U.S. patent application number 16/517583 was filed with the patent office on 2020-01-23 for safe head-mounted display for vehicles.
This patent application is currently assigned to Facense Ltd.. The applicant listed for this patent is Facense Ltd.. Invention is credited to Ari M Frank, Gil Thieberger, Arie Tzvieli.
Application Number | 20200026088 16/517583 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 67839726 |
Filed Date | 2020-01-23 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200026088 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Tzvieli; Arie ; et
al. |
January 23, 2020 |
Safe head-mounted display for vehicles
Abstract
Head-mounted displays (HMDs) are being used more and more for
entertainment and work while traveling in vehicles. However, the
use of an HMD can be risky in the event of a collision if it is not
removed from the head in time. This disclosure describes HMDs that
are dismantled automatically from the heads of passengers in
vehicles. In one embodiment, an HMD includes a display module and a
mount that includes a flexible piece and a stiff piece connected by
a lock. The mount attaches the display module to a passenger's head
while the pieces are connected. Upon receiving an indication of an
imminent collision involving the vehicle, the lock disconnects the
pieces such that the flexible piece stays on the head shortly after
the disconnection, and the stiff piece is removed from the head
shortly after the disconnection.
Inventors: |
Tzvieli; Arie; (Berkeley,
CA) ; Thieberger; Gil; (Kiryat Tivon, IL) ;
Frank; Ari M; (Haifa, IL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Facense Ltd. |
Kiryat Tivon |
|
IL |
|
|
Assignee: |
Facense Ltd.
Kiryat Tivon
IL
|
Family ID: |
67839726 |
Appl. No.: |
16/517583 |
Filed: |
July 20, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62701499 |
Jul 20, 2018 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B60R 21/02 20130101;
B60R 2021/0253 20130101; B60R 2021/0293 20130101; B60Q 9/008
20130101; B60R 2021/0213 20130101; B60R 21/214 20130101; B60R 1/00
20130101; B60R 2021/0048 20130101; G02B 27/0172 20130101; G02B
27/0176 20130101; B60R 2300/205 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G02B 27/01 20060101
G02B027/01; B60R 1/00 20060101 B60R001/00; B60Q 9/00 20060101
B60Q009/00 |
Claims
1. A head-mounted display (HMD) configured to be dismantled
automatically from the head of a passenger who travels in an
automated on-road vehicle, comprising: a display module configured
to project video into the passenger's eyes; and a mount comprising
a flexible piece and a stiff piece (pieces) connected by a lock;
wherein the mount is configured to attach the display module to the
passenger's head while the pieces are connected; wherein,
responsive to receiving an indication of an imminent collision
involving the automated on-road vehicle, the lock is configured to
disconnect the pieces (disconnection), such that the flexible piece
stays on the head shortly after the disconnection, and the stiff
piece is removed from the head shortly after the disconnection.
2. The HMD of claim 1, wherein the flexible piece is in direct
physical contact with the passenger's face, and the stiff piece
holds the display module and is not in direct physical contact with
the passenger's face.
3. The HMD of claim 1, wherein the flexible piece is disposable and
in physical contact with the passenger's face, and the stiff piece
is not disposable and is not in physical contact with the
passenger's face.
4. The HMD of claim 1, wherein the disconnection enables fast
removal of the HMD from the passenger's head before the imminent
collision.
5. A head-mounted display (HMD) configured to be dismantled
automatically from the head of a passenger traveling in an
automated on-road vehicle, comprising: a display module; and a
mount comprising a flexible piece and a stiff piece (pieces)
connected by a lock; wherein the mount is configured to attach the
display module to the passenger's head while the pieces are
connected; wherein the lock is configured to disconnect the pieces,
responsive to receiving an indication indicative of an imminent
collision involving the automated on-road vehicle, such that the
stiff piece is removed from the passenger's head before the
collision.
6. The HMD of claim 5, wherein the flexible piece remains on the
passenger's head after the lock disconnects the pieces and before
the collision.
7. The HMD of claim 5, wherein the flexible piece is in direct
physical contact with the passenger's face, and the stiff piece
holds the display module and is not in direct physical contact with
the passenger's face.
8. The HMD a of claim 5, wherein the flexible piece is a disposable
hygienic layer configured to prevent direct physical contact of the
stiff piece with the passenger's face while the passenger wears the
HMD.
9. The HMD of claim 5, wherein the flexible piece is configured to
cushion pressure of the stiff piece on the passenger's face while
wearing the HMD.
10. The HMD of claim 5, wherein the flexible piece comprises an
element made of at least one of: a foam, rubber, silicon, and a
shock absorbing material.
11. The HMD of claim 5, wherein the HMD is wired to an actuator
fixed to a cabin of the automated on-road vehicle; wherein after
disconnecting the pieces, the actuator is configured to pull from
the passenger's head the stiff piece together with the display
module, and to secure the stiff piece and the display module in
order to prevent it from being thrown inside the cabin during the
collision.
12. The HMD of claim 5, wherein the HMD is a wireless HMD, the lock
is physically coupled to the wireless HMD, and the disconnect of
the pieces pushes the stiff piece off the passenger's head.
13. A head-mounted display (HMD) configured to be dismantled
automatically before a collision, comprising: a mount configured to
surround the head of a passenger who travels in an automated
on-road vehicle; a display module configured to project video into
the passenger's eyes; and a lock configured to attach the display
module to the mount; wherein the lock is configured to disconnect a
portion of the display module from a portion of the mount,
responsive to receiving an indication of an imminent collision
involving the automated on-road vehicle, such that the portion of
the display module is removed from the passenger's head before the
collision, and the portion of the mount is not removed from the
passenger's head before the collision.
14. The HMD of claim 13, further comprising an actuator fixed to
the vehicle; wherein the actuator is powered by a motor and is
configured to remove the portion of the display module from the
passenger's head upon receiving the indication.
15. The HMD of claim 14, wherein the actuator comprises at least
one cord and at least one winder; the at least one cord is
connected at one side to the at least one winder and is connected
at the other side to the HMD; wherein the motor is configured to
rotate the winder in one direction to spool the cord.
16. The HMD of claim 15, wherein the motor is configured to rotate
the winder in the opposite direction to unspool the cord, the cord
is configured to transmit to the HMD power from a power source and
video signals from a computer; and wherein the power source and the
computer are fixed to the vehicle.
17. The HMD of claim 15, wherein the HMD further comprises a
wireless receiver configured to receive at least most of the video
data to be presented to the passenger over a wireless channel, and
the cord is configured to secure the HMD from hitting the passenger
during collision.
18. The HMD of claim 14, wherein the actuator comprises at least
one cord and at least one rail, and the motor is configured to move
over the rail; and wherein the at least one cord is connected at
one side to the motor and at the other side to the HMD.
19. The HMD of claim 18, wherein the motor is a step motor and the
rail has grooves suited for the step motor.
20. The HMD of claim 18, wherein the motor is a linear motor, and
further comprising a motor encoder to control the position of the
motor on the rail.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This Application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 62/701,499, filed Jul. 20, 2018.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
[0002] Gil Thieberger would like to thank his holy and beloved
teacher, Lama Dvora-hla, for her extraordinary teachings and
manifestation of wisdom, love, compassion and morality, and for her
endless efforts, support, and skills in guiding him and others on
their paths to freedom and ultimate happiness. Gil would also like
to thank his beloved parents for raising him exactly as they
did.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0003] This application relates to dismantling automatically a
head-mounted display from the head of a passenger who travels in an
automated on-road vehicle.
BACKGROUND
[0004] Head-mounted displays (HMDs) are being used more and more
for entertainment and work while traveling in vehicles. For
example, virtual reality can turn a dreary commute into an
exhilarating adventure. However, wearing an HMD in a vehicle can
pose a safety risk in the event of a collision. For example, a
deploying airbag can collide with an HMD worn by a passenger, which
can cause trauma to the passenger's face. As another example,
wearing an HMD during collision can cause a whiplash because of the
extra weight of the HMD that is added to the head. In order to
realize the potential of using HMDs in vehicles, there is a need to
address the safety issues such use may pose.
SUMMARY
[0005] In order to reduce the trauma to the passenger's face, there
is a need to remove from the user's head, shortly before the
collision, at least some of the stiff elements belonging to the
HMD. Additionally or alternatively, in order to reduce the severity
of the whiplash, there is a need to reduce as much as possible the
extra weight on the head and neck. This disclosure describes
various embodiments of HMDs, which may be used in automated on-road
vehicles. In an event that a collision is imminent, e.g., as
indicated by an Advanced Driver-Assistance System (ADAS), at least
a portion of the HMDs may be removed from the face in order to
reduce injuries, such as trauma to the passenger's face and/or
whiplash to the passenger's neck, as a result of the collision.
[0006] Some embodiments of HMDs described herein include a mount
that holds a display module to a user's face in order to project
video to the user's eyes, while traveling in an automated on-road
vehicle. The mount may include a stiff piece (to which the display
is connected) and a flexible piece, with the two pieces being
connected by a lock. Responsive to receiving an indication of an
imminent collision involving the vehicle, the lock is configured to
disconnect the pieces (disconnection), such that the flexible piece
stays on the head shortly after the disconnection, and the stiff
piece is removed from the head shortly after the disconnection.
Such a disconnection reduces the possibility of trauma to the
user's face, for example due to the display smashing into the face.
The flexible piece that remains on the face may include various
types of shock absorbing materials, which can serve to protect the
face from trauma related to the collision. Additionally, in some
embodiments, the flexible piece may also have a hygienic purpose,
being a personal and/or disposable buffer between the display
module and the passenger's face, which may be desired if HMDs are
shared among multiple passengers, such as in vehicles used in
public transportation, ride sharing, or co-ownership.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] The embodiments are herein described by way of example only,
with reference to the following drawings:
[0008] FIG. 1a to FIG. 1d illustrate one embodiment in which a
head-mounted display (HMD) worn by a passenger in a vehicle is
dismantled and its display module is stored near the ceiling of the
vehicle;
[0009] FIG. 2a to FIG. 2d illustrate one embodiment in which an HMD
worn by a passenger in a vehicle is dismantled and its display
module is stored near the floor of the vehicle;
[0010] FIG. 3a to FIG. 3d illustrate one embodiment in which an HMD
worn by a passenger in a vehicle is dismantled and its display
module is stored near the dashboard;
[0011] FIG. 4a illustrates one example of locks positions for
quickly dismantling a Microsoft.RTM. Hololens.TM. augmented reality
headset;
[0012] FIG. 4b illustrates Microsoft.RTM. Hololens.TM. augmented
reality headset as an example of an HMD that includes a mount
configured to surround the passenger's head;
[0013] FIG. 5 illustrates one example of a position for a lock
configured to quickly dismantling a VR headset strap from behind
the head;
[0014] FIG. 6a and FIG. 6b illustrate one embodiment in which smart
glasses are removed from the head of a passenger;
[0015] FIG. 7a and FIG. 7b illustrate one embodiment in which an
augmented reality HMD is removed from the head of a passenger;
[0016] FIG. 8a to FIG. 8d illustrates various systems that include
an HMD with airbags that inflate via a tube connected to an
inflation system, in which the tube remains connected following the
inflation;
[0017] FIG. 9a to FIG. 9d illustrates various systems that include
an HMD with airbags that inflate via a tube connected to an
inflation system, in which the tube disconnects following the
inflation; and
[0018] FIG. 10a and FIG. 10b are schematic illustrations of
possible embodiments for computers.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0019] The following are definitions of various terms that may be
used to describe one or more of the embodiments in this
disclosure.
[0020] The term "automated driving system" as used herein refers to
a Level 2 and higher Levels of autonomous driving (Level 3, Level
4, and/or Level 5), such as defined in SAE J30162_01609 "Taxonomy
and Definitions for Terms Related to Driving Automation Systems for
On-Road Motor Vehicles". "Automated driving system" also refers to
any kind of autonomous driving system for vehicles that will be
developed in the future. Examples of automated driving system
include Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) from
manufacturers such as: Tesla, Mobileye, NVIDIA, Autoliv,
Continental, Delphi, and Denso.
[0021] The term "automated on-road vehicle" as used herein refers
to cars and/or motorcycles designed to drive on public roadways
utilizing automated driving of level 2 and above according to SAE
J3016_201609. The term "automated on-road vehicle" does not include
trains, airplanes, boats, and armored fighting vehicles.
[0022] Automated driving systems usually use algorithms such as
machine learning, pattern recognition, neural network, machine
vision, artificial intelligence, and/or probabilistic logic to
calculate probability of an imminent collision. The term "calculate
probability of an imminent collision" also refers to "calculate
values indicative of probability of an imminent collision", from
which it is possible to estimate the probability of the imminent
collision. The algorithms usually receive as inputs the trajectory
of the vehicle, measured locations of at least one nearby vehicle,
information about the road, and/or information about environmental
conditions. Calculating the probability of an imminent collision is
known in the art, both for human driven vehicles and autonomous
vehicles, and is widely used in Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems
(ADAS). For example, the following U.S. Patent Applications
describe driver-assistance systems that calculate probability of an
imminent collision: U.S. 2017/0217431, U.S. 2009/0292468, U.S.
2018/0052005, U.S. 2018/0141545, U.S. 2018/0141544, U.S.
2009/0192710, U.S. Pat. No. 8,868,325, and U.S. 2013/0030686.
[0023] An element "fixed to the vehicle" may be connected to any
relevant part of the vehicle, whether inside the vehicle, outside
the vehicle, to the front, back, top, bottom, and/or to a side of
the vehicle.
[0024] The term "display" refers herein to any device that provides
video to a human user. The video provided by the display may be
two-dimensional video or three-dimensional video. Some non-limiting
examples of displays that may be used in embodiments described in
this disclosure include: (i) screens and/or video displays of
various devices (e.g., televisions, computer monitors, tablets,
smartphones, or smartwatches), (ii) headset displays such as
augmented-reality systems (e.g., Vuzix Blade), virtual-reality
systems (e.g., Oculus rift, HTC Vive, Samsung GearVR), and
mixed-reality systems (e.g., Microsoft.RTM. Hololens.TM., Magic
Leap), and (iii) image projection systems that project video on the
user's retina, such as: Virtual Retinal Displays (VRD) that create
images by projecting low power light directly onto the retina,
and/or light-field technologies that project light rays directly
into the eye.
[0025] In one embodiment, a head-mounted display (HMD) is
configured to be dismantled automatically from the head of a
passenger who travels in an automated on-road vehicle. The HMD
includes at least a display module, a mount, and a lock. The
display module is configured to project video into the passenger's
eyes. The mount includes a flexible piece and a stiff piece
(referred to as "pieces") connected by the lock. The mount is
configured to attach the display module to the passenger's head
while the pieces are connected. Responsive to receiving an
indication of an imminent collision involving the automated on-road
vehicle, the lock is configured to disconnect the pieces (referred
to as "disconnection"), such that the flexible piece stays on the
head shortly after the disconnection, and the stiff piece is
removed from the head shortly after the disconnection.
[0026] There may be various options and/or configurations for the
flexible and/or stiff pieces in embodiments described herein. In
one example, the flexible piece is in direct physical contact with
the passenger's face, and the stiff piece holds the display module
and is not in direct physical contact with the passenger's face. In
another example, the flexible piece is disposable and in physical
contact with the passenger's face, and the stiff piece is not
disposable and is not in physical contact with the passenger's
face. In yet another example, the disconnection enables fast
removal of the HMD from the passenger's head before the imminent
collision.
[0027] In another embodiment, an HMD is configured to be dismantled
automatically from the head of a passenger traveling in an
automated on-road vehicle. The HMD includes at least a display
module, a mount, and a lock. The mount includes a flexible piece
and a stiff piece (referred to as "pieces") connected by the lock.
The mount is configured to attach the display module to the
passenger's head while the pieces are connected. And the lock is
configured to disconnect the pieces, responsive to receiving an
indication indicative of an imminent collision involving the
automated on-road vehicle, such that the stiff piece is removed
from the passenger's head before the collision. Optionally, the
flexible piece remains on the passenger's head after the lock
disconnects the pieces and before the collision. Optionally, the
flexible piece is in direct physical contact with the passenger's
face, and the stiff piece holds the display module and is not in
direct physical contact with the passenger's face. Optionally, the
flexible piece is a disposable hygienic layer configured to prevent
direct physical contact of the stiff piece with the passenger's
face while the passenger wears the HMD. Optionally, the flexible
piece is configured to cushion pressure of the stiff piece on the
passenger's face while wearing the HMD. Optionally, the flexible
piece comprises an element made of at least one of: a foam, rubber,
silicon, and a shock absorbing material.
[0028] In one embodiment, the HMD is wired to an actuator fixed to
a cabin of the automated on-road vehicle. After disconnecting the
pieces, the actuator is configured to pull, from the passenger's
head, the stiff piece together with the display module, and to
secure the stiff piece and the display module in order to prevent
it from being thrown inside the cabin during the collision.
[0029] In an alternative embodiment, the HMD is a wireless HMD, the
lock is physically coupled to the wireless HMD, and disconnecting
the pieces pushes the stiff piece off the passenger's head. In one
example, after disconnecting the pieces, the stiff piece together
with at least a portion of the display module falls off the
passenger's head by gravity. In another example, disconnecting the
pieces is achieved by releasing energy (such as releasing a spring,
applying electromagnet repulsion force, and/or using a flammable
material such as a combustible and/or explosive material). This
energy pushes away the stiff piece, together with at least a
portion of the display module, off the passenger's head.
[0030] There are various possible embodiments for the lock. In one
embodiment, the HMD is unusable after disconnecting the pieces. In
another embodiment, the lock is a disposable lock that needs to be
replaced after disconnecting the pieces. And in still another
embodiment, the lock is a reusable lock that can be used again
after disconnecting the pieces. The following are example of
possible implementations for the lock that holds and disconnects
the at least two pieces of the mount.
[0031] In one example, the lock that connects and disconnects the
pieces is based on a permanent electromagnetic holder. When the
power is off the magnet holds the pieces, and when the current is
turned on the magnetism is neutralized, allowing the connection to
be released.
[0032] In another example, the lock that connects and disconnects
the pieces is based on a solenoid lock. A solenoid lock usually
includes a coil of copper wire with an armature (that is a slug of
metal) in the middle. When the solenoid coil is not energized (and
does not consume power), the pieces are connected together by the
solenoid slug that prevents their separation. When the coil is
energized, the slug is pulled into the center of the coil, and the
pieces can be disconnected because the solenoid slug does not
prevent their separation.
[0033] In still another example, the lock that connects and
disconnects the pieces is based on an electromagnetic lock. In this
example, the pieces of the mount may include an electromagnet and
an armature plate. In one embodiment, the electromagnets are
attached to the display module while the mating armature plates are
attached to straps that are part of the mount. The electromagnet
and the armature plate are in contact when the straps are connected
to the display module. When the electromagnet is on, a current
passing through the electromagnet causes the armature plate to
attract to the electromagnet, creating a locking action. When the
electromagnet is off, the armature plate is not attracted to the
electromagnet, and the display module is disconnected from the
straps. It is noted that although most of the examples related to
possible implementations of the lock are given with reference a
mount that includes straps, most of these examples are also
relevant to a mount that does not include straps, such as the stiff
mount of Microsoft.RTM. Hololens.TM. augmented reality headset.
[0034] In still another example, the lock includes a motor
configured to move over a rail. The rail includes at least first
and second parts. The first part is attached to the display module
while the second part is attached to straps. When the motor is on
the rail, the first and second parts cannot be separated because
the motor holds them. When the motor moves and falls off the rail,
there is nothing to hold the first and second parts together, and
thus the display module is disconnected from the straps.
[0035] In still another example, the lock includes an explosive
material that disconnects the at least two pieces (such as the
flexible piece and the stiff piece), and thus the display module is
disconnected from the straps. In an alternative configuration, the
lock is configured to disconnect a portion of the display module
from a portion of the mount, responsive to receiving the indication
of an imminent collision involving the automated on-road vehicle;
here, the detonation of the explosive material causes the portion
of the display module to be removed from the passenger's head
before the collision, while the detonation of the explosive
material does not cause the portion of the mount to be removed from
the passenger's head before the collision.
[0036] The lock that connects and disconnects the at least two
pieces of the mount may be located in various places over the HMD,
as described in the following examples:
[0037] In one example, the HMD is mounted on the head using straps,
and the lock connects the straps to a structure that is part of the
display module. After the lock disconnects the straps from the
display module, the display module can be easily removed from the
head. For example, FIG. 3c illustrates lock 116a that is
disconnected from the strap 112a.
[0038] In another example, the HMD is mounted on the head using at
least two straps, and the lock connects the at least two straps.
After the lock disconnects the connection between the straps, the
HMD can be easily removed from the head. For example, FIG. 5
illustrates lock 175 that is configured to disconnect the right
strap 176a from the left strap (not illustrated in the figure);
after disconnecting the straps, the HMD 177 can be easily removed
from the head.
[0039] In still another example, the HMD is mounted on the head
using at least one headband, and the lock connects at least two
parts of the headband. FIG. 4a illustrates one example of possible
locations for four locks that can quickly dismantle Microsoft.RTM.
Hololens.TM. augmented reality headset. The mount in Microsoft.RTM.
Hololens.TM. includes a headband and a visor. Locks 170a and 170b
are configured to connect and disconnect the front and back pieces
of the visor. Lock 171a, together with the right lock (that is
hidden in the figure), are configured to connect and disconnects
the upper and lower pieces of the headband. After the locks
disconnect the connections between the pieces of the headband and
the visor, the HMD can be easily removed from the head. FIG. 4b
illustrates alternative locations for the locks (172a, 172b); these
alternative locations are suitable for releasing the front piece
from the two mounts that surround the passenger's head.
[0040] The display module includes electronics and usually also
optics, configured to project video into the passenger's eyes. The
electronics and optics are fixed to the head by the mount. In one
embodiment, the mount includes a stiff piece that protects the
electronics and optics from being damaged during normal usage
conditions. For example, in Oculus Rift the stiff piece includes
the outer shell that covers and protects the electronics and optics
from being damaged.
[0041] The following is a description of illustrations of examples
of different embodiments of systems configured to dismantle a
head-mounted display (HMD) from a passenger's head.
[0042] FIG. 2a to FIG. 2d illustrate a system in which actuator 105
is connected by cable 103 to HMD worn by a passenger. The HMD
comprises a display module 101 and a mount that includes two
pieces: a strap 102a and a face piece 102b that is attached to the
display module 101. At least part of the face piece 102b comes into
physical contact with the passenger's face, while the display
module 101 does not come into direct physical contact with the
passengers' face. FIG. 2b illustrates a removal of the HMD from the
passenger's head after receiving an indication (e.g., of an
imminent collision of the vehicle). The removal is achieved by
disassembling the HMD, by having the lock 116a disconnect the two
pieces of the mount (that are in this case the face piece 102b and
the strap 102a). FIG. 2c illustrates a magnification of a region of
FIG. 2b, which illustrates the strap 102a being separated from the
display module 101 and face piece 102b. The display module 101 and
face piece 102b may be pulled by cord 103, which is part of the
actuator 105. In this illustration, the strap 102a may remain on
the passenger's head, while the display module 101 and the face
piece 102b do not. In one example, the display module 101 may
include optics and/or components of an electronic display module
used to present images to the passenger, and the face piece 102b
may include flexible and/or soft material that makes wearing the
HMD comfortable for the passenger.
[0043] FIG. 2d illustrates how the display module 101 is stowed
near the floor, placing it underneath airbag 106, which was
deployed due to the collision. By keeping the display module 101
out of the way of the deployed airbag 106, the system reduces the
chance that the passenger may be injured due to an impact involving
the HMD. For example, if the HMD is not detached from the face,
when the airbag 106 inflates, the impact between airbag 106 and HMD
can increase the passenger's injuries. In another example, even if
the HMD is detached, if the HMD, or parts of the HMD, remain loose
in the cabin, they can hit the passenger during a collision and/or
be propelled towards the passenger by an inflating airbag. In still
another example, wearing the HMD during collision can cause a
whiplash because of the extra weight of the HMD that is added to
the head.
[0044] FIG. 2a to FIG. 2d illustrate removing at least part of the
HMD, such that the display module 101 is stowed near the floor
below the airbag 106, in a position in which it is not in the path
of the inflating airbag (when the airbag 106 is inflated). The
display module may be detached and stowed in other locations. For
example, FIG. 3a to FIG. 3d illustrate a system in which actuator
115 is connected to an HMD that is worn by a passenger, and the
actuator 115 is located on the dashboard of the vehicle (e.g., at
face or torso level). The HMD comprises a display module 111 and a
mount. The mount includes two pieces that are connected by lock
116a: a strap 112a and a face piece 112b that is attached to the
display module 111. FIG. 3b illustrates a removal of the display
module 111 and face piece 112b from the passenger's head after
receiving an indication (e.g., an indication of an imminent
collision of the vehicle). FIG. 3c illustrates a magnification of a
region of FIG. 3b, which illustrates the strap 112a being separated
from the display module 111 and face piece 112b (which is attached
to the display module 111). The display module 111 and face piece
112b may be pulled by cord 113, which is part of the actuator 115.
FIG. 3d illustrates how when the display module 111 is pulled to
the dashboard, it is placed beyond the airbag 116, which was
deployed due to the collision. By keeping the display module 111
out of the way of the deployed airbag 116, the system reduces the
chance that the passenger may be injured due to an impact involving
the display module 111 of the HMD.
[0045] FIG. 1a to FIG. 1d illustrate another example of a system in
which an HMD may be dismantled automatically. Actuator 125 is
connected to an HMD that is worn by a passenger, and the actuator
125 is located on the ceiling the vehicle. The HMD comprises a
display module 121 and mount that comprises a personal
(interchangeable) face piece 123a that is connected (by the lock
127) to a piece 123b that is attached to the display module 121.
The face piece 123a comes into contact with the face, while the
piece 123b does not come into physical contact with the passenger's
face, optionally in order to keep the HMD hygienic. FIG. 1b
illustrates a removal of the display module 121 (and piece 123b)
from the passenger's head after receiving an indication (e.g., an
indication of an imminent collision of the vehicle). FIG. 1c
illustrates a magnification of a region of FIG. 1b, which
illustrates the face piece 123a being separated from the display
module 121 and piece 123b after the lock 127 disconnected the mount
pieces (123a and 123b in this example). The display module 121 and
piece 123b may be pulled by cord 124, which is part of the actuator
115. In this illustration, the face piece 123a remains on the
passenger's head, while the display module 121 and piece 123b are
pulled to the roof of the vehicle. FIG. 1d illustrates how when the
display module 121 is pulled to the roof, it is placed above the
airbag 126, which was deployed due to the collision. By keeping the
display module 121 out of the way, the passenger is not expected to
hit the display module 121 and/or be injured by it due to body
movement caused by the collision, and/or due to the extra weight
that the HMD applies to the head.
[0046] In one embodiment, an HMD is configured to be dismantled
automatically before a collision. The HMD includes a mount, a
display module, and a lock. The mount is configured to surround the
head of a passenger who travels in an automated on-road vehicle.
FIG. 4b illustrates Microsoft.RTM. Hololens.TM. augmented reality
headset as an example of an HMD that includes a mount (173a, 173b)
configured to surround the passenger's head. The inner mount 173b
completely surrounds the passenger's head. And because the outer
mount 173a almost surrounds the passenger's head, it is also
considered herein as a mount that is configured to surround the
passenger's head.
[0047] The display module is configured to project video into the
passenger's eyes. The lock is configured to attach the display
module to the mount. The lock disconnects a portion of the display
module from a portion of the mount, responsive to receiving an
indication of an imminent collision involving the automated on-road
vehicle, such that the portion of the display module is removed
from the passenger's head before the collision, and the portion of
the mount is not removed from the passenger's head before the
collision. Additionally or alternatively, the lock is configured to
disconnect a portion of the display module from a portion of the
mount, responsive to receiving an indication of an imminent
collision involving the automated on-road vehicle; and
disconnecting the portion of the display module from the portion of
the mount involves removing the portion of the display module from
the passenger's head before the collision, and not removing the
portion of the mount from the passenger's head before the
collision.
[0048] Optionally, the HMD further includes an actuator fixed to
the vehicle. The actuator is powered by a motor and is configured
to remove the portion of the display module from the passenger's
head upon receiving the indication. Optionally, the actuator
includes at least one cord and at least one winder; the at least
one cord is connected at one side to the at least one winder and is
connected at the other side to the HMD; wherein the motor is
configured to rotate the winder in one direction to spool the cord.
Optionally, the motor is configured to rotate the winder in the
opposite direction to unspool the cord, the cord is configured to
transmit to the HMD power from a power source and video signals
from a computer; and wherein the power source and the computer are
fixed to the vehicle. In one example, the winder is an electric
wire winder having a winding reel and a motor for rolling the reel.
The speed of rolling the reel may be measured by a rotary encoder
or by other methods known in the art.
[0049] Alternatively, the HMD further includes a wireless receiver
configured to receive at least most of the video data to be
presented to the passenger over a wireless channel, and the cord is
configured to secure the HMD from hitting the passenger during
collision. In one example, the winder is an electric wire winder
having a winding reel and a motor for rolling the reel. The speed
of rolling the reel may be measured by a rotary encoder or by other
methods known in the art. Optionally, the actuator comprises at
least one cord and at least one rail, and the motor is configured
to move over the rail; and wherein the at least one cord is
connected at one side to the motor and at the other side to the
HMD. Optionally, the motor is a step motor and the rail has grooves
suited for the step motor. Alternatively, the motor is a linear
motor, and further comprising a motor encoder to control the
position of the motor on the rail. In one example, the rail is
located along the roof, along the side anti-intrusion bar/beam
around a side door, along the dashboard, inside the dashboard
towards the bonnet, and/or along the passenger's seat. The rail may
be straight or curved (as long as the motor is able to run over the
curved rail).
[0050] The following is a description of illustrations of examples
of different embodiments of systems configured to remove a
head-mounted display (HMD) from a passenger's head.
[0051] FIG. 6a illustrates a passenger sitting in a vehicle,
wearing smart glasses 141. The smart glasses 141 are connected to
actuator 143 through flexible cords 142 that may be wound or
released. Upon receiving an indication (e.g., due to an imminent
collision involving the vehicle), the actuator 143 remove the smart
glasses from the passenger's face, as illustrated in FIG. 6b. FIG.
6a and FIG. 6b illustrate one embodiment in which the HMD (smart
glasses 141) is removed from the head in the direction of the top
of the vehicle, so upon a collision the passenger will not come in
contact with the HMD. In other embodiments, the HMD may be removed
in other directions (e.g., the side of the vehicle) and/or be
removed by other types of actuators, such as a robotic arm. FIG. 7a
and FIG. 7b illustrate another example in which a different HMD,
augmented reality device 151, is removed from the head in the
upward direction using actuator 153.
[0052] In one example, the actuator comprises a robotic arm and a
flexible cord; the robotic arm is connected at one side to the
vehicle and at the other side to the flexible cord that is
connected to the HMD. Wherein the robotic arm is configured to
remove the HMD from the passenger's head upon receiving the
indication. Optionally, the robotic arm is further configured to
move in coordination with movements of the passenger's head while
the passenger is wearing the HMD. The term "robotic arm" refers
herein to any type of a robot manipulator. Current robotic arms are
not sensitive and responsive enough to move smoothly and in full
synchronization with the passenger's head while traveling in an
automated on-road vehicle. However, the combination of a robotic
arm that is connected to the HMD through a flexible cord enables a
smooth and synchronized movement with the passenger's head, because
in this configuration the robotic arm has to respond just to the
gross movements of the passenger's head, while the flexible cord
passively responds to the fine movements of the passenger's head.
The combination of a robotic arm that is connected to the HMD
through one or more flexible cords has the advantage that there is
no need to wind long cords, and therefore may be more robust in
certain circumstances.
[0053] In one example, the actuator comprises a robotic arm and at
least two-axes gimbals. The robotic arm is connected at one side to
the vehicle and at the other side to at least 2 axis gimbals that
is connected to the HMD. Wherein the robotic arm together with the
at least two-axes gimbals are configured to move in coordination
with movements of the passenger's head while the passenger is
wearing the HMD, and to remove the HMD from the passenger's head
upon receiving the indication.
[0054] In one example, the vehicle further includes an imaging
device configured to detect whether at least one of the passenger's
hands are in the way of removing the HMD from the passenger's head,
and the system is further configured to alert the passenger to move
a hand if necessary.
[0055] In another example, the vehicle further includes an imaging
device configured to detect whether at least one of the passenger's
hands are in the way of removing the HMD from the passenger's head,
and the system is further configured to remove the HMD from the
passenger's head slower that it would have removed the HMD from the
passenger's head had the passenger's hands were not in the
direction of removing the HMD.
[0056] In one embodiment, a safety system includes an HMD, a folded
airbag, and an inflation system. The HMD is configured to be worn
on a passenger's head while traveling in an automated on-road
vehicle. The folded airbag is fixed to the HMD. And the inflation
system is configured to inflate the airbag responsive to receiving
an indication indicative of an imminent collision involving the
automated on-road vehicle. There may be various options and/or
configurations for this safety system. Optionally, the inflation
system is fixed to the vehicle, and connected to the folded airbag
through a flexible hose configured to convey gas generated by the
inflation system. Alternatively, the inflation system is fixed to
the HMD. Optionally, the inflated airbag is located between the HMD
and the compartment; whereby the inflated airbag is configured to
absorb some of the energy of the head hitting the compartment.
Optionally, the HMD comprises a rigid housing configured to hold
the optics and the display in a fixed position relative to each
other, and a flexible housing located around at least some of the
rigid housing; wherein the flexible housing is configured to absorb
some of the energy of the head hitting the rigid housing during
collision. Optionally, the inflated airbag is located between the
head and the HMD; whereby the inflated airbag is configured to
absorb some of the energy of the head hitting the compartment.
[0057] FIG. 8a illustrates a system that includes an HMD 201
connected to an inflation system 203. The HMD may have various
types of airbags fixed to it, which are folded during regular
driving. Upon receiving an indication, inflation system 203
inflates the airbag fixed to the HMD 201. FIG. 8b illustrates
inflation of airbag 205, which is a frontal airbag. FIG. 8c
illustrates inflation of airbag 207, which is an airbag that
inflates in front of the face and towards the sides of the head.
FIG. 8d illustrates inflation of airbag 209, which inflates in
front of the face and downwards in order to protect the passenger's
torso.
[0058] In FIG. 8a to FIG. 8d, a tube connects between the inflation
system 203 and the respective airbags. In some examples, such a
tube may disconnect following the inflation of the airbag. Such
systems are illustrated in FIG. 9a to FIG. 9d. FIG. 9a illustrates
a system that includes an HMD 211 connected to an inflation system
213 via a tube 214. The HMD may have various types of airbags fixed
to it, which are folded during regular driving. Upon receiving an
indication, inflation system 213 inflates an airbag fixed to the
HMD 211. FIG. 9b illustrates inflation of airbag 215, which is a
frontal airbag. Note that the tube 214 detaches from the inflation
system 213 after inflation, such that the airbag 215 and HMD 211
are no longer connected to the top of the vehicle. FIG. 9c
illustrates a similar disconnecting of the tube 214 following
inflation of airbag 217, which is an airbag that inflates in front
of the face and towards the sides of the head. FIG. 9d illustrates
inflation of airbag 219, which inflates in front of the face and
downwards in order to protect the passenger's torso.
[0059] Various embodiments described herein include a processor
and/or a computer. For example, an automated driving system may be
implemented using one or more computers. The following are some
examples of various types of computers and/or processors that may
be utilized in some of the embodiments described herein.
[0060] FIG. 10a and FIG. 10b are schematic illustrations of
possible embodiments for computers (400, 410) that are able to
realize one or more of the embodiments discussed herein. The
computer (400, 410) may be implemented in various ways, such as,
but not limited to, a server, a client, a personal computer, a
network device, a handheld device (e.g., a smartphone), and/or any
other computer form capable of executing a set of computer
instructions.
[0061] The computer 400 includes one or more of the following
components: processor 401, memory 402, computer readable medium
403, user interface 404, communication interface 405, and bus 406.
In one example, the processor 401 may include one or more of the
following components: a general-purpose processing device, a
microprocessor, a central processing unit, a complex instruction
set computing (CISC) microprocessor, a reduced instruction set
computing (RISC) microprocessor, a very long instruction word
(VLIW) microprocessor, a special-purpose processing device, an
application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field
programmable gate array (FPGA), a digital signal processor (DSP), a
distributed processing entity, and/or a network processor.
Continuing the example, the memory 402 may include one or more of
the following memory components: CPU cache, main memory, read-only
memory (ROM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM) such as
synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), flash memory, static random access memory
(SRAM), and/or a data storage device. The processor 401 and the one
or more memory components may communicate with each other via a
bus, such as bus 406. Computer 410 illustrates another possible
configuration, which includes one or more of the following
components: processor 411, memory 412, and communication interface
413.
[0062] Still continuing the examples, the communication interface
(405,413) may include one or more components for connecting to one
or more of the following: an inter-vehicle network, Ethernet,
intranet, the Internet, a fiber communication network, a wired
communication network, and/or a wireless communication network.
Optionally, the communication interface (405,413) is used to
connect with the network 408. Additionally or alternatively, the
communication interface 405 may be used to connect to other
networks and/or other communication interfaces. Still continuing
the example, the user interface 404 may include one or more of the
following components: (i) an image generation device, such as a
video display, an augmented reality system, a virtual reality
system, and/or a mixed reality system, (ii) an audio generation
device, such as one or more speakers, (iii) an input device, such
as a keyboard, a mouse, an electronic pen, a gesture based input
device that may be active or passive, and/or a brain-computer
interface.
[0063] It is to be noted that when a processor (computer) is
disclosed in one embodiment, the scope of the embodiment is
intended to also cover the use of multiple processors (computers).
Additionally, in some embodiments, a processor and/or computer
disclosed in an embodiment may be part of the vehicle, while in
other embodiments, the processor and/or computer may be separate of
the vehicle. For example, the processor and/or computer may be in a
device carried by the occupant and/or remote of the vehicle (e.g.,
a server).
[0064] As used herein, references to "one embodiment" (and its
variations) mean that the feature being referred to may be included
in at least one embodiment of the invention. Moreover, separate
references to "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "another
embodiment", "still another embodiment", etc., may refer to the
same embodiment, may illustrate different aspects of an embodiment,
and/or may refer to different embodiments.
[0065] Some embodiments may be described using the verb
"indicating", the adjective "indicative", and/or using variations
thereof. Herein, sentences in the form of "X is indicative of Y"
mean that X includes information correlated with Y, up to the case
where X equals Y. Additionally, sentences in the form of
"provide/receive an indication indicating whether X happened" refer
herein to any indication method, including but not limited to:
sending/receiving a signal when X happened and not
sending/receiving a signal when X did not happen, not
sending/receiving a signal when X happened and sending/receiving a
signal when X did not happen, and/or sending/receiving a first
signal when X happened and sending/receiving a second signal X did
not happen.
[0066] Herein, "most" of something is defined herein as above 51%
of the something (including 100% of the something). A "portion" of
something refers herein to 5% to 100% of the something (including
100% of the something). Sentences of the form "a portion of the
mount" refer to a part that captures between 5% to 100% percent of
the mount. Similarly, sentences of the form "a portion of the
display module" refer to a part that may include electronics and/or
optics and/or casing, which captures between 5% to 100% percent of
the display module.
[0067] As used herein, the terms "comprises," "comprising,"
"includes," "including," "has," "having", or any other variation
thereof, indicate an open claim language that does not exclude
additional limitations. The "a" or "an" is employed to describe one
or more, and the singular also includes the plural unless it is
obvious that it is meant otherwise.
[0068] Certain features of some of the embodiments, which may have
been, for clarity, described in the context of separate
embodiments, may also be provided in various combinations in a
single embodiment. Conversely, various features of some of the
embodiments, which may have been, for brevity, described in the
context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or
in any suitable sub-combination.
[0069] Embodiments described in conjunction with specific examples
are presented by way of example, and not limitation. Moreover, it
is evident that many alternatives, modifications, and variations
will be apparent to those skilled in the art. It is to be
understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural
changes may be made without departing from the scope of the
appended claims and their equivalents.
* * * * *