Compliant Headset Mounting Arms for Nose Bridge Load Relief

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional virtual and augmented reality headsets are uncomfortable due to the weight distribution, which is typically concentrated on the nose bridge, leading to discomfort and insecurity, as they rely on straps that are cumbersome to adjust and may not effectively redistribute the weight across the head.

Innovation Solution

The use of compliant mounting arms that securely attach the headset to the head without straps, distributing the weight uniformly or non-uniformly across the strongest structural portions of the skull, such as the forehead and anchor points, through adjustable and deformable mechanisms.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If straps are used to securely attach the headset to the head, then the headset can be secured to the head, but the straps are cumbersome to adjust and may not effectively redistribute the weight across the head

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure attachmentVSAvoidadjustability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs elastic mounting arms with adjustable stiffness parameters that can be modified to accommodate different head sizes and shapes. The elastic properties allow the mounting arms to be compliant during adjustment while maintaining secure attachment during use, eliminating the need for cumbersome strap adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the traditional mechanical strap system with an elastic mounting arm system that uses elastic deformation to achieve secure attachment. This substitution eliminates the need for complex adjustment mechanisms while maintaining reliability through the elastic compliance that adapts to different head geometries.

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

2Reliability

If straps are used to secure the headset, then the headset can be attached to the head, but the weight is not effectively redistributed from the nose bridge to other areas

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure attachmentVSAvoidweight distribution
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the weight-bearing function into multiple segments by using multiple elastic mounting arms distributed across the headset structure. Each mounting arm independently supports a portion of the weight and transfers it to different contact points on the head, effectively redistributing the load from the nose bridge to broader areas including the temples and crown.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements counterbalancing through the geometric arrangement and elastic properties of the mounting arms, which create opposing force vectors that redistribute weight away from the nose bridge. The elastic deformation of the mounting arms generates counteracting forces that shift the weight distribution to more comfortable areas of the head.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #8Anti-weight (Counterweight)

3Reliability

If the headset is made heavy with additional components, then the VR/AR functionality is enhanced, but the headset becomes uncomfortable to wear

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional capabilityVSAvoidcomfort
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent modifies the mechanical parameters of the mounting arms, specifically their elastic compliance and structural geometry, to support heavier VR/AR components while maintaining comfort. The elastic properties allow the mounting arms to absorb and distribute the increased weight, preventing concentration of force on sensitive areas like the nose bridge.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

4Reliability

If the mounting mechanism is made secure with straps, then the headset stays attached to the head, but the mechanism becomes complex and cumbersome

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure attachmentVSAvoidmounting mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the complex mechanical strap system with a simpler elastic mounting arm system that achieves secure attachment through elastic deformation rather than mechanical fastening. This substitution dramatically reduces the complexity of the mounting mechanism while maintaining or improving attachment reliability through the inherent compliance of the elastic arms.

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

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 by evenly distributing the weight of the headset, reducing pressure on the nose bridge and improving the overall wearability and stability of the device.

Implementation Method 1

compliant arms selectively distribute a weight of the headset

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic body deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11674638B2Compliant mounting arm
Publication Date: 2023.06.13 MAGIC LEAP INC
  • US11674638B2 patent drawing
  • US11674638B2 patent drawing
  • US11674638B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An improved headset is provided to selectively distribute the weight of the headset while securely registering the headset comfortably on a wearer's head. The headset comprises one or more compliant arms and a frame to selectively distribute the weight of the headset and secure the headset to the wearer's head without the need for straps or leavers. The compliant arms provide a normalizing force through elastic body deformation to selectively distribute the weight of the headset.