Wearable devices with adjustable fit

A head-mountable device can include an ability to adjust a fit as needed for a particular user or activity. For example, a light seal module that provides engagement of a user's face and transmits light from a display element can be coupled to an HMD module. The light seal module can be provided in a wide variety of adjustable sizes and/or shapes to allow any given user to select an appropriate one for optimal alignment of an HMD module. The head-mountable device and/or other electronic devices can be operated to guide a user to select the optimal light seal module arrangement for use with an HMD module. For example, the head-mountable device or another device can include sensors for detecting an identity of a user, features of the user's face, forces distributed on the face when worn, and/or an activity being performed.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present description relates generally to head-mountable devices, and, more particularly, to head-mountable devices with adjustable fit capabilities.

BACKGROUND

A head-mountable device can be worn by a user to display visual information within the field of view of the user. The head-mountable device can be used as a virtual reality (VR) system, an augmented reality (AR) system, and/or a mixed reality (MR) system. A user may observe outputs provided by the head-mountable device, such as visual information provided on a display. The display can optionally allow a user to observe an environment outside of the head-mountable device. Other outputs provided by the head-mountable device can include speaker output and/or haptic feedback. A user may further interact with the head-mountable device by providing inputs for processing by one or more components of the head-mountable device. For example, the user can provide tactile inputs, voice commands, and other inputs while the device is mounted to the user's head.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Head-mountable devices, such as head-mountable displays, headsets, visors, smartglasses, head-up display, etc., can perform a range of functions that are managed by the components (e.g., sensors, circuitry, and other hardware) included with the wearable device.

Many of the functions performed by a head-mountable device are optimally experienced when the components are in their most preferred position and orientation with respect to a user wearing the head-mountable device. For example, the head-mountable device can include a display element that visually outputs display-based information toward the eyes of the user. The position and orientation of the display elements relative to the eyes depends, at least in part, on how the head-mountable device is positioned on the face of the user. Due to variations in facial features across different users, a given head-mountable device may require adjustment to accommodate different users. For example, different users can have different facial features (e.g., face plane slope, forehead size, eye location). Accordingly, different users may perceive the displayed information differently unless a preferred arrangement is provided. Additionally, a different position and/or orientation and/or tightness of fit may be preferred for particular activities.

It can be costly to require each user to acquire an entire head-mountable device that is specifically tailored to their facial features. In particular, such an approach would require customization of each head-mountable device and/or the ability to choose from a wide variety of head-mountable devices.

Systems of the present disclosure can provide a head-mountable device with an ability to adjust a fit as needed for a particular user or activity. For example, a light seal module that provides engagement of a user's face and transmits light from a display element can be coupled to an HMD module. The light seal module can be provided in a wide variety of adjustable sizes and/or shapes to allow any given user to select an appropriate one for optimal alignment of an HMD module. The head-mountable device and/or other electronic devices can be operated to guide a user to select the optimal light seal module arrangement for use with an HMD module. For example, the head-mountable device or another device can include sensors for detecting an identity of a user, features of the user's face, forces distributed on the face when worn, and/or an activity being performed.

According to some embodiments, for example as shown inFIG.1, a head-mountable device100includes an HMD module110and a light seal module200. The HMD module110includes a frame108that is worn on a head of a user. The frame108can be positioned in front of the eyes of a user to provide information within a field of view of the user. The HMD module110and/or the light seal module200can provide nose pads and/or other portions to rest on a user's nose, forehead, cheeks, and/or other facial features as described further herein.

The frame108can be supported on a user's head with the securement element300. The head securement element300can wrap around or extend along opposing sides of a user's head. The securement element300can optionally include earpieces for wrapping around or otherwise engaging or resting on a user's ears. It will be appreciated that other configurations can be applied for securing the head-mountable device100to a user's head. For example, one or more bands, straps, belts, caps, hats, or other components can be used in addition to or in place of the illustrated components of the head-mountable device100. By further example, the head securement element300can include multiple components to engage a user's head. The head securement element300can extend from the HMD module110and/or the light seal module200.

The frame108can provide structure around a peripheral region thereof to support any internal components of the frame108in their assembled position. For example, the frame108can enclose and support various internal components (including for example integrated circuit chips, processors, memory devices and other circuitry) to provide computing and functional operations for the head-mountable device100, as discussed further herein. While several components are shown within the frame108, it will be understood that some or all of these components can be located anywhere within or on the head-mountable device100. For example, one or more of these components can be positioned within the head securement element300, the light seal module200, and/or the HMD module110of the head-mountable device100.

The frame108can include and/or support one or more cameras130. The cameras130can be positioned on or near an outer side112of the frame108to capture images of views external to the head-mountable device100. As used herein, an outer side of a portion of a head-mountable device is a side that faces away from the user and/or towards an external environment. The captured images can be used for display to the user or stored for any other purpose. Each of the cameras130can be movable along the outer side112. For example, a track or other guide can be provided for facilitating movement of the camera130therein.

The head-mountable device100can include display elements140that provide visual output for viewing by a user wearing the head-mountable device100. One or more display elements140can be positioned on or near an inner side114of the frame108. As used herein, an inner side114of a portion of a head-mountable device is a side that faces toward the user and/or away from the external environment.

A display element140can transmit light from a physical environment (e.g., as captured by a camera) for viewing by the user. Such a display element140can include optical properties, such as lenses for vision correction based on incoming light from the physical environment. Additionally or alternatively, a display element140can provide information as a display within a field of view of the user. Such information can be provided to the exclusion of a view of a physical environment or in addition to (e.g., overlaid with) a physical environment.

Examples of CGR include virtual reality and mixed reality.

Each display element140can be adjusted to align with a corresponding eye of the user. For example, each display element140can be moved along one or more axes until a center of each display element140is aligned with a center of the corresponding eye. Accordingly, the distance between the display elements140can be set based on an interpupillary distance of the user. IPD is defined as the distance between the centers of the pupils of a user's eyes.

The pair of display elements140can be mounted to the frame108and separated by a distance. The distance between the pair of display elements140can be designed to correspond to the IPD of a user. The distance can be adjustable to account for different IPDs of different users that may wear the head-mountable device100. For example, either or both of the display elements140may be movably mounted to the frame108to permit the display elements140to move or translate laterally to make the distance larger or smaller. Any type of manual or automatic mechanism may be used to permit the distance between the display elements140to be an adjustable distance. For example, the display elements140can be mounted to the frame108via slidable tracks or guides that permit manual or electronically actuated movement of one or more of the display elements140to adjust the distance there between.

Additionally or alternatively, the display elements140can be moved to a target location based on a desired visual effect that corresponds to user's perception of the display element140when it is positioned at the target location. The target location can be determined based on a focal length of the user and/or optical elements of the system. For example, the user's eye and/or optical elements of the system can determine how the visual output of the display element140will be perceived by the user. The distance between the display element140and the user's eye and/or the distance between the display element140and one or more optical elements can be altered to place the display element140at, within, or outside of a corresponding focal distance. Such adjustments can be useful to accommodate a particular user's eye, corrective lenses, and/or a desired optical effect.

As further shown inFIG.1, the light seal module200can include a chassis202that provides structural support to one or more other components of the light seal module200. The chassis202, or portions thereof, can extend to, from, and/or between the inner side214and the outer side212. The chassis202can support a cover204that extends at least partially from the outer side212to the inner side214. The chassis202and/or the cover204can define an interior space through which light can pass, thereby providing to the user wearing the head-mountable device a view of a display elements140of the HMD module110. Such a view can be enhanced by preventing the ingress of light from the external environment and into the light seal module200.

The components of the head-mountable device100can be provided with modular configurations that facilitate engagement (e.g., assembly) and release. As used herein, “modular” or “module” can refer to a characteristic that allows an item, such as a light seal module, to be connected, installed, removed, swapped, and/or exchanged by a user in conjunction with another item, such as an HMD module of a head-mountable device. Connection of a light seal module, a head securement element, and/or an HMD module can be performed and reversed, followed by disconnection and connection of another module replacing the prior module. As such, multiple modules can be exchangeable with each other with respect to another module.

Attachment elements can facilitate coupling of the HMD module110to the light seal module200in a relative position and orientation that aligns the display elements140of the HMD module110in a preferred position and orientation for viewing by the user. The HMD module110and the light seal module200can be coupled to prevent ingress of light from an external environment. For example, HMD module attachment elements180can releasably engage light seal module attachment elements280. One or more of various mechanisms can be provided to secure the modules to each other. For example, mechanisms such as locks, latches, snaps, screws, clasps, threads, magnets, pins, an interference (e.g., friction) fit, knurl presses, bayoneting, and/or combinations thereof can be included to couple and/or secure the HMD module110and the light seal module200together. The modules can remain secured to each other until an optional release mechanism is actuated. The release mechanism can be provided on an outer surface of the head-mountable device100for access by a user.

While the light seal module200is shown schematically with a particular size and shape, it will be understood that the size and shape of the light seal module200, particularly at the inner side214of the light seal module200, can have a size and shape that accommodates the face of a user wearing the head-mountable device100. For example, the inner side214can provide a shape that generally matches the contours of the user's face around the eyes of the user, as described further herein. The inner side214can be provided with one or more features that allow the light seal module200to conform to the face of the user to enhance comfort and block light from entering the light seal module200at the points of contact with the face. For example, the inner side214can provide a flexible, soft, elastic, and/or compliant structure.

While the head-mountable device100is worn by a user, with the inner side214of the light seal module200against the face of the user and/or with the head securement element300against the head of the user, at least the inner side214of the light seal module200can remain in a fixed location and orientation with respect to the face and head of the user. The light seal module200and/or the HMD module110can be adjusted to provide the HMD module110in a desired location and orientation with respect to the face and head of the user. Given the variety of head and face shapes that different users may have, it can be desirable to provide a head-mountable device100with customization and adjustability so that the HMD module110is in a desired position and orientation with respect to the face and head of the user during use.

The head-mountable device100can include one or more user sensors for tracking features of the user wearing the head-mountable device100. Such a sensor can be located at, included with, and/or associated with the HMD module110, the light seal module200, and/or the head securement element300. For example, a user sensor can include or accompany a user sensor170of the HMD module110, a force sensor270of the light seal module200, and/or a head securement sensor370of the head securement element300.

As shown inFIG.1, a head-mountable device100or another electronic device can provide a user sensor170that is operable to measure and/or identify features of the face of the user. The user sensor170can be operated to identify the user wearing the head-mountable device100. According to some embodiments, a head-mountable device100can operate the user sensor170to detect and/or measure one or more regions of a face of a user. Such detections and measurements can be used to determine appropriate adjustments to and/or with respect to a light seal module to achieve a desired fit with respect to the face of the user.

For example, user identification can be provided based on detected features of the user. Such features can include eye features (e.g., iris color, shape, etc.), facial contours, and the like. The user sensor170can include one or more types of sensors. For example the user sensor170can include one or more image sensors, depth sensors, thermal (e.g., infrared) sensors, and the like. By further example, a depth sensor can be configured to measure a distance (e.g., range) to an object (e.g., region of the user's face) via stereo triangulation, structured light, time-of-flight, interferometry, and the like. Additionally or alternatively, the user sensor170and/or the device can capture and/or process an image based on one or more of hue space, brightness, color space, luminosity, and the like.

By further example, the user sensor170can include a touch sensor configured to identify the user based on other types of input, such as a fingerprint scan upon touch input. By further example, the user sensor170can be an input device that receives input from the user to identify the user based on a unique identifier (e.g., selection from menu of users, passcode, password, etc.).

While the user sensor170is depicted as a component of the head-mountable device100, additionally or alternatively, a user sensor can be a component of another type of electronic device (“external device”), such as a portable computing device, a tablet device, a laptop computer, a smartphone, a smart watch, or other appropriate devices that include one or more sensors and/or input devices. The external device can identify the user and communicate such an identification to the head-mountable device100. The external device can be associated with a particular user, such that when the external device is brought into proximity of the head-mountable device100, the head-mountable device100interprets the presence of the external device as an indication that the associated user is wearing the head-mountable device100. The head-mountable device100can make adjustments, as described further herein, based on the identification.

As shown inFIG.1, a head-mountable device100or another electronic device can include sensors that are operated to detect and/or measure one or more forces on the face of a user. Such detections and measurements can be used to determine which of a variety of adjustable configurations is most appropriate to achieve a desired fit with respect to the face of the user.

For example, a light seal module200can provide force sensors270that are operable to measure magnitudes of forces applied to one or more regions of the face of a user. Such regions can include the regions that are engaged by the light seal module200as the head-mountable device100is worn by the user. For example, the regions can include a forehead, a nose, and/or one or both cheeks. The force sensor270can include one or more types of sensors. The force sensor270can include a component that converts mechanical motion and/or deformation of the light seal module200into an electric signal. The force sensor270can include one or more contact sensors, capacitive sensors, strain gauges, resistive touch sensors, piezoelectric sensors, cameras, pressure sensors, photodiodes, and/or other sensors. The force sensor270can detect both the presence and magnitude of a force.

By further example, a user sensor can perform facial feature detection, facial movement detection, facial recognition, eye tracking, user mood detection, user emotion detection, voice detection, etc. Such eye tracking may be used to determine a location of information to be displayed on the display elements140and/or a portion (e.g., object) of a view to be analyzed by the head-mountable device100. By further example, the user sensor can be a bio-sensor for tracking biometric characteristics, such as health and activity metrics. The user sensor can include a bio-sensor that is configured to measure biometrics such as electrocardiographic (ECG) characteristics, galvanic skin resistance, and other electrical properties of the user's body. Additionally or alternatively, a bio-sensor can be configured to measure body temperature, exposure to UV radiation, and other health-related information.

By further example, the head securement element300and/or another component of the head-mountable device100can include a head securement sensor370for detecting tension in or another condition of the head securement element300. Operation of such sensors can facilitate determination of which of a variety of light seal modules is recommended for user by a particular user.

One or more sensors can be provided to detect a fit of the light seal module200with respect to a face of a user. For example, the HMD module110and/or another component of the head-mountable device100can include a light sensor for detecting light within the light seal module200, as described further herein. By further example, the light seal module200and/or another component of the head-mountable device100can include a force sensor270for detecting forces applied to regions of the face of the user, as described further herein. By further example, the head securement element300and/or another component of the head-mountable device100can include a head securement sensor370for detecting tension in or another condition of the head securement element300. Operation of such sensors can facilitate determination of which of a variety of adjustable configurations is most appropriate to achieve a desired fit with respect to the face of the user.

Referring now toFIGS.2and3, the light seal module can have an adjustable thickness that allows the HMD module to be positioned at a desired distance from the head, face, and/or eyes of the user. For example, as shown inFIG.2, the light seal module200can have a thickness18in a first configuration, in which an inner side of the light seal module and an inner side of the HMD module are separated by a first distance. Such a configuration can place the display element140at a desired distance away from the eyes of the user. Such a distance can provide proper viewing of the display element140.

By further example, as shown inFIG.3, the light seal module200can adjust its thickness18in to achieve a second configuration, in which an inner side of the light seal module and an inner side of the HMD module are separated by a second distance, greater than the first distance. Such a configuration can place the display element140at a greater distance away from the eyes of the user. Such a greater distance can provide adequate clearance, for example for additional components such as glasses, lenses, or other optical equipment.

The thickness of the light seal module200can be adjusted by one or more of a variety of mechanisms. For example, the light seal module200can include one or more sliding members, linear actuators, pistons, rack and pinion systems, hydraulic systems, electroactive polymers, piezoelectric elements, and the like. Such mechanisms can be controllably operated by a motor, controller, processor, or other component onboard the head-mountable device100. Multiple adjustment mechanisms can be actuated simultaneously to perform the desired adjustment.

The thickness18of one or more portions of the light seal module200can be selected based on the desired target distances as needed to place an HMD module at a desired position relative to the head, face, and/or eyes of the user. Where such a desired position are known, the light seal module can be adjusted to provide the appropriate thickness18to place the HMD module at the desired position when the light seal module is engaged to the HMD module and the face of the user.

WhileFIGS.2and3illustrate an adjustable thickness, it will be understood that any dimension can be considered for adjusting a light seal module. For example, a width and/or height of any portion and/or between different portions can be adjusted. Additionally, such adjustments can affect the tightness of the head securement element300and fit of the light seal module200on the face of the user.

It will be understood that an adjustment to the HMD module110with respect to the light seal module200can result in an adjustment to the HMD module110with respect to the face and/or head of the user. As such, the adjustments described herein can alter a tightness of the head securement element300on the head of the user. For example, by moving the HMD module110away from the face of the user (e.g., by increasing the thickness of the light seal module200), tension along the head securement element300can be increased. By further example, by moving the HMD module110toward the face of the user (e.g., by decreasing the thickness of the light seal module200), tension along the head securement element300can be decreased.

Additionally or alternatively, the tension in the head securement element can be adjusted with a tensioner. As shown inFIGS.2and3, a head-mountable device100can include one or more tensioners400at one or more locations along a length of the head securement element300. The tensioner400can adjust a relative position of segments of the head securement element300, such as a segment attached to a side of the HMD module110and a segment on a rear side of the head-mountable device. It will be understood that the tensioners can be positioned at, within, or adjacent to any portion of the head securement element300.

As shown inFIG.2, the tensioner400can have an extended position, in which adjacent segments of the head securement element300are a first distance apart. As shown inFIG.3, the tensioner400can have a retracted position, in which adjacent segments of the head securement element300are a second distance, greater than the first distance, apart. The tensioner400can be operated to allow the head securement element300to retract and reduce or eliminate the gap between the segments. During such extension and/or retraction, tensioner400and/or segments of the head securement element300can move relative to and/or within one another.

The tensioner400can include one or more of a variety of components. For example, the tensioner400can include or be connected to motors, hydraulic actuators, pneumatic actuators, magnetic actuators, piezoelectric actuators, electroactive materials, stepper motors, shape-memory alloys, and the like, as well as drivetrain components such as gears, clutches, and/or transmissions, to facilitate independent or simultaneous movement of components based on operation of corresponding tensioners. In some embodiments, a tensioner can be an analog, digital, or integrated circuit configured to apply an electrical signal to cause tension (either directly or indirectly) to be applied to, or relieved form, the components. In some embodiments, a tensioner can be a physical apparatus such as a motor, electromagnetic coil, or solenoid that can be actuated to cause tension (either directly or indirectly) to be applied to, or relieved from, the components. Accordingly, the term “tensioner” and related phrases and terminology is used herein to generally refer to a circuit, apparatus, controller, or program code executed by a processor, that is configured to cause, either directly or indirectly, tension in a connector to increase or decrease.

While the tensioner400is shown inFIGS.2and3to complement the tensioning effects of the adjustments to the light seal module200and/or the HMD module110, it will be understood that the tensioner400can be operated to offset and/or negate the tensioning effects of the effects of the adjustments to the light seal module200and/or the HMD module110. For example, the tensioner400can relieve tension when the HMD module110moves away from the face of the user (e.g., by increasing the thickness of the light seal module200). By further example, the tensioner400can increase tension when the HMD module110moves toward the face of the user (e.g., by decreasing the thickness of the light seal module200). Accordingly, the tension in the head securement element300and the tightness of the fit of the head-mountable device100can be adjusted as an effect of the adjustments to the light seal module200and/or the HMD module110, but the tension in the head securement element300and the tightness of the fit of the head-mountable device100can also be adjusted to reduce or avoid the effect of the adjustments to the light seal module200and/or the HMD module110.

It will be understood that such adjustments to thickness, distance, tensions, and/or tightness can be adjusted based on one or more of a variety of factors, as discussed further herein.

Referring now toFIGS.4-7, a position of the HMD module can be adjusted relative to a light seal module based on one or more automated or manually controlled mechanisms. While the light seal module itself can change its thickness, it will be understood that the position of the HMD module can optionally be adjusted by altering its position relative to the light seal module, regardless of whether the light seal module changes its thickness.

As shown inFIG.4, the HMD module110can be in a first position with respect to the light seal module200, in which an inner side of the light seal module200and an inner side of the HMD module110are separated by a first distance. Such a configuration can place the display element140at a desired distance away from the eyes of the user. Such a distance can provide proper viewing of the display element140.

As shown inFIG.5, an actuation element410can be operated to move the HMD module110to a second position with respect to the light seal module200, in which an inner side of the light seal module200and an inner side of the HMD module110are separated by a second distance, greater than the first distance. Such a configuration can place the display element140at a greater distance away from the eyes of the user. Such a greater distance can provide adequate clearance, for example for additional components such as glasses, lenses, or other optical equipment.

The actuation element410can be actively operated based on control signals generated by a component of the head-mountable device100and/or in response to detected conditions. The actuation element410can include one or more sliding members, linear actuators, pistons, rack and pinion systems, hydraulic systems, electroactive polymers, piezoelectric elements, and the like. Such mechanisms can be controllably operated by a motor, controller, processor, or other component onboard the head-mountable device100. Multiple adjustment mechanisms can be actuated simultaneously to perform the desired adjustment.

While the adjustment described herein can be automated, additionally or alternatively a user can manually adjust a distance. As shown inFIG.6, the HMD module110can be manually placed in a first position with respect to the light seal module200, in which an inner side of the light seal module200and an inner side of the HMD module110are separated by a first distance.

As shown inFIG.7, an adjustment element420can facilitate manual adjustment to move the HMD module110to a second position with respect to the light seal module200, in which an inner side of the light seal module200and an inner side of the HMD module110are separated by a second distance, greater than the first distance. The adjustment element420can be manually operated when grasped or otherwise acted upon by a user. The adjustment element420can include one or more expandable elements, hinged devices, sliding members, pistons, rollers, tracks, and the like. Such mechanisms can be controllably operated by a user, and termination of such operation can allow the HMD module110to remain in place. For example, a brake, detent, friction member, and the like can maintain the HMD module110in a position achieved by the user.

Referring now toFIGS.8and9, the light seal module can have an adjustable and variable thickness that allows the HMD module to be oriented at a desired orientation with respect to the head, face, and/or eyes of the user. For example, as shown inFIG.8, the light seal module200can form an angle20in a first configuration, in which the HMD module110is tilted to achieve a first orientation. Such a configuration can place the display element140at a desired orientation with respect to the eyes of the user. Such an orientation can provide proper viewing of the display element140. By further example, as shown inFIG.9, the light seal module200can adjust the angle20to achieve a second configuration, in which the HMD module110is tilted to achieve a second orientation, different than the first orientation.

The angle20can be selected based on the desired target tilt as needed to place an HMD module at a desired orientation relative to the head, face, and/or eyes of the user. Where such a desired orientation are known, the light seal module can be adjusted to provide the appropriate angle20to place the HMD module at the desired orientation when the light seal module is engaged to the HMD module and the face of the user.

It will be understood that the adjustment of the angle can be achieved by altering the effective thickness of an upper side218and/or a lower side216of the light seal module200. For example, the upper side218can increase in thickness and/or the lower side216can decrease in thickness as shown inFIG.8. By further example, the upper side218can decrease in thickness and/or the lower side216can increase in thickness as shown inFIG.9.

The thicknesses of one or more sides the light seal module200can be adjusted by one or more of a variety of mechanisms. For example, the light seal module200can include, on or more sides, one or more sliding members, linear actuators, pistons, rack and pinion systems, hydraulic systems, electroactive polymers, piezoelectric elements, and the like. Such mechanisms can be controllably operated by a motor, controller, processor, or other component onboard the head-mountable device100. Multiple adjustment mechanisms can be actuated in different ways to perform the desired adjustment to tilt.

It will be understood that such adjustments to angle and/or orientation can be adjusted based on one or more of a variety of factors, as discussed further herein. Such adjustments can effect the distribution of forces applied by the light seal module200on the face of the user.

Referring now toFIGS.10-13, a tilt of the HMD module can be adjusted relative to a light seal module based on one or more automated or manually controlled mechanisms. While the light seal module itself can change its thickness, it will be understood that the angle of the HMD module can optionally be adjusted by altering its orientation relative to the light seal module, regardless of whether the light seal module changes its shape.

As shown inFIG.10, the HMD module110can be in a first orientation with respect to the light seal module200, in which the HMD module110is tilted to achieve a first angle. Such a configuration can place the display element140at a desired distance away from the eyes of the user. Such a configuration can place the display element140at a desired orientation with respect to the eyes of the user.

As shown inFIG.5, a tilt element430can be operated to move the HMD module110to a second orientation with respect to the light seal module200, in which the HMD module110is tilted to achieve a second angle, different than the first angle.

The tilt element430can be actively operated based on control signals generated by a component of the head-mountable device100and/or in response to detected conditions. The tilt element430can include one or more sliding members, wheels, rotors, gears, linear actuators, pistons, rack and pinion systems, hydraulic systems, electroactive polymers, piezoelectric elements, and the like. Where applicable, the HMD module110can be configured to pivot with respect to the light seal module200, such that linear motion at one location is translated to rotation of the HMD module110with respect to the light seal module200. Such mechanisms can be controllably operated by a motor, controller, processor, or other component onboard the head-mountable device100.

While the adjustment described herein can be automated, additionally or alternatively a user can manually adjust a degree of tilt. As shown inFIG.12, the HMD module110can be manually placed in a first orientation with respect to the light seal module200, in which the HMD module110is tilted to achieve a first angle.

As shown inFIG.7, a rotation element440can facilitate manual adjustment to rotate the HMD module110to a second orientation with respect to the light seal module200, in which the HMD module110is tilted to achieve a second angle, different than the first angle. The adjustment element420can be manually operated when grasped or otherwise acted upon by a user. The adjustment element420can include one or more rotation element, hinged devices, sliding members, pistons, rollers, wheels, rotors, tracks, and the like. Where applicable, the HMD module110can be configured to pivot with respect to the light seal module200, such that linear motion at one location is translated to rotation of the HMD module110with respect to the light seal module200. Such mechanisms can be controllably operated by a user, and termination of such operation can allow the HMD module110to remain in place. For example, as shown inFIGS.12and13, a detent, brake, friction member, and the like can maintain the HMD module110in an orientation achieved by the user.

FIG.14illustrates a flow diagram of an example process1400for determining a recommended light seal module with corresponding output to a user. For explanatory purposes, the process1400is primarily described herein with reference to the head-mountable device100ofFIGS.1-13. However, the process1400is not limited to the head-mountable device100ofFIGS.1-13, and one or more blocks (or operations) of the process1400may be performed by different components of the head-mountable device and/or one or more other devices. Further for explanatory purposes, the blocks of the process1400are described herein as occurring in serial, or linearly. However, multiple blocks of the process1400may occur in parallel. In addition, the blocks of the process1400need not be performed in the order shown and/or one or more blocks of the process1400need not be performed and/or can be replaced by other operations.

The process1400can begin when the head-mountable device detects a condition (1402).

In some embodiments, the condition can be an identity of the user wearing the head-mountable device. The identity can be detected with one or more sensors and/or input devices of the head-mountable device, as described herein. Additionally or alternatively, the identity can be detected with one or more sensors and/or input devices of an external device in communication with the head-mountable device, as described herein. The identity and/or an indication thereof can be used to retrieve information relating to the user (e.g., in a user profile), where such information can be used to determine a recommended adjustment to a light seal module, an HMD module, and/or a head securement element (e.g., tensioner).

In some embodiments, the condition can be an interaction between the head-mountable device and the user. For example, one or more sensors of the head-mountable device can detect one or more forces applied to the face of the user (e.g., by the light seal element and/or the head-securement element), as described herein. The detected forces or other can be used to determine a recommended adjustment to a light seal module, an HMD module, and/or a head securement element (e.g., tensioner).

In some embodiments, the condition can be an operational state of the head-mountable device (e.g., on/off state, application launch, user input command, and the like). For example, the determination of a recommended adjustment can be based, at least in part, on an activity (e.g., operational mode) of the head-mountable device and/or the user. For example, the head-mountable device can recognize and/or provide an indication that an active operation, program, application, and/or activity involves a magnitude and/or type of movement by the user. By further example, the indication can relate to an output (e.g., on the display element) prompting the user to move (e.g., during an exercise activity). A particular adjustment may be recommended to maintain engagement with the face of the user during such an operational mode. In another operational mode, the head-mountable device can recognize and/or provide an indication that an active operation, program, application, and/or activity does not involve a magnitude and/or type of movement by the user. For example, the head-mountable device can output video and/or audio for the user to passively observe without active movement. A particular adjustment may be recommended to reduce forces applied to the face of the user during such an operational mode. Additionally or alternatively, the head-mountable device can detect an activity such as movement of the head-mountable device corresponding to movement by the user. Such movement exceeding a given threshold of magnitude and/or exceeding a threshold of time can be addressed by tightening the band, for example based on an anticipated continuation of such movement. Such a response can be maintained until the activity (e.g., magnitude and/or duration of movement) decreases or ceases. Accordingly, the head-mountable device and/or other device can determine the recommended adjustment for a duration of time (e.g., throughout the duration of an operational mode).

Based on the condition, the head-mountable device can determine a recommended adjustment to a light seal module, an HMD module, and/or a head securement element (e.g., tensioner) (1404). The adjustment can be one that accommodates the user's face based on a detected condition. An adjustment can be to the HMD module, the light seal module, the head securement element, and/or another component of the head-mountable device. For example, the recommended adjustment can include altering the position of the HMD module with respect to the light seal module and/or the user (e.g., to position the display elements with respect to the eyes of the user). By further example, the recommended adjustment can include altering the orientation of the HMD module with respect to the light seal module and/or the user (e.g., to orient the display elements with respect to the eyes of the user). By further example, the recommended adjustment can include tightening or loosening the tensioner of the head securement element, which can alter the engagement of the light seal module on the face of the user.

Based on the recommended adjustment, the head-mountable device can operate one or more components thereof to adjust a light seal module, an HMD module, and/or a head securement element (1406). For example, the head-mountable device can operate and/or adjust the light seal module, the tensioner, the actuation element, the adjustment element, the tilt element, and/or the rotation element. It will be understood that one or more of these components can be operated in parallel or series to achieve the desired adjustment. Such operations can control the position, orientation, and/or tightness of one or more components of the head-mountable device.

FIG.15illustrates a flow diagram of an example process1500for determining a recommended light seal module with corresponding output to a user. For explanatory purposes, the process1500is primarily described herein with reference to the head-mountable device100ofFIGS.1-13. However, the process1500is not limited to the head-mountable device100ofFIGS.1-13, and one or more blocks (or operations) of the process1500may be performed by different components of the head-mountable device and/or one or more other devices. Further for explanatory purposes, the blocks of the process1500are described herein as occurring in serial, or linearly. However, multiple blocks of the process1500may occur in parallel. In addition, the blocks of the process1500need not be performed in the order shown and/or one or more blocks of the process1500need not be performed and/or can be replaced by other operations.

The process1400can begin when the head-mountable device detects a condition (1502). In some embodiments, the condition can be an identity of the user wearing the head-mountable device, an interaction between the head-mountable device and the user, and/or an operational state of the head-mountable device, as described with respect to operation1402.

Based on the condition, the head-mountable device can determine a recommended adjustment to a light seal module, an HMD module, and/or a head securement element (e.g., tensioner) (1504). The adjustment can be to the HMD module, the light seal module, the head securement element, and/or another component of the head-mountable device, as described with respect to operation1404.

Based on the recommended adjustment, the head-mountable device or other device can provide an output to a user based on the recommended light seal module and/or recommended adjustment (1506). For example, the head-mountable device can provide a visual output on the display elements, a sound, or other output that communicates to the user an indication of the recommended light seal module and/or recommended adjustment. The user can then take appropriate actions to adjust the HMD module, the light seal module, the head securement element, and/or another component of the head-mountable device. In some examples, the head-mountable device can communicate with another system to order a recommended adjustment. The output can further include instructions for adjusting the HMD module, the light seal module, the head securement element, and/or another component of the head-mountable device and/or otherwise achieving the recommended adjustment.

Referring now toFIG.16, components of the head-mountable device can be operably connected to provide the performance described herein.FIG.16shows a simplified block diagram of an illustrative head-mountable device100in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. It will be appreciated that components described herein can be provided on one, some, or all of an HMD module, a light seal module, and/or a securement element. It will be understood that additional components, different components, or fewer components than those illustrated may be utilized within the scope of the subject disclosure.

As shown inFIG.16, the head-mountable device100can include a processor150(e.g., control circuitry) with one or more processing units that include or are configured to access a memory182having instructions stored thereon. The instructions or computer programs may be configured to perform one or more of the operations or functions described with respect to the head-mountable device100. The processor150can be implemented as any electronic device capable of processing, receiving, or transmitting data or instructions. For example, the processor150may include one or more of: a microprocessor, a central processing unit (CPU), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), or combinations of such devices. As described herein, the term “processor” is meant to encompass a single processor or processing unit, multiple processors, multiple processing units, or other suitably configured computing element or elements.

The memory182can store electronic data that can be used by the head-mountable device100. For example, the memory182can store electrical data or content such as, for example, audio and video files, documents and applications, device settings and user preferences, timing and control signals or data for the various modules, data structures or databases, and so on. The memory182can be configured as any type of memory. By way of example only, the memory182can be implemented as random access memory, read-only memory, Flash memory, removable memory, or other types of storage elements, or combinations of such devices.

The head-mountable device100can further include a display element140for displaying visual information for a user. The display element140can provide visual (e.g., image or video) output. The display element140can be or include an opaque, transparent, and/or translucent display. The display element140may have a transparent or translucent medium through which light representative of images is directed to a user's eyes. The display element140may utilize digital light projection, OLEDs, LEDs, uLEDs, liquid crystal on silicon, laser scanning light source, or any combination of these technologies. The medium may be an optical waveguide, a hologram medium, an optical combiner, an optical reflector, or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, the transparent or translucent display may be configured to become opaque selectively. Projection-based systems may employ retinal projection technology that projects graphical images onto a person's retina. Projection systems also may be configured to project virtual objects into the physical environment, for example, as a hologram or on a physical surface. The head-mountable device100can include an optical subassembly configured to help optically adjust and correctly project the image-based content being displayed by the display element140for close up viewing. The optical subassembly can include one or more lenses, mirrors, or other optical devices.

The head-mountable device100can further include a camera130for capturing a view of an external environment, as described herein. The view captured by the camera can be presented by the display element140or otherwise analyzed to provide a basis for an output on the display element140.

The head-mountable device100can include an input/output component186, which can include any suitable component for connecting head-mountable device100to other devices. Suitable components can include, for example, audio/video jacks, data connectors, or any additional or alternative input/output components. The input/output component186can include buttons, keys, or another feature that can act as a keyboard for operation by the user.

The head-mountable device100can include the microphone188as described herein. The microphone188can be operably connected to the processor150for detection of sound levels and communication of detections for further processing, as described further herein.

The head-mountable device100can include the speakers190as described herein. The speakers190can be operably connected to the processor150for control of speaker output, including sound levels, as described further herein.

The head-mountable device100can include communications circuitry192for communicating with one or more servers or other devices using any suitable communications protocol. For example, communications circuitry192can support Wi-Fi (e.g., a 802.11 protocol), Ethernet, Bluetooth, high frequency systems (e.g., 900 MHz, 2.4 GHz, and 5.6 GHz communication systems), infrared, TCP/IP (e.g., any of the protocols used in each of the TCP/IP layers), HTTP, BitTorrent, FTP, RTP, RTSP, SSH, any other communications protocol, or any combination thereof. Communications circuitry192can also include an antenna for transmitting and receiving electromagnetic signals.

The head-mountable device100can include one or more user sensors170that are operable to measure features of the face of a user, as described herein.

The head-mountable device100can include one or more force sensors270for detecting forces applied to regions of the face of the user, as described herein.

The head-mountable device100can include one or more head securement sensor370for detecting tension in or another condition of the head securement element300, as described herein.

The head-mountable device100can include one or more other sensors. Such sensors can be configured to sense substantially any type of characteristic such as, but not limited to, images, pressure, light, touch, force, temperature, position, motion, and so on. For example, the sensor can be a photodetector, a temperature sensor, a light or optical sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a humidity sensor, a magnet, a gyroscope, an accelerometer, a chemical sensor, an ozone sensor, a particulate count sensor, and so on. By further example, the sensor can be a bio-sensor for tracking biometric characteristics, such as health and activity metrics. Other user sensors can perform facial feature detection, facial movement detection, facial recognition, eye tracking, user mood detection, user emotion detection, voice detection, etc. Sensors can include the camera130which can capture image based content of the outside world.

The head-mountable device100can include a battery, which can charge and/or power components of the head-mountable device100. The battery can also charge and/or power components connected to the head-mountable device100.

The head-mountable device100can include adjustment control components described herein, such as a motor, an actuator, and the like for moving components to a desired relative position and/or orientation.

An external device500can be provided in communication with the head-mountable device. The external device can include a portable computing device, a tablet device, a laptop computer, a smartphone, a smart watch, or other appropriate devices that include one or more sensors and/or input devices. The external device500can include a sensor570and/or an input device510. The external device500can provide and/or record an identity of the user wearing the head-mountable device. For example, when a user holding or wearing the external device is also wearing the head-mountable device, the head-mountable device can detect the external device and determine the identity of the one holding and/or wearing the external device (e.g., as owner of the external device) as the same person wearing the head-mountable device. The external device can identify the user based on one or more of a variety of detections and/or inputs, such as a fingerprint scan and/or other biometric scan by the sensor570and/or an input provided at the input device510to identify the user based on a unique identifier (e.g., selection from menu of users, passcode, password, etc.).

Communication between an external device500and the head-mountable device100can optionally be conducted via the communications circuitry192and592. The communications circuitry592can include one or more features described herein with respect to the communications circuitry192.

Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a head-mountable device can include an ability to adjust a fit as needed for a particular user or activity. For example, a light seal module that provides engagement of a user's face and transmits light from a display element can be coupled to an HMD module. The light seal module can be provided in a wide variety of adjustable sizes and/or shapes to allow any given user to select an appropriate one for optimal alignment of an HMD module. The head-mountable device and/or other electronic devices can be operated to guide a user to select the optimal light seal module arrangement for use with an HMD module. For example, the head-mountable device or another device can include sensors for detecting an identity of a user, features of the user's face, forces distributed on the face when worn, and/or an activity being performed.

Various examples of aspects of the disclosure are described below as clauses for convenience. These are provided as examples, and do not limit the subject technology.

Clause A: a head-mountable device comprising: an HMD module comprising a display element; a light seal module coupled to the HMD module and configured to rest on a face of a user; an eye sensor configured to detect at least one of a position or an orientation of an eye of the user with respect to the display element of the HMD module; wherein the light seal module is configured to transition, based on the at least one of the position or the orientation of the eye with respect to the display element, between: a first configuration in which the display element is in at least one of a first position or first orientation with respect to the eye of the user; and a second configuration in which the display element is in at least one of a second position or second orientation with respect to the eye of the user.

Clause B: a head-mountable device comprising: an HMD module comprising a display element; a head securement element extending from the HMD module and configured to engage a head of a user; a tensioner coupled to the head securement element; and a processor configured to: detect an activity of the HMD module; and based on a detection of the activity, operate the tensioner to adjust a tightness of the head securement element.

Clause C: a head-mountable device comprising: an HMD module comprising a display element; a light seal module coupled to the HMD module and configured to rest on a face of a user; a processor configured to: receive an indicator corresponding to an identity of the user wearing the head-mountable device; based on the indicator, adjust at least one of a position or an orientation of the HMD module with respect to the light seal module.

One or more of the above clauses can include one or more of the features described below. It is noted that any of the following clauses may be combined in any combination with each other, and placed into a respective independent clause, e.g., clause A, B, or C.

Clause 1: a head securement element extending from the HMD module and configured to engage a head of the user; a microphone; a speaker; and communications circuitry for communicating with another device.

Clause 2: in the first configuration, an inner side of the light seal module and an inner side of the HMD module are separated by a first distance; and in the second configuration, the inner side of the light seal module and the inner side of the HMD module are separated by a second distance, greater than the first distance.

Clause 3: in the first configuration, the light seal module forms a first angle with respect to the HMD module; and in the second configuration, the light seal module forms a second angle, greater than the first angle, with respect to the HMD module.

Clause 4: the light seal module comprises a light seal module attachment element releasably engaged with an HMD module attachment element of the HMD module.

Clause 5: in the light seal module comprises: a chassis defining an opening; and a cover extending about the chassis.

Clause 6: a processor configured to: based on the at least one of the position or the orientation of the eye with respect to the display element, determine a recommended adjustment to the light seal module; and provide an output to the user, the output comprising an indication of the recommended adjustment.

Clause 7: a processor configured to determine the recommended adjustment based on an operational mode of the HMD module.

Clause 8: the light seal module forms an inner side and an outer side, wherein the inner side and the outer side are adjustable to control an orientation of the display element with respect to the eye of the user.

Clause 9: the activity is a first activity; the tightness is a first tightness; the processor is further configured to: detect a second activity of the HMD module; and based on a detection of the second activity, operate the tensioner to adjust to a second tightness of the head securement element, the second tightness being greater than the first tightness.

Clause 10: the activity comprises an output by the display element prompting the user to move the head of the user.

Clause 11: the processor is further configured to: based on the detection of the activity, determine a recommended adjustment to the tensioner; and provide an output to the user, the output comprising an indication of the recommended adjustment.

Clause 12: a communication element, wherein the indicator is received via the communication element and from an external device.

Clause 13: an eye sensor configured to detect a characteristic of an eye of the user and generate the indicator based on the characteristic.

Clause 14: an input device configured to receive an input from the user and determine the indicator based on the input.

Clause 15: the processor is further configured to: based on the indicator, determine a recommended adjustment to the at least one of a position or an orientation of the HMD module with respect to the light seal module; and provide an output to the user, the output comprising an indication of the recommended adjustment.

Clause 16: the light seal module is configured to transition between: a first configuration, in which an inner side of the light seal module and an inner side of the HMD module are separated by a first distance; and a second configuration, the inner side of the light seal module and the inner side of the HMD module are separated by a second distance, greater than the first distance.

Clause 17: a first configuration, in which the light seal module forms a first angle with respect to the HMD module; and a second configuration, the light seal module forms a second angle, greater than the first angle, with respect to the HMD module.

The present disclosure recognizes that the use of such personal information data, in the present technology, can be used to the benefit of users. For instance, health and fitness data may be used to provide insights into a user's general wellness, or may be used as positive feedback to individuals using technology to pursue wellness goals.

The claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects described herein, but are to be accorded the full scope consistent with the language of the claims and to encompass all legal equivalents. Notwithstanding, none of the claims are intended to embrace subject matter that fails to satisfy the requirements of the applicable patent law, nor should they be interpreted in such a way.