AR/VR Headset Side Ball-Chain Adjustment for Compact Fit Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional AR/VR headset designs utilize central rack and pinion systems that require significant space within the headset enclosure, leading to design challenges and limitations in adjustment range due to the use of nylon cables, which can tangle and increase friction.

Innovation Solution

The use of a ball chain mechanism that allows for non-linear adjustment with reduced friction and infinite adjustment range, positioned on the side of the headset to free up central space and improve ergonomic access.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a central rack and pinion system is used for adjustment, then the adjustment mechanism is centralized, but it requires significant space within the headset enclosure

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecentralized adjustment mechanismVSAvoidspace within headset enclosure
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent moves the adjustment mechanism from a central location to a side location on the headset enclosure. This spatial repositioning in another dimension (from center to side) reduces the space requirements within the central headset enclosure while maintaining the adjustment functionality through the ball chain and sprocket system positioned at the periphery.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If nylon cables are used for adjustment, then the adjustment range is limited, but they can tangle and increase friction

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustment rangeVSAvoidtangling and friction
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the nylon cable mechanical system with a ball chain and sprocket mechanical system. The ball chain engages with the sprockets in a non-linear path, eliminating the tangling problem inherent in nylon cables while providing reduced friction through the ball bearing mechanism. This substitution enables infinite adjustment range without the harmful effects of cable tangling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Object-generated harmful factors

If a ball chain mechanism is used, then friction is reduced and adjustment range is infinite, but the mechanism becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefrictionVSAvoidball chain and sprocket system
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-generated harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the adjustment mechanism into distinct functional components: the ball chain for friction-reduced movement, the sprockets for non-linear path engagement, and the arcuate supports for structural positioning. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while collectively providing the benefits of reduced friction and infinite adjustment range.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Volume of moving object

If the adjustment mechanism is positioned centrally, then it is compact, but it limits ergonomic access and increases friction

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveheadset enclosure spaceVSAvoidergonomic access
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent repositions the adjustment mechanism from the central dimension to the side dimension of the headset enclosure. This dimensional change provides improved ergonomic access for users to operate the adjustment controls while maintaining a compact overall device profile. The side positioning allows natural hand access during normal佩戴 without requiring central space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS20250370501A1Adjustable ar/VR headset
Publication Date: 2025.12.04 MICROSOFT TECHNOLOGY LICENSING LLC
  • US20250370501A1 patent drawing
  • US20250370501A1 patent drawing
  • US20250370501A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An AR/VR headset that is configured to be worn on a user's head. The headset includes a first sprocket, a second sprocket and a ball chain engaging the first and second sprockets. A rotating actuator engages the first sprocket such that the first sprocket rotates and the ball chain translates along the first and second sprockets when torque is applied to the rotating actuator. The ball chain applies torque to the second sprocket as the ball chain translates along the first and second sprockets. A transmission gear engages the second sprocket and rotates with the second sprocket. A first arm includes a first set of internal gear teeth, and a second arm includes a second set of internal gear teeth. The transmission gear engages the first and second sets of gear teeth such that rotation of the transmission gear moves the second arm relative to the first arm.