Facial interfaces for electronic devices

The facial interface with varying stiffness parts in head-mounted display devices addresses discomfort and alignment issues, enhancing user comfort and media quality by optimizing fit and alignment.

JP2026047313APending Publication Date: 2026-03-13APPLE INC
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-08-29
Publication Date
2026-03-13

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Current head-mounted display devices are heavy, lack consistent contact points on the user's head, leading to discomfort and pressure points, and the distance between the display and the user's face affects media quality and comfort.

Method used

A facial interface with a bumper and nosepiece that includes parts of varying stiffness, allowing for comfortable fitting across different facial shapes and sizes, with adjustable and removable components to optimize the distance and alignment of the display.

Benefits of technology

Improves user comfort and expands the potential user base by providing a comfortable and stable fit, optimizing display alignment, and minimizing the need for eye refocusing.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

This disclosure relates to a head-mounted display device. [Solution] A head-mounted display device may include a display portion having a frame and a bumper. The bumper may be configured to come into contact with the user's head when the head-mounted display device is worn. The bumper may include multiple sections made of different material properties, providing different characteristics and different user experiences, and maintaining a comfortable and effective distance between the lenses or display of the display device and the user's eyes.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] (Cross - Reference to Related Applications) This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 688,591, filed on August 29, 2024, with the title "FACIAL INTERFACE FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICE", the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to head - mounted display devices. More particularly, this disclosure relates to a facial interface for a head - mounted display device.

Background Art

[0003] Recent advancements in portable computing have led to an increase in the use of head - mounted devices. For extended use, comfort is an important factor in the user adoption of head - mounted devices. An important component affecting comfort is the facial interface that rests on the user's face and transmits the weight of the head - mounted device. Current head - mounted display devices are often heavy, lack contact points on the user's head, and lead to pressure points and discomfort for users with different facial features and head shapes. Further, the distance between the display located within the head - mounted display device and the user's face can affect the quality of the media presented to the user, the need for the user to focus and refocus their eyes on the display, the amount of airflow between the user's face and the head - mounted display device, as well as other comfort and optimization factors. Accordingly, what is needed in the art is a head - mounted display device that includes a facial interface for supporting the head - mounted display device on the user's head in a comfortable manner.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] In at least one example of this disclosure, the head-mounted display device may include a frame. In some examples, the head-mounted display device may also include a display coupled to the frame, a lens coupled to the frame adjacent to the display, and a facial interface extending from the frame. In some examples, the facial interface may include a bumper and a nosepiece, the bumper of which includes a first part and a second part, the first part being stiffer than the second part, and the lens being positioned between the nosepiece and the bumper. In some examples, the frame may define a first gap between the facial interface and the user's face when worn. In some examples, the facial interface may define an open space along the frame between the bumper and the nosepiece, the open space may allow ambient light to reach the lens. In some examples, the bumper may be removable. In some examples, the bumper may be adjustable relative to the frame. In some examples, the bumper may be a first bumper, and the head-mounted display device may further include a second bumper spaced apart from the first bumper and configured to align with the cheekbone when the head-mounted display device is worn. In some examples, the first part abuts against the second part. In some examples, the head-mounted display device defines a first gap between the first and second parts. In some examples, the bumper extends beyond the lens toward the user's face.

[0005] In at least one example of this disclosure, the head-mounted device may include a frame. In some examples, the head-mounted device may also include lenses coupled to the frame and a bumper coupled to the frame. In some examples, the bumper is positioned above the lenses when the head-mounted display device is worn by the user, and the bumper defines a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion, the first and second portions being stiffer than the third portion, and the third portion being positioned between the first and second portions. In some examples, the bumper defines a first gap between the frame on the first side of the bumper and the user's face, through which light enters the user's field of view when the head-mounted device is worn, and a second first gap between the frame on the second side of the bumper opposite the first side and the user's face, through which light enters the user's field of view when the head-mounted device is worn. In some examples, at least one of the first or second portion defines a first gap between the head-mounted device and the user's face when worn. In some examples, the third part overlaps at least partially with at least one of the first or second parts. In some examples, the first part is positioned between at least a portion of the third part and the frame. In some examples, the frame defines multiple regions configured to accommodate the bumper.

[0006] In at least one example of this disclosure, the display portion may include a frame. In some examples, the display portion may also include a facial interface which includes a lens fixed to the frame and a first projection adjacent to the lens and a second projection adjacent to the lens and separated from the first portion. In some examples, the lens is positioned between the first and second projections, and the first projection is stiffer than the second projection. In some examples, the display portion may include a third projection defined by the facial interface, the third projection being softer than at least one of the first or second projections. In some examples, the third projection is located adjacent to the first projection. In some examples, at least one of the first or second projections includes a non-Newtonian fluid bladder. In some examples, the display portion includes a second display fixed to the frame.

[0007] The disclosure will be easily understood by the following detailed description, along with the attached drawings in which similar reference numbers specify similar structural elements. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] An oblique view of an example of a head-mounted display device is shown.

[0009] [Figure 2] Another perspective view of an example of a head-mounted display device is shown.

[0010] [Figure 3A] An example of the display portion in one configuration is shown.

[0011] [Figure 3B] An example of the display portion in a different configuration is shown.

[0012] [Figure 3C] An example of the display portion in a different configuration is shown.

[0013] [Figure 3D] Here is another example of the display portion in a different configuration.

[0014] [Figure 4A] An example of a facial interface in an on-screen configuration is shown.

[0015] [Figure 4B] An example of a facial interface in a different configuration is shown.

[0016] [Figure 5] A side view of an example of a head-mounted display device is shown.

[0017] [Figure 6] Here is another example of the display portion in a different configuration. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0018] Herein, representative examples illustrated in the attached drawings are described in detail. It should be understood that the following description is not intended to limit these examples to one preferred embodiment. On the contrary, the following description is intended to include alternative forms, modifications, and equivalents that may be included in the spirit and scope of the examples described as defined by the attached claims.

[0019] The following disclosure relates to a display portion and a facial interface for a head-mounted display device. Current head-mounted display devices are heavy, lack consistent contact points on the user's head, and can lead to discomfort, pressure points, and discomfort for users with different facial features and head shapes. The contact points on the user's head or face can affect the operation and comfort of the system in use. Further, the distance between the display located within the head-mounted display device and the user's face can affect the quality of the media presented to the user, the need for the user to focus and refocus their eyes on the display, the amount of airflow between the user's face and the head-mounted display device, and other comfort and optimization factors. Thus, the devices and systems described herein include a facial interface and contact point features that are comfortable to fit a wide range of facial shapes and sizes while still being usable. The devices, systems, and methods of the present disclosure improve user comfort and expand the potential user base for head-mounted devices.

[0020] Various examples of head-mounted display devices described herein may include a display portion and one or more fixed arms coupled to the display portion. In some examples, the display portion may include a frame and various components coupled to the frame. For example, at least some head-mounted display devices described herein may include at least one display coupled to the frame. The display may be configured to produce a visual medium for user consumption. The display may be a screen, projection, or another means of displaying content. In some examples, the display portion may include a bumper and one or more lenses. The lenses may be coupled to the frame or bumper and can alter the properties of the media produced in the display so that they are visible to the user. In some examples, the lenses may map the visual medium displayed on the display to the user's eyes. In other examples, the lenses may be corrective lenses. The lenses described herein may be configured to provide a clear and desirable user experience for a variety of face shapes, eye conditions, and visual abilities.

[0021] The bumper may be attached to the frame and may extend from the frame toward the user's face when the head-mounted display device is worn. In some examples, the bumper may include two or more parts or sections. In some examples, one part or section of the bumper may be stiffer than another part or section. Sections of different stiffness may allow some parts of the bumper to conform to the shape of the user's face, while others may remain stiff or rigid when external force is applied. The softer part of the bumper may facilitate a comfortable user experience, while the stiffer part of the bumper may provide rigidity to the bumper to maintain the user's eye position toward the head-mounted display device for an improved level of comfort and user experience. In some examples, the stiffer part of the bumper may be configured to be positioned over the user's brow bone and / or cheekbone. The less stiffer part of the bumper may be configured to be positioned over the user's nose, over the user's forehead, or over another part of the user's face or head. In some examples, one or more parts of the bumper may be in contact with the user's face. In some examples, one or more parts of the bumper can define a gap between the display portion and the user's face. The various parts of the bumper may abut each other, define gaps between parts, overlap each other, or be configured differently from each other. In some examples, the head-mounted display devices described herein may include various electronic components such as a processor, battery, memory device, speaker, sensors, and camera. The head-mounted display devices described herein may also include wireless functionality.

[0022] These embodiments and other embodiments will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1-6. However, those skilled in the art will readily understand that the detailed description provided herein with reference to these figures is for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. Further, as used herein, a system, method, article, component, feature, or subfeature that includes at least one of a first selection range, a second selection range, or a third selection range can include one of each of the listed selection ranges (e.g., only one of the first selection ranges, only one of the second selection ranges, or only one of the third selection ranges), a plurality of the single listed selection ranges (e.g., two or more of the first selection ranges), two selection ranges simultaneously (e.g., one of the first selection ranges and one of the second selection ranges), or a combination thereof (e.g., two of the first selection ranges and one of the second selection ranges) as a system, method, article, component, feature, or subfeature that is to be understood.

[0023] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of the head-mounted display device 100. In some examples, the head-mounted display device 100 may be a head-mounted device configured to display media to a user. The head-mounted display device 100 may include a display portion 102, a frame 104, a facial interface 106, and one or more fixed arms 112a-b coupled to the frame 104. The head-mounted display device 100 may be mounted on the user's head and configured to display visual media to the user. In some examples, the visual media displayed by the head-mounted display device 100 may include video, live streams, websites, recordings, virtual reality settings, television, or other forms of visual media. In some examples, the fixed arms 112a-b may be configured to rest on the user's ears. The fixed arms 112a-b may be configured to support at least a portion of the weight of the head-mounted display device 100. The head-mounted display device 100 may also include a nosepiece 110. The nosepiece 110 may be configured to rest on the user's nose and at least partially support the head-mounted display device 100. The head-mounted display device 100 may be configured to provide a comfortable user experience by utilizing various polymers, ceramics, metals, or composite materials. In some examples, the materials used to construct the head-mounted display device 100 may include silicone, foam, fabric, aluminum, steel, plastic, or other materials.

[0024] In some examples, the head-mounted display device 100 can include a variety of electrical and electronic components. For example, the head-mounted display device 100 can include one or more processors, speakers, batteries, screens, projectors, motors, linear actuators, cameras, sensors, wires, and other components. Various electrical and electronic components can be located within various parts of the head-mounted display device 100. For example, at least one of the fixed arms 112a-b may include a battery and / or a speaker. The display portion 102 may include a processor, a camera, and a screen. Electronic components located within the fixed arms 112a-b may be electrically coupled to electronic components located within the display portion 102. The electrical and electronic components included in the head-mounted display device 100 can provide an immersive and desirable user experience.

[0025] In some examples, the head-mounted display device 100 may also include a bumper 108. The bumper 108 may be configured to extend toward and / or contact a portion of the user's head when the head-mounted display device 100 is in use. In some examples, the bumper 108 and the nosepiece 110 may form a facial interface 106. In some examples, the bumper 108 may be configured to contact the user's forehead. The bumper 108 may be configured to improve the user experience by improving comfort, improving the stability of the head-mounted display device 100, and / or supporting the head-mounted display device 100. In some examples, the bumper 108 may be a padded portion or a contoured portion. For example, the bumper 108 may be molded to the shape of the user's face, or deformed to fit the user's face when the head-mounted display device 100 is worn. Similarly, the nosepiece 110 may be a padded portion or a contoured portion. In some examples, at least the nosepiece 110 or the bumper 108 may be a combination of a padded portion and a contoured portion. In some examples, the bumper 108, nosepiece 110, or a combination thereof can define the distance between the display portion 102 and the user's face when the head-mounted display device 100 is worn.

[0026] In at least one example, the facial interface of device 100, which may include a bumper 108 and a nosepiece 110, may extend from its display portion 102 and / or frame 104 toward the user's head and face to ensure that certain other components of device 100 maintain an appropriate and comfortable distance from the user's face, for example, the user's eyes, during operation. For example, the display portion 102 may include one or more display screens and / or lenses, as shown in other figures and described in more detail below, which can be aligned with the user's eyes to display information to the user's eyes. In at least one example, the bumper 108 may extend toward the user's face to a greater extent than the lenses and / or displays of the display portion 102 extend toward the user's face. In this way, when device 100 is pressed or pushed toward the user's face during operation, the distance between the lenses and / or displays and the eyes may be optimized for use and comfort when the bumper 108 first makes contact with the user's forehead or other areas of the head and the face around the eyes. As will be described in more detail below, the bumper 108 may include multiple parts and sections formed of materials and shapes having different hardnesses. The less hard parts or sections of the bumper 108 may be configured to first come into contact with the user's head and face for comfort. The harder parts or sections of the bumper 108 may lie beneath the less hard parts and / or form a structure beneath the bumper 108 to prevent excessive deformation of the bumper 108 and undesirable translation of the display part 102, thereby improving the performance and comfort of the system.

[0027] The features, components, and / or parts shown in Figure 1, including their arrangement and configuration, may be included individually or in any combination in any other example of devices, features, components, and parts shown in other figures described herein. Similarly, the features, components, and / or parts shown and described with reference to other figures, including their arrangement and configuration, may be included individually or in any combination in the examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in Figure 1. Further examples of head-mounted display devices having a facial interface are given below with reference to Figure 2.

[0028] Figure 2 shows another example of a head-mounted display device 200. The head-mounted display device 200 may include various components configured to display a visual medium to the user, improve the comfort of the user experience, and improve the interface between the user's face and the head-mounted display device 200. For example, the head-mounted display device 200 may include a frame 204, a facial interface 206 extending from the frame 204, and fixed arms 212a-b coupled to the frame 204. The facial interface 206 may include a bumper 208 and a nosepiece 110. The nosepiece 210 and bumper 208 may be configured to extend toward and / or abut against the user's face when the head-mounted display device 200 is worn. The facial interface 206 and fixed arms 212a-b may each be configured to support at least a portion of the weight of the head-mounted display device 200.

[0029] The head-mounted display device 200 may also include a display 214 coupled to a frame 204 and a lens 216 coupled to the frame 204 adjacent to the display 214. In some examples, the head-mounted display device 200 may include multiple displays. In some examples, the head-mounted display device 200 may also include multiple lenses. The display 214 may be configured to present a visual medium to the user. For example, the display 214 may be a screen. In some examples, the display 214 may be an OLED screen, an LED screen, an LCD screen, or another type of screen. In other examples, the display 214 may be a surface onto which an image is projected. In some examples, light from the display 214 may pass through the lens 216 before being perceived by the user. The lens 216 may be configured to alter the properties of the light from the display 214. For example, the lens 216 may be configured to magnify or focus the media produced by the display 214. In other examples, the lens 216 may be configured to alter some portion of the media produced by the display 214. For example, the lens 216 can change the proportion of media generated by the display 214. In this way, the lens 216 and the display 214 can facilitate a desirable user experience by generating high-quality, attractive, and clear media for the user to perceive.

[0030] In some examples, the bumper 208 may be positioned above the lens 216 when the head-mounted display device 200 is worn by the user. The lens 216 may also be positioned between the nosepiece 210 and the bumper 208. The bumper 208 may be configured to contact the user's forehead or eyebrow area when the head-mounted display device 200 is worn. In some examples, the bumper 208 may include a first portion 218, a second portion 222, and a third portion 220. The first portion 218 and the second portion 222 may be stiffer than the third portion 220. Stiffness can be the opposite of softness. For example, stiffness can be determined by the toughness of the material, the shape of the bumper 108, its rigidity, elasticity, the amount of deformation given a particular force, the relative amount of force per unit area applied to achieve a known deflection or deformation, internal pressure measurement, or other metrics. In other examples, stiffness can be quantified by the resistance of the components to an applied force.

[0031] In this example, the first portion 218 and the second portion 222 may be configured to resist greater forces than the third portion 220, or to deform less in response to the same applied force. The first portion 218 and the second portion 222 can provide structural rigidity to the bumper 208. In some examples, the third portion 220 may be configured to be less rigid than the first portion 218 and the second portion 222, and to be more comfortable when in contact with the user's head. For example, the third portion 220 may be configured to conform to the user's face to provide a comfortable user experience. The third portion 220 may be positioned between the first portion 218 and the second portion 222. In some examples, the third portion 220 may be configured to contact the user's head at a location with greater curvature than where the first portion 218 and the second portion 222 contact the user's head. The third portion 220 can provide a comfortable user experience by conforming to an area of ​​the user's head with greater curvature. The first part 218 and the second part 222 can also control the distance between the frame 204 and the user's face by maintaining a rigid state and not deforming significantly in response to pressure from the user's face. By controlling the distance between the frame 204 and the user's face, the comfort of the device can be improved so that when the device 200 is worn, the lenses 216 and the display 214 maintain an appropriate distance from the user's eyes. Controlling the distance between the frame 204 and the face can also improve the visual characteristics of the head-mounted display device 200, stabilize the media generated on the display 214, and minimize the need for the user to refocus on the display 214.

[0032] The features, components, and / or parts shown in Figure 2, including their arrangement and configuration, may be included individually or in any combination in any other example of devices, features, components, and parts shown in other figures described herein. Similarly, the features, components, and / or parts shown and described with reference to other figures, including their arrangement and configuration, may be included individually or in any combination in the examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in Figure 2. Further examples of display portions including bumpers in several different configurations are given below with reference to Figures 3A to 3D.

[0033] Figures 3A to 3D show display portions 300 in different configurations. The illustrated display portion 300 may include a frame 304, a bumper 308, a nosepiece 310, and lenses 316a to 316b. In some examples, the lenses 316a to 316b may be coupled to the frame 304. In some examples, the display portion 300 may include a first display 314a and a second display 314b. Figure 3A shows a display portion 300 in one configuration. The bumper 308 shown in Figure 3A may include a first portion 318, a second portion 320, and a third portion 322. In some examples, the first portion 318 and the second portion 320 may be stiffer than the third portion 322. Both the first portion 318 and the second portion 320 may be in contact with the third portion 322. In some examples, the first portion 318 may be positioned adjacent to the third portion 322. As shown in Figure 3A, lenses 316a and 316b can be positioned between the nosepiece 310 and the bumper 308.

[0034] In some examples, the bumper 308 may be removable from the frame 304. In one example, the bumper 308 is removable as part of its normal function so that removing the bumper 308 from the frame 304 does not destroy, damage, or otherwise alter the function of the bumper 308. The bumper 308 may be intended to be removed. In one example, the bumper 308 may be removable via a mechanical mechanism. Other examples may include magnets, hooks and loops, or other mechanisms for removablely securing the bumper 308 to the frame 304. A removable bumper 308 can make the bumper 308 interchangeable. For example, a user can change from one bumper 308 to another to improve fit, position, size, or other characteristics. A removable bumper 308 can also allow the display unit 300 to be more easily packaged, fitted into a case, and transported. In some examples, the bumper 308 may be adjustable relative to the frame 304. For example, the bumper 308 may be translatable relative to the frame 304 in a first vertical direction and a second horizontal direction. The bumper 308 may also extend or retract from the frame 304. In some examples, the bumper 308 may be rotatable relative to the frame 304. The bumper 308 may also be tilted relative to the frame 304 to change the angle at which the bumper 308 contacts the frame 304. The bumper 308 may be fixed to the frame 304 via rails, joints, locking mechanisms, or other forms of adjustable fasteners. In some examples, the bumper 308 may be manually adjustable. The bumper 308 may be adjustable via dials, locking positions, screws, knobs, or other adjustment mechanisms. In some examples, the adjustment function of the bumper 308 may be motorized. In some examples, the adjustment of the bumper 308 may be controlled via buttons or through a user interface. In other examples, the bumper 308 may be automatically adjustable.The bumper 308 may be adjustable based on facial data such as a 3D model or profile data of the user's face, or the bumper 308 may be adjustable to fit the user's face based on a pre-set position.

[0035] Figure 3B shows another example of the display portion 300. In some examples, the bumper 308 may be a first bumper, and the display portion 300 may further include at least a second bumper 328. The second bumper 328 may be spaced apart from the first bumper 308 and may be generally aligned with the user's cheekbone when the display portion 300 is fitted. In some examples, the display portion 300 may include a third bumper 330 aligned with the cheekbone opposite the second bumper 328. The second bumper 328 and the third bumper 330 may be configured to support at least a portion of the weight of the display portion 300 against the user's face. Furthermore, in some examples, the second bumper 328 and the third bumper 330 may be configured to be stiffer than the third portion 322. In other examples, the second bumper 328 and the third bumper 330 may be configured to be softer than the first portion 318. In some examples, the bumper 308 may be a first projection, and the second bumper 328 may be a second projection. The bumpers 308 and 328 may be included in the facial interface. In some examples, the first projection may be positioned adjacent to the lens 316a, the second projection may be positioned adjacent to the lens 316a, and the lens 316a may be positioned between the first projection and the second projection.

[0036] Examples of bumpers as described herein, including bumpers 108, 208, 308, 328, 330 and other bumpers described herein, each bumper extends away from the frame or display portion 300 toward the user's face beyond the lenses 316a-b and displays 314a-b (for example, to a greater extent) to ensure an optimized distance between the user's eyes and the lenses 316a-b and / or displays 314a-b for comfort and performance.

[0037] Figure 3C shows another example of the display portion 300. The display portion 300 shown in Figure 3C may also include a bumper 308. The bumper 308 may include a first portion 318, a second portion 320, and a third portion 322. In some examples, the first portion 318 may be separated from the third portion 322 by a first gap 324a. Similarly, the second portion 320 may be separated from the third portion 322 by a second gap 324b. In some examples, the gaps 324a-b may allow the third portion 322 to expand or contract laterally in response to the force that conforms the third portion 322 to the user's head. Air may also flow through the gaps 324a-b, which may cool the user's face while the display portion is fitted. In some examples, the gaps may allow the first portion 318, the second portion 320, and the third portion 322 to be independently removed or adjusted. For example, the independent removal of the first part 318 may allow the user to replace the first part 318 with another part having a different hardness, curvature, size, or material. In some examples, the first part 318 may also be horizontally translated toward the third part 322 without adjustment of the third part 322. The independent adjustment of parts 318, 320, and 322 may allow the display part 300 to adapt to various facial structures, facial shapes, and head sizes for optimal comfort.

[0038] Figure 3D shows another example of the display portion 300. The display portion 300 shown in Figure 3D may be substantially similar to the display portion 300 shown in Figure 3A, with the addition of transition portions 326a and 326b positioned between the first portion 318 and the third portion 322, and between the second portion 320 and the third portion 322. The transition portions 326a and 326b can allow for a smoother transition from the harder first portion 318 to the softer third portion 322. In some examples, the transition portions 326a and 326b may be made of different materials from the first portion 318, the second portion 320, and the third portion 322. In other examples, the transition portions 326a and 326b may be formed by a blend of the materials of the first portion 318 and the third portion 322. In other examples, the transition portions 326a and 326b may be formed by a gradual change from one material to another, such as an overlapping portion. The transition section 326a-b blends the material properties of the bumper 308 to create a more comfortable user experience.

[0039] The features, components, and / or parts shown in Figures 3A to 3D, including their arrangement and configuration, may be included individually or in any combination in any other example of devices, features, components, and parts shown in other figures described herein. Similarly, the features, components, and / or parts shown and described with reference to other figures, including their arrangement and configuration, may be included individually or in any combination in the examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in Figures 3A to 3D.

[0040] Figures 4A and 4B show examples of display portion 400 with different configurations. In some examples, the display portion 400 may include a bumper 408 coupled to a frame 404. In some examples, the bumper 408 may include a first portion 418, a second portion 420, and a third portion 422. Figure 4A shows the display portion 400 in one configuration. In some examples, the first portion 418 and the second portion 420 may be configured to be stiffer than the third portion 422. As shown in Figure 4A, the third portion 422 may be configured to overlap with at least a portion of the first portion 418 and / or the second portion 420. In some examples, at least a portion of the third portion 422 may be configured to contact the user's face. The third portion 422, including a portion that may overlap with other portions of the bumper 408, may allow the stiffer portion of the bumper 408, or the less stiff portion of the bumper 408, to contact the user's head. In some examples, at least a portion of the third section 422 may extend from the frame 404. At least a portion of the first section 418 or the second section 420 may also be configured to extend from the frame 404. By overlapping at least a portion of the first section 418 and / or the second section 420, the third section 422 can improve the comfort and ergonomics of the display section 400. In some examples, the third section 422 may be configured to deform more than the first section 418 or the second section 420 in response to pressure applied to the bumper 408 by the user's head. In some examples, the bumper 408 may be detachably attached to the frame 404. For example, the bumper 408 may be attached to the frame 404 via clips, hook and loop systems, magnets, snaps, or other fastening methods. In the example shown in Figure 4A, at least a portion of the third section 422 may be positioned between the first section 418 and the second section 402. Furthermore, the first portion 418 and the second portion 420 may each be positioned between at least a portion of the third portion 422 and the frame 404.

[0041] Figure 4B shows another configuration of the display portion 400. In the configuration shown in Figure 4B, the third portion 422 can extend from the frame 404 in a direction toward the user's face, beyond at least the first portion 418 or the second portion 420, when the display portion 400 is mounted. In some examples, the third portion 422 can be configured to contact the user's head when in use, while the first portion 418 and the second portion 420 are configured to be separated from the user's head when in use. In this way, the third portion 422 can facilitate a comfortable user experience. In some examples, the first portion 418 and the second portion 420 may be configured to contact the user's head when the third portion 422 is compressed. As described herein, a bumper 408 including a harder portion and a less hard portion can enhance user comfort when the display portion 400 is mounted.

[0042] The features, components, and / or parts shown in Figures 4A to 4B, including their arrangement and configuration, may be included individually or in any combination in any other example of devices, features, components, and parts shown in other figures described herein. Similarly, the features, components, and / or parts shown and described with reference to other figures, including their arrangement and configuration, may be included individually or in any combination in the examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in Figures 4A to 4B. Further examples of head-mounted display devices, including how different components relate to the user's head and user experience, are given below with reference to Figure 5.

[0043] Figure 5 shows another example of a head-mounted display device 500. The head-mounted display device 500 can be fixed to the user's head 528 as shown in Figure 5. In some examples, the head-mounted display device 500 may include a display portion 502, a bumper 508, a lens 516 positioned within the display portion 502, and a fixing arm 512. In some examples, the fixing arm 512 and the bumper 508 may each be configured to support a portion of the weight of the head-mounted display device 500. The bumper 508 may be coupled to the display portion 502 and may extend from the display portion 502. In some examples, the bumper 508 may extend beyond the lens 516 toward the user's face. Furthermore, the bumper 508 may be in contact with at least a portion of the user's face on the head 528. The bumper 508 may be made of a material that causes friction between the portion of the user's head 528 and the bumper 508. For example, the bumper 508 may be composed of silicone, foam, polymer, composite, or other materials, or a combination thereof. In some examples, the bumper 508 may also be made from a non-Newtonian fluid bladder so as to provide a soft and comfortable user experience under normal use, and then harden in response to applied force. Friction between the bumper 508 and the user's head 528 can generate a force that supports the head-mounted display device 500. In some examples, the fixing arms 512 may also be configured to support a portion of the weight of the head-mounted display device 500 by resting on the user's ears. In some examples, the bumper 508 can improve comfort by reducing friction of the weight of the head-mounted display device 500 supported by the user's ears. The weight distribution provided by friction between the bumper 508 and the user's head 528 can contribute to user comfort and experience.

[0044] In some examples, a portion of the bumper 508 may extend from the display portion 502, defining a gap 532 between the display portion 502 and the user's head 528. In some examples, the gap 532 may be an open space between the bumper and the nosepiece. In some examples, the display portion 502 may define a first gap 532 on the first side of the user's head and a second gap 532 on the second side of the user's head. The gap 532 may allow ambient light to reach components of the display portion 502 or parts of the user's head 528, enabling an unobstructed peripheral vision experience. For example, the gap 532 may allow ambient light to enter the user's field of view. In other examples, the bumper 508 may be configured to block at least a portion of the ambient light and shield at least the user's eyes, or any display or lens coupled to the display portion 502, from a light source above the user's head 528.

[0045] For example, a bumper 508 coupled to the display portion 502 above the user's eyes can block light coming from above. A bumper 508 coupled to the display portion 502 around the user's eyes can block ambient light coming from other directions. In some examples, the bumper 508 can be configured to define a gap 532 that can optimize the light emanating from or through the display portion 502. For example, the gap 532 can be configured to affect the media displayed to the user from the display portion 502 and thus affect the user experience. In other examples, the gap 532 may be configured to allow airflow across at least a portion of the user's head 528 that would otherwise be covered by the display portion 502.

[0046] In some examples, a portion of the bumper 508 may extend from the display portion 502 so that the bumper 508 does not come into contact with the user's head 528. In such examples, the bumper 508 can still provide the functions taught above. The gap 532 may be defined by other features of the head-mounted display device 500, such as a nosepiece or a fixing arm 512. The gap 532 defined by other features of the head-mounted display device 500 can provide substantially the same benefits as the gap 532 described above. In other examples, the bumper 508 may be configured as a light seal. The bumper 508 may be configured to block light from entering at least a portion of the user's field of view when the head-mounted display device 500 is worn. In such examples, preventing light from entering the user's field of view can improve the visual experience provided by the head-mounted display device 500.

[0047] In some examples, the fixed arms 512 may be configured to extend around at least a portion of the user's head 528. The fixed arms 512 may be further configured to make strategic contact with at least a portion of the user's head 528. For example, the fixed arms 512 may be configured to rest on the ears of the user's head 528. In other examples, one or more fixed arms 512 may be configured to attach to another head-mounted device or article, such as a hat or cap. In some examples, one or more fixed arms 512 may be configured to extend to the rear of the user's head 528. In some examples, the fixed arms 512 may wrap around the user's head 528. In other examples, the fixed arms 512 may wrap around a portion of the user's head 528. These examples may be configured to support the weight of the head-mounted display device 500 and can provide a comfortable user experience.

[0048] The fixed arm 512 may also be configured to hold the head-mounted display device 500 on the user's face. The examples included above may be further configured to optimally hold the head-mounted display device 500 relative to the user's head 528. For example, the fixed arm 512 may include a retractable feature that can pull the head-mounted display device 500 toward the user's head 528. For example, the retractable feature may include a spring or a retractable band. In other examples, a projecting and retractable feature may be used. For example, an expandable band, a ratchet mechanism, a click adjustment, or an adjustable slider may be used. The fixed arm 512 may be further configured to include one or more adjustment mechanisms that modify the fixed arm 512. Furthermore, the adjustment mechanisms included in the fixed arm 512 may be configured to optimize the positioning of the head-mounted display device 500 and take into account variations in the user's head 528. According to at least these examples, the fixed arm 512 may be configured to optimally hold the head-mounted display device 500 relative to the user's head 528 despite variations in head shape size between different users.

[0049] The features, components, and / or parts shown in Figure 5, including their arrangement and configuration, may be included individually or in any combination in any other example of devices, features, components, and parts shown in other figures described herein. Similarly, the features, components, and / or parts shown and described with reference to other figures, including their arrangement and configuration, may be included individually or in any combination in the examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in Figure 5. Further examples of display portions having mounting points are given below with reference to Figure 6.

[0050] Figure 6 shows another example of the display portion 600. The display portion 600 may include a first lens 616a and a second lens 616b. In some examples, at least one of the first lens 616a or the second lens 616b may be removable. In some examples, at least one of the first lens 616a or the second lens 616b may be a corrective lens.

[0051] The display portion 600 may further include one or more mounting points 630 or areas for receiving, for example, detachably securing one or more bumpers to the display portion 600. Various mounting types, such as magnetic, snap-on, adhesive, screw, hook and loop, or other mounting mechanisms, can be used for the mounting points 630. In some examples, the mounting points 630 may be distributed along the perimeter of the display portion 600. For example, the mounting points 630 may be continuously distributed along the perimeter of the display portion 600. In other examples, the mounting points 630 may be discretely distributed around the display portion 600 such that gaps exist between consecutive mounting points 630. In some examples, the mounting points 630 are located in locations other than around the perimeter of the display portion 600. The mounting points 630 may be distributed on the display portion 600 for optimal mounting of the components of the display portion 600. For example, the mounting points 630 can connect bumpers to the display portion 600 in optimal or desired positions. The variability of the bumper placement can provide support for the display section 600 and comfort to the user.

[0052] The features, components, and / or parts shown in Figure 6, including their arrangement and configuration, may be included individually or in any combination in any other example of devices, features, components, and parts shown in other figures described herein. Similarly, the features, components, and / or parts shown and described with reference to other figures, including their arrangement and configuration, may be included individually or in any combination in the examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in Figure 6.

[0053] To the extent applicable to current technology, the delivery of invited content or any other content that may be of interest to a user can be improved by collecting and using data available from various sources. This disclosure suggests that in some cases, such collected data may include personal information data that uniquely identifies a particular person, or personal information data that can be used to contact or locate a particular person. Such personal information data may include demographic data, location-based data, telephone numbers, email addresses, X(registered trademark) (formerly TWITTER(registered trademark)) ID, addresses, data or records relating to a user's health or fitness level (e.g., vital signs measurements, medication information, exercise information), date of birth, or any other identifying or personal information.

[0054] This disclosure acknowledges that such use of personal data in the technology may be in the user's best interest. For example, personal data may be used to deliver more interesting and targeted content to the user. Thus, such use of personal data gives the user control over the content delivered. Furthermore, other uses of personal data that may benefit the user are also conceivable in this disclosure. For example, health and fitness data may be used to provide insights into the user's overall wellness, or as positive feedback to individuals using the technology to pursue wellness goals.

[0055] This disclosure implies that entities involved in the collection, analysis, disclosure, transmission, storage, or other use of such personal data should adhere to a robust privacy policy and / or privacy practices. Specifically, such entities should implement and consistently use a privacy policy and practices that are generally recognized as meeting or exceeding industry or government requirements for the strict confidentiality of personal data. Such policies should be readily accessible to users and should be updated as data collection and / or use changes. Personal data from users should be collected for the lawful and legitimate use of the entity and should not be shared or sold for any other purpose. Furthermore, such collection / sharing should be carried out only after informing and obtaining the user's consent. In addition, such entities should consider taking all necessary steps to protect and secure access to such personal data and to ensure that others with access to the personal data faithfully adhere to those privacy policies and procedures. Furthermore, such entities may undergo third-party evaluations to demonstrate their compliance with widely accepted privacy policies and practices. Furthermore, policies and practices should be adapted to the specific types of personal data collected and / or accessed, and should comply with applicable laws and standards, including jurisdiction-specific considerations. For example, in the United States, the collection or access to certain health data may be subject to federal and / or state laws, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). On the other hand, health data in other countries may be subject to other regulations and policies and should be addressed accordingly. Therefore, different privacy practices should be maintained in each country with respect to different types of personal data.

[0056] Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Disclosure also envisions embodiments that allow users to selectively prevent the use of or access to personal data. Specifically, the Disclosure envisions that hardware and / or software elements may be provided to prevent or prevent access to such personal data. For example, in the case of an advertising service, the technology could be configured to allow users to choose to “opt in” or “opt out” of participating in the collection of personal data during or at any time thereafter when registering for the service. In another example, a user could choose not to provide mood-related data for a targeted content delivery service. In yet another example, a user could choose to limit the period for which mood-related data is retained or to prohibit the entire deployment of a baseline mood profile. In addition to providing “opt-in” and “opt-out” options, the Disclosure envisions providing notices regarding access to or use of personal data. For example, a user could be notified when downloading an app that will access their personal data, and then again immediately before the app accesses their personal data.

[0057] Furthermore, the intent of this disclosure is that personal data should be managed and processed in a manner that minimizes the risk of unintentional or unauthorized access or use. Risks can be minimized by limiting data collection and deleting data when it is no longer needed. In addition, where applicable in certain health-related applications, data anonymization can be used to protect user privacy. Anonymization may be facilitated, where appropriate, by removing certain identifiers (e.g., date of birth), controlling the amount or specificity of data stored (e.g., collecting location data at the city level rather than the address level), controlling how data is stored (e.g., aggregating data across all users), and / or by other means.

[0058] Therefore, while this disclosure broadly covers the use of personal data to implement one or more of the disclosed embodiments, it is also conceivable that these embodiments could be implemented without requiring access to such personal data. In other words, the various embodiments of the technology would not be rendered inoperable by the absence of all or part of such personal data. For example, content could be selectively delivered to a user by inferring preferences based on only a minimal amount of non-personal data or personal information, such as content requested by the user's associated device, other non-personal data available in the content delivery service, or publicly available information.

[0059] In the preceding description, certain technical terms have been used for illustrative purposes to provide a complete understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details are not necessary to practice the described embodiments. Therefore, the preceding descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for illustrative and explanatory purposes only. These descriptions are not intended to exhaust all embodiments or to limit embodiments to the exact forms disclosed. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings.

Claims

1. A head-mounted display device, Frame and, A display coupled to the frame, A lens adjacent to the display and coupled to the frame, A facial interface extending from the frame, The aforementioned facial interface includes a bumper and a nosepiece, The bumper includes a first part and a second part, The first part is harder than the second part. The lens is positioned between the nosepiece and the bumper in a head-mounted display device.

2. The head-mounted display device according to claim 1, wherein the frame defines a gap between the facial interface and the user's face when worn.

3. The head-mounted display device according to claim 1, wherein the facial interface defines an open space along the frame between the bumper and the nosepiece, and the open space allows ambient light to reach the lens.

4. The head-mounted display device according to claim 1, wherein the bumper is configured to be intentionally removable.

5. The head-mounted display device according to claim 1, wherein the bumper is adjustable relative to the frame.

6. The bumper is a first bumper, The head-mounted display device according to claim 1, further comprising a second bumper spaced apart from the first bumper and configured to align with the cheekbone when the head-mounted display device is worn.

7. The head-mounted display device according to claim 1, wherein the first portion abuts against the second portion.

8. The head-mounted display device according to claim 1, further comprising a gap defined between the first portion and the second portion.

9. The head-mounted display device according to claim 1, wherein the bumper extends beyond the lens so as to separate from the frame.

10. It is a head-mounted device, Frame and, A lens attached to the aforementioned frame, The frame comprises the bumper coupled to the frame, The bumper is configured to be positioned above the lens when the head-mounted device is worn by the user. The bumper defines a first part, a second part, and a third part, The third portion is softer than the first and second portions. The third part is a head-mounted device positioned between the first and second parts.

11. The aforementioned bumper, A first gap between the frame and the user's face on the first side of the bumper, wherein when the head-mounted device is worn, light passes through the first gap and enters the user's field of view; The head-mounted device according to claim 10, wherein the second side of the bumper opposite to the first side defines a second gap between the frame and the face, through which light enters the user's field of view when the head-mounted device is worn.

12. The head-mounted device according to claim 10, wherein at least one of the first or second portion defines a gap between the head-mounted device and the user when worn.

13. The head-mounted device according to claim 10, wherein the third portion overlaps at least partially with at least one of the first portion or the second portion.

14. The head-mounted device according to claim 10, wherein the first portion is positioned between at least a portion of the third portion and the frame.

15. The head-mounted device according to claim 10, wherein the frame defines a first region configured to receive the bumper and a second region configured to receive the bumper.

16. A display portion for a head-mounted display device, Frame and, A lens fixed to the aforementioned frame, A facial interface comprising a first projection adjacent to the lens and a second projection adjacent to the lens and separated from the first projection, The lens is positioned between the first projection and the second projection. The first projection is a display portion that has higher rigidity than the second projection.

17. The display portion according to claim 16, further comprising a third projection defined by the facial interface, wherein the third projection is softer than at least one of the first projection or the second projection.

18. The display portion according to claim 17, wherein the third projection is located adjacent to the first projection.

19. The head-mounted display device according to claim 16, wherein at least one of the first or second projections comprises a non-Newtonian fluid bladder.

20. The display portion according to claim 16, further comprising a second display fixed to the frame.