KR102619540B1 - Feedback device and method for providing thermal using the same - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a head mounted display. The head mounted display according to one aspect of the present invention includes a front portion and a rear portion formed opposite the front portion, is mounted on the user's face, and is configured to provide an image to the user. A housing on which a display that outputs images is installed on the rear side; a cushioning member disposed in an edge area of the rear portion, providing a cushioning effect and having at least one depression formed; and a thermoelectric operation unit inserted into the recess and including a contact surface in contact with the user's facial skin and a thermoelectric device that performs a thermoelectric operation to provide thermal feedback to the user through the contact surface.

Description

Feedback device and method of providing thermal feedback using the same {FEEDBACK DEVICE AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING THERMAL USING THE SAME}

The present invention relates to a feedback device that outputs thermal feedback and a method of providing thermal feedback using the same.

Recently, as technology for virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) has developed, the demand for providing feedback through various senses to increase user immersion in content is increasing. In particular, virtual reality technology was mentioned as one of the promising future technologies at the 2016 Consumer Electronics Show (CES). In line with this trend, research is being actively conducted to move away from the current user experience (UX: User eXperience) that is mainly limited to sight and hearing, and to provide user experience for all human senses, including smell and touch.

A thermoelectric element (TE) is a device that generates an exothermic or endothermic reaction by receiving electrical energy through the Peltier effect. It has been expected to be used to provide thermal feedback to users, but it is mainly used using flat boards. The application of existing thermoelectric elements has been limited because they are difficult to adhere to the user's body parts.

However, as the development of flexible thermoelectric elements (FTE) has recently reached a successful stage, it is expected that it will be able to overcome the problems of conventional thermoelectric elements and effectively deliver thermal feedback to users.

One object of the present invention is to provide a feedback device that provides thermal feedback to a user and a method of providing thermal feedback using the same.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a feedback device that effectively discharges waste heat generated in the feedback device.

The problem to be solved by the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned problems, and problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from this specification and the attached drawings. .

According to one aspect of the present invention, a housing including a front part and a rear part formed opposite the front part, is mounted on the user's face, and a display that outputs an image to the rear part to provide an image to the user is installed; a cushioning member disposed in an edge area of the rear portion, providing a cushioning effect and having at least one depression formed; and a thermoelectric operation unit inserted into the depression and including a contact surface in contact with the user's facial skin and a thermoelectric device that performs a thermoelectric operation to provide thermal feedback to the user through the contact surface. A display may be provided.

According to another aspect of the present invention, it is provided in a ring shape centered on a first axis, a front surface perpendicular to the first axis, a rear surface perpendicular to the first axis and formed on an opposite side of the front surface, and connecting the front surface and the rear surface. a cushioning member including a side surface and having a depression formed in at least a portion of the rear surface and providing a cushioning effect; and a thermoelectric operation unit disposed to correspond to the depression and including a thermoelectric device that performs a thermoelectric operation, wherein the buffer member is configured to act as an external force between the front surface and the thermoelectric operation unit. As the shape is deformed, a cover for a feedback device may be provided that provides restoring force between the front surface and the thermoelectric operation unit, and the thermoelectric operation unit provides thermal feedback to a surface that does not face the depression of the thermoelectric operation unit. there is.

The means for solving the problem of the present invention are not limited to the above-mentioned solution means, and the solution methods not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from this specification and the attached drawings. You will be able to.

According to the present invention, thermal feedback can be provided to the user.

Additionally, according to the present invention, waste heat generated from the feedback device can be effectively discharged.

The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, and effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from this specification and the attached drawings.

1 is a diagram of a head mounted display according to an embodiment.
Figure 2 is a diagram of an area where a thermoelectric device is placed on the face according to one embodiment.
Figure 3 is a diagram of an area where a thermoelectric device according to an embodiment is disposed on a buffer member.
4 and 5 are block diagrams of implementation examples of a control circuit of a thermoelectric device according to an embodiment.
Figure 6 is a diagram of a shock absorbing member according to one embodiment.
7 and 8 are diagrams of a first implementation of a thermoelectric device according to an embodiment.
Figure 9 is a diagram of a thermoelectric module according to one embodiment.
FIG. 10 is a diagram of a second implementation of a thermoelectric device according to an embodiment.
11 and 12 are diagrams of a first implementation of a cover for a feedback device according to an embodiment.
13 is a diagram of a second implementation of a cover for a feedback device according to an embodiment.
14 is a diagram of a third implementation of a cover for a feedback device according to an embodiment.
Figure 15 is a diagram of a third implementation of a thermoelectric device according to an embodiment.

The embodiments described in this specification are intended to clearly explain the spirit of the present invention to those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described in this specification, and the present invention The scope of should be construed to include modifications or variations that do not depart from the spirit of the present invention.

The terms used in this specification are general terms that are currently widely used as much as possible in consideration of their function in the present invention, but this may vary depending on the intention, custom, or the emergence of new technology of a person skilled in the art in the technical field to which the present invention pertains. You can. However, if a specific term is defined and used with an arbitrary meaning, the meaning of the term will be described separately. Therefore, the terms used in this specification should be interpreted based on the actual meaning of the term and the overall content of this specification, not just the name of the term.

The drawings attached to this specification are intended to easily explain the present invention, and the shapes shown in the drawings may be exaggerated as necessary to aid understanding of the present invention, so the present invention is not limited by the drawings.

In this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of a known configuration or function related to the present invention may obscure the gist of the present invention, the detailed description thereof will be omitted as necessary.

According to one aspect of the present invention, a housing including a front part and a rear part formed opposite the front part, is mounted on the user's face, and a display that outputs an image to the rear part to provide an image to the user is installed; a cushioning member disposed in an edge area of the rear portion, providing a cushioning effect and having at least one depression formed; and a thermoelectric operation unit inserted into the depression and including a contact surface in contact with the user's facial skin and a thermoelectric device that performs a thermoelectric operation to provide thermal feedback to the user through the contact surface. A display may be provided.

Here, the thermoelectric device includes a thermoelectric module that performs a thermoelectric operation, a heat dissipation member that radiates heat generated in the thermoelectric module to the outside, and a heat transfer member that provides a heat transfer path between the thermoelectric module and the heat dissipation member. , the thermoelectric module is disposed to face the depression, the heat transfer member is disposed between the depression and the thermoelectric module, and the heat dissipation member is disposed on the front surface of the housing from the outside of the heat transfer member. It may extend in the negative direction.

Here, the thermoelectric operation unit may include a plurality of thermoelectric devices.

Here, the plurality of thermoelectric devices may be disposed on the cushioning member to contact the user's forehead area when the user wears the head mounted display.

Here, a larger number of depressions than the number of thermoelectric devices are formed in the buffer member, and the thermoelectric devices are not disposed in some of the depressions, thereby allowing air to flow in and out between the inside and outside of the head mounted display. It is possible to prevent moisture from accumulating inside the head mounted display.

Here, the controller may further include a controller that applies a thermal feedback signal to the thermoelectric operation unit so that the plurality of thermoelectric devices provide the same thermal feedback.

Here, the controller may further include a controller that applies a thermal feedback signal to the thermoelectric operation unit so that some of the plurality of thermoelectric devices provide the same thermal feedback.

Here, it may further include a controller that applies a thermal feedback signal to the thermoelectric operation unit so that some of the plurality of thermoelectric devices provide first thermal feedback and other portions of the plurality of thermoelectric devices provide second thermal feedback. You can.

Here, the first thermal feedback and the second thermal feedback may be provided at different times, and the first thermal feedback and the second thermal feedback may be the same thermal feedback.

According to another aspect of the present invention, it is provided in a ring shape centered on a first axis, a front surface perpendicular to the first axis, a rear surface perpendicular to the first axis and formed on an opposite side of the front surface, and connecting the front surface and the rear surface. a cushioning member including a side surface and having a depression formed in at least a portion of the rear surface and providing a cushioning effect; and a thermoelectric operation unit disposed to correspond to the depression and including a thermoelectric device that performs a thermoelectric operation, wherein the buffer member is configured to act as an external force between the front surface and the thermoelectric operation unit. As the shape is deformed, a cover for a feedback device may be provided that provides restoring force between the front surface and the thermoelectric operation unit, and the thermoelectric operation unit provides thermal feedback to a surface that does not face the depression of the thermoelectric operation unit. there is.

Here, the thermoelectric operation unit may include a plurality of thermoelectric devices.

Here, a greater number of depressions than the number of thermoelectric devices are formed in the buffer member, and the thermoelectric devices may not be disposed in some of the depressions.

Here, the thermoelectric device includes a thermoelectric module including an N-type semiconductor, a P-type semiconductor, and an electrode connecting the N-type semiconductor and the P-type semiconductor, a heat dissipation member that radiates heat generated from the thermoelectric module to the outside, and the thermoelectric module. and a heat transfer member that provides a heat transfer path between the module and the heat dissipation member, wherein the thermoelectric module is disposed to face the depression, and the heat transfer member is between the depression and the thermoelectric module. The heat dissipating member may be disposed such that a portion of the heat dissipating member is connected to the heat transfer member and corresponds to a side surface of the buffer member along the first axial direction from the heat transfer member.

Here, the heat dissipation member has a concavo-convex structure formed on a surface that does not face the buffer member, so that the thickness of the heat dissipation member changes along the first axis direction and changes along the second axis direction perpendicular to the first axis. may be substantially the same.

I. HMD with thermoelectric device

1. Overview

A head-mounted display (hereinafter referred to as “HMD”) refers to any display device worn on the head. HMD is mainly used as a device to implement virtual reality or augmented reality. In general, visual information is provided to the user through the HMD, and in some cases, auditory information is also provided.

Furthermore, for practical implementation of virtual reality or augmented reality, thermal stimulation such as heat and cold sensations can be provided to the user along with visual information and auditory information. Thermal feedback, a type of thermal stimulation, mainly means allowing the user to feel a thermal sensation by stimulating the thermal sensory organs distributed on the user's body. In this specification, thermal feedback refers to all the thermal sensations that stimulate the user's thermal sensory organs. It means comprehensively encompassing thermal stimulation.

Representative examples of thermal feedback include warm feedback and cold feedback. Warm feedback refers to applying heat to hot spots distributed on the skin so that the user feels warm, and cold feedback refers to applying cold heat to cold spots distributed on the skin to make the user feel cold. it means.

Here, since heat is a physical quantity expressed in the form of a positive scalar, the expression 'applying cold heat' may not be a strict expression from a physical perspective. However, for convenience of explanation, in this specification, the phenomenon in which heat is applied is applied warm heat. It is expressed as being applied, and the opposite phenomenon, that is, the phenomenon of absorbing heat, is expressed as cold heat being applied.

Additionally, in this specification, thermal feedback may further include thermal grill feedback in addition to warm feedback and cold feedback. When hot and cold heat are given at the same time, the user perceives them as a sensation instead of individual sensations of warmth and cold. This sensation is called the so-called thermal grill illusion (TGI). In other words, thermal grill feedback refers to thermal feedback that applies hot and cold heat in combination, and can mainly be provided by simultaneously outputting warm feedback and cold feedback. Additionally, thermal grill feedback may also be referred to as thermal sensory feedback in that it provides a sensation close to real sensation.

The thermal feedback that the HMD provides to the user can be implemented through a thermoelectric device. A thermoelectric device is a device that can output thermal feedback. When a thermal feedback signal is applied to the thermoelectric device, the thermoelectric device can output one of warm feedback, cold feedback, and heat grill feedback depending on the thermal feedback signal.

The HMD according to one embodiment may include a display that outputs an image, a shock absorbing member that provides a cushioning effect to increase the user's wearing comfort, and a thermoelectric device that provides thermal feedback. Here, the HMD may further include a housing in which a display is installed.

1 is a perspective view of an HMD according to an embodiment. Referring to FIG. 1 , the HMD 10 according to one embodiment may include a housing 300, a shock absorbing member 100, a thermoelectric device 200, and a controller 400. As the controller 400 applies a thermal feedback signal to the thermoelectric device 200, the thermoelectric device 200 may output thermal feedback. The cushioning member 100 can provide a place where the thermoelectric device 200 can be installed in the HMD 10 and can increase the user's wearing comfort. The housing 300 may provide a space where a display can be installed and a place where the buffer member 100 can be installed on the HMD 10.

Hereinafter, the HMD 10 that provides thermal feedback to the user using the thermoelectric device 200 will be described in detail.

2. Use of thermoelectric devices in HMD

A thermoelectric device 200 may be placed on the user's face to provide thermal feedback. When a user wears the HMD 10, the HMD 10 may contact the forehead, forehead, cheekbones, bridge of the nose, etc. Thermal feedback can be provided to the user by placing the thermoelectric device 200 on the face part that the HMD 10 contacts.

The thermoelectric device 200 may be disposed in any area where the HMD 10 is in contact with the facial area. One thermoelectric device 200 may be installed in the HMD 10, or a plurality of thermoelectric devices 200 may be installed. The thermoelectric operation unit refers to one thermoelectric device 200 or a plurality of thermoelectric devices 200.

Figure 2 is a diagram of an area where a thermoelectric device is placed on the face according to one embodiment. Referring to FIG. 2, the facial area in contact with the HMD 10 can be divided into six areas. Hereinafter, the rectangular area labeled with the alphabet of FIG. 2 and bordered with a dotted line will be expressed as a highlight area. For example, a highlight area labeled A is expressed as Highlight A.

The thermoelectric device 200 may be arranged to correspond to the entire highlight area.

Alternatively, the thermoelectric device 200 may be disposed only in part of the highlight area. For example, three thermoelectric devices 200 may be arranged to correspond to highlight A, highlight B, and highlight C, respectively.

One thermoelectric device 200 may be arranged to correspond to a plurality of highlight areas. For example, one thermoelectric device 200 may be provided horizontally along the eyebrow to correspond to all highlight A, highlight B, and highlight C.

For placement of the above-described thermoelectric device 200 on the face, the thermoelectric device 200 may be provided installed on a face cover.

Figure 3 is a diagram of an area where a thermoelectric device according to an embodiment is disposed on a buffer member. Figure 3 shows the face portion being positioned in the direction that penetrates the ground. Accordingly, when the cushioning member 100 shown in FIG. 3 is mounted on the face part shown in FIG. 2, the same highlight areas can be arranged to correspond to each other. For example, highlight A, highlight B, and highlight C of FIG. 2 may be arranged to correspond to highlight A, highlight B, and highlight C of FIG. 3, respectively.

2 and 3 illustrate the case where the thermoelectric device 200 is disposed in six highlight areas, but this is an example and the thermoelectric device 200 may be disposed in various ways to provide thermal feedback to the user. .

Additionally, the highlight area shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 is only an example of an area where the thermoelectric device 200 is disposed, and the area in contact with the thermoelectric device 200 is not limited to this. As an example, the thermoelectric device 200 may be arranged to contact only a portion of the highlight area. As another example, the thermoelectric device 200 may be disposed to contact at least a portion of the highlight area and an area outside the highlight area.

The thermoelectric device 200 may receive a thermal feedback signal and output thermal feedback. For example, when a first thermal feedback signal is applied to the thermoelectric device 200, the thermoelectric device 200 may output thermal feedback. As another example, when a second thermal feedback signal is applied to the thermoelectric device 200, the thermoelectric device 200 may output cooling feedback. As another example, when a third thermal feedback signal is applied to the thermoelectric device 200, the thermoelectric device 200 may output thermal grill feedback.

The plurality of thermoelectric devices 200 may be controlled to provide the same thermal feedback to each other. For example, the same thermal feedback signal may be input to the plurality of thermoelectric devices 200 and the same thermal feedback may be output from the plurality of thermoelectric devices 200.

A plurality of thermoelectric devices 200 may be connected to each other in series. Alternatively, a plurality of thermoelectric devices 200 may be connected to each other in parallel. In some cases, when a plurality of thermoelectric devices 200 are connected to each other in series, control of the thermoelectric devices 200 may be smooth.

Below, we will look at providing thermal feedback to the user when the user is in virtual reality or augmented reality using the HMD 10.

For example, when a cold sensation needs to be delivered to the user, such as when a cold object touches the user's skin, the thermoelectric device 200 may be controlled to output a cooling sensation feedback. As another example, when the user needs to convey a sense of warmth to the user, such as by going near a bonfire, the thermoelectric device 200 may be controlled to output a sense of warmth feedback.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3 , the HMD 10 according to one embodiment may have three thermoelectric devices 200 arranged to correspond to highlight A, highlight B, and highlight C, respectively. When providing thermal feedback to a user, the three thermoelectric devices 200 may receive thermal feedback signals and output the same thermal feedback. For example, when trying to provide a sense of warmth to a user, the three thermoelectric devices 200 may output a sense of warmth feedback. As another example, when trying to provide a cooling sensation to a user, the three thermoelectric devices 200 may output cooling sensation feedback.

A plurality of thermoelectric devices 200 may be controlled to provide different thermal feedback.

Some thermoelectric devices 200 may be controlled to output thermal feedback and other thermoelectric devices 200 may be controlled not to output thermal feedback. For example, while the first thermoelectric device 200 outputs thermal feedback, the second thermoelectric device 200 may not output thermal feedback. As another example, while the first thermoelectric device 200 and the second thermoelectric device 200 output cooling feedback, the third thermoelectric device 200 and the fourth thermoelectric device 200 may not output thermal feedback.

Some thermoelectric devices 200 may be controlled to output first thermal feedback and other thermoelectric devices 200 may be controlled to output second thermal feedback. For example, while the first thermoelectric device 200 outputs warm feedback, the second thermoelectric device 200 may output cold feedback. As another example, the third thermoelectric device 200 and the fourth thermoelectric device 200 may output heat grill feedback while the first thermoelectric device 200 and the second thermoelectric device 200 output cooling feedback.

Below, we will look at providing thermal feedback to the user when the user is in virtual reality or augmented reality using the HMD 10. When the thermoelectric device 200 is capable of independent control, the HMD 10 according to an embodiment may provide thermal feedback considering directionality to the user.

For example, when a cold sensation is transmitted from the user's left side, such as when a cold object touches the user's left side, the thermoelectric device 200 disposed to correspond to the left part of the face may be controlled to output a cooling sensation feedback. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3 , the thermoelectric device 200 arranged to correspond to highlight C and/or highlight F may output cooling sensation feedback.

As another example, when a sense of warmth is transmitted from above the user, such as when there is a hot object above the user, the thermoelectric device 200 disposed to correspond to the upper part of the face may be controlled to output a sense of warmth feedback. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3 , thermoelectric devices 200 arranged to correspond to highlight A, highlight B, and/or highlight C may output thermal feedback.

The HMD 10 according to one embodiment may provide thermal feedback in consideration of the user's movements. For example, when there is a cold object to the left of the user and the user turns his head to the left, a constant temperature range from the thermoelectric device 200 arranged to correspond to the left part of the face to the thermoelectric device 200 arranged to correspond to the right part of the face is used. Cooling sensation feedback can be output at time intervals. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3 , the thermoelectric device 200 arranged to correspond to highlight C and/or highlight F outputs cooling feedback, and highlights B and/or after a first time interval as the user turns his head to the left. /or the thermoelectric device 200 arranged to correspond to highlight E outputs a cooling feedback, and the thermoelectric device arranged to correspond to highlight A and/or highlight D after a second time interval as the user turns his head further to the left. (200) may output cooling feedback.

As another example, when there is a hot object above the user and the user raises his head upward, a certain time interval is elapsed from the thermoelectric device 200 arranged to correspond to the upper part of the face to the thermoelectric device 200 arranged to correspond to the lower part of the face. You can print out thermal feedback. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3 , the thermoelectric device 200 arranged to correspond to highlight A, highlight B, and/or highlight C outputs thermal feedback, and highlights D after a certain time interval as the user raises his head upward. , the thermoelectric device 200 arranged to correspond to highlight E and/or highlight F may output thermal feedback.

In addition, the HMD 10 according to one embodiment may provide thermal feedback in various ways by considering the user's movements, and is not limited to the above-described examples. In addition to the method of independently controlling the plurality of thermoelectric devices 200 described above, the plurality of thermoelectric devices 200 can be independently controlled in various ways.

4 and 5 are block diagrams of implementation examples of a control circuit of a thermoelectric device according to an embodiment.

Power can be applied to the controller through a wired connection from an external power supply. Alternatively, power may be applied to the controller through a battery.

Figure 4 is an example of a control circuit when the thermoelectric operation unit provides the same thermal feedback. Referring to Figure 4, power may be applied to the controller. Power can be applied to the h-bridge circuit through a constant current converter. Power can be applied to the communication module through a constant voltage converter. The communication module can communicate wired and/or wirelessly. Here, the communication module may be a Bluetooth module. The communication module can apply signals to the constant current converter and H bridge circuit. The strength of the thermal feedback of the thermoelectric module may change depending on the signal applied by the communication module to the constant current converter. The signal may be pulse width modulation (PWM). The type of thermal feedback of the thermoelectric module may change depending on the signal applied by the communication module to the H bridge circuit. The signal may be a general purpose input/output (GPIO) type.

Figure 5 is an implementation example of a control circuit when a plurality of thermoelectric modules 200 are independently controlled. Referring to FIG. 5, a plurality of constant current converters and H bridge circuits may be provided to independently control a plurality of thermoelectric modules 200.

The communication module may apply different signals to the constant current converter so that the thermoelectric module 200 outputs thermal feedback of different strengths. Alternatively, the communication module may apply the same signal to the constant current converter so that the plurality of thermoelectric modules 200 output thermal feedback of the same intensity.

The communication module may apply different signals to the H bridge circuit so that the thermoelectric module 200 outputs different types of thermal feedback. Alternatively, the communication module may apply the same signal to the H bridge circuit so that the plurality of thermoelectric modules 200 output the same type of thermal feedback.

Hereinafter, the structure and configuration of the HMD 10 will be described in detail.

3. Configuration of HMD

The buffer member 100 may contact the user's face when the user wears the HMD 10. In order to increase the user's wearing comfort, the cushioning member 100 may provide a cushioning effect. Alternatively, the cushioning member 100 may provide elasticity/restoring force.

When the thermoelectric device 200 is installed on the buffer member 100, the thermoelectric device 200 may not be in close contact with the skin due to the curvature of the user's face. If the thermoelectric device 200 is not in close contact with the skin, the user may not feel it even if thermal feedback is output. The cushioning effect of the buffer member 100 can help the thermoelectric device 200 adhere to the skin.

The buffer member 100 may be provided in a ring shape. Here, the ring shape should be interpreted broadly to include not only a shape in which a string shape is bent and the two ends are joined, but also a string shape that is bent but the two ends are not joined.

A depression may be formed in the buffer member 100. The depression may be formed on one side of the buffer member 100. The one side may be a side that comes into contact with the user's face when the user wears the HMD 10.

A thermoelectric device 200 may be installed in the depression. Alternatively, the thermoelectric device 200 may not be installed in the recessed portion.

A plurality of depressions may be formed in the buffering member 100. The thermoelectric device 200 may be installed in some of the plurality of depressions, and the thermoelectric device 200 may not be installed in other parts.

The depression in which the thermoelectric device 200 is not installed can be used as an inflow and outflow passage for air. For example, when a user wears the HMD 10 according to an embodiment, the cushioning member 100 without a recess may contact the skin. As the HMD 10 is worn, sweat may appear on the user's face or the temperature inside the HMD 10 may increase, causing moisture to accumulate inside the HMD 10 or the user may feel uncomfortable. On the other hand, when the HMD (10) according to one embodiment includes a buffer member (100) with a recessed portion, air can flow in and out between the inside and the outside of the HMD (10) through the recessed portion. ) can prevent moisture from accumulating inside the device or provide a comfortable fit to the user.

When the thermoelectric device 200 is installed in a recessed portion of the cushioning member 100, the recessed portion may increase the fixing force of the thermoelectric device 200 to the cushioning member 100. Alternatively, the depression may prevent deterioration of the user's wearing comfort due to the thermoelectric device 200.

Figure 6 is a perspective view of the buffer member 100 according to one embodiment. Referring to FIG. 6, the buffer member 100 may be provided in a ring shape with an open bottom. The user's nose may be located in the open lower area.

A depression 110 may be formed on one surface of the buffering member 100. Referring to FIG. 6, three depressions 110 may be formed in the upper part of the buffer member 100, and one depression 110 may be formed on each of the left and right sides. One surface on which the depression 110 is formed may be a surface that contacts the user's face when the user wears the HMD 10.

The thermoelectric device 200 according to an embodiment may include a thermoelectric module and a heat dissipation member.

Alternatively, the thermoelectric device 200 according to one embodiment may include a thermoelectric module, a heat transfer member, and a heat dissipation member.

Here, the thermoelectric module may refer to a module that performs a thermoelectric operation such as a power generation operation using a temperature difference or a heating/cooling operation using electrical energy using thermoelectric effects such as the Seebeck effect or Peltier effect.

The heat transfer member may transfer and/or emit heat generated as the thermoelectric module operates. As an example, the heat transfer member may transfer heat generated from the thermoelectric module to the heat dissipation member. As another example, the heat transfer member may radiate heat generated from the thermoelectric module to the outside.

The heat dissipation member may radiate the absorbed heat to the outside.

7 and 8 are perspective views of a first implementation of a thermoelectric device 200 according to an embodiment. Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8 , a heat transfer member may be disposed below the thermoelectric module 210. The heat dissipation member may be disposed perpendicular to the thermoelectric module 210 and the heat transfer member.

Hereinafter, the structure and configuration of the thermoelectric device 200 according to an embodiment will be described in detail.

The thermoelectric module 210 may be provided in a plate shape. Additionally, the thermoelectric module 210 may have flexibility (hereinafter referred to as “flexible thermoelectric module”). Although the flexible thermoelectric module 210 is basically provided in a plate shape, it has flexibility capable of curving and can be transformed into various shapes, including curved shapes.

Figure 9 is a perspective view of an implementation example of the thermoelectric module 210 according to one embodiment. Referring to FIG. 9 , the thermoelectric module 210 may include an external substrate (), a thermoelectric element 211, an electrode 213, and a terminal 215.

A pair of external substrates may be spaced apart from each other to face each other. The external substrate can support the thermoelectric element 211 or the electrode 213 disposed therebetween. Additionally, the external substrate may perform the function of protecting the thermoelectric element 211 or the electrode 213 therein from the outside.

The external substrate () may be made of a material that conducts heat easily and has flexibility. For example, the external substrate may be a thin polyimide (PI) film. Polyimide film not only has excellent flexibility, but although it does not have a high thermal conductivity, it can be manufactured in a thin thickness, so it can be advantageous for heat conduction.

The thermoelectric element 211 may be a device that induces a thermoelectric effect such as the Seebeck effect or Peltier effect. Basically, the thermoelectric element 211 may include a first thermoelectric element 211 and a second thermoelectric element 211 made of different materials that form a thermoelectric couple that causes a thermoelectric effect. The first thermoelectric element 211 and the second thermoelectric element 211 are electrically connected to form a thermocouple pair. A thermocouple can generate a temperature difference when electrical energy is applied, and conversely, it can produce electrical energy when a temperature difference is applied. A representative example of the thermoelectric element 211 is a pair of bismuth and antimony. Also, recently, a pair of N-type semiconductors and P-type semiconductors is mainly used as the thermoelectric element 211.

The electrode 213 electrically connects the thermoelectric element 211. The thermoelectric element 211 can generate a thermoelectric effect when at least the first thermoelectric element 211 and the second thermoelectric element 211 made of different materials are electrically connected to form a thermoelectric pair. Therefore, the electrode 213 basically connects the first thermoelectric element 211 and the second thermoelectric element 211 that are adjacent to each other to form a thermocouple pair.

Additionally, the electrode 213 can connect a plurality of thermoelectric elements 211 in series. The thermoelectric elements 211 connected in series by the electrodes 213 may form a thermoelectric group that simultaneously performs the same thermoelectric operation.

The electrode 213 may be mainly made of a metal material such as copper or silver, but is not limited thereto.

The terminal 215 is a terminal that connects the thermoelectric module 210 to the outside. When the thermoelectric module 210 is used as a heat outputting module, the terminal 215 can supply power for the thermoelectric module 210 to perform a heating/cooling operation using the Peltier effect. Additionally, when the thermoelectric module 210 is used as a thermoelectric generating module, the terminal 215 can transmit power generated by the thermoelectric module 210 using the Seebeck effect to the outside.

One pair of terminals 215 is provided for each thermoelectric group, and can be connected to thermoelectric elements 211 at both ends of the electric circuit among the thermoelectric elements 211 connected in series within the thermoelectric group.

Referring to FIG. 9, the thermoelectric module 210 may have a plurality of thermoelectric elements 211 arranged in a two-dimensional array. In the two-dimensional array, the thermoelectric elements 211 may be alternately arranged with the first thermoelectric elements 211, for example, N-type semiconductors, and the second thermoelectric elements 211, for example, P-type semiconductors, alternating with each other.

The thermoelectric module 210 may include a support layer. The support layer may be located between the pair of external substrates 217. The support layer may support the thermoelectric element 211 and the electrode 213. Accordingly, the thermoelectric element 211 and the electrode 213 can be supported by the support layer along with the external substrate 217.

The support layer may be made of a flexible material so that the flexible thermoelectric module 210 can maintain flexibility. For example, the support layer can be a foam layer with internal pores like a sponge. Here, the foam layer may be formed by filling a foaming agent between a pair of external substrates 217. As the foaming agent, organic foaming agents, inorganic foaming agents, physical foaming agents, polyurethane, and silicon foam may be used.

When the thermoelectric module 210 includes a support layer, the thermoelectric element 211 and the electrode 213 can be supported by the support layer, so the external substrate 217 may not necessarily be necessary. One of the pair of external substrates 217 shown in FIG. 9 may be removed. Alternatively, both of the pair of external substrates 217 may be removed. When the external substrate 217 is removed, the flexibility of the flexible thermoelectric module 210 may be improved.

The heat transfer member 230 may transfer heat generated from the thermoelectric module 210 to the heat dissipation member 250. Alternatively, the heat transfer member 230 may receive heat generated from the thermoelectric module 210 and emit it to the outside.

The heat transfer member 230 may be implemented by including a material with high thermal conductivity. For example, the heat transfer member 230 may be implemented using metal and/or alloy materials.

The heat transfer member 230 may be disposed below the thermoelectric module 210. Alternatively, the heat transfer member 230 may be disposed between the thermoelectric module 210 and the heat dissipation member 250 to form a heat transfer path between the thermoelectric module 210 and the heat dissipation member 250.

Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8 , the thermoelectric module 210 may be provided to have a first thickness in the x-axis direction on the yz plane. The heat transfer member 230 may have a second thickness in the x-axis direction on the yz plane and may be disposed in the -x-axis direction of the thermoelectric module 210. Here, the first thickness and/or the second thickness may vary depending on the area.

The heat dissipation member 250 may receive heat from the heat transfer member 230 and radiate it to the outside. For example, heat generated as the thermoelectric module 210 operates is transferred to the heat dissipation member 250 through the heat transfer member 230, and the heat dissipation member 250 may radiate the received heat to the outside. . Alternatively, the heat dissipation member may receive heat directly from the thermoelectric module 210 and radiate it to the outside.

The heat dissipation member 250 may be made of a material with high thermal conductivity. As an example, the heat dissipation member 250 may be implemented using metal and/or alloy materials such as aluminum and magnesium. As another example, the heat dissipation member 250 may be implemented using a thermally conductive polymer. In addition, the heat dissipation member 250 can be implemented with various materials such as ceramic, carbon composite material, polymer/metal composite material, and polymer/ceramic composite material.

One region of the heat dissipation member 250 is arranged to correspond to the high temperature region and the other region is disposed to correspond to the low temperature region. The heat dissipation member 250 may be formed in a structure that can increase the area in contact with the low temperature area. For example, one area of the heat dissipation member 250 may be plate-shaped and another area may be provided in the form of a fin. Alternatively, the other region may be formed to have protrusions and depressions.

Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8 , the heat dissipation member 250 may be arranged perpendicular to the thermoelectric module 210 and/or the heat transfer member 230. The thermoelectric module 210 may be provided to have a first thickness in the x-axis direction on the yz plane. The heat transfer member 230 may have a second thickness in the x-axis direction on the yz plane and may be disposed in the -x-axis direction of the thermoelectric module 210. The heat dissipation member 250 may have a third thickness in the z-axis direction on the xy plane and may be disposed in the +z-axis direction of the heat transfer member 230. Here, the first thickness, the second thickness, and/or the third thickness may vary depending on the area.

A concavo-convex structure 251 may be formed on the heat dissipation member 250. Referring to FIG. 7 , a concavo-convex structure 251 may be formed on one surface of the heat dissipation member 250 in the +z-axis direction. As shown in FIG. 7, the concave-convex structure 251 may be formed to have substantially the same thickness in the y-axis direction and vary in thickness in the x-axis direction.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a second implementation of a thermoelectric device 200 according to an embodiment. Unlike the concavo-convex structure 251 of FIG. 7, the concavo-convex structure 251 of FIG. 10 may be formed to have substantially the same thickness in the x-axis direction and vary in thickness in the y-axis direction.

Depending on the uneven structure 251 of the heat dissipation member 250, the area of the heat dissipation member 250 in contact with the thermoelectric module 210 may vary, and the thermal conductivity from the thermoelectric module 210 to the heat dissipation member 250 may vary. there is. For example, the area where the heat dissipating member 250 shown in FIG. 7 is in contact with the thermoelectric module 210 is larger than the area where the heat dissipating member 250 shown in FIG. 10 is in contact with the thermoelectric module 210. Accordingly, the thermal conductivity from the thermoelectric module 210 of FIG. 7 to the heat dissipation member 250 may be greater than the thermal conductivity from the thermoelectric module 210 of FIG. 10 to the heat dissipation member 250.

11 and 12 are perspective views of a first implementation of a cover for a feedback device according to an embodiment. A cover for a feedback device according to an embodiment may include a cushioning member 100 and a thermoelectric device 200.

A thermoelectric device 200 may be installed in the depression 110 formed in the buffer member 100. For example, referring to Figures 6 and 11, a thermoelectric device 200 is installed in each of the three depressions 110 formed in the upper part of the buffer member 100, and the depressions 110 formed in the left and right sides are The thermoelectric device 200 may not be installed. The thermoelectric device 200 may contact the user's forehead and/or eyebrows.

The depression depth of the depression 110 may be lower than or equal to the thickness of the thermoelectric device 200. For example, referring to FIGS. 6 and 7 , the depression depth of the depression 110 may be lower than or equal to the thickness of the thermoelectric module 210 and the heat transfer member 230. Alternatively, in a state in which there is no external force, the surface in contact with the face portion of the thermoelectric module 210 may protrude or be on the same plane as the outer surface on which the recessed portion 110 of the buffer member 100 is not formed.

Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12 , the thermoelectric device 200 may be installed on the buffer member 100 so that the thermoelectric module 210 can contact the user's face when the user wears the HMD 10. The heat dissipation member 250 is disposed to correspond to the outer side of the buffer member 100 and can radiate heat to the outside of the HMD 10.

Referring to FIG. 12 , a plurality of thermoelectric devices 200 may be electrically connected through a connection line 500. In this case, the thermoelectric devices 200 may output the same thermal feedback. Alternatively, the plurality of thermoelectric devices 200 may not be connected to each other, and only some of the plurality of thermoelectric devices 200 may be connected to each other. Although the connection line 500 is shown exposed to the outside of the buffer member 100 in FIG. 12, the connection line 500 may be installed inside the buffer member 100.

Figure 13 is a perspective view of a second implementation of a cover for a feedback device according to an embodiment. Referring to FIG. 13 , a single thermoelectric device 200 may be installed on top of the buffer member 100. A single depression 110 may be formed on the top of the cushioning member 100. The thermoelectric module 210 may be disposed along a surface in a direction in contact with the face portion of the buffer member 100. The thermoelectric module 210 may be in contact with the user's forehead and/or eyebrows.

Figure 14 is a perspective view of a third implementation of a cover for a feedback device according to an embodiment. Referring to FIG. 14 , a single thermoelectric device 200 may be installed on top of the buffer member 100. The thermoelectric module 210 may be installed only in a portion of the upper portion of the buffer member 100, and the heat dissipation member 250 may be installed to be longer than the area where the thermoelectric module 210 is installed in a direction perpendicular to the face. As the area of the heat dissipation member 250 increases, the heat dissipation performance of the heat dissipation member 250 may be improved.

The thermoelectric device 200 may include a connection member 270. The connection member 270 may connect the thermoelectric module 210 to at least one of the heat transfer member 230 and the heat dissipation member 250. The connection member 270 may protect the thermoelectric device 200. The connection member 270 may increase the thermal conductivity of the thermoelectric device 200.

Figure 15 is a perspective view of a thermoelectric device 200 including a connecting member according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 15 , the connection member 270 may be disposed in the border area of the thermoelectric module 210.

The HMD 10 according to one embodiment may include a controller 400. The controller 400 may be provided integrally with the HMD 10. Alternatively, the controller 400 is provided in a detachable manner so that it can be installed and removed from the HMD 10. If the controller 400 is provided in a detachable manner, the HMD 10 equipped with the thermoelectric device 200 can be manufactured without changing the structure of the existing HMD 10 that does not include the thermoelectric device 200.

In the above, the configuration and features of the present invention have been described based on the examples, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and various changes or modifications may be made within the spirit and scope of the present invention. It is obvious, and therefore, it is stated that such changes or modifications fall within the scope of the attached patent claims.

10: HMD 100: buffer member
110: depression 200: thermoelectric device
210: thermoelectric module 211: thermoelectric element
213: electrode 215: terminal
217: external substrate 230: heat transfer member
250: heat dissipation member 251: uneven structure
270: connection member 300: housing
400: Controller 500: Connection line

Claims (14)

A housing including a front part and a rear part formed opposite the front part, mounted on the user's face, and having a display installed on the rear part to output an image to provide an image to the user;
a cushioning member disposed in an edge area of the rear portion, providing a cushioning effect and having at least one depression formed; and
A thermoelectric operation unit is inserted into the depression and includes a contact surface in contact with the user's facial skin and a thermoelectric device that performs a thermoelectric operation to provide thermal feedback to the user through the contact surface.
The thermoelectric device,
It includes a thermoelectric module that performs a thermoelectric operation, a heat dissipation member that radiates heat generated by the thermoelectric module to the outside, and a heat transfer member that provides a heat transfer path between the thermoelectric module and the heat dissipation member,
The thermoelectric module is arranged to face the depression,
The heat transfer member is disposed between the depression and the thermoelectric module,
The heat dissipation member extends from the outside of the heat transfer member toward the front of the housing, and has a concavo-convex structure formed on a surface that does not face the buffer member, so that the thickness of the heat dissipation member varies along the first axis direction. And, substantially the same along the second axis direction perpendicular to the first axis,
Head mounted display.

delete According to claim 1,
The thermoelectric operation unit includes a plurality of thermoelectric devices.
Head mounted display.
According to clause 3,
The plurality of thermoelectric devices are disposed on the buffer member to contact the user's forehead area when the user wears the head mounted display.
Head mounted display.
According to clause 3,
A greater number of depressions than the number of thermoelectric devices are formed in the buffer member,
The thermoelectric device is not disposed in some of the recesses, allowing air to flow in and out between the inside and outside of the head-mounted display, thereby preventing moisture from accumulating inside the head-mounted display.
Head mounted display.
According to clause 3,
Further comprising a controller that applies a thermal feedback signal to the thermoelectric operation unit so that the plurality of thermoelectric devices provide the same thermal feedback.
Head mounted display.
According to clause 3,
Further comprising a controller that applies a thermal feedback signal to the thermoelectric operation unit so that some of the plurality of thermoelectric devices provide the same thermal feedback.
Head mounted display.
According to clause 3,
A controller configured to apply a thermal feedback signal to the thermoelectric operation unit so that some of the plurality of thermoelectric devices provide first thermal feedback and other portions of the plurality of thermoelectric devices provide second thermal feedback.
Head mounted display.
According to clause 8,
The first thermal feedback and the second thermal feedback are provided at different times,
Characterized in that the first thermal feedback and the second thermal feedback are the same thermal feedback.
Head mounted display.
It is provided in a ring shape centered on a first axis and includes a front surface perpendicular to the first axis, a rear surface perpendicular to the first axis and formed opposite the front surface, and a side connecting the front surface and the rear surface, and the rear surface. A cushioning member having a depression formed in at least a portion of the member and providing a cushioning effect; and
A thermoelectric operation unit disposed to correspond to the depression and including a thermoelectric device that performs a thermoelectric operation.
The buffer member provides a restoring force between the front surface and the thermoelectric operation unit as the shape of the buffer member is deformed when an external force acts between the front surface and the thermoelectric operation unit,
The thermoelectric operation unit provides thermal feedback to a surface that does not face the depression of the thermoelectric operation unit,
The thermoelectric device includes a thermoelectric module including an N-type semiconductor, a P-type semiconductor, and an electrode connecting the N-type semiconductor and the P-type semiconductor, a heat dissipation member that radiates heat generated in the thermoelectric module to the outside, and the thermoelectric module; It includes a heat transfer member that provides a heat transfer path between the heat dissipation members,
The thermoelectric module is arranged to face the depression,
The heat transfer member is disposed between the depression and the thermoelectric module,
The heat dissipation member is disposed such that a portion of the heat dissipation member is connected to the heat transfer member and corresponds to a side surface of the buffer member along the first axial direction from the heat transfer member,
A concavo-convex structure is formed on a surface that does not face the buffer member, so that the thickness of the heat dissipation member varies along the first axis direction and is substantially the same along the second axis direction perpendicular to the first axis.
Cover for feedback device.
According to claim 10,
The thermoelectric operation unit includes a plurality of thermoelectric devices.
Cover for feedback device.
According to claim 11,
A greater number of depressions than the number of thermoelectric devices are formed in the buffer member,
The thermoelectric device is not disposed in some of the depressions.
Cover for feedback device.
delete delete

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