Adjustable Headband Weight Distribution for HMDs

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current headbands for head-worn devices, such as HMDs, do not evenly distribute the weight, leading to pressure points and discomfort due to variations in user head sizes and shapes, as they fail to account for individual differences in size and shape.

Innovation Solution

A head-worn assembly with an adjustable headband that includes a crown loop and overhead loop, featuring customizable adjustments and mounting positions to center the weight of the head-worn device, distributing it evenly across the head, thereby preventing torque and pressure points.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed-size headband is used, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate different head sizes and shapes, leading to poor weight distribution and pressure points

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccommodation of different head sizes and shapesVSAvoidheadband structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The headband incorporates adjustable loops (crown loop and overhead loop) with adjustment mechanisms that allow the structure to change size and configuration dynamically. This enables the same headband to adapt to different head sizes and shapes while maintaining proper weight distribution, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and structural simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The headband is divided into separate adjustable loops (crown loop and overhead loop) rather than a single fixed structure. Each loop can be independently adjusted, allowing the system to accommodate various head geometries while keeping the overall design relatively simple through modular components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Stress or pressure

If the head-worn device is mounted off-center, then the mounting position is simpler, but weight is not evenly distributed, creating pressure points on the nose, ears, or top of the head

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepressure distribution on headVSAvoidmounting position configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Stress or pressureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting position is made adjustable rather than fixed, allowing the center of gravity to be dynamically positioned over the axis through the mounting positions. This ensures even weight distribution across the head while maintaining a relatively simple mounting structure that can be configured for different weight distributions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system allows adjustment of the center of gravity position as a parameter to optimize weight distribution. By changing the mounting configuration or component distribution, the center of gravity can be positioned to lie over the mounting axis, eliminating pressure points while keeping the mounting structure simple.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If the headband does not account for individual head variations, then the design is simpler, but pressure points develop and comfort is reduced during prolonged wear

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomfort during prolonged wearVSAvoidadjustment mechanisms
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The headband includes adjustable loops with adjustment mechanisms that allow users to customize the fit for their specific head size and shape. This dynamic adjustability ensures comfort during prolonged wear by accommodating individual variations, while the adjustment mechanisms remain relatively simple in design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The adjustment mechanisms are designed to be user-operable, allowing individuals to self-adjust the headband to their specific needs. This provides comfort tailored to each user without requiring complex automated systems or professional fitting procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS10034508B2Weight-distributing headband for head-worn assembly
Publication Date: 2018.07.31 MICROSOFT TECHNOLOGY LICENSING LLC
  • US10034508B2 patent drawing
  • US10034508B2 patent drawing
  • US10034508B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A head-worn assembly is disclosed including a head-worn device supported on a headband. The headband may include a first loop positioned around the head, and possibly a second loop affixed to the first loop and positioned over the head. Weight distribution and comfort of the head-worn assembly may be optimized by mounting the head-worn device at an approximate center (front to back) of the headband, and further balancing the weight of the head-worn device (front to back) over the mounting point. The weight distribution and comfort of the head-worn assembly may be further optimized by providing several user-customizable adjustments to the head-worn assembly.