Movable Balancing Mass for Head-Mounted Display Torque Offset
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Solution Overview
Problem
Head-mounted displays induce forward torque when worn, causing discomfort and fatigue due to the center of gravity being forward of the head-neck pivot joint, which increases as the user tilts their head forward.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a movable balancing mass that shifts relative to the display unit to offset changes in torque, allowing the center of gravity to adjust rearward as the head tilts forward, thereby reducing the neck torque required to stabilize the display.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the center of gravity is positioned forward of the head-neck pivot joint to support the display unit, then the display unit can be properly positioned forward for optimal viewing, but forward torque increases causing user discomfort and fatigue
Solution Approach 1:
A balancing mass is introduced as a counterweight to offset the forward torque generated by the display unit. The balancing mass is positioned rearward of the head-neck pivot joint to create a counterbalancing moment that opposes the forward torque, thereby reducing the net torque that the user's neck muscles must counteract.
Solution Approach 2:
The balancing mass is made movable relative to the display unit, allowing its position to be adjusted dynamically. This enables the system to adapt to different head tilt angles and usage conditions, optimizing the counterbalancing effect while maintaining display positioning comfort.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the center of mass is arranged above the head-neck pivot joint, then the display unit can be supported in an upright position, but head tilting forward increases the moment arm and amplifies forward torque
Solution Approach 1:
The balancing mass is configured to move in response to head tilting motion. As the user tilts their head forward, the balancing mass adjusts its position to maintain an effective counterbalancing moment, compensating for the increased moment arm effect and reducing the amplified torque during dynamic usage.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable balancing mass provides preliminary counterbalancing action by anticipating and opposing the torque changes that occur during head tilting. The system is designed to automatically adjust the counterbalancing moment as tilting begins, rather than requiring corrective action after torque has already increased.
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 adjustment significantly reduces the forward torque induced by the head-mounted display, minimizing user discomfort and fatigue by maintaining stability with less muscular effort, especially during prolonged use.
Implementation Method 1
the head-mounted display induces a forward torque thereabout... forward tilting of the head may increase the forward torque induced by the head-mounted display... movable balancing mass that shifts relative to the display unit to offset changes in torque
Implementation Method 2
center of gravity of the head-mounted display is typically arranged forward of and above a head-neck pivot joint... center of mass being arranged forward of the head-neck pivot joint... center of mass moves further away from the head-neck pivot joint
Data Source
AI summary
A head-mounted display includes a display unit, a head support, and a balancing mass. The display unit displays graphical content to a user. The head support is coupled to the display to support the display unit on a head of the user for displaying the graphical content thereto. The balancing mass is movable relative to the display unit to offset changes in torque induced by the display unit when tilting the head-mounted display.