Head-Mountable Device Spring Securement Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing head-mountable devices lack effective securement mechanisms that provide a comfortable and adjustable fit for various users, compromising usability and functionality.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a head-mountable device with a frame and arms that utilize an arrangement of spring elements with biased configurations and a tensioner system, allowing for gentle retraction and adjustable securement, along with operative connections across a hinge for communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rigid securement mechanism is used, then the device is securely held on the head, but the comfort and adjustability for various users deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by replacing rigid securement structures with flexible components including spring elements and articulated arms that can dynamically adjust to different head shapes and sizes. The spring elements provide continuous contact pressure while the articulated arms pivot to accommodate various angles, enabling the same device to securely fit different users without compromising reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by incorporating adjustable tensioning mechanisms and spring elements with variable stiffness. These components allow the securement system to change its mechanical parameters (pressure, angle, position) to adapt to different users while maintaining consistent securement reliability through the adjustable range of motion and force application.
2Ease of operation
If spring elements with biased configurations are used, then comfort and gentle retraction are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by using spring elements with biased configurations that automatically provide gentle retraction force and maintain contact with the user's head without requiring active control. The springs self-regulate the pressure and automatically retract when needed, eliminating the need for complex control systems while providing comfortable, adaptive securement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent reduces complexity by segmenting the spring system into discrete, modular elements distributed along the arms. Each spring element operates independently to provide localized gentle retraction, allowing the complex function of continuous comfortable contact to be achieved through multiple simple, identical components rather than one complex mechanism.
3Adaptability or versatility
If operative connections are made across the hinge, then functionality is enhanced, but the hinge complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies nesting by placing operative connection elements (such as electrical contacts or data transmission components) inside the hinge assembly structure. The connection components are nested within the existing hinge mechanism, allowing functionality to be added without requiring separate external connection structures, thereby minimizing the increase in overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves multi-functionality by designing the hinge to simultaneously provide mechanical articulation and serve as a conduit for operative connections. The same hinge structure that enables range of motion also houses the electrical or data connections between device components, eliminating the need for separate connection mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity.
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
This solution provides a comfortable and secure fit for users while enabling adjustable securement and operative connections, enhancing the usability and functionality of head-mountable devices.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element biasing the follower against the ramp of the cam
Data Source
AI summary
Head-mountable devices can provide comfortable securement to a head of a user while also providing operative connections for communication across a hinge of the head-mountable device. The securement can be based on an arrangement of spring elements that have biased configurations and allow gentle retraction against a head of the user. Head-mountable devices of the present disclosure can provide adjustable securement against a head of a user by allowing custom fitting, for example with a tensioner.