PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-11366325-B2
Application Number: US-202017064829-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Display devices with multimodal audio

Abstract:
An audio component for a head-mounted display system includes a first port through which sound is projected to a user during operation in a first audio mode, a second port through which sound is projected to a user during operation in a second audio mode, an insulator positioned along an acoustic path between the first port and the second port, wherein the insulator is configured to inhibit sound projection along the acoustic path by isolating the first port from the second port, and an earpiece configured to engage the audio component to an ear of the a user, to deliver sound from the audio component to the user, and to reduce ambient noise from a surrounding environment during operation of the audio component in the second audio mode.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. An audio component for a head-mounted display system, comprising:
 a first port through which sound is projected to a user during operation in a first audio mode; 
 a second port through which sound is projected to a user during operation in a second audio mode; 
 an insulator positioned along an acoustic path between the first port and the second port, wherein the insulator is configured to inhibit sound projection along the acoustic path by isolating the first port from the second port; and 
 an earpiece configured to engage the audio component to an ear of the user, to deliver sound from the audio component to the user, and to reduce ambient noise from a surrounding environment during operation of the audio component in the second audio mode, 
 wherein physically disconnecting the earpiece from the audio component transitions the audio component from the second audio mode to the first audio mode. 
 
     
     
       2. The audio component of  claim 1 , wherein the earpiece comprises a deformable material that is configured to be expanded or contracted to create a sealing engagement. 
     
     
       3. The audio component of  claim 1 , wherein the earpiece is configured to be stowed in a recess defined within a wearable support, and wherein stowing the earpiece within the recess inhibits projection of sound through the earpiece during operation of the audio component in the first audio mode. 
     
     
       4. The audio component of  claim 1 , wherein the first port projects sound in a direction away from a temple of the user or a head of the user in the first audio mode, and wherein the first and second ports are axially offset from one another along a longitudinal axis of the audio component. 
     
     
       5. The audio component of  claim 1 , further comprising:
 a gate movable through the insulator between a first position associated with the first audio mode and a second position associated with the second audio mode. 
 
     
     
       6. A display system that facilitates image and video display, comprising:
 a wearable support configured to secure the display system to a user; 
 an audio component configured to connect to the wearable support, the audio component comprising:
 a first port through which sound is projected to the user in a first audio mode; and 
 a second port through which sound is projected to the user in a second audio mode; and 
 
 an accessory configured to connect to the audio component, wherein connecting the accessory to the audio component transitions the audio component from the first audio mode to the second audio mode. 
 
     
     
       7. The display system of  claim 6 , wherein the accessory is configured for in-ear use or on-ear use, and wherein the second port projects sound through the accessory in a direction toward or into an ear of the user in the second audio mode. 
     
     
       8. The display system of  claim 6 , wherein the first port projects sound in a direction away from a temple of the user or a head of the user, and wherein the first and second ports are axially offset from one another along a longitudinal axis of the audio component. 
     
     
       9. The display system of  claim 6 , the audio component further comprising:
 a controller configured to detect an identity or a configuration of the accessory and vary an audio profile, a volume, a treble level of sound, or a bass level of sound projected to the user by the accessory in the second audio mode based on the identity or the configuration of the accessory. 
 
     
     
       10. The display system of  claim 6 , wherein the accessory comprises an accessory engagement structure, and wherein the audio component comprises an audio engagement structure. 
     
     
       11. The display system of  claim 10 , wherein the audio engagement structure and the accessory engagement structure each comprise:
 one or more contacts configured to establish communication between the accessory and the audio component. 
 
     
     
       12. The display system of  claim 10 , wherein the audio engagement structure or the accessory engagement structure comprise:
 a magnet configured to encourage an aligned connection of the accessory and the audio component. 
 
     
     
       13. The display system of  claim 6 , wherein disconnecting the accessory from the audio component transitions the audio component from the second audio mode to the first audio mode. 
     
     
       14. The display system of  claim 6 , wherein the audio component further comprises:
 a seal deflectable from a closed position that blocks projection of sound through the second port to an open position that allows projection of sound through the second port. 
 
     
     
       15. The display system of  claim 14 , wherein the accessory further comprises:
 a fitting configured to move the seal from the closed position to the open position when the accessory is connected to the audio component. 
 
     
     
       16. The display system of  claim 6 , wherein the accessory is configured to be stowed in a recess defined within the wearable support, and wherein stowing the accessory within the recess inhibits projection of sound through the accessory during operation of the audio component in the first audio mode. 
     
     
       17. A head-mounted display system that facilitates image and video display, comprising:
 a wearable support configured to secure the head-mounted display system to a head of a user; 
 an audio component configured to connect to the wearable support, operate in a first audio mode where sound projects in a direction away from the head of the user, and operate in a second audio mode where sound projects in a direction toward or into an ear of the user; and 
 a controller configured to alternate operation of the head-mounted display system between a first visual mode based on operation of the audio component in the first audio mode and a second visual mode based on operation of the audio component in the second audio mode. 
 
     
     
       18. The head-mounted display system of  claim 17 , wherein the audio component includes an anchor configured for insertion into, and removal from, one or more corresponding openings in the wearable support. 
     
     
       19. The head-mounted display system of  claim 17 , wherein the first visual mode is one of a virtual reality mode, an augmented reality mode, or a mixed reality mode, and wherein the second visual mode is another of the virtual reality mode, the augmented reality mode, or the mixed reality mode. 
     
     
       20. The head-mounted display system of  claim 17 , wherein the audio component includes a magnetic attachment member configured for engagement with one or more corresponding attachment members on the wearable support.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/381,330, filed Apr. 11, 2019, entitled “Display Devices with Multimodal Audio,” which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/730,594, filed Sep. 13, 2018, entitled “Display Devices with Multimodal Audio,” the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The present disclosure relates generally to wearable display devices and systems. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to wearable head-mounted displays (HMDs) with audio components that are operable in a variety of selectable modes to allow for different user experiences. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Display devices, such as wearable HMDs, for example, typically include both video and audio systems and components to create a more complete user experience. Flexibility in audio operation is often desirable in that it allows for use of the system in a variety of settings or environments. For example, in the context of virtual reality (VR), a more immersive audio experience may be desirable (e.g., to block out or cancel external noise), whereas in the context of augmented reality (AR) or mixed reality (MR), external noise may be of less import. Additionally, in situations or settings where privacy is a concern, the ability to choose between an intra-aural experience and an extra-aural experience may be advantageous in that it gives the user options and greater control over system operation. The present disclosure addresses these concerns by providing a display system that allows the user to select between a variety of audio modes to customize their experience. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one aspect of the present disclosure, a head-mounted display system is described that includes a housing; a visual system associated with the housing to facilitate image and/or video display; a user-wearable support that is connectable to (e.g., fixedly or removably supported by) the housing; and an audio component that is pivotably connected to the support such that the audio component is movable between first and second positions. In the first position, the audio component is in general alignment with the support, and in the second position, the audio component is out of general alignment with the support. Movement of the audio component between the first and second positions allows the user to vary operability of the head-mounted display system between a first mode (i.e., an extra-aural mode), in which sound is projected through a first port in communication with a driver to a user, and a second mode (i.e., an intra-aural mode), in which sound is projected through a second port in communication with the driver to the user. More specifically, movement from the first position to the second position transitions the audio component from the first mode to the second mode, and movement from the second position to the first position transitions the audio component from the second mode to the first mode. 
     In certain embodiments, the audio component may be fixedly connected to the support via a pivot member. 
     In certain embodiments, the audio component may be extendable and retractable to allow for variation in an overall length of the audio component. 
     In certain embodiments, the audio component may include a single driver. 
     In certain embodiments, the first port may face a first direction and the second port may face a second direction that is generally opposite the first direction. 
     In certain embodiments, the audio component may include an earpiece that is positioned to receive sound through the second port. To reduce (or entirely cancel) external noise in the second mode, the earpiece may be configured for sealing engagement with the user&#39;s ear. 
     In certain embodiments, the first and second ports may be separated from one another along the longitudinal axis of the audio component. 
     In certain embodiments, the audio component may be reconfigurable between a first configuration, in which the audio component defines a first overall length, and a second configuration, in which the audio component defines a second overall length greater than the first overall length. 
     In certain embodiments, the support may define a receipt structure that is configured to receive the earpiece when the audio component is in the first (intra-aural) position to inhibit sound projection from the second (extra-aural) port. 
     In certain embodiments, the earpiece may be configured or adapted to form a seal (either partially or entirely) with the user&#39;s ear. For example, the earpiece may include (e.g., may be formed from) a deformable foam. Additionally, or alternatively, the earpiece may be adapted for reconfiguration. For example, the earpiece may be expandable and contractible, such as by inflation and deflation. 
     In certain embodiments, the display system may further include a controller (e.g., a processor, module, logic circuit, etc.) in communication with the audio component to regulate sound projection in the first and second positions. 
     In certain embodiments, the support may include a woofer that is separate from the audio component. The woofer can produce sound at a first power level in one of the first and second modes and at a second power level in the other of the first and second modes. The first power level is not equal to the second power level. 
     In another aspect of the present disclosure, a display system is described that is wearable by a user. The display system includes a support, and an audio component that is movable in relation to the support between first second positions. When in the first position, the audio component is configured to project sound in a first mode, and when in the second position, the audio component is configured to project sound in a second mode. In the first mode, the audio component projects sound in at least one of a first power level or frequency response. In the second mode, the audio component projects sound in at least one of a second power level or frequency response. 
     In certain embodiments, the support and the audio component may be configured to allow for relocation of the audio component on the support. For example, the audio component may slidably engage the support, or the audio component may be removably (e.g., magnetically) connectable to the support. Alternatively, in certain embodiments, it is envisioned that the audio component may be fixedly connected to the support. 
     In certain embodiments, the audio component may be pivotable in relation to the support (e.g., via a pivot member) such that the audio component extends in generally parallel relation to the support in the first position and extends at an angle to the support in the second position. 
     In certain embodiments, the audio component may include a telescoping section to allow for variation in a distance defined between the support and the earpiece. 
     In certain embodiments, the audio component may include a first port through which sound is projected in the first position and a second port through which sound is projected in the second position. 
     In certain embodiments, the first and second ports may be axially offset from one another along the longitudinal axis defined by the audio component. 
     In certain embodiments, the support may include a woofer that is separate from the audio component. The woofer can produce sound at a first woofer power level in one of the first and second modes and at a second woofer power level in the other of the first and second modes. The first woofer power level is not equal to the second woofer power level. 
     In another aspect of the present disclosure, a method is described for controlling audio operability in a wearable display system including an internal display panel configured to display images and/or video. The method includes moving an audio component in relation to a wearable support of the display system to transition the audio component between an extra-aural mode, in which sound is projected through a first port, and an intra-aural mode, in which sound is projected through a second port 
     In certain embodiments, moving the audio component in relation to the support may include pivoting the audio component about a fixed pivot member to move the audio component between first and second positions. In the first position, the audio component is in general alignment with the support and the audio component operates in the extra-aural mode such that sound is projected through the first port facing in a first direction. In the second position, the audio component is out of general alignment with the support and the audio component operates in the intra-aural mode such that sound is projected through the second port facing in a second direction opposite the first direction. Moving the audio component between the first and second positions thus includes varying sound projection through the first and second ports of the audio component. 
     In certain embodiments, an earpiece of the audio component may be positioned to sealingly engage a user&#39;s ear when the audio component is in the second position. 
     In certain embodiments, moving the audio component between the first and second positions includes varying sound projection through the first and second ports of the audio component, and the first port and the second port are axially offset from one another along a longitudinal axis of the audio component. 
     In certain embodiments, moving the audio component between the first and second positions causes a visual system of the wearable display system to transition between a VR mode to an AR mode or an MR mode. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a side, plan view of a wearable display system including one embodiment of an audio component in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure shown in a first position during operation in a first mode (i.e., an extra-aural mode); 
         FIG. 2  is a side, plan view of the wearable display system with the audio component shown in a second position during operation in a second mode (i.e., an intra-aural mode); 
         FIG. 3  is a longitudinal, cross-sectional view of the audio component taken along line  3 - 3  in  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 4  is a longitudinal, cross-sectional view of an alternate embodiment of the audio component including an actuator configured to reposition the audio component between the positions seen in  FIGS. 1 and 2 ; 
         FIG. 5  is a side, plan view of the wearable display system illustrating operation of the audio component in a hybrid mode that allows for both the intra-aural and extra-aural projection of sound; 
         FIG. 6  is a longitudinal, cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the audio component including a biasing member to influence positioning of the audio component; 
         FIG. 7  is a side, plan view of the wearable display system including another embodiment of the audio component shown in a first configuration; 
         FIG. 8  is a side, plan view of the audio component shown in a second (elongated) configuration; 
         FIG. 9  is a longitudinal, cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the audio component shown with a removable accessory; 
         FIG. 10  is a longitudinal, cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the audio component including a seal shown with an alternate embodiment of the removable accessory prior to connection of the accessory; 
         FIG. 11  is a longitudinal, cross-sectional view of the audio component and the accessory seen in  FIG. 10  after connection of the accessory; 
         FIG. 12  is a side, plan view of the wearable display system including another embodiment of the audio component shown with an alternate embodiment of a wearable support including a linear track; 
         FIG. 13  is a side, plan view of the wearable display system including an alternate embodiment of the wearable support seen in  FIG. 12  including a track having a curved (arcuate) portion; 
         FIG. 14  is a longitudinal, cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the audio component including an anchor; 
         FIG. 15  is a side, plan view of an alternate embodiment of the wearable support for use with the audio component seen in  FIG. 14 ; 
         FIG. 16  is a longitudinal, cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the audio component including a magnetic attachment member; and 
         FIGS. 17 and 18  are side, plan views of alternate embodiments of the wearable support for use with the audio component seen in  FIG. 16 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Display systems according to the present disclosure generally include a wearable support (e.g., a head strap, a headband, temples, etc.), a visual system to display images and/or video, and an audio component to add sound to the user experience. For example, the visual system may include a dock, brace, or other such support to facilitate the connection of a personal electronic device (e.g., a smartphone), or an internal display panel (e.g., an LED panel, an OLED panel, a uOLED panel, etc.). The audio component is (fixedly or releasably) connectable to (or otherwise supported by) the wearable support and is operable in a variety of modes that are selectable by the user to based upon the environment, the setting, or the desired experience. For example, the user may select between first and second modes (i.e., extra-aural and intra-aural modes) based upon a particular visual experience, whether it be virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), mixed reality (MR), etc. 
     In the intra-aural mode, sound is projected through an earpiece and directly into the user&#39;s ear. Operation in the intra-aural mode thus allows for a more immersive audio experience, increased privacy, etc., such as, for example, in the context of VR use. To reduce (or entirely eliminate) external noise in the intra-aural mode, it is envisioned that the audio component may include noise-cancelling capabilities. For example, the earpiece, which may be adapted for either in-ear or on-ear use, may be configured to form a seal with the user&#39;s ear, either partially or entirely. To facilitate the formation of such a seal, it is envisioned that the earpiece may be deformable, expandable, etc. By contrast, in the extra-aural mode, sound is projected into an environment proximate to an ear of the user (in a direction external to a head or temple of the user) in a manner that avoids covering or otherwise obstructing the ear of the user, such as, for example, in the context of AR or MR use. The extra-aural mode thus allows delivered sound to blend with ambient sound from the environment surrounding the user, the ambient sound including the user&#39;s own voice, which can be beneficial during AR or MR use. 
     During operation in the intra-aural and extra-aural modes, sound is projected through a variety of distinct ports to direct sound to an intended location. It is envisioned that the audio component and/or the wearable support may include a mechanism or other such member to reduce (or eliminate) the projection of sound through one port or the other. For example, the wearable support may include a mating structure, such as a recess or a plug, that mates/fits with the earpiece to inhibit (or entirely prevent) the projection of sound through the earpiece during operation in the extra-aural mode. 
     The present disclosure allows for selection between the intra-aural and extra-aural modes in a variety of ways. For example, in one embodiment, the audio component can be pivoted in relation to the wearable support between first and second positions, either manually or automatically (e.g., through the use of a motor or other such suitable mechanism). Additionally, or alternatively, the user can alternate between modes by connecting and disconnecting an accessory (such as an earpiece) to the audio component, or by using a selector switch or button. 
     To accommodate for variation in user anatomy, in certain embodiments, the audio component may be reconfigurable or repositionable. For example, it is envisioned that the audio component may include a telescoping section that allows for variation in the overall length of the audio component, and/or that the audio component may be movable in relation to the wearable support to allow the user to position the audio component in a particular location or orientation. For example, the audio component may be slidable in relation to the wearable support, or the audio component may be removable (detachable) and relocatable. To facilitate such removal and relocation, the audio component may be configured for connection to the wearable support in a variety of locations via a mechanical interface, magnetic connection, etc. 
     Throughout the present disclosure, a physical environment refers to a physical world that people can sense and/or interact with without aid of electronic systems. Physical environments, such as a physical park, include physical articles, such as physical trees, physical buildings, and physical people. People can directly sense and/or interact with the physical environment, such as through sight, touch, hearing, taste, and smell. 
     In contrast, a computer-generated reality (CGR) environment refers to a wholly or partially simulated environment that people sense and/or interact with via an electronic system. In CGR, a subset of a person&#39;s physical motions, or representations thereof, are tracked, and, in response, one or more characteristics of one or more virtual objects simulated in the CGR environment are adjusted in a manner that comports with at least one law of physics. For example, a CGR system may detect a person&#39;s head turning and, in response, adjust graphical content and an acoustic field presented to the person in a manner similar to how such views and sounds would change in a physical environment. In some situations (e.g., for accessibility reasons), adjustments to characteristic(s) of virtual object(s) in a CGR environment may be made in response to representations of physical motions (e.g., vocal commands). 
     A person may sense and/or interact with a CGR object using any one of their senses, including sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell. For example, a person may sense and/or interact with audio objects that create 3D or spatial audio environment that provides the perception of point audio sources in 3D space. In another example, audio objects may enable audio transparency, which selectively incorporates ambient sounds from the physical environment with or without computer-generated audio. In some CGR environments, a person may sense and/or interact only with audio objects. Examples of CGR include virtual reality and mixed reality. 
     A virtual reality (VR) environment refers to a simulated environment that is designed to be based entirely on computer-generated sensory inputs for one or more senses. A VR environment comprises a plurality of virtual objects with which a person may sense and/or interact. For example, computer-generated imagery of trees, buildings, and avatars representing people are examples of virtual objects. A person may sense and/or interact with virtual objects in the VR environment through a simulation of the person&#39;s presence within the computer-generated environment, and/or through a simulation of a subset of the person&#39;s physical movements within the computer-generated environment. 
     In contrast to a VR environment, which is designed to be based entirely on computer-generated sensory inputs, a mixed reality (MR) environment refers to a simulated environment that is designed to incorporate sensory inputs from the physical environment, or a representation thereof, in addition to including computer-generated sensory inputs (e.g., virtual objects). On a virtuality continuum, a mixed reality environment is anywhere between, but not including, a wholly physical environment at one end and virtual reality environment at the other end. 
     In some MR environments, computer-generated sensory inputs may respond to changes in sensory inputs from the physical environment. Also, some electronic systems for presenting an MR environment may track location and/or orientation with respect to the physical environment to enable virtual objects to interact with real objects (that is, physical articles from the physical environment or representations thereof). For example, a system may account for movements so that a virtual tree appears stationery with respect to the physical ground. Examples of mixed realities include augmented reality and augmented virtuality. 
     An augmented reality (AR) environment refers to a simulated environment in which one or more virtual objects are superimposed over a physical environment, or a representation thereof. For example, an electronic system for presenting an AR environment may have a transparent or translucent display through which a person may directly view the physical environment. The system may be configured to present virtual objects on the transparent or translucent display, so that a person, using the system, perceives the virtual objects superimposed over the physical environment. Alternatively, a system may have an opaque display and one or more imaging sensors that capture images or video of the physical environment, which are representations of the physical environment. The system composites the images or video with virtual objects, and presents the composition on the opaque display. A person, using the system, indirectly views the physical environment by way of the images or video of the physical environment, and perceives the virtual objects superimposed over the physical environment. As used herein, a video of the physical environment shown on an opaque display is called “pass-through video,” meaning a system uses one or more image sensor(s) to capture images of the physical environment, and uses those images in presenting the AR environment on the opaque display. Further alternatively, a system may have a projection system that projects virtual objects into the physical environment, for example, as a hologram or on a physical surface, so that a person, using the system, perceives the virtual objects superimposed over the physical environment. 
     An augmented reality environment also refers to a simulated environment in which a representation of a physical environment is transformed by computer-generated sensory information. For example, in providing pass-through video, a system may transform one or more sensor images to impose a select perspective (e.g., viewpoint) different than the perspective captured by the imaging sensors. As another example, a representation of a physical environment may be transformed by graphically modifying (e.g., enlarging) portions thereof, such that the modified portion may be representative but not photorealistic versions of the originally captured images. As a further example, a representation of a physical environment may be transformed by graphically eliminating or obfuscating portions thereof. 
     An augmented virtuality (AV) environment refers to a simulated environment in which a virtual or computer generated environment incorporates one or more sensory inputs from the physical environment. The sensory inputs may be representations of one or more characteristics of the physical environment. For example, an AV park may have virtual trees and virtual buildings, but people with faces photorealistically reproduced from images taken of physical people. As another example, a virtual object may adopt a shape or color of a physical article imaged by one or more imaging sensors. As a further example, a virtual object may adopt shadows consistent with the position of the sun in the physical environment. 
     There are many different types of electronic systems that enable a person to sense and/or interact with various CGR environments. Examples include head mounted systems, projection-based systems, heads-up displays (HUDs), vehicle windshields having integrated display capability, windows having integrated display capability, displays formed as lenses designed to be placed on a person&#39;s eyes (e.g., similar to contact lenses), headphones/earphones, speaker arrays, input systems (e.g., wearable or handheld controllers with or without haptic feedback), smartphones, tablets, and desktop/laptop computers. A head mounted system may have one or more speaker(s) and an integrated opaque display. Alternatively, a head mounted system may be configured to accept an external opaque display (e.g., a smartphone). The head mounted system may incorporate one or more imaging sensors to capture images or video of the physical environment, and/or one or more microphones to capture audio of the physical environment. Rather than an opaque display, a head mounted system may have a transparent or translucent display. The transparent or translucent display may have a medium through which light representative of images is directed to a person&#39;s eyes. The display may 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&#39;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. 
       FIGS. 1 and 2  generally illustrate one embodiment of a display system, which is identified by the reference character  100 . The display system  100  is configured as an HMD  102  and, as such, includes one or more supports  104  that are configured to be worn by a user during use of the display system  100  (i.e., such that the display system  100  is a wearable display system). Although illustrated as including a single head strap  106  in  FIG. 1 , the configuration of the wearable support(s)  104  may be varied in alternate embodiments. For example, the wearable support(s)  104  may include temples (not shown) such that the HMD  102  is supported by the user&#39;s ears. 
     The display system  100  includes a housing  108  that accommodates the internal components of the display system  100  and may be formed using any appropriate method of manufacture and material(s). For example, the housing  108  may be formed through 3-D printing, injection molding, etc., and may include (e.g., may be formed from) materials such as plastics (ABS, PC, etc.), polymers, metallic materials, etc., either individually or in combination. 
     The display system  100  offers both visual capabilities (e.g., the display of images, video, etc.) and audio capabilities through the inclusion of both a visual system  110  and an audio component  112 . In one embodiment, illustrated throughout the figures, the visual system  110  includes an optical element  114  (e.g., a lens  116 ) and a display module  118  having a display panel  120 , which may be any panel suitable for the display of images, video, etc., such as, for example, a uOLED panel, an OLED panel, an LED panel, or the like. In certain embodiments, it is envisioned that the display module  118  (and/or the optical element  114 ) may be repositionable in relation to the housing  108  to permit adjustments in focus; the correction of field-of-view, alignment, or distortion issues; improvements in the accommodation of content; etc. Alternatively, it is envisioned that the visual system  110  itself may be devoid of the display panel  120 , and instead, may include a dock, brace, or other such support (not shown) that is configured to facilitate the connection of a separate display panel  120  to the display system  100 . For example, it is envisioned that the visual system  110  may be configured to removably receive a personal electronic device (e.g., a cell phone) to permit connection of the personal electronic device to the display system  100  and, thus, the display of images, video, etc. through the personal electronic device. 
     With reference now to  FIG. 3  as well, the audio component  112  will be discussed. To produce sound, the audio component  112  incorporates a driver unit  122 , which may include any components suitable for this intended purpose, such as, for example, magnets, diaphragms, voice coils, single speakers, dual speakers (e.g., woofer and tweeter), etc. In various embodiments of the display system  100 , it is envisioned that the scale of the driver unit  122  may be altered to achieve any desirable range of sound across a variety of frequencies. The audio component  112  covers a wide spectrum in terms of functionality and is operable in a variety of modes (discussed hereinbelow) to support different user experiences, such as, for example, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), mixed reality (MR), etc. 
     The driver unit  122  is in communication with (e.g., is acoustically coupled to) a series of audio ports  324  that focus sound. In the particular embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 1-3 , for example, the audio component  112  includes a first (extra-aural) port  324   A  and a second (intra-aural) port  324   B  that is spaced from the first port  324   A  along a longitudinal axis Y ( FIG. 3 ) defined by the audio component  112  (i.e., an axis that extends along the length of the audio component  112 ) such that the ports  324   A ,  324   B  are axially offset. The ports  324   A ,  324   B  are oriented in generally opposite directions such that the port  324   A  faces away from a head or temple of a user and the port  324   B  faces towards or into an ear of the user when the display system  100  is positioned on a head of a user. Although illustrated as facing in diametrically opposite directions in this example, the particular orientation of the port  324   A  and/or the port  324   B  may be varied in alternate embodiments to achieve desirable emission or directivity patterns that best direct sound to an ear of the user based on a physical location of the ports  324   A ,  324   B . For example, the ports  324   A ,  324   B  may face directions that extend along intersecting axes or may face slightly different directions partially rotated about a longitudinal axis (e.g. longitudinal axis Y). 
     During operation in a first, extra-aural mode, sound is produced by the driver unit  122  and is communicated through an extra-aural path  326 A to the port  324   A  which can be located slightly above and rearward of a user&#39;s ear canal, whereas during operation in a second, intra-aural mode, sound is communicated through an intra-aural path  326 B to the port  324   B  and into the user&#39;s ear canal, either directly through the port  324   B  or through an earpiece  128 , which may be either fixedly or removably connected to the audio component  112  and placed at least partially within the ear canal of the user. The user can select operation in either the extra-aural mode or the intra-aural mode in a variety of ways (discussed below) based upon the desired experience. For example, during a VR experience or VR mode where the visual system  110  operates in VR, a user may select the intra-aural mode to allow for a more immersive, private audio experience in which sound can be delivered at higher volume levels with lower bass levels (as compared to the extra-aural mode), whereas during an AR or MR experience or an AR or MR mode where the visual system  110  operates in AR or MR, a user may select the extra-aural mode to allow for a more transparent audio experience in a setting where privacy is of less concern. For example, in the extra-aural mode, the user can experience sound without anything covering or obstructing an ear and/or ear canal, providing a sense of disparate spatial locations for audio sources. In the intra-aural mode, the user can sense (more so than in the extra-aural mode) that sound is being delivered artificially based on a feeling of the audio component  112  being present against an ear of the user. Being able to feel or sense the presence of the audio component  112  may reduce a sensation of sound spatialization (i.e., a perception that sound originates from one or more locations away or apart from the user) that is achieved with the audio experience of the intra-aural mode. 
     Depending upon the particular configuration of the driver unit  122 , the ports  324   A ,  324   B , etc., it is envisioned that sonic properties of delivered sound (e.g., bass, treble, etc.) may be varied between modes. For example, the extra-aural mode may project a higher overall volume with a boosted bass content when compared to the intra-aural mode. The intra-aural mode and the extra-aural mode can have different sound output power levels (e.g., sound levels), frequency responses (i.e., equalization levels), and directivity patterns of sound emission. 
     For example, the intra-aural mode can employ a lower sound output power level than the extra-aural mode. This difference accounts for differing sound emission locations, as sound emission in the intra-aural mode occurs closer to or within an ear canal of the user, and sound emission in the extra-aural mode occurs in an environment proximate to an outer surface of an ear or temple of the user where a measurable quantity of the emitted sound can dissipate into the environment. Low-frequency sound emissions are also less audible to the user in the extra-aural mode. 
     In another example, the intra-aural mode and the extra-aural mode can have different frequency responses or equalization levels. The extra-aural mode can employ an equalization curve that reduces and/or levels off amplitude (e.g., gain) at higher frequencies beyond a predetermined frequency cut-off, for example, to allow low frequencies to be balanced within overall sound that reaches a user. The intra-aural mode can employ an equalization curve that is flatter than the equalization curve used in the extra-aural mode in order to account for a flatter transfer function between the intra-aural driver and an eardrum of the user. Other differences in frequency response or equalization levels between the intra-aural mode and the extra-aural mode are also possible. 
     In another example, the wearable support  104  can include a larger speaker (e.g., a woofer, not shown) that is disposed in a separate location from the audio component  112 . The larger speaker can be configured to produce sound at a predetermined power level when the audio component  112  is in the extra-aural mode and to be silent or produce sound at a lower volume or lower power level when the audio component  112  is in the intra-aural mode. The audio component  112  can include also include a smaller speaker (e.g., a tweeter, not shown) that produces sound within treble frequencies (e.g., at a first power level) when the audio component  112  is in the extra-aural mode (e.g., to complement sound produced by the woofer). The smaller speaker can also be configured to produce sound over a full range of frequencies (e.g., at a second power level) when the audio component  112  is in the intra-aural mode (e.g., to compensate for the lower volume or silent woofer). Producing sound using only the smaller, audio-component-based speaker is well suited to the more power-efficient context of intra-aural delivery. Other combinations of smaller speaker (e.g., tweeter) and larger speaker (e.g., woofer) operation within the intra-aural and extra-aural modes are also possible. 
     To vary operability of the audio component  112  between the extra-aural mode and the intra-aural mode, the audio component  112  is reoriented from the (first) position seen in  FIG. 1  to the (second) position seen in  FIG. 2 . In the extra-aural mode ( FIG. 1 ), the audio component  112  is in general alignment with the wearable support(s)  104  and in the intra-aural mode, the audio component  112  is out of general alignment with the wearable support(s)  104 . More specifically, in the first position (during use in the extra-aural mode), the audio component  112  may be oriented such that the longitudinal axis Y of the audio component  112  is in generally parallel relation to a longitudinal axis X of the head strap  106 , as seen in  FIG. 1 , whereas in the second position (during use in the intra-aural mode), the audio component  112  may be oriented such that the longitudinal axis Y of the audio component is at an angle α to the longitudinal axis X of the head strap  106 . For example, it is envisioned that the angle α may lie substantially within the range of approximately 45° to approximately 135°, although values outside this range would not be beyond the scope of the present disclosure. In various embodiments, as discussed hereinbelow, it is envisioned that the audio component  112  may be either fixedly or removably connected to the wearable support(s)  104  to allow for wide variation in positioning of the audio component  112  to accommodate for differences in user size, anatomy, preference, etc. 
     Although the longitudinal axes X, Y are illustrated as being central longitudinal axes in the embodiment seen in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , in alternate embodiments, depending on the particular configuration of the audio component  112  and the wearable support(s)  104 , it is envisioned that the axes X, Y may be off center. For example, in embodiments including a wearable support(s)  104  having an irregular and/or non-linear shape, the axis X may extend through the center of mass of the wearable support(s)  104 , through central points at opposing ends of the wearable support(s)  104 , etc. 
     In the embodiment seen in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the audio component  112  is fixedly connected to the wearable support(s)  104  via a pivot member  130  (e.g., a screw, pin, rivet, etc.) that allows the audio component  112  to move through an arcuate range of motion. It should be appreciated, however, that in alternate embodiments of the disclosure, depending upon the particular architecture of the display system  100 , the audio component  112  may be secured in an alternate location. For example, an embodiment in which the audio component  112  is secured to the housing  108  would not be beyond the scope of the present disclosure. 
     The pivot member  130  may be adapted and positioned to facilitate the transmission of electrical signals during use of the display system  100 . For example, the pivot member  130  may include one or more electrical contacts (not shown) connectable to corresponding contacts on the wearable support(s)  104 , the housing  108 , etc., to establish electrical communication between the audio component  112  and the remainder of the display system  100  (e.g., the visual system  110 ). In such embodiments, it is envisioned that communication may be conveyed magnetically, optically, or via conduction, for example. 
     It is envisioned that the audio component  112  may be manually reoriented by the user. In such embodiments, the user can simply apply a force to the audio component  112  to move the audio component  112  from the position seen in  FIG. 1  into the position seen in  FIG. 2 , thereby moving the earpiece  128  (and the port  324   B ) into general alignment with the user&#39;s ear. To bias the audio component  112  towards one position or the other, the display system  100  may include a biasing member  132  ( FIG. 3 ). Although shown as including a spring  134  that is positioned about the pivot member  130  in the illustrated embodiment, it should be appreciated that the specific location, orientation, and configuration of the biasing member  132  can be varied in alternate embodiments of the disclosure. For example, in embodiments where the audio component  112  is biased towards the first position ( FIG. 1 ), the user can simply apply a manual force to the audio component  112  to overcome the bias of the biasing member  132  in order to move the audio component  112  into the second position seen in  FIG. 2 , after which the position of the audio component  112  may be maintained via actuation of a locking member  136  ( FIGS. 1-3 ), such as a spring-loaded detent, lever, etc., until released by the user. 
     In certain embodiments, it is envisioned that the display system  100  may include an actuator  438  ( FIG. 4 ), such as a motor or other such mechanism, that is configured and positioned to move the audio component  112  between the first and second positions seen in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , respectively. Although shown as being integrated into the audio component  112  in the embodiment seen in  FIG. 4 , the particular location of the actuator  438  may be varied in alternate embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the actuator  438  may be a component of (or otherwise incorporated into) the wearable support(s)  104 , the housing  108 , etc. In such embodiments, the actuator  438  may be activated by the depression of a button  140  (or other such selector switch), which may be located on the audio component  112 , as seen in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , to cause the actuator  438  to apply a force to the audio component  112  and thereby move the audio component  112  between the first and second positions. 
     To vary operation between the extra-aural and intra-aural modes with the position of the audio component  112 , the display system  100  may include any suitable controller  342  (e.g., a processor, module, logic circuit, etc.) capable of ascertaining the particular orientation of the audio component  112 . More specifically, as the audio component  112  is moved from the first position ( FIG. 1 ) into the second position ( FIG. 2 ) (i.e., from extra-aural operability to intra-aural operability), the controller  342  may detect such movement and redirect sound from the port  324   A  to the port  324   B  in the manner described herein, and as the audio component  112  is moved from the second position ( FIG. 2 ) into the first position ( FIG. 1 ) (i.e., from intra-aural operability to extra-aural operability), the controller  342  may detect such movement and redirect sound from the port  324   B  to the port  324   A  in the manner described herein. 
     Although discussed hereinabove as being movable between two discrete positions, and as being operable in either an intra-aural mode or an extra-aural mode, in alternate embodiments of the disclosure, it is envisioned that the audio component  112  may be operable in a hybrid mode that may allow for both the intra-aural and extra-aural projection of sound. For example, the audio component  112  may be positioned as illustrated in  FIG. 5 , and sound may be projected through either port  324   A  ( FIGS. 3, 6 ), port  324   B , or both ports  324   A  and  324   B . 
     During use of the audio component  112 , sound may be isolated to ensure its projection through the proper port  324 . More specifically, during operation in the intra-aural mode, sound projection through the port  324   A  ( FIG. 3 ) may be inhibited (or entirely prevented) by obscuring/blocking the port  324   A , and during operation in the extra-aural mode, sound projection through the port  324   B  may be inhibited (or entirely prevented) by obscuring/blocking the port  324   B . For example, with reference to  FIGS. 3 and 6 , it is envisioned that sound projection through the port  324   A  may be regulated through the use of a repositionable gate  344  that is movable between a first position ( FIG. 3 ) and a second position ( FIG. 6 ). In the first position (i.e., when the audio component  112  is in the extra-aural mode), the gate  344  is positioned to allow sound to exit the port  324   A  via the path  326 A. However, in the second position (i.e., when the audio component  112  is in the intra-aural mode), the gate  344  is positioned to block sound transmission through the port  324   A . To further facilitate sound transmission in the intended manner, the audio component  112  may include one or more insulators  346 , as seen in  FIGS. 3  and  6 , to isolate and direct sound communication. 
     It is envisioned that the gate  344  and the audio component  112  may be moved in unison. More specifically, as the audio component  112  moves from the position seen in  FIG. 1  to the position seen in  FIG. 2 , the gate  344  may be caused to move (e.g., slide) from the position seen in  FIG. 3  to the position seen in  FIG. 6 , and as the audio component  112  moves from the position seen in  FIG. 2  to the position seen in  FIG. 1 , the gate  344  may be caused to move (e.g., slide) from the position seen in  FIG. 6  to the position seen in  FIG. 3 . 
     Movement of the gate  344  may be accomplished through any suitable mechanism, including, for example, a gear assembly, a rack and pinion assembly, a motor, one or more internal slidable members and bearing surfaces, etc. In an alternate embodiment, it is envisioned that movement of the audio component  112  and movement of the gate  344  may be independent. For example, the gate  344  may be manually repositionable (e.g., slidable) by the user via an external tactile member (not shown) or may be acted upon by a motor (not shown) or other such actuator. 
     To regulate sound projection through the port  324   B  and the earpiece  128 , with reference again to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , during use in the extra-aural mode, the earpiece  128  is positionable within a recess  148  that is configured to block sound projection through the earpiece  128 . Although shown as being included on the wearable support(s)  104  in the illustrated embodiment, the particular location of the recess  148  may be varied in alternate embodiments depending, for example, on the particular system architecture, component dimensions, etc. Additionally, or alternatively, the display system  100  may include a plug  150  ( FIGS. 1, 2 ) that extends outwardly from the display system  100  (e.g., from the wearable support(s)  104 ) for insertion into the audio component  112  (e.g., into the earpiece  128 ) to further assist in blocking sound projection. 
     The inclusion of the gate  344  ( FIGS. 3, 6 ) and the recess  148  (and/or the plug  150 ) ( FIGS. 1, 2 ) allows for both ports  324   A ,  324   B  to be active during operation of the audio component  112  regardless of whether the audio component  112  is being used in the extra-aural mode or the intra-aural mode, thus simplifying the overall design of the audio component  112 . To allow for volume modulation between modes, it is envisioned that the controller  342  ( FIG. 3 ) may be in communication with the driver unit  122  (e.g., to vary power supplied to the driver unit  122 ). For example, the controller  342  may be configured to automatically increase the sound volume when the audio component  112  is in the extra-aural mode and decrease the sound volume when the audio component  112  is in the intra-aural mode. To synchronize video and audio operation, the controller  342  may also be adapted for communication with the visual system  110  ( FIGS. 1, 2 ) to alternate operation of the visual system  110  between VR, AR, and/or MR modes, for example, based on the position of the audio component  112 . More specifically, as the audio component  112  is moved from the (first) position ( FIG. 1 ) into the (second) position ( FIG. 2 ), the controller  342  may output a signal to vary operation of the visual system  110  from an AR or MR mode into a VR mode, and as the audio component  112  is moved from the (second) position ( FIG. 2 ) into the (first) position ( FIG. 1 ), the controller  342  may output a signal to vary operation of the visual system  110  from a VR mode into an AR or MR mode. 
     With reference now to  FIGS. 1-6 , general operation of the display system  100  will be discussed. Following placement of the display system  100  as desired, the user elects whether to operate the display system  100  in the extra-aural mode or the intra-aural mode (e.g., based upon the desired visual experience), and the audio component  112  is oriented accordingly. For example, when a VR visual experience is desired, the user can elect operation in the intra-aural mode, and the audio component  112  can be positioned as illustrated in  FIG. 2 . By contrast, when an AR or MR visual experience is desired, for example, the user can elect operation in the extra-aural mode, and the audio component  112  can be positioned as illustrated in  FIG. 1 . To switch between the extra-aural and intra-aural modes, a force is applied to the audio component  112 , either manually by the user or via the actuator  438  ( FIG. 4 ). 
     When operating in the extra-aural mode, the earpiece  128  ( FIGS. 1-3 ) may be positioned within the recess  148  ( FIGS. 1, 2 ) to block sound projection therethrough such that sound is projected exclusively through the port  324   A  via the path  326 A ( FIG. 3 ). To transition from the extra-aural mode to the intra-aural mode, the earpiece  128  can be removed from the recess  148  to allow for the projection of sound therethrough, and the audio component  112  can be moved into the position seen in  FIG. 2 . During movement from the position seen in  FIG. 1  to the position seen in  FIG. 2 , as discussed above, the gate  344  ( FIGS. 3, 6 ) may be moved into the second position ( FIG. 6 ) to block sound transmission through the port  324   A  such that sound is projected through the earpiece  128  via the intra-aural path  326 B. 
     To return the audio component to the extra-aural mode, the earpiece  128  can again be positioned in the recess  148  ( FIGS. 1, 2 ), and the audio component  112  can be moved into the position seen in  FIG. 1 , during which adjustments the gate  344  ( FIGS. 3, 6 ) may be moved into the second position ( FIG. 3 ) to allow for sound transmission through the port  324   A . 
     During intra-aural operation of the audio component  112 , increased noise-cancelling may be desirable to create a more immersive user experience. Noise-cancelling may be facilitated, for example, by the insulators  346 , which are positioned to inhibit (or entirely prevent) sound projection by isolating the port  324   A  during use in the intra-aural mode. The noise-cancelling capabilities of the audio component  112  may also be augmented by the configuration and/or construction of the earpiece  128 . More specifically, the earpiece  128  may be deformable or reconfigurable to create a more customized fit or seal with the user&#39;s ear to thereby block out ambient noise. For example, the earpiece  128  may include (e.g., may be formed from) one or more resiliently deformable materials such as foam, silicone, gel, etc. Additionally, or alternatively, it is envisioned that the earpiece  128  may be expandable and contractible. For example, as seen in  FIG. 3 , the audio component  112  may include an inflation system  352  that utilizes a piston  354 , or other such structure, to move air (or other suitable fluid) into and out of the earpiece  128  to cause expansion and contraction as desired, as illustrated in  FIG. 3 . 
     With reference now to  FIGS. 7-17 , alternate embodiments of the presently disclosed audio component will be discussed. Each embodiment discussed hereinbelow is substantially similar in both structure and operation to the aforedescribed audio component  112 , and, accordingly, will be discussed only with respect to any differences therefrom. 
       FIGS. 7 and 8  illustrate an embodiment of the audio component (identified by the reference character  712 ) that includes a first portion  756  and a second portion  758  that is movable in relation to the first portion  756 . The second portion  758  includes a telescoping section  860  that extends into a channel  862  defined in the first portion  756  to allow for reconfiguration of the audio component  712  between a first configuration ( FIG. 7 ), in which the audio component  712  defines a first overall length Li, and a second (elongated) configuration ( FIG. 8 ), in which the audio component defines a second, greater overall length La. The telescoping section  860  thus allows for variation in the overall length L of the audio component  712  and the distance D defined between the earpiece  128  and the wearable support(s)  104  (e.g., the point to which the audio component  712  is connected to the wearable support(s)  104 , such as the pivot member  130 ) to allow for increased flexibility and precision in the orientation of the earpiece  128 . 
     To vary the length L of the audio component  712 , a force is applied to the second portion  758 , either manually by the user (i.e., the user can simply pull and push on the second portion  758 ) or by an integrated actuator  864  (e.g., a motor or other such mechanism). More specifically, the application of a force in the direction indicated by arrow  1  ( FIG. 8 ) causes an increase in the overall length L of the audio component  712  via withdrawal of the telescoping section  860  from the channel  862 , and the application of a force in the direction indicated by arrow  2  ( FIG. 8 ) causes a reduction in the overall length L of the audio component  712  via insertion of the telescoping section  860  into the channel  862 . 
     It is envisioned that the overall length L of the audio component  712  may be varied in predetermined increments. For example, as seen in  FIG. 8 , the telescoping section  860  may include an interrupted surface  866  defining a series of detents  868 , projections, ratcheting teeth, or the like that are configured for contact with a corresponding engagement member  870  on the first portion  756 , such as a spring-biased lever  872 . Alternatively, it is envisioned that the interrupted surface  866  may be omitted to allow for more precise variation in the overall length L of the audio component. In such embodiments, the telescoping section  860  and the channel  862  may be dimensioned in tight tolerance, or configured for engagement in an interference fit, to allow the relative positions of the respective first and second portions  756 ,  758  to be maintained in the absence of an external force. 
       FIG. 9  illustrates another embodiment of the audio component, which is identified by the reference character  912 . The audio component  912  includes one or more engagement structures  974  that are configured for releasable connection to corresponding engagement structure(s)  976  included on an accessory  978 , which may be configured for either in-ear use (e.g., as an earbud) or on-ear use (e.g., as a headphone or the like). The engagement structures  974 ,  976  may include any member(s) or mechanism(s) suitable for the intended purpose of permitting releasable connection of the accessory  978  to the audio component  912 . For example, in the particular embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 9 , the engagement structures  974 ,  976  include one or more corresponding magnets  980 ,  982 . It is envisioned that the engagement structures  974 ,  976  and the magnets  980 ,  982  may be positioned to encourage proper alignment of the accessory  978  and the audio component  912 , and relative positioning of the accessory  978  and the audio component  912  in a predetermined orientation. For example, as seen in  FIG. 9 , the magnets  982  may project outwardly from an outer surface  984  of the accessory  978  to facilitate receipt within corresponding recesses  986  defined by the audio component  912  and connection to the magnets  980 . 
     Although shown as exclusively including magnets  980 ,  982  in the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 9 , it should be appreciated that the connection between the engagement structures  974 ,  976  may be enhanced by (or replaced with) mechanical members, interlocks, deflectable tabs, etc., in alternate embodiments of the disclosure. It is further envisioned that the audio component  912  and the accessory  978  may include corresponding electrical contacts  988 ,  990  to establish electrical communication therebetween. Although shown as being associated with the engagement structures  974 ,  976  (e.g., the magnets  980 ,  982 ) in the embodiment seen in  FIG. 9 , it should be appreciated that the specific location of the electrical contacts  988 ,  990  may be varied in alternate embodiments of the disclosure. For example, the electrical contacts  990  may instead be positioned on a body  992  of the accessory  978 , and the electrical contacts  988  may be positioned in corresponding locations on the audio component  912  (e.g., on an outer surface  994  of the audio component  912 ). 
     It is envisioned that the engagement structures  974 ,  976  included on the audio component  912  and the accessory  978  may be standardized to allow for interchangeability between a variety of accessories  978 , such as, for example, accessories  978  that differ in style, size, etc. In such embodiments, it is envisioned that the audio component  912  may be adapted to detect the identity, configuration, etc., of the accessory  978  upon connection, such as through the communication of an electrical signal from the accessory  978  that can be processed by the controller  342  ( FIG. 3 ) to recognize and control the audio component  912  accordingly. For example, depending upon the particular accessory  978  that is connected to the audio component  912 , the audio profile, volume, bass, etc., may be automatically varied. 
     In certain embodiments, it is envisioned that the audio component  912  may include a deflectable seal  1096  (or other such member) positioned to block the projection of sound through the port  324   B  until such time that the accessory  978  is connected, as seen in  FIGS. 10 and 11 . For example, the seal  1096  may be normally biased towards a closed position ( FIG. 10 ) in the absence of the accessory  978 , during which absence the audio component  912  is operable in the extra-aural mode and sound is projected along the extra-aural path  326 A and through the port  324   A . Upon connection of the accessory  978 , however, a fitting  1098  included on the accessory  978  is caused to engage, deform, deflect, or otherwise move the seal  1096  from the closed position seen in  FIG. 10  into the open position seen in  FIG. 11  to allow sound to pass through the seal  1096  and the port  324   B  via the intra-aural path  326 B to enter the accessory  978  for communication to the user. In such embodiments, it is envisioned that the configuration of the recess  148  ( FIGS. 1, 2 ) in the wearable support(s)  104  may be altered to accommodate the audio component  912  (and/or the accessory  978 ) in the extra-aural mode, or that the recess  148  may be omitted entirely. 
     Upon establishing an electrical connection between the accessory  978  and the audio component  912 , such as through the electrical contacts  988 ,  990  ( FIG. 9 ), a signal may be generated and processed (e.g., by the controller  342  ( FIG. 3 )) to automatically transition the audio component from the extra-aural mode to the intra-aural mode. More specifically, upon connection of the accessory  978 , the gate  344  may be moved from the first position ( FIGS. 9, 10 ) into the second position ( FIG. 11 ) to close off the extra-aural path  326 A and block sound projection through the port  324   A . 
     With reference now to  FIGS. 12-17  in particular, whereas the audio component  112  discussed above with respect to  FIGS. 1-6  is described as being fixedly connected to the wearable support(s)  104  (e.g., via the pivot member  130  seen in  FIGS. 1, 2 ), each of the embodiments discussed hereinbelow is movable in relation to the wearable support(s)  104  in one or more additional degrees of freedom to add flexibility to the overall configuration of the display system  100  ( FIGS. 1, 2 ) in the interests of accommodating a greater number of users and/or creating a more comfortable, customizable user experience. Although discussed in connection with the wearable support(s)  104  below, it should be appreciated that the point of connection with the display system  100  may be varied in alternate embodiments of the disclosure (e.g., depending upon the particular architecture employed, the intended use of the display system  100 , etc.). An embodiment in which the point of connection is on the housing  108 , for instance, would also be within the scope of the present disclosure. 
       FIGS. 12 and 13  illustrate an embodiment of the audio component identified by the reference character  1212 . The audio component  1212  is adapted for slidable movement in relation to the wearable support(s)  104 . For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the audio component  1212  is movable through a track  1300  defined by the wearable support(s)  104 . Although shown as being generally linear in configuration in  FIG. 12 , in alternate embodiments, the track  1300  may include one or more curved (arcuate) portions  1302  to allow for movement along multiple axes X, Y, as seen in  FIG. 13 . 
     To facilitate movement along the track  1300 , it is envisioned that the audio component  1212  may include any suitable structure or mechanism. For example, the audio component  1212  may include a slide  1204  (e.g., a carriage, roller, bearing, wheel, etc.). In such embodiments, it is envisioned that the slide  1204  may include (or otherwise support) the pivot member  130  to allow for both pivotable and slidable movement of the audio component  1212  in relation to the wearable support(s)  104 . 
     With reference now to  FIGS. 14 and 15 , an additional embodiment of the audio component, which is identified by the reference character  1412 , will be discussed in connection with an alternate embodiment of the wearable support(s), which is identified by the reference character  1414 . The audio component  1412  includes an anchor  1416  that is configured for insertion into, and removal from, one or more corresponding openings  1418  in the wearable support(s)  1414 . For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the anchor  1416  includes a post  1420  defining a bulbous end  1422  that is configured for positioning within the opening(s)  1418  (e.g., in an interference fit) to allow the audio component  1412  to be secured to and removed from the wearable support(s)  1414 . The anchor  1416  and the opening(s)  1418  may be configured to allow the audio component  1412  to be pivoted in relation to the wearable support(s)  1414  about an axis defined by the anchor  1416  to allow for more precise adjustment in the specific location of the audio component  1412  (i.e., to allow for variation in the angle α ( FIG. 2 )). The anchor  1416  and the opening(s)  1418  thus permit movement of the audio component  1412  in multiple degrees of freedom (i.e., lateral and longitudinal movement along the axes X, Y, as well as pivotable movement). 
     In various embodiments of the disclosure, it is envisioned that the opening(s)  1418  may extend either partially through the wearable support(s)  1414 , or entirely through the wearable support(s)  1414 . By extending the opening(s)  1418  entirely through the wearable support(s)  1414 , air flow and circulation may be increased, thereby facilitating a more comfortable user experience. It is further envisioned that, in certain embodiments, the anchor  1416  and the opening(s)  1418  may include one or more magnetic materials as well as one or more electrical contacts (not shown) to establish electrical communication between the audio component  1412  and the remainder of the display system  100  ( FIGS. 1, 2 ). 
     During use of the audio component  1412  and the wearable support(s)  1414 , to remove and relocate the audio component  1412 , the anchor  1416  can be simply withdrawn from one opening  1418  and inserted into another. Through the inclusion of a series of openings  1418  positioned at different locations on the wearable support(s)  1414 , the wearable support(s)  1414  and the audio component  1412  allow for increased flexibility in the location and orientation of the audio component  1412 . 
       FIGS. 16-18  illustrate additional embodiments of the audio component and the wearable support(s), which are respectively identified by the reference characters  1612  and  1614 . To facilitate the connection, disconnection, and reorientation of the audio component  1612 , the audio component  1612  includes a magnetic attachment member  1624  that is configured for engagement with one or more corresponding attachment members  1626  included on the wearable support(s)  1614 . The attachment members  1624 ,  1626  may assume any configuration suitable for the intended purpose of facilitating the connection and disconnection of the audio component  1612 . In the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 16 and 17 , for example, the attachment member  1624  included on the audio component  1612  is configured as a disc  1628 , and the attachment member  1626  included on the wearable support(s)  1614  is configured as an elongate plate  1630 . Such configurations allow for not only variability in the placement of the audio component  1612 , but for relative movement between the audio component  1612  and the wearable support(s)  1614  after placement (e.g., by sliding the audio component  1612  along the plate  1630  to permit movement in relation to the wearable support(s)  1614  in a manner that preserves magnetic contact). It should be appreciated, however, that the configuration of the attachment members  1624 ,  1626  may be varied in alternate embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the attachment member  1626  included on the wearable support(s)  1614  may instead include a series of discs  1632  corresponding in configuration to the disc  1628  included on the audio component  1612  to allow for placement in one or more predetermined locations, as seen in  FIG. 18 . 
     As discussed above with respect to the embodiment seen in  FIGS. 14 and 15 , it is envisioned that the attachment members  1624 ,  1626  may be configured to allow for movement of the audio component  1612  in multiple degrees of freedom. For example, after connection of the attachment members  1624 ,  1626 , it is envisioned that the attachment members  1624 ,  1626  may allow for slidable movement of the audio component  1612  and/or rotatable (i.e., pivotable) movement of the audio component  1612  in relation to the wearable support(s)  1614 . 
     To obscure the connection between any of the aforedescribed embodiments of the presently disclosed audio component and wearable support(s), it is envisioned that the display system  100  ( FIGS. 1, 2 ) may include a wrap, cover, etc. (not shown), which may be either fixedly connected to (e.g., integrally formed with) the wearable support(s), or removable therefrom. In such embodiments, the wrap, cover, etc., may be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials, including, for example, foam, fabric, polymeric materials, etc. 
     Persons skilled in the art will understand that the various embodiments of the disclosure described herein and shown in the accompanying figures constitute non-limiting examples. Additionally, persons skilled in the art will understand that the elements and features shown or described in connection with one embodiment may be combined with those of another embodiment without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the telescoping section  860  discussed in connection with  FIG. 8 , the pivot member  130  discussed in connection with  FIGS. 1-3 , etc., may be incorporated into any of the embodiments of the audio component discussed herein. 
     In the preceding description, reference may be made to the spatial relationship between the various structures illustrated in the accompanying drawings and to the spatial orientations of the structures. However, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art after a complete reading of this disclosure, the structures described herein may be positioned and oriented in any manner suitable for their intended purpose. Thus, the use of terms such as “above,” “below,” “upper,” “lower,” “inner,” “outer,” etc., should be understood to describe a relative relationship between the structures and/or a spatial orientation of the structures. 
     The use of terms such as “approximately” and “generally” should be understood to allow for variations in any numerical range or concept with which they are associated. For example, it is envisioned that the use of terms such as “approximately” and “generally” should be understood to encompass variations on the order of 25%, or to allow for manufacturing tolerances and/or deviations in design. 
     As described above, one aspect of the present technology is the gathering and use of data available from various sources, such as from the display system  100 , the audio component  112 , or user profiles, to improve the delivery to users of content associated with the display system  100  and the audio component  112 . The present disclosure contemplates that in some instances, this gathered data may include personal information data that uniquely identifies or can be used to contact or locate a specific person. Such personal information data can include demographic data, location-based data, telephone numbers, email addresses, twitter ID&#39;s, home addresses, data or records relating to a user&#39;s health or level of fitness (e.g., vital signs measurements, medication information, exercise information), date of birth, or any other identifying or personal information. 
     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 example, the personal information data can be used to deliver targeted content that is of greater interest to the user. Further, other uses for personal information data that benefit the user are also contemplated by the present disclosure. For instance, health and fitness data may be used to provide insights into a user&#39;s general wellness or may be used as positive feedback to individuals using technology to pursue wellness goals. 
     The present disclosure contemplates that the entities responsible for the collection, analysis, disclosure, transfer, storage, or other use of such personal information data will comply with well-established privacy policies and/or privacy practices. In particular, such entities should implement and consistently use privacy policies and practices that are generally recognized as meeting or exceeding industry or governmental requirements for maintaining personal information data private and secure. Such policies should be easily accessible by users and should be updated as the collection and/or use of data changes. Personal information from users should be collected for legitimate and reasonable uses of the entity and not shared or sold outside of those legitimate uses. Further, such collection/sharing should occur after receiving the informed consent of the users. 
     Additionally, such entities should consider taking any needed steps for safeguarding and securing access to such personal information data and ensuring that others with access to the personal information data adhere to their privacy policies and procedures. Further, such entities can subject themselves to evaluation by third parties to certify their adherence to widely accepted privacy policies and practices. In addition, policies and practices should be adapted for the particular types of personal information data being collected and/or accessed and adapted to applicable laws and standards, including jurisdiction-specific considerations. For instance, in the US, collection of or access to certain health data may be governed by federal and/or state laws, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA); whereas health data in other countries may be subject to other regulations and policies and should be handled accordingly. Hence different privacy practices should be maintained for different personal data types in each country. 
     Despite the foregoing, the present disclosure also contemplates embodiments in which users selectively block the use of, or access to, personal information data. That is, the present disclosure contemplates that hardware and/or software elements can be provided to prevent or block access to such personal information data. For example, in the case of user-profile-based delivery of content, the present technology can be configured to allow users to select to “opt in” or “opt out” of participation in the collection of personal information data during registration for services or anytime thereafter. In addition to providing “opt in” and “opt out” options, the present disclosure contemplates providing notifications relating to the access or use of personal information. For instance, a user may be notified upon downloading an app that their personal information data will be accessed and then reminded again just before personal information data is accessed by the app. 
     Moreover, it is the intent of the present disclosure that personal information data should be managed and handled in a way to minimize risks of unintentional or unauthorized access or use. Risk can be minimized by limiting the collection of data and deleting data once it is no longer needed. In addition, and when applicable, including in certain health related applications, data de-identification can be used to protect a user&#39;s privacy. De-identification may be facilitated, when appropriate, by removing specific identifiers (e.g., date of birth, etc.), controlling the amount or specificity of data stored (e.g., collecting location data a city level rather than at an address level), controlling how data is stored (e.g., aggregating data across users), and/or other methods. 
     Therefore, although the present disclosure broadly covers use of personal information data to implement one or more various disclosed embodiments, the present disclosure also contemplates that the various embodiments can also be implemented without the need for accessing such personal information data. That is, the various embodiments of the present technology are not rendered inoperable due to the lack of all or a portion of such personal information data. For example, content can be provided to users by inferring preferences based on non-personal information data or a bare minimum amount of personal information, such as the content being requested by the device associated with a user, other non-personal information available to the device, or publicly available information.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20201007
Publication Date: 20220621
Grant Date: 20220621
Priority Date: 20180913
Inventors: SILFVAST, ROBERT D.
VANDYKE, James W.
FRANKLIN, JEREMY C.
EVANS, NEAL D.
EUBANK, Christopher T.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H04R2499/15", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R1/1075", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G02B27/0176", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R5/0335", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R1/1041", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R1/028", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G02B27/017", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06T19/006", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R1/105", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R3/04", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R1/1066", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R1/24", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R2499/15", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R1/028", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06T19/006", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G02B27/0176", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R2499/15", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G02B27/017", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G02B27/0176", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06T19/006", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R1/028", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R1/1041", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R1/105", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R1/1066", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R1/1075", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R1/24", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R3/04", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R5/0335", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R2499/15", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 67003623