CA3017927A1 - Virtual reality/augmented reality (vr/ar) headset facial interface cover, face mask and sweatband - Google Patents
Virtual reality/augmented reality (vr/ar) headset facial interface cover, face mask and sweatband Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA3017927A1 CA3017927A1 CA3017927A CA3017927A CA3017927A1 CA 3017927 A1 CA3017927 A1 CA 3017927A1 CA 3017927 A CA3017927 A CA 3017927A CA 3017927 A CA3017927 A CA 3017927A CA 3017927 A1 CA3017927 A1 CA 3017927A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- headset
- sweatband
- facial interface
- shape
- face
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B27/00—Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups G02B1/00 - G02B26/00, G02B30/00
- G02B27/01—Head-up displays
- G02B27/017—Head mounted
- G02B27/0176—Head mounted characterised by mechanical features
Landscapes
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Optics & Photonics (AREA)
- Respiratory Apparatuses And Protective Means (AREA)
Abstract
Virtual reality and augmented reality (VR/AR) headset are now widely available in the consumer market. Worn like goggles, these headsets have facial interfaces that come into direct contact with the user's face causing comfort and hygiene issues.
This invention combines the functions of a facial interface cover, a facemask and a sweatband. Fastening the invention to the headset is optional, but possible with or without the use of fastener.
This invention combines the functions of a facial interface cover, a facemask and a sweatband. Fastening the invention to the headset is optional, but possible with or without the use of fastener.
Description
Summary of the invention 1. One or more layers of generally flat fabric made of cotton, synthetic or other material shaped to form a single viewing hole that allows both eyes of a user to register with the viewing window of a VR/AR headset (or head mounted display).
2. The invention is to be removably fitted between the headset and the face of the user.
3. Fastening to the headset is optional, but can be done with or without the use of fastener.
4. The invention does not cover the nose portion of the user.
5. The invention is reusable (e.g., made of washable fabric) or disposable (e.g., made of paper).
6. Both sides of the invention can be used equally.
Background Consumer VR/AR headsets typically have a facial interface made of plastic with a foam rubber or fabric edge. When is use, this edge of the facial interface comes into direct contact with the user's face. There are comfort and hygiene issues relating to facial interfaces that remain unaddressed by VR/AR headset manufacturers:
1. Sweat, bacteria, skin oil and make-up will transfer onto the facial interface (and potentially from one user to another) if the facial interface is not covered when in use (e.g., with paper, fabric or other material).
2. The pressure and friction caused by the facial interface on the soft skin around the eyes, on the forehead and/or on cheeks can cause red pressure marks on the skin and make wearing the VR/AR headset uncomfortable after extended periods of use.
3. Further reducing comfort, sweat will accumulate on the user's forehead and face (and for users sweating profusely, inside the goggles and onto the lenses) when engaging in vigorous VR/AR activities or when using VR/AR devices in hot environments or for extended periods of time.
The invention provides solutions to these three problems as it combines:
1. A cover that acts as a barrier and protects the facial interface from direct contact with the user's face, thereby preventing the transfer of sweat, skin oil, bacteria and make-up from the user's face to the facial interface;
2. A facemask that adds a soft layer between the user's face and the facial interface to help reduce red marks on the face and make wearing a VR/AR headset more comfortable; and 3. A sweatband that keeps sweat from accumulating on the user's forehead, face, around the eyes and on the cheeks.
Description The invention serves three purposes specific to addressing comfort and hygiene when using VR/AR headsets: 1) as a facial interface cover, 2) as a facemask and 3) as a sweatband.
The front (Figure 1) and back (Figure 2) of the invention are made of machine washable and machine dry safe cotton or synthetic fabric. There is a cotton batting inner layer at the top (1) and at the sides (2) indicated by long dashed lines and wide cross-hatching in Figure 1 and Figure 2.
The front and back, along with the batting inner layer, are sewn together with sewing thread. The short dashed lines in Figure 1 and Figure 2 indicates the sweatband sewing lines (3).
The nose portion (4) at the bottom centre of the invention is open so as not to limit the field of view, inhibit breathing or cause discomfort to the user. The viewing hole (5) at the centre allows both eyes of the user to register with the viewing window of the VR/AR
headset.
The invention can also be made of other natural and/or synthetic fabric, paper, cardboard, and/or products suitable for extended contact with human skin (e.g., materials used in the consumer and medical industries for facemasks, sweatbands, feminine hygiene products, etc.).
In certain instances, the invention may be disposable or recyclable as opposed to machine washable depending on the material used (e.g., paper).
During regular use, the invention is placed on the headset (as shown in Figure 3, Figure 4 and Figure 5) and fitted between the user's face and the facial interface (Figure 6).
Attaching the invention to the headset is optional. The invention can be used (and will stay in place) by placing it onto the headset and relying on the friction between it, the headset and the user's face to stay in place.
The portions of fabric to the left and right at the bottom pointing toward the middle (6) (Figure 1) (referred to as the 'flaps' in the rest of this document), are used to secure the invention to the headset without the use of additional fasteners. These 'flaps' (6) can be tucked under or wrapped around the facial interface (Figure 5).
The left and right middle portion of the back (7) (Figure 2) are curved to accommodate various VR/AR headset straps and headbands. These curved cutouts (7) (Figure 4) allow space for VR/AR headset straps or headbands to allow the invention to fit well onto the headset.
The batting inner layer (2) at the sides helps the "cover" element of the invention to retain its shape (Figure 4).
Features The nose portion (4) (Figure 1) of the invention is open in contrast with traditional facemasks or facial gasket that cover the nose (which limits the user's field of view and make them unsuitable for use with VR/AR headsets).
The inner layer of absorbent batting (1) (Figure 1) at the top acts as a sweatband. The sweatband portion (8) (Figure 1) only covers the forehead and does not wrap around the head like a traditional sweatband (Figure 6). This avoids alignment issues with VR/AR
headsets caused by regular sweatbands (and small close-fitting hats) that sit on the user's head in the same position as the headset straps or headband preventing the headset from sitting flush against the user's head.
The dimensions of the invention allow it to be used as a cover for all VR/AR
headsets (i.e., one-size-fits all) since these dimensions follow the same proportions as the headsets which are based on the average human face.
The batting inner layer (2) (Figure 1) on the left and right sides to help maintain the shape of the cover.
Depending on the design of the VR/AR headset, the invention may help block out additional external light thereby adding more immersion to the user experience (Figure 6).
The invention is reversible in that it can be used in the same manner both in its original configuration and when it is turned inside out (i.e. both sides of the invention can be used equally).
The invention does not affect the focal distance or the field of view (FOV) of the VR/AR
headset in any way (Figure 1).
Previous claims There are related patent applications for facial gaskets (United States Patent Application Publication No. US 2004/0061663 Al), goggles (United States Patent Application Publication No. 2006/0179554 Al, United States Patent No. 9,138,026 B2) and head-mounted displays (International Patent Application Publication No.
W02014/082023 Al). In these applications, however, the facial interface crosses the nose portion, whereas with the invention has a unique open nose portion.
As for relevant patents relating to facemasks, in United States Patent No.
3,789,428, unlike the invention, the gasket is heart shaped as opposed to "C" shaped like the invention, and is permanently attached to the base flange.
As for patents for head mounting apparatus, in United States Patent No.
4,457,461, the flexible member must be affixed to the rigid member by complex pivotal connecting means.
While it can be argued that the shape of the flexible member appears to be similar to that of the invention, the flexible member only allows vertical position adjustments relative to the rigid member by rotating the knobs, and does not provide reversibility.
Background Consumer VR/AR headsets typically have a facial interface made of plastic with a foam rubber or fabric edge. When is use, this edge of the facial interface comes into direct contact with the user's face. There are comfort and hygiene issues relating to facial interfaces that remain unaddressed by VR/AR headset manufacturers:
1. Sweat, bacteria, skin oil and make-up will transfer onto the facial interface (and potentially from one user to another) if the facial interface is not covered when in use (e.g., with paper, fabric or other material).
2. The pressure and friction caused by the facial interface on the soft skin around the eyes, on the forehead and/or on cheeks can cause red pressure marks on the skin and make wearing the VR/AR headset uncomfortable after extended periods of use.
3. Further reducing comfort, sweat will accumulate on the user's forehead and face (and for users sweating profusely, inside the goggles and onto the lenses) when engaging in vigorous VR/AR activities or when using VR/AR devices in hot environments or for extended periods of time.
The invention provides solutions to these three problems as it combines:
1. A cover that acts as a barrier and protects the facial interface from direct contact with the user's face, thereby preventing the transfer of sweat, skin oil, bacteria and make-up from the user's face to the facial interface;
2. A facemask that adds a soft layer between the user's face and the facial interface to help reduce red marks on the face and make wearing a VR/AR headset more comfortable; and 3. A sweatband that keeps sweat from accumulating on the user's forehead, face, around the eyes and on the cheeks.
Description The invention serves three purposes specific to addressing comfort and hygiene when using VR/AR headsets: 1) as a facial interface cover, 2) as a facemask and 3) as a sweatband.
The front (Figure 1) and back (Figure 2) of the invention are made of machine washable and machine dry safe cotton or synthetic fabric. There is a cotton batting inner layer at the top (1) and at the sides (2) indicated by long dashed lines and wide cross-hatching in Figure 1 and Figure 2.
The front and back, along with the batting inner layer, are sewn together with sewing thread. The short dashed lines in Figure 1 and Figure 2 indicates the sweatband sewing lines (3).
The nose portion (4) at the bottom centre of the invention is open so as not to limit the field of view, inhibit breathing or cause discomfort to the user. The viewing hole (5) at the centre allows both eyes of the user to register with the viewing window of the VR/AR
headset.
The invention can also be made of other natural and/or synthetic fabric, paper, cardboard, and/or products suitable for extended contact with human skin (e.g., materials used in the consumer and medical industries for facemasks, sweatbands, feminine hygiene products, etc.).
In certain instances, the invention may be disposable or recyclable as opposed to machine washable depending on the material used (e.g., paper).
During regular use, the invention is placed on the headset (as shown in Figure 3, Figure 4 and Figure 5) and fitted between the user's face and the facial interface (Figure 6).
Attaching the invention to the headset is optional. The invention can be used (and will stay in place) by placing it onto the headset and relying on the friction between it, the headset and the user's face to stay in place.
The portions of fabric to the left and right at the bottom pointing toward the middle (6) (Figure 1) (referred to as the 'flaps' in the rest of this document), are used to secure the invention to the headset without the use of additional fasteners. These 'flaps' (6) can be tucked under or wrapped around the facial interface (Figure 5).
The left and right middle portion of the back (7) (Figure 2) are curved to accommodate various VR/AR headset straps and headbands. These curved cutouts (7) (Figure 4) allow space for VR/AR headset straps or headbands to allow the invention to fit well onto the headset.
The batting inner layer (2) at the sides helps the "cover" element of the invention to retain its shape (Figure 4).
Features The nose portion (4) (Figure 1) of the invention is open in contrast with traditional facemasks or facial gasket that cover the nose (which limits the user's field of view and make them unsuitable for use with VR/AR headsets).
The inner layer of absorbent batting (1) (Figure 1) at the top acts as a sweatband. The sweatband portion (8) (Figure 1) only covers the forehead and does not wrap around the head like a traditional sweatband (Figure 6). This avoids alignment issues with VR/AR
headsets caused by regular sweatbands (and small close-fitting hats) that sit on the user's head in the same position as the headset straps or headband preventing the headset from sitting flush against the user's head.
The dimensions of the invention allow it to be used as a cover for all VR/AR
headsets (i.e., one-size-fits all) since these dimensions follow the same proportions as the headsets which are based on the average human face.
The batting inner layer (2) (Figure 1) on the left and right sides to help maintain the shape of the cover.
Depending on the design of the VR/AR headset, the invention may help block out additional external light thereby adding more immersion to the user experience (Figure 6).
The invention is reversible in that it can be used in the same manner both in its original configuration and when it is turned inside out (i.e. both sides of the invention can be used equally).
The invention does not affect the focal distance or the field of view (FOV) of the VR/AR
headset in any way (Figure 1).
Previous claims There are related patent applications for facial gaskets (United States Patent Application Publication No. US 2004/0061663 Al), goggles (United States Patent Application Publication No. 2006/0179554 Al, United States Patent No. 9,138,026 B2) and head-mounted displays (International Patent Application Publication No.
W02014/082023 Al). In these applications, however, the facial interface crosses the nose portion, whereas with the invention has a unique open nose portion.
As for relevant patents relating to facemasks, in United States Patent No.
3,789,428, unlike the invention, the gasket is heart shaped as opposed to "C" shaped like the invention, and is permanently attached to the base flange.
As for patents for head mounting apparatus, in United States Patent No.
4,457,461, the flexible member must be affixed to the rigid member by complex pivotal connecting means.
While it can be argued that the shape of the flexible member appears to be similar to that of the invention, the flexible member only allows vertical position adjustments relative to the rigid member by rotating the knobs, and does not provide reversibility.
Claims (16)
1. A VR/AR headset accessory that combines the features of a facial interface cover, a facemask and a sweatband.
2. A way to keep the invention in place by way of friction when used with a VR/AR
headset.
headset.
3. A way to attach the invention to a VR/AR headset to keep it in place by tucking or wrapping the lower inside portion of the invention (the 'flaps') onto the facial interface of the AR/VR headset.
4. A facemask feature, as part of the overall invention, which protects the user's face from coming into direct contact with the facial interface when using a VR/AR
headset.
headset.
5. A facial interface cover feature, as part of the overall invention, that prevents the transfer of sweat, skin oils, bacteria and make-up from the user's face to the facial interface.
6. A sweatband feature, as part of the overall invention, which keeps sweat from accumulating on the face.
7. A sweatband feature, as part of the overall invention, where the sweatband portion at the top of the invention only makes contact with the forehead of the user and does not wrap around the head like a traditional sweatband.
8. A facemask feature, as part of the overall invention, which reduces red marks caused by the pressure of VR/AR headsets on the face and increases comfort for the users.
9. The shape of the bottom inside portion of the invention (the 'flaps') that are used to attach it to a VR/AR headset, including the cut out shape around the nose portion.
10. The shape, template and pattern of the invention.
11. The shape of the cutouts on the sides at the back of the invention that accommodates various VR/AR headsets straps and headbands.
12.The shape and location of the batting inner layer.
13.The shape of the sides of the invention that blocks out additional unwanted light from entering the sides when using VR/AR headsets.
14.The reversibility of the invention (both sides of the invention can be used equally).
15.The materials from which the invention can be made, including: fabric, natural and man-made materials, paper and cardboard, and/or any other product suitable for extended contact with human skin.
16.The invention is reusable (e.g., made of washable fabric) or disposable (e.g., made of paper) and/or recyclable.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA3017927A CA3017927A1 (en) | 2018-09-19 | 2018-09-19 | Virtual reality/augmented reality (vr/ar) headset facial interface cover, face mask and sweatband |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA3017927A CA3017927A1 (en) | 2018-09-19 | 2018-09-19 | Virtual reality/augmented reality (vr/ar) headset facial interface cover, face mask and sweatband |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA3017927A1 true CA3017927A1 (en) | 2020-03-19 |
Family
ID=69891476
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA3017927A Abandoned CA3017927A1 (en) | 2018-09-19 | 2018-09-19 | Virtual reality/augmented reality (vr/ar) headset facial interface cover, face mask and sweatband |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA3017927A1 (en) |
-
2018
- 2018-09-19 CA CA3017927A patent/CA3017927A1/en not_active Abandoned
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued |
Effective date: 20220322 |
|
| FZDE | Discontinued |
Effective date: 20220322 |