Head-Mounted Display with External Controls for Off-Head Interaction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face challenges in interacting with head-mounted electronic devices when they are not being worn, as the internal display is not viewable, hindering input capabilities.
Innovation Solution
The electronic device incorporates external input-output components such as buttons, touch sensors, and projectors on its surfaces, allowing users to interact even when the device is not on their head, and can communicate wirelessly with external equipment for controlling both the device and other electronic devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the device uses an inner display for user interaction, then the display can present images to users when worn, but the user cannot view or interact with the display when the device is not being worn
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling the device to operate in multiple modes: head-mounted mode with inner display interaction and non-worn mode with outer display interaction. The same device housing and processing unit support both interaction methods, making the input-output system universal across different operational states
2Ease of operation
If the device is designed as a head-mounted device with an inner display, then it can provide immersive viewing experience, but it lacks externally accessible input-output capabilities when not being worn
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the display system into two distinct displays: an inner display for head-mounted operation and an outer display for non-worn operation. This segmentation allows each display to serve its specific function without interfering with the other, resolving the contradiction between immersive viewing and external accessibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a new dimension to the display system by introducing an outer display on the external surface of the housing, complementing the inner display. This dimensional addition enables the device to provide input-output capabilities in both worn and non-worn states without compromising the immersive experience
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
Enables seamless user interaction with the device and external equipment without needing to wear the device, enhancing usability and accessibility by providing alternative input methods and maintaining functionality as a stand-alone or connected device.
Implementation Method 1
The inner display may output light that passes through lenses to eye boxes
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device may have an inner display mounted in a housing so that an image on the inner display is presented to an eye box through a lens for viewing by a user while the electronic device is being worn on a head of the user. The electronic device may have input-output devices that are operable on external surfaces of the electronic device. The input-output devices may be used to gather user input for controlling an external device while the electronic device is not being worn on the user's head. The input-output devices may include a touch screen display, buttons, and other input-output components. An input-output component may be formed on a movable member that can be moved between a stored position and a deployed position. A projector may project images onto nearby surfaces. A removable electronic device may be coupled to head-mounted support structures or other housing structures.