DISPLAY DEVICE SUPPORT SYSTEM

Abstract

A system for supporting video display devices in front of a user. Support system includes a headwear element that is placed over or upon a user's head. A display device, such as a three-dimensional display device is placed in an adjustable support structure that is located at the front of the headwear element. Through the adjustable structure the display device can be positioned at the best level for the user's eyes. In some embodiments the headwear element can use a support strap provided towards the rear of the headwear element to helps support the weight of the display device.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to display device support systems, more specifically, the present invention is directed to a headwear device supporting a display device in front of a user.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There are a number of video display devices on the market that are designed to place a display in front of the eyes of a user. Often, these devices are modeled after glasses in their general shape and in the manner that they interface with the user's head. Most of the time, these applications are used in conjunction with two-dimensional (2D) image displays. Since 2D image displays can tolerate wider variations in physical parameters, such as in alignment relative to the user's eyes, currently available head mounted display arrangements are capable of producing acceptable results.

However, applications designed for three-dimensional (3D) viewing often have difficulty utilizing traditional designs. 3D applications often have smaller tolerances for variations in physical parameters. Every human face is different, and devices that use the user's eyes and ears for alignment may not operate to optimally place the display relative to an individual user's eyes.

Traditional systems may also have difficulty handling the weight of complicated display systems. For example, “glasses” style devices may place an uncomfortable or impractical amount of weight on the user's nose or ears. This combination of weight locations can become extremely uncomfortable, especially after extended periods of wear, and may be unsuitable for assuring the consistent viewing geometry (3D) systems typically need. These problems can become exacerbated when the traditional 2D display system is replaced with a heavier 3D system.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a system for supporting display devices in front of a user. Example embodiments of the system incorporate the support structures into a headwear element that is placed over or upon a user's head. A display device, such as a three-dimensional (3D) display device is placed in a support structure that is located at the front of the headwear, and allows the display device to be vertically adjustable in relation to the headwear. Example headwear embodiments may also use a support strap provided towards the rear portion of the headwear that helps support the weight of the display device.

In some example embodiments, the support structure is comprised of removable components. The first component is a headwear interface component, shaped to conform to the shape of a users forehead. The second component is a display interface component that mounts the display device. Connection of the two components can be accomplished by slideably inserting a teeth bearing top portion of the display device interface component into a groove or other receptacle on the headwear interface component, and holding it there using a retarding mechanism that interfaces with said teeth.

Other example embodiments allows the display device to be removed and worn as a hat or visor. The support structure may utilize a series of clips, screws or other means for holding the 3D display device at the proper level for the user. In such embodiments, this level is typically just above the nose of the wearer. In some embodiments the user can flip the 3D display device out of the way when not in use while still wearing the headwear device. Head phones or other sound producing devices can be attached to the structure and linked to the display device.

The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the features and technical advantages of the present invention in order that the detailed description of the invention that follows may be better understood. Additional features and advantages of the invention will be described hereinafter which form the subject of the claims of the invention. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception and specific embodiment disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other structures for carrying out the same purposes of the present invention. It should also be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims. The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the invention, both as to its organization and method of operation, together with further objects and advantages will be better understood from the following description when considered in connection with the accompanying figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that each of the figures is provided for the purpose of illustration and description only and is not intended as a definition of the limits of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a more complete understanding of the present invention, reference is now made to the following descriptions taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawing, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a display device support system according to one embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a support structure according to one embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a side view of a headwear element according to one embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating a process according to one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a portion of display device support system 100 according to one illustrative embodiment. Support system 100 includes headwear interface component 110 and display device interface component 130, which allow display device 120 to be suspended in front of user's eyes.

In many embodiments, the support system is an attachable portion of a headwear apparatus, such as a hat, a visor or other apparatus that can be placed on the user's head. In other embodiments, headwear interface component 110 is simply the front portion of the hat, visor or other apparatus. In these embodiments, the support system 100 may be attached to the user's head by any acceptable method, for example, double sided tape or by attaching additional support elements to headwear interface component 110. Headwear interface component 110 may include brim 111 to provide shading and reduces glare to the user.

In the illustrated embodiments, display device 120 is a device that provides visual information to a wearer. This visual information can be presented for example, in 2D or in 3D viewing. Display device 120 can be connected to a video or other device (not illustrated) that provides images (e.g., prerecorded or otherwise generated or stored remotely to the device through the use of, for example, wires or cables 122. Wires 122 may also carry audio or other information to the device.

In order for the user to properly and comfortably, use the display device, display screens 121 should be placed at normal eye (pupil) level. To assist in the positioning of display device 120, nose cutout 123 may be provided to allow display device 120 to fit over the user's nose. Due to the variety of human characteristics, a fixed location of display device 120 relative to headwear interface component 110 may not be optimal. In the example embodiments, the support structure allows for the adjustment of display device 120 relative to headwear interface component 110 to permit proper alignment of display screens 121 to the user's eyes.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating another example of the present invention shown as support system 200, as viewed from the front, and shown separated from a headwear apparatus. In the embodiment of FIG. 2, system 200 includes headwear interface component 210, and display device interface component 230.

Headwear interface component 210 is shaped to conform to a user's forehead. The material used to form hardware interface component 210 can either be flexible or rigid, depending on the desired properties of headwear interface component 210. The headwear interface component 210 can be surrounded by other material to increase the comfort of the device. According to some embodiments, the outer portion of the headwear interface component 210 includes an adjustment wheel 213. Adjustment wheel 213 is configured to engage interface teeth 232 on a top portion of device interface component 230 to assist the user in placing display device 120 at the correct level. It should be noted, that embodiments of the present invention are not limited to a wheel. Other embodiments utilize a ball bearing and spring to interface with teeth 232, and any appropriate detent may be used. of the Also in some embodiments, stops 214 and 215 are provided. Stops 214 and 215 limit the amount of travel permitted of display device 120. Additionally, channel 216 may be provided to support and control the movement of display device interface component 230 during raising and lowering.

Display device interface component 230 provides a connection between display device 120 and headwear interface component 210. Display device interface component 230 includes bottom portion 240 and top portion 250. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2 bottom portion 240 includes two holes or apertures 226 that are used to affix or attach display device 120 to display device interface component 230. However, other attachment methods can be used (e.g., clips, snaps, etc.). Top portion 250 includes slot 231 that limits the up and down adjustments of the display device. Slot 231 interfaces with stops 214 and 215 in limiting the range of motion of the support structure. Top portion 250 also includes a set of interface teeth 232 configured to interface with adjustment wheel 213 of headwear interface component 210. In some embodiments bottom portion 240 includes a hinge or other mechanism placed in a way that permits display device 120 to rotate away from the user's face so that the display device 120 is out of the way when the user periodically needs to view the outside world. Such a hinge or bracket could be placed between top portion 250 and bottom portion 240, for example, and rotate display device up or rotate display device 120 to the side.

The system described in the representative embodiments provides a method of suspending and adjusting a display device that is illustrated in FIG. 4. As shown in step 401, mount a display device, such as display device 120, on a component, such as display device interface component 230, that can be adjustably connected to a component of a headwear apparatus, such as headwear interface component 210. Adjusting the display device's position, shown in step 402, can then be accomplished by sliding the device interface component 230 through the connection to the headwear interface component 210. Display device 120 is illustrated in FIG. 2 as held in place using pressure connector 233. This applies pressure on device interface component 230 against headwear interface component 210. The pressure applied by pressure connector 233 retards the movement of display device 120 relative to headwear interface component 210. To move display device 120 either up or down (i.e., raising/lowering) relative to headwear interface component 210, as described in step 403 of FIG. 4, pressure connector 233 is loosened to a point where display device interface component 230 can move. The user then rotates adjustment wheel 213 to move the display device 120. The rotation of adjustment wheel 213 engages teeth 232 in a method similar to a rack-and-pinion system. Again, it should be noted that the embodiments are not limited to an adjustment wheel, but, rather may use any appropriate mechanism to aide in holding the components in position in relation to each other. For example, other embodiments utilize a ball-bearing or other similar object pressed into the teeth by a spring. Thus, the user is able to adjust the height of display device 120 and display screens 121 relative to the user's eyes. When finished with the adjustment the user retightens pressure connector 233 to prevent additional movement of display device 120. However, in some embodiments the adjustment wheel 213 can be omitted and display device 120 can be adjusted manually.

FIG. 3 is a side view of headwear element 110 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Headwear element 110 includes ovoid portion 310 and strap 320. Ovoid portion 310 is designed to fit around a user's head. Depending on the arrangement and style of headwear element 110, ovoid portion 310 may be adjustable. Adjustment may be made using any technique for increasing or decreasing the size of ovoid portion 310.

Generally, front portion 311 of the ovoid portion 310 is arranged to press or fit against the forehead of the user. In some embodiments, front portion 311 of the ovoid portion 310 has headwear interface component 210 inserted into it. The location of headwear interface component 210 is arranged such that display device 120 can be placed, following adjustment, at the proper location relative to the user's eyes. In other embodiments, ovoid portion 310 is divided into two distinct portions. In yet other embodiments the headwear interface component 210 forms front portion 311 of the ovoid portion 310. In these embodiments, connection points 313 are provided to connect front portion 311 to back portion 312 to form ovoid portion 310.

In some embodiments, a strap 320 is located towards back portion 312 of the ovoid portion 310. Strap 320 loops over from one side of ovoid portion 310 to the other. When worn by a user, strap 320 typically rests on or near the crown of the user's head. In some embodiments strap 320 is adjustable to create a better (tighter) fit on the user's head. For example, adjustment can be made using hook-and-eye connectors (such as Velcro®) to properly tighten the strap on the user's head. However, any adjustment method may be used. Strap 320 provides additional support that transfers a portion of the weight associated with display device 120 from the front of the user's head to the back of their head. This results in the user having a more comfortable viewing and wearing experience, and helps to counter the weight of the display device suspended in front of the user.

Although the present invention and its advantages have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations can be made herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Moreover, the scope of the present application is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments of the process, machine, manufacture, composition of matter, means, methods and steps described in the specification. As one of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate from the disclosure of the present invention, processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps, presently existing or later to be developed that perform substantially the same function or achieve substantially the same result as the corresponding embodiments described herein may be utilized according to the present invention. Accordingly, the appended claims are intended to include within their scope such processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps.

Claims

1. A system for supporting a display device in front of a user, comprising:

a headwear apparatus designed to fit on a head of a user;

a headwear interface component designed to connect to said headwear apparatus, and formed to a shape of a user's head;

a display device interface component adjustably connected to said headwear interface apparatus; and

a display device mounted to the display device interface;

wherein said display device is suspended in front of said user.

2. The system of claim 1 further comprising:

a strap coupled to said headwear device, said strap configured to interface across a portion of said user's head, said strap counteracting a force applied by said display device on said headwear device.

3. The system of claim 2 wherein said strap is adjustable.

4. The system of claim 2 wherein said strap is disposed near a back portion of said headwear apparatus and interfaces with a back portion of said user's head.

5. The system of claim 1 wherein said display device interface component is removable from said headwear interface component.

6. The system of claim 1 wherein said headwear interface component is removable from said headwear apparatus.

7. The system of claim 1 further comprising:

a wheel coupled to said headwear interface component; and

a plurality of engagement teeth disposed on said display device interface component configured to interact with said wheel to move said display device interface component.

8. The system of claim 1 further comprising:

a ball-bearing and spring detent connected to said headwear interface component, wherein said ball-bearing is forced to interact with engagement teeth on said display device interface component when said components are slideably connected.

9. The system of claim 8 further comprising:

a pressure connector that, when engaged, retards movement of said display device interface component relative to said headwear interface component.

10. The system of claim 1 wherein said headwear interface component is attached via set of straps.

11. The system of claim 1 wherein said display device interface includes a rotation means that allows said user to see while keeping said display device connected to said headwear apparatus.

12. The system of claim 1 wherein said headwear apparatus is a visor.

13. A method of putting a display device in front of a user, said method comprising:

mounting a display device to a display device interface component;

adjustably connecting said display device component to a headwear interface component; and

attaching said headwear interface component to a headwear apparatus, wherein said display device is suspended in front of a user.

14. The method of claim 13 further comprising:

adjusting a position of said display device by vertically sliding said display device interface component relative to said headwear interface component; and

resisting said sliding with a detent attached to said headwear interface component.

15. The method of claim 14 wherein said adjusting further comprises:

rotating a wheel on a headwear interface component disposed on said headwear device;

engaging with said wheel a portion of a display device interface component; and

raising/lowering said display device interface component in response to said rotating.

16. The method of claim 14 further comprising:

releasing a restraining component;

adjusting said display device; and

reengaging said restraining component.

17. The method of claim 13 further comprising:

placing a strap coupled to said headwear device for redirecting to the back portion of said users head at least a portion of a weight associated with said display device.

18. A video display system comprising:

a video display device, said display device having a video display for a right eye and a video display for a left eye;

a headwear element arranged so as to fit about a wearer's head;

a connection component coupled to said display device and a front portion of said headwear element, said connection component arranged to couple said video display device to a front portion of said headwear element; and

a support strap coupled to a rear portion of said headwear element, said support strap transferring at least a portion of a weight associated with said video display device from said front portion to a rear portion of said wear's head.

19. The system of claim 18 wherein said connection component comprises:

a rotatable toothed wheel; and

a toothed rack interfacing with said toothed wheel;

wherein said toothed wheel and toothed rack arranged to adjust a height of said display device relative to said headwear element.

20. The system of claim 19 wherein said connection comprises:

a spring connected to said headwear interface component;

a sphere being pressured by said spring; and

teeth located on said display device interface component, wherein said sphere is pressed into gaps between said teeth when said components are connected.