Headband with mountable electronics

Abstract

A headband assembly including a support having a section, a first plate, and a second plate. The first plate is connected to a first end of the section and the second plate is connected to a second end of the section. The section may comprise two hole that allow a wire to be guided therethrough. Each of the first plate and second plate comprises two spaced apart slots or holes which engage one or more straps of a headband to connect the support to the headband. During use, the support helps maintain the headband in an at least partially expanded state and provides a handle for transporting the headband assembly.

Description

HEADBAND WITH MOUNTABLE ELECTRONICSCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit under Articles 4 and 8 of the Stockholm Act of the Paris Convention for the protection of Industrial Property of U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 374,126, filed on August 31, 2022, which application is incorporated by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to headbands, and more particularly, to headbands for securing electronic devices to a user's head.BACKGROUND

[0003] Head-Mounted Displays (HMDs), which can take the monocular form of a suspended eyepiece, can include an image source and, in some examples, an image light guide for presenting virtual images to a wearer’s eyes. The image light guides can be arranged for conveying the virtual images from an offset position of the image source to a position aligned with the wearer’s eye. For many applications, there is particular value in forming a virtual image that can be visually superimposed over the real-world image that lies in the field of view of the HMD user.

[0004] HMDs require a mounting device for mounting the display and various other electronics, for example a battery', to the user's head. However, current systems for mounting HMDs fail to suitably secure the electronics to the user’s head in a comfortable manner for extended periods of use.SUMMARY

[0005] The present disclosure is directed to one or more exemplary' embodiments of a headband assembly including a support having a tubular section, a first plate, and a second plate. The first plate is connected to a first end of the tubular section and the second plate is connected to a second end of the tubular section. The tubular section may include two holes that allow a wire or cable to be guided therethrough. Each of the first plate and second plate in turn include two spaced apart slots or holes which engage one or more straps of a headband to connect the support to the headband. During use. the support helps maintain the headband in an at least partially expanded state when the headband assembly is not being worn by the user and operates as a handle for transporting the headband assembly.

[0006] The present disclosure is directed to one or more exemplary' embodiments of a headband assembly.

[0007] In an exemplary embodiment, the headband assembly includes a support having a section including a first inward facing surface, a first outward facing surface, a first top, a first bottom, a first end, and a second end. The headband assembly further includes a first plate connected to thefirst end, the first plate including a first through-hole and a second through-hole spaced apart from the first through-hole, and a second plate connected to the second end, the second plate including a third through-hole and a fourth through-hole spaced apart from the third through-hole.

[0008] In an exemplary embodiment, the section is curvilinear. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one of the first plate and the second plate is curvilinear. In an exemplary embodiment, an interior space is formed in the section by the first inward facing surface, the first outward facing surface, the first top and the first end. In an exemplary' embodiment, the section further includes a first hole extending radially through the first outward facing surface to the interior space. In an exemplary embodiment, the headband assembly further includes a wire or cable extending through the first hole and at least partially in the interior space.

[0009] In an exemplary' embodiment, the headband assembly further includes a grommet arranged in the first hole, the grommet forming a second hole. In an exemplary embodiment, the second hole is arranged at an acute angle relative to a normal of the outward facing surface. In an exemplary embodiment, the grommet includes a first flap extending at least partially over the second hole in a first direction and a second flap extending at least partially over the second hole in a second direction, the first flap and the second flap forming a slit therebetween. In an exemplary embodiment, the support further includes a second hole extending radially through the first outward facing surface to the interior space, the second hole being circumferentially spaced apart from the first hole.

[0010] In an exemplary embodiment, the support includes a first height, the first plate includes a second height, the second plate includes a third height, and the first height is less than the second height and the third height. In an exemplary’ embodiment, the support includes a first thickness, the first plate includes a second thickness, the second plate includes a third thickness, and the first thickness is greater than the second thickness and the third thickness.

[0011] In an exemplary' embodiment, the headband assembly further includes a headband connected to the support, wherein the headband is engaged with the first through-hole, the second through-hole, the third through-hole, and the fourth through-hole. In an exemplary embodiment, the headband includes a second outward facing surface, and first plate and the second plate are operatively arranged to engage the second outward facing surface. In an exemplary' embodiment, a radial space is formed between the headband and the first inward facing surface when in a worn state.

[0012] In an exemplary embodiment, the headband includes a first strap, including a first end including a first passageway, a second end including a second passageway, a first opening arranged on, in, along, or proximate to the first end, and a second opening arranged on, in, along, or proximate to the second end, a second strap connected to the first strap and engaged with thefirst through-hole and the second through-hole of the first plate, and a third strap connected to the first strap and engaged with the third through-hole and the fourth through-hole of the second plate, wherein the third strap is operatively arranged to selectively connect to the second strap. In an exemplary embodiment, the headband assembly further includes a first clip arranged on the headband, wherein the first plate is arranged radially between the headband and the first clip and the first clip is operatively arranged to slidingly or pivotably secure an electronic device to the headband.

[0013] The present disclosure is directed to one or more exemplary embodiments of a headband assembly for mounting one or more electronic devices.

[0014] In an exemplary embodiment, the headband assembly includes a headband, having a first strap. The first strap includes a first end having a first passageway, a second end having a second passageway, a first opening arranged on, in, along, or proximate to the first end, and a second opening arranged on, in, along, or proximate to the second end. The headband also includes a second strap connected to the first strap, the second strap arranged at least partially through the first passageway and the first opening, and a third strap connected to the first strap, the third strap arranged at least partially through the second passageway and the second opening, wherein the third strap is operatively arranged to selectively connect to the second strap, and a support, including a tubular section having a first inward facing surface, a first outward facing surface, a first top, a first bottom, a first end, and a second end, a first plate connected to the first end, the first plate including a first through-hole and a second through-hole spaced apart from the first through-hole, the second strap engaged with the first through-hole and the second through-hole, and a second plate connected to the second end, the second plate including a third through-hole and a fourth through-hole spaced apart from the third through-hole, the third strap engaged with the third through-hole and the fourth through-hole.

[0015] In an exemplary embodiment, the tubular section further includes a first hole extending radially inward through the first outward facing surface, and a second hole extending radially inward through the first outward facing surface, the second hole being spaced apart from the first hole. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one of the tubular section, the first plate, and the second plate is curvilinear.

[0016] The present disclosure is directed to one or more exemplary embodiments of a headband.

[0017] In an exemplary embodiment, the headband includes a first strap, including a first end having a first passageway, a second end having a second passageway, a first opening arranged on, in, along, or proximate to the first end, and a second opening arranged on, in, along, or proximate to the second end, a second strap connected to the first strap, the second strap arranged at least partially through the first passageway and the first opening, and a third strap connected to the firststrap, the third strap arranged at least partially through the second passageway and the second opening, wherein the third strap is operatively arranged to selectively connect to the second strap.

[0018] In an exemplary' embodiment, the first strap further includes a first temple portion, a second temple portion, and a forehead portion arranged between the first temple portion and the second temple portion, wherein the first opening is arranged on. in, along, or proximate to the first temple portion. In an exemplary embodiment, the first passageway and the second passageway are connected forming a single passageway. In an exemplary embodiment, the forehead portion includes a first height, the first temple portion includes a second height, and the first height is less than the second height. In an exemplary embodiment, the second strap includes a third end fixedly secured to the first strap, and a fourth end. In an exemplary embodiment, the third end is arranged in the first passageway. In an exemplary' embodiment, the fourth end is connected to a connector.

[0019] In an exemplary' embodiment, a portion of the second strap engaged with the first opening forms a first loop. In an exemplary embodiment, the first loop is movable between a loosened state and a tightened state. In an exemplars' embodiment, a portion of the third strap engaged with the second opening forms a second loop. In an exemplary embodiment, the second strap includes an elastic portion, and anon-elastic portion. In an exemplary' embodiment, the non-elastic portion is engaged with the first opening. In an exemplary embodiment, the third strap includes a hook fastener section, and a loop fastener section. In an exemplary embodiment, the headband further includes at least one clip arranged on at least one of the second strap and the third strap, the at least one clip operatively arranged to slidingly or pivotably secure an electronic device to the headband.

[0020] The present disclosure is directed to one or more exemplary’ embodiments of a headband for mounting one or more electronic devices.

[0021] In an exemplary embodiment, the headband includes a first strap, having a first end including a first passageway, a second end including a second passageway, a first opening arranged on, in, along, or proximate to the first end, and a second opening arranged on. in, along, or proximate to the second end. a second strap including a third end and a fourth end, the third end fixedly secured to the first strap, the second strap arranged at least partially through the first passageway and the first opening to form a first loop, and a third strap including a fifth end and a sixth end, the fifth end fixedly secured to the first strap, the third strap arranged at least partially through the second passageway and the second opening to form a second loop, wherein the third strap is operatively arranged to be adjustably connected to the second strap to form a secured state of the headband.

[0022] In an exemplary' embodiment, the first strap further includes a first temple portion, a second temple portion, and a forehead portion arranged between the first temple portion and the secondtemple portion, wherein the first opening is arranged on, in, along, or proximate to the first temple portion and the second opening is arranged on, in, along, or proximate to the second temple portion. In an exemplary embodiment, the second strap is slidingly engaged with the first passageway to move the first loop between a first loosened state and a first tightened state. In an exemplary embodiment, the third strap is slidingly engaged with the second passageway to move the second loop between a second loosened state and a second tightened state. In an exemplary embodiment, the second strap includes a non-elastic portion arranged proximate the third end, and an elastic portion arranged proximate the fourth end. In an exemplary embodiment, the elastic portion extends out of the first passageway past the first end.

[0023] These and other aspects, objects, features, and advantages of the present disclosure will be more clearly understood and appreciated from the following detailed description of the embodiments and appended claims, and by reference to the accompanying drawing figures.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES

[0024] The accompanying drawings are incorporated herein as part of the specification. The drawings described herein illustrate embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter and are illustrative of selected principles and teachings of the present disclosure. However, the drawings do not illustrate all possible implementations of the presently disclosed subject matter and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way.

[0025] FIG. 1 is a top rear perspective view of a headband assembly, according to an exemplary embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0026] FIG. 2 is top front perspective partially-exploded view of the headband assembly shown in FIG. 1.

[0027] FIG. 3 A is a top front perspective view of the headband shown in FIG. 1. in a secured state.

[0028] FIG. 3B is a bottom rear perspective view of the headband show n in FIG. 3A.

[0029] FIG. 3C is a top plan view of the headband show n in FIG. 3A.

[0030] FIG. 4A is a front elevational view of the headband shown in FIG. 1 , in an unsecured state.

[0031] FIG. 4B is a rear elevational view of the headband shown in FIG. 4A.

[0032] FIG. 4C is a front elevational view of a portion of the headband shown in FIG. 4 A.

[0033] FIG. 4D is a rear elevational view of another portion of the headband shown in FIG. 4A.

[0034] FIG. 4E is a rear elevational view of still another portion of the headband shown in FIG. 4A.

[0035] FIG. 5 is a top front perspective view of a headband, in an unsecured state, according to an exemplary embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0036] FIG. 6 is a top front perspective view7of the headband shown in FIG. 5, in a partial disassembled state.

[0037] FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of the headband show n in FIG. 5, showing a first loop in a loosened state.

[0038] FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of the headband shown in FIG. 5, showing a second loop in a loosened state.

[0039] FIG. 9A is a left side elevational view of the headband shown in FIG. 1. in a secured state.

[0040] FIG. 9B is a right side elevational view of the headband shown in FIG. 1, in a secured state.

[0041] FIG. 10 is a front elevational view of the headband show n in FIG. 1.

[0042] FIG. 11 is a front elevational view of a portion of a headband according to an exemplary’ embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0043] FIG. 12 is a front elevational view' of a portion of a headband according to an exemplary' embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0044] FIG. 13 is a front elevational view of a portion of a headband according to an exemplary’ embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0045] FIG. 14 is a top rear perspective view of the support showTi in FIG. 1.

[0046] FIG. 15 is a rear elevational view' of the support shown in FIG. 14.

[0047] FIG. 16 is a top plan view of the support shown in FIG. 14.

[0048] FIG. 17 is a partial cross-sectional view of the support taken generally along line 17-17 in FIG. 14.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0049] It is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative orientations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific assemblies and systems illustrated in the attached drawings and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined herein. Hence, specific dimensions, directions, or other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed are not to be considered as limiting, unless expressly stated otherwise. Also, although they may not be. like elements in various embodiments described herein may be commonly referred to with like reference numerals within this section of the application.

[0050] Where used herein, the terms “first,” “second,” and so on, do not necessarily denote any ordinal, sequential, or priority' relation, but are simply used to more clearly distinguish one element or set of elements from another, unless specified otherwise.

[0051] Where used herein, the terms “viewer,” “operator,” “observer,” “wearer,” and “user” are considered equivalents and refer to the person or machine who wears and / or views images using a head mounted device.

[0052] Where used herein, the term “set’’ refers to a non-empty set, as the concept of a collection of elements or members of a set is widely understood in elementary mathematics. The term “subset,” unless otherwise explicitly stated, is used herein to refer to a non-empty7proper subset, that is, to a subset of the larger set, having one or more members. For a set S, a subset may include the complete set S. A “proper subset” of set S. however, is strictly contained in set S and excludes at least one member of set S.

[0053] Where used herein, the term “about” when applied to a value is intended to mean within the tolerance range of the equipment used to produce the value, or, in some examples, is intended to mean plus or minus 10%, or plus or minus 5%, or plus or minus 1%, unless otherwise expressly specified.

[0054] Where used herein, the term “substantially” is intended to mean within the tolerance range of the equipment used to produce the value, or, in some examples, is intended to mean plus or minus 10%, or plus or minus 5%, or plus or minus 1%, unless otherwise expressly specified.

[0055] Where used herein, the term “exemplary” is intended to mean “an example of.” “serving as an example,” or “illustrative,” and does not denote any preference or requirement with respect to a disclosed aspect or embodiment.

[0056] Adverting now to the figures, FIG. 1 is a top rear perspective view of headband assembly 8 according to an exemplary embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter. FIG. 2 is top front perspective, partially-exploded, view of headband assembly 8. Headband assembly 8 generally includes headband 10 and support 110. Headband assembly 8 is arranged to be worn by user 2, for example on or around at least a portion of the user’s head. Headband assembly 8 may support display 90, battery 92, cable or wire 94, or other electronics components. As will be described in greater detail below, headband 10 is arranged to engage the head of user 2. Clip 80 and / or clip 82 is connected to headband 10. Support 110 is connected to headband 10. In particular, support 110 is arranged at least partially radially between headband 10 and clip 80 and / or clip 82.

[0057] FIG. 3 A is a top front perspective view of headband 10 in a secured state. FIG. 3B is a bottom rear perspective view of headband 10 in the secured state. FIG. 3C is a top plan view of headband 10 in the secured state. FIG. 4 A is a front elevational view7of headband 10 in an unsecured state. FIG. 4B is a rear elevational view of headband 10 in the unsecured state. FIG. 4C is a front elevational view- of a portion of headband 10, namely, strap 20. FIG. 4D is a rear elevational view of another portion of headband 10, namely, strap 40. FIG. 4E is a rear elevational view of still another portion of headband 10, namely, strap 60. Thus, as shown in at least FIGS. 4A-4E, headband 10 generally includes strap 20, strap 40, and strap 60. In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in at least FIG. 4D, headband 10 further includes connector or ring or loop 50.

[0058] Strap 20 includes outer surface 22, inner surface 24, top 26, bottom 28, first end 30, and second end 32. Strap 20 is operatively arranged to engage at least a portion of a user’s head, namely, the user’s forehead and temples. Specifically, inner surface 24 is arranged against the user’s head. In an exemplary embodiment, outer surface 22, inner surface 24, top 26. and bottom 28 form a passageway, therebetween creating one or more tubular members within which strap 40 and / or 60 are arranged (see FIGS. 4A-4B). For example, strap 20 may include a first layer forming outer surface 22 and a second layer forming inner surface 24, wherein the tw o pieces of material are connected along top 26 and bottom 28 (e.g., via stitching, adhesive, etc.). In an exemplary' embodiment, a third layer wraps around and / or connects the first and second layers at top 26 and a fourth layer wraps around and / or connects the first and second layers at bottom 28 (e.g., via stitching, adhesive, etc.). For example, the third layer and / or the fourth layer may form a bound seam BSd, BSe, or BSh, which is a binding over the edge of two plies, namely, the first layer and the second layer. In an exemplary embodiment, the passageway extends completely through strap 20 from end 30 to end 32. In an exemplary embodiment, passageway 31, 33 extends partially through strap 20 from one of end 30 and end 32. In an exemplary embodiment, passageway 31 extends only partially through strap 20 from end 30 and passageway 33 extends only partially through strap 20 from end 32. For example, the passageways 31, 33 may not extend through the entire strap 20 because a forehead portion 21A (i.e., central portion) of the strap 20 may include only one layer of material or because the first and second layers of material are connected by, for example, stitching or adhesive in one or more locations between the ends 30, 32.

[0059] As shown in FIGS. 4 A and 4C, strap 20 includes forehead portion 21 A, temple portion 21B, and temple portion 21C. Forehead portion 21A is arranged between temple portion 21B and temple portion 21C. Temple portion 2 IB is arranged between forehead portion 21 A and end 30 of strap 20. Temple portion 21C is arranged between forehead portion 21A and end 32 of strap 20. In an exemplary embodiment, forehead portion 21 A includes height Hl and temple portion 21B and / or temple portion 21C includes height H2, wherein height H2 is greater than height Hl (see FIG. 4A). In an exemplary embodiment, end 30 and / or end 32 includes height H3, wherein height H3 is greater than height Hl and less than height H2. It should be appreciated that, in one or more exemplary embodiments, headband 10 can have a single uniform height, i.e., where forehead portion 21A, temple portion 21B, and temple portion 21C are all the same height. In an exemplary embodiment, and as best shown in FIG. 9A, when headband 10 is in the secured state, forehead portion 21 A is arranged at angle a with respect to vertical direction DI. In an exemplary embodiment, angle a is an acute angle. In an exemplary embodiment, angle a is approximately 5°. These variations in height throughout strap 20 and / or the angular arrangement of foreheadportion 21A in the secured state of headband 10 are arranged to matingly engage with the user’s forehead and provides the user with the best possible securement and comfort.

[0060] Strap 20 further includes one or more openings 34A, 34B (show n best in FIG. 4C) arranged at or proximate to temple portion 21B. Opening 34A is arranged between forehead portion 21A and opening 34B, generally along horizontal direction D2. Opening 34B is arranged between opening 34A and end 30. In an exemplar}' embodiment, openings 34A and 34B are formed as a single opening by cutting one window into outer surface 22 (i.e., through the first layer). For example, and as shown in FIG. 13, window 34B forms two openings in strap 20. In an exemplar}' embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4C. opening 34A is formed by cutting a first hole into outer surface 22 and opening 34B is formed by cutting a second hole, spaced apart from the first hole, into outer surface 22. Openings 34 A, 34B are operatively arranged to engage strap 40 to form loop 12, as will be described in greater detail below'. It should be appreciated that in an exemplar}' embodiment, passageway 31 is formed through strap 20 from end 30 to a point between opening 34A and forehead portion 21 A (e.g.. end 42 as shown in FIGS. 4A-4B).

[0061] Strap 20 further includes one or more openings 36A, 36B arranged at or proximate to temple portion 21C. Opening 36A is arranged between forehead portion 21A and opening 36B, generally along horizontal direction D2. Opening 36B is arranged between opening 36A and end 32. In an exemplar}’ embodiment, openings 36A and 36B are formed as a single opening by cutting one window into outer surface 22 (i.e., through the first layer). For example, and as shown in FIG. 13, window 36B forms two openings in strap 20. In an exemplary embodiment, opening 36A is formed by cutting a first hole into outer surface 22 and opening 36B is formed by cutting a second hole, spaced apart from the first hole, into outer surface 22. Openings 36A, 36B are operatively arranged to engage strap 60 to form loop 14. as will be described in greater detail below. It should be appreciated that in an exemplary embodiment, passageway 33 is formed through strap 20 from end 32 to a point betw een opening 36A and forehead portion 21 A (e.g., end 62 as shown in FIGS. 4A-B).

[0062] In an exemplary embodiment, strap 20 includes at least one of polyester, elastane (e.g., LYCRA® elastane), fabric, and polyester fiber. In an exemplar}' embodiment, top 26 and / or bottom 28 layers include synthetic polyester fiber or fabric, for example TERYLENE synthetic polyester fiber. In an exemplary embodiment, the layer forming outer surface 22 includes polyester, LYCRA® synthetic elastic fiber, fabric, or a combination of thereof. For example, In an exemplar}- embodiment, the layer forming outer surface 22 includes a first layer of polyester, a second layer of LYCRA® synthetic elastic fiber, and athird layer of fabric (e.g., approximately 0.08 mm in thickness). In an exemplar ' embodiment, the layer forming inner surface 24 includes polyester, LYCRA® synthetic elastic fiber, styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), fabric, or acombination of thereof. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the layer forming inner surface 24 includes a first layer of polyester, a second layer of LYCRA® synthetic elastic fiber, a third layer of styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) (e.g., approximately 1.0 mm in thickness), and a fourth layer of fabric. In an exemplary embodiment, strap 20 is non-elastic. In an exemplar}’ embodiment, at least a portion of strap 20 is operable to experience small elastic deformation.

[0063] Strap 40 includes end 42 and end 44. End 44 is operatively arranged to be connected to strap 60. In an exemplary embodiment, end 42 is fixedly secured to strap 20. In an exemplary' embodiment, end 42 is fixedly secured to strap 20 within passageway 31, at a point between opening 34 A and forehead portion 21 A. as best shown in FIG. 4 A. It should be appreciated that strap 40 may be secured to strap 20 via any suitable means, for example, stitching 49 (shown in FIG. 4B), adhesives, etc. End 44 is arranged to extend out of passageway 31 beyond end 30. In an exemplary' embodiment, end 44 is connected to connector 50. Strap 40 may be connected to connector 50 via any suitable means, for example, by looping end 44 around a portion of connector 50. stitching, adhesives, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, connector 50 includes polyoxymethylene (POM) or acetal, polymer, or copolymer. Strap 40 is operatively arranged to engage both opening 34A and opening 34B such that a portion of strap 40, aligned with strap 20, is capable of extending radially outward of outer surface 22. This portion of strap 40 forms mounting loop 12.

[0064] In an exemplary embodiment, strap 40 is at least partially elastically deformable. For example, strap 40 includes non-elastic portion 46 and elastic portion 48. In an exemplary' embodiment, non-elastic portion 46 extends from end 42 to a position between opening 34B and end 30, thus providing a non-elastic mounting loop 12 with which to mount devices. Elastic portion 48 extends from non-elastic portion 46 (i.e., at a position between opening 34B and end 30) to end 44. Elastic portion 48 provides some elastic deformation (i.e., “give”) in headband 10 allowing for greater comfort to the user when headband 10 is in the secured state. Additionally, elastic portion 48 is arranged such that the amount of elastic deformation is not too great, i.e., not so elastic that devices attached to loop 12 will sag or rotate when mounted. In an exemplary’ embodiment, non-elastic portion 46 includes polyester, LYCRA® synthetic elastic fiber, fabric, or a combination of thereof. For example, non-elastic portion 46 may include a first layer of polyester, a second layer of LYCRA® synthetic elastic fiber, and a third layer of fabric (e.g., approximately 0.08 mm in thickness). In another exemplary’ embodiment, strap 40 is completely elastic. In yet another exemplary embodiment, strap 40 is completely non-elastic.

[0065] Strap 60 includes end 62 and end 64. End 64 is operatively arranged to be connected to strap 20. In an exemplary’ embodiment, end 64 is fixedly secured to strap 20. In an exemplary' embodiment, end 62 is fixedly secured to strap 20 within passageway 33, at a point betweenopening 36A and forehead portion 21A, as best shown in FIG. 4A. It should be appreciated that strap 60 may be secured to strap 20 via any suitable means, for example, stitching 69, adhesives, etc. End 64 is arranged to extend out of passageway 33 beyond end 32. In an exemplary embodiment, end 64 is operatively arranged to be connected to connector 50, as will be described in greater detail below. Strap 60 is operatively arranged to engage both opening 36A and opening 36B such that a portion of strap 60, aligned with strap 20, is capable of extending radially outward of outer surface 22. This portion of strap 60 forms mounting loop 14. In an exemplary' embodiment, loop 14 (i.e., the engagement of strap 60 and strap 20) forms a choker hitch.

[0066] In an exemplary embodiment, strap 60 (shown in FIG. 4E) includes multiple layers or components. For example, strap 60 may include section 66 including one of hook fasteners and loop fasteners, and section 68 including the other of hook fasteners and loop fasteners. In an exemplary' embodiment, sections 66 and 68 may be connected to layer 70. In such embodiment, layer 70 is a backing layer to which sections 66 and 68 are secured (i.e., strap 60 includes section 66. section 68, and layer 70). Strap 60 is operatively arranged to be connected to connector 50 to secure headband 10 to a user’s head. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, strap 60 is fed through connector 50 in a first direction and folded, for example along line 67, such that loop fastener section 68 can be secured to hook fastener section 66. This connection method allows headband 10 to be adjustably tightened based on the size of the user’s head. It should be appreciated, ho ever, that any means suitable for adjustably connecting strap 60 to strap 40 may be used, for example, one or more snaps, one or more clamps, a buckle, a ladder lock buckle, a connecting clip, etc.

[0067] In an exemplary embodiment, strap 60 is non-elastic. In an exemplar}’ embodiment, strap 60 is at least partially elastic. In an exemplary embodiment, layer 70 includes polyester, LYCRA® synthetic elastic fiber, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), or a combination of thereof. For example, layer 70 may include a first layer of polyester, a second layer of LYCRA® synthetic elastic fiber, and a third layer of TPU (e g., 0.1 mm in height). In an exemplary embodiment, section 66 includes hook fastener and section 68 includes loop fastener. In an exemplar}’ embodiment, section 66 includes loop fastener and section 68 includes hook fastener.

[0068] FIG. 5 is a top front perspective view of headband 10, in an unsecured state. FIG. 6 is a top front perspective view' of headband 10, in a partial disassembled state. FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of headband 10, showing mounting loop 14 in a loosened state. FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of aportion of headband 10, showing loop 12 in a loosened state. In an exemplar}' embodiment, and as shown, headband 10 further includes one or more brackets or clips, for example, clip 80 and / or clip 82, operatively arranged to facilitate mounting or connection of devices to headband 10.

[0069] Clip 80 includes an inner surface arranged to abut against strap 20, an outer surface, and one or more openings that engage strap 40 to connect clip 80 to strap 20. For example, clip 80 includes a first opening and a second opening. In an exemplary7embodiment, strap 40 is fed radially outward through the first opening and radially inward through the second opening to secure clip 80 to strap 20. In one example embodiment, and when assembled, the opening 34A aligns with the first opening of clip 80, and the opening 34B aligns with the second opening of clip 80, which operates to prevent clip 80 from moving relative to strap 20. In an exemplary7embodiment, clip 80 includes a connector operatively arranged to engage display 90, as shown in FIGS. 1-2 and 10. In an exemplary embodiment, display 90 is slidingly and / or pivotably connected to clip 80. As such, display 90 is mountable to headband 10, specifically strap 20, via clip 80 and strap 40. In an exemplary7embodiment, display 90 may include one or more of the displays disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 2020 / 0278555 (Porter et al.), which patent application publication is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0070] Clip 82 includes an inner surface arranged to abut against strap 20. an outer surface, and one or more openings that engage strap 60 to connect clip 82 to strap 20. For example, clip 82 includes a first opening and a second opening. In an exemplary embodiment, strap 60 is fed radially outward through the first opening and radially inward through the second opening to secure clip 82 to strap 20. In one example embodiment, and when assembled, the opening 36A aligns with the first opening of clip 82, and the opening 36B aligns with the second opening of clip 82, which operates to prevent clip 82 from moving relative to strap 20. In an exemplary7embodiment, clip 82 includes a connector, for example a slot, operatively arranged to engage battery 92, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 10. In an exemplary embodiment, battery 92 is slidingly and / or pivotably connected to clip 82. As such, battery 92 is mountable to headband 10, specifically strap 20, via clip 82 and strap 60.

[0071] Wire 94 may be fed or fished through a passage in support 110. For example, display 90 may be electrically connected to battery792 via wire 94. Additionally or optionally, display 90 may be electrically connected to a peripheral device, e.g., a personal computer, laptop, smart phone, etc., via wire 94. Wire 94 may be routed around the user’s head outside of headband 10. Wire 94 can be directed from battery 92 or other peripheral device, through support 110, as best shown in FIG. 1 and described in greater detail below.

[0072] FIG. 9A is a left side elevational view of headband 10, in a secured state. FIG. 9B is a right side elevational view of headband 10, in a secured state. FIG. 10 is a front elevational view of headband 10, with display 90 and battery 92 connected thereto. As shown, strap 60 is secured to strap 40 to form a secured state of headband 10. It should be appreciated that when strap 20 is tightened to the user's head, for example via the engagement of strap 60 with strap 40 viaconnector 50, headband 10 tightens around the user’s head and loops 12 and 14 tighten to secure clips 80 and 82 securely against strap 20.

[0073] FIG. 11 is a front elevational view of a portion of headband 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter. As shown, in some embodiments strap 20 includes first opening 34B and second opening 36B. First passageway 31 extends between end 30 and first opening 34B, and second passageway 33 extends between end 32 and second opening 36B. Strap 40 engages passageway 31 and is fixedly secured to strap 20. For example, end 42 of strap 40 is fed into passageway 31 through end 30, out of passageway 31 through opening 34B, and is secured to outer surface 22 or inner surface 24 (e.g., via stitching 49). The portion of strap 40 arranged between stitching 49 and opening 34B forms loop 12. Strap 60 engages passageway 33 and is fixedly secured to strap 20. For example, end 62 of strap 60 is fed into passageway 33 through end 32, out of passageway 33 through opening 36B, and is secured to outer surface 22 or inner surface 24 (e.g., via stitching 69). The portion of strap 60 arranged between stitching 49 and opening 36B forms loop 14.

[0074] FIG. 12 is a front elevational view of a portion of headband 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter. As shown, in some embodiments, headband 10 includes two straps, for example, strap 20 and strap 40. Strap 20 may include one or more openings, for example, opening 34B. First passageway 31 extends between end 30 and opening 34B. Strap 40 engages passageway 31 and is fixedly secured to strap 20. For example, end 42 of strap 40 is fed into passageway 31 through end 30, out of passageway 31 through opening 34B, and is secured to outer surface 22 or inner surface 24 (e.g., via stitching 49). The portion of strap 40 arranged between stitching 49 and opening 34B forms loop 12. End 44 (not shown) of strap 40 is operatively arranged to be connected to end 32 to form a secured state of headband 50, for example via a clip (e.g., clip 50), snap, buckle, loop, hook and loop fastener, or the like.

[0075] FIG. 14 is a top rear perspective view' of support 110. FIG. 15 is a rear elevational view of support 110. FIG. 16 is a top plan view of support 110. FIG. 17 is a partial cross-sectional view' of support 110 taken generally along line 17-17 in FIG. 14. Support 110 includes section 120, plate 150A, and plate 150B.

[0076] Section 120 includes radially outward facing surface 122, radially inward facing surface 124, top 126, bottom 128, end 130, and end 132. In an exemplar ' embodiment, section 120 is arcuate, curved, or curvilinear, resembling a semi-circle. In an exemplary embodiment, section 120 is tubular (i.e., is hollow), wherein interior space S2 is formed or bounded by radially outward facing surface 122, radially inward facing surface 124, top 126, and bottom 128 (as shown in FIG. 17). Interior space S2 forms a pathway through which cable or wire 94 is fed (as shown in FIG. 1). Section 120 includes height H4 (shown in FIG. 15) and thickness T1 (shown in FIG. 16). Inan exemplary embodiment, section 120 includes a rigid material that allows for some elastic deformation, for example, polyethylene terephthalate (PET). In other exemplary embodiments, section 120 includes a material that is not elastically deformable.

[0077] Section 120 further includes hole 134A and hole 134B. Hole 134A extends radially inward through radially outward facing surface 122 to interior space S2 of section 120. In an exemplars’ embodiment, hole 134A is arranged proximate end 130 and allows cable or wire 94 to exit interior space S2 of section 120. Grommet 136A is arranged at least partially in hole 134A and forms hole 138A. Grommet 136A is arranged to direct cable or wire 94 in direction D3 (shown in FIG. 16), preventing cable or wire 94 from easily displacing, protecting cable or wire 94 from engaging sharp edges of hole 134A, and, due to the shallower angle with respect to a normal of outwardly facing surface 122, the thickness of cable or wire 94 can be increased without the need to bend at relatively high angles, possibly damaging the cable or wire 94. In an exemplary embodiment, grommet 136A includes rubber or other elastic material. As best shown in FIG. 16, a centerline of hole 138A is directed in direction D3 (i.e., grommet 136A directs cable or wire 94 in direction D3). Direction D3 is arranged at angle |3 with respect to the normal, namely, a radially outward direction perpendicular to the tangent. In an exemplary' embodiment, angle is an acute angle selected from a range of angles between 30 and 60 degrees, for example, 35, 40, 45, 50, and 55 degrees. In an exemplary embodiment, and as best shown in FIG. 15, grommet 136A further includes flap 140A extending over hole 138A in a first direction and flap 142A extending over hole 138A in a second direction. Flaps 140A and 142A form slit 144A therebetween. The arrangement of flaps 140A and 142A apply force to wire 94 to maintain its position therebetween. In some exemplary embodiments grommet 136A does not include flaps 140A and 142A and instead includes only hole 138A. In these exemplary embodiments, slit 144A is formed at one end of grommet 136A such that hole 138A can elastically expand and contract to provide a frictional engagement with cable or wire 94.

[0078] Hole 134B extends radially inw ard through radially outward facing surface 122 to interior space S2 of section 120. In an exemplary embodiment, hole 134B is arranged proximate to end 132 and allows cable or wire 94 to exit interior space S2 of section 120. Grommet 136B is arranged in hole 134B and forms hole 138B. Grommet 136B is arranged to direct cable or wire 94 in direction D4. prevent wire 94 from easily displacing, and protect wire 94 from engaging sharp edges of hole 134B. In an exemplary embodiment, grommet 136B includes rubber. As best shown in FIG. 16, a centerline of hole 138B is directed in direction D4 (i.e., grommet 136B directs wire 94 in direction D4). Direction D4 is arranged at angle y with respect to the normal, namely, a radially outward direction perpendicular to the tangent. In an exemplary’ embodiment, angle y is an acute angle selected from a range of angles between 30 and 60 degrees, for example, 35, 40,45, 50, and 55 degrees. In an exemplary embodiment, and as best shown in FIG. 15, grommet 136B further includes flap 140B extending over hole 138B in a first direction and flap 142B extending over hole 138B in a second direction. Flaps 140B and 142B form slit 144B therebetween. The arrangement of flaps 140B and 142B apply force to cable or wire 94 to maintain its position therebetween. In some exemplary embodiments grommet 136B does not include flaps 140B and 142B and instead includes only hole 138B. In these exemplary embodiments, slit 144B is formed at one end of grommet 136B such that hole 138B can elastically expand and contract to provide a frictional engagement with cable or wire 94.

[0079] Plate 150A is connected to end 130 of section 120. Plate 150A includes radially outward facing surface 152A, radially inward facing surface 154A, top 156A, bottom 158A, end 160A, and end 162A. In an exemplary embodiment, plate 150A is arcuate, curved, or curvilinear. In an exemplary7embodiment, plate 150A has a radius of curvature that is greater than, equal to, or less than a radius of curvature of section 120. Radially inward facing surface 154A is arranged to engage outer surface 22 of strap 20, and radially outward facing surface 152A is arranged to engage clip 82 (shown in FIGS. 1-2). Thus, in an exemplary' embodiment, plate 150A is arranged radially between strap 20 of headband 10 and clip 82. Plate 150A further includes at least one hole, for example, hole 164A and hole 166 A. Holes 164A and 166A are operatively arranged to engage strap 60 (shown in at least FIG. 13). Plate 150A is arranged to be secured to headband 10 via strap 60. Plate 150A includes height H5 (shown in FIG.15) and thickness T2 (shown in FIG. 16). In an exemplary' embodiment, height H5 is greater than height H4. In an exemplary' embodiment, thickness T2 is less than thickness Tl. In an exemplary embodiment, plate 150A includes a rigid material, for example PET. In some exemplary embodiments, plate 150A includes a material capable of flexing to conform to the curvature of a user’s head.

[0080] Plate 150B is connected to end 132 of section 120. Plate 150B includes radially outward facing surface 152B, radially inward facing surface 154B, top 156B, bottom 158B, end 160B, and end 162B. In an exemplary embodiment, plate 150B is arcuate, curved, or curvilinear. In an exemplary embodiment, plate 150B has a radius of curvature that is greater than, equal to, or less than a radius of curvature of section 120. Radially inward facing surface 154B is arranged to engage outer surface 22 of strap 20 and radially outw ard facing surface 152B is arranged to engage clip 80 (shown in at least FIGS. 1-2). Thus, in an exemplary embodiment, plate 150B is arranged radially between strap 20 of headband 10 and clip 80. Plate 150B further includes at least one hole, for example, hole 164B and hole 166B. Holes 164B and 166B are operatively arranged to engage strap 60. Plate 150B is arranged to be secured to headband 10 via strap 40 (shown in at least FIG. 13). Plate 150B includes height H5 (shown in FIG. 15) and thickness T2 (shown in FIG. 16). In an exemplary embodiment, height H5 is greater than height H4. In an exemplaryembodiment thickness T2 is less than thickness Tl. In an exemplary embodiment plate 150B includes a rigid material, for example PET. In some exemplary' embodiments, plate 150B includes a material capable of flexing to confirm to the curvature of a user’s head.

[0081] To assemble headband assembly 8, support 110 is arranged radially around headband 10, for example, with plate 150A and plate 150B arranged proximate to strap 60 and strap 40, respectively. Strap 40 is fed out of passageway 31 via opening 34A. End 44 is fed back into passageway 31 via opening 34B and out of strap 20 via end 30. Loop 12 is formed between strap 40 and strap 20. In an exemplary' embodiment, before end 44 is fed back into passageway 31 via opening 34B, end 44 is fed through plate 150B and clip 80. For example, end 44 may be fed radially outward through hole 164B and a first opening of clip 80, and then radially inward through hole 166B and a second opening of clip 80. In an exemplary' embodiment, end 44 is connected to connector 50. FIG. 8 shows loop 12 in a loosened state. As end 44 is pulled out of end 30, loop 12 closes and clamps plate 150B and / or clip 80 securely against strap 20. It should be appreciated that the clamping effect of loop 12 may be used for other devices, and not just clip 80 as shown or plate 150B as described above.

[0082] Similarly, strap 60 is fed out of passageway 33 via opening 36A. End 64 is fed back into passageway 33 via opening 36B and out of strap 20 via end 32. Loop 14, shown in FIG. 7, is formed between strap 60 and strap 20. In an exemplary embodiment, before end 64 is fed back into passageway 33 via opening 36B, end 64 is fed through plate 150A and clip 82. For example, end 64 may be fed radially outward through hole 164A and a first opening of clip 82, and then radially inward through hole 166A and a second opening of clip 82. In an exemplary embodiment, end 64 is connected to connector 50 as previously described. FIG. 7 shows loop 14 in a loosened state. As end 64 is pulled out of end 32, loop 14 closes and clamps plate 150A and clip 82 securely against strap 20. It should be appreciated that the clamping effect of loop 14 may be used for other devices, and not just clip 82 as shown or plate 150A as described above.

[0083] When headband assembly 8 is fully assembled, support 110 acts to maintain headband 10 in an at least partially expanded state making it easier for user 2 to put headband assembly 8 on. Additionally, radial space SI is formed between radially inward facing surface 124 and headband 10, such that support 120 acts or operates as a handle that user 2 may grab when transporting headband assembly 8. Moreover, support 120 provides a guide or passageway for wire 94.

[0084] One or more features of the embodiments described herein may be combined to create additional embodiments which are not depicted. While various embodiments have been described in detail above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example, and not limitation. It will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant arts that the disclosed subject matter may be embodied in other specific forms, variations, and modifications without departing fromthe scope, spirit, or essential characteristics thereof. The embodiments described above are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative, and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is indicated by the appended claims, and all changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalents thereof are intended to be embraced therein.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A headband assembly, comprising: a support including: a first inward facing surface; a first outward facing surface; a first top; a first bottom; a first end; and a second end; a first plate connected to the first end, the first plate including a first through-hole and a second through-hole spaced apart from the first through-hole; and a second plate connected to the second end, the second plate including a third through- hole and a fourth through-hole spaced apart from the third through-hole.

2. The headband assembly as recited in claim 1, wherein the support comprises a section, wherein the section is arcuate, curved, or curvilinear.

3. The headband assembly as recited in claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first plate and the second plate is arcuate, curved, or curvilinear.

4. The headband assembly as recited in claim 2. wherein an interior space is formed in the section by the first inward facing surface, the first outward facing surface, the first top and the first end.

5. The headband assembly as recited in claim 4, wherein the section further comprises a first hole extending radially through the first outward facing surface to the interior space.

6. The headband assembly as recited in claim 5, further comprising a cable or wire extending through the first hole and at least partially in the interior space.

7. The headband assembly as recited in claim 5, further comprising a grommet arranged in the first hole, the grommet comprising a second hole.

8. The headband assembly as recited in claim 7, wherein the second hole is arranged at an acute angle relative to a normal of the outward facing surface.

9. The headband assembly as recited in claim 7, wherein the grommet comprises a slit configured to provide frictional engagement with the cable or wire.

10. The headband assembly as recited in claim 5, wherein the support further comprises a second hole extending radially through the first outward facing surface to the interior space, the second hole being circumferentially spaced apart from the first hole.

11. The headband assembly as recited in claim 2, wherein: the support comprises a first height; the first plate comprises a second height; the second plate comprises a third height; and the first height is less than the second height and the third height.

12. The headband assembly as recited in claim 2, wherein: the support comprises a first thickness; the first plate comprises a second thickness; the second plate comprises a third thickness; and the first thickness is greater than the second thickness and the third thickness.

13. The headband assembly as recited in claim 2, further comprising a headband connected to the support, wherein the headband is engaged with the first through-hole, the second through-hole, the third through-hole, and the fourth through-hole.

14. The headband assembly as recited in claim 13, wherein: the headband comprises a second outward facing surface; and first plate and the second plate are operatively arranged to engage the second outward facing surface.

15. The headband assembly as recited in claim 13, wherein a radial space is formed between the headband and the first inward facing surface.

16. The headband assembly as recited in claim 13, wherein the headband comprises:a first strap, including: a first end comprising a first passageway; a second end comprising a second passageway; a first opening arranged on, in, along, or proximate to the first end; and a second opening arranged on, in, along, or proximate to the second end; a second strap connected to the first strap and engaged with the first through-hole and the second through-hole; and a third strap connected to the first strap and engaged with the third through-hole and the fourth through-hole; wherein the third strap is operatively arranged to selectively connect to the second strap.

17. The headband assembly as recited in claim 13, further comprising a first clip arranged on the headband, wherein the first plate is arranged radially between the headband and the first clip and the first clip is operatively arranged to slidingly or pivotably secure an electronic device to the headband.

18. A headband assembly for mounting one or more electronic devices, comprising: a headband, including: a first strap, comprising: a first end comprising a first passageway; a second end comprising a second passageway; a first opening arranged on. in, along, or proximate to the first end; and a second opening arranged on, in, along, or proximate to the second end; a second strap connected to the first strap, the second strap arranged at least partially through the first passageway and the first opening; and a third strap connected to the first strap, the third strap arranged at least partially through the second passageway and the second opening, wherein the third strap is operatively arranged to selectively connect to the second strap; and a support, including: a section comprising: a first inward facing surface; a first outward facing surface; a first top; a first bottom; a first end; anda second end; a first plate connected to the first end, the first plate comprising a first through-hole and a second through-hole spaced apart from the first through-hole, the second strap engaged with the first through-hole and the second through-hole; and a second plate connected to the second end, the second plate comprising a third through-hole and a fourth through-hole spaced apart from the third through-hole, the third strap engaged with the third through-hole and the fourth through-hole.

19. The headband assembly as recited in claim 17, wherein the section further comprises: a first hole extending radially inward through the first outward facing surface; and a second hole extending radially inward through the first outward facing surface, the second hole being spaced apart from the first hole.

20. The headband assembly as recited in claim 19. wherein at least one of the section, the first plate, and the second plate is arcuate, curved, or curvilinear.

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