forehead Support

[0397] 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 in use. 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 and / or temporal bones, such that the forehead support 1360 may be located above the user's eyebrows.

[0398] 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.

[0399] 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.

[0400] 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.

[0401] 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.

[0402] 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 rear support 1350.

[0403] 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.

[0404] In some forms, the forehead support 1360 can be positioned at an angle 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.

[0405] In some forms, the forehead support 1360 may be offset from the 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 strap 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 strap. The offset between the forehead support 1360 and the rear strap 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, further contributing to maintaining the proper position 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 increasing the angle of the rear strap so that it is vertical. 5.3.2.4 Adjustable straps

[0406] 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.

[0407] In some forms, the display unit housing 1205 may include at least one loop or eyelet 1254 (as shown in FIG. 4B ) through which the at least one temporal connector 1250 may be threaded and folded back. The length of the top strap portion 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 threaded through the eyelet 1254 may provide more tension.

[0408] In some forms, the at least one temporal connector 1250 may include an adjustment portion 1256 and a receiver portion 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 (e.g., by folding back) to the receiver portion 1258. The adjustment portion 1256 may include a hook material and the receiver portion 1258 may include a loop material (or vice versa) to releasably hold the adjustment portion 1256 in a desired position. In some examples, the hook and loop material may be Velcro®.

[0409] In certain forms, the adjustment portion 1256 may comprise a flexible and / or resilient material and may conform to the shape of the user's head and / or 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). 5.3.2.4.1 Top Strap Section

[0410] In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure 3000 may include a top strap portion that may cover the upper region of the user's head.

[0411] In some forms, the top strap portion may extend between a front portion of the head mounted display system 1000 and a rear region of the head mounted display system 1000.

[0412] 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.

[0413] In certain configurations, 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.

[0414] In certain configurations, 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 top edge. The top strap portion may be connected to the display unit housing 1205 via the forehead support 1360.

[0415] 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 an upper edge of the rear support 1350.

[0416] In some forms, the top strap portion may overlie the frontal and parietal bones of the user's head.

[0417] In certain configurations, the top strap portion may extend along a sagittal plane as it extends between the front and rear of the head mounted display system 1000.

[0418] In certain configurations, the top strap portion may exert an at least partially upwardly directed tensile force and may counteract the force of gravity.

[0419] In some forms, the top strap portion may be adjustable to provide 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.

[0420] 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 be folded 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.

[0421] In some forms, the top strap portion may include an adjustment portion and a receiver portion. The adjustment portion may be located through an eyelet 1254 and may be coupled to the receiver portion (e.g., by folding back on itself). The adjustment portion may include hook material and the receiver portion 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®. 5.3.2.5 Rotation Control

[0422] In some forms, the display unit housing 1205 and / or the display screen 1220 may pivot relative to the user's face while the user is wearing the positioning and stabilizing structure. This allows the user to observe the physical environment without looking into the head-mounted display unit 1200 (e.g., without looking at a computer-generated image). This may be convenient for a user who wants to take a break to view the virtual environment, but does not want to take off the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300.

[0423] In certain forms, the pivot connection 1260 may be coupled to a forehead support 1360. The head mounted display unit 1200 may be capable of rotating about an axis extending between the temporal connectors 1250 (e.g., a substantially horizontal axis that, in use, may be substantially perpendicular to the Frankfort Horizontal).

[0424] In certain forms, the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 include a pair of arms 1210 that extend away from the display screen 1220 (e.g., in a cantilever configuration) and may extend in a rearward direction when in use.

[0425] In certain configurations, the pair of arms 1210 may extend at least partially along the temporal connector 1250 and may be connected to the temporal connector 1250 at a pivot connection 1260 .

[0426] 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.

[0427] In some forms, the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 may include a neutral position (eg, see FIG. 5B, approximately horizontal when in use) and a rotated position (eg, rotated about a horizontal axis when in use).

[0428] In certain forms, the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 may rotate between about 0° and about 90° relative to the temporal connector 1250. In certain forms, the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 may rotate between about 0° and about 80° relative to the temporal connector 1250. In certain forms, the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 may rotate between about 0° and about 70° relative to the temporal connector 1250. In certain forms, the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 may rotate between about 0° and about 60° relative to the temporal connector 1250. In certain forms, the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 may rotate between about 0° and about 50° relative to the temporal connector 1250. In certain configurations, the display screen 1220 and / or the display unit housing 1205 may be rotated between about 0° and about 45° relative to the temporal connector 1250. At least in the maximum rotation position, the display screen 1220 may be above the user's eyes so that the user does not need to look through the display screen 1220 to see the physical environment. 5.3.3 Controller

[0429] 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. 5.3.3.1 Handheld Controllers

[0430] In some forms, the controller 1270 includes a handheld device that can be easily held by a user in one hand.

[0431] In certain configurations, the head mounted display system 1000 may include two handheld controllers that are substantially identical to one another, with each handheld controller operable by a respective hand of a user.

[0432] In some forms, a user may manipulate the handheld controller(s) to control and / or manipulate virtual objects in the virtual environment.

[0433] In some embodiments, the handheld controller includes a button that can be operated by a user, for example, a user's fingers may press a button while holding the handheld controller.

[0434] In some forms, the handheld controller may include directional controls (e.g., a joystick, a control pad, etc.) that a user may operate with their thumbs while holding the handheld controller.

[0435] In certain forms, the controller 1270 may be wirelessly connected to the head mounted display unit 1200. For example, the controller 1270 and the head mounted display unit 1200 may be connected via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or similar means.

[0436] In certain configurations, the controller 1270 and the head-mounted display unit 1200 may be connected via a wired connection. 5.3.3.2 Fixed Controller

[0437] In some forms, at least a portion of the controller 1270 may be integrally formed on the display unit housing 1205.

[0438] 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 for operation by a user's fingers when the user places the palm of his / her hand on the left or right side 1234, 1236 of the display unit housing 1205. Control buttons may also be located on other surfaces of the display unit housing 1205.

[0439] In some forms, a user may operate a control button to control at least one operation of the head mounted display system 1000. For example, the control button may be an on / off button to selectively control whether the display screen 1220 outputs an image to the user.

[0440] In certain embodiments, the control buttons and the head mounted display unit 1200 may be connected via a wired connection.

[0441] In some forms, the head mounted display system 1000 may include both a handheld controller and control buttons.

[0442] In some forms, it may be desirable to use only the control button(s) on the AR or MR device. While wearing the AR or MR head-mounted display system 1000, the user may interact with the physical environment (e.g., walking around, using tools, etc.). Thus, the user may prefer to keep their hands off the controller 1270. 5.3.4 Speakers

[0443] Referring to FIG. 6, in some forms, the head-mounted display system 1000 includes a sound system or speakers 1272 that may be connected to the head-mounted display unit 1200 and positionable near the user's ears to provide auditory output to the user.

[0444] 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.

[0445] 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.

[0446] 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).

[0447] In some forms, the speaker 1272 (eg, the volume of the speaker 1272 ) may be controlled using the controller 1270 . 5.3.5 Power supply

[0448] With reference to FIG. 6, some forms of the head mounted display system 1000 may include a power source 1274 capable of providing power to the head mounted display unit 1200 and other electrical components of the head mounted display system 1000.

[0449] 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.

[0450] In certain forms, the power source 1274 may include a portable battery capable of powering the head mounted display unit 1200. A portable battery may allow for increased mobility for the user as compared to a wired electrical connection.

[0451] In certain forms, the head mounted display system 1000 and / or other electronic components of the head mounted display system 1000 may include an internal battery, allowing it to be used without a power source 1274.

[0452] In some forms, the head mounted display system 1000 may include a power source 1274 at a location remote from the head mounted display unit 1200. Electrical wires may extend from the distal location to the display unit housing 1205 to electrically connect the power source 1274 to the head mounted display unit 1200.

[0453] 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 generally opposite the display unit housing 1205 and / or head mounted display unit 1200. Thus, the weight of the power source 1274, and the weight of the head mounted display unit 1200 and the 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 moving 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.

[0454] In certain forms, the power source 1274 may be supported by the user distal to the user's head. For example, the power source 1274 may be connected to the head mounted display unit 1200 and / or display unit housing 1205 only via an electrical connector (e.g., a wire). The power source 1274 may be stored in the user's pants pocket, a belt clip, or a similar method that supports the weight of the power source 1274. This may make the head mounted display system 1000 more comfortable for the user to wear by eliminating weight that needs to be supported by the user's head. 5.3.6 Control system

[0455] 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.

[0456] 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.

[0457] 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 . 5.3.6.1.1 Integrated power support

[0458] In some forms, the battery support 1288 may support the low power system battery 1278 and / or the main battery 1280. The battery support 1288 may be supported directly on the head mounted display system 1000.

[0459] In some forms, the battery support 1288 may be disposed within the display unit housing 1205.

[0460] In some forms, the battery support 1288 may be disposed 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. 5.3.6.1.2 Remote power support

[0461] 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 since the weight of the low power system battery 1278 and / or the main battery 1280 is not supported on the user's head. 5.3.6.2 Orientation Sensor

[0462] 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.

[0463] In some examples, the external orientation sensor may be located in the physical environment in which the user is wearing the head mounted display system 1000. The external orientation sensor may track the movements of the user, similar to the orientation sensor 1284 described above. The use of an external orientation sensor may reduce the weight that the user needs to support. 5.3.6.2.1 Camera

[0464] 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.

[0465] In some forms, the 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 direction the user's head is tilted).

[0466] In some forms, the orientation sensor 1284 includes multiple cameras positioned throughout the 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. 5.3.6.3 Eye sensor

[0467] 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 which direction at least one of the user's eyes is pointing.

[0468] In some forms, the control system 1276 may include two eye sensors, each corresponding to one eye of the user.

[0469] In some forms, the eye sensor may be located in or near the lens 1240.

[0470] 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.

[0471] In some forms, the user's eyes may act as a controller, and the user may move their eyes to interact with virtual objects. For example, a virtual cursor may track the position of the user's eyes. An eye sensor may track and measure the user's eye movements and communicate with the processing system 1286 (described below) to move the virtual cursor. 5.3.6.4 Processing System

[0472] In some forms, the control system 1276 may include a processing system that can receive measurements from various sensors in the control system 1276.

[0473] 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). 5.4 Further aspects of the current technology

[0474] 7A-7D show a head mounted display system 1000 according to another example of the present technology. In this example, the head mounted display system 1000 includes a head mounted display unit 1200 configured in a compact shape. The head mounted display system 1000 includes an interface structure including a face engaging portion 1110 configured to contact a user's face in use and a connection flange portion 1118 arranged to support the face engaging portion. Between the head mounted display unit 1200 and the face engaging portion 1110 is a shroud 7000. The shroud 7000 serves to support the head mounted display unit 1200 relative to the face engaging portion 1110 as described herein. The shroud 7000 includes a rear portion 7002 connected to the face engaging portion 1110 and a front portion 7004 defining a viewing opening through which a display of the head mounted display unit 1200 can be viewed in use. The shroud 7000 further includes a radially outwardly facing light blocking surface 7006 extending between the rear portion 7002 and the front portion 7004 .

[0475] With reference to FIG. 7C, the face engagement portion 1110 includes a forehead portion 1112 configured to extend across the sagittal plane of the user's head and engage at least a portion of the user's forehead in use. The face engagement portion 1110 also includes a pair of cheek portions 1114 disposed on either side of the user's nose in use and configured to engage the user's cheeks in use. Side portions 1116 of the face engagement portion extend between the forehead portion 1112 and the cheek portions 1114 and are configured to engage the sides of the face next to the user's eyes in use. With reference to FIG. 7D and FIG. 10A, a nose portion 1115 bridges between the cheek portions 1114 and may be configured to extend around (or over) the user's nose and / or engage the user's nose in use.

[0476] In an example, the face-engaging portion 1110 may be constructed from an elastomer (e.g., silicone). In some examples, the elastomer may be provided with a textile to provide a user-contacting surface.

[0477] The face engagement portion is configured to contact the user's face around the user's eyes during use. The interface structure 1110 may be engaged to the user's face in areas over the user's nose, upper jaw, cheekbones, sphenoid bone, and frontal bone. The interface structure 1100 may be engaged to the user's face in the areas shown in FIG. 4D, for example.

[0478] 8 shows another example of a compact head mounted display unit 1200, in this example shaped to be concave when facing backwards (i.e., toward the user). In this example, the front portion 7004 has a complementary shape to the head mounted display unit 1200. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the front portion 7004 may have a convex shape complementary to the concave shape of the head mounted display unit 1200.

[0479] In an example, different portions of the face-engaging portion 1110 may have different functional characteristics to improve the human body compatibility for differences between users. For example, the human body difference of the forehead portion 1112 and / or cheek portion 1114 may be lower than the side portion. As shown in Figs. 9, 9A-1, 9B-1, the face-engaging portion 1110 typically includes a flange in the form of a connection flange portion 1118 provided on a non-user-contacting portion of the interface chassis 1102 and supports a loop portion (e.g., a curved portion having a free end) 1120 forming a user-contacting portion that provides a face-contacting surface for the user. A cushion (e.g., foam) 1130 is provided inside the loop portion 1120. The size of the cushion 1130 may be different in various regions of the face-engaging portion 1110. For example, the cushion 1130 of the forehead portion 1112 may be larger than the cushion of the side portion 1116 as shown in Figs. 9 to 9B-1.

[0480] In examples where the loop portion of the face-engaging portion forms a closed shape, the user-contacting portion may be a side of the closed shape configured to contact a user and the non-user-contacting portion may be an opposing side not configured to contact a user. In such examples, an interface chassis (described below) may be configured to connect to the non-user-contacting portion of the face-engaging portion.

[0481] In the illustrated example of FIG. 9, the cross-section of the side portion 1116 of the face engagement portion 1110 may be different than the cross-section of the forehead portion 1112 and / or cheek portion 1114. For example, the aspect ratio of the cross-section of the side portion 1116 may be greater than the aspect ratio of the cross-section of the forehead portion 1112 and / or cheek portion 1114. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 9B-1, the connection flange portion 1118 of the side portion 1116 may be configured to more lightly bind the loop portion 1120 to the interface chassis 1102 than the forehead portion 1112 and / or cheek portion 1114 (e.g., by using a thinner thickness of material). That is, the connection flange portion 1118 may be thinner on the side portion 1116 than on the forehead portion 1112 and / or cheek portion 1114. Such an arrangement may allow the side portions 1116 to be more flexible (e.g., less stiff) compared to the forehead portion 1112 and / or cheek portion 1114, allowing the sides to better conform to varying contours along the sides of different users' faces.

[0482] In further examples, additional cords may be provided to provide a desired shape to the connection flange portion 1118 to improve body conformance and increase user comfort and / or shading across a wider range of users. For example, as shown in the example of FIG. 9B-3, the connection flange portion 1118 of the side portion 1116 may have a concertina section 1134, or as shown in the example of FIG. 9B-4, the connection flange portion 1118 of the side portion 1116 may have an arcuate portion 1136.

[0483] 10A , an interface structure (e.g., face-engaging portion 1110) may be connected to an interface chassis 1102 to form an interface assembly 1150. In examples, the interface chassis 1102 is comprised of a forehead portion 1103, a cheek portion 1104, a nose portion 1105, and a side portion 1106, and generally has a shape that corresponds to the shape of the face-engaging portion such that the interface chassis is coextensive with the face-engaging portion along areas of a user's face (e.g., around the user's eyes).

[0484] In some examples, each side 1106 of the interface chassis 1102 includes an upper side 1107 and a lower side 1108. In some examples, the forehead portion 1103 and the lower side 1108 are less stiff (e.g., more flexible) than the cheek portion 1104, the nose portion 1105, and the upper side 1107, allowing the interface chassis 1102 to have desired flexibility and desired stiffness in certain areas.

[0485] With continued reference to FIG. 10A , the interface assembly 1150 may be connected to a frame assembly 7250 to form a head mounted display support assembly 1400 configured to support a head mounted display unit in use. The head mounted display support assembly 1400 may be connected to a positioning and stabilizing structure (e.g., a structure as described elsewhere in this disclosure) to hold the head mounted display unit in an operating position in front of the user's face. The frame assembly 7250 may include a skeletal frame 7100 and a light blocking surface 7006 (not shown in FIGS. 10A , 11A , 12A , or 13A ) provided to the skeletal frame (the frame assembly may also be referred to as a shroud). The interface assembly 1150 (e.g., the interface chassis 1102 ) may be connected to the frame assembly 7250 (e.g., the skeletal frame 7100 ) at a number of separate locations, such that at least some portions of the interface assembly 1150 may remain movable relative to at least some portions of the frame assembly 7250 . In one example, the interface assembly 1150 may include an interface attachment point 1152 oriented and configured to connect to a frame attachment point 7252 on the frame assembly 7250 .

[0486] In examples, the skeletal frame 7100 includes a rear portion 7110 connected to the face engagement portion 1110 via the interface chassis 1102, and a front portion 7150 that defines a viewing opening through which the display can be viewed in use. The rear portion 7110 of the skeletal frame includes a forehead portion 7112 that crosses the sagittal plane of the user's head in use, and a pair of side portions 7114 that extend downwardly from the forehead portion 7122. Each side portion 7114 includes an upper portion 7116 and a lower portion 7118. The front portion 7150 includes an upper portion 7152 and a lower portion 7154. In this example, the outer portion 7114 of the rear portion 7110 (e.g., the lower portion 7118) extends forward to connect to a lower portion 7154 of the front portion 7150 of the skeletal frame 7100. The front portion 7150 may be directly or indirectly connected to a head mounted display unit.

[0487] In this example, the front portion 7150 of the skeletal frame is stiffer (e.g., less flexible) than the rear portion 7110 and / or side portions 7114 (e.g., the front portion may include a material that is stiffer than the material of the rear portion 7110 and / or side portions 7114).

[0488] With respect to the interface chassis 1102 and the skeletal frame 7100, in examples, portions of these components may be made relatively rigid by material selection (i.e., using semi-rigid, rigid, or relatively rigid materials compared to other portions of the components) or by incorporation of stiffening materials (i.e., using composite materials in which portions of the composite material are stiffer than other portions of the composite material, thereby adding stiffness to the composite material). Portions of the interface chassis and skeletal frame shown with cross-hatching may be relatively rigid compared to portions of the components shown without cross-hatching.

[0489] In examples, the relatively rigid portions of the interface chassis 1102 and skeletal frame 7100 may comprise a semi-rigid or rigid material (e.g., a thermoplastic material (e.g., polyamide)) and the relatively flexible portions may comprise a relatively soft thermoplastic material (e.g., Hytrel®) or an elastomer that is more rigid than the face engaging portion 1110. For example, with reference to FIG. 10A , the front portion 7150 of the skeletal frame 7100 may comprise polyamide and the side portions 7114 may comprise Hytrel®.

[0490] In examples, the interface chassis 1102 and skeletal frame 7100 may have a rod-like or cylindrical shape, as shown in some figures, in other examples, the interface chassis 1102 and skeletal frame 7100 may have other shapes in cross section, such as a polygon, curved sides, or a closed shape having at least some curved sides, etc.

[0491] 10A and 10B, the skeletal frame 7100 includes two struts 7130 extending between a rear portion 7110 and a front portion 7150, offset laterally on opposite sides of the sagittal plane of a user's head in use, to provide a support structure between the rear portion 7110 and the front portion 7150. Side portions 7114 extending between the rear portion 7110 and the front portion 7150 may also form part of the support structure. Due to the nature of the skeleton, openings 7160 (only some of which are identified in the drawings by reference letters) are formed between each portion of the skeletal frame 7100. In an example, the openings 7160 may be covered with a light blocking surface (i.e., a shroud).

[0492] In this example, the struts 7130 are stiffened and include a combination of stiffened sections 7134 and flexible sections 7132 (i.e., the flexible sections are more flexible (e.g., less stiff / stiff) compared to the stiffened sections (e.g., the flexible sections may include a material that is more flexible (e.g., less stiff / stiff) than the material of the stiffened sections). With reference to FIG. 10B, this arrangement allows bending of the skeletal frame 7100 (e.g., the rear section 7110 and / or the front section 7050 bending relative to the struts 7130 and / or the side section 7114 bending relative to the front section 7150) to help accommodate variations in user anatomy characteristics. The solid lines shown in FIG. 10B indicate expected average shapes of designated portions of the skeletal frame 7100, and the dashed lines indicate exemplary bending limits of designated portions of the skeletal frame 7100 during use.

[0493] In the example shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, the forehead portion 1103 and the sides of the interface chassis 1102 are more flexible (e.g., less rigid / stiff) than the cheek portion 1104 and nose portion 1105. In the skeletal frame 7100, the upper portion 7116 is more rigid (e.g., less flexible) than the lower portion 7118 and the forehead portion 7112. Furthermore, the stiffened portion 7134 of the strut is connected to the rigid portion of the upper side portion 7116. With reference to FIG. 11B, this arrangement allows for flexing of the skeletal frame 7100 (e.g., the upper portion 7116 and the strut 7130 flex relative to the forehead portion 7112 and / or the front portion 7150, and / or the lower portion 7118 flex relative to the upper portion 7116 and / or the front portion 7150, helping to accommodate variability in the user's anatomy). The solid lines shown in FIG. 11B indicate the expected average shape of the specified portion of skeletal frame 7100, and the dashed lines indicate exemplary bending limits of the specified portion of skeletal frame 7100 in use.

[0494] The example shown in Fig. 12A is substantially similar in structure to the example shown in Fig. 10A. However, in the example of Fig. 12A, the interface chassis 1102 and the skeletal frame 7100 are configured to connect at the cheeks 1104 and sides 1106, rather than at the nose 1105. With reference to Fig. 12B, this arrangement allows for flexing of the skeletal frame 7100, which helps accommodate variability in the anatomical characteristics of users. The solid lines shown in Fig. 12B indicate an expected average shape of the indicated portion of the skeletal frame 7100, and the dashed lines indicate exemplary limits of bending of the indicated portion of the skeletal frame 7100 during use.

[0495] Flexing of the interface chassis 1102 is enabled in part by pivoting of the struts 7130 relative to the rear 7110 and / or front 7150 of the skeletal frame 7100. Reference to pivoting motion should be understood in the sense of relative motion of two parts rather than requiring rotational motion of one part about a pin or shaft. In an example, the struts 7130 may include a flexible section 7132 and a rigidified section 7134. In the example shown in FIG. 12C, the rigidified section 7134 is separated from both the rear 7110 and front 7150 by the flexible section 7132, providing flexible connections at both ends to enable rotational motion. In the example shown in Figure 12D, the stiffening portion 7134 is connected to the stiffening portion of the rear portion 7110, thereby providing a relatively inflexible connection between the strut and the rear portion, but is separated from the front portion 7150 by the flexible portion 7132 (which provides a relatively flexible connection between the strut and the front portion). Thus, in the example of Figure 12D, pivotal movement of the strut 7130 relative to the rear portion 7110 is limited or prevented, but pivotal movement of the strut relative to the front portion is allowed. Figure 12E shows the reverse arrangement to Figure 12D, where pivotal movement of the strut 7130 relative to the rear portion 7110 is allowed and pivotal movement of the strut relative to the front portion 7150 is limited or prevented.

[0496] In the example shown in Figures 13A and 13B, the forehead portion 1103, cheek portion 1104, and nose portion 1105 are stiffer (e.g., less flexible) than the side portions 1106 of the interface chassis 1102. In this example, the skeletal frame 7100 includes a central upper strut 7130 that is generally aligned with the sagittal plane of the user's head in use, a first angled strut 7136 that extends from a position proximal to the central upper strut 7130 at the rear portion 7110 to a position laterally offset from the central upper strut 7130 at the front portion 7150, and a second angled strut 7136 that mirrors the first angled strut 7136. With reference to Figure 13B, this arrangement allows for flexing of the skeletal frame 7100, which helps accommodate variations in the anatomical characteristics of users. The solid lines shown in FIG. 13B indicate the expected average shape of the indicated portion of skeletal frame 7100, and the dashed lines indicate exemplary limits of bending of the indicated portion of skeletal frame 7100 during use.

[0497] For example, the central top strut 7130 and / or the first and second angled struts 7136 may rotate relative to the rear portion 7110 and / or the front portion 7150 of the skeletal frame.

[0498] 14A, a light blocking surface 7006 in the form of a flexible sheet material, such as a fiber or fiber-containing composite, may be applied to the skeletal frame 7100 to provide a shroud that covers the frame 7100 and blocks light intrusion. In other examples, materials other than textile (e.g., plastic) may be used as the light blocking surface 7006. In this example, the shroud (i.e., the skeletal frame 7100 in combination with the light blocking surface 7006) is made of a relatively flexible material at the rear 7110 such that the rear end is adjustable to fit various sizes of interface chassis 1102. In this example, the interface chassis 1102 is relatively rigid, although it should be understood that some flexing may be achieved to accommodate variations in human body shape for each size of interface chassis (see FIG. 14B).

[0499] 15, in an example, the rear 7110 of the skeletal frame 7110 may be relatively stiff compared to that shown in FIG 14A, however some flexing of the interface chassis may still be achieved to accommodate variations in human body shape for each size of interface chassis 1102 (as shown in FIG 14B).

[0500] In examples, the face engaging portion 1110 may be configured to be more adaptable than the shroud 7000, or more specifically the skeletal frame 7100, in other examples to accommodate changes in human body shape, particularly in the lateral region. Figure 16 shows an example of a face engaging portion 1110 that includes a closed loop 1122 that encircles a cushion 1130 and upper and lower folds 1124 that provide a concertina effect.

[0501] In some examples, the shroud 7000, and more particularly the skeletal frame 7100, may be configured to be selectively adjustable between individual frame shape settings. In such embodiments, the face engaging portion 1110 may be configured to be more adaptable as compared to the other examples described above.

[0502] In some examples, the face engaging portion 1110 (eg, having a cross section as shown in FIG. 16) may be manufactured flat and molded during assembly.

[0503] In some examples, the interface chassis 1102 is integral with the skeletal frame 7100, and the interface chassis 1102 constitutes at least a portion of the rear 7110 of the skeletal frame 7100. In some examples, the rear 7110 and the side 7114 of the skeletal frame may be replaced by the interface chassis 1102. In other examples, the interface chassis 1102 may be omitted, and the facial engagement portion 1110 may be directly connected to the skeletal frame 7100.

[0504] 17A-17C, according to one aspect of the present technology, an interface chassis 1102 includes a main portion 1140 having a radially outward surface 1145, and a lip portion 1142 provided at a rear end of the main portion 1140 and extending radially outward. As shown in FIG. 17B, a face engagement portion 1110 is provided at the lip portion 1142, and a rear end of the shroud 7000 overlaps the radially outward surface 1145 of the main portion 1140 of the interface chassis 1102, but does not overlap the lip portion 1142. In the example of FIG. 17C, at least one airway 1144 is provided between the interface chassis 1102 and the shroud 7000, and more specifically, a tortuous path is provided between the lip portion 1142 and the shroud 7000 and between the main portion 1140 and the shroud 7000.

[0505] 18A-18C, the peripheral flange 7070 of the shroud 7000 extends across a portion of the radially outward surface of the face engaging portion 1110. In the example of FIG. 18C, at least one airway 1144 is provided between the face engaging portion 1110 (and interface chassis 1102) and the shroud 7000, and more specifically, a tortuous path is provided between the peripheral flange 7070 and the face engaging portion 1110, and between the shroud 7000 and the interface chassis 1102.

[0506] As shown in Fig. 19A, according to one aspect of the invention, the positioning and stabilizing structure includes a pair of temporal connectors, or lateral strap portions 1250, configured to be positioned on respective lateral sides of a user's head in use. In this example, the lateral strap portions 1250 are configured to be connected to a shroud 7000. Fig. 19B shows another example in which the lateral strap portions 1250 are configured to be connected to a head mounted display unit 1200 and a pair of secondary lateral strap portions 1251 are configured to be connected between the lateral strap portions 1250 and the shroud 7000.

[0507] 20, a pivot connection 1260 may be provided between the lateral strap portion 1250 and the shroud 7000. In examples, the pivot connection 1260 is configured to bias the shroud 7000 to rotate upwardly, i.e., to increase the contact pressure of the forehead portion 1112 of the face engagement portion 1110 against the cheek portion 1114 of the face engagement portion 1110.

[0508] In other examples, the lateral strap portion 1250 may be connected to other strap portions of the positioning and stabilizing structure. For example, the rear strap portion may extend around the rear of the user's head (e.g., at or near the occipital bone) and connect to a respective lateral strap portion. The lateral strap portion 1250 may extend to the top of the user's head (e.g., at or near the coronal plane) and connect to an upper lateral strap portion that connects to a respective lateral strap portion. In one example, the upper strap may extend along the sagittal plane in use, connecting between the upper lateral strap portion and a central portion of the upper edge of the shroud 7000 and serving to support the head mounted display unit in an operating position.

[0509] In some examples, as shown in Figures 21, 21-1 and 21-2, the connecting flange portion 1118 of the face engaging portion 1110 may provide a concertina section to assist in adapting to changes in the user's anatomy. Figure 21-1 shows the concertina section in a more extended position than the concertina section of Figure 21-2.

[0510] In the example shown in Figures 21A-21C, each of the lateral strap portions 1250 is comprised of a rigid portion integral with the skeletal frame 7100. As shown in Figure 21B, the rigid lateral strap portion 1250 may include a non-linear portion, e.g., an arcuate portion 1252 that arcs over the user's ear. In an example, as shown in Figures 21C and 21D, a flexible and / or elastic material is disposed around the rigid lateral strap portion 1250. In this example, the lateral strap portion 1250 is surrounded by a fabric sleeve 1253 comprised of a semi-rigid or rigid material, such as plastic, Hytrel® (thermoplastic polyester elastomer), or other similar material. In this example, a cable positioning feature 1255 (e.g., an open cable clip) is provided on the radially outward surface of the lateral strap portion 1250. A power and / or communication cable 1262 between the head mounted display unit 1200 and a component at the back of the user's head (e.g., a battery) may be secured by cable positioning feature 1255 and hidden by textile sleeve 1253. 5.5 Washing

[0511] In some forms, the head mounted display system 1000, or at least a portion thereof, is designed to be used by a single user and cleaned (e.g., with soapy water) in the user's home without the need for special equipment for disinfection and sterilization. In particular, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and the interface structure 1100 are designed to be cleanable, since both come into direct contact with the user's head.

[0512] In another embodiment, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and interface structure 1100 components are used in laboratories, clinics, and hospitals where a single head mounted display may be reused by multiple people or used during medical procedures. In each laboratory, clinic, or hospital, the head mounted display or its associated components may be reprocessed and exposed to processes such as, for example, thermal disinfection, chemical disinfection, sterilization, etc. Therefore, the design of the positioning and stabilizing structure and interface structure may need to be validated for disinfection and sterilization of the mask in accordance with ISO 17664.

[0513] Materials may be selected that can withstand reprocessing. For example, robust materials may be used for the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 to withstand exposure to high levels of disinfectant solutions and agitation with brushes. Additionally, some components of the positioning and stabilizing structure are separable and can be removed during use to improve the effectiveness of reprocessing.

[0514] In some examples, the interface structure 1100 comes into contact with the user's head during use and may therefore become soiled (e.g., due to sweat, etc.). The interface structure 1100 is designed to be removable from the display unit housing 1205, allowing it to be removed for cleaning or replacement. It may be desirable to clean the interface structure 1100 without wetting the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. Alternatively, or in addition, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may become soiled from contact with the user's head and may be removed for cleaning and / or replacement independently of the interface structure 1100. In either case, being able to disconnect these components for such purposes facilitates this task.

[0515] In some examples, a cover (e.g., including textile, silicone, etc.) is removably disposed over the interfacing structure and can be removed after use for cleaning and / or replacement. The cover can provide a surface that can be easily cleaned after use while still allowing the interfacing structure 3400 to remain secured to the display unit housing 1205. 5.6 External Computer

[0516] In some forms, the head-mounted display system 1000 (e.g., VR, AR, and / or MR) may be used in combination with another device, such as a computer or video game console. For example, the display interface may be electrically connected to a separate device.

[0517] In some forms, at least some of the processing for head mounted display system 1000 may be performed by a separate device that may have a larger or more powerful processor than a user can comfortably support (e.g., the processor of the separate device may be too heavy for a user to comfortably support on the head). 6 Glossary

[0518] For purposes of this disclosure, in certain aspects of the technology, one or more of the following definitions may apply. In other aspects of the technology, alternative definitions may apply. 6.1 General

[0519] Surrounding: In certain forms of the present technology, the term surroundings is understood as (i) outside the treatment system or patient, and (ii) immediately surrounding the treatment system or patient.

[0520] For example, ambient light with respect to a display interface may be light in the immediate surroundings of the user, such as light in the same room as the user or an adjacent room, and / or natural light from the sun.

[0521] In certain embodiments, ambient (e.g., acoustic) noise may be considered to be, for example, the background noise level of the room the user is in, other than noise generated by the display device or emanating from speakers connected to the display device. Ambient noise may be generated by sources outside the room.

[0522] Leakage: The term leakage refers to unintended exposure to light. In one example, leakage may occur as a result of a faulty seal between the display unit and the user's face.

[0523] Radiated Noise (Acoustic): Radiated noise herein refers to noise transmitted to a user by the surrounding air. In one form, radiated noise can be quantified by measuring the sound power / pressure level of a target object according to ISO 3744.

[0524] User: A person who operates a display interface and views images provided by the display interface. For example, a person may wear, put on, or take off the display interface. 6.1.1 Material

[0525] Silicone or Silicone Elastomer: Synthetic rubber. In this specification, silicone refers to liquid silicone rubber (LSR) or compression molded silicone rubber (CMSR). One commercially available form of LSR is SILASTIC (included in the range of products sold under this trademark) manufactured by Dow Corning. Another manufacturer of LSR is Wacker. Unless otherwise specified, exemplary forms of LSR have a Shore A (or Type A) indentation hardness in the range of about 35 to about 45 as measured using ASTM D2240.

[0526] Polycarbonate: A thermoplastic polymer of bisphenol A carbonate. 6.1.2 Mechanical properties

[0527] Elasticity: The ability of a material to absorb energy during elastic deformation and release the energy when unloaded.

[0528] Elasticity: Virtually all of the energy is released when unloaded. Examples include certain silicone and thermoplastic elastomers.

[0529] Hardness: The ability of a material to resist deformation (expressed, for example, in Young's modulus or indentation hardness scale measured on a standardized sample size). "Soft" materials may include silicones and thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) and may be easily deformed by finger pressure, for example. "Hard" materials may include polycarbonate, polypropylene, steel, aluminum, etc., and may not easily deform under finger pressure, for example.

[0530] Stiffness (or Rigidity) of a Structure or Component: The ability of a structure or component to resist deformation in response to an applied load. The load can be a force or a moment (e.g., compression, tension, bending, or torsion). A structure or component may offer different resistance in different directions. The opposite of stiffness is flexibility.

[0531] Floppy Structure or Component: A structure or component that, when made to support its own weight, changes shape (e.g., bends) within a relatively short period of time (e.g., 1 second).

[0532] Rigid Structure or Component: A structure or component that does not change shape substantially when subjected to loads typically encountered in use. An example of such a use would be setting and maintaining a user interface in a sealed relationship.

[0533] As an example, an I-beam may have a different bending stiffness (resistance to bending load) in a first direction than in an orthogonal second direction. As another example, a structure or component may be floppy in a first direction and rigid in a second direction. 6.2 Material

[0534] A foam that contains completely capsulated cells, i.e. closed cells.

[0535] Elastane: A polymer made from polyurethane.

[0536] Elastomer: A polymer that exhibits elastic properties. For example, silicone elastomers.

[0537] A copolymer of ethylene and vinyl acetate.

[0538] A filament (mono or poly), strand, thread, yarn, or thread that is much longer than it is wide. Textiles may include materials of animal origin, such as wool or silk, materials of plant origin, such as linen or cotton, and synthetic materials, such as polyester or rayon. Textile refers specifically to materials that can be woven or intertwined (e.g., into a network) with other textiles of the same or different materials.

[0539] Materials such as polyurethane in which gas bubbles have been introduced during manufacturing to produce a lightweight cellular shape.

[0540] A synthetic rubber produced by the polymerization of chloroprene. Neoprene is used in such products as Breath-O-Prene.

[0541] A synthetic polyamide that has elastic properties and can be used, for example, to form textiles / filaments for textiles.

[0542] Open-cell: Foam that contains air cells that are not completely encapsulated, i.e. open cells.

[0543] Polycarbonate: A transparent thermoplastic polymer typically made from bisphenol A carbonate.

[0544] Polyethylene: A thermoplastic that is resistant to chemicals and moisture.

[0545] Polyurethane (PU): A plastic material made by copolymerizing isocyanates and polyhydric alcohols, which can take the form of, for example, foam (polyurethane foam) or rubber (polyurethane rubber).

[0546] Semi-open cell: A foam containing a combination of closed and open (encapsulated) cells.

[0547] Silicone or Silicone Elastomer: Synthetic rubber. In this specification, silicone refers to liquid silicone rubber (LSR) or compression molded silicone rubber (CMSR). One commercially available form of LSR is SILASTIC (included in the range of products sold under this trademark) manufactured by Dow Corning. Another manufacturer of LSR is Wacker. Unless otherwise specified, representative forms of LSR have a Shore A (or Type A) indentation hardness in the range of about 35 to about 45, as measured using ASTM D2240.

[0548] Spacer Fabric: A composite structure in which two outer textile substrates are joined and separated by an intermediate layer of monofilament.

[0549] Spandex: An elastic textile or textile that contains primarily polyurethane. Spandex is used in commercial products. Lycra.

[0550] Textile: A material that includes at least one natural or man-made textile. In this specification, textile refers to any material formed as a network of interwoven and / or entangled textiles. Types of textiles may include fabrics constructed by intertwining textiles using specific techniques. These may include weaving, knitting, crocheting, knotting, tatting, tufting, or braiding. Cloth is sometimes used synonymously with fabric, but may also refer specifically to processed fabrics. Other types of textiles may be constructed using bonding (e.g., chemical, mechanical, thermal, etc.), felting, or other nonwoven processes. Textiles created by any of these processes are like fabrics and may be considered synonymous with fabrics in this application.

[0551] Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE): A generally low modulus, flexible material that can be stretched at room temperature and returns to nearly its original length when the stress is released. Commercial products that use TPE include Hytrel, Dynaflex, and Medalist.

[0552] Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU): A thermoplastic elastomer with excellent durability and flexibility. 6.3 Mechanical properties

[0553] Elasticity: The ability of a material to absorb energy during elastic deformation and release the energy when unloaded.

[0554] Elasticity: Virtually all of the energy is released when unloaded. Examples include certain silicone and thermoplastic elastomers.

[0555] Hardness: The ability of a material to resist deformation (expressed, for example, by Young's modulus or by the indentation hardness scale measured on a standardized sample size). ● "Soft" materials may include silicone or thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) and may easily deform under finger pressure, for example. • "Hard" materials may include polycarbonate, polypropylene, steel or aluminum, and may not easily deform under finger pressure, for example.

[0556] Stiffness of a Structure or Component: The ability of a structure or component to resist deformation in response to an applied load. The load can be a force or a moment (e.g., compression, tension, bending or torsion). A structure or component may offer different resistance in different directions.

[0557] Floppy Structure or Component: A structure or component that, when made to support its own weight, changes shape (e.g., bends) within a relatively short period of time (e.g., 1 second).

[0558] Rigid Structure or Component: A structure or component that does not change substantially in shape when subjected to loads typically encountered in use. As one example, an I-beam may include a different bending stiffness (resistance to bending load) in a first direction compared to a second orthogonal direction. In another example, a structure or component may be soft in a first direction and stiff in a second direction. 6.4 Anatomy

[0559] The following definitions correspond to the references shown in Figures 1-2. 6.4.1 Facial anatomy

[0560] Alar: outer wall or "wing" of each nostril (complex number: alar)

[0561] Outermost point of the nostril: The outermost point of the nostril.

[0562] Alar bend (or alar apex) point: The last point on the baseline of the bend of each alar, located within the crease formed by the junction of the alar and the cheek.

[0563] Pinna: the entire externally visible part of the ear.

[0564] (Nose) Bony Framework: The bony framework of the nose includes the nasal bones, the frontal process of the maxilla, and the nasal part of the frontal bone.

[0565] (Nasal) Ridge: The nasal ridge is a protrusion down the midline of the nose, extending from the ala to the tip of the nose.

[0566] (Nose) Cartilage framework: The nasal cartilage framework includes the septal, lateral, greater, and lesser cartilages.

[0567] Cherion: A dot at the corner of the mouth.

[0568] Columella: the strip of skin that separates the nostrils and runs from the tip of the nose to the upper lip.

[0569] Columellar angle: the angle between a line drawn through the midpoint of the nostril opening and a line drawn perpendicular to the Frankfort horizontal while intersecting the subnasal passage.

[0570] Medial canthus: the point where the upper and lower eyelids meet, near the serion.

[0571] Skull: refers to the frontal ventral part, i.e. the structure covering the skull.

[0572] External occipital protuberance: a protuberance on the outer surface of the occipital bone.

[0573] Frankfurt horizontal plane: A line extending from the lowest point of the orbital rim to the left tryon. The tragus is the deepest point of the recess of the auricle above the tragus.

[0574] Glabellar space: Located on the soft tissue, it is the most prominent point on the midsagittal plane of the forehead.

[0575] Interpupillary distance: The distance between the centers of the pupils of the eyes.

[0576] Lateral nasal cartilage: A usually triangular shaped cartilage plate whose upper edge is connected to the nasal bone and the frontal process of the maxilla, and whose lower edge is connected to the large alar cartilage.

[0577] Lip, lower (lipa inferi): The point between the mouth and the upper part of the face, in the midsagittal plane.

[0578] Lip, upper (lipa): The point on the face between the mouth and the nose, in the midsagittal plane.

[0579] Greater alar cartilage: a plate of cartilage located below the lateral nasal cartilage, curved around the anterior part of the nostril. Its posterior end is connected to the frontal process of the maxilla through a layer of tough fibrous membrane containing three or four small anterior alar cartilages.

[0580] Nostril: The nearly oval opening that forms the entrance to the nasal cavity. The singular form of nostril is nostril. The nostrils are separated by the nasal septum.

[0581] Nasolabial fold or nasolabial fold: a crease or groove of skin extending from either side of the nose to the corners of the mouth, separating the cheek from the upper lip.

[0582] Nasolabial angle: the angle between the bridge of the nose and the upper lip where it meets the bottom of the nose.

[0583] Inferior ear point: The lowest point where the pinna attaches to the facial skin.

[0584] Superior ear base point: The highest point of the auricle and facial skin.

[0585] Nose tip: the most prominent point or tip of the nose, visible when the rest of the head is viewed from the side.

[0586] Philtrum: a midline groove that extends from the lower edge of the nasal septum in the upper lip area to the top of the lip.

[0587] Mental point: the point located in the soft tissue at the center of the most anterior part of the jaw.

[0588] (Nasal) Ridge: The nasal ridge is a protrusion down the midline of the nose, extending from the ala to the tip of the nose.

[0589] Sagittal plane: A vertical plane from anterior (front) to posterior (back). The midsagittal plane is the sagittal plane that divides the body into left and right halves.

[0590] Cerion: The most concave point on the soft tissue covering the nasofrontal suture area.

[0591] Nasal septum cartilage (nose): The nasal septum cartilage forms part of the nasal septum, separating the front of the nasal cavity.

[0592] Nadir of the nose: the point on the lower edge of the nose ala, where the base of the ala joins the skin of the upper lip.

[0593] Subnasal point: Located on the soft tissue, the point where the columella joins the upper lip in the midsagittal plane.

[0594] Supramenton: The largest depression in the midline of the lower lip between the lower lip and the soft tissue protuberance

[0595] Brow ridge: protrusion of the frontal bone above the eye.

[0596] Temporal muscle: muscle of the temporal fossa that serves to elevate the mandible.

[0597] temporomandibular joint: a freely movable joint between the temporal bone and the mandible that allows opening, closing, thrusting, retraction, and lateral movement of the mandible.

[0598] Upper lip vermilion: The red part of the lip covered by stratified squamous epithelium that is continuous with the oral mucosa in the gingivolabial sulcus. 6.4.2 Skull anatomy

[0599] Frontal bone: The frontal bone contains a large vertical portion called the frontal scale, which corresponds to the area called the forehead.

[0600] Lateral nasal cartilage: The part of the cartilage that is on the outside of the nasal septum cartilage and below the nasal bone.

[0601] Mandible: The mandible forms the lower jaw. The mental protuberance is the bony protuberance of the jaw that forms the chin.

[0602] Masseter minor: The lower part of the masseter muscle that lifts the lower jaw.

[0603] Maxilla: The maxilla forms the upper jaw and lies above the mandible and below the eye socket. The frontal process of the maxilla projects upwards beside the nose and forms part of its lateral border.

[0604] Nasal bones: The nasal bones are two small oval bones that vary in size and shape in different individuals. They are positioned side by side in the central section and part of the face and their junction forms the "bridge" of the nose.

[0605] Nasal base: the area where the frontal bone and the two nasal bones meet, the depression between the eyes and just above the bridge of the nose.

[0606] Occipital bone: The occipital bone is located at the rear and bottom of the skull. It contains an oval opening, the foramen magnum, which connects the cranial cavity with the spinal canal. The curved plate behind the foramen magnum is the occipital scale.

[0607] Orbit: bony cavity within the skull that contains the eye.

[0608] Parietal bone: The parietal bones are the articulated bones that form the top and sides of the skull.

[0609] Nasal septum cartilage: Cartilage of the nasal septum.

[0610] Sphenoid bone: wedge-shaped bone at the base of the skull.

[0611] Supraorbital foramen: opening in the inferior bone of the orbit through which the supraorbital nerve, artery, and vein pass.

[0612] Temporal bone: The temporal bone lies at the base and sides of the skull and supports parts of the face called the temples.

[0613] Trapezius minor: A triangular superficial muscle located in the upper back.

[0614] Cheekbones: The face contains two cheekbones, located at the top and sides of the face and forming the cheek protuberances. 6.5 User Interface

[0615] Frame: A frame is a mask structure that is loaded in tension between two or more connection points with the headgear. The frame may fit snugly against the user's face to limit and / or prevent light ingress and / or egress.

[0616] Hoop: A hoop refers to a type of positioning and stabilizing structure designed for use on the head. For example, a hoop may include one or more posts, ties, and a collection of stiffeners configured to position and hold a user interface in place on a user's face to hold a display unit in an operating position in front of the user's face. Some ties are formed of soft, flexible, and resilient materials, such as laminated composites of foam and fabric. In some forms, the term headgear is synonymous with the term hoop.

[0617] Membrane: Membrane is taken to mean a typically thin-walled element, preferably offering substantially no resistance to bending and resistance to stretching.

[0618] Seal: When used as a noun ("seal") it can refer to a structure, and when used as a verb ("seal") it can refer to an effect. Two elements can be constructed and / or arranged to achieve a "seal" or a "seal" between them, but not require a separate "seal" element per se.

[0619] Shell: A shell is taken to mean a curved, relatively thin structure that has bending, tensile, and compressive stiffness. For example, the curved structural wall of a mask may be a shell. In some forms, the shell may be faceted. In some forms, the shell may be airtight. In some forms, the shell may not be airtight.

[0620] Stiffener: A stiffener is taken to mean a structural component designed to increase the bending resistance of another component in at least one direction.

[0621] Strut::Strut is taken to mean a structural component designed to increase the compressive resistance of another component in at least one direction.

[0622] Swivel (noun): A subassembly of components configured to rotate, preferably independently, about a common axis, preferably under low torque. In one form, a swivel may be configured to rotate through an angle of at least 360 degrees. In another form, a swivel may be configured to rotate through an angle of less than 360 degrees.

[0623] Tie (noun): A structure designed to withstand tension. 6.6 Shape of structure

[0624] The product of the present technology may include one or more three-dimensional mechanical structures, such as a mask cushion or impeller. The three-dimensional structures may be bounded by two-dimensional surfaces. These surfaces may be differentiated using labels to describe the orientation, location, function or some other characteristic of the associated surfaces. For example, the structure may include one or more of a front surface, a back surface, an inner surface, and an outer surface. In another example, the seal-forming structure may include a face-contacting (e.g., outer) surface and a separate non-face-contacting (e.g., bottom or inner) surface. In another example, the structure may include a first surface and a second surface.

[0625] To facilitate the description of the shape of three-dimensional structures and surfaces, we first consider a cross section across the surface of the structure at a point p. With reference to Figures 3A-3E, examples of cross sections at point p on a surface and the resulting planar curves are shown. Figures 3A-3E also show the outward normal vector at p. The outward normal vector at point p points away from the surface. In some examples, we describe the surface from the perspective of a fictional small person standing upright on the surface. 6.6.1 Curvature in one dimension

[0626] The curvature of a plane curve at p may be described as having a sign (eg, positive, negative) and a magnitude (eg, the radius of a circle that touches the curve at 1 / p).

[0627] Positive curvature: If the curve at p bends towards the outward normal, the curvature at that point is interpreted as positive (a hypothetical little person would have to walk uphill if they were to walk away from point p). See Figure 3A (relatively large positive curvature compared to Figure 3B) and Figure 3B (relatively small positive curvature compared to Figure 3A). Such curves are commonly called concave curves.

[0628] Zero curvature: If the curve at p is a straight line, the curvature is considered to be zero (when the hypothetical little person leaves point p, he can walk horizontally, neither up nor down). See Figure 3C.

[0629] Negative curvature: If the curve at p moves away from the outer normal, the curvature in that direction at that point is considered negative (if the hypothetical little person leaves point p, he has to walk downhill). See Figure 3D (relatively small negative curvature compared to Figure 3E) and Figure 3E (relatively large negative curvature compared to Figure 3F). Such curves are commonly called convex curves. 6.6.2 Curvature of two-dimensional surfaces

[0630] The description of a shape at a given point on a two-dimensional surface according to the present technology may include multiple normal cross sections. The multiple cross sections may cut the surface in a plane that contains the outward normal (the "normal plane"), and each cross section may be taken in a different direction. Each cross section results in a plane curve with a corresponding curvature. The different curvatures at the point may have the same sign or different signs. Each of the curvatures at the point may have, for example, a relatively small magnitude. The plane curves in Figures 3A-3E may be examples of such multiple cross sections at a particular point.

[0631] Principal curvatures and directions: The directions in the normal plane where the curvature of a curve has its maximum and minimum values ​​are called the principal directions. In the example of Figures 3A-3E, the maximum curvature occurs in Figure 3A and the minimum occurs in Figure 3E, so Figures 3A and 3E are cross sections in the principal directions. The principal curvatures at p are the curvatures in the principal directions.

[0632] Surface region: A set of connected points on a surface. A set of points within a region may have similar properties, e.g. curvature or sign.

[0633] Saddle region: a region where the principal curvatures at each point have opposite signs (i.e., one is positive and the other is negative) (a hypothetical person might walk uphill or downhill depending on which way he is facing).

[0634] Dome Region: A region in which the principal curvatures at every point have the same sign (e.g., both positive (a "concave dome"), or both negative (a "convex dome")).

[0635] Cylindrical domain: A domain in which one principal curvature is zero (or, for example, zero within manufacturing tolerances) and the other principal curvature is non-zero.

[0636] Plane Area: The area of ​​a surface where both principal curvatures are zero (or, for example, zero within manufacturing tolerances).

[0637] Surface Edge: the boundary or limit of a surface or area.

[0638] Journey: In certain forms of the technology, a "journey" is taken to mean a journey in the mathematical-topological sense (e.g., a continuous space curve on a surface from f(0) to f(1)). In certain forms of the technology, a "journey" may be described as a route or course that includes, for example, a set of points on a surface. (A journey for a fictional person is where he or she walks on a surface, similar to a garden path.)

[0639] Path length: In certain forms of the present technology, "path length" is taken to mean the distance along the surface from f(0) to f(1) (i.e., the distance along a path on the surface). There may be more than one path between two points on the surface, and such paths may have different path lengths. (For a fictional person, the path length is the distance that the person should walk along the path on the surface.)

[0640] Straight-line distance: Straight-line distance is the distance between two points on a surface, but independent of the surface. On a planar area, there is a distance on the surface that has the same path length as the straight-line distance between two points on the surface. On a non-planar surface, there cannot be a path that has the same path length as the straight-line distance between two points. (To a hypothetical person, the straight-line distance corresponds to the "as the crow flies" distance.) 6.6.3 Space curve

[0641] Space Curve: Unlike a plane curve, a space curve is not necessarily on a particular plane. A space curve may be closed, i.e., it does not have an end point. A space curve may be considered a one-dimensional piece of three-dimensional space. A fictional character walking on a strand of DNA helix walks along a space curve. A typical human left ear includes a left-handed helix (see FIG. 3M). A typical human right ear includes a right-handed helix (see FIG. 3N). FIG. 3O shows a right-handed helix. The edges of structures (e.g., the edges of a membrane or an impeller) may trace space curves. In general, a space curve may be described by the curvature and twist at each point on the space curve. Twist is a measure of the way the curve emanates from the plane. Twist has a sign and a magnitude. Twist at a point on a space curve can be characterized with reference to the tangent, normal, and binormal vectors at that point.

[0642] Tangent unit vector (or unit tangent vector): For each point on a curve, the vector at the point specifies the direction and magnitude from that point. A tangent unit vector is a unit vector that points in the same direction as the curve at that point. If a hypothetical person were to fly along the curve and fall off the car at a particular point, the direction of the tangent vector would be the direction she would be traveling.

[0643] Unit normal vector: As our hypothetical person moves along the curve, this tangent vector itself changes. A unit vector that points in the same direction as the tangent vector is changing is called a unit principal normal vector. It is perpendicular to the tangent vector.

[0644] Binormal unit vector: The binormal unit vector is perpendicular to the tangent vector and the principal normal vector. Its direction can be determined by the right-hand rule (see, for example, Figure 3L) or the left-hand rule (see Figure 3K).

[0645] Tangent Plane: the plane containing the unit tangent vector and the unit principal normal vector. See Figures 3K and 3L.

[0646] Twist of a Space Curve: The twist of a point on a space curve is the magnitude of the rate of change of the binormal unit vector at that point. It measures the degree of deviation of the curve from the tangential plane. A space curve that lies in the plane has zero twist. If the space curve deviates from the tangential plane by a relatively small amount, the magnitude of twist of the space curve is relatively small (e.g., a gently sloping helical path). If the space curve deviates from the tangential plane by a relatively large amount, the magnitude of twist of the space curve is relatively large (e.g., a steeply sloping helical path). Referring to FIG. 3O, the amount of twist near the top coil of the spiral in FIG. 3O is greater than the amount of twist near the binormal bottom coil in FIG. 3O because T2>T1.

[0647] Referring to the right-hand rule in Figure 3M, a space curve that bends towards the right-hand binormal can be considered to have a positive twist in the right-hand direction (e.g., a right-handed spiral as shown in Figure 3O). A space curve that bends away from the right-hand binormal can be considered to have a negative twist in the right-hand direction (e.g., a left-handed helix).

[0648] Similarly, with reference to the left-hand rule (see FIG. 3K), a space curve oriented in a left-handed binormal direction can be viewed as having a positive left-handed twist (e.g., a left-handed helix), where a positive left-handed direction corresponds to a negative right-handed direction. 6.6.4 Holes

[0649] A surface may have one-dimensional holes (e.g., holes bounded by a plane or space curve). A thin structure with holes (e.g., a membrane) may be described as having one-dimensional holes. See, for example, how the one-dimensional holes in the surface of the structure shown in Figure 3F are bounded by a plane curve.

[0650] A structure may have a two-dimensional hole (e.g., a hole bounded by a surface). For example, an inflatable tire has a two-dimensional hole bounded by the tire's interior surface. In another example, a bladder having a cavity for air or gel may have a two-dimensional hole. In yet another example, a conduit may include a one-dimensional hole (e.g., at its inlet or its outlet) and a two-dimensional hole bounded by the inner surface of the conduit. See also the two-dimensional hole through the structure shown in FIG. 3H and bounded by a surface as shown. 6.7 Other Remarks

[0651] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the reproduction by any person of this patent document or the patent disclosure by facsimile, for purposes of disclosure in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but reserves all copyright rights thereto for all other purposes.

[0652] Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, when a range of values ​​is provided, it is understood that each intervening value between the upper and lower limits of the range, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit, and any other stated or intervening value within the range, is encompassed within the technology. If the upper and lower limits of these intervening ranges, which are independently included in the intervening range, are specifically exceeded in the stated range limit, they are also encompassed within the technology. If the stated range includes one or both of these limits, then ranges exceeding either or both of these stated limits are also encompassed within the technology.

[0653] Additionally, when one or more values ​​are described herein as being implemented as part of the technology, it should be understood that these values ​​may be approximated unless otherwise noted and may be utilized to any suitable significant figures to the extent that the actual technical implementation may permit or require.

[0654] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art. Any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of this technology, but a limited number of exemplary methods and materials are described herein.

[0655] Although particular materials are described as being preferred for use in the construction of components, obvious alternative materials having similar properties may be substituted. Further, unless stated to the contrary, any and all components described herein are understood to be manufacturable and therefore may be manufactured collectively or separately.

[0656] Please note that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include their plural equivalents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0657] All publications mentioned herein are incorporated by reference to disclose and describe the methods and / or materials that are the subject of these publications. Publications mentioned herein are provided solely for their disclosure prior to the filing date of this application. Nothing herein should be construed as an admission that the present technology does not antedate such publications by virtue of prior patents. Furthermore, the dates of publications mentioned may differ from the actual publication dates, which may require independent confirmation.

[0658] The terms "comprises" and "comprising" should be construed as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive sense, indicating that a described element, component, or step may be present in, utilized with, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not specifically stated.

[0659] The headings used in the detailed description are for the convenience of the reader and should not be used to limit the content found in the disclosure or claims as a whole. These headings should not be used in interpreting the scope of the claims or the limitations of the claims.

[0660] Although the technology herein has been described with reference to specific embodiments, it should be understood that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and applications of the technology. In some cases, terms and symbols may indicate specific details that are not necessary for the practice of the technology. For example, the terms "first" and "second" (and the like) are used, but unless otherwise specified, these terms are not intended to indicate any order, but are used to distinguish separate elements. Furthermore, although the description or illustration of process steps in the method may be described in an order, such order is not required. Those skilled in the art will recognize that such order can be changed and / or aspects can be performed simultaneously or even synchronously.

[0661] Thus, it should be understood that numerous modifications are possible in the illustrative embodiments and that other arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the present technology. [Explanation of symbols]

[0662] 100 users 1000 Head-Mounted Display System 1100 Interface Structure 1102 Chassis part 1103 Forehead 1104 Cheek 1105 Nose 1106 Side 1107 Upper part 1108 Lower part 1110 Face engagement part 1112 Forehead 1114 Cheek 1115 Nose 1116 Side 1118 Connection flange part 1120 Loop section 1122 Closed Loop 1124 Folding 1130 Cushion Main parts of the 1140 interface chassis 1142 Interface chassis lip 1144 Airway 1200 Head-mounted display unit 1205 Display Unit Housing Display Screen 1230 Upper face 1232 Lower Face 1234 Left side of face 1236 Right side of face 1238 Front 1240 Lens 1250 Temporal Connector 1251 Secondary lateral strap section 1252 Arcuate part Textile sleeve 1254 Eyelet 1255 cable locating feature 1256 Adjustment section 1258 Reception Department 1260 Pivot connection 1262 Cable 1270 Controller 1272 Speaker 1274 Power supply 1276 Control System 1278 Low Power System Battery 1280 Main Battery 1282 Real Time Clock 1284 Orientation Sensor 1286 Processing System 1288 Battery Support 1290 Control System Support 1300 Positioning and Stabilizing Structures 1350 Rear support 1360 Forehead Support 7000 Shroud 7002 Rear 7004 Front 7006 Shading surface 7100 Skeleton Frame 7110 Rear 7112 Forehead 7114 Side 7116 Upper part 7118 Lower part 7130 Post 7132 Flexible part 7134 Rigid part 7136 Angled Post 7150 front 7152 Top 7154 Lower

Claims

1. A head-mounted display system, comprising: A head-mounted display unit having a display; a positioning and stabilising structure constructed and arranged to hold the head mounted display unit in an operable position on a user's face in use; an interface structure constructed and arranged in facing relationship with a face of a user, the interface structure including a face engaging portion configured to contact the face of the user; A skeletal frame, A rear portion connected to the face engaging portion; a front portion defining a viewing opening through which, in use, said display can be viewed; and a support structure between said rear section and said front section, said support structure including a plurality of openings The skeletal frame, a shroud provided on at least an upper portion and a side portion of the skeleton frame and covering the upper portion and the side portion; A head-mounted display system comprising:

2. 2. The head mounted display system of claim 1, wherein the front portion of the skeletal frame includes an upper portion and a lower portion.

3. 3. A head-mounted display system as described in claim 2, wherein the rear portion of the skeletal frame includes a forehead portion that crosses the sagittal plane of the user's head when in use, and a pair of side portions extending downwardly from the forehead portion.

4. 4. The head mounted display system of claim 3, wherein the side portion is connected to a lower portion of the front portion of the skeletal frame.

5. 5. A head mounted display system as claimed in claim 3 or 4, wherein each of the sides includes an upper side and a lower side.

6. A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the skeletal frame includes at least one pillar extending between the rear portion and the front portion.

7. 7. The head mounted display system of claim 6, wherein the at least one support column of the skeletal frame includes at least one upper support column.

8. 8. The head mounted display system of claim 7, wherein the skeletal frame includes a first upper support and a second upper support.

9. 9. A head mounted display system as described in claim 8, wherein the first upper column and the second upper column are offset laterally on opposite sides of the sagittal plane of the user's head in use.

10. A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the skeletal frame includes a central upper post that is substantially aligned with the sagittal plane of a user's head in use.

11. 11. A head mounted display system as described in claim 10, wherein the skeletal frame includes a first angled strut extending from a position proximal to the central upper strut at the rear to a position laterally offset from the central upper strut at the front.

12. 12. A head mounted display system as described in claim 11, wherein the skeletal frame includes a second angled strut extending from a position proximal to the central upper strut at the rear to a position laterally offset from the central upper strut at the front, away from the first angled strut.

13. A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 7 to 12, wherein at least one of the upper pillars is configured to pivot relative to at least one of the rear and front portions of the skeletal frame.

14. 14. A head mounted display system as recited in claim 13, wherein pivoting of at least one of the upper posts is accomplished by a flexible connection.

15. 15. A head mounted display system as described in claim 14, wherein at least one of the upper struts includes a flexible connection to one or both of the rear and front portions of the skeletal frame.

16. 15. A head mounted display system as described in claim 14, wherein at least one of the upper struts includes a flexible connection to the rear of the skeletal frame and a relatively inflexible connection to the front of the skeletal frame.

17. 15. A head mounted display system as described in claim 14, wherein at least one of the upper struts may include a flexible connection to the front of the skeletal frame and a relatively inflexible connection to the rear.

18. A head mounted display system as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 17, wherein at least one of the upper struts may include a flexible section and a rigid section.

19. A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein one or more portions of the skeletal frame have a different rigidity than one or more other portions of the skeletal frame.

20. 20. A head mounted display system as described in claim 19, wherein the front portion of the skeletal frame has a higher stiffness than at least a portion of the rear portion of the skeletal frame.

21. 4. The head mounted display system of claim 3, wherein the front portion of the skeletal frame has a higher rigidity than the forehead and side portions of the rear portion of the skeletal frame.

22. 6. A head mounted display system as described in claim 5, wherein the rear forehead and lower portions of the skeletal frame have lower rigidity than the rear upper portion of the skeletal frame and the front portion of the skeletal frame.

23. 2. The head mounted display system of claim 1, wherein the head mounted display system includes an interface chassis between the skeletal frame and the interface structure.

24. 24. The head mounted display system of claim 23, wherein the interface chassis is integral with the skeletal frame.

25. 25. A head mounted display system as recited in claim 24, wherein the interface chassis includes at least a portion of a rear portion of the skeletal frame.

26. 24. A head mounted display system as recited in claim 23, wherein the interface chassis is configured to be connected to the skeletal frame.

27. 27. A head mounted display system as recited in claim 26, wherein the interface chassis is connected to the skeletal frame at a plurality of discrete points.

28. 27. A head mounted display system as described in claim 26, wherein a forehead portion of the interface chassis is connected to a rear forehead portion of the skeletal frame and a nose portion of the interface chassis is connected to a lower portion of the front portion of the skeletal frame.

29. 29. A head mounted display system as described in claim 28, wherein the forehead portion of the interface chassis is connected to the rear forehead portion of the skeletal frame at a proximal position in the sagittal plane of a user's head in use.

30. 27. A head mounted display system as recited in claim 26, wherein the side of the interface chassis is connected to the side of the rear portion of the skeletal frame.

31. 27. A head mounted display system as described in claim 26, wherein the forehead portion of the interface chassis is connected to the forehead portion of the rear part of the skeletal frame at two points offset laterally on opposite sides of the sagittal plane of the user's head in use, and the nose portion of the interface chassis is connected to the lower part of the front part of the skeletal frame.

32. 27. A head mounted display system as described in claim 26, wherein the forehead portion of the interface chassis is connected to the forehead portion of the rear portion of the skeletal frame at two points offset laterally on opposite sides of the sagittal plane of the user's head in use, and the side portions of the interface chassis are connected to the side portions of the rear portion of the skeletal frame.

33. 27. A head mounted display system as described in claim 26, wherein a cheek portion of the interface chassis is connected to a lower portion of the front portion of the skeletal frame.

34. 27. A head mounted display system as described in claim 26, wherein a cheek portion of the interface chassis is connected to an underside of the rear portion of the skeletal frame.

35. A head mounted display system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the shroud extends between the rear and front portions and comprises a flexible sheet material.

36. 36. A head mounted display system as recited in claim 35, wherein the shroud comprises a textile material.

37. A head-mounted display system, comprising: A head-mounted display unit having a display; a positioning and stabilising structure constructed and arranged to hold the head mounted display unit in an operable position on a user's face in use; an interface structure constructed and arranged in facing relationship with a face of a user, the interface structure including a face engaging portion configured to contact the face of the user; The shroud, Including, The shroud includes: a frame including a rear portion connected to the face engaging portion and a front portion defining a viewing opening through which the display can be viewed in use; a radially outwardly facing light blocking surface extending between said rear portion and said front portion; A head-mounted display system comprising:

38. 38. A head mounted display system as described in claim 37, wherein the head mounted display system includes an interface chassis between the shroud and the interface structure, the interface chassis including a main portion having a radially outward surface and a lip portion extending radially outward from the main portion.

39. 39. A head mounted display system as claimed in claim 38, wherein the lip portion is provided at a rear end of the main portion.

40. 40. A head mounted display system as claimed in claim 39, wherein the face engaging portion of the interface structure is provided on the lip portion.

41. 40. A head mounted display system as recited in claim 38, wherein a trailing edge of the shroud overlaps a radially outward facing surface of a main portion of the interface chassis.

42. 38. A head mounted display system as described in claim 37, wherein the head mounted display system includes an interface chassis between the shroud and the interface structure, the interface chassis including a main portion having a radially outward facing surface, the face engaging portion extending radially outward from the main portion.

43. 43. A head mounted display system as described in claim 42, wherein a trailing edge of the shroud overlaps with a radially outward facing surface of the main portion of the interface chassis and a radially outward facing surface of a face engaging portion.

44. 44. A head mounted display system as recited in claim 43, wherein at least one airway is provided between the interface chassis and the shroud.

45. 45. A head mounted display system as described in claim 44, wherein at least one said airway is provided between a radially inward facing surface of said shroud and an outward facing surface of said main portion of said interface chassis.

46. A head mounted display system as claimed in any one of claims 37 to 45, wherein the radially outwardly facing light blocking surface comprises a flexible sheet material.

47. A head mounted display system as claimed in any one of claims 37 to 46, wherein the radially outwardly facing light blocking surface comprises a textile material.

48. A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 1 to 47, wherein the face engagement portion includes a forehead portion that crosses the sagittal plane of the user's head when in use, a pair of cheek portions provided on either side of the user's nose when in use, and a side portion between the forehead portion and the cheek portion.

49. 49. A head mounted display system as described in claim 48, wherein a cross-section of the side portions of the face engaging portion differs from a cross-section of a forehead portion of the face engaging portion.

50. 50. A head mounted display system as described in claim 49, wherein an aspect ratio of the cross-section of the side portion is greater than an aspect ratio of the cross-section of the forehead portion.

51. 38. A head mounted display system as described in claim 1 or 37, comprising an interface chassis on which the face engagement portion is provided, and at least a side portion of the face engagement portion is configured to be extendable and contractible between a face contact surface of the face engagement portion and the interface chassis.

52. 52. A head mounted display system as claimed in claim 51, wherein the side portion includes a concertina section between the face contacting surface and the interface chassis.

53. 53. A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 1 to 52, wherein the positioning and stabilising structure includes a pair of lateral strap portions configured to extend along either side of a user's head in use.

54. 54. A head mounted display system as described in claim 53, wherein the lateral strap portions are configured to be connected to the interface structure.

55. 54. A head mounted display system as claimed in claim 53 when dependent on claim 1, wherein the lateral strap portions are configured to be connected to the skeletal frame.

56. 54. A head mounted display system as described in claim 53, wherein the lateral strap portions are configured to be connected proximally to the rear portion.

57. 54. A head mounted display system as described in claim 53, wherein the lateral strap portions are configured to be connected to the head mounted display unit, and the positioning and stabilizing structure includes a pair of secondary lateral strap portions configured to be connected between the lateral strap portions and the interface structure.

58. 58. A head mounted display system as described in claim 57 when dependent on claim 1, wherein the secondary lateral strap portions are configured to be connected to the skeletal frame.

59. 60. A head mounted display system as described in claim 58, wherein the length of the secondary lateral strap portion is adjustable separately from the length of the lateral strap portions.

60. 60. A head mounted display system as claimed in claim 58 or claim 59, wherein the elasticity of the secondary lateral strap portions differs from the elasticity of the lateral strap portions.

61. A head mounted display system as claimed in any one of claims 53 to 60, wherein each lateral strap portion includes a stiffening portion.

62. 62. A head mounted display system as described in claim 61, wherein the stiffening portions of the lateral strap portions are integrated with one or more of the interface structure and the skeletal frame.

63. 63. A head mounted display system as described in claim 61 or claim 62, wherein the stiffening section includes at least one non-linear section.

64. 64. A head mounted display system as described in claim 63, wherein at least one of the non-linear sections includes an arcuate section.

65. A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 61 to 64, wherein the positioning and stabilizing structure comprises a flexible and / or elastic material arranged around the rigidifying portion.

66. 66. A head mounted display system as described in claim 65, wherein the flexible and / or elastic material comprises at least one textile layer.

67. 67. A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 61 to 66, wherein at least one of the stiffening sections includes one or more cable positioning features.

68. 68. A head mounted display system as described in claim 67, wherein the one or more cable positioning features are provided on a radially outward facing surface of the stiffening portion.

69. A head mounted display system as described in any one of claims 37 to 47 and claims 48 to 52 dependent on any one of claims 37, comprising a biasing mechanism between the positioning and stabilizing structure and the frame, the biasing mechanism being configured to bias the frame to rotate upwardly to increase the contact pressure of the forehead portion of the face engaging portion against the cheek portion of the face engaging portion.

70. 1. A user interface assembly comprising: a face engaging portion configured to, in use, contact a user's face around the vicinity of the user's eyes, the face engaging portion including a user contacting portion configured to contact the user and a non-user contacting portion opposite the user contacting portion; an interface chassis having a higher rigidity than the face engagement portion and configured to support the face engagement portion in use, the interface chassis being connected to a non-user contact portion of the face engagement portion; the interface chassis is configured to extend around a user's eyes together with the face engagement portion in use, and includes a forehead portion, a pair of side portions, a pair of cheek portions, and a nose portion; the interface chassis includes at least one relatively rigid section and at least one relatively flexible section, allowing the interface chassis to flex to accommodate anthropometric variations in a user's face, the at least one relatively rigid section being stiffer than the at least one relatively flexible section; A user interface assembly, wherein at least one of the relatively rigid portions comprises a different material than at least one of the relatively flexible portions.

71. 71. A user interface assembly as described in claim 70, wherein at least one of the relatively rigid portions includes a nose portion and / or a pair of cheek portions of the interface chassis, and at least one of the relatively flexible portions includes a forehead portion and / or a side portion.

72. 72. A user interface assembly according to claim 71, wherein the nose portion of the interface chassis is stiffer than the forehead portion.

73. 73. A user interface assembly according to any one of claims 71 and 72, wherein a pair of cheeks of the interface chassis have increased stiffness compared to the side portions.

74. A user interface assembly according to any one of claims 70 to 73, wherein the interface chassis comprises a thermoplastic material.

75. 75. A user interface assembly as claimed in any one of claims 70 to 74, wherein at least one of the relatively rigid portions comprises a first thermoplastic material and at least one of the relatively flexible portions comprises 1) a second thermoplastic material that is less rigid than the first thermoplastic material, or 2) an elastomeric material that is less rigid than the first thermoplastic material.

76. 76. The user interface assembly of claim 75, wherein the first thermoplastic material is a polyamide.

77. 77. A user interface assembly according to any one of claims 75 and 76, wherein the second thermoplastic material is Hytrel®.

78. A head-mounted display system, comprising: A head-mounted display unit having a display; a positioning and stabilising structure constructed and arranged to hold the head mounted display unit in an operable position on a user's head in use; A user interface assembly according to any one of claims 70 to 77. A head mounted display system comprising:

79. 1. A head mounted display support assembly for supporting a head mounted display unit, comprising: an interface assembly including a face engaging portion configured in use to contact a user's face around the vicinity of the user's eyes, the face engaging portion including a user contacting portion configured to contact the user and a non-user contacting portion opposite the user contacting portion; a frame assembly including a front portion adapted to connect to the head mounted display unit and a rear portion connected to the interface assembly; Including, the frame assembly includes a support structure spanning the front and rear portions; The head mounted display support assembly, wherein the support structure is configured to flex relative to the rear portion and / or the front portion, such that in use the rear portion is movable relative to the front portion to accommodate anthropometric changes in a user's face.

80. 80. A head mounted display support assembly as recited in claim 79, wherein the rear portion of the frame assembly includes a forehead portion and a pair of side portions.

81. 81. A head mounted display support assembly as recited in claim 80, wherein the front portion of the frame assembly is stiffer than at least a forehead portion of the frame assembly.

82. A head mounted display support assembly as described in any one of claims 79 to 81, wherein the support structure includes at least one pillar disposed between the rear and front portions of the frame assembly.

83. 83. A head mounted display support assembly as claimed in claim 82, wherein the support column has a stiffness greater than that of a rear portion of the frame assembly.

84. A head mounted display support assembly as described in any one of claims 82 and 83, wherein at least one of the pillars includes a flexible portion and a rigidifying portion that imparts rigidity to the pillar, the rigidifying portion having a higher rigidity than the flexible portion.

85. A head mounted display support assembly as described in any one of claims 82 to 84, wherein at least one of the pillars has a first flexible connection to a rear portion and a second non-flexible connection to a front portion, the first flexible connection being relatively flexible compared to the second non-flexible connection.

86. A head mounted display support assembly as described in any one of claims 82 to 85, wherein at least one of the posts is positioned between the forehead and front portions of a frame assembly.

87. A head mounted display support assembly as described in any one of claims 79 to 86, wherein the interface assembly includes: 1) a face engagement portion configured to contact a user's face around the user's eyes in use; and 2) an interface chassis having a greater rigidity than the face engagement portion and configured to support the face engagement portion in use.

88. 88. A head mounted display support assembly as described in claim 87, wherein a rear portion of the frame assembly is connected to the interface chassis.

89. A head mounted display support assembly as described in any one of claims 79 to 88, wherein a rear portion of the frame assembly is connected to an interface assembly only at a plurality of discrete connection points.

90. A head mounted display support assembly as claimed in any one of claims 79 to 89, wherein the frame assembly comprises a thermoplastic material.

91. A head-mounted display system, comprising: A head-mounted display unit having a display; a positioning and stabilizing structure structured and arranged to hold the head mounted display unit in an operable position on the user's head in use; A head mounted display system comprising: a head mounted display support assembly according to any one of claims 79 to 90.

92. 1. A head mounted display support assembly for supporting a head mounted display unit, comprising: an interface assembly including: 1) a face engaging portion configured to contact a user's face around the vicinity of the user's eyes in use; and 2) an interface chassis having a greater rigidity compared to the face engaging portion and configured to support the face engaging portion in use; A frame assembly; Equipped with the face engaging portion includes a user contact portion configured to contact a user and a non-user contact portion opposite the user contact portion; the interface chassis is connected to a non-user contacting portion of the face engagement portion and includes a forehead portion, a pair of side portions, a pair of cheek portions, and a nose portion; the interface chassis is configured to extend around the eyes of a user together with the face engaging portion in use; the frame assembly includes a front portion adapted to connect to the head mounted display unit and a rear portion connected to the interface chassis; The front portion of the frame assembly has a higher rigidity than the rear portion of the frame assembly. A head mounted display support assembly.

93. 93. A head mounted display support assembly as described in claim 92, wherein the frame assembly includes a support structure spanning the front and rear.

94. 94. A head mounted display support assembly as described in claim 93, wherein the support structure is configured to flex relative to the rear and / or front, in use, such that the rear is movable relative to the front to accommodate anthropometric changes in the user's face.

95. A head mounted display support assembly as described in any one of claims 92 to 94, wherein the interface chassis includes at least one relatively rigid section and at least one relatively flexible section so that the interface chassis can bend to accommodate anthropometric changes in a user's face, and at least one of the relatively rigid sections has a greater rigidity than the at least one relatively flexible section.

96. A head mounted display support assembly as described in any one of claims 92 to 95, wherein at least one of the forehead portion, the pair of side portions, the pair of cheek portions, and the nose portion of the interface chassis has a higher rigidity than another one of the forehead portion, the pair of side portions, the pair of cheek portions, and the nose portion.

97. A head-mounted display system, comprising: A head-mounted display unit having a display; a positioning and stabilizing structure structured and arranged to hold the head mounted display unit in an operable position on the user's head in use; A head mounted display system comprising: a head mounted display support assembly according to any one of claims 92 to 96.

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