Head-Mounted Securement Arm Hinge for Adjustable Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Head-mountable devices face challenges in accommodating diverse user head anatomies, leading to issues with comfort, reliability, and component protection due to varying dimensions, angles, and shapes.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a bi-stable hinge with a 4-bar linkage and spring mechanism in the securement arms, allowing for adjustable angles and positions to accommodate different head sizes and shapes, while protecting internal components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-configuration securement arms are used to attach the device to the user's head, then the device can be securely mounted, but it cannot accommodate different head sizes and shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The securement arm incorporates a bi-stable hinge mechanism that allows the arm to dynamically adjust between multiple stable angular positions. This enables the arm to adapt to different head sizes and shapes while maintaining secure contact through the ability to lock into stable positions that conform to the user's anatomy.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism changes the angular parameter of the securement arm relative to the display window, allowing adjustment between at least two stable angles. This parameter change enables the device to accommodate varying head dimensions while maintaining reliable securement through the stable equilibrium positions of the hinge.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the securement arm is made adjustable to fit different heads, then comfort and fit improve, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The securement arm is segmented into multiple rigid members connected by the bi-stable hinge, allowing independent movement and adjustment of each segment. This segmentation enables adaptability to different head shapes while keeping each individual component relatively simple in structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The bi-stable hinge mechanism is designed to automatically transition between stable positions and maintain them without active control or power sources. The mechanism self-regulates its angular position based on the user's head anatomy, reducing the need for complex control systems while maintaining adjustability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the hinge mechanism allows wide range of motion for adjustment, then adaptability improves, but protection of internal components from external elements decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism and its internal components are nested within a protective housing or enclosure that moves with the hinge. This nested structure allows the hinge to achieve a wide range of motion for adaptability while the enclosing structure protects the internal electronic components from external environmental elements throughout the full range of motion.
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
Enhances user comfort, reliability, and durability by providing adjustable securement arms that conform to individual head shapes, while safeguarding electronic components from external elements.
Implementation Method 1
a bi-stable hinge with a 4-bar linkage and spring mechanism in the securement arms, allowing for adjustable angles and positions
Data Source
AI summary
A head-mountable device can include a display, an arm, a bi-stable hinge connecting the arm to the display, the bi-stable hinge and the arm including an open position, a folded position, and a splay position. A first electronic component can be positionally fixed between the display and the bi-stable hinge, a second electronic component can be positioned distal to the bi-stable hinge, and a cable can connect the first electronic component and the second electronic component, the cable being routed through the bi-stable hinge.