Flexible Head Cradle for Even HMD Tension Distribution
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional adjustable bands for head-mounted displays often cause discomfort due to uneven foam cushion compression, sweating from plastic or vinyl coverings, and inadequate distribution of tensioning forces, leading to discomfort during extended wear.
Innovation Solution
A head cradle system with a flexible portion made from materials like thermoplastic polyurethane, embedded with rigid inserts, and biasing elements such as leaf springs that conform to the occipital region of the user's head, distributing tension evenly and providing a comfortable fit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If foam cushion is used in traditional adjustable bands, then the head-mounted display can be secured to the user's head, but the foam cushion compresses unevenly causing discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional foam cushions with a flexible cradle component that has a curved surface conforming to the occipital region of the user's head. This flexible shell design allows uniform distribution of contact pressure while maintaining secure attachment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material parameters from foam to flexible polymer materials with specific elastic modulus ranges (0.01-5 GPa), and adjusts the geometric parameters of the cradle to match the curvature of the human occipital region, thereby achieving uniform pressure distribution.
2Strength
If plastic or vinyl coverings are used on the adjustable band, then the structure is protected and maintained, but the user experiences sweating and discomfort during extended wear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces plastic or vinyl coverings with flexible polymer materials that provide both structural integrity and comfort. These materials have appropriate elastic modulus and surface properties that reduce sweating and discomfort while maintaining protective functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite material structures combining flexible polymers with appropriate surface treatments or coatings that provide both mechanical strength and comfort properties, eliminating the sweating issue associated with traditional plastic or vinyl coverings.
3Reliability
If traditional adjustable bands are used, then the head-mounted display can be secured, but the tensioning forces are not evenly distributed leading to discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible cradle component acts as a tension-distributing element that spreads localized forces across a broader area of the occipital region through its curved surface geometry and material compliance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the mechanical parameters of the adjustable band system by introducing a flexible cradle with specific elastic modulus and geometric curvature, transforming the force distribution pattern from concentrated to distributed while maintaining securing capability.
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 head cradle system ensures a comfortable and secure fit for head-mounted displays by conforming to the user's head, allowing for extended wear without discomfort and improving the distribution of tensioning forces.
Implementation Method 1
biasing elements (e.g., leaf springs) of a base portion of the head cradle that flex under the applied tension
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed head cradle may include a flexible portion that is configured to conform to an occipital region of a user's head and a base portion comprising at least one mounting element that is configured to secure the head cradle to a head strap for supporting a head-mounted display, a first biasing element secured to a first side of the flexible portion, and a second biasing element secured to a second, opposite side of the flexible portion, wherein the first and second biasing elements are configured to allow the flexible portion to conform to the occipital region of the user's head when a force substantially normal to the user's head is applied to the base portion. Various other devices, methods, and systems are also disclosed.