Patent Application
20230152594
The present technology relates generally to head mounted displays, positioning and stabilizing structures, user interfacing structures, and other components for use in head mounted displays, associated head-mounted display assemblies and systems including a display unit and positioning and stabilizing structure, interfacing structures and or components, and methods. The present technology finds particular application in the use of immersive reality head mounted displays and is herein described in that context. It is to be appreciated that the present technology may have broader application and may be used in any type of head-mounted display arrangement including, but not limited to, virtual reality displays, augmented reality displays, and/or mixed reality displays.
It is to be understood that, if any prior art is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the prior art forms a part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.
An immersive technology refers to technology that attempts to replicate or augment a physical environment through the means of a digital or virtual environment by creating a surrounding sensory feeling, thereby creating a sense of immersion.
In particular, an immersive technology provides the user visual immersion, and creates virtual objects and/or a virtual environment. The immersive technology may also provide immersion for at least one of the other five senses.
Virtual reality (VR) is a computer-generated three-dimensional image or environment that is presented to a user. In other words, the environment may be entirely virtual. Specifically, the user observes an electronic screen in order to observe virtual or computer generated images in a virtual environment. Since the created environment is entirely virtual, the user may be blocked and/or obstructed from interacting with their physical environment (e.g., they may be unable to hear and/or see the physical objects in the physical environment that they are currently located).
The electronic screen may be supported in the user's line of sight (e.g., mounted to the user's head). While observing the electronic screen, visual feedback output by the electronic screen and observed by the user may produce a virtual environment intended to simulate an actual environment. For example, the user may be able to look around (e.g., 360°) by pivoting their head or their entire body, and interact with virtual objects observable by the user through the electronic screen. This may provide the user with an immersive experience where the virtual environment provides stimuli to at least one of the user's five senses, and replaces the corresponding stimuli of the physical environment while the user uses the VR device. Typically, the stimuli relates at least to the user's sense of sight (i.e., because they are viewing an electronic screen), but other senses may also be included. The electronic screens are typically mounted to the user's head so that they may be positioned in close proximity to the user's eyes, which allows the user to easily observe the virtual environment.
The VR device may produce other forms of feedback in addition to, or aside from, visual feedback. For example, the VR device may include and/or be connected to a speaker in order to provide auditory feedback. The VR device may also include tactile feedback (e.g., in the form of haptic response), which may correspond to the visual and/or auditory feedback. This may create a more immersive virtual environment, because the user receives stimuli corresponding to more than one of the user's senses.
While using a VR device, a user may wish to limit to block ambient stimulation. For example, the user may want to avoid seeing and/or hearing the ambient environment in order to better process stimuli from the VR device in the virtual environment. Thus, VR devices may limit and/or prevent the user's eyes from receiving ambient light. In some examples, this may be done by providing a seal against the user's face. In some examples, a shield may be disposed proximate to (e.g., in contact or close contact with) the user's face, but may not seal against the user's face. In either example, ambient light may not reach the user's eyes, so that the only light observable by the user is from the electronic screen.
In other examples, the VR devices may limit and/or prevent the user's ears from hearing ambient noise. In some examples, this may be done by providing the user with headphones (e.g., noise cancelling headphones), which may output sounds from the VR device and/or limit the user from hearing noises from their physical environment. In some examples, the VR device may output sounds at a volume sufficient to limit the user from hearing ambient noise.
In any example, the user may not want to become overstimulated (e.g., by both their physical environment and the virtual environment). Therefore, blocking and/or limiting the ambient from stimulating the user assists the user in focusing on the virtual environment, without possible distractions from the ambient.
Different types of VR devices are described below. Generally, a single VR device may include at least two different classifications. For example, the VR device may be classified by its portability and by how the display unit is coupled to the rest of the interface. These classifications may be independent, so that classification in one group (e.g., the portability of the unit) does not predetermine classification into another group. There may also be additional categories to classify VR devices, which are not explicitly listed below.
In some forms, a VR device may be used in conjunction with a separate device, like a computer or video game console. This type of VR device may be fixed, since it cannot be used without the computer or video game console, and thus locations where it can be used are limited (e.g., by the location of the computer or video game console).
Since the VR device can be used in conjunction with the computer or video game console, the VR device may be connected to the computer or video game console. For example, an electrical cord may tether the two systems together. This may further “fix” the location of the VR device, since the user wearing the VR device cannot move further from the computer or video game console than the length of the electrical cord. In other examples, the VR device may be wirelessly connected (e.g., via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc.), but may still be relatively fixed by the strength of the wireless signal.
The connection to the computer or video game console may provide control functions to the VR device. The controls may be communicated (i.e., through a wired connector or wirelessly) in order to help operate the VR device. In examples of a fixed unit VR device, these controls may be necessary in order to operate the display screen, and the VR device may not be operable without the connection to the computer or video game console.
In some forms, the computer or video game console may provide electrical power to the VR device, so that the user does not need to support a battery on their head. This may make the VR device more comfortable to wear, since the user does not need to support the weight of a battery.
The user may also receive outputs from the computer or video game console at least partially through the VR device, as opposed to through a television or monitor, which may provide the user with a more immersive experience while using the computer or video game console (e.g., playing a video game). In other words, the display output of the VR device may be substantially the same as the output from a computer monitor or television. Some controls and/or sensors necessary to output these images may be housed in the computer or video game console, which may further reduce the weight that the user is required to support on their body.
In some forms, movement sensors may be positioned remote from the VR device, and connected to the computer or video game console. For example, at least one camera may face the user in order to track movements of the user's head. The processing of the data recorded by the camera(s) may be done by the computer or video game console, before being transmitted to the VR device. While this may assist in weight reduction of the VR device, it may also further limit where the VR device can be used. In other words, the VR device must be in the sight line of the camera(s).
In some forms, the VR device may be a self-contained unit, which includes a power source and sensors, so that the VR device does not need to be connected to a computer or video game console. This provides the user more freedom of use and movement. For example, the user is not limited to using the VR device near a computer or video game console, and could use the VR device outdoors, or in other environments that do not include computers or televisions.
Since the VR device is not connected to a computer or video game console in use, the VR device is required to support all necessary electronic components. This includes batteries, sensors, and processors. These components add weight to the VR device, which the user must support on their body. Appropriate weight distribution may be needed so that this added weight does not increase discomfort to a user wearing the VR device.
In some forms, the electrical components of the VR device are contained in a single housing, which may be disposed directly in front of the user's face, in use. This configuration may be referred to as a “brick.” In this configuration, the center of gravity of the VR device without the positioning and stabilizing structure is directly in front of the user's face. In order to oppose the moment created by the force of gravity, the positioning and stabilizing structure coupled to the brick configuration must provide a force directed into the user's face, for example created by tension in headgear straps. While the brick configuration may be beneficial for manufacturing (e.g., since all electrical components are in close proximity) and may allow interchangeability of positioning and stabilizing structures (e.g., because they include no electrical connections), the force necessary to maintain the position of the VR device (e.g. tensile forces in headgear) may be uncomfortable to the user. Specifically, the VR device may dig into the user's face, leading to irritation and markings on the user's skin. The combination of forces may feel like “clamping” as the user's head receives force from the display housing on their face and force from headgear on the back of their head. This may make a user less likely to wear the VR device.
As VR and other mixed reality devices may be used in a manner involving vigorous movement of the user's head and/or their entire body (for example during gaming), there may be significant forces/moments tending to disrupt the position of the device on the user's head. Simply forcing the device more tightly against the user's head to tolerate large disruptive forces may not be acceptable as it may be uncomfortable for the user or become uncomfortable after only a short period of time.
In some forms, electrical components may be spaced apart throughout the VR device, instead of entirely in front of the user's face. For example, some electrical components (e.g., the battery) may be disposed on the positioning and stabilizing structure, particularly on a posterior contacting portion. In this way, the weight of the battery (or other electrical components) may create a moment directed in the opposite direction from the moment created by the remainder of the VR device (e.g., the display). Thus, it may be sufficient for the positioning and stabilizing structure to apply a lower clamping force, which in turn creates a lower force against the user's face (e.g., fewer marks on their skin). However, cleaning and/or replacing the positioning and stabilizing structure may be more difficult in some such existing devices because of the electrical connections.
In some forms, spacing the electrical components apart may involve positioning some of the electrical components separate from the rest of the VR device. For example, a battery and/or a processor may be electrically connected, but carried separately from the rest of the VR device. Unlike in the “fixed units” described above, the battery and/or processor may be portable, along with the remainder of the VR device. For example, the battery and/or the processor may be carried on the user's belt or in the user's pocket. This may provide the benefit of reduced weight on the user's head, but would not provide a counteracting moment. The tensile force provided by the positioning and stabilizing structure may still be less than the “brick” configuration, since the total weight supported by the head is less.
In some forms, the display screen is an integral piece of the VR device, and generally cannot be detached or removed from the rest of the VR device.
The display screen may be fixed within a housing, and protected from damage. For example, the display screen may be completely covered by the housing, which may reduce the occurrence of scratches. Additionally, integrating display screen with the rest of the VR device eliminates the occurrence of losing the display screen.
In these forms, the display screen functions purely as an immersive technology display. The vast majority of “fixed units” will include an integrated display screen. “Portable units” may include an integrated display screen, or may include a removable display screen (described below).
In some forms, the display screen is a separate structure that can be removed from the VR device, and used separately.
In some forms, a portable electronic device (e.g., a cell phone) may be selectively inserted into a housing of the VR device. The portable electronic device may include most or all of the sensors and/or processors, and may create a virtual environment through a downloadable app.
Portable electronic devices are generally light weight, and may not require the positioning and stabilizing structure to apply a large force to the user's head.
In some forms, augmented reality (AR) is a computer-generated three-dimensional image or environment that is presented to a user.
While similar to VR, AR differs in that the virtual environment created at least in part by the electronic screen is observed in combination with the user's physical environment. In other words, AR creates virtual objects in order to alter and/or enhance the user's physical environment with elements of a virtual environment. The result of AR is a combined environment that includes physical and virtual objects, and therefore an environment that is both physical and virtual.
For example, images created by the electronic screen may be overlayed into the user's physical environment. Only a portion of an AR combination environment presented to the user includes is virtual. Thus, the user may wish to continue to receive ambient stimulation from their physical environment while using an AR device (e.g., in order to continue to observe the physical or non-virtual component of the combination environment).
Since AR may be used with the user's physical environment, an AR device may not be electrically connected, or otherwise tethered, to a computer or video game console. Instead the AR device may include a battery, or other power source. This may provide the user with the greatest freedom of movement, so that they can explore a variety of physical environments while using the AR device.
This key difference between VR and AR may lead to different types of wearable electronic screens. As described above, a user of a VR device may wish to block ambient light, so the housing of the electronic screen may be opaque in order to limit or prevent ambient light from reaching the user. However, the user of an AR device may want to see the virtual environment blended with their actual environment. The electronic screen in an AR device may be similarly supported in front of the user's eyes, but, screens in AR devices may be transparent or translucent, and the screens may not be supported by an opaque housing (or opaque material may not substantially obstruct the user's line of sight). This may allow the user to continue receiving ambient stimulation, where the virtual environment is simultaneously present. Notwithstanding, some VR devices that do not have a transparent screen through which the user can see their real world surroundings may be configurable for AR by acquiring real-time video of the user's real-world surroundings from the user's perspective (e.g. with cameras on the display housing) and displaying it on the display screen.
Additionally, a person using an AR device may be more mobile than a person using a VR device (e.g., because an AR user can see their physical environment and/or are not tethered to a computer or video game console). Thus, a person using an AR device may wish to wear the device for an extended period of time, while also moving around (e.g., walking, running, biking, etc.). Including components, like batteries, on the AR device may make the AR device uncomfortable for the user's head and/or neck, and may discourage the user from wearing the AR device for long periods of time.
Mixed reality (MR) is similar to AR but may be more immersive because the MR device may provide the user more ways to interact with virtual objects or environment than an AR device. The virtual reality in MR may also be overlayed and/or blended with the user's physical environment. Unlike AR however, a user may be able to interact with the virtual environment akin to what occurs in VR. In other words, while AR may present only an computer generated image in the physical environment, MR may present the user with the same or similar computer generated image but allow for interaction with the image in the physical environment (e.g., using a hand to “grab” an object produced virtually). Thus, the virtual environment may further merge with a physical environment so that the combined environment better replicates an actual environment.
A head-mounted display interface enables a user to have an immersive experience of a virtual environment and have broad application in fields such as communications, training, medical and surgical practice, engineering, and video gaming.
Different head-mounted display interfaces can each provide a different level of immersion. For example, some head-mounted display interfaces can provide the user with a total immersive experience. One example of a total immersive experience is virtual reality (VR). The head-mounted display interface can also provide partial immersion consistent with using an AR device.
VR head-mounted display interfaces typically are provided as a system that includes a display unit which is arranged to be held in an operational position in front of a user's face. The display unit typically includes a housing containing a display and a user interface structure constructed and arranged to be in opposing relation with the user's face. The user interface structure may extend about the display and define, in conjunction with the housing, a viewing opening to the display. The user interfacing structure may engage with the face and include a cushion for user comfort and/or be light sealing to block ambient light from the display. The head-mounted display system further comprises a positioning and stabilizing structure that is disposed on the user's head to maintain the display unit in position.
Other head-mounted display interfaces can provide a less than total immersive experience. In other words, the user can experience elements of their physical environment, as well as a virtual environment. Examples of a less than total immersive experience are augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR).
AR and/or MR head-mounted display interfaces are also typically provided as a system that includes a display unit which is arranged to be held in an operational position in front of a user's face. Likewise, the display unit typically includes a housing containing a display and a user interface structure constructed and arranged to be in opposing relation with the user's face. The head-mounted display system of the AR and/or MR head-mounted display is also similar to VR in that it further comprises a positioning and stabilizing structure that is disposed on the user's head to maintain the display unit in position. However, AR and/or MR head-mounted displays do not include a cushion that totally seals ambient light from the display, since these less than total immersive experience require an element of the physical environment. Instead, head-mounted displays in augmented and/or mixed allow the user to see the physical environment in combination with the virtual environment.
In any types of immersive technology, it is important that the head-mounted display interface is comfortable in order to allow the user to wear the head-mounted display for extended periods of time. Additionally, it is important that the display is able to provide changing images with changing position and/or orientation of the user's head in order to create an environment, whether partially or entirely virtual, that is similar to or replicates one that is entirely physical.
The head-mounted displays may include a user interfacing structure. Since it is in direct contact with the user's face, the shape and configuration of the interfacing portion can have a direct impact on the effectiveness and comfort of the display unit.
The design of a user interfacing structure presents a number of challenges. The face has a complex three-dimensional shape. The size and shape of noses and heads varies considerably between individuals. Since the head includes bone, cartilage and soft tissue, different regions of the face respond differently to mechanical forces.
One type of interfacing structure extends around the periphery of the display unit and is intended to seal against the user's face when force is applied to the user interface with the interfacing structure in confronting engagement with the user's face. The interfacing structure may include a pad made of a polyurethane (PU). With this type of interfacing structure, there may be gaps between the interfacing structure and the face, and additional force may be required to force the display unit against the face in order to achieve the desired contact.
The regions not engaged at all by the user interface may allow gaps to form between the facial interface and the user's face through which undesirable light pollution may ingress into the display unit (e.g., particularly when using virtual reality). The light pollution or “light leak” may decrease the efficacy and enjoyment of the overall immersive experience for the user. In addition, previous systems may be difficult to adjust to enable application for a wide variety of head sizes. Further still, the display unit and associated stabilizing structure may often be relatively heavy and may be difficult to clean which may thus further limit the comfort and useability of the system.
Another type of interfacing structure incorporates a flap seal of thin material positioned about a portion of the periphery of the display unit so as to provide a sealing action against the face of the user. Like the previous style of interfacing structure, if the match between the face and the interfacing structure is not good, additional force may be required to achieve a seal, or light may leak into the display unit in-use. Furthermore, if the shape of the interfacing structure does not match that of the user, it may crease or buckle in-use, giving rise to undesirable light penetration.
A user interface may be partly characterised according to the design intent of where the interfacing structure is to engage with the face in-use. Some interfacing structures may be limited to engaging with regions of the user's face that protrude beyond the arc of curvature of the face engaging surface of the interfacing structure. These regions may typically include the user's forehead and cheek bones. This may result in user discomfort at localised stress points. Other facial regions may not be engaged at all by the interfacing structure or may only be engaged in a negligible manner that may thus be insufficient to increase the translation distance of the clamping pressure. These regions may typically include the sides of the user's face, or the region adjacent and surrounding the users nose. To the extent to which there is a mismatch between the shape of the users' face and the interfacing structure, it is advantageous for the interfacing structure or a related component to be adaptable in order for an appropriate contact or other relationship to form.
To hold the display unit in its correct operational position, the head-mounted display system further comprises a positioning and stabilizing structure that is disposed on the user's head. These structures may be responsible for providing forces to counter gravitational forces of the head-mounted display and/or interfacing structure. In the past these structures have been formed from expandable rigid structures that are typically applied to the head under tension to maintain the display unit in its operational position. Such systems have been prone to exert a clamping pressure on the user's face which can result in user discomfort at localised stress points. Also, previous systems may be difficult to adjust to allow wide application head sizes. Further, the display unit and associated stabilizing structure are often heavy, difficult to clean which further limit the comfort and useability of the system.
Certain other head mounted display systems may be functionally unsuitable for the present field. For example, positioning and stabilizing structures designed for ornamental and visual aesthetics may not have the structural capabilities to maintain a suitable pressure around the face. For example, an excess of clamping pressure may cause discomfort to the user, or alternatively, insufficient clamping pressure on the users' face may not effectively seal the display from ambient light.
Certain other head mounted display systems may be uncomfortable or impractical for the present technology. For example, if the system is used for prolonged time periods.
As a consequence of these challenges, some head mounted displays suffer from being one or more of obtrusive, aesthetically undesirable, costly, poorly fitting, difficult to use, and uncomfortable especially when worn for long periods of time or when a user is unfamiliar with a system. Wrongly sized positioning and stabilizing structures can give rise reduced comfort and in turn, shortened periods of use.
Therefore, an interfacing portion of a user interface used for the fully immersive experience of a virtual environment are subject to forces corresponding to the movement of a user during the experience.
Materials used in head mounted display assemblies have included dense foams for contacting portions in the interfacing structures, rigid shells for the housings, and positioning and stabilizing structures formed from rigid plastic clamping structures. These materials have various drawbacks including not permitting the skin covered by the material to breath, being inflexible, difficult to clean and to prone trapping bacteria. As a result, products made with such material may be uncomfortable to wear for extended periods of time, causes skin irritation in some individuals and limit the application of the products.
The present technology may be directed toward providing positioning and stabilizing structures used in the supporting, stabilizing, mounting, utilizing, and/or securing of a head-mounted display having one or more of improved comfort, cost, efficacy, ease of use and manufacturability.
A first aspect of the present technology relates to apparatuses used in the supporting, stabilizing, mounting, utilizing, and/or securing of a head-mounted display.
Another aspect of the present technology relates to methods used in the supporting, stabilizing, mounting, utilizing, and/or securing of a head-mounted display.
3.1 Head-Mounted Display System with Lateral Strap Portions and Parietal and Occipital Strap Portions
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system comprising:
In some examples, the head-mounted display system comprises a top strap portion configured to overlie a superior portion of the user's head in use. In some examples the top strap portion is configured to connect between the battery pack and the head-mounted display unit.
In examples: (a) the position of the parietal strap portion is moveable with respect to the top strap portion in an anterior direction and a posterior direction; (b) an angle between the parietal strap portion and the occipital strap portion is able to be adjusted by the user; (c) the parietal strap portion lies underneath the top strap portion; (d) the top strap portion passes through a buckle connected to the parietal strap portion, the buckle configured to limit lateral movement of the top strap portion; and/or (e) the buckle is located in the sagittal plane of the user's head in use.
In further examples: (a) the top strap portion is connected to the occipital strap portion; (b) the top strap portion is adjustable in length between the head-mounted display unit and the battery; (c) the top strap portion is connected to the head-mounted display unit through an eyelet connected to the head-mounted display unit and looped back and secured to itself; (d) an outer layer of the top strap portion is configured to be passed through the eyelet and looped back and secured to itself; (e) A user-facing layer does not pass through the eyelet; (f) the top strap portion comprises a textile user-facing layer, a textile outer layer and a substantially inextensible layer between the user-facing layer and the outer layer; (g) a user-facing layer of the top strap portion is configured to be passed through the eyelet and looped back and secured to itself; (h) the top strap portion is substantially inextensible; (i) the top strap portion comprises a layered construction; (j) the top strap portion comprises a substantially inextensible layer; (k) an anterior end of the substantially inextensible layer is spaced along the length of the top strap portion from the head-mounted display unit; (l) the top strap portion comprises a textile user-facing layer; (m) the top strap portion comprises a textile outer layer; (n) the top strap portion comprises a power cable connecting the battery pack to the head-mounted display unit to provide power from the battery to the head-mounted display unit in use; (o) the power cable is internal to the top strap portion; (p) the power cable is insertable through an interior of the top strap portion by the user; and/or (q) the power cable is insertable through the top strap portion between the substantially inextensible layer and the textile outer layer.
In further examples: (a) the top strap portion comprises an anterior portion and a posterior portion, the posterior portion being configured to engage the user's head in use, and the anterior portion being configured to not engage the user's head in use; (b) the top strap portion comprises a shape having a bend between the posterior portion of the top strap portion and the anterior portion of the top strap portion; (c) the top strap portion is shaped to follow a curvature of the user's head in the posterior portion of the top strap portion and deviate from the curvature of the user's head in the anterior portion of the top strap portion; (d) the top strap portion is rigidised to support the anterior portion in spaced relation to the user's head in use; (e) the anterior portion of the top strap portion curves inferiorly towards the head-mounted display unit; (f) the anterior portion of the top strap portion extends in a partially superior direction from the posterior portion of the top strap portion; (g) the anterior portion of the top strap portion is connected to the posterior portion of the top strap portion at an anterior end of the posterior portion, the anterior end of the posterior portion being located posteriorly to a fringe region of the user's head; (h) the anterior end of the posterior portion of the top strap portion is located posteriorly of the frontal bone of the user's head in use; (i) the anterior end of the posterior portion of the top strap portion is located proximate a coronal plane of the user in use, the coronal plane aligned with each otobasion superior of the user; (j) the anterior end of the posterior portion of the top strap portion is located posteriorly of the coronal plane in use; and/or (k) the anterior end of the posterior portion of the top strap portion is located proximate the parietal strap portion in use.
In further examples: (a) the battery pack is connected to the top strap portion at a superior location and an inferior location; (b) the battery pack is removably connected to the top strap portion; (c) the battery pack is connected to the top strap portion by a hook-and-loop connection; (d) the inferior location is at or proximate the occipital strap portion; (e) the inferior location is spaced from the occipital strap portion to allow the top strap portion to deform between the inferior location and the occipital strap portion; (f) the battery pack is connected to the top strap portion at a superior side of the battery pack and is connected to the occipital strap portion at an inferior side of the battery pack; (g) the battery pack is connected to the occipital strap portion by an inferior battery pack strap portion; (h) the battery pack comprises a battery pack housing and a plurality of cells contained within the housing; (i) the cells are spaced equidistantly in the battery pack housing from an anterior wall of the battery pack housing; (j) one of more of the cells are spaced further from an anterior wall of the battery pack housing than another one or more of the cells; (k) each of plurality of cells are spaced from an anterior wall of the battery pack housing; (l) the battery pack housing contains a counterweight configured to contribute to a balance of weight between the battery pack and the head-mounted display unit; (m) the battery pack housing is spaced from a posterior surface of the user's head; and/or (n) the head-mounted display system comprises a pad configured to contact a posterior surface of the user's head, the battery pack housing being spaced from the posterior surface of the user's head by the pad.
In further examples: (a) the positioning and stabilising structure is configured to hold the battery pack in a vertical orientation in use; (b) the battery pack has a length, a width and a depth, the length being longer than the width and the depth; (c) the positioning and stabilising structure is configured to hold the battery pack in an orientation in which the length of the battery pack is aligned substantially vertically in use; and/or (d) the length of the battery pack is aligned with the sagittal plane of the user's head in use.
In further examples: (a) the parietal strap portion is configured to overlie a region of the user's head in use at or proximate a junction between the parietal bones and the occipital bone; (b) the parietal strap portion and the lateral strap portions are configured to lie in a common plane in use; (c) the positioning and stabilising structure is configured to hold the battery pack in a horizontal orientation in use; (d) the battery pack has a length, a width and a depth, the length being longer than the width and the depth; (e) the positioning and stabilising structure is configured to hold the battery pack in an orientation in which the length of the battery pack is aligned substantially horizontally in use; (f) the length of the battery pack is aligned parallel to the parietal strap portion in use; and/or (g) the battery pack is connected to the parietal strap portion.
In further examples: (a) the battery pack is supported by the top strap portion and/or the parietal strap portion; (b) the head-mounted display system comprises an opening aligned in the sagittal plane of the user's head in use between the battery pack and the occipital strap portion; (c) the head-mounted display system is configured to allow hair of the user to pass through the opening; (d) the occipital strap portion is formed in two portions each located on a respective lateral side of the sagittal plane of the user's head in use; (e) the two portions of the occipital strap portion are releasably attachable to each other at a pair of connection points, each connection point provided to a respective one of the two portions of the occipital strap portion; (f) each connection point is located at or proximate the sagittal plane of the user's head in use when the two portions of the occipital strap portion are connected to each other; (g) the connection points are spaced laterally of the sagittal plane in use when the two portions of the occipital strap portion are connected to each other; (h) the head-mounted display system comprises two battery packs, each battery pack supported on to a respective one of the two portions of the occipital strap portion; (i) the battery packs are spaced apart in use to allow the two portions of the occipital strap portion to connect to each other at or proximate the sagittal plane of the user's head in use; (j) the occipital strap portion is formed in two portions each located on a respective lateral side of the sagittal plane of the user's head in use, wherein the two portions of the occipital strap portion are not connected to each other in use, wherein medial ends of the two portions of the occipital strap portion are spaced apart from each other and are each spaced laterally from the sagittal plane in use; (k) the head-mounted display system comprises two battery packs, each battery pack provided to a respective one of the two portions of the occipital strap portion; (l) the positioning and stabilising structure is configured to hold the battery pack in a location overlying the occipital bone of the user's head in use; and/or (m) the positioning and stabilising structure is configured to hold the battery pack in a location proximate the occipital bone of the user′ head and at or proximate a vertical axis of rotation of the user's head.
In further examples: (a) a portion of the power cable is located within the battery pack and is able to be extended from and retracted into the battery pack; (b) one or more layers of the top strap portion are partially located within the battery pack and are able to be extended from and retracted into the battery pack together with the power cable; (c) an outer layer of the top strap portion is located within the battery pack and is able to be extended from and retracted into the battery pack together with the power cable; (d) a substantially inextensible layer of the top strap portion is located within the battery pack and is able to be extended from and retracted into the battery pack together with the power cable (e) a user contacting layer of the top strap portion is located between the battery pack and the user's head; (f) the portion of the power cable located within the battery pack and the one or more layers of the top strap portion partially located within the battery pack form a retractable portion of the top strap portion able to be extended from and retracted into the battery pack to adjust a length of the top strap portion between the battery pack and the head-mounted display unit; (g) the retractable portion is able to be selectively moved between a plurality of predetermined positions with respect to the battery pack at which the position of the retractable portion is able to be fixed with respect to the battery pack; and/or (h) the retractable portion is able to move continuously within a range of positions with respect to the battery pack.
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Another aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning and stabilising structure configured to hold a head-mounted display unit in an operable position on a user's head in use, the positioning and stabilizing structure comprising:
In examples:
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning and stabilising structure configured to hold a head-mounted display unit in an operable position on a user's head in use, the positioning and stabilizing structure comprising:
In examples:
The top strap portion is shaped to follow a curvature of the user's head in the posterior portion of the top strap portion and deviate from the curvature of the user's head in the anterior portion of the top strap portion;
In further examples:
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system comprising:
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, comprising:
In examples:
A head-mounted display system, comprising:
a head-mounted display unit; and
a positioning and stabilising structure structured and arranged to hold the head-mounted display unit in an operational position over a user's face in use, the head-mounted display unit comprising an interfacing structure constructed and arranged to be in opposing relation with the user's face,
wherein the interfacing structure comprises a resilient and flexible face engaging portion having a curved cross-section,
wherein the face engaging portion comprises an anterior portion extending in a radially outward posterior direction, curving around into a posterior portion extending in a radially inward posterior direction, wherein a posterior facing surface of the posterior portion provides a user contact surface.
Another aspect of the present technology relates to an interfacing structure for a head-mounted display unit constructed and arranged to be in opposing relation with a user's face, the interfacing structure comprising a resilient and flexible face engaging portion having a curved cross-section, wherein the face engaging portion comprises an anterior portion extending in a radially outward posterior direction, curving around into a posterior portion extending in a radially inward posterior direction, wherein a posterior facing surface of the posterior portion provides a user contact surface.
Another aspect of the present technology relates to an interfacing structure for a head-mounted display unit constructed and arranged to be in opposing relation with a user's face, the interfacing structure comprising a resilient and flexible face engaging portion having a curved cross-section, wherein the face engaging portion comprises an anterior portion extending in a radially outward posterior
In examples: (a) the face engaging portion is configured such that the posterior portion is biased towards engagement with the user's face, in use; (b) the face engaging portion comprises at least one closed loop portion having an enclosed cross-section; (c) the face engaging portion comprises a first closed loop portion and a second closed loop portion; (d) the first closed loop portion and the second closed loop portion are provided on respective sides of the user's nose in use; (e) the first closed loop portion and the second closed loop portion are provided proximate the user's cheeks in use; (f) the face engaging portion bends around and overlaps itself to provide the at least one closed loop portion; (g) the face engaging portion comprises a base portion and a loop portion comprising a loop flange, wherein the loop flange overlaps the base portion to provide the closed loop portion; (h) the loop portion extends from an anterior position to a posterior position; (i) a cross-section of the loop portion tapers off between the anterior position and the posterior position; (j) the loop portion includes an arcuate portion between the anterior position and the loop flange; (k) the loop flange overlaps an anterior facing surface of the base portion; (l) the loop flange is secured to the base portion; (m) the base portion and the loop portion are integrally formed as a single component; (n) the interfacing structure comprises a light-blocking nasal portion spanning between cheek portions of the face engaging portion, wherein the light-blocking nasal portion comprises a pronasale portion extending radially and in a superior direction over the pronasale of the user's nose, wherein the light-blocking nasal portion further comprises a first bridge portion and a second bridge portion extending in a superior direction from the pronasal portion, the first bridge portion and the second bridge portion having a slot therebetween, the slot extending from a posterior edge of the light-blocking nasal portion towards the pronasale portion, and wherein the first bridge portion and the second bridge portion are configured to rest on respective sides of the user's nose bridge in use; (o) the interfacing structure comprises a foam cushion, wherein the posterior portion extends over the foam cushion; (p) the face engaging portion comprises a cushion support flange extending from a radially inwardly facing surface of the face engaging portion; (q) the foam cushion is provided between the cushion support flange and the posterior portion; (r) the face engaging portion comprises a plurality of regions, each of the plurality of regions having a respective cross-sectional thickness; (s) the face engaging portion comprises a forehead portion, two cheek portions, and two side portions proximate the user's sphenoid regions in use and connecting the forehead portion to the respective cheek portions; (t) the plurality of regions of the face engaging portion comprises: a first region extending around the inner periphery of the face engaging portion; a second region extending around the outer periphery of the face engaging portion; a third region extending around the inner periphery of the face engaging portion, positioned between the first region and the second region; fourth regions in each cheek portion, bounded by the first region and the third region; (u) the first region comprises a posterior forehead portion in the forehead portion, extending in a superior direction from the inner periphery of the face engaging portion; (v) the third region comprises a superior forehead portion in the forehead portion, extending over the centre of the forehead portion into an anterior forehead portion; (w) the second region comprises superior lateral portions, each extending from a respective side portion towards the superior forehead portion; (x) the second region comprises an outer periphery forehead portion; (y) the first region has a greater thickness than the fourth regions; (z) the fourth regions have a greater thickness than the third region; (aa) the third region has a greater thickness than the second region; (ab) a width of the first region in an anterior-posterior direction is greater through the forehead portion than at the cheek portions or the side portions; and/or (ac) a width of the second region in an anterior-posterior direction is greater through the forehead portion than at the cheek portions.
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, comprising:
Another aspect of the present technology relates to an interfacing structure for a head-mounted display unit constructed and arranged to be in opposing relation with a user's face, the interfacing structure comprising a rigid support portion and a flexible and resilient face engaging portion provided to the rigid support portion, wherein the face engaging portion has a curved cross-section.
In examples: (a) the face engaging portion comprises a support flange and an integral face engaging flange having a face engaging surface; (b) an overlapping portion of the face engaging portion is secured to the rigid support portion; (c) the rigid support portion comprises a locating portion; (d) the face engaging portion comprises a biasing portion configured to provide a biasing force to the face engaging portion in the direction of the user's face; (e) the biasing portion comprises a spring; (f) the biasing portion is received within the locating portion; and/or (g) the face engaging portion comprises a concertina section between the rigid support portion and the face engaging flange.
In further examples: (a) he interfacing structure comprises a foam portion supported by the resilient and flexible face engaging portion, wherein the foam portion provides the face engaging surface; (b) the foam portion is permanently attached to the face engaging flange; (c) the foam portion is releasably attached to the face engaging flange; and/or (d) the foam cushion comprises one of a textile-foam composite, a flocked foam, or a raw foam.
In further examples: (a) the interfacing structure comprises a textile layer provided to the resilient and flexible face engaging portion, wherein the textile layer provides the face engaging surface; (b) the textile layer is releasably attached to the face engaging portion; and/or (c) the textile layer is permanently attached to the face engaging portion.
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, comprising:
Another aspect of the present technology relates to an interfacing structure for a head-mounted display unit constructed and arranged to be in opposing relation with a user's face, the interfacing structure comprising a face engaging portion supported by a more rigid support portion, wherein the face engaging portion comprises a foam cushion and an elastomeric cover over the foam cushion.
In examples: (a) he face engaging portion comprises a support flange, and a cushion support flange extending from the support flange; (b) the foam cushion is provided on the cushion support flange; (c) the cushion cover is releasably attached to the interfacing structure; (d) the cushion cover is permanently attached to the interfacing structure; he cushion cover is integrally formed with the support flange and cushion support flange (for example, being integrally formed); (e) the cushion cover does not extend around the foam cushion so far as to reach the cushion support flange; (f) the cushion support flange extends from the rigid support portion, and is made of a more rigid material than the cushion cover; (g) the cushion cover extends from a position on the cushion support flange proximal to the user's face in use; (h) the face engaging portion comprises an overlapping portion secured to the rigid support portion; (i) the cushion cover overlays the foam cushion and the support flange; (j) an edge of the cushion cover sits proximal to the rigid support portion; and/or (k) the cushion cover is connected to the rigid support portion.
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, comprising:
Another aspect of the present technology relates to an interfacing structure for a head-mounted display unit constructed and arranged to be in opposing relation with a user's face, the interfacing structure comprising a support structure and a face engaging portion integrally formed as a single component comprising varying thicknesses so as to provide desired levels of rigidity and/or cushioning effect at face engaging surfaces.
In examples: (a) the interfacing structure comprises a forehead portion, two cheek portions, and two side portions proximate the user's sphenoid regions in use and connecting the forehead portion to the respective cheek portions; (b) a tab extends from a free end of each cheek portion; (c) the interfacing structure comprises a first region extending around the inner periphery of the interfacing structure; (d) the interfacing structure comprises a second region extending around the outer periphery of the interfacing structure; (e) the interfacing structure comprises a third region extending around the inner periphery of the interfacing structure, positioned between the first region and the second region; (f) the interfacing structure comprises fourth regions in each cheek portion, bounded by the first region and the third region; (g) the first region comprises a posterior forehead portion in the forehead portion, extending in a superior direction from the inner periphery of the interfacing structure; (h) the third region comprises a superior forehead portion in the forehead portion, extending over the centre of the forehead portion into an anterior forehead portion; (i) the second region comprises superior lateral portions, each extending from a respective side portion towards the superior forehead portion; (j) the second region comprises an outer periphery forehead portion; (k) the first region has a greater thickness than the fourth regions; (l) the fourth regions have a greater thickness than the third region; (m) the third region has a greater thickness than the second region; (n) the first region has a thickness of between 1.9 mm to 2.3 mm; (o) the first region has a thickness of about 2 mm; (p) the fourth regions have a thickness of between 1.4 mm to 1.8 mm; (q) the fourth regions have a thickness of about 1.5 mm; (r) the second region has a thickness of between 0.9 mm to 1.2 mm; (s) the second region has a thickness of about 1 mm; (t) the third region has a thickness of between 0.4 mm to 0.8 mm; (u) the third region has a thickness of about 0.7 mm; (v) the width of the first region is wider through the forehead portion than at the cheek portions, or side portions; and/or (w) the width of the second region is greater through the forehead portion than at the cheek portions.
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, comprising:
Another aspect of the present technology relates to an interfacing structure for a head-mounted display unit constructed and arranged to be in opposing relation with a user's face, the interfacing structure comprising a face engaging portion configured to be biased towards engagement with a user's face, in use.
In examples: (a) only selected regions of the face engaging portion are biased towards engagement with a user's face; (b) the interfacing structure is shaped such that, when unloaded, regions of the face engaging portion extend towards the user at an angle non-parallel to the surface of the user's face with which the face engaging portion is intended to engage; (c) a first interface portion corresponding to a typically recessed region of the user's face is shaped to bias a face engaging flange towards engagement with the user's face; and/or (d) a second interface portion corresponding to a typically protruding region of the user's face is shaped to avoid biasing a face engaging flange towards engagement with the user's face.
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, comprising:
Another aspect of the present technology relates to an interfacing structure for a head-mounted display unit constructed and arranged to be in opposing relation with a user's face, the interfacing structure comprising a chassis configured to permit airflow into the space between the interfacing structure and the user.
In examples: (a) the chassis comprises at least one opening; (b) the chassis comprises one or more of: a lateral opening, a superior opening, and an inferior opening; (c) the chassis comprises a main chassis portion configured to extend laterally across the user's face in use, and side chassis portions configured to extend in a generally posterior direction; (d) the chassis comprises at least one opening between the main chassis portion and each side chassis portion; (e) the head-mounted display unit comprises a display unit housing, and an air pathway is provided between the interfacing structure and the display unit housing to the at least one opening; (f) the chassis comprises reinforcing provided between the main chassis portion and each side chassis portion; (g) the chassis comprises one or more reinforcing members spanning between the main chassis portion and each side chassis portion; (h) the interfacing structure comprises a face engaging portion; and/or (i) the face engaging portion is integral with the chassis.
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system comprising:
In examples:
In further examples:
In further examples:
In further examples:
A positioning and stabilizing structure for a head-mounted display system, the positioning and stabilizing structure configured to hold a head-mounted display unit in an operable position on the user's head in use, the positioning and stabilizing structure comprising:
In examples:
Another aspect of the present technology relates to an interfacing structure for a head-mounted display unit constructed and arranged to be in opposing relation with a user's face, the interfacing structure comprising:
a chassis comprising a main chassis portion configured to extend laterally across the user's face in use, and side chassis portions configured to extend in a generally posterior direction;
a face engaging portion connected about at a periphery of the chassis, the face engaging portion configured to contact the user's face in use;
wherein each of the side chassis portions is biased medially towards the user's head to bias the face engaging portion into contact with the user's head on each side of the user's head at or proximate the user's sphenoid bone.
In examples:
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system comprising:
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system comprising:
a head-mounted display unit comprising a display and an interfacing structure, the interfacing structure comprising:
a positioning and stabilising structure configured to hold the head-mounted display unit in an operable position on the user's head in use, the positioning and stabilising structure comprising:
In examples:
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, comprising:
Another aspect of the present technology relates to an interfacing structure for a head-mounted display unit constructed and arranged to be in opposing relation with a user's face, the interfacing structure comprising a chassis and a face engaging portion, wherein at least a portion of the face engaging portion is configured to be releasably attached to the chassis.
In examples: (a) the releasably attached portion(s) of the face engaging portion may be provided at discrete locations to the chassis; (b) the releasably attached portion(s) may be provided in one or more of: a forehead region, and/or one or more cheek regions, of the interfacing structure; (c) the releasably attached portion(s) of the interfacing structure may be provided to the entire periphery of the chassis, or at least a substantial portion thereof; (d) the releasably attached portion(s) of the interfacing structure may be made of one or more of: a foam material, an elastomeric material, a textile material, and a composite material; (e) the face engaging portion of the interfacing structure may comprise at least one elastomeric portion, and at least one foam portion; (f) the at least one foam portion may be attached to the interfacing structure such that the elastomeric portion covers the foam portion to provide a face engaging surface; (g) the at least one foam portion may be attached to the chassis, the elastomeric portion, or both the chassis and the elastomeric portion; (h) a portion of the face engaging portion of the interfacing structure may be permanently attached to the chassis; and/or (i) spaces in the permanently attached portion of the face engaging portion may be provided in which the removeably attached portions may be positioned and attached relative to the chassis.
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system comprising:
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display unit therefor.
In examples:
In further examples:
In further examples:
In further examples:
In further examples:
In further examples:
In further examples:
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system comprising:
In examples:
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system comprising:
In examples:
In further examples:
In further examples:
In further examples:
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system comprising:
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display unit therefor.
In examples:
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, comprising:
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display unit therefor.
In examples:
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system comprising:
a head-mounted display unit comprising a display;
a positioning and stabilising structure configured to hold the head-mounted display unit in an operable position on the user's head in use, the positioning and stabilizing structure comprising:
In examples:
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system comprising:
In examples:
In further examples:
In further examples:
In further examples:
In further examples:
In further examples:
In further examples:
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system comprising:
In examples:
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, comprising:
Another aspect of the present technology relates to an interfacing structure for a head-mounted display unit constructed and arranged to be in opposing relation with a user's face, the interfacing structure comprising a support portion and a face engaging portion provided to the support portion, wherein the support portion comprises a first foam portion and the face engaging portion comprises a second foam portion, and wherein the first foam portion has a greater rigidity than the second foam portion.
In further examples: (a) the first foam portion and the second foam portion may be made of the same material, but at different densities; (b) the first foam portion may have a first density, and the second foam portion may have a second density lower than the first density; (c) the foam portions may be made of a viscoelastic foam or polyurethane foam; (d) the face engaging portion may comprise one of: a raw foam, a textile-foam composite, or a flocked foam; (e) the support portion may have a first support portion extending in a first direction, and a second support portion extending from the first support portion in a second direction; and/or (f) the first support portion may extend in a generally radial direction across the face of the user, while the second support portion may extend in a generally posterior direction towards the face of the user.
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, comprising:
Another aspect of the present technology relates to an interfacing structure for a head-mounted display unit constructed and arranged to be in opposing relation with a user's face, the interfacing structure comprising a support portion and a face engaging portion provided to the support portion, wherein the support portion and a face engaging portion are integrally formed as a single component, the support portion and the face engaging portion being made of a foam material.
In further examples: (a) the face engaging portion may be curved; (b) the interfacing structure may comprise a recurve transition between the support portion and the face engaging portion to produce a generally hook shaped cross-section; (c) the integral form of the support portion and the face engaging portion may be thermoformed; and/or (d) the foam material may comprise one of: a raw foam, a textile-foam composite, or a flocked foam.
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, comprising:
Another aspect of the present technology relates to an interfacing structure for a head-mounted display unit constructed and arranged to be in opposing relation with a user's face, the interfacing structure comprises a flexible and resilient face engaging portion, the face engaging portion having a curved cross-section, wherein the face engaging portion comprises at least one closed loop portion having an enclosed cross-section.
In further examples: (a) the face engaging portion comprises a first closed loop portion and a second closed loop portion; (b) the first closed loop portion and the second closed loop portion are provided on respective sides of the user's nose in use; (c) the first closed loop portion and the second closed loop portion are provided proximate the user's cheeks in use; (d) the face engaging portion bends around and overlaps itself to provide the closed loop portion; (e) the face engaging portion comprises a base portion and a loop portion comprising a loop flange, wherein the loop flange overlaps the base portion to provide the closed loop portion; (f) the loop portion extends from an anterior position to a posterior position; (g) the cross-section of the loop portion tapers off between the anterior position and the posterior position; (h) the loop portion includes an arcuate portion between the anterior position and the loop flange; (i) the loop portion includes an arcuate portion between the anterior position and the loop flange; (j) the cross-section of the arcuate tapers off between the anterior position and the loop flange; (k) the loop flange overlaps an anterior facing surface of the base portion; (l) the loop flange is secured to the base portion; (m) the base portion and the loop portion are provided as separate parts, and are secured relative to each other to provide the closed loop portion; and/or (n) the base portion and the loop portion are integrally formed as a single component.
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, comprising:
Another aspect of the present technology relates to an interfacing structure for a head-mounted display unit constructed and arranged to be in opposing relation with a user's face, wherein the interfacing structure comprises a support portion and a face engaging portion provided to the support portion,
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, comprising:
In examples: (a) the chassis catch portion comprises a catch projection; (b) the catch projection comprises a posterior facing catch surface; (c) the posterior facing catch surface is angled in a radially outward anterior direction; (d) the catch projection comprises an anterior facing guide surface; (e) the anterior facing guide surface is angled in a radially inward anterior direction from the posterior facing catch surface; (f) the chassis catch portion comprises a flange extending in an anterior direction from the catch projection; (g) the flange extends in a radially inward direction; (h) the mounting catch portion comprises an anterior facing catch surface; (i) the anterior facing catch surface is angled in a radially inward anterior direction; (j) the mounting catch portion comprises a posterior facing guide surface; (k) the mounting catch portion comprises a transition surface between the posterior facing guide surface and the anterior facing catch surface; (l) the transition surface is angled in a radially inward posterior direction from the anterior facing catch surface; (m) the angle between the transition surface and the anterior facing catch surface is acute; (n) gap is provided between the posterior facing catch surface and the anterior facing catch surface in the posterior-anterior direction, when the chassis is fully inserted into the chassis mounting portion in the anterior direction; (o) the chassis comprises a main body portion, and the chassis mounting portion comprises a chassis receiving portion configured to receive the main body portion; (p) the main body portion comprises a U channel cross-section; and/or (q) the chassis receiving portion comprises an L channel cross-section.
Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system, comprising:
In examples: (a) the interfacing structure comprises a chassis connected to the face-engaging portion, and wherein the head-mounted display unit comprises at least one airflow port through which the at least one tortuous airflow path passes, wherein the at least one airflow port is provided anterior to the connection between the chassis and the face-engaging portion; (b) the at least one airflow port comprises at least one chassis port provided in the chassis; (c) the chassis is releasably attached to a chassis mounting portion of the head-mounted display unit, wherein the at least one airflow port comprises at least one chassis mounting port provided in the chassis mounting; (d) the at least one airflow port is provided in a radially facing wall; (e) the interfacing structure comprises a flexible and resilient portion comprising the face engaging portion, and wherein the flexible and resilient portion comprises one or more interface ports through which the at least one tortuous airflow path passes; (f) the one or more interface ports of the interfacing structure are provided in at least one anterior facing portion of the flexible and resilient portion; (g) the one or more interface ports of the interfacing structure are provided in at least one of: a superior portion of the flexible and resilient portion, and an inferior portion of the flexible and resilient portion; (h) the one or more interface ports of the interfacing structure are provided in at least one side portion of the flexible and resilient portion proximate the user's sphenoid regions in use; and/or (i) the display unit housing extends in a posterior direction over the one or more interface ports of the flexible and resilient portion.
Further disclosed is a head mounted-display system including a positioning and stabilising structure and/or an interfacing structure in any form described above, and a display unit connected thereto.
Another aspect is a positioning and stabilizing structure for a head-mounted display that comprising a rear (or posterior) support structure (or portion) arranged, in use, to contact a posterior region of the user's head.
In some forms, the posterior support portion is disposed posterior of the otobasion superior of the user.
In some forms, the posterior support portion is biased into contact with the occipital region of the user.
In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure further comprises opposing connectors that are disposed on opposing sides of, and extending along the temporal regions of, the user's head to interconnect the posterior support portion to the head-mounted display unit. In some forms the positioning and stabilising structure comprises an anterior support portion connecting the posterior support portion to the head-mounted display unit.
The present technology may also be directed toward providing interfacing structures used in the supporting, cushioning, stabilizing, positioning, and/or sealing a head-mounted display in opposing relation with the user's face.
Another aspect relates to apparatuses used in the supporting, cushioning, stabilizing, positioning, and/or sealing a head-mounted display in opposing relation with the user's face.
Another aspect relates to methods used in supporting, cushioning, stabilizing, positioning, and/or sealing a head-mounted display in opposing relation with the user's face.
Another form of the present technology comprises a head mounted display system for a person comprising:
a head-mounted display unit comprising a display;
a control system for operation of the head-mounted display system; and
a positioning and stabilizing structure configured to configured to hold the head-mounted display unit anterior to a user's eyes such that the display is viewable by the user in use.
The head-mounted display system may be helmet mounted, may be configured for virtual reality display, may be configured for augmented reality display, may be configured for mixed reality display.
Another form of the present technology comprises a head-mounted display system for a person comprising:
a head-mounted display unit comprising a display;
a control system for operation of the head-mounted display system; and
a positioning and stabilizing structure comprising an anterior support portion and a posterior support portion, wherein:
In some examples: a) the head mounted display apparatus further comprises a light shield; b) the light shield is constructed and arranged to substantially obstruct in use the receipt of ambient light upon an eye region of the person; c) the light shield is configured for use in virtual reality display; d) the head-mounted display system comprises an interfacing structure constructed and arranged to contact in use an eye region of the person's face; e) the interfacing structure is constructed from foam, silicone, and/or gel; f) the interfacing structure is constructed from a light absorbing material; and/or g) the interfacing structure is configured to function as a light shield.
In some examples: a) the head mounted display apparatus further comprises a sound system; b) a left ear transducer; and/or c) a right ear transducer.
In some examples: a) the head-mounted display unit comprises a binocular display unit; and/or b) the positioning and stabilizing structure is configured to maintain the binocular display unit in an operation position in use.
In some examples: a) the control system comprises a visual display controller and at least one battery; b) the at least one battery includes a first battery and a second battery; c) the first battery is a lower power system battery configured to power an RT clock; d) the second battery is a main battery; e) a battery support configured to retain the battery; f) the battery support is connected to the positioning and stabilizing structure using a tether; g) an orientation sensor configured to sense the orientation of the person's head in use; and/or h) a control support system.
In some examples: a) the positioning and stabilising structure comprises a frontal support portion configured to contact a region overlying a frontal bone of the person's head; and/or (b) the positioning and stabilising structure comprises a length adjustment mechanism for adjusting a length of a portion of the positioning and stabilising structure.
Another form of the present technology comprises a head mounted display apparatus for a person comprising: a display unit; a light shield; a control system comprising a visual display controller, at least one battery, a battery support, an orientation sensor, and a control support system; a sound system; and a positioning and stabilizing structure comprising an anterior portion, a frontal portion, a left lateral portion, a right lateral portion, a posterior portion, and a length adjustment mechanism, wherein: the anterior portion comprises an eye cushion constructed and arranged to contact in use an eye region of the user; the posterior portion is configured to engage in use a region of the person's head adjacent to a junction between the occipital bone and the trapezius muscle; the left lateral portion is configured to interconnect the anterior portion and the posterior portion; the right lateral portion is configured to interconnect the anterior portion and the posterior portion; the frontal portion configured to interconnect the anterior portion and the posterior portion; and the length adjustment mechanism adjustable to a first position and to a second position; wherein: the display unit comprises a binocular display unit; the light shield is constructed and arranged to substantially obstruct in use the receipt of ambient light upon an eye region of the person; the orientation sensor configured to sense the orientation of the person's head in use the sound system comprises a left ear transducer and a right ear transducer; and the positioning and stabilizing structure is configured to maintain the binocular display unit in an operational position in use. The head-mounted display apparatus may comprise a positioning and stabilising structure and/or an interfacing structure substantially as described in any example disclosed herein.
Another form of the present technology comprises a head mounted display interface comprising:
an electronic display screen configured to output multiple images to a user;
a display housing configured to at least partially house the electronic display screen; and
a positioning and stabilizing structure coupled to the display housing and supporting the display housing and the electronic display screen in an operating position, the positioning and stabilizing structure being configured to provide a force against a user's head in order to counteract a moment produced by a combined weight of the electronic display screen and the display housing, and maintain a position of the electronic display screen anterior to the user's eyes while in the operating position;
wherein the positioning and stabilising structure is substantially as described in any example disclosed herein.
Another form of the present technology comprises a positioning and stabilizing structure for supporting an electronic display screen of a head-mounted display interface, the positioning and stabilizing structure being configured to provide a force against a user's head in order to counteract a moment produced by a weight of the electronic display screen, and maintain a position of the electronic display screen anterior to the user's eyes while in use, the positioning and stabilizing structure comprising:
a rear strap configured to contact a region of the user's head posterior to the coronal plane of the user's head, the rear strap configured to anchor the head-mounted display interface to the user's head.
Another form of the present technology comprises a positioning and stabilizing structure for supporting an electronic display unit, the positioning and stabilizing structure being configured to provide a force against a user's head in order to counteract a moment produced by a weight of the electronic display unit, and maintain a position of the electronic display unit anterior to the user's eyes while in use, the positioning and stabilizing structure comprising:
headgear configured to be coupled to a housing of the electronic display unit and engage the user's head in order to support the housing.
Another aspect of the present technology comprises a display interface comprising:
a display screen configured to output a computer generated image observable by a user;
a display housing at least partially supporting the display screen;
an interfacing structure coupled to the display screen and/or the display housing, the interfacing structure configured to be positioned and/or arranged to conform to at least a portion of the user's face;
a positioning and stabilizing structure configured to maintain a position of the display screen and/or the display housing relative to the user's eyes, the positioning and stabilizing structure configured to provide a force against a user's head in order to counteract a moment produced by a weight of the display screen and/or the display housing; and
a control system configured to assist in controlling the computer generated image observable by the user, the control system including at least one sensor.
Another aspect of the present technology comprises a virtual reality display interface comprising:
a display screen configured to output a computer generated image observable by a user;
a display housing at least partially supporting the display screen;
an interface structure coupled to the display housing, the interfacing structure configured to be positioned and/or arranged to conform to at least a portion of a user's face, the interface structure including a light shield configured to at least partially block ambient light from reaching the user's eyes;
a positioning and stabilizing structure coupled to the display housing and configured to provide a force against a user's head in order to counteract a moment produced by a weight of the display screen and/or the display housing, the positioning and stabilizing structure comprising,
a control system configured to assist in controlling the computer generated image observable by the user, the control system including at least one sensor configured to measure movement of the user.
In some forms, the light shield is configured to seal against the user's face and prevent ambient light from reaching the user's eyes.
In some forms, the display screen is completely enclosed within the display housing.
In some forms, the light shield is constructed from an opaque material.
In some forms, the interfacing structure is constructed from a resilient material.
In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure includes a rotational control configured to allow the display housing and/or the display interface to pivot relative to the rear support.
For example, the temporal arms may rotate with the display housing and/or the display interface. In other examples, the rotational control may couple the display housing to each of the temporal connectors, so that the display housing and/or the display interface pivots relative to the temporal connectors.
In some forms, the temporal connectors may include an adjustable length.
Another aspect of the present technology comprises an augmented reality display interface comprising:
a display screen configured to output a computer generated image observable by a user, the display screen including at least one optical lens constructed from a transparent and/or translucent material configured to allow a user to observe their physical environment while observing the computer generated image;
a display housing at least partially supporting the display screen;
an interface structure coupled to the display housing and/or the display interface, the interfacing structure configured to be positioned and/or arranged to conform to at least a portion of a user's face;
a positioning and stabilizing structure coupled to the display housing and configured to provide a force against a user's head in order to counteract a moment produced by a weight of the display screen and/or the display housing, the positioning and stabilizing structure comprising,
a control system configured to assist in controlling the computer generated image observable by the user, the control system including at least one sensor configured to measure movement of the user.
In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure further includes a rear support configured to overlay the user's occiput, each temporal connector coupled to the rear support.
In some forms, the augmented reality display interface further comprises a power source coupled to the display interface and/or to the positioning and stabilizing structure.
For example, the power source may be a rechargeable battery.
In some forms, the display screen configured to selectively output a computer generated image observable by a user.
For example, the computer generated image may be displayed on the transparent and/or translucent material. The user may be able to see observe their physical environment regardless of whether the computer generated image is displayed on the transparent and/or translucent material.
Another aspect of the present technology comprises a virtual reality display interface comprising examples of the aspects of the head-mounted display system described above.
In examples of the aspects of the head-mounted display system described above, the display unit comprises a display configured to selectively output computer generated images that are visible to the user in an operational position.
In examples of the aspects of the head-mounted display system described above, the display unit comprises a housing.
In some forms, the housing supports a display.
In examples of the aspects of the head-mounted display system described above, the display unit comprises an interfacing structure coupled to the housing and arranged to be in opposing relation with the user's face in the operational position.
In some forms, the interfacing structure at least partially forms a viewing opening configured to at least partially receive the user's face in the operational position.
In some forms, the interfacing structure being constructed at least partially from an opaque material configured to at least partially block ambient light from reaching the viewing opening in the operational position.
In examples of the aspects of the head-mounted display system described above, the display unit comprises at least one lens coupled to the housing and disposed within the viewing opening and aligned with the display so that in the operational position.
In some forms, the user can view the display through the at least one lens.
In examples of the aspects of the head-mounted display system described above, a control system having at least one sensor in communication with a processor.
In some forms, the at least one sensor configured to measure a parameter and communicate a measured value to the processor.
In some forms, the processor configured to change the computer generated images output by the display based on the measured value.
Another aspect of the present technology comprises an augmented reality display interface comprising examples of the aspects of the head-mounted display system described above.
In examples of the aspects of the head-mounted display system described above, the display unit comprises a display constructed from a transparent or translucent material and configured to selectively provide computer generated images viewable by the user.
In examples of the aspects of the head-mounted display system described above, the display unit comprises a housing.
In some forms, the housing that supports a display.
In examples of the aspects of the head-mounted display system described above, the display unit comprises an interfacing structure coupled to the housing and arranged to be in opposing relation with the user's face in the operational position.
In examples of the aspects of the head-mounted display system described above, in an operational position, the positioning and stabilizing structure configured to support the display unit.
In examples of the aspects of the head-mounted display system described above, the display configured to be aligned with the user's eyes in an operation position such that the user may at least partially view a physical environment through the display regardless of the computer generated images output by the display.
In examples of the aspects of the head-mounted display system described above, the head-mounted display system further comprising a control system having at least one sensor in communication with a processor.
In some forms, the at least one sensor configured to measure a parameter and communicate a measured value to the processor.
In some forms, the processor configured to change the computer generated images output by the display based on the measured value.
In some forms, the at least one lens includes a first lens configured to be aligned with the user's left eye in the operational position and a second lens configured to be aligned with the user's right eye in the operational position
In some forms, the first lens and the second lens are Fresnel lenses.
In some forms, the display comprises a binocular display partitioned into a first second and a second section, the first section aligned with the first lens and the second section aligned with the second lens.
In some forms, a controller having at least one button selectively engageable by a user's finger, the controller being in communication with the processor and configured to send a signal to the processor when the at least one button is engaged, the processor configured to change the computer generated images output by the display based on the signal.
In some forms, the at least one lens includes a first lens configured to be aligned with the user's left eye in the operational position and a second lens configured to be aligned with the user's right eye in the operational position.
Another aspect of one form of the present technology is a positioning and stabilizing structure that is constructed with a shape which is complementary to that of an intended wearer.
Another aspect of one form of the present technology is an interfacing structure that is constructed with a shape which is complementary to that of an intended wearer.
An aspect of one form of the present technology is a method of manufacturing apparatus.
An aspect of certain forms of the present technology is a positioning and stabilizing structure that is easy to use, e.g. by a person who has limited dexterity, vision or by a person with limited experience in using a head-mounted display.
An aspect of certain forms of the present technology is an interfacing structure that is easy to use, e.g. by a person who has limited dexterity, vision or by a person with limited experience in using a head-mounted display.
The methods, systems, devices and apparatus described may be implemented so as to improve the functionality of a head-mounted display, such as an electronic display or computer. Moreover, the described methods, systems, devices and apparatus can provide improvements in the technological field of virtual reality, augmented reality, and/or mixed reality.
Of course, portions of the aspects may form sub-aspects of the present technology. Also, various ones of the sub-aspects and/or aspects may be combined in various manners and also constitute additional aspects or sub-aspects of the present technology.
Other features of the technology will be apparent from consideration of the information contained in the following detailed description, abstract, drawings and claims.
The present technology is illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements including:
Before the present technology is described in further detail, it is to be understood that the technology is not limited to the particular examples described herein, which may vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used in this disclosure is for the purpose of describing only the particular examples discussed herein, and is not intended to be limiting.
The following description is provided in relation to various examples which may share one or more common characteristics and/or features. It is to be understood that one or more features of any one example may be combinable with one or more features of another example or other examples. In addition, any single feature or combination of features in any of the examples may constitute a further example.
In the following detailed description, reference is made to accompanying drawings which form a part of the detailed description. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, depicted in the drawings and defined in the claims, are not intended to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilised and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein and illustrated in the drawings can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are contemplated in this disclosure.
Immersive technologies may present a user with a combination of a virtual environment and the user's physical environment, or the real world. The user may interact with the resulting immersive or combined reality.
The device immerses the user by augmenting or replacing stimuli associated with one of the user's five senses with a virtual stimuli. Typically this is a virtual stimuli, although there could be additional stimuli that augment or replace stimuli associated with one of the additional four senses.
In some forms, a particular immersive technology may present a user with a combination of a virtual environment and the user's environment. At least a portion of the resulting environment may include a virtual environment. In some examples, the entire resulting environment may be a virtual environment (e.g., meaning the user's environment may be block from view or otherwise obstructed). In other forms, at least a portion of the user's physical environment may still be visually observable.
In some forms, the user may use different types of immersive technologies, which may include, but are not limited to, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), or mixed reality (MR). Each type of immersive technology may present the user with a different environment and/or a different way to interact with the environment.
In some forms, a display system may be used with each type of immersive technology. A display screen of the display system may provide a virtual environment component to the combination environment (i.e., the combination of the virtual and user's environments). In certain forms, the display screen may be an electronic screen.
In at least some types of immersive technologies (e.g., VR, AR, MR, etc.), positioning and stabilizing the electronic screen may be useful in operating a respective device. For example, the user may desire the electronic screen to be positioned close enough to their eyes to allow for easy viewing, but far enough away so as not to cause discomfort. Additionally, the electronic screen may need to be spaced far enough away so that users may simultaneously wear corrective lenses, like glasses. In addition, users may seek to maintain the orientation of the electronic screen relative to their eyes. In other words, users who walk, or otherwise move, while using these devices may not want the device to bounce or otherwise move on their head (e.g., particularly relative to their eyes), as this may cause dizziness and/or discomfort to the user. Therefore, these devices may be supported snuggly against the user's head in order to limit relative movement between the user's eyes and the device.
In one form, the present technology comprises a method for using a VR device comprising supporting the device on the user's head proximate to at least one of the user's eyes, and within the user's line of sight.
In certain examples of the present technology, a head-mounted display unit is supported in front of both of the user's eyes in order to block, obstruct, and/or limit ambient light from reaching the user's eyes.
Any features disclosed below in the context of a device configured for VR are to be understood as being applicable to devices configured for AR, unless the context clearly requires otherwise. Likewise features disclosed below in the context of a device configured for AR are to be understood as being applicable to devices configured for VR, unless the context clearly requires otherwise. For the avoidance of doubt, a feature disclosed in the context of a device that does not have a transparent display, through which the user can view the real world, is to be understood as being applicable to a device having such a transparent display unless the context clearly requires otherwise. Likewise a feature disclosed in the context of a device that has a transparent display, through which the real-world can be viewed, is to be understood to be applicable to a device in which the display is electronic and through which the real-world cannot be viewed directly through a transparent material.
As shown in
In other aspects, the head-mounted display system 1000 may also include a display unit housing 1205, an optical lens 1240, a controller 1270, a speaker 1272, a power source 1274, and/or a control system 1276. In some examples, these may be integral pieces of the head-mounted display system 1000, while in other examples, these may be modular and incorporated into the head-mounted display system 1000 as desired by the user.
The head-mounted display unit 1200 may include a structure for providing an observable output to a user. Specifically, the head-mounted display unit 1200 is arranged to be held (e.g., manually, by a positioning and stabilizing structure, etc.) in an operational position in front of a user's face.
In some examples, the head-mounted display unit 1200 may include a display screen 1220, a display unit housing 1205, an interfacing structure 1100, and/or an optical lens 1240. These components may be permanently assembled in a single head-mounted display unit 1200, or they may be separable and selectively connected by the user to form the head-mounted display unit 1200. Additionally, the display screen 1220, the display unit housing 1205, the interfacing structure 1100, and/or the optical lens 1240 may be included in the head-mounted display system 1000, but may not be part of the head-mounted display unit 1200.
Some forms of the head-mounted display unit 1200 include a display, for example a display screen—not shown in
In one form of the present technology, a display screen provides an optical output observable by the user. The optical output allows the user to observe a virtual environment and/or a virtual object.
The display screen may be positioned proximate to the user's eyes, in order to allow the user to view the display screen. For example, the display screen may be positioned anterior to the user's eyes. The display screen can output computer generated images and/or a virtual environment.
In some forms, the display screen is an electronic display. The display screen may be a liquid crystal display (LCD), or a light emitting diode (LED) screen.
In certain forms, the display screen may include a backlight, which may assist in illuminating the display screen. This may be particularly beneficial when the display screen is viewed in a dark environment.
In some forms, the display screen may extend wider a distance between the user's pupils. The display screen may also be wider than a distance between the user's cheeks.
In some forms, the display screen may display at least one image that is observable by the user. For example, the display screen may display images that change based on predetermined conditions (e.g., passage of time, movement of the user, input from the user, etc.).
In certain forms, portions of the display screen may be visible to only one of the user's eyes. In other words, a portion of the display screen may be positioned proximate and anterior to only one of the user's eyes (e.g., the right eye), and is blocked from view from the other eye (e.g., the left eye).
In one example, the display screen may be divided into two sides (e.g., a left side and a right side), and may display two images at a time (e.g., one image on either side).
Each side of the display screen may display a similar image. In some examples, the images may be identical, while in other examples, the images may be slightly different.
Together, the two images on the display screen may form a binocular display, which may provide the user with a more realistic VR experience. In other words, the user's brain may process the two images from the display screen 1220 together as a single image. Providing two (e.g., un-identical) images may allow the user to view virtual objects on their periphery, and expand their field of view in the virtual environment.
In certain forms, the display screen may be positioned in order to be visible by both of the user's eyes. The display screen may output a single image at a time, which is viewable by both eyes. This may simplify the processing as compared to the multi-image display screen.
In some forms of the present technology as shown in
A display unit housing 1205 in accordance with some forms of the present technology may be constructed from a hard, rigid or semi-rigid material, such as plastic.
In certain forms, the rigid or semi-rigid material may be at least partially covered with a soft and/or flexible material (e.g., a textile, silicone, etc.). This may improve biocompatibility and/or user comfort because the at least a portion of the display unit housing 1205 that the user engages (e.g., grabs with their hands) includes the soft and/or flexible material.
A display unit housing 1205 in accordance with other forms of the present technology may be constructed from a soft, flexible, resilient material, such as silicone rubber.
In some forms, the display unit housing 1205 may have a substantially rectangular or substantially elliptical profile. The display unit housing 1205 may have a three-dimensional shape with the substantially rectangular or substantially elliptical profile.
In certain forms, the display unit housing 1205 may include a superior face 1230, an inferior face 1232, a lateral left face 1234, a lateral right face 1236, and an anterior face 1238. The display screen 1220 may be held within the faces in use.
In certain forms, the superior face 1230 and the inferior face 1232 may have substantially the same shape.
In one form, the superior face 1230 and the inferior face 1232 may be substantially flat, and extend along parallel planes (e.g., substantially parallel to the Frankfort horizontal in use).
In certain forms, the lateral left face 1234 and the lateral right face 1236 may have substantially the same shape.
In one form, the lateral left face 1234 and the lateral right face 1236 may be curved and/or rounded between the superior and inferior faces 1230, 1232. The rounded and/or curved faces 1234, 1236 may be more comfortable for a user to grab and hold while donning and/or doffing the head-mounted display system 1000.
In certain forms, the anterior face 1238 may extend between the superior and inferior faces 1230, 1232. The anterior face 1238 may form the anterior most portion of the head-mounted display system 1000.
In one form, the anterior face 1238 may be a substantially planar surface, and may be substantially parallel to the coronal plane, while the head-mounted display system 1000 is worn by the user.
In one form, the anterior face 1238 may not have a corresponding opposite face (e.g., a posterior face) with substantially the same shape as the anterior face 1238. The posterior portion of the display unit housing 1205 may be at least partially open (e.g., recessed in the anterior direction) in order to receive the user's face.
In some forms, the display screen is permanently integrated into the head-mounted display system 1000. The display screen may be a device usable only as a part of the head-mounted display system 1000.
In some forms, the display unit housing 1205 may enclose the display screen, which may protect the display screen and/or limit user interference (e.g., moving and/or breaking) with the components of the display screen.
In certain forms, the display screen may be substantially sealed within the display unit housing 1205, in order to limit the collection of dirt or other debris on the surface of the display screen, which could negatively affect the user's ability to view an image output by the display screen. The user may not be required to break the seal and access the display screen, since the display screen is not removable from the display unit housing 1205.
In some forms, the display screen is removably integrated into the head-mounted display system 1000. The display screen may be a device usable independently of the head-mounted display system 1000 as a whole. For example, the display screen may be provided on a smart phone, or other portable electronic device.
In some forms, the display unit housing 1205 may include a compartment. A portion of the display screen may be removably receivable within the compartment. For example, the user may removably position the display screen in the compartment. This may be useful if the display screen performs additional functions outside of the head-mounted display unit 1200 (e.g., is a portable electronic device like a cell phone). Additionally, removing the display screen from the display unit housing 1205 may assist the user in cleaning and/or replacing the display screen.
Certain forms of the display housing include an opening to the compartment, allowing the user to more easily insert and remove the display screen from the compartment. The display screen may be retained within the compartment via a frictional engagement.
In certain forms, a cover may selectively cover the compartment, and may provide additional protection and/or security to the display screen 1220 while positioned within the compartment.
In certain forms, the compartment may open on the superior face. The display screen may be inserted into the compartment in a substantially vertical direction while the display interface 3000 is worn by the user.
As shown in
In some forms, the interfacing structure 1100 is coupled to a surface of the display unit housing 1205.
In some forms, the interfacing structure 1100 may extent at least partially around the display unit housing 1205, and may form a viewing opening. The viewing opening may at least partially receive the user's face in use. Specifically, the user's eyes may be received within the viewing opening formed by the interfacing structure 1100.
In some forms, the interfacing structure 1100 in accordance with the present technology may be constructed from a biocompatible material.
In some forms, the interfacing structure 1100 in accordance with the present technology may be constructed from a soft, flexible, and/or resilient material.
In certain forms, the interfacing structure 1100 in accordance with the present technology may be constructed from silicone rubber and/or foam.
In some forms, the interfacing structure 1100 may contact sensitive regions of the user's face, which may be locations of discomfort. The material forming the interfacing structure 1100 may cushion these sensitive regions, and limit user discomfort while wearing the head-mounted display system 1000.
In certain forms, these sensitive regions may include the user's forehead. Specifically, this may include the region of the user's head that is proximate to the frontal bone, like the Epicranius and/or the glabella. This region may be sensitive because there is limited natural cushioning from muscle and/or fat between the user's skin and the bone. Similarly, the ridge of the user's nose may also include little to no natural cushioning.
In some forms, the interfacing structure 1100 may comprise a single element. In some embodiments the interfacing structure 1100 may be designed for mass manufacture. For example, the interfacing structure 1100 may be designed to comfortably fit a wide range of different face shapes and sizes.
In some forms, the interfacing structure 1100 may include different elements that overlay different regions of the user's face. The different portions of the interfacing structure 1100 may be constructed from different materials, and provide the user with different textures and/or cushioning at different regions.
Some forms of the head-mounted display system 1000 may include a light shield that may be constructed from an opaque material and can block ambient light from reaching the user's eyes. The light shield may be part of the interfacing structure 1100 or may be a separate element. In some examples the interfacing structure 1100 may form a light shield by shielding the user's eyes from ambient light, in addition to providing a comfortable contacting portion for contact between the head-mounted display 1200 and the user's face. In some examples a light shield may be formed from multiple components working together to block ambient light.
In certain forms, the light shield can obstruct ambient light from reaching an eye region, which may be formed on regions of the Epicranius, the user's sphenoid, across the outer cheek region between the sphenoid to the left or right zygomatic arch, over the zygomatic arch, across the inner cheek region from the zygomatic arches towards the alar crests, and on the users' nasal ridge inferior to the sellion to enclose a portion of the users' face therebetween.
In one form, the light shield may not contact the user's face around its entire perimeter. For example, the light shield may be spaced from the user's nasal rigid. The width of this spacing may be substantially small, so as to substantially limit the ingress of ambient light. However, the user's nasal ridge may be sensitive and easily irritated. Thus, avoiding direct contact with the user's nasal ridge may improve user comfort while wearing the head-mounted display system 1000.
In certain forms, the light shield may be a portion of the display unit housing 1205, and may be integrally or removably coupled to the display unit housing 1205. In one form, if the display unit housing 1205 is usable with a display screen outputting AR or MR, and VR, the light shield may be removable from the display unit housing 1205, and only coupled to the display unit housing 1205 while using VR.
As shown in
In one form the target seal-forming region is located on an outside surface of the interfacing structure 1100.
In some forms, the light shield may form the seal-forming structure and seal against the user's face.
In certain forms, the entire perimeter of the light shield or interfacing structure 1100 may seal against the user's skin, and can block ambient light from reaching an eye region. The eye region may be formed on regions of the Epicranius, the user's sphenoid, across the outer cheek region between the sphenoid to the left or right zygomatic arch, over the zygomatic arch, across the inner cheek region from the zygomatic arches towards the alar crests, and on the users' nasal ridge inferior to the sellion to enclose a portion of the users' face therebetween.
When acting as a seal-forming structure, the light shield or interfacing structure 1100 may contact sensitive areas the user's face, like the user's nasal rigid. This contact may entirely prevent the ingress of ambient light. Sealing around the entire perimeter of the display unit housing 1205 may improve performance of the head-mounted display system 1000. Additionally, biocompatible materials may be selected so that direct contact with the user's nasal ridge does not significantly reduce user comfort while wearing the head-mounted display system 1000.
In certain forms of the present technology, a system is provided comprising more than one interfacing structure 1100, each being configured to correspond to a different size and/or shape range. For example the system may comprise one form of interfacing structure 1100 suitable for a large sized head, but not a small sized head and another suitable for a small sized head, but not a large sized head. The different interfacing structures 1100 may be removable and replaceable so that different users with different sized heads may use the same head-mounted display system 1000.
In some forms, the seal-forming structure the may be formed on regions of the Epicranius, the user's sphenoid, across the outer cheek region between the sphenoid to the left or right zygomatic arch, over the zygomatic arch, across the inner cheek region from the zygomatic arches towards the alar crests, and on the users' nasal ridge inferior to the sellion to enclose a portion of the users' face therebetween. This defined region may be an eye region.
In certain forms, this may seal around the user's eyes. The seal created by the seal-forming structure or interfacing structure 1100 may create a light seal, in order to limit ambient light from reaching the user's eyes.
Biocompatible materials are considered to be materials that undergo a full evaluation of their biological responses, relevant to their safety in use, according to ISO 10993-1 standard. The evaluation considers the nature and duration of anticipated contact with human tissues when in-use. In some forms of the present technology, the materials utilised in the positioning and stabilizing structure and interfacing structure may undergo at least some of the following biocompatibility tests: Cytotoxicity—Elution Test (MeM Extract): ANSI/AAMI/ISO 10993-5; Skin Sensitisation: ISO 10993-10; Irritation: ISO 10993-10; Genotoxicity—Bacterial Mutagenicity Test: ISO 10993-3; Implantation: ISO 10993-6.
As shown in
In some forms, the lenses 1240 are Fresnel lenses.
In some forms, the lens 1240 may have a substantially frustoconical shape. A wider end of the lens 1240 may be disposed proximate to the display screen 1220, and a narrower end of the lens 1240 may be disposed proximate to the user's eyes, in use.
In some forms, the lens 1240 may have a substantially cylindrical shape, and may have substantially the same width proximate to the display screen 1220, and proximate to the user's eyes, in use.
In some forms, the at least one lens 1240 may also magnify the image of the display screen 1220, in order to assist the user in viewing the image.
In some forms, the head-mounted display system 1000 includes two lenses 1240 (e.g., binocular display), one for each of the user's eyes. In other words, each of the user's eyes may look through a separate lens positioned anterior to the respective pupil. Each of the lenses 1240 may be identical, although in some examples, one lens 1240 may be different than the other lens 1240 (e.g., have a different magnification).
In certain forms, the display screen 1220 may output two images simultaneously. Each of the user's eyes may be able to see only one of the two images. The images may be displayed side-by-side on the display screen 1220. Each lens 1240 permits each eye to observe only the image proximate to the respective eye. The user may observe these two images together as a single image.
In some forms, the posterior perimeter of each lens 1240 may be approximately the size of the user's orbit. The posterior perimeter may be slightly larger than the size of the user's orbit in order to ensure that the user's entire eye can see into the respective lens 1240. For example, the outer edge of the each lens 1240 may be aligned with the user's frontal bone in the superior direction (e.g., proximate the user's eyebrow), and may be aligned with the user's maxilla in the inferior direction (e.g., proximate the outer cheek region).
The positioning and/or sizing of the lenses 1240 may allow the user to have approximately 360° of peripheral vision in the virtual environment, in order to closely simulate the physical environment.
In some forms, the head-mounted display system 1000 includes a single lens 1240 (e.g., monocular display). The lens 1240 may be positioned anterior to both eyes (e.g., so that both eyes view the image from the display screen 1220 through the lens 1240), or may be positioned anterior to only one eye (e.g., when the image from the displace screen 1220 is viewable by only one eye).
The lenses 1240 may be coupled to a spacer positioned proximate to the display screen 1220 (e.g., between the display screen 1220 and the interfacing structure 1100), so that the lenses 1240 are not in direct contact with the display screen 1220 (e.g., in order to limit the lenses 1240 from scratching the display screen 1220).
For example, the lenses 1240 may be recessed relative to the interfacing structure 1100 so that the lenses 1240 are disposed within the viewing opening. In use, each of the user's eyes are aligned with the respective lens 1240 while the user's face is received within the viewing opening (e.g., an operational position).
In some forms, the anterior perimeter of each lens 1240 may encompass approximately half of the display screen 1220. A substantially small gap may exist between the two lenses 1240 along a center line of the display screen 1220. This may allow a user looking through both lenses 1240 to be able to view substantially the entire display screen 1220, and all of the images being output to the user.
In certain forms, the center of the display screen 1220 (e.g., along the center line between the two lenses 1240) may not output an image. For example, in a binocular display (e.g., where each side of the display screen 1220 outputs substantially the same image), each image may be spaced apart on the display screen 1220. This may allow two lenses 1240 to be positioned in close proximity to the display screen 1220, while allowing the user to view the entirety of the image displayed on the display screen 1220.
In some forms, a protective layer 1242 may be formed around at least a portion of the lenses 1240. In use, the protective layer 1242 may be positioned between the user's face and the display screen 1220.
In some forms, a portion of each lens 1240 may project through the protective layer 1242 in the posterior direction. For example, the narrow end of each lens 1240 may project more posterior than the protective layer 1242 in use.
In some forms, the protective layer 1242 may be opaque so that light from the display screen 1220 is unable to pass through. Additionally, the user may be unable to view the display screen 1220 without looking through the lenses 1240.
In some forms, the protective layer 1242 may be non-planar, and may include contours that substantially match contours of the user's face. For example, a portion of the protective layer 1242 may be recessed in the anterior direction in order to accommodate the user's nose.
In certain forms, the user may not contact the protective layer 1242 while wearing the head-mounted display system 1000. This may assist in reducing irritation from additional contact with the user's face (e.g., against the sensitive nasal ridge region).
In some examples, additional lenses may be coupled to the lenses 1240 so that the user looks through both the lens 1240 and the additional lens in order to view the image output by the display screen 1220.
In some forms, the additional lenses are more posterior than the lenses 1240, in use. Thus, the additional lenses are positioned closer to the user's eyes, and the user looks through the additional lenses before looking through the lenses 1240.
In some forms, the additional lenses may have a different magnification than the lenses 1240.
In some forms, the additional lenses, may be prescription strength lenses. The additional lenses may allow a user to view the display screen 1220 without glasses, which may be uncomfortable to wear while using the head-mounted display system 1000. The additional lenses may be removable so that users that do not require the additional lenses may still clearly view the display screen 1220.
As shown in
To hold the display screen 1220 and/or the display unit housing 1205 in its correct operational position, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is ideally comfortable against the user's head in order to accommodate the induced loading from the weight of the display unit in a manner that minimise facial markings and/or pain from prolonged use. There is also need to allow for a universal fit without trading off comfort, usability and cost of manufacture. The design criteria may include adjustability over a predetermined range with low-touch simple set up solutions that have a low dexterity threshold. Further considerations include catering for the dynamic environment in which the head-mounted display system 1000 may be used. As part of the immersive experience of a virtual environment, users may communicate, i.e. speak, while using the head-mounted display system 1000. In this way, the jaw or mandible of the user may move relative to other bones of the skull. Additionally, the whole head may move during the course of a period of use of the head-mounted display system 1000. For example, movement of a user's upper body, and in some cases lower body, and in particular, movement of the head relative to the upper and lower body.
In one form the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 provides a retention force to overcome the effect of the gravitational force on the display screen 1220 and/or the display unit housing 1205.
In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is provided that is configured in a manner consistent with being comfortably worn by a user. In one example the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 has a low profile, or cross-sectional thickness, to reduce the perceived or actual bulk of the apparatus. In one example, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 comprises at least one strap having a rectangular cross-section. In one example the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 comprises at least one flat strap.
In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is provided that is configured so as not to be too large and bulky to prevent the user from comfortably moving their head from side to side.
In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 comprises a strap constructed from a laminate of a textile user-contacting layer, a foam inner layer and a textile outer layer. In one form, the foam is porous to allow moisture, (e.g., sweat), to pass through the strap. In one form, a skin contacting layer of the strap is formed from a material that helps wick moisture away from the user's face. In one form, the textile outer layer comprises loop material to engage with a hook material portion.
In certain forms of the present technology, a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 comprises a strap that is extensible, e.g. resiliently extensible. For example the strap may be configured in use to be in tension, and to direct a force to draw the display screen 1220 and/or the display unit housing 1205 toward a portion of a user's face, particularly proximate to the user's eyes and in line with their field of vision. In an example the strap may be configured as a tie.
In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 comprises a first tie, the first tie being constructed and arranged so that in use at least a portion of an inferior edge thereof passes superior to an otobasion superior of the user's head and overlays a portion of a parietal bone without overlaying the occipital bone.
In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes a second tie, the second tie being constructed and arranged so that in use at least a portion of a superior edge thereof passes inferior to an otobasion inferior of the user's head and overlays or lies inferior to the occipital bone of the user's head.
In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes a third tie that is constructed and arranged to interconnect the first tie and the second tie to reduce a tendency of the first tie and the second tie to move apart from one another.
In certain forms of the present technology, a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 comprises a strap that is bendable and e.g. non-rigid. An advantage of this aspect is that the strap is more comfortable against a user's head.
In certain forms of the present technology, a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 comprises a strap constructed to be breathable to allow moisture vapour to be transmitted through the strap,
In certain forms of the present technology, a system is provided comprising more than one positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, each being configured to provide a retaining force to correspond to a different size and/or shape range. For example the system may comprise one form of positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 suitable for a large sized head, but not a small sized head, and another. suitable for a small sized head, but not a large sized head.
In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include cushioning material (e.g., a foam pad) for contacting the user's skin. The cushioning material may provide added wearability to the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, particularly if positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is constructed from a rigid or semi-rigid material.
As shown in
The temporal connectors 1250 may be lateral portions of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, as each temporal connector 1250 is positioned on either the left or the right side of the user's head.
In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may extend in an anterior-posterior direction, and may be substantially parallel to the sagittal plane.
In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may be coupled to the display unit housing 1205. For example, the temporal connectors 1250 may be connected to lateral sides of the display unit housing 1205. For example, each temporal connector 1250 may be coupled to a respective one of the lateral left face 1234 and the lateral right face 1236.
In certain forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may be pivotally connected to the display unit housing 1205, and may provide relative rotation between each temporal connector 1250, and the display unit housing 1205.
In certain forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may be removably connected to the display unit housing 1205 (e.g., via a magnet, a mechanical fastener, hook and loop material, etc.).
In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may be arranged in-use to run generally along or parallel to the Frankfort Horizontal plane of the head and superior to the zygomatic bone (e.g., above the user's cheek bone).
In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may be positioned against the user's head similar to arms of eye-glasses, and be positioned more superior than the anti-helix of each respective ear.
In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may have a generally elongate and flat configuration. In other words, each temporal connector 1250 is far longer and wider (direction from top to bottom in the paper plane) than thick (direction into the paper plane).
In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may each have a three-dimensional shape which has curvature in all three axes (X, Y and Z). Although the thickness of each temporal connector 1250 may be substantially uniform, its height varies throughout its length. The purpose of the shape and dimension of each temporal connector 1250 is to conform closely to the head of the user in order to remain unobtrusive and maintain a low profile (e.g., not appear overly bulky).
In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may be constructed from a rigid or semi-rigid material, which may include plastic, hytrel (thermoplastic polyester elastomer), or another similar material. The rigid or semi-rigid material may be self-supporting and/or able to hold its shape without being worn. This can make it more intuitive or obvious for users to understand how to use the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and may contrast with a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 that is entirely floppy and does not retain a shape. Maintaining the temporal connectors 1250 in the in-use state prior to use may prevent or limit distortion whilst the user is donning the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and allow a user to quickly fit or wear the head-mounted display system 1000.
In certain forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may be rigidizers, which may allow for a more effective (e.g., direct) translation of tension through the temporal connectors 1250 because rigidizers limit the magnitude of elongation or deformation of the arm while in-use.
In certain forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may be designed so that the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 springs ‘out of the box’ and generally into its in-use configuration. In addition, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may be arranged to hold its in-use shape once out of the box (e.g., because rigidizers may be formed to maintain the shape of some or part of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300). Advantageously, the orientation of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is made clear to the user as the shape of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is generally curved much like the rear portion of the user's head. That is, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is generally dome shaped.
In certain forms, a flexible and/or resilient material may be disposed around the rigid or semi-rigid material of the temporal connectors 1250. The flexible material may be more comfortable against the user's head, in order to improve wearability and provide soft contact with the user's face. In one form, the flexible material is a textile sleeve at is permanently or removably coupled to each temporal connector 1250.
In one form, a textile may be over-moulded onto at least one side of the rigidizer. In one form, the rigidizer may be formed separately to the resilient component and then a sock of user contacting material (e.g., Breath-O-Prene™) may be wrapped or slid over the rigidizer. In alternative forms, the user contacting material may be provided to the rigidizer by adhesive, ultrasonic welding, sewing, hook and loop material, and/or stud connectors.
In some forms, the user contacting material may be on both sides of the rigidizer, or alternatively may only be on the user contacting side (e.g., the user contacting side) of the rigidizer to reduce bulk and cost of materials.
In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 are constructed from a flexible material (e.g., a textile), which may be comfortable against the user's skin, and may not require an added layer to increase comfort.
As shown in
In some forms, the posterior support portion 1350 may be coupled to the display unit housing 1205 via the temporal connectors 1250.
In certain forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may be directly coupled to the display unit housing 1205 and to the posterior support portion 1350.
In some forms, the posterior support portion 1350 may have a three-dimensional contour curve to fit to the shape of a user's head. For example, the three-dimensional shape of the posterior support portion 1350 may have a generally round three-dimensional shape adapted to overlay a portion of the parietal bone and the occipital bone of the user's head, in use.
In some forms, the posterior support portion 1350 may be a posterior portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. The posterior support portion 1350 may provide an anchoring force directed at least partially in the anterior direction.
In certain forms, the posterior support portion 1350 is the inferior-most portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, the posterior support portion 1350 may contact a region of the user's head between the occipital bone and the trapezius muscle. The rear support 3008 may hook against an inferior edge of the occipital bone (e.g., the occiput). The posterior support portion 1350 may provide a force directed in the superior direction and/or the anterior direction in order to maintain contact with the user's occiput.
In certain forms, the posterior support portion 1350 is the inferior-most portion of the entire head-mounted display system 1000. For example, the posterior support portion 1350 may be positioned at the base of the user's neck (e.g., overlaying the occipital bone and the trapezius muscle more inferior than the user's eyes) so that the posterior support portion 1350 is more inferior than the display screen 1220 and/or the display unit housing 1205.
In some forms, the posterior support portion 1350 may include a padded material, which may contact the user's head (e.g., overlaying the region between the occipital bone and the trapezius muscle). The padded material may provide additional comfort to the user, and limit marks caused by the posterior support portion 1350 pulling against the user's head.
Some forms of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include a forehead support or frontal support portion 1360 that configured to contact the user's head superior to the user's eyes, while in use. The positioning and stabilising structure 1300 shown in
In some forms, the forehead support 1360 may be an anterior portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, and may be disposed more anterior on the user's head than any other portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. The posterior support portion 1350 may provide a force directed at least partially in the posterior direction.
In some forms, the forehead support 1360 may include a cushioning material (e.g., textile, foam, silicone, etc.) that may contact the user, and may help to limit marks caused by the straps of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. The forehead support 1360 and the interfacing structure 1100 may work together in order to provide comfort to the user.
In some forms, the forehead support 1360 may be separate from the display unit housing 1205, and may contact the user's head at a different location (e.g., more superior) than the display unit housing 1205.
In some forms, the forehead support 1360 can be adjusted to allow the positioning and stabilizing structure 3000 to accommodate the shape and/or configuration of a user's face.
In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may be coupled to the forehead support 1360 (e.g., on lateral sides of the forehead support 1360). The temporal connectors 1250 may extend at least partially in the inferior direction in order to couple to the posterior support portion 1350.
In certain forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include multiple pairs of temporal connectors 1250. For example, one pair of temporal connectors 1250 may be coupled to the forehead support 1360, and one pair of temporal connectors 1250 may be coupled to the display unit housing 1205.
In some forms, the forehead support 1360 can be presented at an angle which is generally parallel to the user's forehead to provide improved comfort to the user. For example, the forehead support 1360 may position the user in an orientation that overlays the frontal bone, and is substantially parallel to the coronal plane. Positioning the forehead support substantially parallel to the coronal plane can reduce the likelihood of pressure sores which may result from an uneven presentation.
In some forms, the forehead support 1360 may be offset from a rear support or posterior support portion that contacts a posterior region of the user's head (e.g., an area overlaying the occipital bone and the trapezius muscle). In other words, an axis along a rear strap would not intersect the forehead support 1360, which may be disposed more inferior and anterior than the axis along the rear strap. The resulting offset between the forehead support 1360 and the rear strap may create moments that oppose the weight force of the display screen 1220 and/or the display unit housing 1205. A larger offset may create a larger moment, and therefore more assistance in maintaining a proper position of the display screen 1220 and/or the display unit housing 1205. The offset may be increased by moving the forehead support 1360 closer to the user's eyes (e.g., more anterior and inferior along the user's head), and/or increasing the angle of the rear strap so that it is more vertical.
As shown in
In some forms, the display unit housing 1205 may include at least one loop or eyelet 1254, and at least one of the temporal connectors 1250 may be threaded through that loop, and doubled back on itself. The length of the temporal connector 1250 threaded through the respective eyelet 1254 may be selected by the user in order to adjust the tensile force provided by the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, threading a greater length of the temporal connector 1250 through the eyelet 1254 may supply a greater tensile force.
In some forms, at least one of the temporal connectors 1250 may include an adjustment portion 1256 and a receiving portion 1258. The adjustment portion 1256 may be positioned through the eyelet 1254 on the display unit housing 1205, and may be coupled to the receiving portion 1258 (e.g., by doubling back on itself). The adjustment portion 1256 may include a hook material, and the receiving portion 1258 may include a loop material (or vice versa), so that the adjustment portion 1256 may be removably held in the desired position. In some examples, the hook material and the loop material may be Velcro.
In certain forms, adjusting the position of the adjustment portion 1256 relative to the receiving portion 1258 may apply a posterior force to the display screen 1220 and/or the display unit housing 1205, and increase or decrease a sealing force of the light shield against the user's head (e.g., when the light shield acts as a seal-forming structure).
In certain forms, the adjustment portion 1256 may be constructed from a flexible and/or resilient material, which may conform to a shape of the user's head and/or may allow the adjustment portion to be threaded through the eyelet 1254. For example, the adjustment portion(s) 1256 may be constructed from an elastic textile, which may provide an elastic, tensile force. The remainder of the temporal connectors 1250 may be constructed from the rigid or semi-rigid material described above (although it is contemplated that additional sections of the temporal connectors 1250 may also be constructed from a flexible material).
In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure 3000 may include a top strap portion 1340, which may overlay a superior region of the user's head.
In some forms, the top strap portion 1340 may extend between an anterior portion of the head-mounted display system 1000 and a posterior region of the head-mounted display system 1000.
In some forms, the top strap portion 1340 may be constructed from a flexible material, and may be configured to compliment the shape of the user's head.
In certain forms, the top strap portion 1340 may be connected to the display unit housing 1205. For example, the top strap portion 1340 may be coupled to the superior face 1230. The top strap portion 1340 may also be coupled to the display unit housing 1205 proximate to a posterior end of the display unit housing 1205.
In certain forms, the top strap portion 1340 may be coupled to the forehead support 1360. For example, the top strap portion 1340 may be coupled to the forehead support 1360 proximate to a superior edge. The top strap portion 1340 may be connected to the display unit housing 1205 through the forehead support 1360.
In some forms, the top strap portion 1340 may be connected to the posterior support portion 1350. For example, the top strap portion 1340 may be connected proximate to a superior edge of the posterior support portion 1350.
In some forms, the top strap portion 1340 may overlay the frontal bone and the parietal bone of the user's head.
In certain forms, the top strap portion 1340 may extend along the sagittal plane as it extends between the anterior and posterior portions of the head-mounted display system 1000.
In certain forms, the top strap portion 1340 may apply a tensile force oriented at least partially in the superior direction, which may oppose the force of gravity.
In certain forms, the top strap portion 1340 may apply a tensile force oriented at least partially in the posterior direction, which may pull the interfacing structure 1100 toward the user's face (and supply a portion of the sealing force when the light shield 3304 acts as a seal-forming structure).
In some forms, the top strap portion 1340 may be adjustable in order to impart a selective tensile force on the display screen 1220 and/or the display unit housing 1205 in order to secure a position of the display screen 1220 and/or the display unit housing 1205.
In certain forms, the display unit housing 1205 and/or the forehead support 1360 (as the case may be) may include at least one loop or eyelet 1254, and the top strap portion 1340 may be threaded through that eyelet 1254, and doubled back on itself. The length of the top strap portion 1340 threaded through the eyelet 1254 may be selected by the user in order to adjust the tensile force provided by the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, threading a greater length of the top strap portion 1340 through the eyelet 1254 may supply a greater tensile force.
In some forms, the top strap portion 1340 may include an adjustment portion and a receiving portion. The adjustment portion may be positioned through the eyelet 1254, and may be coupled to the receiving portion (e.g., by doubling back on itself). The adjustment portion may include a hook material, and the receiving portion may include a loop material (or vice versa), so that the adjustment portion may be removably held in the desired position. In some examples, the hook material and the loop material may be Velcro.
In some forms, the display unit housing 1205 and/or the display screen 1220 may pivot relative to the user's face while the user has donned the positioning and stabilizing structure. This may allow the user to see the physical environment while still wearing the user interface 3000. This may be useful for users who want to take a break for viewing the virtual environment, but do not wish to doff the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300.
In some forms, a pivot connection 1260 may be formed between a superior portion of the display unit housing 1205 and the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, the pivot connection 1260 may be formed on the superior face 1230 of the display unit housing 1205.
In certain forms, the pivot connection 1260 may be coupled to the forehead support 1360. The display unit housing 1205 may be able to pivot about an inferior edge of the forehead support 1360.
In one form, the temporal connectors 1250 may be coupled to the forehead support 1360 in order to allow the display unit housing 1205 to pivot.
In some forms, the pivot connection 1260 may be a ratchet connection, and may maintain the display unit housing 1205 in a raised position without additional user intervention.
As shown in
In some forms, the controller 1270 may include a handheld device, and may be easily grasped by a user with a single hand.
In certain forms, the head-mounted display system 1000 may include two handheld controllers. The handheld controllers may be substantially identical to one another, and each handheld controller may be actuatable by a respective one of the user's hands.
In some forms, the user may interact with the handheld controller(s) in order to control and/or interact with virtual objects in the virtual environment.
In some forms, the handheld controller includes a button that may be actuatable by the user. For example, the user's fingers may be able to press the button while grasping the handheld controller.
In some forms, the handheld controller may include a directional control (e.g., a joystick, a control pad, etc.). The user's thumb may be able to engage the directional control while grasping the handheld controller.
In certain forms, the controller 1270 may be wirelessly connected to the head-mounted display unit 1200. For example, the controller 1270 and the head-mounted display unit 1200 may be connected via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or any similar means.
In certain forms, the controller 1270 and the head-mounted display unit 1200 may be connected with a wired connection.
In some forms, at least a portion of the controller 1270 may be integrally formed on the display unit housing 1205.
In some forms, the controller 1270 may include control buttons that are integrally formed on the display unit housing 1205. For example, the control buttons may be formed on the superior face 1230 and/or the inferior face 1232, so as to be engageable by the user's fingers when holding the user's palm rests against the lateral left or right face 1234, 1236 of the display unit housing 1205. Control buttons may also be disposed on other faces of the display unit housing 1205.
In some forms, the user may interact with the control buttons in order to control at least one operation of the head-mounted display system 1000. For example, the control button may be an On/Off button, which may selectively control whether the display screen 1220 is outputting an image to the user.
In certain forms, the control buttons and the head-mounted display unit 1200 may be connected with a wired connection.
In some forms, the head-mounted display system 1000 may include both the handheld controller and the control buttons.
With reference to
In some forms, the speakers 1272 may be positionable around the user's ears, and may block or limit the user from hearing ambient noise.
In certain forms, the speakers 1272 may be wirelessly connected to the head-mounted display unit 1200. For example, the speakers 1272 and the head-mounted display unit 1200 may be connected via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or any similar means.
In some forms, the speaker 1272 includes a left ear transducer and a right ear transducer. In some forms, the left and right ear transducers may output different signals, so that the volume and or noise heard by the user in one ear (e.g., the left ear) may be different than the volume and or noise heard by the user in the other ear (e.g., the right ear).
In some forms, the speaker 1272 (e.g., the volume of the speaker 1272) may be controlled using the controller 1270.
With reference to
In certain forms, the power source 1274 may include a wired electrical connection that may be coupled to an external power source, which may be fixed to a particular location.
In certain forms, the power source 1274 may include a portable battery that may provide power to the head-mounted display unit 1200. The portable battery may allow the user greater mobility than compared to a wired electrical connection.
In certain forms, the head-mounted display system 1000 and/or other electronic components of the head-mounted display system 1000 may include internal batteries, and may be usable without the power source 1274.
In some forms, the head-mounted display system 1000 may include the power source 1274 in a position remote from the head-mounted display unit 1200. Electrical wires may extend from the distal location to the display unit housing 1205 in order to electrically connect the power source 1274 to the head-mounted display unit 1200.
In certain forms, the power source 1274 may be coupled to the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, the power source 1274 may be coupled to a strap of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, either permanently or removably. The power supply 1274 may be coupled to a posterior portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, so that it may be generally opposite the display unit housing 1205 and/or the head-mounted display unit 1200. The weight of the power source 1274, and the weight of the head-mounted display unit 1200 and the display unit housing 1205 may therefore be spread throughout the head-mounted display system 1000, instead of concentrated at the anterior portion of the head-mounted display system 1000. Shifting weight to the posterior portion of the head-mounted display system 1000 may limit the moment created at the user's face, which may improve comfort and allow the user to wear the head-mounted display system 1000 for longer periods of time.
In certain forms, the power source 1274 may be supported by a user distal to the user's head. For example, the power source 1274 may connected to the head-mounted display unit 1200 and/or the display unit housing 1205 only through an electrical connector (e.g., a wire). The power source 1274 may be stored in the user's pants pocket, on a belt clip, or a similar way which supports the weight of the power source 1274. This removes weight that the user's head is required to support, and may make wearing the head-mounted display system 1000 more comfortable for the user.
In some forms, the head-mounted display unit 1200 may include the power source 1274. For example, the display unit 1220 may be a cell phone, or other similar electronic device, which includes an internal power source 1274.
With reference to
In some forms, the control system 1276 may include sensors that monitor different parameters (e.g., in the physical environment), and communicates measured parameters to a processor. The output received by the user may be affected by the measured parameters.
In some forms, the control system 1276 is integrated into the head-mounted display unit 1200. In other forms, the control system 1276 is housed in a control system support 1290 that is separate from, but connected to (e.g., electrically connected to) the head-mounted display unit 1200.
In some forms, the control system 1276 may be powered by the power source 1274, which may be at least one battery used for powering components of the control system 1276. For example, sensors of the control system 1276 may be powered by the power source 1274.
In some forms, the at least one battery of the power source 1274 may be a low power system battery 1278 and a main battery 7008.
In certain forms, the low power system battery 1278 may be used to power a real time (RT) clock 1282 of the control system 1276.
In some forms, a battery support portion 1288 may support the low power system battery 1278 and/or the main battery 7008. The battery support portion 1288 may be directly supported on the head-mounted display system 1000.
In some forms, the battery support portion 1288 may be disposed within the display unit housing 1205.
In some forms, the battery support portion 1288 may be disposed on the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, the battery support portion 1288 may be coupled to the posterior support portion 1350. The weight of the head-mounted display system 1000 may be better balanced around the user's head. One form of a battery support portion 1288 is a battery pack housing, which will be described in more detail herein.
In some forms, a battery support portion 1288 may support the low power system battery 1278 and/or the main battery 7008. The battery support portion 1288 may be coupled to the user independently of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and/or the display unit housing 1205 (e.g., it may be coupled via a belt clip). The battery support portion 1288 also may be supported remote from the user's body (e.g., if the head-mounted display system 1000 receives power from a computer or video game console). A tether may couple the battery support portion 1288 to the control system 1276 and/or other electronics. The positioning of the battery support portion may improve comfort for the user, since the weight of the low power system battery 1278 and/or the main battery 7008 are not supported by the user's head.
In some forms, the control system 1276 includes an orientation sensor 1284 that can sense the orientation of the user's body. For example, the orientation sensor 1284 may sense when the user rotates their body as a whole, and/or their head individually. In other words, the orientation sensor 1284 may measure an angular position (or any similar parameter) of the user's body. By sensing the rotation, the sensor 1284 may communicate to the display screen 1220 to output a different image.
In some examples, an external orientation sensor may be positioned in the physical environment where the user is wearing the head-mounted display system 1000. The external position sensor may track the user's movements similar to the orientation sensor 1284 described above. Using an external orientation sensor may reduce the weight required to be supported by the user.
In some forms, the control system 1276 may include at least one camera, which may be positioned to view the physical environment of the user.
In some forms, the orientation sensor 1284 is a camera, which may be configured to observe the user's physical environment in order to determine the orientation of the user's head (e.g., in what direction the user's head has tilted).
In some forms, the orientation sensor 1284 includes multiple cameras positioned throughout the head-mounted display system 1000 in order to provide a more complete view of the user's physical environment, and more accurately measure the orientation of the user's head.
In some forms, the cameras 1284 are coupled to the anterior face 1238 of the display unit housing 1205. The cameras 1284 may be positioned in order to in order to provide a “first-person” view.
In certain forms, the display screen 1220 may display the user's physical environment by using the cameras 1284, so that the user may feel as though they are viewing their physical environment without assistance from the head-mounted display system 1000 (i.e., the first person view). This may allow the user to move around their physical environment without removing the head-mounted display system 1000.
In one form, virtual objects may be displayed while the display screen 1220 is displaying the user's physical environment. The cameras 1284 may allow the head-mounted display system 1000 to operate as an MR device. The control system 1276 may include a control to switch operation between a VR device and an MR device.
In some forms, the control system 1276 may include an eye sensor that can track movement of the user's eyes. For example, the eye sensor may be able to measure a position of at least one of the user's eyes, and determine which direction at least one of the user's eyes are looking.
In some forms, the control system 1276 may include two eye sensors. Each sensor may correspond to one of the user's eyes.
In some forms, the eye sensors may be disposed in or proximate to the lenses 1240.
In some forms, the eye sensors may measure an angular position of the user's ears in order to determine the visual output from the display screen 1220.
In some forms, the control system 1276 includes a processing system that may receive the measurements from the various sensors of the control system 1276.
In some forms, the processing system may receive measurements recorded by the orientation sensor 1284 and/or the eye sensors. Based on these measured values, the processor can communicate with the display screen 1220 in order to change the image being output. For example, if the user's eyes and/or the user's head pivots in the superior direction, the display screen 1220 may display a more superior portion of the virtual environment (e.g., in response to direction from the processing system).
As shown in
In other aspects, the head-mounted display system 1000 may also include an interfacing structure 1100, a controller 1270, a speaker 1272, a power source 1274, and/or a control system 1276. In some examples, these may be integral pieces of the head-mounted display system 1000, while in other examples, these may be modular and incorporated into the head-mounted display system 1000 as desired by the user.
The head-mounted display unit 1200 may include a structure for providing an observable output to a user. Specifically, the head-mounted display unit 1200 is arranged to be held (e.g., manually, by a positioning and stabilizing structure, etc.) in an operational position in front of a user's face.
In some examples, the head-mounted display unit 1200 may include a display screen 1220, a display unit housing 1205, and/or an interfacing structure 1100. These components may be integrally formed in a single head-mounted display unit 1200, or they may be separable and selectively connected by the user to form the head-mounted display unit 1200. Additionally, the display screen 1220, the display unit housing 1205, and/or the interfacing structure 1100 may be included in the head-mounted display system 1000, but may not be part of the head-mounted display unit 1200.
As shown in
In one form of the present technology shown in
The display screen 1220 may be positioned proximate to the user's eyes, in order to allow the user to view the display screen 1220. For example, the display screen 1220 maybe positioned anterior to the user's eyes. The display screen 1220 can display computer generated images that can be view by the user in order to augment the user's physical environment (e.g., the computer generated images may appear as though they are present in the user's physical environment).
In some forms, the display screen 1220 is an electronic display. The display screen 1220 may be a liquid crystal display (LCD), or a light emitting diode (LED) screen.
In some forms, the computer generated image may be projected onto the display screen 1220.
In some forms, the display screen 1220 may extend wider a distance between the user's pupils. The display screen 1220 may also be wider than a distance between the user's cheeks.
In some forms, the display screen 1220 may display at least one image that is observable by the user. For example, the display screen 1220 may display images that change based on predetermined conditions (e.g., passage of time, movement of the user, input from the user, etc.).
In certain forms, portions of the display screen 1220 may be visible to only one of the user's eyes. In other words, a portion of the display screen 1220 may be positioned proximate and anterior to only one of the user's eyes (e.g., the right eye), and is blocked from view from the other eye (e.g., the left eye).
In one example, the display screen 1220 may be divided into two sides (e.g., a left side and a right side), and may display two images at a time (e.g., one image on either side).
Each side of the display screen 1220 may display a similar image. In some examples, the images may be identical, while in other examples, the images may be slightly different.
Together, the two images on the display screen 1220 may form a binocular display, which may provide the user with a more realistic AR or MR experience. In other words, the user's brain may process the two images from the display screen 1220 together as a single image. Providing two (e.g., un-identical) images may allow the user to view virtual objects on their periphery, and expand their field of view in the virtual environment.
In certain forms, the display screen 1220 may be positioned in order to be visible by both of the user's eyes. The display screen 1220 may output a single image at a time, which is viewable by both eyes. This may simplify the processing as compared to the multi-image display screen 1220.
In some forms, the head-mounted display system 1000 includes a single lens 1240 (e.g., monocular display). The lens 1240 may be positioned anterior to both eyes (e.g., so that both eyes view the image from the display screen 1220 through the lens 1240), or may be positioned anterior to only one eye (e.g., when the image from the displace screen 1220 is viewable by only one eye). This may be particularly useful in AR or MR, where the user may want limited virtual stimulation, and may wish to observe the physical environment without an overlayed virtual object.
In certain forms, particularly when using the display screen 1220 in an AR or MR environment, the display screen 1220 may be turned off while the user continues to wear the display screen 1220 and interact with the physical environment. This may allow the user to selectively choose when to receive the virtual stimulation, and when to observe only the physical environment.
In certain forms, the display screen 1220 may be transparent (or translucent). For example, the display screen 1220 may be glass, so the user can see through the display screen 1220. This may be particularly beneficial in AR or MR applications, so that the user can continue to see the physical environment.
As shown in
In some forms, the head-mounted display system 1000 includes two lenses 1240, one for each of the user's eyes. In other words, each of the user's eyes may look through a separate lens positioned anterior to the respective pupil. Each of the lenses 1240 may be identical, although in some examples, one lens 1240 may be different than the other lens 1240 (e.g., have a different magnification). For example, the lenses 1240 may be prescription lenses 1240, and each of the user's eyes may have a different prescription.
In certain forms, the display screen 1220 may output two images simultaneously. Each of the user's eyes may be able to see only one of the two images. The images may be displayed side-by-side on the display screen 1220. Each lens 1240 permits each eye to observe only the image proximate to the respective eye. The user may observe these two images together as a single image.
In certain forms, each lens 1240 may include a separate display screen 1220 that outputs different images. For example, different computer generated images may be displayed to the user's eyes.
In one form, the user may control whether both, one, or none of the display screens 1220 are outputting simultaneously. This may be beneficial to a user if they wish to switch which eye is observing the computer generated images.
In some forms, the head-mounted display system 1000 includes a single lens 1240 (e.g., monocular display). The lens 1240 may be positioned anterior to both eyes (e.g., so that both eyes view the image from the display screen 1220 through the lens 1240), or may be positioned anterior to only one eye (e.g., when the image from the displace screen 1220 is viewable by only one eye).
In some forms of the present technology as shown in
A display unit housing 1205 in accordance with some forms of the present technology may be constructed from a hard, rigid or semi-rigid material, such as plastic.
In certain forms, the rigid or semi-rigid material may be at least partially covered with a soft and/or flexible material (e.g., a textile, silicone, etc.). This may improve biocompatibility and/or user comfort because the at least a portion of the display unit housing 1205 that the user engages (e.g., grabs with their hands) includes the soft and/or flexible material.
A display unit housing 1205 in accordance with other forms of the present technology may be constructed from a soft, flexible, resilient material, such as silicone rubber.
In some forms, the display screen 1220 may project at least partially out of the display unit housing 1205. For example, unlike in a VR head-mounted display system 1000, the display screen 1220 in an AR (or MR) head-mounted display system 1000 may not be completely enclosed by the by the display unit housing 1205. The user may be able to directly view the display screen 1220, and may be able to look through the display screen 1220 (e.g., if the display screen 1220 is transparent or translucent).
In certain forms, the display unit housing 1205 may support sensors or other electronics described below. The display unit housing 1205 may provide protection to the electronics without substantially obstructing the user's view of the display screen 1220.
As shown in
In some forms, the interfacing structure 1100 is coupled to a surface of the display unit housing 1205.
In some forms, the interfacing structure 1100 in accordance with the present technology may be constructed from a biocompatible material.
In some forms, the interfacing structure 1100 in accordance with the present technology may be constructed from a soft, flexible, and/or resilient material.
In certain forms, the interfacing structure 1100 in accordance with the present technology may be constructed from silicone rubber and/or foam.
In some forms, the interfacing structure 1100 may contact sensitive regions of the user's face, which may be locations of discomfort. The material forming the interfacing structure 1100 may cushion these sensitive regions, and limit user discomfort while wearing the head-mounted display system 1000.
In certain forms, these sensitive regions may include the user's forehead. Specifically, this may include the region of the user's head that is proximate to the frontal bone, like the Epicranius and/or the glabella. This region may be sensitive because there is limited natural cushioning from muscle and/or fat between the user's skin and the bone. Similarly, the ridge of the user's nose may also include little to no natural cushioning.
In some forms, the interfacing structure 1100 can comprise a single element. In some embodiments the interfacing structure 1100 may be designed for mass manufacture. For example, the interfacing structure 1100 can be designed to comfortably fit a wide range of different face shapes and sizes.
In some forms, the interfacing structure 1100 may include different elements that overlay different regions of the user's face. The different portions of the interfacing structure 1100 may be constructed from different materials, and provide the user with different textures and/or cushioning at different regions.
In some forms, the interface structure 1100 may include nasal pads (e.g., as used in eye-glasses) that may contact the lateral sides of the user's nose. The nasal pads may apply light pressure to the user's nose to maintain the position of the head-mounted display system 1000, but may not apply a force that causes significant discomfort (e.g., the nasal pads may not receive a posterior directed tensile force).
As shown in
To hold the display screen 1220 and/or the display unit housing 1205 in its correct operational position, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is ideally comfortable against the user's head in order to accommodate the induced loading from the weight of the display unit in a manner that minimise facial markings and/or pain from prolonged use. There is also need to allow for a universal fit without trading off comfort, usability and cost of manufacture. The design criteria may include adjustability over a predetermined range with low-touch simple set up solutions that have a low dexterity threshold. Further considerations include catering for the dynamic environment in which the head-mounted display system 1000 may be used. As part of the immersive experience of a virtual environment, users may communicate, i.e. speak, while using the head-mounted display system 1000. In this way, the jaw or mandible of the user may move relative to other bones of the skull. Additionally, the whole head may move during the course of a period of use of the head-mounted display system 1000. For example, movement of a user's upper body, and in some cases lower body, and in particular, movement of the head relative to the upper and lower body.
In one form the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 provides a retention force to overcome the effect of the gravitational force on the display screen 1220 and/or the display unit housing 1205.
In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is provided that is configured in a manner consistent with being comfortably worn by a user. In one example the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 has a low profile, or cross-sectional thickness, to reduce the perceived or actual bulk of the apparatus. In one example, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 comprises at least one strap having a rectangular cross-section. In one example the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 comprises at least one flat strap.
In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is provided that is configured so as not to be too large and bulky to prevent the user from comfortably moving their head from side to side.
In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 comprises a strap constructed from a laminate of a textile user-contacting layer, a foam inner layer and a textile outer layer. In one form, the foam is porous to allow moisture, (e.g., sweat), to pass through the strap. In one form, a skin contacting layer of the strap is formed from a material that helps wick moisture away from the user's face. In one form, the textile outer layer comprises loop material to engage with a hook material portion.
In certain forms of the present technology, a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 comprises a strap that is extensible, e.g. resiliently extensible. For example the strap may be configured in use to be in tension, and to direct a force to draw the display screen 1220 and/or the display unit housing 1205 toward a portion of a user's face, particularly proximate to the user's eyes and in line with their field of vision. In an example the strap may be configured as a tie.
In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 comprises a first tie, the first tie being constructed and arranged so that in use at least a portion of an inferior edge thereof passes superior to an otobasion superior of the user's head and overlays a portion of a parietal bone without overlaying the occipital bone.
In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes a second tie, the second tie being constructed and arranged so that in use at least a portion of a superior edge thereof passes inferior to an otobasion inferior of the user's head and overlays or lies inferior to the occipital bone of the user's head.
In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 includes a third tie that is constructed and arranged to interconnect the first tie and the second tie to reduce a tendency of the first tie and the second tie to move apart from one another.
In certain forms of the present technology, a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 comprises a strap that is bendable and e.g. non-rigid. An advantage of this aspect is that the strap is more comfortable against a user's head.
In certain forms of the present technology, a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 comprises a strap constructed to be breathable to allow moisture vapour to be transmitted through the strap,
In certain forms of the present technology, a system is provided comprising more than one positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, each being configured to provide a retaining force to correspond to a different size and/or shape range. For example the system may comprise one form of positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 suitable for a large sized head, but not a small sized head, and another. suitable for a small sized head, but not a large sized head.
In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include cushioning material (e.g., a foam pad) for contacting the user's skin. The cushioning material may provide added wearability to the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, particularly if positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is constructed from a rigid or semi-rigid material.
As shown in
The temporal connectors 1250 may be lateral portions of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, as each temporal connector 1250 is positioned on either the left or the right side of the user's head.
In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may extend in an anterior-posterior direction, and may be substantially parallel to the sagittal plane.
In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may be coupled to the display unit housing 1205. For example, the temporal connectors 1250 may be connected to lateral sides of the display unit housing 1205.
In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may be arranged in-use to run generally along or parallel to the Frankfort Horizontal plane of the head and superior to the zygomatic bone (e.g., above the user's cheek bone).
In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may be positioned against the user's head similar to arms of eye-glasses, and be positioned more superior than the anti-helix of each respective ear.
In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may have a generally elongate and flat configuration. In other words, each temporal connector 1250 is far longer and wider (direction from top to bottom in the paper plane) than thick (direction into the paper plane).
In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may each have a three-dimensional shape which has curvature in all three axes (X, Y and Z). Although the thickness of each temporal connector 1250 may be substantially uniform, its height varies throughout its length. The purpose of the shape and dimension of each temporal connector 1250 is to conform closely to the head of the user in order to remain unobtrusive and maintain a low profile (e.g., not appear overly bulky).
In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may be constructed from a rigid or semi-rigid material, which may include plastic, Hytrel (thermoplastic polyester elastomer), or another similar material. The rigid or semi-rigid material may be self-supporting and/or able to hold its shape without being worn. This can make it more intuitive or obvious for users to understand how to use the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and may contrast with a positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 that is entirely floppy and does not retain a shape. Maintaining the temporal connectors 1250 in the in-use state prior to use may prevent or limit distortion whilst the user is donning the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and allow a user to quickly fit or wear the head-mounted display system 1000.
In certain forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may be rigidizers, which may allow for a more effective (e.g., direct) translation of tension through the temporal connectors 1250 because rigidizers limit the magnitude of elongation or deformation of the arm while in-use.
In certain forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may be designed so that the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 springs ‘out of the box’ and generally into its in-use configuration. In addition, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may be arranged to hold its in-use shape once out of the box (e.g., because rigidizers may be formed to maintain the shape of some or part of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300). Advantageously, the orientation of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is made clear to the user as the shape of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is generally curved much like the rear portion of the user's head. That is, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 is generally dome shaped.
In certain forms, a flexible and/or resilient material may be disposed around the rigid or semi-rigid material of the temporal connectors 1250. The flexible material may be more comfortable against the user's head, in order to improve wearability and provide soft contact with the user's face. In one form, the flexible material is a textile sleeve at is permanently or removably coupled to each temporal connector 1250.
In one form, a textile may be over-moulded onto at least one side of the rigidizer. In one form, the rigidizer may be formed separately to the resilient component and then a sock of user contacting material (e.g., Breath-O-Prene™) may be wrapped or slid over the rigidizer. In alternative forms, the user contacting material may be provided to the rigidizer by adhesive, ultrasonic welding, sewing, hook and loop material, and/or stud connectors.
In some forms, the user contacting material may be on both sides of the rigidizer, or alternatively may only be on the user contacting side (e.g., the user contacting side) of the rigidizer to reduce bulk and cost of materials.
In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 are constructed from a flexible material (e.g., a textile), which may be comfortable against the user's skin, and may not require an added layer to increase comfort.
Some forms of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include only temporal connectors 1250. The temporal connectors 1250 may be shaped like temples or arms of eye-glasses, and may rest against the user's head in a similar manner. For example, the temporal arms 3304 may provide a force directed into lateral sides of the user's head (e.g., toward the respective temporal bone).
As shown in
In some forms, the posterior support portion 1350 may be coupled to the display unit housing 1205 via the temporal connectors 1250.
In certain forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may be directly coupled to the display unit housing 1205 and to the posterior support portion 1350.
In some forms, the posterior support portion 1350 may have a three-dimensional contour curve to fit to the shape of a user's head. For example, the three-dimensional shape of the posterior support portion 1350 may have a generally round three-dimensional shape adapted to overlay a portion of the parietal bone and the occipital bone of the user's head, in use.
In some forms, the posterior support portion 1350 may be a posterior portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. The posterior support portion 1350 may provide an anchoring force directed at least partially in the anterior direction.
In certain forms, the posterior support portion 1350 is the inferior-most portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, the posterior support portion 1350 may contact a region of the user's head between the occipital bone and the trapezius muscle. The posterior support portion 1350 may hook against an inferior edge of the occipital bone (e.g., the occiput). The posterior support portion 1350 may provide a force directed in the superior direction and/or the anterior direction in order to maintain contact with the user's occiput.
In certain forms, the posterior support portion 1350 is the inferior-most portion of the entire head-mounted display system 1000. For example, the posterior support portion 1350 may be positioned at the base of the user's neck (e.g., overlaying the occipital bone and the trapezius muscle more inferior than the user's eyes) so that the posterior support portion 1350 is more inferior than the display screen 1220 and/or the display unit housing 1205.
In some forms, the posterior support portion 1350 may include a padded material, which may contact the user's head (e.g., overlaying the region between the occipital bone and the trapezius muscle). The padded material may provide additional comfort to the user, and limit marks caused by the posterior support portion 1350 pulling against the user's head.
As shown in
In some forms, the forehead support 1360 may be an anterior portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, and may be disposed more anterior on the user's head than any other portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. The posterior support portion 1350 may provide a force directed at least partially in the posterior direction.
In some forms, the forehead support 1360 may include a cushioning material (e.g., textile, foam, silicone, etc.) that may contact the user, and may help to limit marks caused by the straps of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. The forehead support 1360 and the interfacing structure 1100 may work together in order to provide comfort to the user.
In some forms, the forehead support 1360 may be separate from the display unit housing 1205, and may contact the user's head at a different location (e.g., more superior) than the display unit housing 1205.
In some forms, the forehead support 1360 can be adjusted to allow the positioning and stabilizing structure 3000 to accommodate the shape and/or configuration of a user's face.
In some forms, the temporal connectors 1250 may be coupled to the forehead support 1360 (e.g., on lateral sides of the forehead support 1360). The temporal connectors 1250 may extend at least partially in the inferior direction in order to couple to the posterior support portion 1350.
In certain forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may include multiple pairs of temporal connectors 1250. For example, one pair of temporal connectors 1250 may be coupled to the forehead support 1360, and one pair of temporal connectors 1250 may be coupled to the display unit housing 1205.
In some forms, the forehead support 1360 can be presented at an angle which is generally parallel to the user's forehead to provide improved comfort to the user. For example, the forehead support 1360 may position the user in an orientation that overlays the frontal bone, and is substantially parallel to the coronal plane. Positioning the forehead support substantially parallel to the coronal plane can reduce the likelihood of pressure sores which may result from an uneven presentation.
In some forms, the forehead support 1360 may be offset from a rear support that contacts a posterior region of the user's head (e.g., an area overlaying the occipital bone and the trapezius muscle). In other words, an axis along a rear strap would not intersect the forehead support 1360, which may be disposed more inferior and anterior than the axis along the rear strap. The resulting offset between the forehead support 1360 and the rear strap may create moments that oppose the weight force of the display screen 1220 and/or the display unit housing 1205. A larger offset may create a larger moment, and therefore more assistance in maintaining a proper position of the display screen 1220 and/or the display unit housing 1205. The offset may be increased by moving the forehead support 1360 closer to the user's eyes (e.g., more anterior and inferior along the user's head), and/or increasing the angle of the rear strap so that it is more vertical.
Portions of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may be adjustable, in order to impart a selective tensile force on the display screen 1220 and/or the display unit housing 1205 in order to secure a position of the display screen 1220 and/or the display unit housing 1205.
In some forms, the display unit housing 1205 may include at least one loop or eyelet 1254, and at least one of the temporal connectors 1250 may be threaded through that loop, and doubled back on itself. The length of a strap of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 threaded through the respective eyelet 1254 may be selected by the user in order to adjust the tensile force. For example, threading a greater length through the eyelet 1254 may supply a greater tensile force.
In some forms, at least one of the temporal connectors 1250 may include an adjustment portion 1256 and a receiving portion 1258. The adjustment portion 1256 may be positioned through the eyelet 1254 on the display unit housing 1205, and may be coupled to the receiving portion 1258 (e.g., by doubling back on itself). The adjustment portion 1256 may include a hook material, and the receiving portion 1258 may include a loop material (or vice versa), so that the adjustment portion 1256 may be removably held in the desired position. In some examples, the hook material and the loop material may be Velcro.
In certain forms, the strap may be constructed at least partially from a flexible and/or resilient material, which may conform to a shape of the user's head and/or may allow the adjustment portion to be threaded through the eyelet 1254. For example, the adjustment portion(s) 1256 may be constructed from an elastic textile, which may provide an elastic, tensile force. The remained of the temporal connectors 1250 may be constructed from the rigid or semi-rigid material described above (although it is contemplated that additional sections of the temporal connectors 1250 may also be constructed from a flexible material).
In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure 3000 may include a top strap portion 1340, which may overlay a superior region of the user's head.
In some forms, the top strap portion 1340 may extend between an anterior portion of the head-mounted display system 1000 and a posterior region of the head-mounted display system 1000.
In some forms, the top strap portion 1340 may be constructed from a flexible material, and may be configured to compliment the shape of the user's head.
In certain forms, the top strap portion 1340 may be connected to the display unit housing 1205. For example, the top strap portion 1340 may be coupled to the superior face 1230. The top strap portion 1340 may also be coupled to the display housing 3528 proximate to a posterior end of the display unit housing 1205.
In certain forms, the top strap portion 1340 may be coupled to the forehead support 1360. For example, the top strap portion 1340 may be coupled to the forehead support 1360 proximate to a superior edge. The top strap portion 1340 may be connected to the display unit housing 1205 through the forehead support 1360.
In some forms, the top strap portion 1340 may be connected to the posterior support portion 1350. For example, the top strap portion 1340 may be connected proximate to a superior edge of the posterior support portion 1350.
In some forms, the top strap portion 1340 may overlay the frontal bone and the pariental bone of the user's head.
In certain forms, the top strap portion 1340 may extend along the sagittal plane as it extends between the anterior and posterior portions of the head-mounted display system 1000.
In certain forms, the top strap portion 1340 may apply a tensile force oriented at least partially in the superior direction, which may oppose the force of gravity.
In some forms, the top strap portion 1340 may be adjustable in order to impart a selective tensile force on the display screen 1220 and/or the display unit housing 1205 in order to secure a position of the display screen 1220 and/or the display unit housing 1205.
In certain forms, the display unit housing 1205 and/or the forehead support 1360 may include at least one loop or eyelet 1254, and the top strap portion 1340 may be threaded through that eyelet 1254, and doubled back on itself. The length of the top strap portion 1340 threaded through the eyelet 1254 may be selected by the user in order to adjust the tensile force provided by the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, threading a greater length of the top strap portion 1340 through the eyelet 1254 may supply a greater tensile force.
In some forms, the top strap portion 1340 may include an adjustment portion and a receiving portion. The adjustment portion may be positioned through the eyelet 1254, and may be coupled to the receiving portion (e.g., by doubling back on itself). The adjustment portion may include a hook material, and the receiving portion may include a loop material (or vice versa), so that the adjustment portion may be removably held in the desired position. In some examples, the hook material and the loop material may be Velcro.
In some forms, the display unit housing 1205 and/or the display screen 1220 may pivot relative to the user's face while the user has donned the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. This may allow the user to see the physical environment without looking through the head-mounted display unit 1200 (e.g., without viewing computer generated images). This may be useful for users who want to take a break for viewing the virtual environment, but do not wish to doff the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300.
In certain forms, the pivot connection 1260 may be coupled to the temporal connectors 1250. The head-mounted display unit 1200 may be able to pivot about an axis extending between the temporal connectors 1250 (e.g., a substantially horizontal axis that may be substantially perpendicular to the Frankfort horizontal, in use).
In certain forms, the display screen 1220 and/or the display unit housing 1205 includes a pair of arms 1210, which extend away from the display screen 1220 (e.g., in a cantilevered configuration), and may extend in the posterior direction, in use.
In certain forms, the pair of arms 1210 may extend at least partially along the temporal connectors 1250, and may connect to the temporal connectors 1250 at the pivot connection 1260.
In some forms, the pivot connection 1260 may be a ratchet connection, and may maintain the display unit housing 1205 in a raised position without additional user intervention.
In some forms, the display screen 1220 and/or the display unit housing 1205 may include a neutral position (see e.g.,
In certain forms, the display screen 1220 and/or the display unit housing 1205 may pivot between approximately 0° and approximately 90° relative to the temporal connectors 1250. In certain forms, the display screen 1220 and/or the display unit housing 1205 may pivot between approximately 0° and approximately 80° relative to the temporal connectors 1250. In certain forms, the display screen 1220 and/or the display unit housing 1205 may pivot between approximately 0° and approximately 70° relative to the temporal connectors 1250. In certain forms, the display screen 1220 and/or the display unit housing 1205 may pivot between approximately 0° and approximately 60° relative to the temporal connectors 1250. In certain forms, the display screen 1220 and/or the display unit housing 1205 may pivot between approximately 0° and approximately 50° relative to the temporal connectors 1250. In certain forms, the display screen 1220 and/or the display unit housing 1205 may pivot between approximately 0° and approximately 45° relative to the temporal connectors 1250. At least at its maximum pivotal position, the display screen 1220 may be more superior than the user's eyes, so that the user does not have to look through the display screen 1220 to view the physical environment.
As shown in
In some forms, the controller 1270 may include a handheld device, and may be easily grasped by a user with a single hand.
In certain forms, the head-mounted display system 1000 may include two handheld controllers. The handheld controllers may be substantially identical to one another, and each handheld controller may be actuatable by a respective one of the user's hands.
In some forms, the user may interact with the handheld controller(s) in order to control and/or interact with virtual objects in the virtual environment.
In some forms, the handheld controller includes a button that may be actuatable by the user. For example, the user's fingers may be able to press the button while grasping the handheld controller.
In some forms, the handheld controller may include a directional control (e.g., a joystick, a control pad, etc.). The user's thumb may be able to engage the directional control while grasping the handheld controller.
In certain forms, the controller 1270 may be wirelessly connected to the head-mounted display unit 1200. For example, the connector 1270 and the head-mounted display unit 1200 may be connected via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or any similar means.
In certain forms, the controller 1270 and the head-mounted display unit 1200 may be connected with a wired connection.
In some forms, at least a portion of the controller 1270 may be integrally formed on the display unit housing 1205.
In some forms, the controller 1270 may include control buttons that are integrally formed on the display unit housing 1205. For example, the control buttons may be formed on the superior face 1230 and/or the inferior face 1232, so as to be engageable by the user's fingers when holding the user's palm rests against the lateral left or right face 1234, 1236 of the display unit housing 1205. Control buttons may also be disposed on other faces of the display unit housing 1205.
In some forms, the user may interact with the control buttons in order to control at least one operation of the head-mounted display system 1000. For example, the control button may be an On/Off button, which may selectively control whether the display screen 1220 is outputting an image to the user.
In certain forms, the control buttons and the head-mounted display unit 1200 may be connected with a wired connection.
In some forms, the head-mounted display system 1000 may include both the handheld controller and the control buttons.
In some forms, having only control button(s) may be preferable in an AR or MR device. While wearing the AR or MR head-mounted display system 1000, the user may be interacting with their physical environment (e.g., walking around, using tools, etc.). Thus, the user may prefer to keep their hands free of controllers 1270.
As shown in
In some forms, the speakers 1272 be positionable around the user's ears, and may block or limit the user from hearing ambient noise.
In certain forms, the speakers 1272 may be wirelessly connected to the head-mounted display unit 1200. For example, the speakers 1272 and the head-mounted display unit 1200 may be connected via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or any similar means.
In some forms, the speaker 1272 includes a left ear transducer and a right ear transducer. In some forms, the left and right ear transducers may output different signals, so that the volume and or noise heard by the user in one ear (e.g., the left ear) may be different than the volume and or noise heard by the user in the other ear (e.g., the right ear).
In some forms, the speaker 1272 (e.g., the volume of the speaker 1272) may be controlled using the controller 1270.
As shown in
In certain forms, the power source 1274 may include a wired electrical connection that may be coupled to an external power source, which may be fixed to a particular location.
In certain forms, the power source 1274 may include a portable battery that may provide power to the head-mounted display unit 1200. The portable battery may allow the user greater mobility than compared to a wired electrical connection.
In certain forms, the head-mounted display system 1000 and/or other electronic components of the head-mounted display system 1000 may include internal batteries, and may be usable without the power source 1274.
In some forms, the head-mounted display system 1000 may include the power source 1274 in a position remote from the head-mounted display unit 1200. Electrical wires may extend from the distal location to the display unit housing 1205 in order to electrically connect the power source 1274 to the head-mounted display unit 1200.
In certain forms, the power source 1274 may be coupled to the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, the power source 1274 may be coupled to a strap of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, either permanently or removably. The power supply 1274 may be coupled to a posterior portion of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300, so that it may be generally opposite the display unit housing 1205 and/or the head-mounted display unit 1200. The weight of the power source 1274, and the weight head-mounted display unit 1200 and the display unit housing 1205 may therefore be spread throughout the head-mounted display system 1000, instead of concentrated at the anterior portion of the head-mounted display system 1000. Shifting weight to the posterior portion of the display interface may limit the moment created at the user's face, which may improve comfort and allow the user to wear the head-mounted display system 1000 for longer periods of time.
In certain forms, the power source 1274 may be supported by a user distal to the user's head. For example, the power source 1274 may connected to the head-mounted display unit 1200 and/or the display unit housing 1205 only through an electrical connector (e.g., a wire). The power source 1274 may be stored in the user's pants pocket, on a belt clip, or a similar way which supports the weight of the power source 1274. This removes weight that the user's head is required to support, and may make wearing the head-mounted display system 1000 more comfortable for the user.
In some forms, the control system 1276 may be powered by the power source 1274 (e.g., at least one battery) used for powering components of the control system 1276. For example, sensors of the control system 1276 may be powered by the power source 1274.
In some forms, the at least one battery of the power source 1274 may be a low power system battery 1278 and a main battery 7008.
In certain forms, the low power system battery 1278 may be used to power a real time (RT) clock 1282 of the control system 1276.
In some forms, a battery support portion 1288 may support the low power system battery 1278 and/or the main battery 7008. The battery support portion 1288 may be directly supported on the head-mounted display system 1000.
In some forms, the battery support portion 1288 may be disposed within the display unit housing 1205.
In some forms, the battery support portion 1288 may be disposed on the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300. For example, the battery support portion 1288 may be coupled to the posterior support portion 1350. The weight of the head-mounted display system 1000 may be better balanced around the user's head.
In some forms, a battery support portion 1288 may support the low power system battery 1278 and/or the main battery 1280. The battery support portion 1288 may be coupled to the user independently of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and/or the display unit housing 1205 (e.g., it may be coupled via a belt clip). The battery support portion 1288 also may be supported remote from the user's body (e.g., if the head-mounted display system 1000 receives power from a computer or video game console). A tether may couple the battery support portion 1288 to the control system 1276 and/or other electronics. The positioning of the battery support portion may improve comfort for the user, since the weight of the low power system battery 1278 and/or the main battery 7008 are not supported by the user's head.
In some forms, the control system 1276 includes an orientation sensor 1284 that can sense the orientation of the user's body. For example, the orientation sensor 1284 may sense when the user rotates their body as a whole, and/or their head individually. In other words, the orientation sensor 1284 may measure an angular position (or any similar parameter) of the user's body. By sensing the rotation, the sensor 1284 may communicate to the display screen 1220 to output a different image.
In some examples, an external orientation sensor may be positioned in the physical environment where the user is wearing the head-mounted display system 1000. The external position sensor may track the user's movements similar to the orientation sensor 1284 described above. Using an external orientation sensor may reduce the weight required to be supported by the user.
In some forms, the control system 1276 may include at least one camera, which may be positioned to view the physical environment of the user.
In some forms, the orientation sensor 1284 is a camera, which may be configured to observe the user's physical environment in order to measure and determine the orientation of the user's head (e.g., in what direction the user's head has tilted).
In some forms, the orientation sensor 1284 includes multiple cameras positioned throughout the head-mounted display system 1000 in order to provide a more complete view of the user's physical environment, and more accurately measure the orientation of the user's head.
In some forms, the control system 1276 may include an eye sensor that can track movement of the user's eyes. For example, the eye sensor may be able to measure a position of at least one of the user's eyes, and determine which direction at least one of the user's eyes are looking.
In some forms, the control system 1276 may include two eye sensors. Each sensor may correspond to one of the user's eyes.
In some forms, the eye sensors may be disposed in or proximate to the lenses 1240.
In some forms, the eye sensors may measure an angular position of the user's ears in order to determine the visual output from the display screen 1220.
In some forms, the user's eye may act as a controller, and the user may move their eyes in order to interact with virtual objects. For example, a virtual cursor may follow the position of the user's eyes. The eye sensor may track and measure the movement of the user's eyes, and communicate with a processing system 1286 (described below) in order to move the virtual cursor.
In some forms, the control system 1276 includes a processing system 1286 (e.g., a microprocessor) that may receive the measurements from the various sensors of the control system 1276.
In some forms, the processing system 1286 may receive measurements recorded by the orientation sensor 1284 and/or the eye sensors. Based on these measured values, the processor can communicate with the display screen 1220 in order to change the image being output. For example, if the users eyes and/or the user's head pivots in the superior direction, the display screen 1220 may display a more superior portion of the virtual environment (e.g., in response to direction from the processing system 1286).
5.4 Head-Mounted Display Systems which May Comprise Separate Battery Packs
Each head-mounted display system 1000 comprises a positioning and stabilising structure 1300 configured to hold the head-mounted display unit 1200 anterior to a user's eyes such that the display is viewable by the user in use. The head-mounted display unit 1200 may also be configured to hold the battery posterior to the user's head in use.
The positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 comprises a posterior support portion 1350 configured to engage a posterior portion of a user's head, the posterior support portion 1350 in these examples comprising a parietal strap portion 1310 configured to overlie the parietal bones of the user's head in use and an occipital strap portion 1320 configured to overlie or lie below an occipital bone of the user's head in use.
In these examples, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 further comprises a pair of lateral strap portions 1330 configured to connect between the posterior support portion 1350 and the head-mounted display unit 1200, each configured to be located on a respective lateral side of the user's head in use.
The positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may further comprise a top strap portion 1340 configured to connect between the battery pack 1500 and the head-mounted display unit 1200. The top strap portion 1340 may be configured to overlie a superior portion of the user's head in use.
In the examples shown in
The parietal strap portion 1310 passes underneath the top strap portion 1340 in this example. By passing underneath, the parietal strap portion 1310 may advantageously be able to engage the user's head securely (e.g. sufficiently tightly) without limiting the ability of the top strap portion 1340 to be moved in the anterior-posterior directions.
As shown in particular in
In other examples the parietal strap portion 1310 may be immovable with respect to the top strap portion 1340. In some examples the parietal strap portion 1310 is fixedly connected to the top strap portion 1340.
As shown in
In this example, the top strap portion 1340 is adjustable in length. This may advantageously allow a user to achieve a more secure, stable and/or comfortable fit when wearing the head-mounted display system 1000. The top strap portion 1340 may be adjustable in length between the head-mounted display unit 1200 and the battery pack 1500. Alternatively or additionally, the top strap portion 1320 may be adjustable in length between the head-mounted display unit 1200 and the occipital strap portion 1320.
In this example, the top strap portion 1340 is connected to the head-mounted display unit 1200 through an eyelet 1202 connected to the head-mounted display unit 1200 and looped back and secured to itself. An end portion of the top strap portion 1340 may secure to another portion of the top strap portion 1340 with a hook-and-loop fastener connection.
In the examples shown in
As shown in
In these examples, the top strap portion comprises a textile user-facing layer 1344. That is, the user-facing layer 1344 may be formed from a textile material. Additionally or alternatively, the top strap portion 1340 may comprise a textile outer layer 1341.
In the examples shown in
Excessive compression of or interference with the user's hair may result in a lack of comfort during use or embarrassment when the user doffs the head-mounted display system. The top strap portion 1340 with an anterior portion 1345 which does not engage the user's head (e.g. does not press against the user's head) in use may at least partially address these problems or concerns. The amount of contact the anterior portion 1345 may make with a particular user's hair will depend on the length and style of the user's hair. The anterior portion 1345 may not engage the user's head but, if a user has a sufficiently long hair length and/or style, the user's hair may nevertheless contact the anterior portion 1345. However, as the anterior portion 1345 does not engage the user's head, it may not overly compress, interfere with or mess up the user's hair.
The anterior portion 1345 may not engage the user's head by, for example, not being in contact with the user's head (e.g. if it would not be in contact with the user's skin even if the user had no hair), by not pressing, wrapping and/or fitting against and/or exerting force on the user's head. The posterior portion 1346 may engage the user's head by being in contact with the user's head (e.g. if it would be in contact with the user's skin if the user had no hair), by pressing, wrapping and/or fitting against and/or exerting force on the user's head.
As shown in
As shown in
The anterior portion 1345 of the top strap portion 1340 may be connected to the posterior portion 1346 of the top strap portion 1340 at an anterior end 1347 of the posterior portion 1346.
The anterior end 1347 of the posterior portion 1346 may be located in a number of different locations with respect to the user's head, in various examples of the present technology. The anterior end 1347 may be located posteriorly to a fringe region of the user's head. For example, the anterior end 1347 may be located between a fringe region and the coronal suture of the user's head in use. In some examples the anterior end 1347 is located posteriorly to the frontal bone of the user's head in use. In some examples the anterior end 1347 is located proximate a coronal plane of the user's head in use, the coronal plane aligned with each otobasion superior of the user's head. In some examples the anterior end 1347 is located posterior to the coronal plane aligned with each otobasion superior of the user's head in use. In some examples the anterior end 1347 of the posterior portion 1346 may be located proximate a parietal strap portion 1310 of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 in use. As described above, the top strap portion 1340 may comprise a bend. The bend may be located at or proximate the anterior end 1347 of the posterior portion 1346, for example as shown in
As shown in
The top strap portion 1340 may be adjustable in length. As shown in
A user-facing layer 1344 may be user-contacting (e.g. it may be a user-contacting layer) or non-user-contacting (e.g. it may be a non-user-contacting layer). Some or all of the user-facing layer 1344 may contact the user (e.g. against their hair/head). At least some of the user-facing layer 1344 may not contact the user and/or may not engage the user's head. For example, in the
The top strap portion 1340 (e.g. both the anterior portion 1345 and posterior portion 1346) may be substantially inextensible and may comprise a layered construction. In the example shown in
In some examples a top strap portion 1340 comprising an anterior portion 1345 that does not engage the user's head comprises a power cable 1510 (not shown in
The substantially inextensible layer 1343 may be a portion of an adjustment rigidiser 1380. Adjustment rigidisers 1380 are described below, the features of which may be applied to an adjustment rigidiser forming the substantially inextensible layer 1343 of the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 shown in
It is to be understood that the top strap portion 1340 described with reference to
As shown by way of example in
The positioning and stabilising structure 1300 may be configured to hold the battery pack 1500 (or other counterweight) in a low position on the user's head. In some examples, the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 is configured to hold the battery pack 1500 in a location overlying the occipital bone of the user's head in use. In some examples of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 is configured to hold the battery pack 1500 in a location proximate the occipital bone of the user′ head and at or proximate a vertical axis of rotation of the user's head. Supporting the battery pack 1500 at a low position on the user's head may allow the battery pack 1500 to be located close to an axis of rotation of the user's head given the posterior surface of the user's head curves inwardly (anteriorly and inferiorly) towards the user's spine. The axis of rotation may be at or proximate the user's spine. Supporting the battery pack as close as possible to the axis of rotation of the user's head may advantageously keep disruptive forces on the battery pack low when the user moves rotates or moves their head vigorously, e.g. during gaming.
In the
Connecting the battery pack 1500 in this manner may advantageously allow the parietal strap portion 1310 and/or the occipital strap portion 1320 to engage the user's head unimpeded by the battery pack 1500.
The battery pack 1500 may comprise a concave inner surface configured to correspond approximately to a curvature of the user's head.
The battery pack housing may contain a counterweight 1512 configured to contribute to a balance of weight between the battery pack 1500 and the head-mounted display unit 1500, as show in
Also shown in
In the
In some examples, such as those of the examples described with reference to
As illustrated in many of the drawings referenced above, the positioning and stabilising structure is configured to hold the battery pack 1500 in an orientation in which the length of the battery pack 1500 is aligned substantially vertically in use. The length of the battery pack may be aligned with the sagittal plane of the user's head in use. As much of the weight of the battery pack 1500 is supported in use by the top strap portion 1340, a battery pack 1500 which is longer than it is wide and which is oriented with the length axis substantially vertical, may advantageous provide for a stable fit as more weight of the battery pack 1500 is aligned directly below the connection to the top strap portion than on either side of it.
In
However, in other examples of the present technology, such as the example shown in
In the
As described elsewhere, the battery pack 1500 may be connected to the top strap portion 1340 of a positioning and stabilising structure 1300 at a superior location 1501 and an inferior location 1502. As shown in the
5.4.5 Rigidised Parietal and/or Occipital Strap Portions
Also with reference to the example shown in
The occipital strap portion 1320 also may comprise a layered construction. The occipital strap portion 1320 may also be substantially inextensible. As illustrated, the occipital strap portion 1320 comprises a user-contacting layer 1328 and a substantially inextensible layer 1327. The user-contacting layer 1328 may be formed from a textile material. An anterior end of the substantially inextensible layer 1327 of the occipital strap portion 1320 may be located at or proximate a junction between the parietal strap portion 1310 and the occipital strap portion 1320.
The substantially inextensible layer 1317 of the parietal strap portion 1310 may be connected to the substantially inextensible layer 1327 of the occipital strap portion 1320 at one or both ends, for example by adhesive, overmoulding, welding, or by the substantially inextensible layers 1317 and 1327 of the two strap portions 1310 and 1320 being integrally formed with each other.
The substantially inextensible or “rigidised” parietal strap portion 1310 and occipital strap portion 1320 may provide for a stable posterior support portion 1350 as the parietal and occipital strap portions 1310, 1320 may be less likely to ride up or down on the user's head in use.
In some examples of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 may comprise one or more elastic strap portions. The elastic strap portions may complement or replace any one or more of the strap portions of the positioning and stabilising structures 1300 described herein.
In addition, the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 comprises a parietal elastic strap portion 1331 configured to be located in use overlying the parietal bones of the user's head. In this particular example a battery pack 1500 is located between the parietal elastic strap portion 1331 and the user's head (also separated by a pad 1511). The parietal elastic strap portion 1331 may help hold the battery pack 1500 against the user's head and/or help hold the head-mounted display unit 1200 against the patient's face.
Furthermore, the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 in this example comprises an occipital elastic strap portion 1333 configured to be located in use overlying the occipital bone of the user's head. The occipital strap portion 1333 may lie over the occipital strap portion 1320 and may help anchor the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 at the back of the user's head.
The positioning and stabilising structure 1300 may comprise a pair of guides on respective lateral sides of the user's head, for example located proximate and superior to the user's ear. Each guide may be located at or proximate a junction of the parietal strap portion 1310 and occipital strap portion 1320. The elastic strap portion may pass through the guide, which may advantageously hold the elastic strap portion superior to the user's ears. A junction between the parietal elastic strap portion 1331 and the occipital elastic strap portion 1333 may be located at or proximate the guide.
It is to be understood that in some examples the positioning and stabilising structure 1330 comprises elastic strap portions in only the lateral strap portions 1330, only the parietal elastic strap portions 1331, only the occipital elastic strap portions 1333 and/or any combination of these.
The top strap arms 1365 may be connected to the head-mounted display unit 1200 at pivot points 1213 and the head-mounted display unit 1200 may be able to pivot with respect to the top strap arms 1365. The top strap portion 1340 connecting to the head-mounted display unit 1200 at pivot points 1213 on either side thereof may advantageously avoid rotational forces on the head-mounted display unit 1200 when the top strap portion 1340 is tightened (e.g. if it's effective length is adjusted). As illustrated, the top strap arms 1365 may extend from the top strap portion 1340 anteriorly, laterally and inferiorly and connect to the lateral sides of the head-mounted display unit 1200.
As shown in
As described above, the head-mounted display system 1000 may comprise a power cable 1510 connected between the battery pack 1500 and the head-mounted display unit 1200.
In the example shown in
As shown in
In the
The head-mounted display unit 1200 may comprise one or more power cable retention features 1207, which may be configured to restrain position and/or orientation of the power cable 1510 within the display unit housing 1205. In the example shown in
In each of these examples, the power cable 1510 runs along (e.g. is attached to, otherwise secured at or aligned with) the top strap portion 1340 from the battery pack 1500 to the head-mounted display unit 1200 (as shown in
The power cable 1510 may run along the parietal strap portion 1310 and one of the lateral strap portions 1330 from the battery pack 1500 to the head-mounted display unit 1200 (as shown in
The power cable 1510 may run along the occipital strap portion 1320 and one of the lateral strap portions 1330 (as shown in
In some examples of the present technology, such as the example shown in
One or more layers of the top strap portion 1340 may be partially located within the battery pack 1500 and may be able to be extended from and retracted into the battery pack 1500 together with the power cable 1510.
As shown in
The portion of the power cable 1510 located within the battery pack 1500 and the one or more layers of the top strap portion 1340 partially located within the battery pack 1500 may form a retractable portion of the top strap portion 1340 able to be extended from and retracted into the battery pack 1500 to adjust a length of the top strap portion 1340 between the battery pack 1500 and the head-mounted display unit 1200. That is, power cable 1510 and one or more layers of the top strap portion 1340 may form a retractable portion that the user can extend from and retracted into the battery pack 1500. The retractable portion may comprise the outer layer 1341, the power cable 1510, and the substantially inextensible layer 1343, for example. The user-facing layer 1344 may not form part of the retractable portion. The user-facing layer 1344 may be located between the battery pack 1500 and the user's head. The user-facing layer 1344 may split from one or more other layers of the top strap portion 1340. The battery pack 1500 may slide over the user-facing layer 1344 (and any other layers not located within the battery pack 1500), to enable adjustment of the length of the top strap portion 1340 between the battery pack 1500 and the head-mounted display unit 1200 and/or to enable the position of the battery pack 1500 on the user's head to be adjusted.
In some examples of the present technology, the retractable portion of the top strap portion 1340 is able to be moved between a plurality of predetermined positions with respect to the battery pack 1500 at which the position of the retractable portion is able to be fixed with respect to the battery pack 1500. For example, the retractable portion may be moveable with respect to the battery pack 1500 between three positions corresponding to Small, Medium and Large sizes. The user may adjust the top strap portion 1340 to a chosen one of these sizes. In some examples, the top strap portion 1340 may be fixed to the head-mounted display unit 1200. In the example shown in
In other examples, the retractable portion of the top strap portion 1340 is able to be moved continuously within a range of possible positions with respect to the battery pack 1500. The retractable portion may be held in place by a locking mechanism (e.g. a spring loaded buckle or other catch) or may be held in place in use by the tension in the top strap portion 1340.
As shown in
As shown in each of
As shown in
In each of the examples shown in
As shown in
In the examples shown in
With reference to
The occipital strap portion 1320 may comprise three or more occipital strap connection points 1323, the adjustment rigidiser 1380 being selectively connectable to a first pair of the occipital strap connection points 1323 and to a second pair 1323 of the occipital strap connection points 1323. When the adjustment rigidiser 1380 is connected to the first pair of the occipital strap connection points 1323, the occipital strap portion may have a first effective length (e.g. corresponding to a small size). When the adjustment rigidiser 1380 is connected to the second pair of the occipital strap connection points 1323, the occipital strap portion may have a second effective length longer than the first effective length. (e.g. corresponding to a large size). The different connection options allow an effective length of a strap portion to be varied by the user to achieve a good fit when using the head-mounted display system 1000.
In some examples, the adjustment rigidiser 1380 constrains the occipital strap portion 1320 to the first effective length when the adjustment rigidiser 1380 is connected to the first pair of the occipital strap connection points 1320.
As shown in
The second pair of occipital strap connection points 1323b may be located medially of the first pair of occipital strap connection points 1323a.
In other examples, the occipital strap portion 1320 may comprise a left portion separated from a right portion, the adjustment rigidiser 1380 being configured to connect the left portion and the right portion.
With reference again to
In these examples, the medial rigidising portion 1381 is configured to be located in use overlying the user's occipital bone and overlying a junction between the user's parietal bones. More particularly, the medial rigidising portion 1381 is configured to be located on the user's head at or proximate the user's frontal bone, overlying a junction between the user's parietal bones and connecting to the occipital strap portion 1320.
The adjustment rigidiser 1380 may form part of the top strap portion of the positioning and stabilising structure 1300, as illustrated. The adjustment rigidiser may form a substantially inextensible layer 1343 of the top strap portion 1340.
In the example shown in
In each of the examples shown in
In the example shown in
The power cable 1510 may be permanently attached to the adjustment rigidiser 1380, as illustrated in
In the examples shown in
In general, a positioning and stabilising structure 1300 may comprise a first strap portion and a second strap portion connected by a lockable extendable connection portion 1335, which may comprise both an elastically extendable connector strap portion 1338 and a substantially inextensible connector strap portion 1336. In some examples, the substantially inextensible connector strap portion 1336 is a portion of the first strap portion.
The elastically extendable connector strap portion 1338 may be configured to allow a predetermined amount of separation of the first strap portion from the second strap portion. That is, it may elastically extend to a predetermined extent to allow the first and second strap portions to separate (this may assist a user in donning the positioning and stabilising structure 1300). The substantially inextensible connector strap portion 1336 may be configured to releaseably attach the first strap portion to the second strap portion to prevent separation of the first strap portion from the second strap portion (or at least reduce the degree of possible separation). That is, when the substantially inextensible connector strap portion 1336 attaches the first and second strap portions, it prevents them from separating as the elastically extendable connector strap portion 1338 may otherwise allow (this may secure the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 on the user's head in use). The elastically extendable connector strap portion 1338 may also advantageously hold the head-mounted display system 1000 on the user's head with sufficient stability to enable the user to make adjustments to the fit prior to connection of the substantially inextensible connector strap portion 1336.
The user may don the head-mounted display system 1000 with the first and second strap portions unattached by the substantially inextensible connector strap portion 1336 (
The substantially inextensible connector strap portion 1336 may be able to be adjusted in length. As shown in
The substantially inextensible connector strap portion 1336 in these examples comprises a magnetic clip 1339 configured to magnetically attach to a connection point 1337 on the positioning and stabilising structure 1300.
In some examples, the elastically extendable connector strap portion 1338 may connect to the head-mounted display unit 1200 at an internal surface of an arm 1210, directly to a pivot point or to a side of the head-mounted display unit 1200.
In some examples, the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 comprises a lockable extendable connection portion 1335 in each lateral strap portion 1330. As shown in
As shown in
As shown in
As shown in
In the examples shown in
In the
In the
Furthermore, as the elastically extendable connector strap portion 1338 extends and contracts, if some or all of the elastically extendable connector strap portion 1338 is located on an exterior side of the substantially inextensible strap portion 1336, any friction acting on the elastically extendable connector strap portion 1338 will be lower than if it were sandwiched between the user's head and the substantially inextensible strap portion 1336. Low friction may advantageously facilitate extension without undue resistance. In some examples of the present technology the entire elastically extendable connector strap portion 1338 is located over an exterior (e.g. non-patient contacting) side of the inextensible strap portions.
Additionally, when at least a portion of elastically extendable connector strap portion 1338 does not contact the user's head, the elastically extendable connector strap portion 1338 may be formed from, for example, a plastic or metal spring, which may be less feasible options if the elastically extendable connector strap portion 1338 contacts the user's head. Similarly, the portions of the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 that do contact the head, such as the substantially inextensible strap portion 1336 and/or a portion of the elastically extendable connector strap portion 1338, can be formed from material configured for user comfort rather than extendibility. In some examples, the elastically extendable connector strap portion 1338 may comprise a user-contacting portion and a non-user contacting portion, the non-user contacting portion being more extendable than the user-contacting portion. The user-contacting portion may be configured for comfort and may be soft, while the non-user contacting portion may be configured for extension and may be less soft.
In some examples, the hole in the substantially inextensible strap portion 1336 through which the elastically extendable connector strap portion 1338 passes may be adjacent an end of the substantially inextensible strap portion 1336, e.g. adjacent the magnetic clip 1339.
In the
In the
In other examples, the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 may comprise a lockable extendable connection portion 1335 elsewhere, such as in a parietal strap portion 1310, in a top strap portion 1340, or elsewhere.
The dial adjuster 1329 may comprise a rack and pinion assembly. The occipital strap portion 1320 may be formed in two portions (e.g. halves) connected at the dial adjuster 1329. The dial adjuster 1329 may cause two portions of the occipital strap portion 1320 to move telescopically. The dial adjuster 1329 may comprise one or more rack portions provided to the occipital strap portion 1320, for example two rack portions each provided to a respective one of two halves of the occipital strap portion 1320. The rack portions may be configured to engage a pinion or cog connected to a dial rotatable by the user. Each of the rack portions and pinion may comprise teeth, ribs or the like configured to engage with one another. Rotating the dial in a first direction (e.g. clockwise) may pull the rack portions provided to the occipital strap portion 1320 together, increasing an overlap between the two rack portions, thereby reducing an effective length of the occipital strap portion 1320. Rotating the dial in a second direction (e.g. anti-clockwise) may push the rack portions apart, reducing an overlap between the rack portions and increasing an effective length of the occipital strap portion 1320. In some examples the dial adjuster 1329 may have static torque resistance, for example provided by static friction or corresponding features such as indentations, to provide for a minimum force required to lengthen the strap portion to which the dial adjuster 1329 is connected, to avoid unintentional lengthening of the strap portion. The rack portions may be rigid portions overmoulded to flexible portions of the occipital strap portions 1320.
The dial adjuster 1329 may provide for intuitive and easy adjustment of a strap portion, allowing the user to achieve a good fit. It is to be understood that the dial adjuster 1329 may be applied to any strap portion of a head-mounted display system 1000. The dial adjuster 1329 may facilitate the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 fitting a range of user head sizes. A head-mounted display system 1000 may comprise a dial adjuster 1329 on any one or more of the occipital strap portion 1320, parietal strap portion 1310, top strap portion 1340 and one or both of the lateral strap portions 1340. More generally, a head-mounted display system 1000 may comprise an adjustment mechanism on any one or more of the occipital strap portion 1320, parietal strap portion 1310, top strap portion 1340 and one or both of the lateral strap portions 1340, or on any other strap portion. The adjustment mechanism may be a dial adjuster 1329 having any one or more of the features described above, or may be another mechanism for adjusting a length of lengths of a strap portion.
In these examples, the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 comprises a posterior support portion 1350 configured to engage a posterior portion of a user's head. The positioning and stabilising structure 1300 also comprises a pair of lateral strap portions 1330 configured to connect between the posterior support portion 1350 and the head-mounted display unit 1200, each configured to be located on a respective lateral side of the user's head in use.
Each positioning and stabilising structure 1300 also comprises a frontal support portion 1360, which may also be identified as a forehead support, configured to engage the user's head at a location overlying a frontal bone of the user's head, in use. This is shown in
The frontal support portion 1360 is connected to the head-mounted display unit 1200 in each example. The frontal support portion 1360 may be connected to the head-mounted display unit at one or more locations as will be described.
As shown in each of
The frontal connector 1362 may be formed from a flexible material. In some examples the flexible material comprises a flexible inelastic material, such as a thermoplastic material. In other examples the flexible material may comprise an elastic material, such as one of silicone, TPE or an elastic textile strap. The frontal connector 1362 may advantageously hold the head-mounted display unit 1200 steady as the user moves. A frontal connector 1362 formed from elastic material may advantageously act as a shock-absorber during active movement of the user.
In other examples, the frontal connector 1362 is formed from a substantially rigid material, such as a thermoplastic material.
The frontal support portion 1360 may additionally or alternatively be connected to the posterior support portion 1350.
With reference to
Each lateral connector 1364 may be elastically extendable. Alternatively, or additionally, each lateral connector may be adjustable in length.
Each lateral connector 1364 may be fixedly connected to the frontal support portion 1360 and releasably attachable to the posterior support portion 1350. Alternatively, each lateral connector 1364 may be releasably attachable to the frontal support portion 1360 and releasably attachable to the posterior support portion 1350. In further examples, each lateral connector 1364 may be releasably attachable to the frontal support portion 1360 and fixedly connected to the posterior support portion 1350. Each lateral connector 1364 may be connected to the posterior support portion 1350 and/or to the frontal support portion 1360 by a snap button, a clip or a hook-and-loop connection.
The lateral connectors 1364 connecting the frontal support portion 1360 to the posterior support portion 1350 (and to the occipital strap portion 1320 in this particular example) enables the frontal support portion 1360 to be held securely (e.g. sufficiently tightly) against the user's head overlying the frontal bone. In particular, this may advantageously allow the frontal support portion 1360 to support a large amount of the weight of the head-mounted display unit 1200, and hold the head-mounted display unit 1200 in position during active movement in use.
As illustrated in each of
With reference to
Each lateral connector 1364 may be elastically extendable. Alternatively, or additionally, each lateral connector may be adjustable in length.
Each lateral connector 1364 may be fixedly connected to the frontal support portion 1360 and releasably attachable to a respective one of the arms 1210. Alternatively, each lateral connector 1364 may be releasably attachable to the frontal support portion 1360 and releasably attachable to a respective one of the arms 1210. In further examples, each lateral connector 1364 may be releasably attachable to the frontal support portion 1360 and fixedly connected to a respective one of the arms 1210. Each lateral connector 1364 may be connected to a respective one of the arms 1210 and/or to the frontal support portion 1360 by a snap button, a clip or a hook-and-loop connection.
Lateral connectors 1364 connecting the frontal support portion 1360 to the arms 1210 may enable the frontal support portion 1360 to support some or all of the weight of the head-mounted display unit 1200, via the arms, optionally in addition to the frontal connector 1362, and hold the head-mounted display unit 1200 in position during active movement in use.
In this example, the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 comprises a posterior support portion 1350 configured to engage a posterior portion of a user's head and one or more anterior support portions (in this example particular example a pair of lateral strap portions 1330 and a top strap portion 1340) configured to connect the posterior support portion 1350 and the head-mounted display unit 1200 in use. In other examples the top strap portion 1340 may be omitted, or the positioning and stabilising structure may have a pair of upper lateral strap portions and a pair of lower lateral strap portions, for example.
In this example, the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 comprises a hair strap portion 1370 connected to the posterior support portion 1350. The hair strap portion 1370 may be positionable in use between the user's head and hair descending from the posterior portion of the user's head. The hair strap portion 1370 may be able to be put under the user's hair, if the user has sufficiently long hair. The hair strap portion 1370 may anchor under the hair, e.g. between the hair and neck or hair and head, to provide further stability to the head-mounted display system 1000.
As discussed above, in this example the one or more anterior support portions comprises a pair of lateral strap portions 1330 connecting the posterior support portion 1350 to the head-mounted display unit 1200.
As illustrated, the hair strap portion 1370 comprises a pair of ends 1371 and 1372 connected to respective lateral sides of the posterior support portion 1350. Each end of the hair strap portion 1370 is located proximate the Frankfort horizontal plane of the user's head in use. The hair strap portion 1370 may be removably attachable at one or both ends of the hair strap portion 1370 to the posterior support portion 1350.
In some examples, the hair strap portion 1370 comprises a left strap portion and a right strap portion removably attached to the left strap portion. The left strap portion may be removably attached to the right strap portion proximate a sagittal plane of the user's head in use. The user may separate the two strap portions and reconnect them under their hair when donning the head-mounted display system 1000.
In some examples, the hair strap portion 1370 is elastically extendable. In other examples, the hair strap portion 1370 is substantially non-extendable.
As shown in
A hair strap portion 1370 as described herein may be incorporated into any of the positioning and stabilising structures 1300, having an occipital strap portion, described herein.
The positioning and stabilising structure 1300 further has an occipital strap portion 1320 formed by a pair of lateral occipital strap portions 1321 extending from the parietal strap portion 1310, each of the lateral occipital strap portions 1321 releasably attached to a medial occipital portion 1322 configured to overlie or lie below an occipital bone of the user's head in use. In other examples the lateral occipital strap portions 1321 may not extend from a parietal strap portion 1310 and may instead extend (e.g. in a partially inferior and partially posterior direction) from another component of the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 or head-mounted display system 1000.
The parietal strap portion 1310, the medial occipital portion 1322 and the lateral occipital strap portions 1321 may form a posterior support portion 1350 configured to engage a posterior portion of a user's head in use. The parietal strap portion 1310 is configured to overlie the parietal bones of the user's head in use. The pair of lateral occipital strap portions 3122 are each configured to be located on a respective lateral side of the user's head in use. As shown in
In some examples the top strap portion 1340 connects directly to the posterior support portion 1350 (e.g. connecting directly to the parietal strap portion 1310 or occipital strap portion 1320). In other examples the top strap portion 1350 connects to the posterior support portion 1350 via another component, such as a battery pack 1500. That is, in some examples the top strap portion 1340 is connected to the posterior support portion 1350 by connecting to a battery pack 1500 which is connected to a component of the posterior support portion 1350, such as the occipital strap portion 1320.
The head-mounted display system 1000 may comprise a battery pack 1500 for powering the head-mounted display system 1000. The battery pack 1500 may be located posteriorly to the user's head in use. The battery pack 1500 may be configured to be connected to the top strap portion 1340 in use. Any features of a top strap portion 1340 and battery pack 1500 described elsewhere herein may be applied to the top strap portion 1340 and battery pack 1500 shown in
In the example illustrated, the medial occipital portion 1322 is rigidised. The medial occipital portion 1322 may comprise an occipital rigidiser. In alternative examples the medial occipital portion 1322 may comprise a flexible strap, e.g. a medial occipital portion strap. In some examples, the medial occipital portion 1322 may form part of the top strap portion 1340. The medial occipital portion 1322 may be permanently attached within the top strap portion 1340, for example permanently attached to a user-facing layer. In some examples the medial occipital portion 1322 may be secured to the top strap portion 1340, for example stitched or welded in place to a user-facing layer 1344 of the top strap portion 1340. In alternative examples, the medial occipital portion 1322 may be secured in a similar manner as described elsewhere with reference to the adjustment rigidiser 1380.
In some examples, the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 comprises a releasable fastener between each of the pair of lateral occipital strap portions 1321 and the medial occipital portion 1322. Each releasable fastener may comprise a fastener portion configured to be attached to a corresponding connection point 1337. In the
As shown in
In examples, the length of each of the lateral occipital strap portions 1321 may be adjustable. For example, each magnetic clip 1338 may have an eyelet 1202, and a portion of each of the pair of lateral occipital strap portions 1321 may be threaded through the eyelet and fastened back onto itself at a desired length.
In each of the examples shown in
5.4.18.1 Outer Layer of Top Strap Portion Separable from User-Facing Layer
In the examples shown in
An advantage of this type of configuration is that the user-facing layer 1344 of the top strap portion 1340, the parietal strap portion 1310, the occipital strap portion 1320 and lateral strap portions 1330 may form a washable portion (e.g. a washable subassembly) of the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 (washable portion shown in isolation in
The outer layer 1341 of the top strap portion 1340 may be configured to connect to a head-mounted display unit 1200 of the head-mounted display system 1000. As shown in each of
As shown by way of example in
The occipital strap portion 1320 may be removably connected to the top strap portion 1340. In the
In the
In some other examples of the present technology, the occipital strap portion 1320 is permanently connected to the top strap portion 1340, for example at the posterior end where the occipital strap portion 1320 removably connects to the top strap portion 1340 in the examples shown in
In each of the examples shown in
As described above, a head-mounted display system 1000 may comprise a power cable 1510 connected between the battery pack 1500 and the head-mounted display system 1000 in use. In the examples shown in
In these examples, the power cable 1510 is able to retract into and extend out of the battery pack 1500. The ability for the power cable 1510 to also slide within the outer sleeve 1348 enables the length of the outer sleeve 1348 and top strap portion 1340 to be adjusted without affecting the amount of slack in the power cable 1510. A power cable 1510 that can retract into and extend from the battery pack 1500 may also enable the power cable 1510 to be fixed with respect to the head-mounted display unit 1200. A power cable 1510 that does not retract into and extend from the head-mounted display unit 1200 may enable the head-mounted display unit 1200 to be kept to a small size (or at least smaller than would be required to accommodate a retractable power cable 1510). In other examples the power cable 1510 is fixed with respect to the outer sleeve 1348. In other examples the power cable 1510 does not retract into or extend from the battery pack 1500.
The washable portion of the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 may be connected to other components of the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 by hook-and-loop connections. Advantageously, this may enable the washable portion to be “peelable” away from the other parts of the head-mounted display system 1000. For example, the washable portion of the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 may be connected to the outer sleeve 1348 by one or more hook-and-loop connections 1349. For example, the user-contacting layer 1344 (part of the washable portion, at least in some examples) of the top strap portion 1340 may connect to the outer sleeve 1348 by hook-and-loop connections 1349. In the example shown in
In some examples, such as the example shown in
The outer sleeve 1348 may comprise one or more hook portions 1349a. In the example shown in
In other examples of the present technology the washable portion, which may be a user-contacting portion 1342 or user-contacting layer 1344, for example, may comprise a surface formed from unbroken loop material to which one or more hook portions 1349a are able to be attached, forming hook-and-loop connections 1349. The outer sleeve 1348 or other portion of the top strap portion 1340 comprising hook portions 1349a may then connect directly to a surface of the washable portion of the positioning and stabilising structure 1300.
In other examples, the washable portion comprises hook portions 1349a and the outer sleeve 1348 or other part of the non-washable portion comprises unbroken loop portions 1349b or a surface formed from unbroken loop material.
The above concepts relating to hook-and-loop connections within a top strap portion 1340 may be applied in other examples of the present technology as well. In some examples, a head-mounted display system 1000 is provided comprising a head-mounted display unit 1200 comprising a display, and a positioning and stabilising structure 1300 configured to hold the head-mounted display unit 1200 in an operable position on the user's head in use, as described elsewhere herein.
With reference to
The user-contacting portion 1342 and outer layer 1341 being separable from one another by hook-and-loop connections 1349 may advantageously enable the user-contacting portion 1342 to be washed separately from the outer layer 1341 and any electronics that may be connected to or form part of the outer layer 1341. Alternatively or additionally, one of the user-contacting portion 1342 or outer layer 1341 may be replaced separately of the other.
In some examples, the posterior support portion 1350 comprises a parietal strap portion 1310 configured to overlie the parietal bones of the user's head in use and an occipital strap portion 1320 configured to overlie or lie below an occipital bone of the user's head in use. However, the hook-and-loop connections between a user-contacting portion 1342 and outer layer 1341 may also be applied to other configurations of the positioning and stabilising structure 1300. The parietal strap portion 1310, the occipital strap portion 1320 and lateral strap portions 1330 may be separable from the outer layer 1341 of the top strap portion 1340 together with the user-contacting portion 1342 by separation of the hook-and-loop connections.
The top strap portion 1349 may comprise an outer sleeve 1348 forming the outer layer 1341 of the top strap portion 1340. The outer sleeve 1348 may be connected to a battery pack 1500 (in examples in which there is a battery pack 1500).
Any of the exemplary configurations of hook portions 1349a, unbroken loop portions 1349b and/or a surface formed from unbroken loop material may be applied to produce hook-and-loop connections 1349 between the outer sleeve 1348 and user-contacting portion 1342, or more generally between the outer layer 1341 and user-contacting portion 1342 or user-contacting layer 1341.
The top strap portion 1340 in this example comprises a substantially inextensible layer 1343 (e.g. a rigidiser in some examples, being at least partially rigid in the sense that it is able to at least partially hold its shape under its own weight) located between the outer layer 1341 and the user-facing layer 1344 in use. The substantially inextensible layer 1343 may be identified as a rigidiser or rigidising layer in examples in which it makes the top strap portion 1340 more rigid than it would otherwise be without the substantially inextensible layer 1343. In some examples the substantially inextensible layer 1343 is inextensible but does not substantially increase the rigidity of the top strap portion 1340. The substantially inextensible layer 1343 may facilitate the top strap portion 1340 to transfer some or all of the weight of a rear-mounted battery pack 1500 or other counterweight into an upwards force on the head-mounted display unit 1200. This may advantageously result in the user perceiving the head-mounted display unit 1200 as lighter in weight. Additionally, less tension may be required in other headgear straps (e.g. the lateral strap portions 1330) as the head-mounted display unit 1200 may not need to be pulled against the user's face with as much force as may be required if the top strap portion 1340 and/or counterweight/battery pack 1500 did not take up some of the weight of the head-mounted display unit 1200. The substantially inextensible layer 1343, top strap 1340 as a whole and presence of a counterweight may each (independently or together, as the case may be) contribute to the head-mounted display system 1000 being comfortable to the user, while providing for stability on the user's head in use, even during vigorous movement.
The substantially inextensible layer 1343 may be formed from a thermoplastic material, in some examples. In examples in which there is no rear-mounted battery pack 1500 (e.g. in which any battery is in the head-mounted display unit 1200), the substantially inextensible layer 1343 may support the head-mounted display unit 1200 by anchoring it to the posterior support portion 1350. As described above, in the examples shown in
The battery pack 1500 may be removably connected to the substantially inextensible layer 1343. The substantially inextensible layer 1343 and the battery pack 1500 may comprise corresponding fastener portions (e.g. corresponding first and second fastener portions 1503, 1504) configured to removably connect the battery pack 1500 to the substantially inextensible layer 1343. For example, as shown in
The first and second fastener portions 1503 and 1504 may be configured to snap fit together. In other examples the battery pack 1500 may connect to the substantially inextensible layer 1343 via hook-and-loop connections, may fit into a pocket or may be connected directly or indirectly to the substantially inextensible layer 1343 in another suitable manner. In the example shown in
In some examples the substantially inextensible portion 1343 is flat (as illustrated in
5.4.18.7 Washable Portion Separable from Substantially Inextensible Portion
The washable portion may be separable from the substantially inextensible layer 1343. As described above, the top strap portion 1340 comprises an outer sleeve 1348 forming the outer layer 1341. In the example shown in
In this example, when the washable portion is separated from the remainder of the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 for washing, the user-facing layer 1344 is separated from the outer sleeve 1348. The substantially inextensible layer 1343 remains within the outer sleeve 1348. The battery pack 1500 may or may not be disconnected from the substantially inextensible layer 1343, as there may be not be a need for the user to do so since the washable portion can now be washed. In some examples in which the substantially inextensible layer 1343 does not form part of the washable portion (e.g. in which the washable portion is separable from the substantially inextensible layer 1343), the battery pack 1500 may not be configured for disconnection from the substantially inextensible layer 1343 by the user.
In other examples, the substantially inextensible layer 1343 forms part of the washable portion. In the example illustrated in
In this example the user-contacting portion 1342 comprises a user-contacting sleeve 1342a. As shown in
With reference to
The user-contacting sleeve 1342 may comprise a fastener opening 1503a through which the battery pack 1500 is able to be removably attached to the substantially inextensible layer 1343. As described above, the substantially inextensible layer 1343 may comprise a first fastener portion 1503 configured to connect to a corresponding second fastener portion 1504 of the battery pack 1500. When assembled, the first fastener portion 1503 may extend through the first fastener opening 1503a, configured to connect to the second fastener portion 1504, thereby configured to connect the substantially inextensible layer 1343 to the battery pack 1500.
The battery pack 1500 may cover either or both of the rigidiser opening 1343a and the fastener opening 1503a in use.
In the example shown in
The user-contacting sleeve 1342a and/or outer sleeve 1348 may each be formed from a textile material and may be formed by cutting a textile sheet (e.g. by die cutting, ultrasonic cutting or RF cutting), folding it into a tubular shape and ultrasonically welding the seam along the length of the sleeve, along with any other edges. The sleeve may be turned inside out such that any sharp welded edge is provided on the inside and the outside is advantageously free of sharp edges that may result in discomfort in use or an unsightly appearance. Any other suitable manner of forming the user-contacting sleeve 1342a and outer sleeve 1348. Hook or loop portions for forming hook-and-loop connections may be welded or sewn onto the textile material. In other examples the textile material may be stitched to form a tubular shape. In other examples the substantially inextensible layer 1343 may not be encapsulated by a user-contacting sleeve and may instead be provided to the user-contacting portion 1342 by being secured to a user-facing layer 1344 (e.g. adhered, fastened by hook-and-loop connections, inset, overmoulded or otherwise connected).
The outer sleeve 1348 and/or user-contacting sleeve 1342a may be formed from a material that is elastic or inelastic, may be formed from a soft material that is comfortable if it contacts the user, is washable (e.g. machine-washable) and/or is formed from a material conducive to wicking moisture away from the user's face or head. In some examples the sleeves (i.e. outer sleeve 1348 and/or user-contacting sleeve 1342a) are formed from any one of elastane, TPE or nylon. The sleeves may be formed from an elastic material which, in the case of the user-contacting sleeve 1342a, facilitates insertion of the substantially inextensible layer 1343. The sleeves may be formed from a low-friction material (or a material having a low friction interior surface) which, in the case of the outer sleeve 1348, facilitates movement of a power cable 1510 within the outer sleeve 1348 during adjustment of the length of the outer sleeve 1348.
As described above, the head-mounted display system 1000 may comprise a power cable 1510 connected between the battery pack 1500 and the head-mounted display unit 1200. As shown in both the
The battery pack 1500 may also comprise a cable guide 1530 configured to guide the power cable 1510. As shown in
The cable guide 1530 may comprise one or more teeth 1533 configured to engage the top strap portion 1340, for example a plurality of teeth 1533. In this example the cable guide 1530 comprise three teeth 1533. As described above the top strap portion may comprise an outer sleeve 1348 forming the outer layer of the top strap portion 1340 and the outer sleeve 1348 may be connected to the battery pack 1500. The power cable 1510 may be located within the outer sleeve 1348 and may be able to slide within the outer sleeve 1348 along a length of the outer sleeve 1348. The teeth 1533 of the cable guide 1530 may be configured to engage the outer sleeve 1348 to fix the outer sleeve 1348 to the battery pack 1500. The teeth 1533 may be located on the elongate portion 1531 of the cable guide 1530 and may face outwardly with respect to the elongate portion 1531. The teeth 1533 of the cable guide 1530 may be configured to clamp the outer sleeve 1348 against the battery pack base 1525.
In some examples, at least a portion of the elongate portion 1531 of the cable guide 1530 is located within the outer sleeve 1348 in use. The cable guide mount 1526 of the battery pack base 1525 may comprise one or more teeth 1527 configured to engage the top strap portion 1340, as shown in
With reference to
The battery pack 1500 in the example shown in
As shown in
As shown in
With reference to
As shown in
Also as illustrated in
In some examples, the cable guide 1530 comprises a fabric sleeve 1534, as shown in
As shown in
With reference to
In some examples, one or more portions of the power cable 1510 between the service loop 1513 and one or more battery cells 1502 to which the power cable is connected are fixed in place within the battery pack 1500, for example with an adhesive or a bracket fixed to the battery pack base 1525, battery pack housing 1505 or other component of or within the battery pack 1500. As shown in
As shown in
While in some examples of the present technology, arms 1210 of a head-mounted display unit 1200 may extend from an outside of a display unit housing, in some examples of the present technology, arms 1210 may extend from inside of a head-mounted display unit 1200.
As shown in
The head-mounted display unit 1200 may further comprise a pair of arms 1210, as shown in
In the example shown in
As shown in
Each of the arms 1210 may comprise an eyelet 1212 configured to receive a respective one of the lateral strap portions 1330 of the positioning and stabilising structure 1300. The eyelet 1212 of each arm may be located at or proximate a posterior end of the respective arm 1210.
Each of the pair of arms 1210 may be able to pivot with respect to the display unit housing 1205.
As shown in
In another example of the present technology, as shown in
In this example each pivot point 1213 is a theoretical/imaginary pivot point about which an arm 1210 rotates. The pivot points 1213 in this example are not points at which the arms 1213 are connected to the display unit housing 1205, but are points in space about which the arms 1210 rotate due to their connections to the display unit housing 1205 at other locations. In particular, each arm 1210 is slidably connected to the display unit housing 1205 at a location spaced from its respective pivot point 1213.
As shown in
Each of the arms 1210 comprises an eyelet 1212 configured to receive a respective lateral strap portion 1330 of a positioning and stabilising structure 1300. In this example the eyelet 1212 of each arm 1210 is located at or proximate a posterior end of the respective arm 1212, as illustrated in
In
The guides 1219 and arms 1210 may comprise any configuration which allows the arms 1210 to slide along the guides 1219 but restrains movement of the arms 1210 to pivoting/rotation about the pivot point 1213. The guides 1219 and arms 1210 may comprise complementary configurations. The guides 1219 and arms 1210 may connect in a complementary or male-female relationship, such as in the examples shown in
Alternatively, the connection between the arms 1210 and guides 1219 may not itself prevent separation of the arms 1210 from the guides 1219.
The use of guides 1219 for the arms 1210 may advantageously allow the arms 1210 to be short, which may allow ample space for other components of the head-mounted display unit 1200 proximate the arms 1210.
The arms 1210 and head-mounted display unit 1200 of the examples of the present technology shown in
In some examples, each of the arms 1210 has a predetermined resistance to pivotal movement with respect to the display unit housing 1205. As depicted in
In some examples, each of the arms 1210 comprises one or more first engagement features 1232 configured to engage sequentially with a plurality of second engagement features 1233 of the head-mounted display unit 1200 (e.g. of the display unit housing 1205, of an arm mounting portion 1215 or of another component) during pivoting of the arms 1210 between the predetermined incremental orientations.
Each of the arms 1210 may comprise a single first engagement feature 1232, as shown in
In some examples, each of the arms 1210 comprises a plurality of first engagement features 1232 configured to engage with one or more second engagement features 1233 of the head-mounted display unit 1200, the one or more second engagement features 1233 being configured to engage sequentially with the first engagement features 1232 during pivoting of the arms 1210 between the predetermined incremental orientations.
In some examples, the first engagement features 1232 are protrusions and the second engagement features 1233 are recesses. In other examples, the first engagement features 1232 are recesses and the second engagement features 1233 are protrusions. The first and second engagement features may be complementary, for example male and female features.
In some examples, each arm 1210 comprises a hub portion 1230 pivotably connected to the display unit housing 1205 (e.g. directly or via an arm mounting portion 1215) and an elongate portion 1231 extending from the hub portion 1230. In some examples, such as those shown in
The display unit housing 1205 in the
In some examples, each arm 1210 is configured to deform to allow the one or more first engagement features 1232 to move sequentially between the second engagement features 1233 during pivoting of the arms 1210, as depicted in
In some examples, each arm 1210 comprises a spring 1236 configured to bias the elongate portion 1231 of the arm 1210 towards the second engagement features 1233 such that the one or more first engagement features 1231 are biased into engagement with the second engagement features 1232. In
In the example shown in
In some examples, such as those shown in
The first engagement features 1232 in some examples are provided to a deformable portion of the hub portion 1230, the deformable portion being configured to deform to allow the first engagement features 1232 to move sequentially between second engagement features 1233 when the arm 1210 is pivoted. As shown in
In some examples, such as shown in
In some examples, the first engagement features 1232 of the arm 1210 form a snap-fit connection to the head-mounted display unit 1200 to connect the arm 1210 to the head-mounted display unit 1200, as shown in
In some examples, the first engagement features 1232 face away from the hub portion 1230 of the arm 1210 and towards the second engagement features 1233 in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation of the arm 1210 (e.g. an axis through the pivot point 1213), as shown in
In another example, each of the arms 1210 is connected to the display unit housing 1205 such that a predetermined static torque resistance is required to be overcome for each arm 1210 to pivot with respect to the display unit housing 1205. In some examples, the predetermined static torque resistance is provided by static friction. The static friction may act between each arm 1210 and a respective portion of the display unit housing 1205 or respective arm mounting portion 1215 (to be described below).
In some examples, the head-mounted display system 1000 comprises a pair of friction rings 1220 (e.g. O-rings, washers or the like).
As shown in
The friction ring 1220 may be attached to or received in the hub portion 1230 of the arm 1210. In this example a bolt 1221 and nut 1222 secure the arm 1210 to the arm mounting portion 1215. The nut 1222 may be received in or attached to the hub portion 1230 of the arm 1210. A portion of the bolt 1221 may extend through the hub portion 1230 of the arm 1210 and may define the pivot point 1213. The friction rings 1220 may be formed from a high-friction material and/or clamped to result in the desired friction and predetermined static torque resistance.
The arms 1210 may have a length such that the posterior end of each arm 1210 is located proximate a respective one of the user's ears.
As shown in
As shown in
In some examples, at the point along the length of each arm 1210 located interior to the display unit housing 1205, the major axis MA of the transverse cross sectional shape has a superomedial-inferolateral orientation in use. This is the orientation shown in
In some examples, each of the arms 1210 is shaped such that the major axis MA of the transverse cross section changes orientation along the length of the arm 1210. For example, the shape or cross sectional orientation of each arm 1210 may have one orientation inside of the head-mounted display unit 1200 (e.g. a major axis MA having a superomedial-inferolateral orientation) and another orientation outside of the head-mounted display unit 1200 (e.g. a vertical orientation). In some examples, at a point along the length of each arm 1210 located exterior to the display unit housing 1205, the major axis MA is oriented substantially parallel to the sagittal plane of the user's head in use.
A head-mounted display system 1000 having arms 1200 as described with reference to
In some examples of the present technology, the head-mounted display unit 1200 comprises a pair of electronics volumes 1203.
As shown in
In some examples the electronics volume 1203 comprises an audio speaker. In other examples the electronics volume may alternatively or additionally contain one or more of a sensor, a battery and processor.
With reference to
The head-mounted display unit 1200 may also comprise a pair of elastic connectors 1250. Each elastic connector 1250 may be configured to form an elastic connection connecting a respective one of the lateral strap portions 1330 to a respective one of the arms 1210. The elastic connectors 1250 may be configured to stretch during donning and doffing of the head-mounted display system 1000 when the lateral strap portions 1330 are not directly attached to the arms 1210 while maintaining the elastic connection between the lateral strap portions 1330 and the arms 1210. Advantageously, this may enable the head-mounted display system 1000 to be donned and doffed without the lateral strap portions 1330 becoming completely disconnected from the head-mounted display unit 1200. The stretchable nature of the elastic connectors 1250 may enable some tension to be maintained in the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 during donning and doffing, which may advantageously hold the head-mounted display unit 1200 on the user's head while the user tightens headgear straps, and may avoid the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 from slipping, falling or otherwise coming out of position unintentionally.
With reference to
5.7 Headgear Buckle Integrated into Interface Structure
With reference to
In the
As shown in
The top strap portion 1340 may pass through the eyelet 3812, loop back and secure to itself, e.g. with a hook-and-loop fastening, a buckle, a magnetic connection or the like.
The chassis 3802 may be a substantially rigid portion and may be formed from a thermoplastic material or an elastomer, such as a high durometer elastomer.
In some embodiments, two or more of the chassis, support structure and face engaging surfaces of the interfacing structure can be integrally formed as a single component comprising varying thicknesses and finishes thereacross so as to provide the desired level of rigidity at the chassis or desired level of cushioning effect at the face engaging surfaces. For example, in some such embodiments, the interfacing structure can be formed from a singular silicone body. For example,
In some forms of the present technology, an interfacing structure may comprise a face engaging portion constructed from a flexible and resilient material (for example, an elastomer such as silicone), supported by a more rigid support portion (for example, constructed from a plastics material). In embodiments the rigid support portion may comprise a chassis.
For example, with reference to
In a further example, with reference to
In a further example, with reference to
In some forms of the present technology, the interfacing structure may comprise a foam portion supported by the resilient and flexible face engaging portion, wherein the foam portion provides the face engaging surface.
For example, with reference to
In some forms of the present technology, the interfacing structure may comprise a textile layer provided to the resilient and flexible face engaging portion, wherein the textile layer provides the face engaging surface.
For example, with reference to
In some forms of the present technology, an interfacing structure may comprise a face engaging portion supported by a more rigid support portion (for example, constructed from a plastics material), wherein the face engaging portion comprises a foam cushion and an elastomeric cover over the foam cushion.
For example, with reference to
In another example, with reference to
In examples, such as that illustrated in
In another example, with reference to
In some forms of the present technology, an interfacing structure may be provided in which support structure and face engaging portions of the interfacing structure may be integrally formed as a single component comprising varying thicknesses so as to provide the desired levels of rigidity and/or cushioning effect at the face engaging surfaces.
For example,
In the example shown in
In some forms of the present technology, an interfacing structure may be provided in which the face engaging portion of the interfacing structure is configured to be biased towards engagement with a user's face, in use. In embodiments, only selected regions of the face engaging portion may be biased towards engagement with a user's face. In embodiments, the interfacing structure may be shaped such that, when unloaded, regions of the face engaging portion extend towards the user at an angle non-parallel to the surface of the user's face with which the face engaging portion is intended to engage. With reference to
In embodiments it may be desirable to provide such “pre-loading” in select regions. Referring to
In some forms of the present technology, an interfacing structure may comprise a chassis configured to permit airflow into, and from, the space between the interfacing structure and the user. Heat may be generated during use, for example, as the result of user activity, and/or emitted from the electronic components of the head-mounted display unit 1200. This heat may build up within this space and cause discomfort to the user. Enabling airflow to and from this space may assist with providing a cooling effect for the user.
In an example, with reference to
Referring to
In examples, reinforcing may be provided between the main chassis portion 3804 and each side chassis portion 3806. For example, as shown in
A face engaging portion 3810 is provided to the chassis 3802. In an example, the face engaging portion 3810 may be a singular structure, such as described with reference to
In examples, the face engaging portion 3810 may be integral with the chassis 3802 to provide a singular component. The singular component comprising the face engaging portion 3810 and the chassis 3802 may be releasably fastened to the display unit 3820, such as to the mounting plate 3284. For example, a releasable fastening arrangement may be provided comprising one or more of: hook-and-loop fastening means, magnetic fastening means, and clips or retainers that allow a friction, interference, snap or other mechanical fixing arrangement.
The chassis 3802 comprises a lateral opening 3808 in each side chassis portion 3806. One or more gaps between the housing of the display unit 3820 and the interfacing structure 3800 permit air to flow through the lateral openings 3808 to and from the external environment (as indicated by the dashed arrows in
In examples, one or more superior openings may be provided in the chassis 3802, permitting airflow between the external environment and the space within the interfacing structure 3800. In examples, one or more inferior openings may be provided in the chassis 3802, permitting airflow between the external environment and the space within the interfacing structure 3800. In examples, the chassis 3802 may comprise one or more of: a lateral opening 3808, a superior opening, and an inferior opening.
In this example, each of the side chassis portions 3806 is biased medially towards the user's head to bias the face engaging portion 3810 into contact with the user's head on each side of the user's head at or proximate the user's sphenoid bone. That is, the side chassis portions 3806 are biased inwards to cause the face engaging portion 3810 to engage lateral-facing surfaces of the user's head lateral to eyes (e.g. at or proximate the user's sphenoid bone).
The chassis 3802 may be flexible (e.g. as a whole or having particular flexible portions) allowing the side chassis portions 3806 to be spread laterally to a splayed configuration by the user's head and biased medially towards an unsplayed configuration in use. The side chassis portions 3806 may be flexible so as to flex or pivot with respect to the main chassis portion 3804 allowing the side chassis portions 3806 to be spread laterally to a splayed configuration by the user's head and biased medially towards an unsplayed configuration in use.
In some examples, the side chassis portions 3806 are able to flex or pivot with respect to the main chassis portion 3804 allowing the side chassis portions 3806 to be spread laterally to a splayed configuration by the user's head and biased medially towards an unsplayed configuration in use, each side chassis portion 3806 biased medially by a biasing component.
The biasing component may comprise a spring element configured to pull each side chassis portion 3806 medially. In other examples, the biasing component comprises a spring element configured to push each side chassis portion 3806 medially.
The face engaging portion 3810 may have one of the configurations described herein in relation to a portion of an interfacing structure which engages the user's face. The face engaging portion 3810 may comprise a face engaging flange. The face engaging flange may curve inwardly from the chassis 3804. The face engaging flange is formed from silicone.
In some examples, the chassis 3802 comprises at least one opening 3808 between the main chassis portion 3804 and each side chassis portion 3806. In some examples the head-mounted display unit 1200 comprises a display unit housing, and an air pathway is provided between the interfacing structure 3800 and the display unit housing through the at least one opening 3808.
5.11 Positioning and Stabilising Structure that Connects to Interfacing Structure
In some examples of the present technology, a head-mounted display system 1000 comprises a positioning and stabilising structure 1300 (e.g. one or more straps) that connects to an interfacing structure 3800 of the head-mounted display unit 1200 of the head-mounted display system 1000 (e.g. straps connect to the interfacing structure 3800 instead of a display unit housing 1205).
5.12 Positioning and Stabilising Structure that Pulls Sides Inwards
The head-mounted display systems 1000 each further comprise a positioning and stabilising structure 1300 comprising a posterior support portion 1350 configured to engage a posterior portion of a user's head, and a pair of lateral strap portions configured to connect the posterior support portion 1350 and the head-mounted display unit 1200 in use. In the example shown in
In each example, the positioning and stabilising structure 1300 is connected to the head-mounted display unit 1200 such that in use the side chassis portions 3806 are urged medially towards the user's head by the lateral strap portions, to urge the face engaging portion 3810 into contact with the user's head on each side of the user's head at or proximate the user's sphenoid bone.
As illustrated, each lateral strap portion may be configured to connect to a respective one of the side chassis portions 3806. Each lateral strap portion may be configured to pull the respective side chassis portion 3806 rearwardly causing the side chassis portion 3806 to flex or pivot medially to urge the face engaging portion 3810 into contact with the user's head at or proximate the user's sphenoid bone.
In other examples, each lateral strap portion may be configured to push the respective side chassis portion 3806 medially causing the side chassis portion 3806 to flex or pivot medially to urge the face engaging potion 3810 into contact with the user's head at or proximate the user's sphenoid bone. For example, each lateral strap portion may be configured to push the respective side chassis portion 3806 medially via a substantially rigid member (e.g. an arm) or a portion of the side chassis portion 3806 in contact with the lateral strap portion.
As shown in
As shown in
In some forms of the present technology, an interfacing structure may comprise a chassis, wherein one or more of a support portion and/or a face engaging portion of the interfacing structure, or portions thereof, may be releasably attached to the chassis.
It is envisaged that the ability to releasably attach the support portion and/or face engaging portion may assist with one or more of: cleaning of the interfacing structure, replacement of components thereof, and/or selection of characteristics of the components (for example, level of hardness or softness, surface finish or material, shape, and/or size).
In an example, the releasably attached portion of the interfacing structure may be provided at discrete locations to the chassis, i.e. may not extend along the entire periphery of the chassis. For example, the releasably attached portion(s) may be provided in one or more of: a forehead region, and/or one or more cheek regions, of the interfacing structure. In alternative examples the releasably attached portion of the interfacing structure may be provided to the entire periphery of the chassis, or at least a substantial portion thereof.
In examples, a releasably attached portion of the interfacing structure may be made of one or more of: a foam material, an elastomeric material, a textile material, or a composite material.
In an example, the interfacing structure may comprise at least one elastomeric portion, and at least one foam portion. In an example, the at least one foam portion may be attached to the interfacing structure such that the elastomeric portion covers the foam portion to provide a face engaging surface. In an example, the at least one foam portion may be attached to the chassis, the elastomeric portion, or both the chassis and the elastomeric portion.
In examples, a portion of the support portion and/or face engaging portion of the interfacing structure may be permanently attached to the chassis (e.g. integrally moulded) at select locations. Spaces may be provided in which the removeable portions may be positioned and attached relative to the chassis.
In some forms of the present technology, an interfacing structure may comprise a face engaging portion supported by a more rigid support portion, wherein the face engaging portion comprises a first foam portion and the support portion comprises a second foam portion.
For example, with reference to
In examples, the first foam and the second foam may be made of the same material, but at different densities. In examples the first foam may have a first density, and the second foam may have a second density lower than the first density. In examples, the foam may be a viscoelastic foam or polyurethane foam.
In examples the face engaging portion 6504 may comprise a raw foam. In examples, e.g. as illustrated by
In examples, as shown in
In some forms of the present technology, an interfacing structure may comprise a support portion and a face engaging portion integrally formed as a single component, the support portion and the face engaging portion being made of a foam material.
For example, with reference to
In examples, the integral form of the support portion 6602 and the face engaging portion 6604 may be thermoformed.
In examples the interfacing structure 6600 may comprise a raw foam. In alternative examples, e.g. as illustrated by
In some forms of the present technology an interfacing structure may comprise a flexible and resilient face engaging portion, the face engaging portion having a curved cross-section, wherein the face engaging portion comprises at least one closed loop portion having an enclosed cross-section.
For example, with reference to
The cheek portions 3840 further comprise a loop portion 3850. In this example, the loop portion 3850 comprises an anterior loop portion 3852, which is secured to the anterior portion 3846 of the base portion 3842 (for example, using an adhesive). The loop portion 3850 further comprises an arcuate portion 3854 extending in the posterior direction from the anterior loop portion 3852. The loop portion 3850 further comprises a loop flange 3856 extending from the arcuate portion 3854 in the posterior direction. The cross-section of the arcuate portion 3854 tapers off between the arcuate portion 3854 and the loop flange 3856. While not illustrated, the loop flange 3856 is inserted into the base portion 3842, and secured to the anterior facing surface 3848 of the anterior portion 3846. In doing so, the loop flange 3856 overlaps the base portion 3842 to provide a closed loop.
In the example illustrated, the base portion 3842 and the loop portion 3842 are manufactured as separate parts and are secured together via anterior loop portion 3852. In an alternative example the anterior loop portion 3852 may be integrally formed with the base portion 3842 (i.e. the loop portion 3850 would extend from the base portion 3842).
In some forms of the present technology an interfacing structure may comprise a face engaging portion, wherein the face engaging portion comprises a light-blocking nasal portion spanning between cheek portions of the face engaging portion.
For example, with reference to
The nasal portion 3880 comprises a first and second bridge portions 3886 extending in a superior direction from the pronasal portion 3882. A central slot 3888 extends between the bridge portions 3886 from a posterior edge of the nasal portion 3880 towards the pronasale portion 3882. Outer slots 3890 are provided between the bridge portions 3886 and the loop portions 3850, extending to the ala portions 3884. As a result, the bridge portions 3886 act like flaps, and rest on the sides of the user's nose bridge in use. Lifting of the bridge portions 3886, when resting on the user, encourages overlapping of the bridge portions to encourage the light blocking effect.
In some forms of the present technology an interfacing structure may comprise a face-engaging portion configured to engage the user's face in use, and a chassis connected to the face-engaging portion, the chassis releasably attached to a chassis mounting portion of the head-mounted display unit.
For example, with reference to
Referring to
In the example illustrated, the head-mounted display unit 1200 comprises a mounting plate 8100 having an integral chassis mounting portion 8200 extending in a posterior direction. In alternative examples, the chassis mounting portion 8200 may be provided as a separate part, secured to the mounting plate 8100. The chassis mounting portion 8200 comprises mounting catch portions 8210 configured to engage the chassis catch portions 8010 to releasably attach the chassis 8000 to the chassis mounting portion 8200.
As shown in
The chassis catch portion 8010 comprises a catch projection 8014. A catch arm extends from the main body 8001 to the catch projection 8014. The catch projection 8014 comprises a posterior facing catch surface 8016. The posterior facing catch surface 8016 is angled in a radially outward anterior direction (indicated by reference numeral 8018). The catch projection 8014 further comprises an anterior facing guide surface 8020, angled in a radially inward anterior direction from the posterior facing catch surface 8016. The catch flange 8022 extends in a radially inward anterior direction from the catch projection 8010.
The mounting catch portion 8210 comprises an anterior facing catch surface 8216, angled in a radially inward anterior direction. The mounting catch portion 8210 further comprises a posterior facing guide surface 8220, and a transition surface 8222 between the posterior facing guide surface 8220 and the anterior facing catch surface 8216. The transition surface 8222 is angled in a radially inward posterior direction from the anterior facing catch surface 8216, with an acute angle therebetween providing a catch edge 8222.
In use, the chassis 8000 is inserted into the chassis mounting portion 8200 in the anterior directions, with the anterior facing guide surface 8020 bearing against the posterior facing guide surface 8220 and causing the catch projection 8014 to ride over the mounting catch portion 8210 until the catch projection 8014 passes the transition surface 8222.
A gap 8030 is provided between the posterior facing catch surface 8016 and the anterior facing catch surface 8216 in the posterior-anterior direction, when the chassis 8000 is fully inserted into the chassis mounting portion 8200. The anterior facing catch surface 8216 (more particularly catch edge 8222) acts against the posterior facing catch surface 8016 to resist inadvertent release of the chassis 8000.
When the user desires to remove the chassis 8000, force may be applied to the catch flange 8022 in a radially inward direction and the chassis 8000 pulled in the posterior direction. The angle 8018 of posterior facing catch surface 8016, in conjunction with the force applied to the catch flange, encourages the catch projection 8014 to ride over the catch edge 8222 and release the chassis 8000.
In this example, the chassis 8000 is secured to the display unit housing 1205. The side connector portions 8050 comprise a receiver slot 8052 in which an edge of the display unit housing 1205 is received, with a standoff member 8054 maintaining a desired spacing between the chassis 8000 and the display unit housing 1205. An external flange 8056 of the side connector portions 8050 comprises a locating feature 8058 configured to interact with a compatible feature (not illustrated) of the display unit housing 1205.
The forehead connector portion 8070 is configured to interact with a forehead locator 8080 having a locator body member 8082 with a tab receiving portion 8084. The tab receiving portion 8084 comprises a receiving slot 8086 and an inferior slot member 8088. The forehead connector portion 8070 comprises a tab 8072 having a tab locating feature 8074. In use, the tab 8072 is inserted into the receiving slot 8086, with the inferior slot member 8088 acting against the tab locating feature 8074 to resist inadvertent withdrawal.
In this example, the forehead locator 8080 comprises an eyelet 3812, and the display unit housing 1205 comprises an eyelet slot 8090. The forehead locator 8080 is located relative the display unit housing 1205 by insertion of the eyelet 3812 through the eyelet slot 8090, and the chassis 8000 secured through insertion of the tab 8072 into the receiving slot 8086.
In some forms of the present technology a tortuous airflow path may be provided between an interior of the interfacing structure and an exterior of the head-mounted display unit, wherein the tortuous airflow path passes between an exterior of the interfacing structure and an interior of the display unit housing. As noted above, enabling airflow to and from the space within the interior of the interfacing structure may assist with providing a cooling effect for the user.
For example, with reference to
Alternative or additional airflow paths are also contemplated. For example, referring to
In some forms of the present technology, as shown in
In examples, one or more interface airports 8220 may be provided in one or more inferior portions of the face engaging portion 3810—i.e. the cheek portions proximal to the user's cheeks in use. In examples, one or more interface airports 8220 may be provided in one or more inferior portions of the face engaging portion 3810 and the superior portion of the face engaging portion 3810.
In examples, one or more interface airports 8220 may be provided in at least one side portion of the face engaging portion 3810—i.e. the portions proximate the user's sphenoid regions in use. It should be appreciated that interface airports 8220 may be provided in the at least one side portion in place of, or in addition to, interface airports 8220 in the superior portion and/or inferior portion.
5.19.1 Head-Mounted Display System without Battery Pack
5.19.2 Further Head-Mounted Display Systems which May be Particularly Configured to Tolerate Long Hair
In some forms, the head-mounted display system 1000 or at least a portion thereof, is designed to be used by a single user, and cleaned in a home of the user, e.g., washed in soapy water, without requiring specialised equipment for disinfection and sterilisation. Specifically, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and the interfacing structure 1100 are designed to be cleaned, as they are both in direct contact with the user's head.
In some other forms, the components of the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 and interfacing structure 1100 are used in labs, clinics and hospitals wherein a single head-mounted display may be reused on multiple persons or used during medical procedures. In each of the labs, clinics and hospitals the head-mounted displays, or relevant components thereof, can be reprocessed and be exposed to, for example, processes of thermal disinfection, chemical disinfection and sterilisation. As such, the design of the positioning and stabilizing structure and interfacing structure may need to be validated for disinfection and sterilisation of the mask in accordance with ISO17664.
Materials may be chosen to withstand reprocessing. For example, robust materials may be used in the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 to withstand exposure to high level disinfection solutions and agitation with a brush. Further, some components of the positioning and stabilizing structure are separable, and in-use may be disconnected to improve the reprocessing efficacy.
In some examples, the interfacing structure 1100 may, in use, be in contact with the user's head and therefor may become dirty (e.g., from sweat). The interfacing structure 1100 may be designed to be removed from the display unit housing 1205, to provide the ability to remove it for cleaning and/or replacement. It may be desirable to wash the interfacing structure 1100 while not getting the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 wet. Alternatively or in addition, the positioning and stabilizing structure 1300 may be dirty from contact with the user's head, and may be removed for cleaning and/or replacement independently of the interfacing structure 1100. In either case, this may be facilitated by allowing these components to disconnect for such a purpose.
In some examples, a cover (e.g., constructed from a textile, silicone, etc.) may be removably positioned over the interfacing structure and can be removed to be cleaned and/or replaced after each use. The cover may allow the interface structure 3400 to remain fixed to the display unit housing 1205, and still provide a surface that can be easily cleaned after being used.
In some forms, the head-mounted display system 1000 (e.g., VR, AR, and/or MR) may be used in conjunction with a separate device, like a computer or video game console. For example, the display interface may be electrically connected to the separate device.
In some forms, at least some processing for the head-mounted display system 1000 may be performed by the separate device. The separate device may include a larger and/or more powerful processor than could be comfortably supported by the user (e.g., the processor of the separate device may be too heavy for the user to comfortably support on their head).
For the purposes of the present technology disclosure, in certain forms of the present technology, one or more of the following definitions may apply. In other forms of the present technology, alternative definitions may apply.
Ambient: In certain forms of the present technology, the term ambient will be taken to mean (i) external of the display interface and/or user, and (ii) immediately surrounding the display interface and/or user.
For example, ambient light with respect to a display interface may be the light immediately surrounding the user, e.g. the light in the same and/or adjacent room as a user, and/or natural light from the sun.
In certain forms, ambient (e.g., acoustic) noise may be considered to be the background noise level in the room where a user is located, other than for example, noise generated by the display device or emanating from speakers connected to the display device. Ambient noise may be generated by sources outside the room.
Leak: The word leak will be taken to be an unintended exposure to light. In one example, leak may occur as the result of an incomplete seal between a display unit and a users' face.
Noise, radiated (acoustic): Radiated noise in the present document refers to noise which is carried to the user by the ambient air. In one form, radiated noise may be quantified by measuring sound power/pressure levels of the object in question according to ISO 3744.
User: A person operating the display interface and/or viewing images provided by the display interface. For example, the person may be wearing, donning, and/or doffing the display interface.
Silicone or Silicone Elastomer: A synthetic rubber. In this specification, a reference to silicone is a reference to liquid silicone rubber (LSR) or a compression moulded silicone rubber (CMSR). One form of commercially available LSR is SILASTIC (included in the range of products sold under this trademark), manufactured by Dow Corning. Another manufacturer of LSR is Wacker. Unless otherwise specified to the contrary, an exemplary form of LSR has a Shore A (or Type A) indentation hardness in the range of about 35 to about 45 as measured using ASTM D2240
Polycarbonate: a thermoplastic polymer of Bisphenol-A Carbonate.
Resilience: Ability of a material to absorb energy when deformed elastically and to release the energy upon unloading.
Resilient: Will release substantially all of the energy when unloaded. Includes e.g. certain silicones, and thermoplastic elastomers.
Hardness: The ability of a material per se to resist deformation (e.g. described by a Young's Modulus, or an indentation hardness scale measured on a standardised sample size).
Stiffness (or rigidity) of a structure or component: The ability of the structure or component to resist deformation in response to an applied load. The load may be a force or a moment, e.g. compression, tension, bending or torsion. The structure or component may offer different resistances in different directions. The inverse of stiffness is flexibility.
Floppy structure or component: A structure or component that will change shape, e.g. bend, when caused to support its own weight, within a relatively short period of time such as 1 second.
Rigid structure or component: A structure or component that will not substantially change shape when subject to the loads typically encountered in use. An example of such a use may be setting up and maintaining a user interface in sealing relationship.
As an example, an I-beam may comprise a different bending stiffness (resistance to a bending load) in a first direction in comparison to a second, orthogonal direction. In another example, a structure or component may be floppy in a first direction and rigid in a second direction.
Closed-cell foam: Foam comprising cells that are completely encapsulated, i.e. closed cells.
Elastane: A polymer made from polyurethane.
Elastomer: A polymer that displays elastic properties. For example, silicone elastomer.
Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA): A copolymer of ethylene and vinyl acetate.
Fiber: A filament (mono or poly), a strand, a yarn, a thread or twine that is significantly longer than it is wide. A fiber may include animal-based material such as wool or silk, plant-based material such as linen and cotton, and synthetic material such as polyester and rayon. A fiber may specifically refer to a material that can be interwoven and/or interlaced (e.g., in a network) with other fibers of the same or different material.
Foam: Any material, for example polyurethane, having gas bubbles introduced during manufacture to produce a lightweight cellular form.
Neoprene: A synthetic rubber that is produced by polymerization of chloroprene. Neoprene is used in trade products: Breath-O-Prene.
Nylon: A synthetic polyamide that has elastic properties and can be used, for example, to form fibres/filaments for use in textiles.
Open-cell foam: Foam comprising cells, i.e. gas bubbles that aren't completely encapsulated, i.e. open cells.
Polycarbonate: a typically transparent thermoplastic polymer of Bisphenol-A Carbonate.
Polyethylene: A thermoplastic that is resistant to chemicals and moisture.
Polyurethane (PU): A plastic material made by copolymerizing an isocyanate and a polyhydric alcohol and, for example, can take the form of foam (polyurethane foam) and rubber (polyurethane rubber).
Semi-open foam: Foam comprising a combination of closed and open (encapsulated) cells.
Silicone or Silicone Elastomer: A synthetic rubber. In this specification, a reference to silicone is a reference to liquid silicone rubber (LSR) or a compression moulded silicone rubber (CMSR). One form of commercially available LSR is SILASTIC (included in the range of products sold under this trademark), manufactured by Dow Corning. Another manufacturer of LSR is Wacker. Unless otherwise specified to the contrary, an exemplary form of LSR has a Shore A (or Type A) indentation hardness in the range of about 35 to about 45 as measured using ASTM D2240.
Spacer Fabric: A composite construction comprised of two outer textile substrates joined together and kept apart by an intermediate layer of monofilaments.
Spandex: An elastic fibre or fabric, primarily comprised of polyurethane. Spandex is used in trade products: Lycra.
Textile: A material including at least one natural or artificial fiber. In this specification, a textile may refer to any material that is formed as a network of interwoven and/or interlaced fibers. A type of textile may include a fabric, which is constructed by interlacing the fibers using specific techniques. These include weaving, knitting, crocheting, knotting, tatting, tufting, or braiding. Cloth may be used synonymously with fabric, although may specifically refer to a processed piece of fabric. Other types of textiles may be constructed using bonding (chemical, mechanical, heat, etc.), felting, or other nonwoven processes. Textiles created through one of these processes are fabric-like, and may be considered synonymous with fabric for the purposes of this application.
Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE): Are generally low modulus, flexible materials that can be stretched at room temperature with an ability to return to their approximate original length when stress is released. Trade products that use TPE include: Hytrel, Dynaflex, Medalist
Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU): A thermoplastic elastomer with a high durability and flexibility.
Resilience: Ability of a material to absorb energy when deformed elastically and to release the energy upon unloading.
Resilient: Will release substantially all of the energy when unloaded. Includes e.g. certain silicones, and thermoplastic elastomers.
Hardness: The ability of a material per se to resist deformation (e.g. described by a Young's Modulus, or an indentation hardness scale measured on a standardised sample size).
Stiffness (or rigidity) of a structure or component: The ability of the structure or component to resist deformation in response to an applied load. The load may be a force or a moment, e.g. compression, tension, bending or torsion. The structure or component may offer different resistances in different directions.
Floppy structure or component: A structure or component that will change shape, e.g. bend, when caused to support its own weight, within a relatively short period of time such as 1 second.
Rigid structure or component: A structure or component that will not substantially change shape when subject to the loads typically encountered in use.
The following definitions correspond references identified in
Ala: the external outer wall or “wing” of each nostril (plural: alar)
Alare: The most lateral point on the nasal ala.
Alar curvature (or alar crest) point: The most posterior point in the curved base line of each ala, found in the crease formed by the union of the ala with the cheek.
Auricle: The whole external visible part of the ear.
(nose) Bony framework: The bony framework of the nose comprises the nasal bones, the frontal process of the maxillae and the nasal part of the frontal bone.
Bridge (nasal): The nasal bridge is the midline prominence of the nose, extending from the Sellion to the Pronasale.
(nose) Cartilaginous framework: The cartilaginous framework of the nose comprises the septal, lateral, major and minor cartilages.
Cheilion: A point located at the corner of the mouth.
Columella: the strip of skin that separates the nares and which runs from the pronasale to the upper lip.
Columella angle: The angle between the line drawn through the midpoint of the nostril aperture and a line drawn perpendicular to the Frankfort horizontal while intersecting subnasale.
Endocanthion: The point at which the upper and lower eyelids meet, proximal to the Sellion.
Epicranius: The Epicranius, or frontal belly, refers to structures that cover the cranium.
External occipital protuberance: A protuberance on the outer surface of the occipital bone.
Frankfort horizontal plane: A line extending from the most inferior point of the orbital margin to the left tragion. The tragion is the deepest point in the notch superior to the tragus of the auricle.
Glabella: Located on the soft tissue, the most prominent point in the midsagittal plane of the forehead.
Interpupillary Distance: The distance between the centres of the pupils of the eyes.
Lateral nasal cartilage: A generally triangular plate of cartilage. Its superior margin is attached to the nasal bone and frontal process of the maxilla, and its inferior margin is connected to the greater alar cartilage.
Lip, inferior (labrale inferius): A point on the face between the mouth and supramenton, lying in the median sagittal plane.
Lip, superior (labrale superius): A point on the face between the mouth and nose, lying in the median sagittal plane.
Greater alar cartilage: A plate of cartilage lying below the lateral nasal cartilage. It is curved around the anterior part of the naris. Its posterior end is connected to the frontal process of the maxilla by a tough fibrous membrane containing three or four minor cartilages of the ala.
Nares (Nostrils): Approximately ellipsoidal apertures forming the entrance to the nasal cavity. The singular form of nares is naris (nostril). The nares are separated by the nasal septum.
Naso-labial sulcus or Naso-labial fold: The skin fold or groove that runs from each side of the nose to the corners of the mouth, separating the cheeks from the upper lip.
Naso-labial angle: The angle between the columella and the upper lip, while intersecting subnasale.
Otobasion inferior: The lowest point of attachment of the auricle to the skin of the face.
Otobasion superior: The highest point of attachment of the auricle to the skin of the face.
Pronasale: the most protruded point or tip of the nose, which can be identified in lateral view of the rest of the portion of the head.
Philtrum: the midline groove that runs from lower border of the nasal septum to the top of the lip in the upper lip region.
Pogonion: Located on the soft tissue, the most anterior midpoint of the chin.
Ridge (nasal): The nasal ridge is the midline prominence of the nose, extending from the Sellion to the Pronasale.
Sagittal plane: A vertical plane that passes from anterior (front) to posterior (rear). The midsagittal plane is a sagittal plane that divides the body into right and left halves.
Sellion: Located on the soft tissue, the most concave point overlying the area of the frontonasal suture.
Septal cartilage (nasal): The nasal septal cartilage forms part of the septum and divides the front part of the nasal cavity.
Subalare: The point at the lower margin of the alar base, where the alar base joins with the skin of the superior (upper) lip.
Subnasal point: Located on the soft tissue, the point at which the columella merges with the upper lip in the midsagittal plane.
Supramenton: The point of greatest concavity in the midline of the lower lip between labrale inferius and soft tissue pogonion.
Superciliary arch: A protuberance of the frontal bone above the eye.
Temporalis muscle: A muscle in the temporal fossa that serves to raise the lower jaw.
Temporomandibular joint: A freely moveable joint between the temporal bone and mandible that allows for the opening, closing, protrusion, retraction, and lateral movement of the mandible.
Vermillion, upper: A red part of the lips covered with stratified squamous epithelium which is in continuity with the oral mucosa of the gingivolabial groove.
Frontal bone: The frontal bone includes a large vertical portion, the squama frontalis, corresponding to the region known as the forehead.
Lateral cartilage: Portion of cartilage lateral of the Septal cartilage and inferior to the Nasal bones.
Mandible: The mandible forms the lower jaw. The mental protuberance is the bony protuberance of the jaw that forms the chin.
Masseter minor: A lower portion of the Masseter muscle of which raises the lower jaw.
Maxilla: The maxilla forms the upper jaw and is located above the mandible and below the orbits. The frontal process of the maxilla projects upwards by the side of the nose, and forms part of its lateral boundary.
Nasal bones: The nasal bones are two small oblong bones, varying in size and form in different individuals; they are placed side by side at the middle and upper part of the face, and form, by their junction, the “bridge” of the nose.
Nasion: The intersection of the frontal bone and the two nasal bones, a depressed area directly between the eyes and superior to the bridge of the nose.
Occipital bone: The occipital bone is situated at the back and lower part of the cranium. It includes an oval aperture, the foramen magnum, through which the cranial cavity communicates with the vertebral canal. The curved plate behind the foramen magnum is the squama occipitalis.
Orbit: The bony cavity in the skull to contain the eyeball.
Parietal bones: The parietal bones are the bones that, when joined together, form the roof and sides of the cranium.
Septal cartilage: Cartilage of the nasal septum.
Sphenoid bone: A wedge shaped bone of the base of the cranium.
Supraorbital foramen: An opening in the inferior bone of the orbit for the passage of the Supraorbital nerve, artery and vein.
Temporal bones: The temporal bones are situated on the bases and sides of the skull, and support that part of the face known as the temple.
Trapezius minor: A triangular-shaped superficial muscle of the upper back.
Zygomatic bones: The face includes two zygomatic bones, located in the upper and lateral parts of the face and forming the prominence of the cheek.
Frame: Frame will be taken to mean a display housing unit that bears the load of tension between two or more points of connection with a headgear and/or a hoop. The frame may seal against the user's face in order to limit and/or prevent the ingress and/or egress of light.
Hoop: Hoop will be taken to mean a form of positioning and stabilizing structure designed for use on a head. For example the hoop may comprise a collection of one or more struts, ties and stiffeners configured to locate and retain a user interface in position on a users' face for holding a display unit in an operational position in front of a user's face. Some ties are formed of a soft, flexible, elastic material such as a laminated composite of foam and fabric/textile. In some forms, the term headgear may be synonymous with the term hoop.
Membrane: Membrane will be taken to mean a typically thin element that has, preferably, substantially no resistance to bending, but has resistance to being stretched.
Seal: May be a noun form (“a seal”) which refers to a structure, or a verb form (“to seal”) which refers to the effect. Two elements may be constructed and/or arranged to ‘seal’ or to effect ‘sealing’ therebetween without requiring a separate ‘seal’ element per se.
Shell: A shell will be taken to mean a curved, relatively thin structure having bending, tensile and compressive stiffness. For example, a curved structural wall of a mask may be a shell. In some forms, a shell may be faceted. In some forms a shell may be airtight. In some forms a shell may not be airtight.
Stiffener: A stiffener will be taken to mean a structural component designed to increase the bending resistance of another component in at least one direction.
Strut. A strut will be taken to be a structural component designed to increase the compression resistance of another component in at least one direction.
Swivel (noun): A subassembly of components configured to rotate about a common axis, preferably independently, preferably under low torque. In one form, the swivel may be constructed to rotate through an angle of at least 360 degrees. In another form, the swivel may be constructed to rotate through an angle less than 360 degrees.
Tie (noun): A structure designed to resist tension.
Products in accordance with the present technology may comprise one or more three-dimensional mechanical structures, for example a mask cushion or an impeller. The three-dimensional structures may be bounded by two-dimensional surfaces. These surfaces may be distinguished using a label to describe an associated surface orientation, location, function, or some other characteristic. For example a structure may comprise one or more of an anterior surface, a posterior surface, an interior surface and an exterior surface. In another example, a seal-forming structure may comprise a face-contacting (e.g. outer) surface, and a separate non-face-contacting (e.g. underside or inner) surface. In another example, a structure may comprise a first surface and a second surface.
To facilitate describing the shape of the three-dimensional structures and the surfaces, we first consider a cross-section through a surface of the structure at a point, p. See
The curvature of a plane curve at p may be described as having a sign (e.g. positive, negative) and a magnitude (e.g. 1/radius of a circle that just touches the curve at p).
Positive curvature: If the curve at p turns towards the outward normal, the curvature at that point will be taken to be positive (if the imaginary small person leaves the point p they must walk uphill). See
Zero curvature: If the curve at p is a straight line, the curvature will be taken to be zero (if the imaginary small person leaves the point p, they can walk on a level, neither up nor down). See
Negative curvature: If the curve at p turns away from the outward normal, the curvature in that direction at that point will be taken to be negative (if the imaginary small person leaves the point p they must walk downhill). See
A description of the shape at a given point on a two-dimensional surface in accordance with the present technology may include multiple normal cross-sections. The multiple cross-sections may cut the surface in a plane that includes the outward normal (a “normal plane”), and each cross-section may be taken in a different direction. Each cross-section results in a plane curve with a corresponding curvature. The different curvatures at that point may have the same sign, or a different sign. Each of the curvatures at that point has a magnitude, e.g. relatively small. The plane curves in
Principal curvatures and directions: The directions of the normal planes where the curvature of the curve takes its maximum and minimum values are called the principal directions. In the examples of
Region of a surface: A connected set of points on a surface. The set of points in a region may have similar characteristics, e.g. curvatures or signs.
Saddle region: A region where at each point, the principal curvatures have opposite signs, that is, one is positive, and the other is negative (depending on the direction to which the imaginary person turns, they may walk uphill or downhill).
Dome region: A region where at each point the principal curvatures have the same sign, e.g. both positive (a “concave dome”) or both negative (a “convex dome”).
Cylindrical region: A region where one principal curvature is zero (or, for example, zero within manufacturing tolerances) and the other principal curvature is non-zero.
Planar region: A region of a surface where both of the principal curvatures are zero (or, for example, zero within manufacturing tolerances).
Edge of a surface: A boundary or limit of a surface or region.
Path: In certain forms of the present technology, ‘path’ will be taken to mean a path in the mathematical—topological sense, e.g. a continuous space curve from f(0) to f(1) on a surface. In certain forms of the present technology, a ‘path’ may be described as a route or course, including e.g. a set of points on a surface. (The path for the imaginary person is where they walk on the surface, and is analogous to a garden path).
Path length: In certain forms of the present technology, ‘path length’ will be taken to mean the distance along the surface from f(0) to f(1), that is, the distance along the path on the surface. There may be more than one path between two points on a surface and such paths may have different path lengths. (The path length for the imaginary person would be the distance they have to walk on the surface along the path).
Straight-line distance: The straight-line distance is the distance between two points on a surface, but without regard to the surface. On planar regions, there would be a path on the surface having the same path length as the straight-line distance between two points on the surface. On non-planar surfaces, there may be no paths having the same path length as the straight-line distance between two points. (For the imaginary person, the straight-line distance would correspond to the distance ‘as the crow flies’.)
Space curves: Unlike a plane curve, a space curve does not necessarily lie in any particular plane. A space curve may be closed, that is, having no endpoints. A space curve may be considered to be a one-dimensional piece of three-dimensional space. An imaginary person walking on a strand of the DNA helix walks along a space curve. A typical human left ear comprises a helix, which is a left-hand helix, see
Tangent unit vector (or unit tangent vector): For each point on a curve, a vector at the point specifies a direction from that point, as well as a magnitude. A tangent unit vector is a unit vector pointing in the same direction as the curve at that point. If an imaginary person were flying along the curve and fell off her vehicle at a particular point, the direction of the tangent vector is the direction she would be travelling.
Unit normal vector: As the imaginary person moves along the curve, this tangent vector itself changes. The unit vector pointing in the same direction that the tangent vector is changing is called the unit principal normal vector. It is perpendicular to the tangent vector.
Binormal unit vector: The binormal unit vector is perpendicular to both the tangent vector and the principal normal vector. Its direction may be determined by a right-hand rule (see e.g.
Osculating plane: The plane containing the unit tangent vector and the unit principal normal vector. See
Torsion of a space curve: The torsion at a point of a space curve is the magnitude of the rate of change of the binormal unit vector at that point. It measures how much the curve deviates from the osculating plane. A space curve which lies in a plane has zero torsion. A space curve which deviates a relatively small amount from the osculating plane will have a relatively small magnitude of torsion (e.g. a gently sloping helical path). A space curve which deviates a relatively large amount from the osculating plane will have a relatively large magnitude of torsion (e.g. a steeply sloping helical path). With reference to
With reference to the right-hand rule of
Equivalently, and with reference to a left-hand rule (see
A surface may have a one-dimensional hole, e.g. a hole bounded by a plane curve or by a space curve. Thin structures (e.g. a membrane) with a hole, may be described as having a one-dimensional hole. See for example the one dimensional hole in the surface of structure shown in
A structure may have a two-dimensional hole, e.g. a hole bounded by a surface. For example, an inflatable tyre has a two dimensional hole bounded by the interior surface of the tyre. In another example, a bladder with a cavity for air or gel could have a two-dimensional hole. In a yet another example, a conduit may comprise a one-dimension hole (e.g. at its entrance or at its exit), and a two-dimension hole bounded by the inside surface of the conduit. See also the two dimensional hole through the structure shown in
A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in Patent Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.
Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise and where a range of values is provided, it is understood that each intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit, between the upper and lower limit of that range, and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range is encompassed within the technology. The upper and lower limits of these intervening ranges, which may be independently included in the intervening ranges, are also encompassed within the technology, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included in the technology.
Furthermore, where a value or values are stated herein as being implemented as part of the technology, it is understood that such values may be approximated, unless otherwise stated, and such values may be utilized to any suitable significant digit to the extent that a practical technical implementation may permit or require it.
Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this technology belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can also be used in the practice or testing of the present technology, a limited number of the exemplary methods and materials are described herein.
When a particular material is identified as being used to construct a component, obvious alternative materials with similar properties may be used as a substitute. Furthermore, unless specified to the contrary, any and all components herein described are understood to be capable of being manufactured and, as such, may be manufactured together or separately.
It must be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include their plural equivalents, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
All publications mentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety to disclose and describe the methods and/or materials which are the subject of those publications. The publications discussed herein are provided solely for their disclosure prior to the filing date of the present application. Nothing herein is to be construed as an admission that the present technology is not entitled to antedate such publication by virtue of prior invention. Further, the dates of publication provided may be different from the actual publication dates, which may need to be independently confirmed.
The terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced.
The subject headings used in the detailed description are included only for the ease of reference of the reader and should not be used to limit the subject matter found throughout the disclosure or the claims. The subject headings should not be used in construing the scope of the claims or the claim limitations.
Although the technology herein has been described with reference to particular examples, it is to be understood that these examples are merely illustrative of the principles and applications of the technology. In some instances, the terminology and symbols may imply specific details that are not required to practice the technology. For example, although the terms “first” and “second” may be used, unless otherwise specified, they are not intended to indicate any order but may be utilised to distinguish between distinct elements. Furthermore, although process steps in the methodologies may be described or illustrated in an order, such an ordering is not required. Those skilled in the art will recognize that such ordering may be modified and/or aspects thereof may be conducted concurrently or even synchronously.
It is therefore to be understood that numerous modifications may be made to the illustrative examples and that other arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the technology.
| Number | Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020900953 | Mar 2020 | AU | national |
| 2020901432 | May 2020 | AU | national |
| 2020901437 | May 2020 | AU | national |
| 2020902514 | Jul 2020 | AU | national |
| 2020903055 | Aug 2020 | AU | national |
| 2020903112 | Aug 2020 | AU | national |
| 2020903395 | Sep 2020 | AU | national |
| 2020903502 | Sep 2020 | AU | national |
| 2020903638 | Oct 2020 | AU | national |
| 2020903876 | Oct 2020 | AU | national |
| 2020904664 | Dec 2020 | AU | national |
| 2020904849 | Dec 2020 | AU | national |
| 2021900871 | Mar 2021 | AU | national |
This application claims the benefit of Australian Application No. 2020900953, filed 27 Mar. 2020, U.S. application Ser. No. 16/865,480, filed 4 May 2020, U.S. application Ser. No. 16/865,526, filed 4 May 2020, Australian Application No. 2020901432, filed 5 May 2020, Australian Application No. 2020901437, filed 6 May 2020, Australian Application No. 2020902514, filed 20 Jul. 2020, Australian Application No. 2020903055, filed 26 Aug. 2020, Australian Application No. 2020903112, filed 31 Aug. 2020, Australian Application No. 2020903395, filed 22 Sep. 2020, Australian Application No. 2020903502, filed 29 Sep. 2020, Australian Application No. 2020903638, filed 7 Oct. 2020, PCT Application No. PCT/AU2020/051081, filed 8 Oct. 2020, Australian Application No. 2020903876, filed 26 Oct. 2020, PCT Application No. PCT/AU2020/051158, filed 28 Oct. 2020, Australian Application No. 2020904664, filed 15 Dec. 2020, Australian Application No. 2020904849, filed 24 Dec. 2020, and Australian Application No. 2021900871, filed 24 Mar. 2021, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
| Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/AU2021/050277 | 3/29/2021 | WO |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 16865480 | May 2020 | US |
| Child | 17915024 | US | |
| Parent | 16865526 | May 2020 | US |
| Child | 16865480 | US | |
| Parent | PCT/AU2020/051158 | Oct 2020 | US |
| Child | 16865526 | US | |
| Parent | PCT/AU2020/051081 | Oct 2020 | US |
| Child | PCT/AU2020/051158 | US |
