Adjustable Face Cushion for Head-Mounted Displays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Head-mounted devices face challenges in providing a comfortable and secure fit for users due to variations in facial shapes and different usage scenarios, such as gaming and movie viewing, where a snug or loose fit is required.
Innovation Solution
An electrically adjustable face cushion with inflatable air bags and airflow control systems, controlled by strain gauge sensors and control circuitry, allows for customizable fit adjustments based on user input, operating mode, and real-time sensor feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed face cushion is used in head-mounted devices, then the device structure is simple, but the comfort and fit for different users and usage scenarios is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The face cushion incorporates inflatable air bags that can dynamically adjust their volume and pressure to adapt to different facial shapes and usage scenarios. The air bags are connected to an inflation system that can modify the cushion's characteristics in real-time, transforming a static cushion into a dynamic, adaptive component.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses pneumatic elements (inflatable air bags) within the face cushion to provide adjustable support and comfort. The air bags can be inflated or deflated to change the cushion's shape and pressure distribution, offering a mechanism to adapt to different users and scenarios without complex mechanical adjustments.
2Ease of operation
If an adjustable face cushion with air bags is used, then the fit comfort is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The face cushion design integrates multiple functions into a single component: the air bags serve both as structural support elements and as adjustable comfort elements. The same pneumatic system that provides the adjustable fit also maintains the cushion's shape and provides pressure relief, reducing the need for separate adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical parameters of the face cushion (volume, pressure, shape) through inflation and deflation of the air bags. This allows a single cushion structure to provide multiple fit configurations without requiring multiple physical cushions or complex mechanical adjustment systems, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining adjustability.
3Reliability
If strain gauge sensors and airflow control systems are added, then real-time fit monitoring and adjustment is achieved, but the device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The face cushion system incorporates strain gauge sensors that continuously monitor the pressure and fit conditions. This feedback is sent to a control system that automatically adjusts the air bag inflation levels to maintain optimal fit. The closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures reliable monitoring and automatic adjustment without requiring manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses automatic control algorithms that process sensor data and adjust the cushion fit without user input. The airflow control system autonomously manages the inflation and deflation of air bags based on real-time sensor feedback, making the system self-regulating and reducing the need for complex user interfaces or manual adjustment mechanisms.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution ensures a comfortable and secure fit by dynamically adjusting the air bag inflation and strap tightness, enhancing user experience across various activities by accommodating individual facial shapes and changing needs.
Implementation Method 1
The electrically adjustable face cushion may have adjustable elements such as adjustable inflation air bags
Implementation Method 2
Airflow control systems formed from electrically adjustable airflow valves, check valves, and air pumps may be used in controlling inflation of the adjustable inflation air bags
Implementation Method 3
The sensor data may include strain gauge measurements of facial pressure on the air bags
Data Source
AI summary
A head-mounted device may have a head-mounted housing. The head-mounted housing may have rear-facing displays that display images for a user. The images are viewable from eye boxes while the head-mounted device is being worn by the user. An electrically adjustable face cushion may be provided between the head-mounted housing and the user's face. The electrically adjustable face cushion may have adjustable elements such as adjustable inflation air bags. Airflow control systems formed from electrically adjustable airflow valves, check valves, and air pumps may be used in controlling inflation of the adjustable inflation air bags in responses to changes in operating mode of the head-mounted device and/or in response to sensor data or other input. The sensor data may include strain gauge measurements of facial pressure on the air bags.