U.S. patent application number 16/989652 was filed with the patent office on 2020-11-26 for modular virtual reality headset and virtual reality systems for use in public venues.
The applicant listed for this patent is Jason Alderman, Scott Sullivan, Phillip Lucas Williams. Invention is credited to Jason Alderman, Scott Sullivan, Phillip Lucas Williams.
Application Number | 20200374509 16/989652 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005006864 |
Filed Date | 2020-11-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20200374509 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Sullivan; Scott ; et
al. |
November 26, 2020 |
Modular Virtual Reality Headset and Virtual Reality Systems for Use
in Public Venues
Abstract
A modular VR system is provided with features that are
specifically beneficial to public venues. The system includes a
mask unit that is preferably custom fit to the user, and a modular,
selectively-connectable viewing unit. The viewing unit houses all
the required virtual reality optics and may be selectively secured
to the mask unit. The mask unit includes an electrical memory which
is electrically connected to the viewing unit when the two are
connected. The viewing unit includes activatable covers to
automatically protect the lenses whenever the viewing unit is
disconnected from the mask unit. The viewing unit further includes
a system to automatically adjust the distance between the lenses to
match the interpupillary distance of the user. The viewing unit
also includes an integral payment device and a handle.
Inventors: |
Sullivan; Scott; (San
Francisco, CA) ; Williams; Phillip Lucas; (Glendale,
CA) ; Alderman; Jason; (Duarte, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Sullivan; Scott
Williams; Phillip Lucas
Alderman; Jason |
San Francisco
Glendale
Duarte |
CA
CA
CA |
US
US
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005006864 |
Appl. No.: |
16/989652 |
Filed: |
August 10, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15963110 |
Apr 26, 2018 |
10764566 |
|
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16989652 |
|
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62535731 |
Jul 21, 2017 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04N 13/398 20180501;
G06Q 20/327 20130101; G07F 17/163 20130101; G06F 1/163 20130101;
H04N 13/344 20180501; G09G 5/006 20130101; G02B 27/0176
20130101 |
International
Class: |
H04N 13/344 20060101
H04N013/344; G06Q 20/32 20060101 G06Q020/32; H04N 13/398 20060101
H04N013/398; G09G 5/00 20060101 G09G005/00; G02B 27/01 20060101
G02B027/01; G06F 1/16 20060101 G06F001/16; G07F 17/16 20060101
G07F017/16 |
Claims
1) A modular virtual reality headset for use by a user having two
eyes positioned along an eye-to-eye axis and defining an
interpupilary distance value therebetween, said virtual reality
headset comprising: a display for selectively showing video content
to said user, said display being positioned within a display plane
located in front of said user's two eyes; a first lens located in a
lens plane between said display and a first of said user's two
eyes, said first lens defining a first optical center, said lens
plane being parallel to said display plane; a second lens located
in said lens plane between said display and a second of said user's
two eyes, said second lens defining a second optical center; said
first and second lenses being selectively movable within said lens
plane, a mechanism for automatically moving said lenses within said
lens plane to an aligned position wherein said first optical center
of said first lens aligns with said user's first of said two eyes
and said second optical center of said second lens aligns with said
user's second of said two eyes, wherein, at said aligned position,
the distance between said first and second optical centers of said
first and second lenses generally equals said user's interpupilary
distance value; and a controller for controlling said mechanism
based on said user's interpupilary distance value.
2. The virtual reality headset of claim 1, wherein said controller
includes a microprocessor and an electronic memory.
3. The virtual reality headset of claim 2, wherein said electronic
memory includes said interpupilary distance value of said user.
4. The virtual reality headset of claim 1, wherein said lenses are
selectively movable, by said mechanism, along a lens axis that is
within said lens plane and parallel to said eye-to-eye axis of said
user's eyes.
5. The virtual reality headset of claim 4, wherein said first lens
is secured to a first lens mount and wherein said second lens is
mounted to a second lens mount.
6. The virtual reality headset of claim 5, wherein said mechanism
includes a linear drive connected to said first and second lens
mounts and wherein activation of said linear drive causes said
first and second lens mounts, and said first and second lenses to
linearly displace with respect to each other.
7. The virtual reality headset of claim 6, wherein said linear
drive is a lead screw having right-hand threads along a first half
of its length, and left-hand threads along the remaining half of
its length, said first lens mount includes a threaded bore having
right-hand threads and sized to engagingly receive said right-hand
threads of said lead screw, said second lens mount includes a
threaded bore having left-hand threads and sized to engagingly
receive said left-hand threads of said lead screw, so that rotation
of said lead screw in a first direction causes said lens mounts and
said lenses to move linearly towards each other, and rotation of
said lead screw in an opposite second direction causes said lens
mounts and said lenses to move linearly away from each other.
8. The virtual reality headset of claim 7, further comprising an
electric drive motor connected to said lead screw, said drive motor
selectively rotating said lead screw in either a clockwise or
counter-clockwise rotation.
9. The virtual reality headset of claim 6, wherein said controller
reads said user's interpupilary distance value from said memory and
uses this information to control said drive motor so that said
first and second lenses are linearly positioned to match said read
user's interpupilary distance value.
10) A method for automatically adjusting the lenses of a virtual
reality headset to match a user's interpupilary distance value,
said virtual reality headset includes a first lens having a center
and being slidably-displaceable along a first axis, a second lens
having a center and being slidably-displaceable along said first
axis, a linear drive mechanism mechanically connected to said first
and second lenses, an electronic memory, and a controller for
controlling the operation of said drive mechanism, said method
comprising the steps of: inputting, to said electronic memory, said
user's interpupilary distance value; reading, by said controller,
said interpupilary distance value from said electronic memory; and
activating, by said controller, said drive mechanism, based on said
read interpupilary distance value, so that said drive mechanism
linearly displaces said first and second lenses along said first
axis until the distance measured between the center of said first
and second lenses matches said user's interpupilary distance
value.
11) A modular virtual reality headset for use by a user having two
eyes positioned along an eye-to-eye axis and defining an
interpupilary distance value therebetween, said virtual reality
headset comprising: a display for selectively showing video content
to said user, said display being positioned within a display plane
located in front of said user's two eyes; a first lens located in a
lens plane between said display and a first of said user's two
eyes, said first lens defining a first optical center, said lens
plane being parallel to said display plane; a second lens located
in said lens plane between said display and a second of said user's
two eyes, said second lens defining a second optical center; said
first and second lenses being selectively movable within said lens
plane, a mechanism for automatically moving said lenses within said
lens plane to an aligned position wherein said first optical center
of said first lens aligns with said user's first of said two eyes
and said second optical center of said second lens aligns with said
user's second of said two eyes, wherein, at said aligned position,
the distance between said first and second optical centers of said
first and second lenses generally equals said user's interpupilary
distance value; a controller for controlling said mechanism based
on said user's interpupilary distance value; and an electronic
memory connected to said controller for storing said interpupilary
distance value.
12. The virtual reality headset of claim 11, wherein said lenses
are selectively movable, by said mechanism, along a lens axis that
is within said lens plane and parallel to said eye-to-eye axis of
said user's eyes.
13. The virtual reality headset of claim 12, wherein said first
lens is secured to a first lens mount and wherein said second lens
is mounted to a second lens mount.
14. The virtual reality headset of claim 13, wherein said mechanism
includes a linear drive connected to said first and second lens
mounts and wherein activation of said linear drive causes said
first and second lens mounts, and said first and second lenses to
linearly displace with respect to each other.
15. The virtual reality headset of claim 14, wherein said linear
drive is a lead screw having right-hand threads along a first half
of its length, and left-hand threads along the remaining half of
its length, said first lens mount includes a threaded bore having
right-hand threads and sized to engagingly receive said right-hand
threads of said lead screw, said second lens mount includes a
threaded bore having left-hand threads and sized to engagingly
receive said left-hand threads of said lead screw, so that rotation
of said lead screw in a first direction causes said lens mounts and
said lenses to move linearly towards each other, and rotation of
said lead screw in an opposite second direction causes said lens
mounts and said lenses to move linearly away from each other.
16. The virtual reality headset of claim 15, further comprising an
electric drive motor connected to said lead screw, said drive motor
selectively rotating said lead screw in either a clockwise or
counter-clockwise rotation.
17. The virtual reality headset of claim 14, wherein said
controller reads said user's interpupilary distance value from said
memory and uses this information to control said drive motor so
that said first and second lenses are linearly positioned to match
said read user's interpupilary distance value.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 15/963,110, filed Apr. 26, 2018, entitled
"Modular Virtual Reality Headset and Virtual Reality Systems for
Use in Public Venues," which, in turn, claims the benefit of
priority to U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 62/535,731, filed
Jul. 21, 2017, entitled "Modular Virtual Reality Headset and
Virtual Reality Systems for Use in Public Venues". This current
application claims priority to and incorporates by reference in its
entirety each of the applications referenced above.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
a) Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates generally to electro-optical
headgear, such as virtual reality (VR) goggles, and more
particularly to such headgear which provide features suitable for
use by many people in public settings.
b) Description of the Related Art
[0003] Virtual Reality (VR) refers to computer-aided generation of
realistic images, sounds and other sensations for the purpose of
replicating a real environment, often simulating a user's physical
presence within a generated scene. VR headsets (or VR goggles), are
often used as the interface, allowing the wearer to enjoy the
immersive three-dimensional experience.
[0004] There are many different types of VR goggles commercially
available today, but they all generally include a head-worn
structure that supports a backlit video display, focusing lenses,
and speakers. The display may be dedicated to the device (i.e.,
non-removable), or may share the display of an inserted smartphone.
The device may include a dedicated microprocessor and battery
onboard, or may be tethered by an electrical cable to a nearby
computer and source of power.
[0005] During use, the display of the VR unit will generate light,
conveying images and other information. The transmitted light will
pass through the lenses and focus onto the retinas of the user's
eyes. These systems are very basic in nature and work well for
providing an effective illusion to the user during use.
[0006] Currently, the major companies offering products in this
field, including Oculus Rift, Microsoft, Sony, Samsung, H T C, and
Google, provide VR systems which are largely geared to personal and
individual use. Applicants have recognized that VR systems will
soon appear in more public locations, such as amusement parks,
arcades, museums, and even fitness gyms. There are several
compelling reasons for installing virtual reality systems in public
places. A major one is that a public VR system will allow mundane
content to be immersive and enveloping. Such an experience would
invariably increase visitor traffic and, in turn, increase revenue,
an exciting prospect for many public venues.
[0007] For example, providing VR headsets in a museum would provide
curators and educators a new "fun" method to connect users with
relatively complicated or difficult to understand content. Visitors
to the museum could don a VR headset and enjoy a teleportation
experience, bringing them back in time to explore a distant
historic site, for example, in apparent real time. The experience
could feature layered information, interpretation and sound. It
would become a one-on-one historic lesson, allowing the user to
shrink, fly and explore all sides of a structure or site in
immersive 3D. It could completely separate users from their
environment and even allow users to "occupy" different bodies so
they could safely explore a point in history, but from another
person's perspective.
[0008] All of this fantastic immersion has implications when it
happens in public spaces and some of these implications can be
negative. For example, a user enjoying a VR experience is typically
separated from his or her environment. This separation from the
real world puts the VR user and others nearby at risk of collision,
where nearby objects could be accidentally hit during game
play.
[0009] Another serious concern with VR headsets for use in public
spaces is durability. Current commercially available VR headsets
are complicated devices with accessible optics, delicate
electronics and moving parts--they are instruments primarily
designed for individual consumer use. Such delicate VR headsets,
for example, would not survive long if offered for public use in
the National Air and Space Museum of Washington, D.C.,--a museum
that welcomes over 9 million visitors a year, especially
considering that many of these visitors are animated school
children with the innate ambition and uncanny ability to regularly
touch every accessible surface. The delicate VR instruments would
not have a chance.
[0010] Also considering the millions of potential users of
publically available VR devices, hygiene is a legitimate concern.
Sharing VR headsets with people you don't know can be quite
unsanitary, especially when these devices include many surfaces
that user's will repeatedly contact with their hair, face and
fingers during each use. Strapping a virtual reality headset onto
your face can feel uncomfortably intimate. Face masks can get warm,
sweaty and grimy after each use, and lenses can fog up with other
people's breath. Such cleanliness issues can make the wonderful
immersive experience into a virtual world, less wonderful.
[0011] Apart from cleanliness issues, based on the fact that
components contact each user's skin and hair, sharing virtual
reality headsets can certainly carry health risks. For example,
just like handrails and payphones, headsets could hypothetically
play host some bacteria, which can survive a short period on
inanimate surfaces like plastic. To prevent infection between
subsequent users, VR headsets must be wiped down, preferably with
soap and water.
[0012] To help address hygiene concerns, at a recent VRLA
convention in Los Angeles, Calif., VR developers provided
antimicrobial wipes, disposable face-masks, and replacement foam
cushions for users of their VR headsets. Sony gave developers boxes
of PlayStation-branded wet wipes, and Valve used protective paper
covers on its Vive headsets during the convention. These solutions
may be helpful to mitigate hygiene concerns, but they were either
costly, potentially ineffective, or simply impractical for
long-term public VR use, and in some cases, would require personnel
to be present at each VR station, to apply a cleaning solution, for
example.
[0013] Another concern with providing VR headsets to a public
setting is that each person is different and many VR headsets
require adjustment to each user. For example, the head-securing
straps would likely require adjustment for each subsequent user.
Also, for ideal use, the distance between the lenses of a VR
headset should be adjusted to match the user's interpupillary
distance (IPD). Most people have an IDP between 56 mm and 72 mm.
Some VR systems utilize wide-diameter lenses which can accommodate
a greater range of IDP without requiring adjustment, but a VR
system designed for the general public will have to accommodate the
IPD of every user, including people whose IPD resides outside this
range. If the IPD is not correctly adjusted, the user of the VR
system will be forced to squint to compensate and prolonged
squinting often results in a headache and frustration.
[0014] A first object of the present invention is to provide a VR
system that is suitable for public use and which overcomes the
deficiencies of the prior art.
[0015] A second object of the present invention is to provide a VR
system for public use which automatically protects the lenses when
not in use.
[0016] Another object of the present invention is to provide a VR
system for public use which allows for automatic adjustment to fit
the user.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0017] A modular VR system is provided with features that are
specifically beneficial to public venues. The system includes a
mask unit that is preferably custom fit to the user, and a modular,
selectively-connectable viewing unit. The viewing unit houses all
the required virtual reality optics and may be selectively secured
to the mask unit. The mask unit includes an electrical memory which
is electrically connected to the viewing unit when the two are
connected. The viewing unit includes activatable covers to
automatically protect the lenses whenever the viewing unit is
disconnected from the mask unit. The viewing unit further includes
a system to automatically adjust the distance between the lenses to
match the interpupillary distance of the user. The viewing unit
also includes an integral payment device and a handle.
[0018] The features of this invention, and the manner of attaining
them, will become more apparent and the invention itself will be
better understood by reference to the following description of the
disclosed embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] FIG. 1 is a rear perspective view of an exemplary VR
headset, including a mask portion and a detachable viewer assembly
with the mask portion shown secured to the viewer assembly,
according to the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the exemplary VR
headset of FIG. 1, showing the mask portion detached from the
viewer assembly, according to the present invention;
[0021] FIG. 3 is a side perspective view of the exemplary VR
headset of FIG. 1, showing the mask portion detached from the
viewer assembly, according to the present invention;
[0022] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the exemplary VR headset of
FIG. 1, showing the connection component details of both the mask
portion and a detached viewer assembly, according to the present
invention;
[0023] FIG. 5 is an enlarged perspective view of a right-side
mechanical and electrical connection components, shown
disconnected, according to the present invention;
[0024] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an unshrouded viewer
assembly, revealing details of two lens assemblies, including an
IPD adjustment system, according to the present invention; and
[0025] FIG. 7 is an operational schematic of the VR system used in
combination with the VR headset of FIG. 1, according to the
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0026] By way of overview, the present invention solves specific
important deficiencies with current virtual reality (VR) headsets
regarding their use in a public setting. First, the present
invention is modular and includes a mask portion and a viewing
assembly. The viewing assembly includes features which help keep
the optical system of the VR headset clean and inaccessible to the
user's fingers. Second, the invention includes features which allow
payment for VR services to be made quickly and easily on the device
itself. Thirdly, the present invention allows for automatic
adjustment of a user's interpupillary distance (IPD), in response
to securing the viewing assembly to the mask portion, as described
below.
[0027] Although the present invention is directed to improvements
of so-called virtual reality headsets, the invention may be applied
to any head worn electronic device that includes a lens and an
electronic display screen, including such gear that houses
dedicated LED display screens and also gear that selectively
receives and "borrows" the display of a user's inserted smart
phone. Also, the term "virtual reality" (VR) is meant to include
so-called "augmented" (AR) and so-called "mixed reality" (MR)
headsets. Also, the term "headset" is meant to include "goggles,"
"glasses," "masks," and "headgear."
[0028] According to the present invention and referring to FIGS. 1
and 2, an exemplary VR headset 10 for public use is shown. As
described in greater detail below, an important aspect of the
present invention is that the present VR headset is modular. The
delicate optics, electronics and mechanisms are contained in a
viewing unit 12, while the face and head contacting components are
provided as a separate mask unit 14. This arrangement allows a user
to purchase in advance (or they otherwise already own) their
personal mask unit 14. Mask unit 14 includes a face shroud 16 which
is sized and shaped to fit perfectly to the user's face and straps
18 which are sized and shaped to secure mask unit 14 snuggly to the
user's head. Straps 18 may be conventional without departing from
the gist of the present invention. A tightening mechanism 20 is
shown in the figures to help the user tighten the straps 18.
Tightening mechanism 20 may be used to contain batteries to power
onboard electronics, or electronics themselves, including a small
display (not shown) which would allow nearby participants to view
in real time the virtual world being shown to the VR user.
Tightening mechanism 20 may further purposely be designed to have a
preset weight to help counter-balance the overhanging weight of
viewing unit 12, when attached. By balancing headset 10 in this
manner, mask unit 14 will not press so tightly against the user's
face and will be more comfortable to wear for longer periods of
time.
[0029] Face shroud 16 may be made from an appropriate lightweight
plastic or rubber and its construction may include conventional
features without departing from the gist of the present invention.
As well understood by those skilled in the art, the edges and
surfaces 22 of face shroud 16 which contact the user's face and
nose during use should be made from or include a pliant,
comfortable, durable and easily cleanable material (such as a
closed-cell foam-rubber, with a firm surface skin) so that when
donned on a user's face, the fit is comfortable and provides a
lightproof seal between it and the user's face. Straps 18 are
attached to appropriate locations of face shroud 16 so that when
tightened, the tension in the straps provide an even and
controllable compression force between face shroud 16 and the
user's face, as is understood by those skilled in the art.
[0030] Mechanical Registration (with Magnets):
[0031] According to the present invention and referring now to
FIGS. 3, 4 and 5, mask unit 14 includes a modular-receiving end 24
(which is opposite face-contacting edges and surfaces 22), defining
a connection edge 25, and two laterally opposing docking bosses, a
left boss 26, and a right boss 28. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, each
boss 26, 28 includes at least one boss magnet 30 (preferably two
magnets are used). Boss magnets 30 are arranged with one pole
facing away from the user's face towards a connected viewing unit
12. Magnets 30 may be any suitable strong magnet, but are
preferably rare earth type magnets, such as samarium cobalt (SmCo)
and neodymium-iron-boron (NdFeB), since rare earth magnets are very
strong relative to their size. Viewer unit 12 includes two docking
recesses, a left recess 32, and a right recess 34. These recesses
are sized, shaped and positioned on viewer unit 12 to align with
and snuggly receive respective docking bosses 26, 28, when viewing
unit 12 is connected to mask unit 14, as explained below.
[0032] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, and according to the invention,
at least one, but preferably two recess magnets 36, similar in
size, type and strength to the above-mentioned boss magnets 30 are
positioned within each recess 32, 34. Recess magnets 36 of left
recess 32 are positioned to align with boss magnets 30 of left boss
26. Similarly, recess magnets 36 of right recess 34 are positioned
to align with boss magnets 30 of right boss 28. Boss magnets 30 and
recess magnets 36 are used to provide a securing tension force when
bosses 26, 28 of mask unit 14 are inserted into respective recesses
32, 34 of viewing unit 12. Of course, boss magnets 30 and recess
magnets 36 are oriented so that a pull force is generated between
them. The pull force of the magnets will cause viewing unit 12 to
"snap" into registered mechanical engagement with mask unit 14 when
bosses 26, 28 of mask unit 14 are pushed into respective recesses
32, 34 of viewing unit 12, as shown in FIG. 1. An appropriate seal
40 is provided along a connection edge 25. Seal 40 may be located
on mask unit 14, viewing unit 12 or both. Seal 40 prevents light,
dust and moisture from entering past the connection edge 25, when
viewing unit 14 is engaged with mask unit 12, as shown in FIG.
1.
[0033] Since it is not uncommon for a user enjoying an immersive
experience to be somewhat animated, moving their head and body
around in their virtual world, magnets 30, 36 must be strong enough
to prevent accidental separation of mask unit and viewing unit
during the user's dynamic motions.
[0034] Electrical Connection:
[0035] Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 5, and according to the
invention, right boss 28 further supports a boss electrical
connector 50. Right recess 34 includes a recess electrical
connector 52. Recess connector 52 and boss connector 50 are
positioned to electrically engage with each other when right boss
28 is fully inserted into right recess 34. Any of many conventional
electrical connectors may be used here without departing from the
gist of the present invention. For example, a suitable connector
for this application is a connector called a "Pogo Pin" connector,
manufactured by Everett Charles Technologies, LLC. of Fontana,
Calif. Regardless, the purpose of boss connector 50 and recess
connector 52 is to provide selective and controlled electrical
communication between mask unit 14 and viewing unit 12 when the two
units are connected to each other, as further described below.
[0036] As shown in FIG. 7 (which is described in greater detail
below) and according to the present invention, mask unit 14
includes an electrical mask-memory circuit 112, preferably located
within right boss 28. Mask memory circuit 112 (including any
required supporting circuitry) is electrically connected to the
terminals of boss electrical connector 50 (the actual connection is
not shown in the figures, but such conventional electrical
connection is well known by those skilled in the art).
[0037] As described in greater detail below (in FIG. 7), when
viewing unit 12 is snapped into engagement with mask unit 14,
electrical connection between mask memory circuit 112 and a
microprocessor 100 of viewing unit 12 is made through electrical
connectors 50, 52. The purpose of mask memory circuit 112 is to
identify mask unit 14, and it's user, as explained below.
[0038] Viewing Unit:
[0039] Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 6, and according to the
invention, viewing unit 12 is shown including two lens assemblies,
a left lens assembly 60, and a right lens assembly 62. Left lens
assembly includes a left lens 64, a left lens protector 66, a left
viewing shroud 68 and a left display 70. Similarly, right lens
assembly 60 includes a right lens 72, a right lens protector 74, a
right viewing shroud 76 and a right display 78.
[0040] In operation of conventional VR systems, as is understood by
those skilled in the art, a carefully generated image is displayed
on each display 70, 78. Each lens 64, 72 is used to allow the
user's eyes to independently view each respect display in focus and
without distortion. Each lens shroud 68, 76 is used to ensure that
no external light enters the system during use. The present VR
system operates similarly, but includes important features that
help overcome deficiencies of the prior art VR systems, especially
those systems which are intended for public use.
[0041] Lens Protection:
[0042] According to the invention, each lens is covered by lens
protector 66, 74, which may employ any of several different
mechanical covering structures, but is preferably a structure
similar to the structure of a conventional mechanical iris (or
diaphragm) used to control the passage of light through a camera
lens in photography.
[0043] As is well known, this diaphragm structure is made up of
radially disposed, individually pivotal petal-like plates 80. Each
plate, which is made from strong lightweight thin metal or an
appropriate opaque plastic (such as Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
(ABS)) may selectively and simultaneously pivot between a deployed
orientation, wherein collectively, the radial plates effectively
cover and protect the entire surface of the otherwise exposed lens,
and a retracted position, wherein each plate 80 pivots past the
edge of the lens so that the entire lens becomes exposed and
functional. Other effective shutter-like mechanisms may be employed
to selectively cover and protect lenses 64, 72, when viewing unit
12 is disconnected from mask unit 14, including a single panel or
plate (not shown) that slides across each lens, when instructed to
do so, to protect the lenses, and then slides back to reveal the
lenses when desired. Plates 80 are made to handle accidental
contact with a user's finger without damage.
[0044] Whichever type of lens protector is used to selectively
protect the lenses, each lens protector is preferably automatically
operated, either solely mechanically, or mechanically as driven
using an electromagnetic actuator, such as a servo-motor, a
solenoid, or an electromagnetic linear drive. Other drive devices
may be used as well, as is well understood by those skilled in the
art. In one contemplated all mechanical arrangement, all radial
plates 80 of protectors 66, 74 are spring biased using a spring
linkage (not shown) to a closed and protective orientation, as
shown in FIG. 4, but when a user engages viewer unit 12 with mask
unit 14, a projection (not shown) on mask 14 aligns and engages
with the spring linkage and mechanically forces the linkage to open
all radial plates 80 together. This allows the user to see through
lenses 64, 72 only when viewer unit 12 is properly secured to mask
14. When viewer unit 12 is later disconnected from mask unit 14,
the projection of mask unit 14 disengages from the spring linkage
of viewer unit 12, which causes the spring-biased linkage to close
the radial plates 80 to once again protect lenses 64, 72, as
before.
[0045] It is preferred that lens protectors 66, 74, whichever type
are used, are automatically driven by a driver and a lens iris
control circuit 110 (as shown in FIG. 7, described below), which is
in turn, controlled by microprocessor 100.
[0046] Power and Computer Connection:
[0047] As shown in FIGS. 1-4, viewing unit 12 may include an
electrical umbilical cord 90, which preferably extends vertically
up to a point on the ceiling so that the viewing units may hang
from the ceiling, when not being used. Once a viewing unit 12 is
connected to a mask unit 14 by a user, umbilical cord 90 may supply
all necessary power and computer data signals for operation of
viewing unit 12. Depending on the particular venue, this
ceiling-suspended arrangement is preferred since it keeps power and
computer cords safely out of the way. This system is similar to how
automotive repair garages typically suspend air supply hoses and
various oil hoses from the ceiling of the garage. Furthermore, a
nearby central controller may be used to activate a winch-like
device to retract all or select viewer units 12 up higher towards
the ceiling out of reach when the units are not being used, to
avoid tampering or damage by miscreants. Since each viewing unit 12
is electrically tethered and continuously connected, no batteries
are required and each unit is fully powered and ready to be used at
anytime. The electrical umbilical cord 90 preferably includes all
required power and data cables, as well as a strong cut-resistant
support cable that will ensure that the weight and handling of
viewing unit 12 will not damage or break the power or data
cables.
[0048] This ceiling mounted arrangement, for example, could be
suitable for such venues as a fitness gym, whereby a viewing unit
12 may be suspended above each running treadmill and elliptical
machines, high enough to be out of the way, unless requested to be
used by the user or an operator, at which point, the selected
viewing unit 12 would be lowered from the ceiling to a point that
is suitable for use by the user. According to the invention, it is
preferred that umbilical cord 90 includes a spring-biased length of
slack cord which would provide additional cord length, if suddenly
needed, such as if a user suddenly stepped off an exercise machine
to a lower point (the floor). Also, if required, viewing unit 12
may be automatically detachable from mask unit 14 if the magnitude
of tension generated along umbilical cord 90 exceeds the pulling
force of boss and recess magnets 30, 36--the magnets will just
release the two units, allowing the delicate viewing unit 12 to
simply just swing safely in the air, until it can be
reattached.
[0049] Of course, alternative to using umbilical cord 90, all power
and computer equipment for viewing unit 12 may be provided on board
the unit itself in the form of a battery 104 (see FIG. 7), but this
requires that the batteries be continuously replaced and recharged,
ready for use at all times.
[0050] Handle:
[0051] Each viewing unit 12 preferably includes a handle 91 on the
front surface 92 to help the user or the operator handle a viewing
unit when connecting and disconnecting it from mask unit 14.
[0052] Payment Reader:
[0053] According to another feature of the present invention, as
shown in FIGS. 1-4, a charge-card reader 93 is provided on viewer
unit 12, so that a user may pay for a VR experience directly on the
unit itself. The charge card transaction may be completed using
connected server via umbilical cord 90, or wirelessly using any
appropriate means, such as WiFi, or Bluetooth.RTM.. The charge card
reader shown is an older conventional sliding type whereby the user
slides his or her credit card so that the reader may read the
magnetic information strip located on the rear of the card. This is
well known by those in the art and the details are beyond the scope
of the present invention. Other readers may be used, such as the
insertion type reader which is designed to read the smart chip
located on newer type payment cards. Also, onboard WiFi and
Bluetooth circuits may be used to receive or process payment
through the use of smart devices, also well known by those in the
art. According to this feature of the invention, it does not matter
how payment is made, just that the reading device to carry out the
payment is provided integrally with the viewing unit 12.
[0054] Interpupillary Distance Control:
[0055] According to another feature of the present invention and
referring to FIG. 6, left lens assembly 60 and right lens assembly
62 are slidably mounted with respect to each other. A slide bushing
94 is secured to a portion of left viewing shroud 68 and right
viewing shroud 76 and are both sized and positioned to receive a
slide-bar 96. Slide bar 96 is positioned so that each lens assembly
60, 62 may slide side to side, laterally with respect to the
viewing axis of the lenses, as illustrated by Arrow 97 in FIG. 6.
With this arrangement, the lateral distance between the lenses may
be adjusted by sliding the two lens assemblies 60, 62 along slide
bar 96. Although only a single slide bar 96 is shown, additional
parallel slide bars (not shown) may be used in a similar manner to
provide stability and support to lens assemblies 60, 62.
[0056] To help control the lateral displacement of lens assemblies
60, 62, a lead-screw 97 positioned parallel to slide bar 96 is
attached to each lens assembly 60, 62. Lead-screw 97 includes
reverse threads along half its length. A threaded nut 98 is affixed
to each lens assembly. Each nut is threaded to match the
thread-direction of lead-screw 97, depending on the side (either
right hand or left hand threads). An appropriate servo motor 99 is
mounted adjacent lead-screw 97 and is mechanically connected so
that activation of servo motor 99 causes lead-screw 97 to rotate,
in either direction, depending on the driven rotation of servo
motor 99. When lead screw rotates in a first direction, the
opposing threads will cause lens assemblies to displace laterally
towards each other, thereby decreasing the distance between lenses
64, 72. When lead screw 97 rotates in the opposite direction, lens
assemblies displace laterally away from each other, thereby
increasing the distance between the lenses 64, 72. With this
arrangement, as described below, control of the operation of servo
motor 99 will thereby effectively control the distance between the
lenses. This method can be used to quickly move the lenses to match
the Interpupillary Distance (IPD) of the particular user.
[0057] In Operation:
[0058] Referring to FIG. 7, and in operation, according to one
embodiment of the invention, viewing unit 12 includes a
microprocessor 100, a main memory 102 connected to microprocessor
100, and a battery 104 connected to all devices that require power.
A video/audio content 106 is connected to microprocessor 100. A
mask memory 112 and a payment system 108 are connected to
microprocessor 100. Microprocessor 100 is further connected to an
IPD motor driver circuit 114 and a lens Iris control circuit
110.
[0059] When a user wishes to use a viewing unit 12 to enjoy an
immersive virtual experience at a public venue, such as at a
fitness gym, he or she either rents a mask unit 14 at a nearby
location, or preferably brings her own mask. Her mask would have
been properly fitted by a technician to ensure that the mask fits
her head and face. During the fitting process, the technician would
use known devices to accurately measure the user's interpupillary
distance and uploads this information onto mask memory 112, using
known recording devices. In the case where the user requires the
use of prescription eyewear, the personal mask unit 14 may also be
provided with supplemental lenses, so that the user does not have
to wear her glasses when wearing her mask.
[0060] Since the user preferably owns his or her own mask unit 14
that properly fits his or her face and includes at least
information regarding the user's interpupillary distance stored in
the onboard mask memory 112. The user reaches up and grabs the
handle 91 of a select viewing unit 12 he or she wishes to connect
with, and pulls the unit down. As mentioned above, the viewing unit
12 is preferably tethered to the ceiling by umbilical cord 90. An
appropriate deploying device automatically provides required slack
in the umbilical cord for the user to access the viewing unit.
[0061] Once viewing unit 12 is accessible, the user will follow
instructions to pay for the use of the VR device. Of course,
payment may be made in various conventional ways, including the use
of their smartphone, or credit card, or other. The present
invention integrates a charge card reader 93 with viewing unit 12
to receive and read a credit card of the user. The user would
simply slide (or insert) their credit card into charge card reader
93 to pay for the VR service. Once payment is made, however it is
made, a confirm payment signal is sent from payment processing
system 108 to microprocessor 100, located either on board the
select viewing unit 12, or as described above, to a nearby
server.
[0062] Microprocessor 100 then sounds an onboard speaker 116 to
instruct the user to connect viewing unit 12 into their mask unit
114. The user aligns bosses 26, 28 of his or her mask unit 14 with
recesses 32, 34 and then inserts the bosses into the recesses until
boss magnets 30 "find" recess magnets 36 and the attraction force
pulls viewing unit 12 firmly into engagement with mask unit 14. At
this point, boss electrical connector 50 makes electrical
connection with recess electrical connector 52. This connection
effectively allows data located in mask memory 112 to be read by
microprocessor 100, located either on viewing unit 12 or a nearby
server (not shown).
[0063] Once viewing unit 12 is connected to the user's mask unit
14, microprocessor 100 reads the interpupillary distance
information from mask memory 112 and stores it in main memory 102.
Microprocessor 100 then uses this information to instruct IPD motor
control circuit 114 to drive servo motor 99 to rotate lead screw 97
a prescribed amount. This action causes left and right lens
assemblies 60, 62 to laterally displace until the distance between
lenses 64, 72 equals the user's interpupillary distance, as
indicated by the data stored in mask memory 112, and subsequently
read by microprocessor 100. Microprocessor 100 also uses the
electrical connection to mask unit 14 to detect that mask unit 14
is connected to viewing unit 12. Should the electrical connection
be broken, microprocessor 100 will immediately detect the
separation.
[0064] Of course, mask memory 112 may include any information,
including a user ID, instead of actual interpupillary distance
information. The user ID can then be read by microprocessor 100 and
compared with stored information regarding that particular user
located in a nearby server. The stored information on the server
may include the user's interpupillary distance information, and
perhaps also information regarding which video content is preferred
by the user and which content has already been viewed.
[0065] Once lenses 64, 72 have been properly adjusted to fit the
user, microprocessor will cause left and right lens protectors 66,
74 to open, as described above, and begin to display video content
from a video/audio content source 106 onto displays 70, 78. Audio
content would similarly be played on speakers or headphones 116, as
understood by those skilled in the art. The user may now enjoy
their VR experience.
[0066] The user may disconnect viewing unit 12 from his or her mask
unit 14 simply by using handle 91 to pull the two units apart until
the pulling force overcomes the attraction force of boss and recess
magnets. Once separated, electrical connection between viewing unit
12 and mask unit 14 will be lost and microprocessor 100 will
instantly detect this and instruct lens iris control 110 to close
plates 80 to cover and protect lenses 64, 72. Additionally,
detection that viewing unit 12 is separated from mask unit 14,
microprocessor 100 may instruct the ceiling mechanism to engage and
raise viewing unit 12 up towards the ceiling to be safely stowed
until requested once again.
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