Adjustable Optical Modules in Head-Mounted Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Head-mounted devices face challenges in accommodating different user interpupillary distances due to fixed optical module spacing, which can lead to suboptimal image fusion and user comfort issues.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating adjustable optical module positioning systems with guide members and actuators that allow for manual or computer-controlled movement of optical modules along the chassis, enabling customization of interpupillary distance to suit individual users.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If fixed optical module spacing is used in head-mounted devices, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different user interpupillary distances deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different user interpupillary distancesVSAvoidoptical module positioning system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements adjustable optical module positioning systems that allow the optical modules to move along the chassis relative to each other. This dynamic adjustment capability enables customization of interpupillary distance for different users, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity by introducing controlled mobility to the optical modules through guide members and actuators.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If adjustable optical module positioning systems are incorporated, then adaptability to different users is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomization for individual usersVSAvoidadjustable positioning mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the optical module positioning system into independent adjustable units, where each optical module can be positioned separately along the chassis using individual guide members and actuators. This segmentation allows for precise customization of interpupillary distance while managing overall system complexity through modular design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Stability of the object's composition

If rigid box-shaped housing structure is used, then housing deformation is prevented, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehousing structure stabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple structural elements (chassis, display cover layer, heat sink layer, fan housing structure, and cover) into a stacked rigid box-shaped housing structure. This merged structure provides enhanced stability and prevents housing deformation while managing manufacturing complexity through a systematic assembly approach of interconnected components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS20250020937A1Head-Mounted Electronic Device
Publication Date: 2025.01.16 APPLE INC
  • US20250020937A1 patent drawing
  • US20250020937A1 patent drawing
  • US20250020937A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A head-mounted device may have a head-mounted housing. The housing may include a chassis with left and right openings that overlap respective left and right optical modules that present images eye boxes. Each optical module may have a lens and display that presents an image through the lens. The chassis may have an inner frame and outer frame. A middle portion of the chassis may form a stiffened nose bridge structure. Components in the housing such as a display, a fan housing, a heat sink layer, optical module guide rods, and a rear cover may span the width of the housing and may be attached to edge portions of the chassis, thereby forming a box-shaped structure that provides rigidity and helps prevent housing deformation.