TW202403390A - Head-mounted display system, virtual reality display apparatus,and augmented reality display apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

A head-mounted display system includes a positioning and stabilising structure structured and arranged to hold a display unit in an operational position over a user's face in use and an interfacing structure for the display unit constructed and arranged to be in opposing relation with the user's face. The interfacing structure comprises a substantially continuous face engaging surface adapted to contact the user's face around a periphery of the user's eyes. The interfacing structure comprises silicone. The interfacing structure is configured and arranged such that force applied to the user's face is distributed around the periphery thereof. The interfacing structure comprises a first compliance at a first region and a second compliance at a second region, wherein the first region and the second region are configured around the periphery of the interfacing structure to allow selective distribution of the force onto the user's face.

Description

Head-mounted display systems, virtual reality display devices, and augmented reality display devices

This technology generally relates to head mounted displays, positioning and stabilizing structures, user interface structures and other components for head mounted displays, related head mounted display components and systems, including display units and positioning and stabilizing structures, interfaces Structure and or components and methods. The present technology finds specific application in the use of virtual reality head-mounted displays, and is described in this context. However, it should be understood that the present technology may have broader applications and may be used in other head mounted display devices including augmented reality displays.

head mounted display

It will be understood that if any reference is made herein to any prior art, such reference does not constitute an admission that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or any other country.

Virtual reality headsets enable users to have a fully immersive experience in a virtual environment and have a wide range of applications in fields such as communications, training, medical and surgical practice, engineering, and video games.

Virtual reality head-mounted displays are typically provided as systems or elements that include a display unit arranged to remain in an operating position in front of the user's face. The display unit typically includes a housing containing a display and a user interface structure constructed and arranged in relative relationship to the user's face, ie, the user interface structure faces or is positioned opposite the user's face. The user interface structure may extend around the display and incorporate the housing to define a viewing opening to the display. The user interface structure may engage the user's face and include padding for user comfort and/or be light-sealed to intercept ambient light from the display. The head mounted display system further includes a positioning and stabilizing structure arranged on the user's head to maintain the display unit in a proper position.

Interface structure

The head mounted display may include user interface structures. Due to its direct contact with the user's face, the shape and configuration of the interface structure will have a direct impact on the effectiveness and comfort of the display unit.

Designing user interface structures presents many challenges. The face has a complex three-dimensional shape. The size and shape of the nose and head vary greatly between individuals. Because the head consists of bone, cartilage, and soft tissue, different areas of the face respond differently to mechanical forces.

One type of interface structure extends around the perimeter of the display unit and is intended to seal against the user's face when force is applied to the user interface, with the interface structure in face-to-face engagement with the user's face. The interface structure may include padding made of polyurethane (PU). With this type of interface structure, there is often a gap between the interface structure and the face, and additional force will be required to force the display unit against the face in order to achieve the desired contact.

An area completely unoccupied by the display unit may allow a gap to form between the facial interface and the user's face, through which undesirable light pollution may enter the display unit. Light pollution can reduce the effectiveness and enjoyment of the user’s overall virtual reality experience. Additionally, previous systems may have been difficult to adjust to accommodate a variety of head sizes. Furthermore, the display unit and associated positioning and stabilizing structures may often be relatively heavy and may be difficult to clean, which may thus further limit the comfort and usability of the system.

Another type of interface structure incorporates a sheet-like seal of thin material located on a portion of the perimeter of the display unit to provide a seal against the user's face. As with previous types of interface structures, if the fit between the face and the interface structure is not good, additional force may be required to achieve a seal, or light may leak into the display unit during use. Additionally, if the shape of the interface structure does not match the shape of the user, it may wrinkle or bend during use, resulting in undesirable light transmission.

Positioning and stabilizing structures

In order to maintain the display unit in its correct operating position, the head mounted display system further includes positioning and stabilizing structures arranged on the user's head. In the past, these positioning and stabilizing structures have been formed as deployable rigid structures, with straps or deployable rigid structures typically applied under tension to the user's head to hold the display unit in its operating position. Such systems tend to exert clamping pressure on the user's face, which can cause discomfort to the user at localized pressure points. Also, previous systems could be difficult to adjust for a wide range of head sizes. Furthermore, display units and associated positioning and stabilizing structures are often heavy and difficult to clean, which further limits the comfort and usability of the system.

Certain other head mounted display systems may not be functionally suitable for this technology. For example, positioning and stabilizing structures designed for decoration and visual aesthetics may not have the structural capacity to maintain appropriate pressure around the face. For example, too much clamping pressure may cause discomfort to the user, or alternatively, insufficient clamping pressure on the user's face may not effectively seal the display from ambient light.

Certain other head mounted display systems may be uncomfortable or impractical for this technology. For example, if the system is used for an extended period of time.

Because of these challenges, some head-mounted display systems suffer from one or more of the following issues: obtrusive, unsightly, expensive, disproportionate, difficult to use, and especially when worn for long periods of time or when the user is unfamiliar with the system Uncomfortable. Incorrectly sized positioning and stabilizing structures can result in reduced comfort and thus shortened service life.

Therefore, the interface portion of the user interface for a fully immersive experience of the virtual environment is subject to forces corresponding to the user's movements during the experience.

Material

Materials used for the head-mounted display assembly include dense foam for the contact portions in the interface structure, a rigid shell for the housing, and positioning and stabilizing structures formed by rigid plastic clamping structures. These materials have various disadvantages, including not allowing the skin covered by the material to breathe, being inflexible, difficult to clean and prone to collecting bacteria. As a result, products made from this material may be uncomfortable to wear over long periods of time, causing skin irritation in some individuals and limiting the application of the product.

Therefore, there is a need for an improved system that does not have the above disadvantages.

[Reference to Related Applications] This application claims PCT Patent Application No. PCT/AU2020/051158 filed on March 27, 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Portions of the disclosure of this patent document contain copyrighted material. The copyright owner has no objection to the reproduction by anyone of the patent files or patent disclosure, as they appear in the Patent Office file or records, but otherwise reserves any copyright rights whatsoever.

One aspect of the technology relates to a positioning and stabilizing structure for a head mounted display system (or user interface), the positioning and stabilizing structure including a rear support structure arranged to contact the user during use the back area of the head. In some forms, the posterior support structure includes a hoop having an occipital portion and a parietal portion.

The cuff, or at least one of its occipital and parietal portions, may be elastically extendable along at least a portion of its length. In some forms, the hoop is flexible along at least a portion of its length. In some forms, where the rear support structure is a hoop, the occipital portion may extend to the lower portion of the user's head such that it resists upward movement (due to its position in contact with the occipital region of the head) and thereby provides the system with anchor. In some forms, the hoop is oriented in a generally vertical plane (eg, a vertical plane including the coronal plane).

In some forms, the posterior support structure is positioned behind the base of the user's upper ear.

Another aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning and stabilizing structure for a head mounted display system, the positioning and stabilizing structure including a back support and a front support, the back support being arranged to contact a user in use The rear region of the head, the front support portion being arranged to contact the front region of the user's head in use, the back support portion and the front support portion extending transversely to the sagittal plane. In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure further includes an adjustment mechanism to allow adjustment between the back support and the front support.

In some forms, the adjustment mechanism allows lateral adjustment between the rear support and the front support. In some forms, the adjustment mechanism allows for angular adjustment between the rear and front supports.

Another aspect of the technology relates to a positioning and stabilizing structure for a head mounted display system, the positioning and stabilizing structure comprising a rear support portion and a front support portion, the rear support portion being arranged to contact a user in use The rear region of the head, the front support being arranged to contact the front region of the user's head in use, the rear and front supports extending transversely to the sagittal plane and being laterally offset from each other.

In some forms, the rear support or occipital support is biased into contact with the user's occipital region.

Another aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning and stabilizing structure for a head mounted display system, comprising: a support arranged to accommodate the weight of a display unit of the head mounted display system in use; and one or more An adjustment mechanism allows the position of the display unit to be adjusted relative to the support part.

In some forms, adjustment of the display unit relative to the support may be angled relative to the user's head and/or in a front-to-back direction.

Another aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning and stabilizing structure for a head mounted display system including a stretchable and rigid elastic member that is substantially inextensible and elastic .

In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure further includes opposing connectors disposed on opposite sides of the user's head and extending in use along the temporal region of the user's head to interconnect the rear support structure or supports. connected to the display unit.

In some forms, the connector is rigid along at least a portion of its length. In some forms, each connector includes an arm having a front end connected to the display unit and one of a rear end or support connected to the rear support structure. In some forms, the arms are rigid. In some forms, the rear ends of the arms are disposed at or behind the user's supra-ear base.

In some forms, at least one connector further includes an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the positioning and stabilizing structure to accommodate heads of different sizes. In some forms, the adjustment mechanism is provided at the junction between the posterior end of the temporal arm and the posterior support structure.

In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure includes one or more connection tabs connected to an arm of the connector (ie, the connector arm), and an adjustment mechanism allows adjustment of the effective length of the connection tabs. In some forms, the rear end of the connector arm includes an eyelet arranged to receive the connecting tab, and the adjustment mechanism includes releasable fastening means to secure the connecting tab to the temporal arm. In some forms, the releasable fastening means may be arranged for fastening the free end of the tab back to the proximal portion of the tab. Releasable fastening devices may take other forms, such as clips or retainers that allow friction, interference, snaps, or other mechanical fastening devices.

In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure may further include a forehead support connector. In some forms, the forehead support connector may extend generally in the direction of the sagittal plane and connect the rear support structure or the front support portion to the upper edge region of the display unit. In some forms, the forehead support connector may include a strap. In some forms, the strap of the forehead support connector may be elastically extendable along at least a portion of its length. In some forms, the strap of the forehead support connector may be flexible along at least a portion of its length.

In some forms, the forehead support connector may also include an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the positioning and stabilizing structure to accommodate different sized heads. In some forms, the adjustment mechanism may adjust the effective length of the strap of the forehead support connector when the forehead support connector is in that form.

In some forms, the forehead support connector also includes a forehead support rigidiser that provides rigidity to a portion of the forehead support connector. In some forms, the forehead support stiffener provides rigidity to a portion of the forehead support connector positioned along the forehead area of the user's head. The extension and positioning of the forehead support rigid member may account for the correct positioning of the display unit and relieve pressure exerted on the user's cheekbones. In some forms, the forehead support rigidity may be adjustable (angular or translational) with respect to other components of the forehead support connector (or adapted to be adjustable (angular or translational) with respect to other components of the forehead support connector). (Movements), such as forehead support connector straps, enable fine positioning of the head-mounted display unit and help improve user comfort and fit.

In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure further includes additional rigid members that may bridge other parts of the structure, such as rear support structures, front or rear supports, and/or connector arms. In some forms, these additional rigid members may account for controlling the movement of the display unit about the rear support structure to further stabilize and support the system. In some forms, these additional stiffeners may limit articulation movement at the junction of the temporal connector with the posterior support structure. In some forms, these additional rigid members may also extend along the occipital region of the rear support structure to further anchor the display unit in its proper operating position. In some forms, these additional rigid members may be adjustable (angular or translational) with respect to other components of the forehead support connector (or adapted to be adjustable relative to other components of the forehead support connector). Angled or translational)) to further aid comfort, adjustability and fit.

In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure may permit upward (eg, upward) pivoting movement of the display unit to allow movement of the display unit to a non-operating position without requiring removal of the positioning and stabilizing structure (eg, flip-up style) . In some forms, the pivoting movement of the display unit involves pivoting means including positioning and stabilizing structures. In some forms, the pivoting device may provide a release mechanism at the forehead support connector and/or provide a limited articulation area at the temporal connector.

Any of the above forms of positioning and stabilizing structures may be included in, integrated into, or releasably attached to, or releasably attached to, a protective cap or other head apparel. Positioning and stabilizing structures may also include other components integrated within them, such as audio, tactile (tactile) stimulation or feedback.

Another aspect of the present technology relates to an interface structure of a head-mounted display unit that is constructed and arranged in a relative relationship to a user's face.

In some forms, the interface structure includes a face-engaging surface that includes one or more silicone regions, or one or more layers of fabric material or foam.

In some forms, the interface structure may have varying compliance to allow for more selective distribution of force to the user's face. In some forms, one or more areas of the face-engaging surface may be formed to have varying thicknesses and/or varying surface finishes, whereby when pressed against the user's face in use, the resulting The facial engaging surface may have variable compliance therealong.

In some forms, the interface structure includes a face joint, a support structure that supports the face joint in place, and a chassis that may be rigid (i.e., a rigid chassis).

Another aspect of the technology relates to an interface structure for a head mounted display system that extends around a display and defines a viewing opening of the display. In some forms, the interface structure may include a plurality of adjustable face engaging portions located on respective ones of the left-hand and right-hand sides of the interface structure. The adjustable face joints are moveable relative to each other.

In some forms, the adjustable face engaging portion is moveable relative to the chassis of the interface structure. The interface structure may include an adjustment mechanism, such as a sliding blade (or slidable tab) or a rack-and-pinion adjustment mechanism, to allow the user to selectively adjust the spacing of the face joints.

In some forms, the interface structure includes components and/or regions removably mounted to the housing of the display unit.

One aspect of the present technology relates to a head mounted display system that includes a positioning and stabilizing structure constructed and arranged to maintain a display unit in an operating position above a user's face. The positioning and stabilizing structure includes a support cuff including a rear support portion adapted to contact a rear region of the user's head and a front support portion adapted to contact a front region of the user's head. The rear support portion of the support hoop is adapted to extend in a first plane, and the front support portion of the support hoop is adapted to extend in a second plane, and the first plane of the rear support portion and the second plane of the front support portion are Each is adapted to extend transversely to the sagittal plane. The support hoop includes an offset configuration in which the rear support portion is offset from the front support portion such that the first plane of the rear support portion is arranged to be aligned with the front support portion. The second plane of the front support part is in a different plane. In an example, the head mounted display system may further include a display unit.

One aspect of the present technology involves positioning and stabilizing structures that maintain the display unit in an operating position above the user's face. The positioning and stabilizing structure includes a support cuff including a rear support portion adapted to contact a rear region of the user's head and a front support portion adapted to contact a front region of the user's head. The rear support portion of the support hoop is adapted to extend in a first plane, and the front support portion of the support hoop is adapted to extend in a second plane, and the first plane of the rear support portion and the second plane of the front support portion are Each is adapted to extend transversely to the sagittal plane. The support hoop includes an offset configuration in which the rear support portion is offset from the front support portion such that the first plane of the rear support portion is arranged to be aligned with the front support portion. The second plane of the front support part is in a different plane.

One aspect of the present technology relates to a head mounted display system that includes a positioning and stabilizing structure constructed and arranged to maintain a display unit in an operating position above a user's face. The positioning and stabilizing structure includes a support cuff including a rear support portion adapted to contact a rear region of the user's head and a front support portion adapted to contact a front region of the user's head. The rear support portion of the support hoop is adapted to extend in a first plane and the front support portion of the support hoop is adapted to extend in a second plane, the third support portion of the rear support portion being adapted to extend in a second plane. Each of a plane and a second plane of the anterior support is adapted to extend transversely to the sagittal plane. The rear support portion and the front support portion are moveable relative to each other into at least an offset configuration in which the rear support portion is offset from the front support portion such that the The first plane of the rear support is arranged in a different plane than the second plane of the front support. In an example, the head mounted display system may further include a display unit.

In examples, the head mounted display system may further include an adjustment mechanism constructed and arranged to allow selectable adjustment of the rear support relative to the front support. In an example, the adjustment mechanism may be constructed and arranged to allow for an in-line configuration in (1) wherein the first plane of the rear support is arranged coplanar with the second plane of the front support. Selectable adjustment between at least one offset configuration described in (2). In one example, the at least one offset configuration forms a spacing or displacement between the first plane and the second plane, and the adjustment mechanism allows for selectable adjustment of the spacing or displacement. In an example, the adjustment mechanism may allow for angular adjustment of the angle formed between the first plane of the rear support and the second plane of the front support. In an example, the rear support may include an elastic strap that is biased into contact with the user's occipital region. In an example, the rear support portion may be configured and arranged to engage the user's head along a portion of the occipital bone. In an example, the front support may be configured and arranged to engage the user's head along the upper portion of the frontal bone. In an example, the head mounted display system may further include at least one connector constructed and arranged to interconnect the rear support portion and the front support portion to the display unit. In an example, the rear support portion and the front support portion in the offset configuration may create moments configured to offset or resist moments caused by the display unit. In an example, the rear support portion includes an elastic strap that is biased into contact with a portion of the occipital bone, the elastic strap creating an additional moment to counteract or resist the force caused by the display unit. of torque. In an example, the display unit includes a housing including a display visible to a user when the head mounted display unit is in the operating position, and an interface structure constructed and arranged to interface with The user's face is in opposing relationship and the user interface structure extends around the display and defines a viewing opening to the display. In an example, the positioning and stabilizing structure may further include a pair of central support structures, each of the pair of central support structures being adapted to be positioned about a respective one of the user's ears, and wherein the display unit is rotatable ground to the pair of central support structures to enable the display unit to rotate relative to the Frankfurt level. In examples, at least one of the front support portion and the rear support portion may be rotatable relative to the pair of central support structures.

One aspect of the present technology involves positioning and stabilizing structures that maintain the display unit in an operating position above the user's face. The positioning and stabilizing structure includes a support cuff including a rear support portion adapted to contact a rear region of the user's head and a front support portion adapted to contact a front region of the user's head. The rear support portion of the support hoop is adapted to extend in a first plane, and the front support portion of the support hoop is adapted to extend in a second plane, and the first plane of the rear support portion and the second plane of the front support portion are Each is adapted to extend transversely to the sagittal plane. The rear support portion and the front support portion are moveable relative to each other into at least an offset configuration in which the rear support portion is offset from the front support portion such that the The first plane of the rear support is arranged in a different plane than the second plane of the front support.

In an example, the positioning and stabilizing structure may further include an adjustment mechanism constructed and arranged to allow for selectable adjustment of the rear support relative to the front support. In an example, the adjustment mechanism may be constructed and arranged to allow for an in-line configuration in (1) wherein the first plane of the rear support is arranged coplanar with the second plane of the front support. Selectable adjustment between at least one offset configuration described in (2). In one example, the at least one offset configuration forms a spacing or displacement between the first plane and the second plane, and the adjustment mechanism allows for selectable adjustment of the spacing or displacement. In an example, the adjustment mechanism may allow for angular adjustment of the angle formed between the first plane of the rear support and the second plane of the front support. In an example, the rear support may include an elastic strap that is biased into contact with the user's occipital region. In an example, the rear support portion may be configured and arranged to engage the user's head along a portion of the occipital bone. In an example, the front support may be configured and arranged to engage the user's head along the upper portion of the frontal bone. In an example, the positioning and stabilizing structure may further include at least one connector constructed and arranged to interconnect the rear support portion and the front support portion to the display unit. In an example, the rear support portion and the front support portion in the offset configuration may create moments configured to offset or resist moments caused by the display unit. In an example, a portion of the posterior support includes an elastic strap that is biased into contact with a portion of the occipital bone, the elastic strap creating an additional moment to counteract or resist the force exerted by the display Moment caused by the element. In an example, the positioning and stabilizing structure may further include a pair of central support structures, each of the pair of central support structures being adapted to be positioned about a respective one of the user's ears, and wherein the display unit is rotatable ground to the pair of central support structures to enable the display unit to rotate relative to the Frankfurt level. In examples, at least one of the front support portion and the rear support portion may be rotatable relative to the pair of central support structures.

One aspect of the present technology relates to a head mounted display system including a positioning and stabilizing structure constructed and arranged to maintain a display unit in an operating position above a user's face during use. The positioning and stabilizing structure includes a support portion configured and arranged to accommodate the weight of the head mounted display unit. The support portion includes a pair of central support structures, each of the pair of central support structures being adapted to be positioned about a respective one of the user's ears. In an example, the display unit is rotatably connected to the pair of central support structures to enable the display unit to rotate relative to the Frankfurt level. In an example, the head mounted display system may further include a display unit.

One aspect of the present technology involves positioning and stabilizing structures that maintain the display unit in an operating position above the user's face. The positioning and stabilizing structure includes a support configured and arranged to accommodate the weight of the display unit. The support portion includes a pair of central support structures, each of the pair of central support structures being adapted to be positioned about a respective one of the user's ears. The display unit is rotatably connected to the pair of central support structures to enable the display unit to rotate relative to the Frankfurt level.

One aspect of the present technology relates to a head mounted display system including a positioning and stabilizing structure constructed and arranged to maintain a display unit in an operating position above a user's face during use. The positioning and stabilizing structure includes a rear support portion adapted to contact the rear region of the user's head and a front support portion adapted to contact the front region of the user's head. The rear support portion includes a substantially inextensible and substantially resilient rigid member. The rigid member includes a plurality of slots on at least one side of the rigid member, and the plurality of slots form a plurality of hinges. In an example, the head mounted display system may further include a display unit.

One aspect of the present technology involves positioning and stabilizing structures that maintain the display unit in an operating position above the user's face. The positioning and stabilizing structure includes a rear support portion adapted to contact the rear region of the user's head and a front support portion adapted to contact the front region of the user's head. The rear support portion includes a substantially inextensible and substantially resilient rigid member. The rigid member includes a plurality of slots on at least one side of the rigid member, and the plurality of slots form a plurality of hinges.

One aspect of the present technology relates to a head mounted display system including: a positioning and stabilizing structure constructed and arranged to maintain a display unit in an operating position above a user's face during use; and The interface structure for the display unit is constructed and arranged in relative relation to the user's face. The interface structure includes a substantially continuous face-engaging surface adapted to contact the user's face around the periphery of the user's eyes. The interface structure includes silicone. The interface is configured and arranged such that forces exerted on the user's face are distributed around its perimeter. The interface structure includes a first compliance at a first region and a second compliance at a second region, wherein the first region and the second region are configured about a perimeter of the interface structure to Allowing the force to be selectively distributed to the user's face. In an example, the head mounted display system may further include a display unit.

Another aspect of the present technology relates to an interface structure for a display unit constructed and arranged in relative relationship to a user's face. The interface structure includes a substantially continuous face-engaging surface adapted to contact the user's face around the periphery of the user's eyes. The interface structure includes silicone. The interface is configured and arranged such that forces exerted on the user's face are distributed around its perimeter. The interface structure includes a first compliance at a first region and a second compliance at a second region, wherein the first region and the second region are configured about a perimeter of the interface structure to Allowing the force to be selectively distributed to the user's face.

One aspect of the present technology relates to a head mounted display system including: a positioning and stabilizing structure constructed and arranged to maintain a display unit in an operating position above a user's face during use; and An interface structure for a display unit constructed and arranged in relative relation to a user's face, said interface structure extending around a display and defining (or forming) a viewing opening of said display when said display unit is in position The display is visible to the user when in the operating position. The interface structure includes a face engaging portion at a respective one of the left and right hand sides of the viewing opening, the face engaging portion being constructed and arranged to slidably move relative to each other. In an example, the head mounted display system may further include a display unit.

Another aspect of the present technology relates to an interface structure for a display unit constructed and arranged in relative relationship to a user's face. The interface structure extends around the display and defines (or forms) a viewing opening of the display, which is visible to the user when the display unit is in the operating position. The interface structure includes a movable face engaging portion at a respective one of the left and right hand sides of the viewing opening, the movable face engaging portion being constructed and arranged to slidably move relative to one another.

Another aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted display system or component, which includes any of the above-mentioned forms of positioning and stabilizing structures and/or interface structures, and a display unit connected thereto.

Another aspect of the present technology includes a virtual reality display interface or device, including examples of various aspects of the head-mounted display system described above.

In examples of aspects of the head mounted display system described above, the display unit includes a display configured to selectively output a computer-generated image visible to a user in an operating position.

In an example of the aspect of the head mounted display system described above, the display unit includes a housing.

In some forms, the housing supports the display.

In an example of the aspect of the head mounted display system described above, the display unit includes an interface structure coupled to the housing and arranged opposite a face of the user in the operating position. relation.

In some forms, the interface structure at least partially forms a viewing opening configured to at least partially receive the user's face in the operating position.

In some forms, the interface structure is constructed at least in part from an opaque material configured to at least partially block ambient light from reaching the viewing opening in the operating position.

In an example of the aspect of the head mounted display system described above, the display unit includes at least one lens coupled to the housing and arranged within the viewing opening and aligned with the display so as to be in the operating position.

vIn some forms, the user can view the display through at least one lens.

In an example of the head mounted display system aspect described above, the control system has at least one sensor in communication with the processor.

In some forms, at least one sensor is configured to measure the parameter and communicate the measurement to the processor.

In some forms, the processor is configured to alter a computer-generated image output by the display based on the measurement.

Another aspect of the present technology includes an augmented reality display interface or device, including examples of aspects of the head-mounted display system described above.

In examples of aspects of the head mounted display system described above, the display unit includes a display constructed from a transparent or translucent material and configured to selectively provide a computer-generated image viewable by a user.

In an example of the aspect of the head mounted display system described above, the display unit includes a housing.

In some forms, the housing supports the display.

In an example of the aspect of the head mounted display system described above, the display unit includes an interface structure coupled to the housing and arranged opposite a face of the user in the operating position. relation.

In an example of aspects of the head mounted display system described above, the positioning and stabilizing structure is configured to support the display unit in the operating position.

In an example of the aspect of the head mounted display system described above, the display is configured to align with the eyes of the user in the operating position such that the user can view the physical environment at least partially through the display regardless of computer-generated output from the display. images.

In an example of the above head mounted display system aspect, the head mounted display system further includes a control system having at least one sensor in communication with the processor.

In some forms, at least one sensor is configured to measure the parameter and communicate the measurement to the processor.

In some forms, the processor is configured to alter a computer-generated image output by the display based on the measurement.

In some forms, the at least one lens includes a first lens configured to align with the user's left eye in the operating position and a first lens configured to align with the user's right eye in the operating position. second lens

In some forms, the first lens and the second lens are Fresnel lenses.

In some forms, the display includes a binocular display segmented into a first segment aligned with a first lens and a second segment aligned with a second lens.

In some forms, a controller has at least one button selectively engageable by a user's finger, the controller in communication with the processor and configured to send a message to the processor when the at least one button is engaged. A signal, the processor configured to alter a computer-generated image output by the display based on the signal.

In some forms, the at least one lens includes a first lens configured to align with the user's left eye in the operating position and a first lens configured to align with the user's right eye in the operating position. second lens.

Of course, some of these aspects may form sub-aspects of the present technology. Sub-aspects and/or individual aspects within the aspects may be combined in various ways and also constitute other aspects or sub-aspects of the technology.

Other features of the present technology will become apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description, abstract, drawings, and information contained in the claim.

Before the present technology is described in further detail, it is to be understood that the technology is not limited to the specific examples described herein, which may vary. It should also be understood that the terminology used in this disclosure is for the purpose of describing the particular examples described herein only and is not intended to be limiting.

The following description is provided in relation to various examples that may share one or more common features and/or characteristics. It should be understood that one or more features of any one example may be combined with one or more features of another example or other examples. Additionally, within any of the examples, any single feature or combination of features may constitute a further example.

Head-mounted display systems according to examples of the present technology are constructed and arranged to provide a balanced system that does not tighten excessively at any singular point along the user's head and/or face, while providing a comfortable fit around the user's eyes. A substantially complete seal, i.e., provides or facilitates complete immersion in the use of a virtual reality head-mounted display. That is, head mounted display systems according to examples of the present technology provide a more even fit, are structured and arranged to distribute pressure in a comfortable and stable manner (eg, universal and regional load distribution) to reduce hot spots or localized stress points.

Additionally, head-mounted display systems according to examples of the present technology include soft and flexible (eg, elastic) materials (eg, breathable materials, eg, fabric-foam composites) that are constructed and arranged to allow contact with a user's head. The base is more consistent and cushioned for comfort. Furthermore, the head-mounted display system according to examples of the present technology includes a simple adjustment mechanism to facilitate adjustment on the user's head and allows a wide fitting range.

head mounted display

Positioning and stabilizing structures

In order to maintain the display unit in its correct operating position, the head mounted display system further includes positioning and stabilizing structures arranged on the user's head. Comfortable positioning and stable structures need to be able to adapt to the loads caused by the weight of the display unit in a way that minimizes facial imprinting and discomfort caused by prolonged use. There is also a need to allow for a universal fit without sacrificing comfort, usability and manufacturing cost. Design criteria may include adjustability over a predetermined range for a low-touch simple setup solution with a low dexterity threshold. Further considerations include catering for dynamic environments in which head-mounted display systems can be used. As part of the immersive experience in the virtual environment, users can communicate, i.e. speak, while using the head-mounted display system. In this way, the user's lower jaw or mandible can move relative to other bones of the skull. Additionally, the entire head may move during use of a head-mounted display system (e.g., a virtual reality display). For example, movement may include movement of the user's upper and in some cases lower body, and in particular, movement of the head relative to the upper and lower body.

Figures 3a and 3b illustrate a positioning and stabilizing structure 14 for a head mounted display system or element 10 according to a first example of the present technology. The head mounted display system 10 includes a head mounted display unit 12 (or display unit 12), and a positioning and stabilizing structure 14 for maintaining the display unit 12 in an operating position above the user's face during use.

The display unit 12 includes a user interface structure 11 which is constructed and arranged in relative relation to the user's face, ie the user interface structure faces or is positioned opposite the user's face, as shown in Figure 3c. The user interface structure 11 extends around the display housed by the display unit housing 22 . The user interface structure 11 may extend around the display and define a viewing opening to the display (ie, an opening for viewing). The user interface structure 11 extends around the user's eyes and may engage (eg, light seal) the user's face, for example, along the user's nose, cheeks, and/or forehead.

In the example of Figures 3a to 3c, the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 includes a rear support hoop 16 (also referred to as a rear support structure) adapted to contact an area of the user's head (e.g., positionable On top of the user's head), the connectors are constructed and arranged to interconnect (connect) the rear support hoop 16 and the display unit 12 . In the illustrated example, at least one connector includes opposing temporal connectors 18 disposed on respective sides of the user's head, which connect the rear support cuff 16 to the display unit housing of the display unit 12 The respective rear edge areas 20 of 22 are interconnected, and the forehead support connector 24 extends across the user's forehead bone to interconnect (or connect) the rear support hoop 16 with the upper edge area 21 of the display unit housing 22 . However, it should be appreciated that one or more connectors may be provided to interconnect the rear support cuff 16 and the head mounted display unit 12 .

Temporal connector

Each opposing temporal connector 18 includes a temporal arm 26 . Each temporal arm 26 includes a front end 28 mounted to a corresponding rear edge area 20 of the display unit housing 22 and a rear end 30 forming part of a releasable coupling to connect the temporal arm 26 to the rear support hoop 16 .

In some forms, each temporal arm 26 includes a rigid member 32 , a resilient (eg, elastomeric and/or fabric) member 34 , and a tab 36 disposed at the rear end 30 for connection to the rear support cuff 16 . In one example, a portion of each temporal arm 26 is in use in contact with an area of the user's head, such as above the user's ears, near the supra-auricular base. In one example, the temporal arms 26 are arranged to extend generally along or parallel to the Frankfort Horizontal plane of the head in use, and above the cheekbones of the user, for example, above the cheekbones.

The advantage of the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 is that it is relatively self-supporting and/or capable of retaining its shape without wear. This can make it more intuitive or obvious to the user how to use the positioning and stabilizing structure, and can be in contrast to positioning and stabilizing structures that are completely floppy and do not maintain their shape. In one form, rigid members provide positioning and stabilization of the self-supporting aspects of the structure.

Rigid parts

In some forms of this technology, such as in stiffener 32 , stiffener 32 may take the form of a stiffened and/or thickened element. In one form, the rigid member 32 may be enclosed within a resilient (eg, elastomeric and/or fabric) member 34 of each temporal arm 26 . For example, Figure 3d shows an example of an elastic member 34 (eg, elastomer and/or fabric) in the form of a cover configured to enclose the rigid member 32. In an example, the fabric component 34 includes a face contacting side disposed on one side of the rigid member 32, which may provide a soft face contacting surface 35 adapted to contact the user's face in use. In some alternatives, the rigid member may be sewn or otherwise attached (eg, overmolded) to the elastic component 34, or the elastic component may be made of a material that can be selectively stiffened by heat treatment. For example, Figure 3e shows an example of a resilient member 34 (eg, elastomer and/or fabric) attached to the face contacting side of the rigid member 32, which may provide a soft facial contact adapted to contact the user's face in use. Surface 35. In one example, the elastic component 34 may include a fabric material or a fabric-foam composite (eg, a breathable material, eg, a multi-layer construction including an outer fabric layer and an inner foam layer) to provide soft support to the rigid member 32 to cushion against the impact. Rests on the user's head to optimize comfort. The stiffeners 32 may allow each temporal arm 26 or other components connected or formed thereto to maintain its in-use shape and configuration when not worn by a user. Advantageously, maintaining the temporal arm 26 in the in-use position prior to use prevents or limits deformation when the user puts on the positioning and stabilizing structure and allows the user to quickly fit or don the display system 10 .

In one example, rigid member 32 may be made from a rigid material such as ^Hytrel® (thermoplastic polyester elastomer). In the example of Figures 3a to 3c, the rigid nature (ie, non-extensible) of the rigid member 32 of each temporal arm 26 limits the magnitude of the elongation or deformation of the temporal arm 26 in use. Advantageously, this configuration enables tension to be transferred through the temporal arm 26 more efficiently (ie, directly).

In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure may be designed such that, for example, the positioning and stabilizing structure "comes out of the box" and typically comes into its use configuration or shape. Furthermore, the positioning and stabilizing structure may be arranged out of the box, for example, rigid members may be formed to maintain the shape of some or portions of the positioning and stabilizing structure. Advantageously, the orientation of the positioning and stabilizing structure is clear to the user because the shape of the positioning and stabilizing structure is typically curved, much like the back of the user's head. That is, the positioning and stabilizing structure is generally dome-shaped.

Another aspect of the positioning and stabilizing structure described herein is to direct the display unit 12 into direct contact with the user's face, i.e., the force of the positioning and stabilizing structure, i.e., the force vector, may position the display unit 12 perpendicular or normal to the user. Apply pressure to your face.

In the example, the rigid member 32 forms a lever arm (eg, rigid member arm 32 ), a device that pivots about the rear support hoop 16 . Advantageously, the rear support hoop 16 may provide an anchoring point for the positioning and stabilizing structure 14, thus forming a pivot point. The rigid member may be hinged about the anchoring points of the rear support cuff 16 to enable the forehead support connector 24 to raise or lower the position of the display unit 12 relative to the user's nose. Advantageously, this configuration can minimize the magnitude of clamping pressure to stabilize the display unit 12 on the user's head.

In some forms of the technology, the rigid member may be curved so that it takes the shape of a crescent, semicircle, or partial crescent.

The rigid member arm 32 may have a generally elongated and flat configuration (eg, see Figure 3a). In other words, the stiffener arms are longer and wider (in the direction from top to bottom in the plane of the paper) than thick (in the direction into the plane of the paper). In examples, the thickness and/or width of stiffener arm 32 may vary along at least a portion of its length, for example, stiffener arm 32 may include wider and thinner sections along its length to facilitate connection and distribution. load.

Although the rigid member arms may be flat as shown in Figures 3a to 5c, it will be understood that the rigid member arms may have a desired spatial configuration in the direction into the plane of the paper (see, for example, Figures 6 and 7a to 7c), in particular In order to allow improved alignment with the shape of the user's face, for example the shape of the lateral areas of the user's head (see, for example, Figures 7a to 7c). As shown in Figures 6 and 7a to 7c, the rigid member arm has a A three-dimensional shape having curvature in all three axes (X, Y, and Z). Although the thickness of the rigid member arm 32 may be substantially uniform, its height or width varies throughout its length. The shape of the rigid member arm 32 and The size is intended to conform closely to the user's head so as to remain unobtrusive and maintain a low profile (i.e., without looking overly bulky).

The stiffener arms may have a longitudinal axis, which may be understood as an axis substantially parallel to the plane of the paper, along which the stiffener arms extend (see, as an example, the dashed lines in Figures 5a and 7a).

In some forms of this technology, the rigid member (eg, rigid member arm 32 ) is more rigid than the resilient (eg, elastomeric and/or fabric) member 34 and less rigid than the display unit housing 22 . In particular, the stiffener arms and/or the elastic component are such that in combination they impart shape and increased stiffness to the elastic component in at least one direction or in or about at least one axis.

The rigid member 32 is capable of bending or deforming along its length but resists or prevents the positioning and stabilizing structure from extending along the longitudinal axis of the rigid member (see dashed lines in Figures 5a and 7a). As shown in Figures 5a and 7a, the longitudinal axis of the rigid member extends along the length of the rigid member (eg, approximately through its center) and may be straight (Fig. 5a) or curved (Fig. 7a). The rigid member may be substantially inextensible and elastic. A rigid piece according to the present technology preferably has one or more of the following characteristics: retaining its shape, allowing the component to redirect forces, i.e. force vectors, around a curve, for example around the cheek, or around the ear, the ability to bend and/or in Certain planes provide structures that maintain a predetermined form.

In one form, the rigid member 32 may be flexible or capable of conforming to the user's head along the longitudinal axis of the rigid member. However, in one form, the rigid member may be constructed such that it cannot bend or deform across its width. This allows positioning and stabilizing the structure to be comfortable while maintaining its structural function of anchoring the display in place (e.g. a rigid piece is flexible in one direction (toward the user's head) and flexible in another provide support or load-bearing).

In some forms, rigid member 32 may have an arcuate or curved shape. Bends may be provided in one or more selected areas of the rigid member to allow the rigid member to bend or articulate easily at that area. The bends can be areas of weakness to achieve flexibility in the rigid piece, allowing the weakened portion to act as a living hinge. This flexibility is beneficial for fitting a wider range of user head sizes. The bends may be positioned to allow portions of the rigid member to bend outwardly toward the user's ears and/or inwardly toward the center of the user's head.

In some forms, the rigid member 32 includes a plurality of slots (eg, slots on each side of the arm, ie, on the front and back sides of the arm) and the plurality of slots along components such as the temporal Connector 18) forms multiple hinges. Hinges form flexible sections in each arm. For example, when compared to a rigid piece arm without any flexible parts, the hinge allows the arm to articulate and conform to small changes in the cheek area and distribute the load on the face more evenly when the headband is tensioned. In some forms, where the rigid member extends elongatedly in a generally longitudinal direction, the hinges and/or weakened areas may extend transversely to the longitudinal direction or may extend in the longitudinal direction to increase the allowable compliance.

In some forms, the slots are generally parallel to each other, often evenly spaced from each other, and include similar widths and depths in the thickness of the arms. However, it should be understood that the slots may include other suitable arrangements and configurations to vary the position and flexibility characteristics of the arm, e.g., the number of slots, slots on one or both sides (front and/or rear) of the arm , the spacing between the slots, the width, the depth, the orientation or angle of the slots on the arms (e.g., the slots are angled relative to each other to provide differently oriented bends). In examples, one or more of these slots may be filled with a flexible material, for example, a narrow depression or groove formed by the slot may receive the flexible material. In an alternative example, the hinge may be provided by a plurality of flexible sections (eg, formed from a flexible or bendable material) spaced apart by rigid sections.

In some forms, stiffener 32 may include material that guides or defines the direction or path of stretch of the elastic (eg, elastomeric and/or fabric) component (ie, rear support cuff 16 ). In other words, the user stretches the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the rigid member 32 (see dashed line in Figure 7a). Stretching of the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 in other directions results in a rotation of the rigid member relative to the display unit housing 22, which is undesirable. The rigidity of the rigid member biases the rigid member toward its natural unrotated, untwisted and undeformed state. To some extent, this makes the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 a self-adjusting head-mounted display system. In an example, the rigid member may be biased to a specific size (eg, a relatively small fit), and the rigid member may be adjusted to the user's head, such as by opening or bending outward to scale the head size. , thereby conforming to the shape of the user's head and providing support as needed.

In some forms, a resilient (eg, elastomer and/or fabric) component may encapsulate the rigid component. For example, the fabric can be overmolded onto one side of the rigid piece (eg, see Figure 3e). The rigid piece may be encapsulated within a suitable elastic (eg elastomer and/or fabric) material to improve user comfort and wear resistance (eg, see Figure 3d). Fabric may be disposed on the user contact side of the rigid member to provide soft contact with the user's skin.

In some forms, the rigid member may be formed separately from the elastic member, and then a protective sleeve (cover or surround) containing user contact material (eg, Breath-O-Prene™) may be wrapped or slid over the rigid member. In alternative embodiments, the rigid member may be made from adhesives, ultrasonic welding, sewing, hook and loop materials, and/or stud connections. In one embodiment, user contacting material (i.e., a soft or comfortable material arranged to contact the user's skin during use (eg, Breath-O-Prene™)) may be on both sides of the rigid member, or may Optionally only on the user contact side of the rigid member to reduce material bulk and cost.

The stiffener may also be formed from an additional layer of material applied to the elastic component, such as silicone, polyurethane, or other adhesive materials, which may be applied to the elastic component to strengthen the elastic component. Silicone beads or polymer overmolding can also be used.

Rigid parts may have a composite structure composed of two or more materials (rigid or semi-rigid). For example, rigid pieces can be constructed by thickening or treating the fabric to make it stiffer or to prevent the material from stretching. In examples, the fabric may be printed such that the ink from the printing limits or reduces the fabric's ability to stretch. Additionally, the fabric can be stitched in selected areas to stiffen it. Furthermore, the fabric can be ultrasonically welded in selected areas to stiffen the fabric.

In some alternatives, the rigid member may be constructed from a nonwoven material (eg, mesh) such that it resists stretching in at least one direction. Alternatively, the rigid member may be formed from a woven material where the grain of the material is aligned so that the fabric does not stretch in the transverse direction when in use to secure and anchor the positioning and stabilizing structure.

In an example, the rigid member may be formed from Hytrel® and the display unit housing 22 may be formed from polypropylene (PP). PP is a thermoplastic polymer with good fatigue resistance. Hytrel® is ideal for forming the rigid member 32 because this material resists creep. Since these materials cannot be integrated integrally, the display unit housing 22 may be overmolded onto the rigid member 32 to form a strong connection, i.e., between the front end 28 of the temporal arm 26 and the rear edge region 20 of the display unit housing 22 .

In an alternative form, the rigid member (such as the rigid member arm) may be made of TPE providing high elastic properties. For example, Dynaflex™ TPE compound or ^Medalist® MD-1 15 can be used. The housing can be made of polypropylene (PP) material. The advantage of a rigid piece molded in TPE is that it enables the rigid piece and the display unit housing to be permanently connected to each other. In other words, a fusion bond or chemical bond (molecular adhesion) is formed between the two parts.

The joints connecting the rigid members to the display unit housing can provide target points for flexibility, and the joints can be shaped and formed to allow bending in the desired direction and extent. Therefore, once the head mounted display system is worn and the temporal arms 26 are stressed by tension from the rear support cuff 16 of the positioning and stabilizing structure 14, the rigid members 32 can flex at the joints to allow them to maintain the face frame shape while Helps maintain the temporal arm 26 in the desired position relative to the user's face.

Although the rigid member and the display unit housing have been described as being permanently connected to each other, it is contemplated that the rigid member (ie the temporal arm) may be detachable from the display unit housing, for example by mechanical clip (snap-fit) elements. This arrangement may provide a modular system with replaceable display units and/or positioning and stabilizing structures.

Rear support hoop (or support hoop)

The rear support structure or hoop 16 may be in the form of a hoop in the form of a hoop (similar to the hoop form of the rear support hoop 316 shown in Figure 7b) and arranged to have a three-dimensional contour curve to fit or conform to the user's The shape of the back of the head, for example, the shape of the top of the user's head. In an example, the support hoop provides a hoop-like or annular arrangement (eg, a closed loop) adapted for enclosing or encircling a portion of the user's head therebetween. It should be understood that the support hoop is not limited to annular or circular shapes, for example, the support hoop may be oval or partially circular/oval or C-shaped. The rear support cuff 16 includes a parietal portion or parietal strap portion 38 that is adapted in use adjacent the parietal bones of the user's head, and an occipital portion or occipital strap portion 40 that is adapted in use adjacent the parietal bones of the user's head. Occipital bone. In an example, the occipital portion 40 is preferably disposed in use along a portion of the occipital bone, for example, along a portion of the occipital bone adjacent or proximal to the juncture where neck muscles attach to the occipital bone, and the parietal portion 38 is preferably disposed in use behind the coronal plane. In an example, the occipital portion 40 is adapted to be positioned along a portion of the occipital bone above the juncture where the neck muscles attach to the occipital bone. The junction may also be called the external occipital protuberance (EOP). However, the exact location of the occipital portion 40 on the user's head can vary depending on the size and shape of the occipital portion 40 on the user's head for which it is used. For example, the occipital portion 40 can be positioned adjacent to the occipital bone where the neck muscles are located. The part that is attached, above or below it. In an example, the occipital portion 40 may be disposed below or below the occipital bone near the juncture where the neck muscles attach. This hoop-like arrangement of the rear support hoop 16 (e.g., annular or circular or oval or partially circular/oval or C-shaped) anchors the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 around the rear or posterior hump of the user's head. , providing an effective support structure to keep the weight (i.e., the display unit) in front of the user's head. The rear support cuff 16 may be formed from an elastic material that may serve to stretch the cuff and hold the rear support cuff 16 securely in place.

In an example, the three-dimensional shape of the rear support cuff may have a generally circular three-dimensional shape adapted to cup the parietal and occipital bones of the user's head in use.

In the example, the occipital portion 40 engages the occipital bone to hold the occipital portion 40 and the rear support cuff 16 in place and prevent the positioning and stabilizing structure from riding up on the back of the user's head. Additionally, the parietal bone portion 38 may capture or pass over the upper portion of the user's parietal bone, thereby preventing the positioning and stabilizing structure from sliding back down the user's head.

The rear support cuff 16 further includes opposing connecting straps 42 or tabs (see, for example, Figure 3a).

In the example, the rear support cuff 16 is oriented in a generally vertical direction, ie arranged in a vertical plane generally parallel to the coronal plane. This arrangement of the rear support cuff 16 appropriately orients the rear support cuff 16 over the crown of the user's head to support the lateral (ie, horizontal) tension exerted by the connecting straps 42 and to support the weight of the display unit 12 .

The rear support cuff 16 and attachment straps 42 may be formed from elastic and/or fabric materials to help conform to the shape of the user's head, such that the rear support cuff 16 and attachment straps 42 provide stretch capabilities. Furthermore, such elastic and/or fabric material behind the user's head may allow for easier lifting of the display unit 12 away from the user's face, for example, when the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 is held on the user's head. , move the display unit 12 away from the user's eyes to talk to someone. For example, the rear support cuff 16 may be a neoprene material, or other fabric-foam composite material (eg, a breathable material, eg, a multi-layer construction including an outer fabric layer and an inner foam layer), or a spacer fabric. Advantageously, the fabric may provide a soft support structure to stabilize the display unit 12 on the user's head and allow the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 to cushion against the user's head to optimize comfort.

The posterior support cuff including portions of the temporal arm 26 may be stretchable. This enables the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 to be stretched, which results in a comfortable (or relatively flat) force-displacement (or extension) profile. In an example, when positioning and stabilizing structure 14 is stretched apart under load L, strain forces may be distributed substantially evenly across positioning and stabilizing structure 14 . Therefore, the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 has a relatively flat force (y-axis) distribution with respect to the displacement (x-axis), thereby illustrating the change in force as the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 is extended, particularly when compared to prior art structures. Not big.

Adjustable (connection) straps

A strap will be understood to be a structure designed to resist tension. In use, the connection strap 42 is part of the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 which is under tension. In some forms of the present technology, connection strap 42 may be flexible and, for example, non-rigid. One advantage to this is that the attachment straps are more comfortable for the user to tighten around their head.

As will be described, some straps will exert elasticity due to tension. The straps that position the stabilizing structure 14 provide a retaining force to overcome the effects of gravity on the display unit 12 . In this way, the straps may form part of the positioning and stabilizing structure to maintain the display unit in a light-tight position on the user's head.

In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 provides retention forces as a safety margin to overcome the potential impact of destructive forces on the display unit in use, such as from head and body movement, or accidental interference with the display unit. The strap may be configured to direct force in use to draw the interface surface of the display unit 12 into sealing contact with a portion of the user's face. In an example, the straps may be configured as lacing straps.

In the form of FIGS. 3 a to 3 c , the connection strap 42 is adjustable and operates to vary the distance between the rear support hoop 16 and the display unit housing 22 of the display unit 12 . Each connecting strap 42 passes through an eyelet 44 in the panel 36 of the corresponding temporal arm 26 in use. The length of each connecting strap 42 through the corresponding tab 36 of the temporal connector 18 can be adjusted by pulling more or less (adjusting length, ie, adjusting) connecting straps 42 through the corresponding eyelet 44 . The attachment strap 42 may be fastened to itself after passing through the eyelets 44 in the panel 36, such as by hook and loop fastening means, which allows the strap to be finely or minutely adjusted for comfort and fit (eg, tightness). Therefore, the distance between the rear support hoop 16 and the display unit housing 22 can be adjusted to accommodate different head sizes. This adjustable strap arrangement also allows for adjustment when the display unit 12 is on the user's head, for example, the user can pull the connection strap 42 to tighten it rearwardly.

In examples, the thickness and/or width of the rear support cuff 16 and/or connection strap 42 may vary along at least a portion of their length. For example, the posterior support cuff 16 may include wider and thinner sections along its length, such as a wider portion adjacent the attachment strap 42, to facilitate attachment to the temporal arm 26 and distribute load. The connecting strap 42 may also be thinner along its free end to facilitate passage through the eyelet 44 in the corresponding temporal arm 26.

In some arrangements, straps or rigid members provide a compression post arrangement. For example, the rigid member may include a portion with a plurality of holes, and one end of the connection strap 42 may be provided with a stud adapted to be press-fitted into a selected one of the holes (eg, overmolded or ultrasonically welded to the strap). The studs and holes are configured to provide a snap-fit arrangement. In other forms, the strap may be secured to itself through an arrangement of holes and studs.

In some arrangements, an adjustment mechanism is provided for adjusting the distance between the rear support hoop 16 and the display unit housing 22 . The rigid member may include apertures to allow the connection strap 42 to form a loop, thereby forming a looped portion of the connection strap 42 . The rigid member may be provided with a push tab that is spring preloaded or biased to allow engagement and disengagement of the loop portion of the connection strap 42 . The holding portion may be provided on the side of the opening opposite the push piece to allow the user to stabilize the positioning and stabilizing structure on his or her face. The grip portion may prevent disassembly of the ring portion by preventing the ring portion from being pulled back through the aperture.

In some forms of the technology, more than one positioning and stabilizing structure 14 is provided with the display unit, each positioning and stabilizing structure configured to provide a retention force corresponding to a different range of sizes and/or shapes. For example, one form of positioning and stabilizing structure 14 may be suitable for large-sized heads, but not for small-sized heads, while another form of positioning and stabilizing structure may be suitable for small-sized heads, but not for small-sized heads. Large size head. In this way, the display unit can be provided with a different set of positioning and stabilizing structures suitable for different size and/or shape ranges. Advantageously, the display unit is universal and allows for better fit and comfort.

Modifications to the rear support hoop

extended rigid member

Figures 5a-5c illustrate a support for a head mounted display system or element 210 according to a third example of the present technology. In Figures 5a to 5c, the same reference numerals designate similar or identical parts to those in Figures 3a to 3c, but 200 is added to allow, for example, the display device 212, the positioning and stabilizing structure 214, the rear support hoop 216, A distinction is made between examples of the temporal connector 218, the posterior edge area 220, the display unit housing 222, the parietal portion 238, the occipital portion 240, the connecting strap 242, and the like. In a third example, the support for the head mounted display assembly 210 does not include a forehead support, ie, the display unit 212 is supported by the positioning and stabilizing structure 214 without any forehead support connectors or forehead support straps.

Figure 6 illustrates a support for a head mounted display system or element 310 according to a fourth example of the present technology. In the fourth example shown in Figure 6, the same reference numerals designate similar or identical parts as in Figures 3a to 3c, but 300 is added to allow for the display device 312, the positioning and stabilizing structure 314, the rear support, etc. A distinction is made between examples of the hoop 316, the temporal connector 318, the display unit housing 322, the forehead support connector 324, the temporal arm 326, the rigid member 332, the parietal portion 338, the occipital portion 340, the forehead support strap 348, and the like. In a fourth example, a support for a head mounted display system 310 includes opposing temporal connectors 318 , each temporal connector 318 having a temporal arm 326 with an extending rigid member 358 . Each extended rigid member 358 may extend from a respective temporal arm 326 to the rear support cuff 316 to enhance support of the display unit 312 during use. Each extended rigid member 358 may extend along a portion of the rear support cuff 316 and may extend into one or both of the parietal portion 338 and the occipital portion 340 . For example, each extended rigid member 358 may include a Y-shaped shape as shown in FIG. 6 that extends into the parietal portion 338 and the occiput portion 340 . Alternatively, each extending rigid member 358 may extend into only one of the parietal portion 338 and the occipital portion 340, such as only along the occipital portion 340, as shown in Figure 7a discussed below. In the example of FIG. 6 , the parietal and occipital portions of the extended arms of the rigidizer 358 are provided along the parietal and occipital portions 338 and 340 of the rear support cuff 316 which are positioned proximate The parietal and occipital bones of the user's head support corresponding portions of the rear support hoop 316.

The extended stiffener 358 increases the length of the temporal connector 318 thereby increasing the lever arm moment created around the posterior support cuff 316 . In use, when compared to the first and second examples, the larger lever arm extends the moment of inertia further behind the user's head. Advantageously, this may provide better comfort to the user by reducing the tension applied to the forehead support connector 324 to support the display unit 312.

Additionally, the extended arms of rigid member 358 may provide a more even distribution of pressure across the user's head due to the weight of display unit 312 and any clamping forces exerted by tension forces induced in positioning and stabilizing structure 314 .

When the forehead support connector 324 is tightened, the extended arms of the rigid member 358 may prevent the rear support hoop 316 of the positioning and stabilizing structure 314 from moving vertically upward, ie, traveling upward, on the user's head. The extended arms of the stiffener 358 may more effectively secure the occipital portion 340 of the rear support cuff 316 beneath the corresponding occipital bone of the user's head (eg, along the occipital portion adjacent the juncture where the neck muscles attach to the occipital bone).

In other words, the occipital portion 340 of the extended rigid member 358 engages the occipital bone to hold the occipital portion 40 and rear support cuff 16 in place during use. Additionally, in use, the parietal portion 338 of the extended rigid member 358 may capture or pass over the upper portion of the user's parietal bone to prevent the positioning and stabilizing structure from sliding back down the user's head during use.

In embodiments, the parietal portion 338 and the occipital portion 340 may each have different elastic properties to provide increased stability to the positioning and stabilizing structure on the user's face during use.

In examples, parietal portion 338 may be constructed from an extensible material to allow adjustment of the positioning and stabilizing structure during use. For example, parietal portion 338 may be made from an elastic material. The extensibility provided by the elastic parietal bone portion may allow the user a better range of fit. Additionally, occipital portion 340 may be made from a material that has lower ductility than parietal portion 338 . That is, occipital portion 340 may be constructed from a material that stretches less for a given force than the material used for parietal portion 338 . This is to hold the positioning and stabilizing structure in place while allowing some adjustment of the position of the display unit on the user's face.

Offset extended rigid member

Figures 7a to 7c represent a variant of the fourth example of figure 6. In this example, each temporal arm 326 includes an offset extending rigid member 360 . Each offset extended rigid member 360 may extend from the respective temporal arm 326 to the occipital portion 340 of the rear support cuff 316 , ie, generally take the form of a J-shape to enhance support of the display unit 312 in use.

The offset extended rigid member 360 extends along a portion of the occipital bone, such as along a portion of the occipital bone adjacent the junction where the neck muscles attach to the occipital bone, to reliably anchor the positioning and stabilizing structure 314 to the display unit. 312 is supported above the user's nose and cheeks.

As best shown in Figures 7a and 7c, medial and temporal adjustment mechanisms 362, 364 may be provided to the temporal arm 326 and offset extending rigid member 360. The intermediate adjustment mechanism 362 may be adapted to connect the first offset extended rigid member 360 to the second offset extended rigid member 360 such that the intermediate adjustment mechanism 362 is located between the first and second intermediate adjustment mechanisms 362 . The intermediate adjustment mechanism 362 may have an adjustable length to control the distance between opposing arms of the rigid member 360. An intermediate adjustment mechanism 362 may be mounted between opposing arms of the offset extending rigid member 360 about the intermediate region of the occiput. In one example, the intermediate adjustment mechanism 362 may be in the form of a strap that passes through opposing holes 363 in respective rear ends 368 of opposing arms of the offset extended rigid member 360 (see Figure 7b). The distance between the opposing arms of rigid member 360 can be controlled by pulling more or less strap 362 through hole 363.

A temporal adjustment mechanism 364 may be provided on each temporal arm 326 along the temporal region of the user's head. The temporal adjustment mechanism 364 may be adjustable and operate to change the distance between the biased extended rigid member 360 and the display unit housing 322 .

The offset extension rigid member 360 may be formed from a flat member and then bent or deformed into a shape suitable for use. For example, stiffener 360 may be die cut from sheet material.

Adjustable support hoops and offset configuration

Figures 9a-10c illustrate a positioning and stabilizing structure 514 for a head mounted display system 510 in accordance with another example of the present technology. Head mounted display system 510 includes display unit 512, and positioning and stabilizing structure 514 is configured to maintain display unit 512 in place on the user's face.

The positioning and stabilizing structure 514 includes a support cuff 516 positionable between the frontal and temporal bones of the user's head, and opposing connectors 518 disposed on respective sides of the user's head to connect the support cuff 516 Interconnected to the corresponding rear edge area 520 of the display unit housing 522 . In the example shown, when in use, the connector 518 connects to a portion of the support cuff 516 at a location closer to the mid-coronal plane than the anterior coronal plane of the head.

Each connector 518 includes an arm 526 having a front end 528 that mounts to a rear edge area 520 of the display unit housing 522 and a rear end 530 that forms part of a coupling 564 to connect the arm 526 to the support hoop 516 .

The support cuff 516 may have a three-dimensional contour curve to fit or conform to the shape of the user's head. The support cuff 516 includes a front portion 538 (also known as an anterior or anterior support portion) and an occipital portion 540 (also known as a dorsal or posterior support portion), the anterior portion 538 being disposed generally on the frontal or parietal bones, Or between the frontal and parietal bones (e.g., contacting the front area of the user's head), the occipital portion 540 is disposed generally on the occipital or parietal bones, or between the occipital and parietal bones (e.g., contacting the back of the user's head) area). Occipital portion 540 is preferably arranged along a portion of the occipital bone (eg, along a portion of the occipital bone adjacent to the juncture where the neck muscles attach to the occipital bone), and browal portion 538 is preferably arranged to extend anteriorly through the coronal plane Attachment point on the ear. In the example shown, the anterior portion 538 and the occipital portion 540 extend transversely to the sagittal plane. For example, as shown in Figures 10a to 10c, the anterior or anterior support portion 538 of the support cuff 516 is adapted to extend in or lie in the plane 539, and the occipital or posterior support portion 540 of the support cuff 516 is adapted to lie in the plane 549 extends or lies in plane 549, and each of plane 539 and plane 549 is adapted to extend transversely to the sagittal plane. In an example, plane 549 may be referred to as the first plane, and plane 539 may be referred to as the second plane, simply to distinguish planes 549, 539. That is, although the terms "first" and "second" may be used, unless otherwise stated, they are not intended to represent any order, but are simply used to distinguish between different elements, such as planes.

The anterior portion 538 and the occipital portion 540 may be rigid components and include an adjustment mechanism 562 . In particular, the rigid parts of the anterior and occipital parts may be any form of rigid element or rigid element arm as previously described. In examples, the anterior portion 538 and/or the occipital portion 540 may include a plurality of slots (eg, on one or both sides of the anterior portion 538 and/or the occipital portion 540) that form multiple slots along the component. Hinge, see for example slot 543 in the occiput in Figures 9a and 9b. The hinge forms a flexible portion in the front portion 538 and/or the occipital portion 540 . The hinge allows the front portion 538 and/or the occipital portion 540 to articulate and adapt to small changes in the user's head and distribute the load on the head more evenly.

In some forms, the adjustment mechanism 562 may be disposed on one or both rigid member arms, and/or at the connection point between the anterior portion 538 and the occipital portion 540 . The adjustment mechanism 562 may be adjustable and operate to move the anterior portion 538 and the occipital portion 540 relative to each other. In some forms, the adjustment mechanism 562 may be adjustable and operate to change the distance between the anterior portion 538 and the occipital portion 540 (eg, the distance or displacement between the anterior portion 538 and the planes 539 , 549 of the occipital portion 540 545 (e.g., offset), as shown in Figure 10b). In some forms, the adjustment mechanism 562 may be adjustable and operable to change the angle between the anterior portion 538 and the occipital portion 540 .

In some forms, the anterior portion 538 and the occipital portion 540 can be hinged about the adjustment mechanism 562 of the support band 516 such that the anterior portion 538 can, for example, rotate forward or backward relative to the coronal plane and the occipital portion 540 can be raised relative to the Frankfurt level. or lower.

In some forms, the front portion 538 and the occipital portion 540 may be hinged to adjust the distance between the front portion 538 and the occiput portion 540 . In some forms, the adjustment mechanism 562 may include a sliding element wherein at least one anterior or occipital portion may slide between an inline position and at least one offset position. In the upright position, the front part is coplanar with the occipital part. In at least one offset position, the anterior portion is in the offset plane of the occiput (i.e., non-coplanar). The offset plane may or may not be parallel to the plane of the occiput.

The adjustment mechanism 562 may further include a guide 566 for guiding one of the front or occipital portions as they move relative to each other between the inline and offset positions. The guide 566 may take the form of an elongated slot disposed in either the anterior or occipital portion, and a corresponding guide pin disposed in the other of the anterior or occipital portion. Guides 566 enable movement of corresponding guide pins within the elongated slots for sliding adjustment.

In some forms, guide 566 provides camming and sliding motion to the anterior and occipital portions. Guides may take the form of inline, arcuate slots, or other variations to introduce additional motion behavior between the anterior and occipital portions. Additionally, the guide 566 may be positioned at a specific angle relative to the Frankfurt horizontal plane in order to adjust the motion behavior of the anterior and occipital portions 538, 540.

The adjustment mechanism 562 enables the anterior and occipital portions 538, 540 of the cuff 516 to be configured in any one or combination of parallel and coplanar arrangements with each other, parallel and offset with each other, angled with each other and with the temporal arm. Some of the advantages of the above combinations are described below.

Referring to Figure 10a, an in-line configuration is shown in which the anterior portion 538 is disposed in the same plane as the occipital portion 540, as shown in phantom, i.e., the plane 539 formed by the anterior portion 538 of the cuff 516 is aligned with the occipital portion 540 of the cuff 516 The resulting planes 549 are coplanar. The anterior and occipital portions may be moved relative to each other, such as from an in-line configuration to one or more offset positions, such as where planes 539, 549 are non-coplanar. Referring to Figures 10b and 10c, an offset configuration is shown in which the anterior portion 538 has been offset into a plane different from, but parallel to, the plane of the occipital portion 540. As shown in Figures 10b and 10c, the anterior portion 538 may be more or less offset from the occipital portion 540 (eg, an offset configuration forming a gap between plane 549 (eg, first plane) and plane 539 (eg, second plane) spacing, distance or displacement 545, and the adjustment mechanism allows for selective adjustment of the spacing or displacement. That is, in Figures 10b and 10c, the plane 539 formed by the front portion 538 of the hoop 516 and the plane formed by the occipital portion 540 of the hoop 516 549 are offset or non-coplanar. In an example, as shown in Figure 10b, offset planes 539, 540 may be substantially parallel to each other but spaced apart by displacement 545 such that plane 539 is not in line with plane 549 (i.e., substantially Parallel but not coplanar). In an alternative example, as shown in Figure 10c, the offset planes may not be parallel, i.e., plane 539 is arranged at an angle to plane 549.

In some forms, the anterior and occipital portions are constrained into a parallel configuration with each other, ie, these portions cannot rotate out of a parallel configuration. Examples of such configurations are shown in Figures 10b and 10c. Figures 11a and 11b show corresponding schematic diagrams of Figures 10b and 10c respectively.

Referring to the schematic representation of Figure 11a, an in-line configuration is shown, ie there is no offset between the anterior and occipital portions 538, 540. In this configuration, the counterclockwise moment Mw is generated by the weight Fw of the display unit 512 and its horizontal displacement D2 from the pivot point 541 of the display system at the contact area of the front 538 of the support hoop 516 (i.e., Mw = Fw ×D2). Because the anterior and occipital portions 538, 540 are both aligned, there are no internal moments created within the anterior and occipital portions to aid or hinder the resistance provided by the positioning and stabilizing structure 514, i.e., there is no clockwise motion generated by the anterior and occipital portions. moment. By comparison, and with reference to Figure 11b, when an offset (i.e., displacement D1) is introduced between the anterior and occipital parts, a corresponding clockwise moment Mt is generated in hoop 516 (i.e., Mt = Ft × D1), which Helps resist the moment Mw induced on the system by the display unit 512.

In the parallel and offset configuration of Figure 11b, the separation introduced between the anterior and occipital portions creates a clockwise moment Mt that counteracts the counterclockwise moment Mw generated by the display unit 512 on the user's face. Advantageously, this structure can balance the acting moments exerted on the system 510, thereby improving the comfort of use when wearing the positioning and stabilizing structure.

Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 11 a to 11 c , the position of the pivot point 541 indicates the length D2 of the moment arm of the moment Mw caused by the display unit 512 . However, as this pivot point 541 is moved forward on the forehead (under different adjustments of the support hoop 516), the surface on which the front portion 538 will be positioned becomes more vertical. While this may reduce the induced moment, it may require increased clamping pressure on the support collar to resist the support collar 516 from sliding downward. Therefore, achieving a balance between these competing standards allows for a more optimized solution, which contributes to user comfort and fit. In one example, the front portion 538 (e.g., providing pivot point 541) is configured and arranged along the upper portion of the frontal bone or along a portion of the parietal bone (e.g., in the case of a less vertical head shape of the user). (above the forehead) engages the user's head, which allows for a reduction in force to prevent the positioning and stabilizing structure from sliding off the front of the user's head under the weight of the display unit 512 when in use. The reduction in force provides improved comfort while stably supporting the display system. In an example (eg, see Figure 13a), a forehead support 25 (eg, a forehead pad) may optionally be provided to the display unit to provide a lightly loaded contact point at the user's forehead, eg, with To increase stability. In this example, the forehead support would exert less force than the front portion 538, for example to avoid discomfort at the forehead (such as red marks on the skin).

In some other forms, as shown in Figure 11c, in addition to being offset from the anterior portion 538, the occipital portion 540 can be independently angled relative to the anterior portion 538. Adjusting the angle of the occipital portion 540 to become more vertically oriented allows the occipital portion 540 to more effectively apply downward loads to the positioning and stabilizing structure. Advantageously, this may more effectively balance the load on the display unit 512, resulting in a more stable positioning and stable structure. Additionally, adjusting the angle of the occipital portion 540 may more effectively anchor the occipital portion to the user, ie, the unique shape of the user's head. In this example, adjusting the angle of occipital portion 540 increases the offset between the anterior and occipital portions (i.e., displacement D1+), which increases the clockwise moment Mt in hoop 516 (i.e., Mt = Ft × D1+) , to more effectively illustrate the resistance to the moment Mw induced on the system by the display unit 512 .

In some other forms, the anterior portion 538 can be independently angled (or moved) relative to the occipital portion 540 . Angling the front allows the head mounted display system's center of mass to be optimally positioned on the user's head. Advantageously, controlling the location of the center of mass can help balance moment loads on the head-mounted display system and therefore improve the stability of the positioning and stabilization structure. In use, this prevents the headset from sliding down the user's face.

As shown in the embodiment of Figures 9a to 10c, the occipital portion 540 may further include an intermediate adjustment mechanism. In some forms, the adjustment mechanism is in the form of connecting straps 542. For example, as shown in Figure 10a, connecting straps 542 can be installed around the rear, middle region of the occipital portion 540, passing through opposing holes 563 in the respective rear ends 568 of the opposing arms of the occipital portion 540 (similar to the straps in Figure 7b with 362).

The attachment strap 542 may be formed from an elastic material to help conform to the shape of the user's head. In some forms, the distance between the rear ends 568 can be changed by manual control by pulling more or less straps through the holes 563. Both methods of elasticity and manual control are used to maintain positive pressure on the occiput 540, thereby maintaining positioning and stabilizing the structure during use. Advantageously, the connection straps 542 maintain tension in the positioning and stabilizing structure during dynamic loading situations (eg, the user moves their head and body while operating the head mounted display unit 512).

In some forms, the intermediate adjustment mechanism does not support the moment load of the display unit 512 . In this form, the front and occipital portions are configured to balance the head mounted display on the user's head, so that attachment straps 542 are not required to support the moment loads exerted by the display unit 512. In this way, the intermediate adjustment mechanism is decoupled from the supporting loads in the positioning and stabilizing structure.

As shown in Figures 12a and 12b, the positive pressure, or preload, exerted by the connecting straps 542 on the positioning and stabilizing structure holds the occipital portion 540 of the support cuff 516 close to the occiput of the user's head. The load exerted by the occipital portion 540 may be small in magnitude, sufficient to counteract the dynamic loads applied to the head mounted display during use, and not apply undue pressure to the user's occipital portion. The tension applied to the connection strap 542 can help prevent the head mounted display from sliding along the user's face during use.

For example, Figure 12a shows a first example of preload applied by connecting strap 542. In this configuration, the counterclockwise moment Mw is generated by the weight vector Fw of the display unit 512 and its horizontal displacement D2 from the pivot point 541 of the display system (i.e., Mw =Fw×D2), and the clockwise moment Mt is caused by the tension vector An offset between Ft and the anterior and occipital portions 538, 540 (ie, displacement D1) is created in hoop 516 (ie, Mt = Ft × D1) to resist moment Mw. Additionally, an additional force vector Fb is created by bending the occipital portion 540 inward (via the preload applied by the connecting strap 542), which creates an additional moment Mb (ie, Mb =Fb×D3). Therefore, the moments Mt and Mb together more effectively account for the resistance to the moment Mw induced on the system by the display unit 512.

Figure 12b shows a second example of preload exerted by connection strap 542. In this configuration, the counterclockwise moment Mw is generated by the weight vector Fw of the display unit 512 and its horizontal displacement D2 from the pivot point 541 of the display system (i.e., Mw =Fw×D2), and the clockwise moment Mt is caused by the tension vector An offset between Ft and the anterior and occipital portions 538, 540 (ie, displacement D1) is created in hoop 516 (ie, Mt = Ft × D1) to resist moment Mw. Furthermore, an additional force vector Fb2 is created by bending the occipital portion 540 outward (via the preload exerted by the connecting strap 542), which creates an additional moment Mb2 (ie, Mb2 =Fb2×D3). In this example, the moment Mt resists the moments Mw and Mb2 induced on the system.

In some forms, the intermediate adjustment mechanism may include a rigidly constrained elastic portion. For example, a rigidly constrained elastic portion is mounted around the rear, middle region of the occipital portion 540 and passes through opposing holes 563 in each rear end 568 . The length of the rigidly constrained elastic portion can be manually controlled, ie can be adjusted, to increase or decrease the distance between the rear ends 568 and thus adjust the size of the positioning and stabilizing structure to accommodate differently shaped and/or shaped heads.

The rigidly constrained elastic portion includes elastic components and inelastic components. The two parts are connected together, whereby the elongation of the elastic part is limited by the length of the inelastic part. In some forms, the elastic component is shorter in length than the non-elastic component to allow the elastic component to elongate until a length equal to the length of the non-elastic component. For example, when the rigidly constrained elastics are mounted to the positioning and stabilizing structure in use, the user is able to apply dynamic loads to the head-mounted display, e.g., the user jumps and moves around, and the elastics apply to the user's head Sufficient tension to prevent positioning and stabilizing structures from slipping. If the user applies excessive dynamic loads to the head mounted display, the non-elastic component prevents the occipital portion 540 from moving away from the user's head, i.e., loosens the fit, and ensures that the head mounted display does not slip off the user's head. .

Referring to Figure 12c, the positioning and stabilizing structure 514 can provide height adjustment in a manner that provides intuitive fit and adjustment. Additionally, the structure provides responsive stability that caters to the user's dynamic movements. Another feature of this design is that the reaction forces caused by the display unit 512 are accommodated by the front and occipital portions 538, 540 while still allowing fine independent adjustment of the display unit. In particular, adjustment of the display unit 512 in the anterior and posterior directions controls the contact pressure of the interface structure on the face (e.g., adjustment until the forehead pad provided to the interface structure lightly contacts the face), and adjustments in the front portion 538 help adapt Different head sizes and positioning of display unit 512 in an up-down position (e.g., headphone-type adjustment relative to the ears (e.g., self-leveling contacts)), while adjustment of occipital portion 540 helps match the position of the contact point and The amount of reaction moment produced contributes to comfort and load distribution in positioning and stabilizing structure 514 (e.g., occipital portion 540 provides a combination of stiffness for control of pull direction, compliance for comfort and grip , elastic for automatic retention system fit, and with optional adjustment linkage).

Referring to Figure 13b, forehead support connector 524 may also include forehead support rigidity 556. In some forms, the forehead support rigids may be pretensioned to apply a moment load to the positioning and stabilizing structure 514, which moment load causes the display unit housing 522 to rotate inwardly, i.e., rearwardly toward the user's face during use (e.g., arrow). Advantageously, the display unit housing 522 is directed toward (or toward) the user's face without the need for the positioning and stabilizing structure 514 to be tightened by the attachment straps 542 to pull the display unit toward (or toward) the user's face. The moment load created by the pre-tensioned forehead support stiffener 556 acts like a spring load on the display unit 512 . Schematic lines 566 and 568 of Figure 13b show the corresponding loaded and unloaded conditions applied to the rigid member 556. Under load conditions (line 566), the positioning and stabilizing structure is used on the user's head, where the display unit 512 is pushed toward the user's face and the rigid member 556 behaves like a leaf spring, deflected away from the user's face. . In the unloaded or unloaded state (line 568 ), the rigidizer 556 is preloaded to deflect the display unit housing 522 inwardly in preparation for receiving the user's face.

central support structure

Referring to Figures 14a-14b, another embodiment of a positioning and stabilizing structure 614 for a head mounted display system 610 is disclosed. The head mounted display system 610 differs from the embodiment shown in Figures 9a to 13b in that the head mounted display system 610 further includes a central support structure 662, such as a hub component, which is arranged to be positioned around the user's ears. . In the example shown, the central support structure 662 may include a central portion or hub connected to the positioning and stabilizing structure 614 of the anterior portion 638 and/or the occipital portion 640 .

In an example, hub member 662 is rotatably connected to front portion 638 (also called front) and/or occipital portion 640 (also called rear). The anterior and occipital portions may be hinged about the hub 662 such that the anterior portion 638 can rotate forward or backward relative to the coronal plane, for example, and the occipital portion 640 can be raised or lowered relative to the Frankfurt level.

Referring to Figure 14b, examples of two possible configurations of front portion 638 relative to hub 662 are shown. In the first example (shown in solid lines), the anterior portion 638 is disposed proximate the parietal bone. In a second example (shown in dashed lines), the front portion 638 is disposed proximate the frontal bone.

In some forms, the anterior portion 638 can be independently angled (or moved) relative to the occipital portion 640 . The front portion can be adjusted to move toward the center of gravity of the display system. In some forms, the occipital portion can be moved upward or downward to position and stabilize the structure against the occipital support of the user's head. In some other forms, occipital portion 640 may include a type of weight (w) that balances display unit 612 (eg, see Figures 14a and 14b).

Referring to Figure 14c, in use, hub 662 may direct forces (ie, force vectors) exerted by front portion 638 and occipital portion 640 about the user's ear. For example, in some forms, occipital portion 640 may be articulated about hub 662 to a position that is offset and parallel to front portion 638 . In this configuration, the force, ie, vector, applied to occipital portion 640 can translate around the perimeter of hub 662 and through front portion 638 .

Referring now to Figure 14d, in some forms, hub member 662 is also rotatably connected to display unit 612. The display unit may be hinged about hub 662 to enable the display unit to rotate, ie move relative to the Frankfurt level. For example, the display unit is raised or lowered relative to the user's eyes. That is, the positioning and stabilizing structure may permit upward (eg, upward) pivoting movement of the display unit to allow movement of the display unit to a non-operating position without requiring removal of the positioning and stabilizing structure (eg, flip-up). In some forms, the pivoting movement of the display unit involves a pivoting arrangement that includes positioning and stabilizing structures. In some forms, the pivot arrangement may provide a release mechanism at the forehead support connector (e.g., a release mechanism that releasably locks the display unit in an operative (i.e., lowered) and a non-operational (i.e., raised) position) and/or provide a limited articulation area at the temporary connector (e.g., a limited articulation area may limit articulation movement of the temporary connector, for example, at the connection to the display unit).

In some forms, hub member 662 may accommodate some of the weight of display unit 612 thereby creating a pivot axis for head mounted display system 610 about the user's ear and in the region of the mid-coronal plane. This may reduce the load on the front and facilitate angular adjustment of the display unit 612 about the hub 662 .

Examples of two possible configurations of the display unit 612 are shown in Figure 14d. In a first example, the display unit 612 is arranged in front of the user's eyes, that is, generally parallel to the Frankfurt level. In a second example, the display unit is shown in an elevated position above the user's eyes, ie at an angle relative to the Frankfurt level. Advantageously, moving the display unit 612 between these two positions enables the user to remove the display unit 612 from their eyes during use (eg, playing a game) or before putting on and taking off the head mounted display system 610. Move away.

In some forms, audio device (A), namely headphones (eg, noise cancellation), may be located on hub 662 (see Figure 14b). Audio device A may be configured to releasably engage hub 662, such as about a snap-on feature. In some forms, in-use audio device A may be placed on hub 662 to enclose the user's ears.

Materials and Composites

In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 includes a strap constructed from a laminate of an elastic (eg, elastomer and/or fabric) skin-contacting layer, an inner layer of foam, and an outer layer of fabric. In other words, the positioning stabilizing structure 14 includes at least one strap 14 . In one form, the foam is porous to allow moisture (eg, sweat) to pass through the straps. In one form, the fabric outer layer includes loop material to engage the hook material portion, or tab portion 54. In some forms of this technology, the skin-contacting layer is made of materials that help draw moisture away from the user's face. This helps maintain comfort if the user sweats while wearing the UI.

In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilizing structure 14 is provided that is configured to have a low profile or cross-sectional thickness to reduce the perceived or actual bulk of the device (or display system). In the example, the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 includes at least one strap 14 having a generally rectangular cross-section. In another example, the positioning and stabilizing structure includes at least one strap having a profile with one or more rounded edges to provide greater comfort and reduce the risk of the strap marking or irritating the user.

In some forms, the straps of positioning and stabilizing structure 14 may be at least partially made of or include at least one synthetic polymer, such as nylon and/or polyurethane (eg, Lycra). Additionally, the strap may include different layers of different materials, for example. Different layers can be welded to each other. In an example, the strap may include different layers of different materials, for example, an outer layer made of an aesthetically pleasing material and/or a outer layer made of a soft and/or pleasant material facing the user's head. inner layer. For example, the straps that form the parietal portion of the hoop may be made from inexpensive and/or comfortable materials. In another example, referring to Figures 28 and 29, a strap (eg, strap 14) may include an inner layer 17 of low density polyurethane foam having a thickness of 2.5-4.0 millimeters (mm) and configured to surround the inner layer 17. outer layer 15 of layer 17. The outer layer 15 may be formed from a laminate layer made of nylon, polyester, another similar material that can be manufactured to provide a soft outer surface, or a mixture thereof. Laminated layers may include one or more layers. In some forms, outer layer 15 may be formed from a blend of nylon and polyester. Therefore, the choice of strap material can improve the comfort of the strap.

In some forms, the outer layer 15 of the straps of the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 may include elastic members made from elastic nylon braid that are formed to freely (or longitudinally) over the inner layer 17 that serves as a stiffener. ) slide (e.g., Figure 28). The rigid member (ie, inner layer 17) may serve as a frame (or support) for the strap 14, and may be formed from a material such as TPE, which is advantageously both lightweight and provides controlled flexibility.

In an example, the strap may be a single layer component such as elastomer/fabric. Alternatively, the strap may be a composite or multi-layer component, such as a fabric and foam composite, or an outer fabric layer and an inner spacer fabric. The straps may be made from spandex or spandex/foam composite, or may be formed from other suitable materials such as 3D spacer fabric or double-knit interlocking fabric.

Different materials for the strap portion and/or different layers of different straps may be selected depending on the specific properties/functions/requirements. In an example, straps that position and stabilize the structure may be BPA-free and ^Gelamid® may be used in at least part of the straps.

In some forms, it is desirable that at least one material of the strap used to position and stabilize the structure is breathable. In another example, the straps may be formed from a breathable neoprene substitute. For example, neoprene alternatives can have inner and outer elastic layers that include porous, four-way stretch fabric. The inner layer is designed to wick moisture away from the skin's surface, while the outer fabric is a loop fabric designed to receive ^Velcro® hooks.

The fabric on the user contact side may preferably be of the same fabric as the fabric on the non-user contact side so that the tensile properties of the strap are approximately equal on both sides. Furthermore, it is preferred that the fabric on the user contact side has the same heat shrink properties as the non-user contact side. This is to prevent the positioning and stabilizing structure from deforming unevenly when handled or exposed to heat or otherwise thermoformed.

The fabric on the user contact side may be a different fabric than the non-user contact side such that the fabric on the user contact side is more comfortable than the non-user contact side.

The straps may be cut from sheets of material (e.g., flame laminated), or from rolls of narrow elastic (e.g., elastomer and/or fabric) straps, then thermoformed and ultrasonically welded to create rounded edges, which are then ultrasonically welded on Together. The straps may have a geometry that allows them to be nested on the sheet to increase throughput, for example, the geometry may be substantially linear.

In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure may include a strap configured as a separate element. In this way, the positioning and stabilizing structure can be formed by strap elements, ie strap elements. For example, the strap 48 may be connected to the parietal portion 38, such as by a welded joint. Separate components can be joined together during the manufacturing process. Alternatively, the straps that position and stabilize the structure may be configured as or made from a single piece. In another example, strap 48 and parietal portion 38 may be cut from one sheet of material.

Designing the straps individually allows flexibility in making the straps relatively small, which contributes to increased throughput and a simpler manufacturing process. Additionally, the design of the strap may allow for less material waste when cutting from sheet material, for example due to the generally rectangular shape of the parietal strap. Additionally, fabricating the strap elements as separate parts may allow substitution of materials that are less expensive, more comfortable, and/or available in aesthetically pleasing colors.

By using different materials, different strap thicknesses and/or different components, it is possible to additionally reduce the width of the straps of the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 and thus reduce the footprint. Different materials and/or less expensive materials may be used for some components or portions of structure 14, for example with the same support and/or comfort. In an example, the parietal portion of the cuff may have an increased thickness compared to the occipital portion of the cuff. This can increase comfort. Additionally, the smaller overall size of the occipital portion of the hoop may allow the user to bend their head back toward their spine (eg, in the posterior direction) with additional freedom of movement.

The joints between adjacent strap portions may be configured as thinned areas or thinned connections to facilitate bending. The thinned areas can be used as knee points or hinges (e.g., living hinges) to provide increased flexibility when needed. Bend points or hinges can be reinforced using hot melt seam tape, or a thinner layer of fabric with an adhesive backing, or other reinforcement methods.

The hinge feature of this connection allows the straps to better adapt to the shape of the user's head. Combinations of linear and nonlinear joints can be used to achieve the required levels of flexibility and bending direction, as well as the required levels of three-dimensional shaping, to form parts made from a series of parts that are initially flat materials, such as fabric or paper. Such shaping may include darts, pleats, gathered or curved seams.

In some examples, materials with different degrees of flexibility can be combined in an alternating manner to form controlled areas of flexibility. Components can be stacked one on top of another and ultrasonically welded together in such a way that there is no space between them. The user interface components may be constructed of soft materials, such as soft fabrics.

In an example, forehead support connectors 24 extending through the user's forehead bones to connect to support cuff 16 may be connected together by welding, such as by ultrasonic welding. In an example, portions of forehead support connector 24 and cuff 16 may overlap. These components can be placed in ultrasonic welding tools.

The advantage of the ultrasonic welding process is that flush or butt joints do not increase the thickness of the components at the joint and are visually appealing, unlike seams where the components must overlap and the seams result in uneven thickness. Even if the edges of two or more pieces are butted together and sewn without any overlap or substantial overlap to form a stitch, the stitch will produce a rougher, hardened, and raised joint. Additionally, flush or butt joints formed by ultrasonic welding result in a smooth connection, which reduces skin irritation, abrasions or facial marks, even when reinforced with seam reinforcement tape. The advantage of using the overlapping ultrasonic welding variant is that multiple components can be joined in a single machine in one operation. Additionally, the ultrasonic welding process can be designed so that the joint manifests itself as a thinned area or thinned section between the components.

In embodiments, the strap may be thermoformed and then the edges of the strap may be ultrasonically cut. The thermoformed and ultrasonically cut straps provide rounded edges which provide significantly reduced facial markings in use. Additionally, thermoformed and ultrasonically cut edges are softer and have less friction, which provides a more comfortable feel on the user's face during use, such as around the user's ears.

In another embodiment, at least part of the positioning and stabilizing structure may be constructed of spacer fabric, wherein the edges of the spacer fabric may be ultrasonically welded. This rounds the edges of the spacer fabric, reducing facial markings and increasing user comfort.

In embodiments, one or more aspects of the positioning and stabilizing structure may be configured to enhance comfort. For example, the rigid member can be relatively thin. In another example, the strap may include a nylon stiffener encased in foam. In such embodiments, the density of the foam may be increased to improve comfort and reduce the chance of feeling nylon rigid. Alternatively, the thickness of the foam can be used to change the softness or roundness of the edges of the strap. For example, a thicker foam layer is more likely to produce rounder corners than a thinner foam layer. In another embodiment, the foam may start at one thickness and be compressed to another thickness during processing.

In one embodiment, the foam on the user contact side may be less dense or have a lower hardness than the foam on the non-user contact side. It is also possible to have more than one foam layer and more than one component.

In some alternative embodiments, the rigid piece may comprise a semi-rigid molded part overmolded with a soft polymeric material such as TPE, TPU. The polymeric material provides a softer material that contacts the user's face during use. In some forms, molded parts may have a soft-touch or flocked coating.

In some forms of the technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure may be formed with a biocompatible material as the outer surface, such as silicone rubber, fabric laminate, etc. Biocompatible materials can be non-toxic and reduce any risk of skin reactions.

In some forms of the present technology, the positioning and stabilizing structure may be formed from a durable material that can withstand daily use, including repeated disassembly and cleaning.

In some forms, the reduction in the overall weight of the head-mounted display may be proportional to the reduction in one or more of: (a) component count; (b) stiffness of the positioning stabilization structure; (c) the stiffness of the interface structure; and (d) the ability to adjust features of the head-mounted display, such as the ability to adjust, for example, the positioning and stabilization structure or the interface structure.

For example, foam (such as polyurethane foam or viscoelastic foam) or foam-like parts can be lighter and more compliant than silicone parts. In another example, spacer fabrics comprised of lightweight materials such as fabrics may be used to position and stabilize portions of a structure across to account for weight savings. However, where some stiffness is required, the use of silicone or TPE (for example, in frame stiffeners) may be appropriate.

Forehead support arrangement

Referring to Figure 3a, the forehead support connector 24 of the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 may be connected to the upper edge area 21 of the display unit housing 22. In some forms, the connector 24 may be connected to the display unit housing 22, for example around a forehead support 25 (eg, see Figure 13a), which may be adjusted to allow the positioning and stabilizing structure to adapt to the configuration of the user's face. .

forehead support

Referring now to Figure 13a, the forehead support 25 may be connected to the upper edge region 21 of the display unit housing 22, and in some forms may be mechanically coupled to the forehead support connector 24. The support 25 may include a forehead contact portion 27 adapted to contact the user's forehead to support and stabilize the load of the display unit 12 .

The forehead support 25 may be configured to be substantially straight or may be curved. Where the connector (ie, forehead support 25) is curved, the curvature generally follows the curvature of the user's forehead. Although this is the most likely configuration, it is within the scope of the invention to use a forehead support 25 with opposite curvatures, or any combination thereof. Forehead support 25 may be made of thermoplastic material.

The forehead support 25 may be presented at an angle generally parallel to the user's forehead to provide improved comfort to the user. Advantageously, this can reduce the likelihood of pressure ulcers that may be caused by uneven presentation. In use, some user anatomy may require the forehead support 25 to be positioned higher above the forehead. In this case, the presentation angle of the support 25 can be adjusted to suit the user.

The forehead support 25 may be provided with one or more openings. These openings may serve a variety of purposes, including attachment points to the housing, attachment points to any other support surface, straps used to secure the head mounted display to the user (e.g., forehead support strap 48) Attachment points, and openings for forehead contact portions such as forehead contact pads (or forehead pads).

In some forms of forehead support 25, the aperture is designed to receive a forehead pad. The apertures may be arranged around the forehead support 25 in a manner that allows the user to adjust the position of the forehead pad.

The aperture is also designed to allow the user to securely attach the forehead pad to the forehead support 25. In some forms, the aperture is designed to allow the user to securely and reversibly attach the forehead pad to the forehead support 25. In some forms, the forehead pad is adapted to releasably engage forehead support 25.

In one form, the forehead pad is usually plate or disk-shaped. In other forms, the pad may have a concave surface corresponding to a convex portion of the user's forehead in use. Possible shapes for the base of the forehead pad include rectangular and oval.

In one form, the forehead pad may include one or more sections. In an embodiment, two base portions of the forehead pad are provided so as to lie above the user's left and right eyebrows.

forehead contact part

The forehead contact portion 27 includes a forehead contact surface 29 which, in the position of use, is located on the user's forehead area. In some forms, forehead contact 27 may be made from an elastomeric material.

Contact surface 29 may optionally include a raised surface pattern. This pattern reduces the possibility of a suction effect on the surface, thereby reducing blood draw in the area and making the contact part more comfortable. The raised pattern has the added benefit of reducing sweating. In another embodiment, the surface may be sandblasted to improve ventilation and reduce the potential for sweating.

In some forms, contact surface 29 may have cut-out portions to improve the flexibility of the contact. Another advantage of the cutout is that the contact portion 27 can better accommodate the rolling and twisting of the display unit on the user's face during use. Another advantage of cutouts in contacts is that they can reduce the effects of a single pressure point on the forehead, such as reducing discomfort.

In some forms, the contact portion includes a sheath that defines a hollow chamber filled with a viscous medium such that the walls of the sheath forming the contact surface 29 are substantially Withstand the pressure of viscous media. Hollow cavities filled with adhesive material may be used as contact parts between the user and other parts of the positioning and stabilizing structure, such as parts of the support hoop, and may also be used in the interface part.

In some forms, the forehead contact portion may comprise materials including rubber and flexible plastic. In some embodiments, the contact portion is composed of cured liquid silicone rubber or silicone with suitable hardness. These examples are illustrative only and not limiting in any way.

Forehead support connector strap

As shown in Figures 3a to 3c, the forehead support connector 24 of the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 includes a forehead support strap 48 arranged generally along or parallel to the sagittal plane of the user's head. . The strap 48 is adapted to be connected between the upper edge region 21 of the display unit housing 22 and the parietal portion 38 of the rear support hoop 16 . In one example, strap 48 may be non-adjustably connected (eg, by welding) to parietal bone 38 and strap 48 may be adjustably connected to display unit housing 22 via adjustment mechanism 50 .

The strap 48 is adjustable to allow for size control of the forehead support connector 24. As shown in Figures 3a and 3c, the end or tab portion 54 of the strap 48 passes through the forehead support hole 52 in the upper edge region 21 of the display unit 12. The straps 48 may be secured to themselves after passing through the holes 52 in the display unit 12, such as by hook and loop fasteners, which allow for fine or minute adjustment of the straps for comfort and fit (eg, tightness). In one example, forehead support strap 48 may comprise a similar material to rear support cuff 16 and/or connection strap 42, such as a fabric-foam composite (e.g., a breathable material, e.g., including an outer fabric layer and an inner Multi-layer construction of foam layers).

The forehead support connector 24 supports the weight of the display unit 12 . The length of the strap 48 between the upper edge area 21 of the display unit 12 and the parietal portion 38 of the cuff 16 can be adjusted by pulling more or less of the strap 48 through the hole 52 . Thus, the strap can be adjusted to raise or lower the position of the display unit 12 relative to the user's nose, for example, to angle or raise the display unit 12 relative to the user's face. Advantageously, this adjustment may move the display unit housing 22 away from the user's nose to reduce pressure felt on the face, nose and/or cheeks. The forehead support connector 24 holds the display unit 12 in place so that the display unit does not slide downward or sideways on the user's head.

In one example, the thickness and/or width of the forehead support strap 48 may vary along at least a portion of its length, e.g., the forehead support strap 48 may include wider and thinner sections along its length, To facilitate connection and load distribution.

In one example, the adjustment mechanism 50 is positioned so as not to contact the user's frontal bone region during use.

In an alternative example, the positioning and stabilizing structure 14 does not include the forehead support connector 24/forehead support strap 48, see for example the examples of Figures 5a to 5c.

4a to 4c illustrate a support for the head-mounted display system 110 according to a second example of the present technology. In Figures 4a to 4c, the same reference numerals designate similar or identical parts to those in Figures 3a to 3c, but 100 is added to allow, for example, the display device 112, the positioning and stabilizing structure 114, the rear support hoop 116, Temporal connector 118, rear edge area 120, display unit housing 122, forehead support connector 124, temporal arm 126, parietal portion 138, occipital portion 140, connection strap 142, forehead support strap 148, adjustment mechanism 150 , forehead support hole 152, end portion 154, and other examples. Referring to Figure 4c, the forehead support connector 124 may also include a forehead support rigidity 156. The forehead support stiffener 156 may provide further stability and support to the display unit 112 over the user's nose and cheeks, ie, reduce pressure on the user's nose and cheeks. A rigid member 156 may be connected to the upper edge region 121 and form at least a portion of the forehead support aperture 152 to receive the end or tab portion 154 of the strap 148 for positioning and stabilizing sizing of the structure 114 . As shown, forehead support straps 148 are disposed beneath forehead support rigids 156 for comfort and load distribution.

In some forms, the adjustment mechanism 150 may also include an angle adjustment mechanism for easily raising the visor from a use position to a stowed position, ie, an unused position.

In one example, the system may be constructed and arranged for redistributing one or more components from the display unit to the positioning and stabilizing structure, eg, redistributing weight from the display unit to the positioning and stabilizing structure. For example, forehead support rigids 156 and/or forehead support straps 148 may be used to at least partially support one or more non-located essential electrical components, such as batteries, hard drive storage, to remove weight from the user's head. The front of the part is shifted to a more central position, i.e., balancing the weight of the display unit. In alternative examples, one or more components of the display unit may be at least partially supported by the rear support cuff 116 and/or the temporal connector 118 to redistribute weight.

Interface structure

A user interface can be partially characterized based on the design intent of where the interface structure interfaces with the face in use. Some interface structures may be limited to engaging a region of the user's face that protrudes beyond the arc of curvature of the face-engaging surface of the interface structure. These areas may typically include the user's forehead and cheekbones. This may cause discomfort to the user at localized pressure points. Other facial areas may not be engaged by the interfacing structure at all, or may be engaged only in a negligible manner such that the translational distance may not be sufficient to increase clamping pressure. These areas may typically include the sides of the user's face, or areas adjacent to and surrounding the user's nose. To the extent that there is a mismatch between the shape of the user's face and the structure of the interface, one or both form an appropriate contact or other relationship.

In some embodiments of the present technology, the interface structure may include a single seal-forming element that in use covers a portion of each of the nasal ridge region, the frontal bone region, and the left and right infraorbital rim regions of the face. In some embodiments, the interface structure may be designed for large-scale manufacturing. For example, the interface structure can be designed to fit comfortably across a variety of facial shapes and sizes.

Referring to Figure 8, in one form of the present technology, head mounted display system 410 further includes an interface structure 411 that provides a facial interface or facial interface 413 arranged to interface with The user's faces are joined and in relative relation. In some forms, the interface structure 411 may provide cushioning functionality to enhance the overall comfort of the user. In some forms, facial interface 413 may be arranged to at least partially block light from entering display unit housing 422 in use.

The interface structure 411 extends around the display housed by the display unit housing 422. Interface structure 411 may extend around the display and define a viewing opening of the display. In an example, facial interface 413 extends around the user's eyes and may engage (eg, light-seal) the user's face, for example, along the user's nose, cheeks, and/or forehead.

A positioning and stabilizing structure 414 may be connected to the display unit housing 422 whereby the interface structure 411 of the present technology remains in an operable position on the user's face. In some alternative forms, positioning and stabilizing structure 414 may be attached to a portion of interface structure 411, thereby retaining interface structure 411 of the present technology in an operable position on the user's face.

Figure 15a shows a front cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the interface structure 611 in use, wherein the interface structure 611 is otherwise generally formed to be symmetrical on either side of the central axis A-A. The left hand side of central axis A-A shows an example of interface structure 611 as it may be positioned in use to engage the user's face generally around the periphery of the user's eyes. The right hand side of central axis A-A shows an example of a user's face beneath interface structure 611, showing the area of the face that may come into contact with interface structure 611 in use. Broadly speaking, the interface structure 611 may be formed on the parietal muscle 601, the area of the user's sphenoid bone 603, spanning the lateral cheek area 605 between the sphenoid bone 603 and the left or right zygomatic arch 607, above the zygomatic arch 607, It spans the inner cheek area 609 from the zygomatic arch 607 toward the wing ridge 619, and over the nasal ridge 617 below the bridge point of the user's nose to enclose a portion of the user's face therebetween.

The interface structure 611 provides a substantially continuous facial interface or facial engaging surface 613 around the perimeter of the user's eyes, i.e., the facial interface or facial engaging surface 613 is adapted to contact the user's face in the following areas: superior canthus, sphenoid bone Regionally, spanning the outer cheek area between the sphenoid bone and the left or right zygomatic arch, above the zygomatic arch, across the inner cheek area from the zygomatic arch toward the alar ridge, and on the nasal ridge below the point of the user's nasal bridge to apply Part of the person's face is enclosed between them. That is, the interface structure 611 provides continuous contact (eg, at least a light seal) around the entire eye of the user to prevent or at least reduce the entry of unwanted light. In this regard, the substantially continuous facial interface or facial engaging surface 613 may be contoured and/or angled along its perimeter to conform or closely follow the contours/facial contours of the patient's face.

In use, the interface structure 611 may be pressed against the user's face (eg, via positioning and stabilizing structures), and the interface structure 611 is configured and arranged such that compressive forces or loads applied to the user's face are distributed around its perimeter or spread so that the load is not concentrated on a minimum number of contact points. Additionally, the interface structure 611 includes varying flexibility around its perimeter configured to allow selective distribution of force onto the user's face. For example, the interface structure may include a first compliance at a first region and a second compliance at a second region, and the first and second regions are configured about a perimeter of the interface structure to allow for selective distribution of force. onto the user's face. This arrangement allows for higher levels of pressure distribution over areas of the user's face that are better suited to absorbing pressure, such as the canthus and sphenoid bone.

In some forms of the technology, a system is provided in which the interface structure is integrally formed with the display unit housing. In some forms of the present technology, such as the embodiments shown in Figures 15b, 16a-16c, 18, 19, and 20a-20d, a system is provided in which the interface structure is formed as a separate removable component. The removal component is configured to be integrated with and retained by the display unit housing so as to engage and be in relative relation to a user's face during use. That is, the display unit housing may provide a common frame configured and arranged to removably retain each of a plurality of interface structures (each corresponding to a different size and/or shape range and/or material type) to allow for the exchange of variants of the interface structure based on fit or user preference.

Referring to FIG. 8 , when the interface structure 411 is formed as a removable component, multiple interface structure 411 embodiments may be formed, with each embodiment configured to correspond to a different size and/or shape range. For example, head mounted display system 410 may include a form of interface structure 411 suitable for large-sized heads. This may not be suitable for users with smaller head sizes and may result in reduced comfort and performance. An interface structure 411 suitable for a small-sized head may not be suitable for a large-sized head and may also result in reduced comfort and performance for the user. Therefore, removable interface structure 411 may be advantageous because it enables the user to customize the head mounted display system 410 and select the interface structure 411 that best suits their personal facial simulation characteristics. In some further embodiments, users can measure their facial simulation features in order to custom design and form appropriate interface structures 411 . The removable interface structure 411 also allows for applications such as medical use, where the structure 411 may be disposable or may allow individual cleaning to comply with surgical procedures.

Referring to Figure 15b, when the interface structure 611 is formed as a removable component, it may be formed as a chassis 621 including a rigid or semi-rigid material configured to facilitate engagement with the display unit housing 622. For example, in some embodiments, chassis 621 may be formed from a plastic material. The chassis 621 may include one or more engagement elements 623 around its periphery, the engagement elements 623 being configured to removably mate with corresponding elements disposed on the display unit housing 622 . Suitable engagement elements may include one or more of clips, fasteners, magnets, or Velcro, so long as the number and location of engagement elements used in any given embodiment ensures that chassis 621 and The display unit housings 622 are fixed relative to each other without allowing significant sliding between them. For example, as shown in Figures 15a and 15b, the engagement elements 623 may be two clips laterally spaced apart from each other so as to be positioned on symmetrically opposite sides of the central axis A-A. Similar engagement elements 723 are shown in Figures 16a to 16c. In some further embodiments, a series of indentations may be formed in the lower in-use portion of the chassis in addition to the clips being formed in the in-use upper portion of the chassis. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, other combinations of engagement elements are also considered to be within the functional scope of the present technology. In some further embodiments, the display unit housing may include grooves that engage the outer periphery of the chassis to provide additional vertical support to the engagement elements and further reduce relative movement between the display unit housing and the interface structure .

Chassis 621 serves as the base for the remainder of interface structure 611 . Additionally, the chassis 621 may provide some rigidity and necessary structure to the interface support structure 615 of the interface structure 611 and also to the facial interface or facial engaging surface 613 through the interface support structure. Chassis 621 may be adhesively joined to support structure 615 , or in some embodiments mechanically bonded to support structure 615 , where the method used to join chassis 621 to support structure 615 depends on the composition of the materials and their specific structure. Chassis 621 generally bends laterally across the user's face. In some embodiments, the curvature may generally correspond to the curvature of the user's face. In some embodiments, such as in Figure 16b, the curvature of the chassis 721 may be relatively small, with the support structure 715 being formed to extend therefrom to bridge a distance to the user's face, and thus having a curvature laterally across the user's face. Depth of change. In other words, the support structure 715 may extend to a greater depth in an area adjacent the side of the user's face than to a smaller depth in an area adjacent the central axis A-A of the user's face. In some embodiments, the chassis 621, 721, 821 may advantageously remain the same size and shape, while the remainder of the interface structure 611, 711, 811 may vary to provide multiple modular embodiments, or to suit the user. Custom designed modular embodiments of personal facial simulation features.

In some embodiments, two or more of the face-engaging surfaces of the chassis, support structure, and interface structure may be integrally formed into a single component, the single component including varying thicknesses and finishings therebetween to provide at the chassis A desired level of stiffness or providing a desired level of cushioning at the face engaging surface. For example, in some such embodiments, the interface structure may be formed from a single silicone body. In alternative embodiments, the interface structure may be integrally formed as a single component from foam or elastomeric material.

In some embodiments, chassis 721 may be formed as a separate component from the remainder of interface structure 711, which is manufactured as a single integrally formed body (eg, see Figures 16a-16c). For example, in some embodiments, one or more regions of the facial interface or facial engaging surface 713' may be formed together around the perimeter of the interface structure 711' as inwardly extending from the support structure 715' (eg, see Figure 17A). A protruding flange-like edge (e.g., membrane or flap). Alternatively, in some embodiments, face engaging surface 713'' may be supported by a spring-like support flange 725'' that originates from support structure 715'' and is substantially hidden from face engaging surface 713'. ' below (see, for example, Figure 17b). For example, both the support flange 725 ″ and the support structure 715 ″ may be formed from silicone, with the support flange 725 ″ having a thinner material thickness than the support structure 715 ″, thereby providing a suitable interface for engaging the user's face. The portion of the interface structure 711'' provides a more compliant but elastic spring-like support. In some embodiments, face-engaging surface 713'' may be loosely overlaid on support flange 725'' such that each face-engaging surface may independently respond to compressive pressure exerted upon interaction with the user's face during use. . In some embodiments, the covered face-engaging surface 713'' may be combined with the support flange 725'', with the covered face-engaging surface overlying the support flange, whereby they effectively form a single body that is uniformly Responds to compressive pressure exerted upon interaction with the user's face during use.

Face engaging surface 713 may include one or more silicone regions, or one or more layers of fabric material or foam. One or more regions of face-engaging surface 713 may be formed with varying thicknesses and/or varying surface finishes, whereby the resulting face-engaging surface 713 when pressed against a user's face in use There can be variable compliance therealong.

Some or all of the face engaging surfaces 713 may be areas of (relatively) reduced friction. When using silicones, this can be achieved by providing a so-called frosted surface. With the reduced friction area, the sealing surface may adhere to the user's face compared to without the reduced friction area. For example, areas of reduced friction may be provided to allow the sides of the user's nose to slide freely along face engaging surface 713. Likewise, a fabric or foam material with a (relatively) reduced friction outer surface finish may be used to form part or all of face engaging surface 713 .

Some or all of face engaging surface 713 may be (relatively) high friction areas. When using silicones, this can be achieved by providing a so-called polished surface. With the high friction area, the sealing surface can adhere to the user's face better than without reducing the friction area, thereby reducing the sliding of the display unit housing 722. Likewise, a fabric or foam material with a (relatively) high friction outer surface finish may be used to form part or all of face engaging surface 713 .

In some embodiments, one or more different areas of face-engaging surface 713 may be formed with different finishes or different friction levels in order to optimize the grip and retention properties of face-engaging surface 713 while also improving user comfort. properties (e.g., one or more areas with a matte surface and one or more areas with a polished surface). In some embodiments, a combination of two or more materials may be used to form the entire face engaging surface 713, where different materials may be used in different areas. This can improve the retention force of the display unit housing 722 while also improving user comfort.

In some embodiments, the thermal wicking properties of the face-engaging surface may be improved through the use of silicone materials, thereby improving user comfort.

Referring to Figures 18 and 19, the support structure 715 may be formed to include one or more distinct regions 715', 715" that have different thicknesses and/or are further supported by the addition of reinforcing ribs 715"'. In some areas, the support structure may be thinner 715', or generally provide less resistance to compression, such as in areas adjacent the user's zygomatic arch, cheek bones, and nose. In some other areas, the support structure may be thicker 715'', or may generally be configured to provide greater resistance to compression, such as in areas adjacent the user's forehead or sphenoid bone. In some embodiments, the thickness of the support structure 715 may vary incrementally across it, rather than as distinct areas of a single thickness. In some embodiments, stiffening ribs 715'''' may be formed as wide areas of thicker material, while in other embodiments, stiffening ribs 715'''' may be formed as narrow and/or less compliant materials. A lace-like support piece.

The thinner areas of the support structure 715 may provide more compliant yet resilient padding support for the overlying face engaging surface 713 . For example, in some embodiments, the thinner areas may be formed from a silicone material having a thickness of 0.3-0.5 mm. Conversely, thicker areas of the support structure 715 may provide less compliant, more resistant, and relatively rigid structural support to the overlying face engaging surface 713 . For example, in some embodiments, the thicker region may be formed from a silicone material with a thickness of 1.5-2 mm. By forming the support structure 715 from a mixture of multiple different thicker and thinner regions or incrementally varying thicknesses, the load resistance of the support structure 715 can be optimized. Thus, in use, the overall compliance of the interface structure 711 at any given point around the perimeter of the user's face may be a result of the characteristics of the chassis 721 , the support structure 715 and the face engaging surface 713 .

In some embodiments, it may be advantageous for the interface structure 711 to balance compliance with elasticity and stiffness to disperse the resistance exerted by the docking structure 711 when compressed against the user's face during use. Additionally, it may be advantageous to provide an interface structure 711 in which the translational distance of compressive pressure applied when interacting with the user's face in use is spread over areas of the user's face that are better suited to absorbing the pressure, rather than allowing loading Locally focus on a minimum number of touch points. Accordingly, the overall compliance of the disclosed interface structure 711 can be configured to allow the face engaging surface 713 to conform to the user's face. This may advantageously reduce areas of the face-engaging surface 713 that are spaced apart from the user's face, or that do not sufficiently interact with the user's face, to assist in dispersing pressure. For example, referring to Figure 15a, a user's upper zygomatic bone 601 and sphenoid bone 603 are capable of withstanding higher pressure levels in the inferior temporal region, while areas on either side of the user's zygomatic arch 607 are capable of withstanding lower pressure levels. Stress levels. Furthermore, it may be preferable for some areas to receive only relatively light pressure or no pressure at all, such as on the zygomatic arch 607 itself or on the user's nasal ridge 617 . In areas that can only withstand light or substantially no pressure, it is advantageous for the face engaging surface 713 to be highly compliant so as to interact gently there, thereby reducing or preventing the entry of undesired light.

In some further embodiments, the interface structure 811 may include a discrete chassis 821, a support structure 815, and a face engaging surface 813 (eg, see Figures 20a-20d). For example, the face engaging surface 813' may be formed as a foam pad 829' attached directly to the upper portion 827 of the support structure 815 (eg, see Figure 21a). The upper portion 827 of the support structure 815 may be formed to extend inwardly from the perimeter of the wall of the support structure 815 as a spring-like flange that serves to support the face engaging surface 813' to prevent buckling in use.

In some alternative embodiments, face-engaging surface 813'' covers foam pad 829'' attached directly to upper portion 827 of support structure 815 (eg, see Figure 21b) such that foam pad 829'' over the face-engaging surface 813'' below. For example, the silicone or fabric material face engaging surface 813'' may be loosely supported or at least partially bonded to the foam pad 829''. In another form, the face engaging surface 813'' may extend at least partially on or beyond the foam pad 829''. The foam pad 829'' may serve as a spring-like compliant but somewhat elastic pad support that is concealed beneath the face engaging surface 813''. In such embodiments, the material contacting the user's face may be a material that is easier to clean than foam, and therefore may improve the hygiene of the interface structure 811.

Foam padding (eg, foam padding 829', foam padding 829'') may be made, for example, of any suitable material, such as one or more of the following example materials: polyethylene, PU, EVA. In some cases, the foam padding may be semi-open closed-cell foam, such as foam made of polyurethane. Semi-open cell foam pads may have limited permeability, for example, permeability characteristics in the range of about 0 to 20 liters per minute. The cross-section through the foam pad may take a substantially triangular or pear shape, with a sealing surface that follows the contours of the user's face. The foam used can define the physical properties of the entire interface structure 811. The foam may allow the interface structure 811 to adapt to major changes and successfully conform to the contours of the user's face. The compliant nature of the foam padding also provides micro-adjustment and therefore creates a comfortable interface layer when interacting with the user's skin.

In another example of the present technology, the foam pad 829'' may be secured (removably or permanently) to the support structure 815, or in some further embodiments, directly to the chassis 821. Foam pad 829'' may be configured to have varying stiffness along different areas thereof to increase user comfort.

In some forms of the present technology, the face-engaging surface of the interface structure may include a pad formed from a semi-compressible material, such as dense foam (eg, polyurethane foam or viscoelastic foam) or other similar materials , like rubber, can be formed to be generally elastically compressible while being somewhat resistant to compression. The resulting semi-rigid but elastically compressible pad may otherwise be formed to maintain a curvature with a relatively small radius, thereby providing a "one-size-fits-most" user interface pad.

In some forms of the present technology, the interface structure can be sized within a range of widths and/or shapes so that it can be customized to simulate facial features of the user. For example, referring to FIG. 22 , the interface structure 911 may include two adjustable face-engaging surfaces 913 ′, each face-engaging surface 913 ′ being located on a respective one of the left-hand and right-hand sides of the interface structure 911 . Each adjustable face engaging surface 913' may be slidably movable relative to each other and movable relative to the substantially rigid chassis 920. As the adjustable face engaging surfaces 913' are slidably moved away from each other, the overall width W of the interface structure 911 may be increased. As the adjustable face engaging surfaces 913' are slidably moved toward each other, the overall width W of the interface structure 911 may be reduced. In some embodiments, the interface structure 911 may also include two static face engaging surfaces 913'', one spanning the user's nose area and one spanning the user's forehead area. Each of the two static face-engaging surfaces 913'' may be formed to have a sufficient length such that the respective distal ends 914'' of the two static face-engaging surfaces 913'' are distal to the respective distal ends of the adjustable face-engaging surface 913'. End 914' overlaps. In this way, the adjustable and static face engaging surfaces 913', 913'' may together form a functionally continuous interface structure 911 surrounding the user's eyes. The resulting interface structure 911 may provide an improved fit to the user's personal facial simulation features, which may advantageously improve the translational distance of the interface structure 911 in increasing the clamping pressure applied to the user's face when tightening the fixed position and stabilizing structure. Ability. This may also improve the comfort of the interface structure 911 and may reduce localized pressure points. In some further embodiments, the static face engagement surfaces 913'' may be formed to have a shape and length such that they may also shield the interior of the display unit housing 922 to prevent undesired light from entering. In some further embodiments, the static face engaging surface 913'' may be formed to have a shape and length thereby creating an air gap between the static face engaging surface 913'' and the adjustable face engaging surface 913'. This may advantageously improve the breathability and comfort of the head mounted display system 910.

In some embodiments, the adjustable face engaging surface 913' can be moved relative to the chassis 920 or the display unit housing 922 by correspondingly adjusting the relative position of the eyepiece 923 within the display unit housing 922. For example, referring to Figures 23a and 23b, the relative positions of the axes D-D, E-E of the eyepiece 923 through the display unit housing 922 may be adjustable. In some embodiments, adjustment may be made by moving a slidable tab that projects outwardly from the display unit housing 922. Since the spacing between the user's eyes may be proportional to the width of the user's head, adjustment of the relative position of the eyepiece 923 may also provide appropriate adjustment of the width of the interface structure 911 . For example, the relative position of axes D-D, E-E through eyepiece 923 may be moved from a wider width XX (Fig. 23a) to a narrower width YY (Fig. 23b), thereby also changing the overall width of face-engaging surface 913' from a wider width XX (Fig. 23a) to a narrower width YY (Fig. 23b). The wide width XX' (Fig. 23a) decreases proportionally to the narrower width YY' (Fig. 23b). Likewise, the eyepiece 923 can be moved from the narrower width YY (Fig. 23b) to the wider width XX (Fig. 23a), thereby changing the overall width of the face engaging surface 913' from the narrower width YY' (Fig. 23b) to the wider width XX 'increase proportionally to the corresponding distance (Fig. 23a). In some embodiments, the face-engaging surface surrounding the nosepiece 931 may also be adjustably moved by movement of the relative positions of axes D-D, E-E through the eyepiece. For example, when the interface structure 911 is moved to a narrower configuration (eg, Figure 23b), the nosepiece 931 is adjustably narrowed and positioned into the space between the eyepieces in the display unit housing 922, or when the interface structure 911 is moved To a wider configuration (eg, Figure 23a), the nosepiece is adjustably drawn wider and removed from the space between the eyepieces in the display unit housing 922.

In some alternative embodiments, the adjustable face-engaging surface is moveable relative to the chassis via a uniquely configured adjustment mechanism, such as a slidable tab or rack-and-pinion adjustment mechanism.

The contours of the sides of the nose, including above the nasal bones, the frontal process adjacent to the maxilla, and the lateral cartilage, can be highly variable between users. Additionally, the bridge of the nose may be particularly sensitive when forces are exerted on the bridge through the interface structure. Additionally, it may be important to avoid blocking the user's air passages during use. The interface structure can thus be formed to avoid compressive pressure on the nasal area. Referring to Figures 15a and 15b, the chassis 621 includes a nose piece 631 that effectively leaves a gap in the otherwise substantially continuous face engaging surface 613. The nose bridge 631 may be formed wider and deeper than the user's nose in order to avoid one or more of the potential problems described above. In some further embodiments, nosepiece 631 may be generally saddle-shaped. The nose bridge 631 may be formed as a continuation of the remainder of the face engaging surface 613 or, in some embodiments, the nose bridge 631 may be formed as a discontinuous portion of the face engaging surface 613 . In embodiments where the nose bridge 631 is a discontinuous portion, the nose bridge 631 may be formed to be detachable. This may advantageously improve the ease of cleaning nosepiece 631. Exemplary nosepieces 731, 831 are also shown in Figures 16a-16c and 20a-20d.

For example, in some embodiments, the facial engaging surface 1013 provided to the nosepiece 1031 on the chassis 1021 may be formed from a pliable material that is capable of easily elastically bending inwardly, such as the flap 1033, to accommodate the user's nose (e.g., See Figure 24). In use, the flap 1033 may be located on the side of the bridge of the user's nose. In some embodiments, the face engaging surface 613 of the nosepiece 631 may be formed as a loose material cover that allows the user's nose to enter therein without exerting any significant resistance. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the facial engaging surface 613 of the nose bridge 631 may be formed from a portion of a highly stretchable and squeezable material, such as one or more of fabric or foam.

Typically, interface structures according to the present technology may be constructed from one or more materials, such as silicone, fabric materials, or foam. For example, in some forms of the present technology, the interface structure may include a viscoelastic polyurethane foam layer. In another example, in some forms of the present technology, the interface structure may include a liquid silicone rubber (LSR) layer overmolded to a polycarbonate or nylon chassis.

In some forms of the technology, the interface structure is composed of a biocompatible material such as silicone rubber.

In some forms of the technology, one or more portions of the interface structure may be formed to be substantially opaque. In some further forms of the technology, one or more portions of the interface structure may be tinted matte black. This helps reduce unwanted light entry through the interface structure itself.

It should be understood that the choice of materials can affect the compressibility, compliance and/or elasticity of the interface structure. For example, different foams with different densities will have correspondingly different compression properties. Additionally, different silicone materials with different thicknesses or flexibility will have different compression characteristics.

In some forms of the technology, the interface structure may be composed of a biocompatible material such as silicone rubber. In some further forms, the face-engaging surface of the interface structure may be removable. For example, the face engaging surface may be a removable disposable or washable cover.

Interface architecture has advantages in one or more forms of the technology. For example, in addition to the above advantages, human facial structure can include variations from person to person, which provides challenges when designing facial engagement surfaces that can accommodate many facial variations. These changes can include differently shaped facial structures (eg, a differently shaped nose and/or differently curved cheeks) and/or different tissue content (eg, more or less fatty tissue). These changes can result in an interface structure that works well for one person but poorly for another. Furthermore, perceived comfort can vary between people independently of facial structure.

In some forms of the technology, the interface structure may also include one or more prefrontal interface structures. The forehead interface structure may be adapted to engage with the user's forehead above the display unit housing. Prefrontal interface structures may also be integrated with positioning and stabilization structures or as separate regions of interface structures.

medical applications

The positioning and stabilizing structure and/or the interface structure may be adapted to comprise biocompatible materials, and in use various components of the positioning and stabilizing structure and the interface structure may contact, for example, the skin of a user. Designing positioning and stabilizing structures and interface structures to include such materials is intended to protect the user from potential biological risks arising from use of the structure.

Material biocompatibility

According to the ISO 10993-1 standard, biocompatible materials are considered materials that have been adequately evaluated for their biological response in relation to their safety in use. When used, evaluation considers the nature and duration of expected contact with human tissue. In some forms of this technology, materials used to position and stabilize structures and interface structures may be subjected to at least some of the following biocompatibility tests: Cytotoxicity-elution test (MeM extract): ANSI/AAMI/ISO 10993-5 Skin sensitization: ISO 10993-10 Irritation: ISO 10993-10 Genotoxicity-Bacterial mutagenicity test: ISO 10993-3 Implants: ISO 10993-6

clean

In some forms, the positioning and stabilizing structure and the interface structure are designed for use by a single user and for cleaning in the user's home, such as washing in soapy water, without the need for specialized equipment for disinfection and sterilization.

In some other forms, positioning and stabilizing structures and components of interface structures are used in laboratories, clinics, and hospitals, where a single head-mounted display system can be reused on multiple individuals or during medical procedures. In every laboratory, clinic, and hospital, head mounted display systems or their associated components may be reprocessed and exposed to processes such as thermal disinfection, chemical disinfection, and sterilization. Therefore, the design of positioning and stabilizing structures and interface structures may require disinfection and sterilization confirmation according to ISO17664.

Materials can be selected that can withstand reprocessing. For example, strong materials can be used to position and stabilize structures to withstand exposure to high-level disinfection solutions and agitation with brushes. Additionally, some components of the positioning and stabilizing structure are detachable and can be disconnected during use to increase reprocessing efficiency.

In another example, the contact portion of the forehead support connector 24 will come into contact with the user's head during use and therefore may become dirty. The contact portion may be designed to be removable from the forehead support connector 24 to provide the ability to remove it for cleaning and/or replacement. It may be desirable to clean the contacts without getting the positioning and stabilizing structures wet. This can be facilitated by allowing these components to be disconnected for such purposes. In another example, the rear support cuff may come into contact with the user's hair or skin when worn. Therefore, the rear support hoop is preferably made of an easily cleanable material and is further designed to be removed from the positioning and stabilizing structure for independent cleaning.

Material

The surfaces of the interface structures or positioning and stabilizing structures that engage and interact with the user's head may be formed with shapes and materials that help reduce point loading and pressure-induced markings and/or hot spots on the user's head. characteristic. Referring to Figure 30, in some forms, the resulting interface surface 1110 of the engagement structure 1108 can distribute the pressure load P over a larger surface area of the user's head 1120. Accordingly, the shape and material properties of the engagement structure 1108, and in particular the shape and material properties of the interface 1110, may provide improved comfort to the user.

Similarly, in some forms, the geometry of the edges of the interface surface may be shaped to follow a contour that, in conjunction with the overall shape and material properties of the interface surface, helps match the contours of the user's head and thus distribute pressure loads more efficiently , thereby improving user comfort. For example, the engagement surface 1110 may have curved contoured edges 1112 that help spread contact loads over a larger surface area, thereby reducing point loads that create pressure-induced marks and/or hot spots on the user's head. possibilities (e.g., Figures 30 and 31).

Typically, an increase in surface area can be associated with a decrease in pressure and discomfort experienced by the user, since the force can be distributed over a larger contact area. However, the total surface area of the interface surface needs to be optimized relative to the overall size, volume, and weight of the interface structure, which may adversely affect the user's performance when wearing the head-mounted display. For example, if the engagement surface is too large, the user may experience claustrophobia due to the added weight or experience muscle pain in the neck and shoulders.

Additionally, in some forms it is important that the interface surface provides comfort to the user based on the general look and feel of the outer surface when touched or worn during use. For example, user comfort can be advantageously improved by reducing sharp edges, or even sharp edges that do not contact the user. In another example, it may be advantageous to form the interface outer surface from a material that is non-abrasive, a material that is cool or capable of wicking moisture (eg, sweat), or a material that does not irritate the user's skin, and/or a breathable material.

Therefore, the material properties of the interface structure or the interface surface of the positioning and stabilizing structure can affect the overall comfort of the user.

For example, in some forms it may be advantageous to have an engagement structure 1108, such as a strap with positioning and stabilizing structures, that can flexibly twist T to conform to the contours of the user's head (eg, Figure 31). The compliance and ability to conform the interface surface to the user's head increases the total contact surface area, thereby aiding in the distribution of tension over a larger contact area and reducing uncomfortable pressure points.

In other forms, the engagement structure may include a flexible material, such as a foam or fabric material, where, unlike thermoplastic materials, the interface surface may more easily conform to and form around the curves and contours of the user's head. For example, such material properties may be advantageous for positioning and stabilizing portions of the structure 1114 that intersect around the upper portion of the user's head 1122 (eg, FIG. 32 ). Portion 1116 of positioning and stabilizing structure 1114 , when not in use, will not flex sufficiently to engage the upper portion of the user's head 1122 and therefore can flex elastically without damaging positioning and stabilizing structure 1114 to conform and help deflect pressure. Pressure load on the user's head.

In some forms, the engagement structure may be elastic such that the force distribution may be more evenly distributed across the interface surface. For example, referring to Figure 33, when the straps of positioning and stabilizing structure 1134 are stretched apart under load L, the strain forces may be distributed substantially evenly over the length of the straps. Therefore, the elasticity of the strap has a relatively flat force (y-axis)-displacement (x-axis) curve, thereby illustrating that the force does not change much when the joint structure is extended (or displaced).

In some other forms, discrete regions, sections, or portions of the interface structure or positioning and stabilizing structure may be formed to exhibit increased flexibility when compared to the remainder of the positioning and stabilizing structure. For example, referring to Figure 34, a region 1144 of the interface structure 1142 located near a more sensitive area of the user's face, such as the bridge of the nose, or near a facial protrusion 1140, such as the cheek bones, may include viscoelastic foam, or may allow Similar materials that increase local compliance.

In some forms, foam used in interface structures or positioning and stabilizing structures may be formed to have a density in the ^range of approximately 55 kg/m. In other forms, the density may be in the range of approximately 50-55kg/ ^m . In other forms, the foam density may be in the ^range of approximately 55-60kg/m. In other forms, the foam density may range from ^{approximately} 45-65 kg/m. Density can also be higher or lower depending on the precise requirements of the foam. For example, the foam density can be varied in the interface structure or the positioning and stabilizing structure to have localized areas of greater compliance or localized areas of greater stiffness.

Anthropometric data model

The geometry of the head-mounted display system can be designed with reference to anthropometric data models. Anthropometric data models can be developed from a collection of three-dimensional head shapes. The anthropometric profile model can be used to represent sizing and clustering based on changes in head shape as shown in Figures 25a to 25b (eg, a target head geometry with the first three components of change is shown in Figure 25b, Size adjustment based on the nominal facial area as shown in Figures 26a to 26b (e.g. shape changes in the eye/nose area with the first four components of variation are shown in the example of Figure 26b), and based on Figure 26b Size modulation of anthropometric landmarks shown in Figures 27a to 27b (e.g., correlations between 2D landmarks, such as the relationship between eye position and facial width at the orbits, Figure 27b).

For example, an anthropometric data model can be used to determine dimensional requirements for interface structures. These requirements can account for changes in head shape and changes in facial features based on anthropometric landmarks. Additionally, relationships between facial landmarks can be derived from the data; for example, the relationship between eye position and facial width. Advantageously, the interface structure can be structured to accommodate these changes.

In another example, an anthropometric data model can be used in conjunction with a software application (such as a mobile phone application) to compare 3D scans of a user's head and identify their head size. In this example, users can operate their cell phone's camera to produce a three-dimensional scan. Software applications can be used to inform users of head dimensions compared to anthropometric data models and recommend appropriate dimensions, such as those of positioning and stabilizing structures, to provide the best fit. For example, a medium size can be suggested from a given number of size options (e.g., small, medium, or large). Alternatively, custom-sized positioning and stabilizing structures can be created from a 3D scan of the user based on their personal facial landmarks.

The head mounted display systems described above provide alternative examples of the present technology, constructed and arranged to enhance comfort, fit, usability, system architecture, use in medical environments, and manufacturability.

Head mounted display systems according to examples of the present technology provide enhanced comfort while minimizing facial marks and pain with long-term use. For example, comfort can be achieved by providing a universal load distribution by avoiding or minimizing loads on areas prone to discomfort and redistributing loads to areas that can comfortably carry the load (e.g., avoiding or minimizing the bridge and sides of the nose). on the head and apply or redistribute the load to the top and/or rear of the head) to optimize the load on all contact surfaces. In addition, comfort can be achieved by providing local load distribution, where the load is evenly distributed through design and material selection in facial areas where contact is unavoidable, for example, contact points around the eyes can Includes compliant material that evenly distributes load and avoids sore spots/facial markings. Additionally, comfort can be achieved by minimizing weight, as less weight in the overall system results in less tension in positioning and keeping the system in the correct configuration. In this regard, head-mounted display systems according to examples of the present technology provide the simplest design (eg, low distribution) to achieve fitting range, comfort, and correct configuration, such as optimization of components to Minimizing the size and number of components enables functionality and use of strong and lightweight materials.

Head mounted display systems according to examples of the present technology provide enhanced fit range or universal fit without sacrificing comfort, usability, and cost. For example, the range of fit can be achieved by providing a choice of geometries and materials as well as adjustability of the adjustment mechanism. The components that position and stabilize the structure are designed, and materials can be selected to provide a desired force-to-displacement ratio, so that, for example, a strap can stretch to a desired length under a predetermined force. The adjustment mechanism provides simplicity as the positioning and stabilizing structure and the associated strap size can be manually adjusted and set, and component parts can be minimized while maximizing ease of use, e.g. one-handed adjustment of straps and Alternative use of magnetic clips for attachment (e.g. easy removal without losing strap setup). Furthermore, the adjustment mechanism provides minimal size and weight, which reduces the volume of the adjustment mechanism with optimal materials and minimal components. Furthermore, an enhanced fit range may be achieved through anthropometry, wherein the adjustment range may be designed to fit the optimal anthropometric range for the desired market.

Head mounted display systems according to examples of the present technology provide enhanced usability through a low touch simple setup solution and a low dexterity threshold solution. For example, low-touch settings can be achieved through self-adjusting solutions that include stretchable materials or simple mechanical actuation, where only a few minor adjustments are required to achieve a correct fit. Additionally, the system may include adjustment and locking solutions to facilitate usability (i.e., set and forget), such as mechanisms to guide adjustment (e.g., magnets) and locking mechanisms to set the adjustment (e.g., clips). Additionally, the system provides ease of use, allowing it to be adjusted when worn by users with low dexterity and/or minimal vision.

Head-mounted display systems according to examples of the present technology provide an enhanced system architecture that optimizes component locations to minimize cost while maximizing comfort, fit range, and usability. For example, the system may provide enhanced weight distribution where electrical and/or mechanical components are positioned in ideal positions from a comfort standpoint. Additionally, the system may include modularity such that components may be selected or upgraded based on user preferences, for example, electrical components, facial contact pads, bands, and/or earplugs may be selected based on preferences.

Head mounted display systems according to examples of the present technology enhance use in medical environments. For example, the system may be biocompatible and/or cleanable, with the materials selected being cleanable for reuse in a medical setting and/or passing biocompatibility requirements.

Head mounted display systems according to examples of the present technology enhance manufacturability by providing a mass-producible solution at low cost while maintaining high quality and functionality.

As noted above, the present technology may find particular application in head mounted display systems in the form of virtual reality (VR) display devices and/or augmented reality (AR) display devices.

As shown in FIG. 35 , an exemplary VR display device 3000 according to one aspect of the present technology includes the following functional aspects: a display unit 3100 , a display housing 3200 , and a positioning and stabilizing structure 3500 . In some forms, functional aspects may be provided by one or more physical components. In some forms, one or more physical components may provide one or more functional aspects. In use, the display unit 3100 is arranged near and in front of the user's eyes to allow the user to view the display unit 3100.

In some examples, display unit 3100 may include display screen 3104, display housing 3200, interface structure 3300, and/or optical lens 3400. These components may be integrally formed in a single display unit 3100, or they may be separable and selectively connected by a user to form display unit 3100. In addition, the display screen 3104, the display housing 3200, the interface structure 3300, and/or the optical lens 3400 may be included in the display device 3000, but may not be part of the display unit 3100.

In an example, the display screen or display 3104 may be configured to selectively output a computer-generated image visible to a user in an operating position. In some forms, display screen 3104 is an electronic display. The display screen 3104 may be a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a light emitting diode (LED) screen.

In some forms, display housing 3200 provides a support structure for display screen 3104 so as to maintain the position of at least some components of display screen 3104 relative to each other and may additionally protect display screen 3104 and/or the display unit. Other parts of 3100. Display housing 3200 may be constructed of a material suitable for providing impact protection to display screen 3104 . Display housing 3200 may also contact the user's face and may be constructed of biocompatible materials adapted to limit irritation to the user.

In some forms, interface structure 3300 may extend at least partially around display housing 3200 and may form a viewing opening. The viewing opening may at least partially receive the user's face during use. Specifically, the user's eyes may be received within the viewing opening formed by the interface structure 3300.

In some forms, display device 3000 may include a light shield that may be constructed of an opaque material and may block ambient light from reaching the user's eyes. The light shield may be part of the interface structure 3300 or may be a separate component.

In some examples, at least one lens 3400 may be disposed between the user's eyes and the display screen 3104. The user can observe the image provided by the display screen 3104 through the lens 3400. At least one lens 3400 can help isolate the display screen 3104 from the user's face to limit eye fatigue. At least one lens 3400 may also facilitate better viewing of images displayed by display screen 3104. In some forms, the at least one lens includes a first lens configured to align with the user's left eye in the operating position and a first lens configured to align with the user's right eye in the operating position. second lens. In some forms, lens 3400 is a Fresnel lens. In some forms, the display includes a binocular display segmented into a first segment aligned with a first lens and a second segment aligned with a second lens.

In one example, display device 3000 includes a control system 7000 (see Figure 36) that helps control output received by a user. Specifically, control system 7000 may control visual output from display screen 3104.

In some forms, control system 7000 may include sensors 7002 that monitor various parameters or values (eg, in the physical environment) and communicate the measured parameters to processor 7004 . The output received by the user may be affected by the measured parameters. For example, the processor 7004 is configured to alter a computer-generated image output by the display based on the measurements.

In some forms, sensors 7002 may include: an orientation sensor that may sense the orientation of the user's body; at least one camera that may be positioned to observe the user's physical environment (e.g., to determine orientation); and/or eye sensors that can track the movement of the user's eyes to determine which direction at least one of the user's eyes is looking.

In some forms, processor 7004 may include a computer or smartphone.

In some forms, control system 7000 is integrated into display unit 3100. In other forms, the control system 7000 is housed in a control system support 7060 that is separate from the head mounted display unit 3100 but connected (eg, electrically connected) to the display unit.

Some forms of display device 3000 include a controller 3600 that can be interfaced by a user to provide user input to the virtual environment and/or to control the operation of display device 3000. The controller 3600 may be connected to the display unit 3100 and provide the user with the ability to interact with virtual objects output from the display unit 3100 to the user. For example, controller 3600 has at least one button 3602 selectively engageable by a user's finger (see Figure 35), controller 3600 is in communication with processor 7004 and is configured to send a signal to the processor when at least one button 3602 is engaged. , the processor is configured to alter the computer-generated image output by the display 3104 based on the signal.

37 illustrates an exemplary AR display device 3000 according to an aspect of the present technology, including the following functional aspects: a display unit 3100, a display housing 3200, and a positioning stabilizing structure 3500.

In some examples, display unit 3100 may include a display screen or display 3104 supported by display housing 3200 . Display 3104 is configured to selectively output one or more computer-generated images viewable by a user. Display screen 3104 may include at least one optical lens 3400 constructed of a transparent or translucent material configured to allow a user to observe their physical environment while viewing computer-generated images. For example, display screen 3104 may be glass so that a user can see through display screen 3104. This may be particularly beneficial in AR applications, allowing the user to continue to see the physical environment.

In some forms, the at least one lens 3400 includes a first lens configured to align with the user's left eye in the operating position and a first lens configured to align with the user's right eye in the operating position. For an accurate second lens, see Figure 37 for example.

In one example, AR display device 3000 includes a control system 7000 that helps control output received by a user (see Figure 36). Specifically, control system 7000 may control visual output from display screen 3104. In some forms, control system 7000 may include sensors 7002 that monitor various parameters or values (eg, in the physical environment) and communicate the measured parameters to processor 7004 . The output received by the user may be affected by the measured parameters. For example, the processor 7004 is configured to alter a computer-generated image output by the display based on the measurements.

Glossary

For the purposes of this technical disclosure, one or more of the following definitions may apply in certain forms of the technology. In other forms of the technology, alternative definitions may apply.

General rules Leakage: The word leakage will be considered undesired exposure to light. In one example, leakage may occur due to an incomplete seal between the display unit and the user's face.

Material

Closed-cell foam: Foam that contains completely enclosed cells, that is, closed cells.

Elastomer: A polymer made from polyurethane.

Elastomer: A polymer that exhibits elastic properties. For example, silicone elastomers.

Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA): A copolymer of ethylene and vinyl acetate.

Foam: Any material, such as polyurethane foam or viscoelastic foam, in which air bubbles are introduced during the manufacturing process to create a lightweight honeycomb shape.

Neoprene: A synthetic rubber produced by the polymerization of chloroprene. Neoprene is used in commercial products: Breath-O-Prene.

Nylon: A synthetic polyamide that is elastic and can be used, for example, to form fibers/filaments for textiles.

Open Cell Foam: Foam that contains cells, i.e. air bubbles that are not completely enclosed, i.e. open cells.

Polycarbonate: A transparent thermoplastic polymer typical of bisphenol A carbonate.

Polyethylene: A thermoplastic that is resistant to chemicals and moisture.

Polyurethane (PU): A plastic material prepared by copolymerizing isocyanate and polyol, which can take the form of foam (polyurethane foam) and rubber (polyurethane rubber), for example.

Semi-Open Cell Foam: A foam that contains a combination of closed and open (encapsulated) cells.

Silicone or silicone elastomer: synthetic rubber. In this specification, references to silicone resins are liquid silicone rubber (LSR) or compression molded silicone rubber (CMSR). One form of commercially available LSR (included in the range of products sold under this trademark) is SILASTIC, manufactured by Dow Corning. Another manufacturer of LSR is Wacker. Unless otherwise specified to the contrary, exemplary forms of LSR have a Shore A (or Type A) dent hardness in the range of about 35 to about 45 as measured using ASTM D2240.

Spacer Fabric: A composite structure consisting of two outer fabric substrates joined together and separated by an intermediate layer of monofilament.

Spandex: An elastic fiber or fabric consisting primarily of polyurethane. Spandex used in merchandise: Lycra.

Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE): Typically a low-modulus, flexible material that stretches at room temperature and has the ability to return to its approximate original length when stress is released. Trade products using TPE include: Hytrel®, Dynaflex™, Medalist® MD-1 15.

Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU): Thermoplastic elastomer with high durability and flexibility.

Mechanical properties

Resilience: The ability of a material to absorb energy when elastically deformed and release energy when unloaded.

Elasticity: Will release essentially all energy when unloading. Includes, for example, certain siloxanes and thermoplastic elastomers.

Hardness: The ability of a material itself to resist deformation (e.g., described by Young's modulus or the dent hardness scale measured on standardized sample dimensions). "Soft" materials can include silicone or thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), and can deform easily under finger pressure, for example. "Hard" materials may include polycarbonate, polypropylene, steel, or aluminum, and may not easily deform under finger pressure, for example.

Stiffness (or stiffness) of a structure or component: The ability of a structure or component to resist deformation in response to an applied load. Loads can be forces or moments, such as compression, tension, bending, or torsion. Structures or components can provide different resistance in different directions.

Soft structure or component: A structure or component that will change shape (e.g., bend) when allowed to support its own weight for a relatively short period of time, such as 1 second.

Rigid structure or component: A structure or component that does not substantially change shape when subjected to loads normally encountered in use. As an example, an I-beam may include a different bending stiffness (resistance to bending loads) in a first direction compared to a second orthogonal direction. In another example, a structure or component may be flexible in a first direction and rigid in a second direction.

user interface

Frame: A frame will be considered to mean a display housing unit that is loaded in tension between two or more points of connection to the hoop.

Interpupillary distance: The distance between the centers of the pupils of the eyes.

Hoop: A hoop will be taken to mean that part of a structure designed for positioning and stabilization on the head. For example, the hoop may include a collection of one or more struts, straps, and reinforcements configured to position and hold the user interface in place on the user's face to Hold the display unit in the operating position in front of the user's face. The hoop may be formed from soft, flexible, elastic materials such as foam and fabric/fabric laminate composites.

Membrane: Membrane will be taken to mean a typically thin element which is preferably not substantially resistant to bending, but which is resistant to stretching.

Seal: Can be a noun form referring to a structure (seal), or a verb form referring to the effect (seal). Two elements may be constructed and/or arranged to 'seal' or effect a 'seal' therebetween without the need for a separate 'sealing' element itself.

Shell: Shell will be taken to mean a curved and relatively thin structure with bendable, stretchable and compressible stiffness. For example, the curved structural wall of the mask may be a shell. In some forms, the shell may be multi-faceted.

Reinforcement: Reinforcement will be taken to mean a structural component designed to increase the bending resistance of another component in at least one direction.

Brace: A brace will be considered a structural component designed to increase the compression resistance of another component in at least one direction.

Spindle: (noun) A subcomponent of a component configured to rotate about a common axis, preferably independently, preferably at low torque. In one form, the axis of rotation may be configured to rotate through an angle of at least 360 degrees. In another form, the axis of rotation may be configured to rotate through an angle of less than 360 degrees.

frenulum (noun: a structure used to resist tension.

shape of structure

Products according to the present technology may include one or more three-dimensional mechanical structures, such as seal-forming portions of a display unit. Three-dimensional structures can be bonded through two-dimensional surfaces. These surfaces may be distinguished using markers to describe associated surface orientation, location, function, or some other characteristic. For example, the structure may include one or more of a front surface, a back surface, an inner surface, and an outer surface. In another example, the seal-forming structure may include a face-contacting (eg, exterior) surface and a separate non-face-contacting (eg, underside or interior) surface. In another example, a structure may include a first surface and a second surface.

To help describe the shape of three-dimensional structures and surfaces, first consider a cross-section through a point P on the surface of the structure, see Figures 2a to 2e, which show examples of cross-sections at point P on the surface and the resulting planar curves . The outward normal vector at point P points away from the surface. In some examples, we describe the surface from the viewpoint of an imaginary little person standing on the surface.

One-dimensional curvature

The curvature of a plane curve at P can be described as having a sign (e.g., positive, negative) and a magnitude (e.g., the reciprocal of the radius of a circle that only touches the curve at P).

Positive Curvature: If the curve at P turns away from the normal, the curvature at that point will be taken to be positive (if the imaginary little person left P, they would have to walk uphill). See Figure 2a (relatively large positive curvature compared to Figure 2b) and Figure 2b (relatively small positive curvature compared to Figure 2a). Such curves are often called concave.

Zero curvature: If the curve at P is a straight line, the curvature will be taken to be zero (if the imaginary little person leaves P, then they can walk horizontally, not up or down). See Figure 2c.

Negative curvature: If the curve at P turns away from the outward normal, then the curvature in that direction at that point will take on negative (if the imaginary little people left the point p, they would have to go downhill ). See Figure 2d (relatively small negative curvature compared to Figure 2e) and Figure 2e (relatively large negative curvature compared to Figure 2d). Such curves are often called convex shapes.

2D surface curvature

A description of the shape at a given point on a two-dimensional surface according to the present technology may include multiple normal cross-sections. Multiple cross-sections can cut a surface in a plane including the outward normal (the "normal plane"), and each cross-section can be taken in a different direction. Each cross section produces a planar curve with corresponding curvature. Different curvatures at this point can have the same sign or different signs. Each curvature at that point has a quantity, such as a relatively small quantity. The planar curves in Figures 2a to 2e may be examples of such multiple cross-sections at specific points.

Principal Curvature and Principal Direction: The direction of the normal plane in which the curvature of the curve takes its maximum and minimum values is called the principal direction. In the example of Figures 2a to 2e, the maximum curvature appears in Figure 2a and the minimum curvature appears in Figure 2e, so Figures 2a and 2e are sections in the main direction. The principal curvature at P is the curvature in the principal direction.

Region of a surface: A connected set of points on a surface. The set of points in a region can have similar characteristics, such as curvature or sign.

Saddle Region: A region where at each point the principal curvatures have opposite signs, i.e. one sign is positive and the other negative (depending on the direction in which the imagined individual is turned, they can walk up or down). The saddle region is shown for example in Figure 2h.

Dome Region: A region where the principal curvatures have the same sign at every point, such as two positive ("concave dome") or two negative ("convex dome"). For example, a dome area is shown in Figure 2g.

Surface Edge: The boundary or limit of a surface or area. For example, an edge on a surface is shown in Figure 2g.

Path: In some forms of this technology, 'path' will be taken to mean a path in a mathematical-topological sense, such as a continuous spatial curve on a surface from f(0) to f(1). In some forms of the technology, a 'path' may be described as a route or journey that includes, for example, a set of points on a surface. (The imaginary person's path is where they walk on the surface and is similar to a garden path). For example, the path on the surface is shown in Figure 2g.

space curve

Space Curves: Unlike planar curves, space curves do not have to lie in any particular plane. A space curve can be thought of as a one-dimensional segment of a three-dimensional space. An imaginary person walking on one strand of the DNA helix follows the curve of space. A typical human left ear includes a spiral, which is a left-handed spiral, see Figure 2i. A typical human right ear includes a spiral, which is a right-handed spiral, see Figure 2k. Figure 2j shows a right-handed helix. The edges of a structure, such as those of a membrane, can follow spatial curves. In general, a space curve can be described by the curvature and twist at each point on the space curve. Torque is a measurement of how a curve turns out of a flat surface. Torque has a sign and magnitude. The twist at a point on the space curve can be characterized by reference to the tangent vector, normal vector and double normal vector at that point.

Binormal unit vector: The binormal unit vector is perpendicular to both the tangent vector and the principal normal vector. Its direction can be determined by the right-hand rule (see for example Figure 2m) or alternatively by the left-hand rule (Figure 2l).

Oblique plane: The plane containing the unit tangent vector and the unit principal normal vector. See Figures 2l and 2m.

Twist of the space curve: The twist at a point of the space curve is the magnitude of the rate of change of the binormal unit vector at that point. It measures the degree to which a curve deviates from a close plane. A space curve lying in a plane has zero twist. A space curve that deviates from the oblique plane by a relatively small amount will have a relatively small amount of twist (e.g., a gently sloping spiral path). Space curves that deviate from the oblique plane by a relatively large amount will have a relatively large amount of twist (e.g., a steeply sloping spiral path). Referring to Figure 2j, since T2>T1, the amount of twist near the top coil of the spiral of Figure 2j is greater than the amount of twist of the bottom coil of the spiral of Figure 2j.

Referring to the right-hand rule of Figure 2m, a space curve toward the right-hand binormal direction can be considered to have a right-handed positive twist (e.g., the right-handed spiral shown in Figure 2j). A space curve that turns away from the right-handed binormal direction may be said to have a right-handed negative twist (e.g., a left-handed spiral).

Likewise, referring to the left-hand rule (see Figure 2l), a space curve toward the left-hand binormal direction can be considered to have a left-handed positive twist (e.g., a left-handed spiral). So the left hand plus is equal to the right hand minus.

hole

The surface may have one-dimensional holes, such as holes defined by planar curves or by spatial curves. Thin structures (eg, membranes) with pores can be described as having one-dimensional pores. See, for example, the one-dimensional hole in the surface bounded by a planar curve of the structure shown in Figure 2n.

The structure may have two-dimensional pores, such as pores defined by a surface. For example, a pneumatic tire has a two-dimensional hole defined by the inner surface of the tire. See the two-dimensional pores bounded by the surfaces shown in the structures shown in Figures 2o and 2p.

Other remarks

Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise and a numerical range is provided, it is understood that every intervening value between the upper and lower limits of the range, to one-tenth of the unit of the lower limit, and any other value within the stated range The recited values or intervening values are broadly included within the technology. The upper and lower limits of these intermediate ranges may independently be included within the intermediate range and also within the scope of the present technology, subject to any expressly excluded limits within the stated range. Where the range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included in the technology.

Furthermore, to the extent that a value or values described herein are implemented as part of this technology, it will be understood that such values may be approximate unless otherwise stated and that such values may be practical Any appropriate number of significant digits may be used to the extent that technical implementation permits or requires it.

Unless otherwise defined, 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 invention 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 exemplary methods and materials are described herein.

When a specific material is identified for use in constructing a component, obvious alternative materials with similar properties may be used as substitutes. Furthermore, unless specified to the contrary, any and all components described herein are understood to be capable of being manufactured and, thus, 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 plural equivalents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

All publications mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety to disclose and describe the methods and/or materials that are the subject of those publications. The publications discussed herein are provided solely for their disclosure as of the filing date of this application. This document should not be construed as an admission that the technology is not entitled to antedate such disclosure by virtue of prior invention. In addition, the publication date provided may differ from the actual publication date, which may require independent confirmation.

The terms "comprises" and "comprising" shall be understood as referring to elements, parts or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the marked elements, parts or steps may be present or utilized, or combination with other elements, parts or steps not marked.

The subject headings used in the detailed description are for convenience of reference by the reader only and should not be used to limit the subject matter that may be found throughout the disclosure or claims. Topic headings should not be used to explain the scope of the request or the limitations of the request.

Although the technology herein has been described with reference to specific examples/forms/embodiments, it is to be understood that these examples/forms/embodiments merely illustrate the principles and applications of the technology. In some cases, terminology and symbols may imply specific details that are not required to practice the technique. For example, although the terms "first" and "second" may be used, unless otherwise stated, they are not intended to represent any order but may be used to distinguish between different elements. Furthermore, although process steps in a method may be described or illustrated in a sequential order, such order is not required. Those skilled in the art will recognize that such order may be modified and/or aspects thereof may be performed concurrently or even simultaneously.

Accordingly, it is to be understood that many modifications may be made to the illustrative examples/forms/embodiments and other arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the technology.

10:Head mounted display system 11:User interface structure 12:Display unit 14: Positioning and stabilizing structures 15: Outer layer 16:Rear support hoop 17:Inner layer 18: Temporal connector 20:Rear edge area 21: Upper edge area 22:Display unit housing 24: Forehead support connector 25: Forehead support 26: Temporal arm 27: Forehead contact part 28:Front end 29: Forehead contact surface 30:Backend 32: Rigid parts 34: Elastic parts 35: Face contact surface 36: tab 38: Parietal bone 40: Occipital bone 42:Connect straps 44:eyelet 48:Forehead support strap 50:Adjusting mechanism 52: Forehead support hole 54: slice part 110:Head mounted display unit system 112:Display unit 114: Positioning and stabilizing structures 116:Rear support hoop 118: Temporal connector 120:Rear edge area 121: Upper edge area 122:Display unit housing 124: Forehead Support Connector 126: Temporal arm 138:Parietal bone 140: Occipital bone 142:Connect straps 148: Forehead support strap 150:Adjusting mechanism 152: Forehead support hole 154: slice part 156: Forehead support rigid piece 210:Head mounted display system 212:Display unit 214: Positioning and stabilizing structures 216:Rear support hoop 218: Temporal connector 220:Rear edge area 222:Display unit housing 238:Parietal bone 240: Occipital bone 242:Connect straps 310:Head mounted display system 312: Display unit 314: Positioning and Stabilizing Structures 316:Rear support hoop 318: Temporal connector 322: Display unit housing 324: Forehead Support Connector 326: Temporal arm 332: Rigid parts 338:Parietal bone 340: Occipital bone 348:Forehead support strap 358: Extended rigid parts 360: Offset extended rigid piece 362: Intermediate adjustment mechanism 363:hole 364: Temporal adjustment mechanism 368:Backend 410:Head mounted display system 411:Interface structure 413: Facial interface 414: Positioning and Stabilizing Structures 422: Display unit housing 510:Head mounted display system 512: Display unit 514: Positioning and Stabilizing Structures 516:Support hoop 518: Connector 520:Rear edge area 522: Display unit housing 524: Forehead Support Connector 526:arm 528:Front end 530:Backend 538: Front part 539:Plane 540: Occipital bone 541: Pivot point 542:Connect straps 543:Slot 545:Displacement 549:Plane 556: Forehead support rigid piece 562:Adjusting mechanism 563:hole 564:Coupler 566: Guide 568:Backend 603: Sphenoid bone 607:Zygomatic arch 610:Head mounted display system 611:Interface structure 612: Display unit 613: Facial joint surface 614: Positioning and Stabilizing Structures 615:Interface support structure 617: Ridge 621:Chassis 622: Display unit housing 623:Joining elements 631: Nose bridge 638: Front part 640: Occipital bone 662: Central support structure 711:Interface structure 713:Facial joint surface 715:Support structure 721:Chassis 722: Display unit housing 723:Joining elements 725: Support flange 731: Nose bridge 811:Interface structure 813:Facial joint surface 815:Support structure 821:Chassis 827: Upper part 831: Nose bridge 910:Head mounted display system 911:Interface structure 920:Chassis 922: Display unit housing 923:Eyepiece 931: Nose bridge 1013:Facial joint surface 1021:Chassis 1031: Nose bridge 1033: Valve disc 711':Interface structure 713': Facial joint surface 715' :Support structure 813': Facial joint surface 829' : Foam padding 913' : Facial joint surface 711'':Interface structure 713'': Facial joint surface 715'':Support structure 813'': Facial joint surface 829'': Foam padding 913'': Facial joint surface 1108:joint structure 1110:Interface structure 1112: Curved profile edge 1114: Positioning and Stabilizing Structures 1116:Part 1120: User head 1122:User head 1134: Positioning and stabilizing structures 1140:Facial projection 1142:Interface structure 1144:Area 3000:Display device 3100:Display unit 3104:Display screen 3200:Display housing 3400: Optical lens 3500: Positioning and Stabilizing Structures 3600:Controller 3602:Button 7000:Control system 7002: Sensor 7004: Processor

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: facial anatomy Figure 1a is an anterior view of the face with several surface anatomical features identified, including the medial canthus, brow and parietal muscles, upper lip, vermilion, nasal alar, nasolabial folds, and corners of the mouth. Also shown are the left and right sides of the sagittal plane and the superior, inferior, radially inward and radially outward directions. Figure 1b is a side view of the head with several features of the identified surface anatomy, including the temporomandibular joint, glabella, nasal bridge point, nasal bridge, zygomatic arch/bone, supraauricular attachment point, external occipital protuberance, infraauricular attachment point, nasal prominence, inferior septal point, alar ridge point and temporalis muscle. Up and down and front and rear directions are also marked. Figure 1c is another side view of the head. The approximate location of the Frankfurt water level is indicated. The coronal plane is also indicated. Figure 1d shows a side view of the skull with the outline of the head surface and several muscles. The following bones are shown: frontal, sphenoid, nasal, zygomatic, maxillary, mandibular, parietal, temporal and occipital. The following muscles are shown: masseter minor and trapezius. Figure 1e shows an anterolateral view of the nose. The following bones are shown: frontal bone, supraorbital foramen, nose, septal cartilage, lateral cartilage, orbit, and infraorbital foramen. shape of structure Figure 2a shows a schematic diagram of a cross-section through the structure at point P. The outward normal at point P is indicated. The curvature at this point has a positive sign and a relatively large magnitude when compared to the magnitude of the curvature shown in Figure 2b. Figure 2b shows a schematic diagram of a cross-section through the structure at one point. Indicates the outward normal at the point. The curvature at the points has a positive sign and a relatively small magnitude when compared to the magnitude of the curvature shown in Figure 2a. Figure 2c shows a schematic diagram of a cross-section through the structure at one point. Indicates the outward normal at the point. The curvature at a point has zero value. Figure 2d shows a schematic diagram of a cross-section through the structure at one point. Indicates the outward normal at the point. The curvature at the point has a negative sign and has a relatively small magnitude when compared to the magnitude of the curvature shown in Figure 2e. Figure 2e shows a schematic diagram of a cross-section through the structure at one point. Indicates the outward normal at the point. The curvature at the point has a negative sign and has a relatively large magnitude when compared to the magnitude of the curvature shown in Figure 2d. Figures 2f, 2g and 2h illustrate seal forming structures. The outer surface of the pad is indicated in Figure 2f. The edges of this surface are indicated in Figure 2g. The path on the surface between points A and B is indicated in Figure 2g. The straight-line distance between A and B is indicated in Figure 2g. Two saddle regions and one dome region are indicated in Figure 2h. Figure 2i shows the left ear, including the left ear helix. Figure 2j shows a right-handed helix. Figure 2k shows the right ear, including the right ear helix. Figure 2l shows the left-hand rule. Figure 2m illustrates the right-hand rule. Figure 2n shows a surface with a structure of one-dimensional pores on the surface. The illustrated planar curve forms the boundary of a one-dimensional hole. Figure 2o shows a cross-section through the structure of Figure 2n. The surface shown defines a two-dimensional hole in the structure of Figure 2n. Figure 2p shows a perspective view of the structure of Figure 2n, including two-dimensional holes and one-dimensional holes. Also shown are the surfaces defining two-dimensional pores in the structure of Figure 2n. head mounted display Positioning and stabilizing structures 3a to 3c are respectively a side view, a front view and a top view of the positioning and stabilizing structure of the head-mounted display system according to the first example of the present technology. Figure 3d is a cross-sectional view of the temporal arm of the head mounted display assembly of Figures 3a-3c, in accordance with an example of the present technology. 3e is a cross-sectional view of the temporal arm of the head mounted display assembly of FIGS. 3a-3c according to another example of the present technology. 4a to 4c are respectively a side view, a front view and a top view of a positioning and stabilizing structure of a head-mounted display system according to a second example of the present technology. 5a to 5c are respectively a side view, a front view and a top view of a positioning and stabilizing structure of a head-mounted display system according to a third example of the present technology. 6 is a side view of a positioning and stabilizing structure of a head-mounted display system according to a fourth example of the present technology. 7a to 7c are respectively a side view, a front view, and a top view of a head-mounted display system according to a modification of a fourth example of the present technology. 8 is a top view of a head-mounted display element in use according to a modification of the fourth example of the present technology. 9a and 9b are side views of positioning and stabilizing structures, respectively, of a head-mounted display system according to examples of the present technology. 10a-10c are side views of positioning and stabilizing structures of a head-mounted display system according to examples of the present technology. 11a to 11c are schematic side views of positioning and stabilizing structures of a head-mounted display system according to examples of the present technology. Figures 12a and 12b are schematic side views of positioning and stabilizing structures of a head mounted display system according to examples of the present technology. Figure 12c is a schematic side view of a positioning and stabilizing structure of a head mounted display system illustrating adjustability characteristics according to examples of the present technology. 13a and 13b are schematic side views of positioning and stabilizing structures including a forehead support arrangement of a head mounted display system according to examples of the present technology. Figure 14a is a schematic side view of a positioning and stabilizing structure according to an example of the present technology. Figure 14b is a schematic side view of a positioning and stabilizing structure having a front portion in example configurations of first and second configurations in accordance with an example of the present technology. Figure 14c is a schematic side view of a positioning and stabilizing structure showing vector positions in accordance with an example of the present technology. 14d is a schematic side view of a positioning and stabilizing structure having a display unit configured in example configurations of first and second configurations in accordance with an example of the present technology. Interface structure Figure 15a is a cutaway elevation view through axis A-A of an interface structure in use according to an example of the present technology, with the left hand side showing the location of the interface structure and the right hand side showing the approximate facial area engaged by the interface structure. Figure 15b is a side view of the interface structure of Figure 15a in use. Figures 16a, 16b, and 16c are respectively a side view, a top view, and a front view of an interface structure in use according to a second example of the present technology. Figure 17a is a side cross-sectional view through axis B-B of Figure 16c illustrating a support structure and face engaging surface in accordance with an example of the present technology. Figure 17b is a side cross-sectional view through axis B-B of Figure 16c illustrating a support structure further including a support flange and a face engaging surface in accordance with an example of the present technology. Figure 18 is a front top view of an interface structure in use according to a third example of the present technology. 19 is a partial front top view of an interface structure in use according to a fourth example of the present technology. 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d are perspective views of an interface structure in use according to a fifth example of the present technology. 21a is a side cross-sectional view through axis C-C of FIG. 20b illustrating a face-engaging surface including a foam pad attached directly to an upper portion of a support structure in accordance with an example of the present technology. Figure 21b is a side cross-sectional view through axis C-C of Figure 20b showing a face engaging surface covering a foam pad attached directly to an upper portion of a support structure in accordance with an example of the present technology. 22 is a rear view of an interface structure in use according to a sixth example of the present technology, wherein the width W of the interface structure is adjustable. Figures 23a and 23b are cross-sectional views from below of an adjustable interface structure in use at a wider lens width XX and a narrower lens width YY, respectively, in accordance with examples of the present technology. Lens width is measured from the central axis of the first lens (eg, axis E-E) to the central axis of the second lens (eg, axis D-D). 24 is a rear view of an interface structure in use according to a seventh example of the present technology. Anthropometric data model Figures 25a and 25b are sizing and clustering anthropometric profile models based on head shape changes according to examples of the present technology. Figures 26a and 26b are anthropometric profile models based on dimensions of specified facial regions in accordance with examples of the present technology. Figures 27a and 27b are anthropometric profile models based on dimensions of anthropometric landmarks in accordance with examples of the present technology. Material Figure 28 is a cross-sectional view of a positioning and stabilizing structure according to an example of the present technology. Figure 29 is a cross-sectional view of a positioning and stabilizing structure according to another example of the present technology. 30 is a close-up side view of an engagement structure (eg, an interface structure or a positioning and stabilizing structure) exerting pressure on a user's head when in use, in accordance with an example of the present technology, where the pressure is the force exerted on the surface divided by the force acting area. 31 is a close-up side view of an engagement structure twisted T to improve engagement and thereby achieve uniformity of pressure on a user's head when using the engagement structure, in accordance with an example of the present technology. ) distribution. 32 is a close-up front view of a positioning and stabilizing structure on at least a portion of a user's head (eg, a crown) in accordance with an example of the present technology. 33 is a close-up top view of a resilient portion of a positioning and stabilizing structure in the form of a strap, in accordance with an example of the present technology. 34 is a close-up side view of an example engagement structure that, in use, is partially compliant when engaging a protrusion on a user's head in accordance with the present technology. Examples of VR and AR headsets 35 is a perspective view of a VR head-mounted display device according to an example of the present technology. 36 is a schematic diagram of a controller and control system according to an example of the present technology. 37 is a perspective view of an AR head-mounted display device according to an example of the present technology.

10:Head mounted display system

12:Display unit

14: Positioning and stabilizing structures

16:Rear support hoop

18: Temporal connector

20:Rear edge area

21: Upper edge area

22:Display unit housing

24: Forehead support connector

26: Temporal arm

28:Front end

30:Backend

32: Rigid parts

34: Elastic parts

36: tab

38: Parietal bone

40: Occipital bone

42:Connect straps

44:eyelet

48:Forehead support strap

54: slice part

Claims (41)

A head-mounted display system including: An interface structure for a display unit constructed and arranged in relative relation to a user's face, wherein the interface structure includes a substantially continuous face-engaging surface adapted to contact the face of the user about a periphery of the user's eyes, wherein the interface structure includes an elastomeric material, and wherein one or more regions of the interface structure have a varying thickness to provide varying compliance around the periphery of the interface structure when pressed against the user's face in use; and A nose bridge including a support structure and a pair of elastic flaps, each elastic flap being configured and arranged to project inwardly toward the other elastic flap from the support structure such that a pair of elastic flaps is formed between the pair of elastic flaps. a clearance adapted to accommodate said user's nose, wherein each of the elastic flaps includes a face engaging surface adapted to contact a corresponding side of the user's nose, Each of the elastic flaps is configured to contact the corresponding side of the user's nose and elastically bend toward the display unit, so that each elastic flap does not exert pressure on the corresponding side of the user's nose. Compression pressure is provided on the corresponding side of the user's nose. The head mounted display system of claim 1, wherein the nosepiece forms a hood configured and arranged to allow the user's nose to enter therein. The head mounted display system of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the face engaging surface of the nose bridge is generally saddle-shaped. The head-mounted display system of claim 1, wherein the nosepiece is configured and arranged to alleviate the compression experienced by the sides of the user's nose relative to other areas surrounding the interface structure. pressure. The head-mounted display system of claim 1, wherein the elastomeric material includes silicone. The head-mounted display system of claim 1, wherein the interface structure includes fabric material and/or foam. The head-mounted display system of claim 1, wherein the interface structure includes a support structure and a support flange protruding inwardly from the support structure. The head mounted display system of claim 7, wherein one or more areas of the support flange have the varying thickness. The head-mounted display system of claim 7, wherein one or more areas of the support structure have the varying thickness and/or reinforcing ribs. The head mounted display system of claim 9, wherein the support structure includes a plurality of different thicker and thinner areas of the elastomeric material. The head mounted display system of claim 9, wherein the support structure includes a mixture of gradually varying thicknesses in the elastomeric material. The head mounted display system of claim 9, wherein the reinforcing ribs include thicker areas of the elastomeric material. The head-mounted display system of claim 7, wherein an edge of the flange at least partially forms a viewing opening along its inner circumference, the viewing opening being configured to at least partially receive an eye of the user. The head-mounted display system of claim 7, wherein the flange is in the form of a flap or a film, and/or the thickness of the flange is smaller than the thickness of the support structure. The head-mounted display system of claim 7, wherein the support structure and the flange comprise an integrated single-piece structure made of silicone. The head-mounted display system of claim 1, wherein the interface structure includes a support structure and a flange protruding inwardly from the support structure, wherein the flange includes a substantially continuous face-engaging surface adapted to contact the face of the user, wherein said flange includes said elastomeric material, and wherein said elastomeric material of said flange and said substantially continuous face engaging surface are configured and arranged to contact the face of said user. The head-mounted display system of claim 1, wherein the interface structure includes a chassis having the varying thickness. The head-mounted display system of claim 17, further comprising the display unit, the display unit including a housing, and the chassis being detachably mounted to the housing of the display unit. The head mounted display system of claim 18, wherein the chassis includes one or more engagement elements around its perimeter, the engagement elements being configured to removably mate with corresponding elements on the housing. The head mounted display system of claim 1, wherein the face engaging surface is adapted to contact the user's face in the following areas: cranial muscles, sphenoid bone, spanning between the sphenoid bone and the left or right zygomatic arch. The outer cheek region, above the zygomatic arch, across the inner cheek region from the zygomatic arch toward the apex, and on the nasal ridge below the bridge point to enclose a portion of the user's face therebetween, and wherein the interface structure Configured to withstand greater forces in the area of the parietal muscles and sphenoid bone than in the area of the zygomatic arch, cheek area and nasal ridge. The head mounted display system of claim 1, wherein the interface structure further includes a foam pad, and wherein the face engaging surface covers the foam pad such that the foam pad is on the face engaging surface below. The head mounted display system of claim 1, wherein the substantially continuous face engaging surface includes a negative or convex curvature configured and arranged to contact the user's face. The head-mounted display system of claim 1, wherein the interface structure is customized according to the facial simulation characteristics of the user. The head-mounted display system of claim 1, wherein the face-joining surface of each elastic flap is continuous with the face-joining surface of the interface structure. The head-mounted display system of claim 1, wherein the pair of elastic flaps are configured and arranged to elastically bend independently of each other. The head-mounted display system of claim 1, wherein the gap for accommodating the user's nose is formed between the pair of elastic flaps, and each elastic flap includes an inner edge forming the gap. , and the inner edge of each elastic flap is configured to move toward the display unit when each elastic flap contacts a corresponding side of the user's nose. The head-mounted display system of claim 1, wherein each elastic flap is configured to bend toward the display unit when the interface structure is pressed against the user's face in use. The head-mounted display system of claim 1, wherein each elastic flap is configured to protrude inwardly toward the other elastic flap from the support structure in a cantilever manner. The head-mounted display system of claim 1, further comprising a positioning and stabilizing structure constructed and arranged to support the weight of the display unit. A virtual reality display device, which includes: The head-mounted display system of claim 1, and further comprising the display unit, wherein, The display unit includes: a display configured for selectively outputting a computer-generated image visible to the user in an operating position, a housing supporting the display, the interface structure at least partially forming a viewing opening configured for at least partially receiving the user's face in the operating position, and the interface structure at least consisting in part of an opaque material configured to at least partially block ambient light from reaching the viewing opening in the operating position, and At least one lens coupled to the housing and disposed within the viewing opening and aligned with the display such that in the operating position the user can view through the at least one lens the display; and The head-mounted display system further includes: A control system having at least one sensor in communication with a processor, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to measure a parameter and communicate a measured value to the processor, and wherein the processor is configured to based on the The measurement changes the computer-generated image output by the display. The virtual reality display device as claimed in claim 30, wherein: the at least one lens includes a first lens configured to be aligned with the user's left eye in the operating position and a second lens configured to be aligned with the user's right eye in the operating position, And, the first lens and the second lens are Fresnel lenses; and The display includes a binocular display segmented into a first segment and a second segment, the first segment being aligned with the first lens and the second segment being aligned with the second lens . The virtual reality display device of claim 30, further comprising a controller having at least one button selectively engageable by a user's finger, the controller 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 alter a computer-generated image output by the display based on the signal. An augmented reality display device, which includes: The head mounted display system of claim 1, and further comprising the display unit and a positioning and stabilizing structure constructed and arranged to maintain the display unit in use. The operating position above the person's face, where, The display unit includes: A display constructed from a transparent or translucent material and configured for selective output of computer-generated images, a housing that supports the display, and wherein in the operating position, the positioning and stabilizing structure is configured to support the display unit, and the display is configured to be aligned with the user's eyes in the operating position such that the user can at least Observe the physical environment in part through the display, regardless of the computer-generated image output by the display; and The head-mounted display system further includes: A control system having at least one sensor in communication with a processor, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to measure a parameter and communicate a measured value to the processor, and wherein the processor is configured to based on the The measurement changes the computer-generated image output by the display. The augmented reality display device of claim 33, wherein the display includes a first lens configured to be aligned with the user's left eye in the operating position and a first lens configured to be aligned with the user's left eye in the operating position. Align the second lens with the user's right eye. A head-mounted display system including: An interface structure for a display unit constructed and arranged in relative relation to a user's face, wherein the interface structure includes a substantially continuous face-engaging surface adapted to contact the face of the user about a periphery of the user's eyes, wherein the interface structure includes an elastomeric material, and wherein said interface structure includes a membrane including a substantially continuous face-engaging surface, and said membrane includes an elastomeric material, and A nose bridge including a support structure and a pair of elastic flaps, each elastic flap being configured and projecting inwardly toward the other elastic flap from the support structure such that a suitable fit is formed between the pair of elastic flaps. a clearance to accommodate the user's nose, wherein each of the elastic flaps includes a face engaging surface adapted to contact a corresponding side of the user's nose, Each elastic flap is configured and arranged to be in contact with a corresponding side of the user's nose and elastically bent toward the display unit, so that each elastic flap does not correspond to the user's nose. side applying compressive pressure to the corresponding side of the user's nose, and wherein said face-engaging surface of each elastic flap is continuous with said substantially continuous face-engaging surface of said membrane. The head-mounted display system of claim 35, wherein the face-engaging surface of each elastic flap and the substantially continuous face-engaging surface of the interface structure are formed to surround the user's eyes. functionally continuous interface structure. The head-mounted display system of claim 35, wherein the nose bridge at least partially overlaps the interface structure. A head-mounted display system including: An interface structure for a display unit constructed and arranged in relative relation to a user's face, wherein the interface structure includes a face-engaging portion and a non-face-engaging portion, wherein the interface structure includes an elastomeric material, wherein said face-engaging portion includes a membrane including a face-engaging surface adapted to surround the periphery of said user's eyes so as to contact said user's face, wherein the non-face engaging portion includes a support structure and a frame configured to project inwardly from the support structure, wherein the interface structure further includes a foam pad, wherein said membrane and its face-engaging surface cover said foam padding such that said foam padding is beneath said face-engaging surface, wherein said non-face engaging portion is configured and arranged to resiliently refer to said foam padding and said membrane, and A nose bridge including a support structure and a pair of elastic flaps, each elastic flap being configured and arranged to project inwardly toward the other elastic flap from the support structure such that a pair of elastic flaps is formed between the pair of elastic flaps. a clearance adapted to accommodate said user's nose, wherein each of the elastic flaps includes a face engaging surface adapted to contact a corresponding side of the user's nose, Each of the elastic flaps is configured to contact the corresponding side of the user's nose and elastically bend toward the display unit, so that each elastic flap does not exert pressure on the corresponding side of the user's nose. Compression pressure is provided on the corresponding side of the user's nose. The head-mounted display system of claim 38, wherein the thickness of the film is thinner than the thickness of the non-face engaging portion. The head-mounted display system of claim 38, wherein the membrane, the support structure of the interface structure, and the frame include silicone. The head mounted display system of claim 38, wherein the frame is configured and arranged to provide elastic and spring-like support to the foam pad and membrane.