Apple Patent | Head-Mounted Display Apparatus For Retaining A Portable Electronic Device With Display

Patent: Head-Mounted Display Apparatus For Retaining A Portable Electronic Device With Display

Publication Number: 20200304619

Publication Date: 20200924

Applicants: Apple

Abstract

Head-mounted display systems and methods of operation that allow users to couple and decouple a portable electronic device such as a handheld portable electronic device with a separate head-mounted device (e.g., temporarily integrates the separate devices into a single unit) are disclosed. The portable electronic may be physically coupled to the head-mounted device such that the portable electronic device can be worn on the user’s head. The portable electronic device may be operatively coupled to the head-mounted device such that the portable electronic device and head mounted device can communicate and operate with one another. Each device may be allowed to extend its features and/or services to the other device for the purpose of enhancing, increasing and/or eliminating redundant functions between the head-mounted device and the portable electronic device.

[0001] This application is a continuation of patent application Ser. No. 16/797,461, filed Feb. 21, 2020, which is a continuation of patent application Ser. No. 16/430,320, filed Jun. 3, 2019, which is a continuation of patent application Ser. No. 16/418,906, filed May 21, 2019, which is a continuation of patent application Ser. No. 16/213,728, filed Dec. 7, 2018, which is a continuation of patent application Ser. No. 15/819,593, filed Nov. 21, 2017, which is a continuation of patent application Ser. No. 15/814,195, filed Nov. 15, 2017, which is a continuation of patent application Ser. No. 15/684,754, filed Aug. 23, 2017, which is a continuation of patent application Ser. No. 15/451,230, filed Mar. 6, 2017, which is a continuation of patent application Ser. No. 15/274,901, filed Sep. 23, 2016, which is a continuation of patent application Ser. No. 15/246,340, filed Aug. 24, 2016, which is a continuation of patent application Ser. No. 15/215,122, filed Jul. 20, 2016, which is a continuation of patent application Ser. No. 14/862,036, filed Sep. 22, 2015, which is a division of patent application Ser. No. 14/604,059, filed Jan. 23, 2015, which is a continuation of patent application Ser. No. 12/242,911, filed Sep. 30, 2008, which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entireties. This application claims the benefit of and claims priority to patent application Ser. No. 16/797,461, filed Feb. 21, 2020, patent application Ser. No. 16/430,320, filed Jun. 3, 2019, Patent application Ser. No. 16/418,906, filed May 21, 2019, patent application Ser. No. 16/213,728, filed Dec. 7, 2018, patent application Ser. No. 15/819,593, filed Nov. 21, 2017, patent application Ser. No. 15/814,195, filed Nov. 15, 2017, Patent application Ser. No. 15/684,754, filed Aug. 23, 2017, patent application Ser. No. 15/451,230, filed Mar. 6, 2017, patent application Ser. No. 15/274,901, filed Sep. 23, 2016, Patent application Ser. No. 15/246,340, filed Aug. 24, 2016, patent application Ser. No. 15/215,122, filed Jul. 20, 2016, patent application Ser. No. 14/862,036, filed Sep. 22, 2015, patent application Ser. No. 14/604,059, filed Jan. 23, 2015, and patent application Ser. No. 12/242,911, filed Sep. 30, 2008.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This invention is directed to a head-mounted device constructed to receive a portable electronic device having a screen.

[0003] Using head-mounted devices, a user may view media provided by a portable electronic device. For example, a user may couple a personal electronic device, such as the iPod.TM. available from Apple Inc. of Cupertino, Calif., or the iPhone.TM. also available from Apple Inc. of Cupertino, Calif., to the head-mounted device via a cable or wire. Such a configuration can allow the user to view media on a private display, while the media is provided by a personal handheld device.

[0004] Sometimes, however, a wired connection may be inconvenient and cumbersome for the user in certain situations (e.g., the user must separately hold multiple devices and deal with cables).

[0005] In addition to being unwieldy, the coupled system often utilizes redundant features, which are not necessary when using the devices together. By way of example, each device utilizes a display screen, which adds cost, size, weight, and complexity to the entire system.

[0006] Accordingly, there is a need for an improved head-mounted display system, particularly a system that temporarily integrates or merges both mechanically and electronically a head-mounted device with a portable electronic device.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] In accordance with the invention, a head-mounted display system and method of operation are provided in which the system can allow users to couple and decouple a portable electronic device with a head-mounted device. The portable electronic device may for example be physically and/or operatively coupled and decoupled with the head-mounted device. In some embodiments, the two devices may be considered temporarily integrated.

[0008] In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, there is provided a head-mounted device that is worn on a user’s head. The head-mounted device may include a frame that is configured to physically receive and carry a portable electronic device. The frame may place a display screen of the portable electronic device in front of the user’s eyes. The display screen of the portable electronic device may act as the primary display screen of the head-mounted device such that the display screen of the portable electronic device is primarily used to view image based content when the head-mounted display device is worn on the user’s head.

[0009] In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, there is provided a method of controlling a portable electronic device having a screen capable of presenting image based content, wherein the portable electronic device presents the image based content in a normal viewing mode that substantially fills the screen during normal use of the portable electronic device. The method may include detecting a connection with a head-mounted device that is capable of being worn on a user’s head, wherein the connection indicates that the portable electronic device is operatively coupled and physically carried by the head-mounted device. The method may also include switching to a head-mounted mode on the screen of the portable electronic device.

[0010] In accordance with yet another embodiment of the invention, there is provided a method for displaying image based content on a head-mounted device. The method may include coupling a portable electronic device to the head-mounted device such that a screen of the portable electronic device faces a user. The method may also include providing an instruction to play back image based content stored on the portable electronic device, wherein the image based content is displayed on the screen of the portable electronic device. The method may also include adjusting the image based content displayed on the screen for close up viewing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The above and other features of the present invention, its nature and various advantages will be more apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

[0012] FIG. 1 shows a simplified diagram of a head-mounted display system in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

[0013] FIGS. 2A and 2B show simplified schematic diagrams of a head-mounted display system in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

[0014] FIGS. 3A-3C show perspective views of a head-mounted device in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

[0015] FIG. 4 shows an alternative configuration of a head-mounted device in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

[0016] FIG. 5 shows a configuration for sliding a portable electronic device into a head-mounted device in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

[0017] FIGS. 6A and 6B show top views of two exemplary head-mounted display systems in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

[0018] FIG. 7 shows a side view of a head-mounted device coupled to a portable electronic device in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

[0019] FIGS. 8A-8D show illustrative features for exemplary head-mounted devices in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

[0020] FIGS. 9A-9C show a head-mounted device in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

[0021] FIGS. 10A and 10B shows an exemplary portable electronic device in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

[0022] FIGS. 11A-11F show several examples of creating image frames within a display screen in a head-mounted display system in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

[0023] FIGS. 12A-12C show some exemplary display configurations for a head-mounted display system when displaying external and stored image based content in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

[0024] FIG. 13 shows a simplified block diagram of an illustrative head-mounted display system in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

[0025] FIG. 14 shows a flowchart of an illustrative process for displaying image based content on a portable electronic device in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

[0026] FIG. 15 shows a flowchart of an illustrative process for adjusting image based content displayed on a portable electronic device in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

[0027] FIG. 16 shows a flowchart of an illustrative process for displaying image based content on a head-mounted device in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

[0028] FIGS. 17A and 17B show flowcharts of an illustrative process for displaying external image based content in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

[0029] FIG. 18 shows a process for displaying images in a head-mounted display apparatus to a user in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

[0030] FIG. 19 shows a process for displaying images in a head-mounted display apparatus to a user in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

[0031] FIG. 20 shows a process for displaying images on a screen of a portable electronic device in accordance with embodiments of the invention;* and*

[0032] FIG. 21 shows a process for displaying one or more image frames on a screen of a portable electronic device coupled to a head-mounted display apparatus in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0033] This invention generally pertains to head-mounted display systems and methods of operation that allow users to couple and decouple a portable electronic device such as a handheld portable electronic device with a separate head-mounted device (e.g., temporarily integrates the separate devices into a single unit). The head-mountable device may be configured to be worn on a user’s head. The portable electronic device, on the other hand, may be configured to provide specific features/applications for use by a user. Examples of portable electronic devices include media devices, personal digital assistants (“PDAs”), telephones, and the like.

[0034] One aspect of the invention relates to physically coupling (e.g., mechanically) the portable electronic device to the head-mounted device such that the portable electronic device can be worn on the user’s head. In some embodiments, the head-mounted device may include a support structure that supports, secures, and carries the portable electronic device (e.g., physically integrated as a single unit). The support structure may also help place a display of the portable electronic device relative to a user’s eyes when the integrated system is worn on the user’s head. In one example, the support structure helps define a docking area for receiving and retaining the portable electronic device.

[0035] Another aspect of the invention relates to operatively coupling (e.g., electronically) the portable electronic device to the head-mounted device such that the portable electronic device and head mounted device can communicate and operate with one another. The head mounted device may include, for example, interface mechanisms that enable communication and operatibility between the portable electronic device and the head-mounted device. The interface mechanisms may, for example, include electrical mechanisms such as connectors or chips that provide wired or wireless communications. In some embodiments, the head-mounted device may include a connector that receives a corresponding connector of the portable electronic device. The connector may, for example, be located within a docking area of the head mounted device such that the portable electronic device operatively connects when the portable electronic device is placed within the docking area. The interface mechanisms may also include optical interface mechanisms, such as lenses, etc., that provide optical communications for proper viewing of a display of the portable electronic device.

[0036] Another aspect of the invention relates to allowing each device to extend its features and/or services to the other device for the purpose of enhancing, increasing and/or eliminating redundant functions between the head-mounted device and the portable electronic device physically and/or operatively coupled thereto. In some embodiments, the head mounted device utilizes components of the portable electronic device while in other embodiments, the portable electronic device utilizes components of the head mounted device. In one example, the head-mounted device utilizes the display of the portable electronic device as the primary display for displaying media (e.g., image based content). That is, the head-mounted device does not include a main viewing display screen and instead utilizes the screen of the portable electronic device to act as the main or primary display when the portable electronic device is coupled thereto.

[0037] Embodiments of the invention are discussed below with reference to FIGS. 1-21. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes, as the invention extends beyond these limited embodiments.

[0038] FIG. 1 shows a simplified diagram of a head-mounted display system 100, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The head-mounted display system 100 can include head-mounted device 102 and portable electronic device 104 that are separate devices which can be temporarily coupled together to form an integrated unit, which can be worn on a user’s head.

[0039] Portable electronic device 104 may be widely varied. For example, portable electronic device 104 may be configured to provide specific features and/or applications for use by a user. Portable electronic device 104 may be a light weight and small form factor device so that it can easily be supported on a user’s head. In most embodiments, the portable electronic device includes a display 106 for viewing image based content.

[0040] In one embodiment of the present invention, portable electronic device 104 may be a handheld electronic device such as a portable media player, cellular telephone, internet-capable device, a personal digital assistant (“PDA”), any other portable electronic device, or any combination thereof. In another embodiment of the present invention, portable electronic device 104 can be a device that has the combined functionalities of a portable media player and a cellular telephone, such as an iPhone.TM. sold by Apple Inc. of Cupertino, Calif. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the portable electronic device 104 can be a dedicated media player such as an iPod.TM. sold by Apple Inc. of Cupertino, Calif. Examples of iPods.TM. may include Touch.TM., Nano.TM., Classic.TM., and the like.

[0041] Head-mounted device 102 may be configured to be worn on a user’s head. The head-mounted device 102 may be configured to receive and carry portable electronic device 104 in order to create head-mounted display system 100. In some embodiments, head-mounted device 102 may include a frame or carrier 108 that supports and holds the portable electronic device 104 thereby allowing portable electronic device 104 to be worn on a user’s head (e.g., glasses/goggles form factor). As should be appreciated, because portable electronic device 104 can be carried by head-mounted device 102, the user can relax while viewing image based content on the head-mounted device because he does not have to hold onto the portable electronic device.

[0042] The frame or carrier 108 may for example be configured to be situated in front of a user’s face. As a result, screen 106 of the portable electronic device 104 may be oriented towards the user’s eyes when head-mounted display system 100 (the head-mounted device 102 including the portable electronic device 104) is worn on the user’s head. In one embodiment, the head-mounted device 102 may not include a main viewing display but may rather rely on screen 106 as the primary display and/or the only display of system 100. A primary display may be the primary component used for displaying image based content (e.g., media such as movies, TV shows, and graphical user interfaces associated with various software applications) when the system is worn on the user’s head. By using such a configuration, head-mounted display system 100 may reduce redundancies, which can add cost, weight and complexity to the system.

[0043] The frame or carrier 108 may define or include a docking area 110 for receiving and retaining the portable electronic device 104. The docking area 110 may be widely varied. The docking area 110 define an area into which a portion or the entire portable electronic device 104 may be placed. The docking area 110 may also include one or more retention features for holding and securing the portable electronic device within the docking area. The docking area may be defined by walls that surround some portion of the portable electronic device (e.g., exterior surfaces). The retention features may for example include rails, channels, snaps, detents, latches, catches, magnets, friction couplings, doors, locks, flexures, and the like.

[0044] In one embodiment, the system 100 may include a detection mechanism 116a and/or 116b that provides inputs to the portable electronic device when it is carried by the head mounted device so that the portable electronic device is configured for head-mounted use. By way of example, the detection mechanism 116 may be an electrical connection, a sensor such as a proximity sensor or infrared (“IR”) detector and/or the like. In one example, once the portable electronic device is placed relative to the head mounted device, the portable electronic device goes into a head mounted mode (i.e., configures the display screen for HMD viewing).

[0045] The head-mounted display system 100 can include a communication interface that provides data and/or power communications between the portable electronic device 104 and the head-mounted device 102. The communication interface may be wired or wireless. In some embodiments, the head mounted device 102 may include a connector 118a that mates with a corresponding connector 118b of the portable electronic device when the portable electronic device is placed within the docking area 110.

[0046] The protocol under which the devices 102 and 104 communicate via the communication interface may be widely varied. By way of example, the communication protocol may be a master/slave communication protocol, server/client communication protocol, peer/peer communication protocol, and the like. Using a master/slave communication protocol, one of the devices is a master and the other is a slave. The master controls the slave. Using a client/server communication protocol, a server program responds to requests from a client program. The server program may operate on the portable electronic device or the head mounted device. Using a peer to peer communication protocol either of the two devices can initiate a communication session.

[0047] Generally, the communication session begins when the two devices are coupled together and powered up. In some cases, the devices may go immediately into a HMD mode when connected. For example, based on a default settings, the portable electronic device may be configured for close up head mounted viewing (either directly or via instructions from the head mounted device 102). Further, input devices, output devices, sensors, and other electrical systems on both devices may be activated or deactivated based on the default settings. Alternatively, the user may be prompted with a control menu for setting up the system when they are operatively coupled together via the communication interface 107.

[0048] Head-mounted display system 100 can include a variety of features, which can be provided by one or both devices of the system when they are connected and in communications with one another. For example, each device may include one or more of the following components: processors, display screen, controls (e.g., buttons, switches, touch pads, and/or screens), camera, receiver, antenna, microphone, speaker, batteries, optical subassembly, sensors, memory, communication systems, input/output (“I/O”) systems, connectivity systems, cooling systems, connectors, and/or the like. If activated, these components may be configured to work together or separately depending on the needs of the system. In some cases, features may be turned off entirely if not needed by the system.

[0049] In some embodiments, the head-mounted device 102 may provide additional features for the head-mounted display system 100. In one example, the head-mounted device 102 can provide additional functionality to the portable electronic device 104. For instance, the head-mounted device 102 may include buttons, switches, dials, touch devices, or any other suitable controls. These controls may match or mimic the controls found on the portable electronic device. In addition, the head-mounted device 102 can include a battery to extend the life of the portable electronic device 104. Furthermore, the head-mounted device 102 can include a cooling system for cooling down the portable electronic device 104. Moreover, the head-mounted-device 102 can include memory, for example, to store image based content, which can be displayed on the screen 106 of the portable electronic device 104. Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that any other suitable functionality may be extended including additional circuitry, processors, input/output, optics, and/or the like.

[0050] In some embodiments, the system including one or both of the head-mounted device 102 and the portable electronic device can include sensors to detect various signals. For example, accelerometers on the head-mounted device and/or the portable electronic device can be used to detect the user’s head movements. In this example, the head-mounted device 102 can associate a particular head movement with a command for controlling an operation of the head-mounted display system 100. As yet another example, the head-mounted system 100 can utilize a proximity sensor on one or both of the head mounted device and portable electronic device to detect and identify the relationship between the two devices or to detect and identify things in the outside environment. As yet another example, the head-mounted system 100 can utilize a microphone on one or both of the head mounted device and portable electronic device to detect and identify voice commands that can be used to control the portable electronic device 104. As yet another example, the head-mounted system 100 can utilize a camera on one or both of the head mounted device and portable electronic device to capture images and/or video. The image based content may for example be viewed on the display of the head mounted display system. In one embodiment, the image based content may be viewed in addition or alternatively to image based media content playing on the display. In one example, the captured content may be viewed in a picture in picture window along with the media based content.

[0051] While the two devices 102 and 104 may provide redundant features to the system 100, in one embodiment, at least some of the redundancies are reduced or eliminated. For example, if the portable electronic device includes a camera then the head mounted device may not. Additionally or alternatively, if the portable electronic device does not include a microphone then the head mounted device may include one. As should be appreciated, this may reduce cost and complexity of the system 100. It may also keep the form factor of both devices 102 and 104 small and lightweight. In addition, it can extend the functionalities of each device.

[0052] In some embodiments, the head-mounted device 102 may not include a primary display but rather rely on a screen 106 of the portable electronic device 104 as the primary display and/or the only display of the system 100. A primary display may, for example, be the primary component used for viewing image based content when the system is worn on the user’s head. Image based content may for example include but not limited to media such as movies, TV shows, and graphical user interfaces associated with various software applications.

[0053] In accordance with one embodiment, when the portable electronic device 104 is used in the head mounted device 102, the size and possibly the resolution of the image based content being displayed on the screen 106 may be adjusted for close up viewing (e.g., via the detection mechanism or the connection interface). For example, the image based content may be displayed in a viewing region that is configured smaller than the actual screen size (e.g., due to how close it is placed to the user’s eyes) and/or the resolution may be increased/decreased relative to normal portable electronic device viewing to provide the best close up viewing experience. In one implementation, the viewing region is configured to fill the entire field of view of the user. In another implementation, the viewing region is configured to be less than the field of view of the user.

[0054] In one embodiment, the displayed content may be split into multiple images frames. For example, the displayed content may be split into two image frames (e.g., a left and right image frame for the left and right eye of the user). With two image frames, the system can perform stereoscopic imaging. Stereoscopic imaging attempts to create depth to the images by simulating the angular difference between the images viewed by each eye when looking at an object, due to the different positions of the eyes. This angular difference is one of the key parameters the human brain uses in processing images to create depth perception or distance in human vision. In one example, a single source image, which can be provided by the HMD, PED or external medium, is processed (e.g., either by the HMD or PED) to generate left image data and right image data for viewing. This can be accomplished by the portable electronic device and/or the head mounted device depending on the needs of the system.

[0055] The image frame(s) can also have different aspect ratios depending on the primary application of the displayed content. For example, an aspect ratio of 4.times.3 (i.e., similar to a television screen) may be used for television programs, whereas an aspect ratio of 16.times.9 (i.e., similar to a movie theatre screen) may be used for watching feature films.

[0056] FIGS. 2A and 2B show simplified schematic diagrams of a head-mounted display system 200 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Head-mounted display system 200 may generally correspond to the head-mounted display system described in FIG. 1. Head-mounted display system 200 includes head-mounted device 202 that receives a portable electronic device 204 having a display screen 206. That is, portable electronic device 204 may be coupled to head-mounted device 202 (as shown in FIG. 2B) and removed from head-mounted device 202 (as shown in FIG. 2A). When coupled, portable electronic device 204 is carried by head-mounted device 202, and as a result may be worn on the user’s head.

[0057] Portable electronic device 204 can be, for example, a portable media player, cellular telephone, internet-capable device, personal organizer, any other portable electronic device, or any combination thereof. In one embodiment of the present invention, the portable electronic device 204 can be a device that has the combined functionalities of a portable media player and a cellular telephone, such as an iPhone.TM. sold by Apple Inc. In another embodiment of the present invention, the portable electronic device can be a dedicated media player such as an iPod.TM. sold by Apple Inc. Examples of iPods.TM. include for example the Touch.TM., Nano.TM., Classic.TM., and the like.

[0058] The display screen 206 of the portable electronic device 204 is typically oriented towards the user’s eyes when the head mountable device 202 including the portable handheld device 204 is worn on the user’s head (towards the eyes of the user). As such, the display screen 206 may be used to view content when being worn. In one particular embodiment, the head mountable device 202 does not include its own main display and rather relies on the display 206 of the portable electronic device 204 coupled thereto to provide image based content (thereby reducing redundancies, which can add cost and complexity to the system).

[0059] The head mountable device 202 typically includes a frame member 208. The frame member 208 may be supported on a user’s head in a variety of ways including for example, ear support bars as in glasses, bands as in goggles, helmets, straps, hats and the like. The frame member 208 may have a docking area or mounting region 210 for placement of the portable electronic device 204 relative to the head mountable device 202. The frame member 208 may be configured to support the portable electronic device 202 when it is mounted in the mounting region 210.

[0060] The frame member 208 is typically worn in front of the users face. The mounting region 210 is therefore configured to place the display screen 206 in the correct position for viewing relative to a user’s eyes (e.g., in front of the users eyes as well as some of the distance from the user’s eyes).

[0061] The mounting region 210 may be widely varied. In one embodiment, the mounting region 210 includes a cavity 212. The cavity may for example have walls shaped similarly to the outer shape of the portable electronic device 204. In some cases, the cavity 212 may only include walls that surround multiple but not all sides of the portable electronic device 204 (e.g., at least two sides, three sides, fours sides, five sides,). The cavity 212 may form a void if five sides are used. In other cases, the cavity 212 may include walls on all sides (e.g., six sides). In any of these implementations, the walls may include open areas depending on the needs of the system. Alternatively, the cavity 212 may be formed with corners that match the corners of the portable electronic device 204.

[0062] The manner in which the portable electronic device 204 is placed within the cavity 212 may be widely varied. In one implementation, the portable electronic device 204 may be rotated into the cavity (e.g., by inserting a first end into the cavity 212 and thereafter rotating about the contact point). In another implementation, the portable electronic device 204 may be press fit into the cavity 212 (e.g., by pushing the portable electronic device into the shaped cavity). In yet another implementation, the portable electronic device 204 may be slid into the cavity (e.g., through a slot in one of its sides).

[0063] The head mountable device 202 can include one or more retaining features 214 for helping secure the portable electronic device 204 within the mounting region 210 of the head mountable device 202. The retaining features 214 may for example include doors, tabs, slots, detents, lips, snaps, flexures, friction couplings, clips, latches, catches, and/or the like.

[0064] The frame may include an opening 215 which provides access for viewing the display screen 206 when the portable electronic device is placed within the cavity 212. The opening 215 may be widely varied. In one embodiment it coincides with the shape/dimensions of the display screen 206. In another embodiment, it may be smaller than the shape/dimensions of the display screen 206. In either embodiment, it may include a bezel 216 that covers or overlays select portions of the portable electronic device 204 when the portable electronic device 204 is mounted within the head mountable device 202. That is, the bezel 216, which may be a separate component or a portion of one of the walls, can form or define the viewing region (blocking some of the device housing and/or the display screen). The bezel 216 may for example extend around all or some of the edge of the opening 215. In some cases, the opening 215 may include a transparent window disposed therein.

[0065] Shielding portions of the display screen 206 may be advantageous for enhancing the viewing experience and possibly reducing the energy burden of the portable electronic device (e.g., the shielded display pixels can be turned off). By way of example, the shielding portions may be black. The shielding portion may in some cases form a retaining structure. For example, it may be a fixed wall that forms a lip that covers a front portion of the portable electronic device when it is mounted or it may be a door that swings from an open position allowing the portable electronic device 204 to be inserted or removed and a closed position that locks the portable electronic device 204 in place.

[0066] The display screen 206 of the portable electronic device 204 may be widely varied and as such so may the head mountable device 202 configured for receiving the portable electronic device 204 (as mentioned above). In one implementation, the display screen 206 may for example be a full screen display that extends from edge to the edge of the portable electronic device 204. In another implementation, the display screen 206 may for example be a substantially full screen display such that a majority of the display screen 206 fills the front surface of the portable electronic device 204. In another implementation, the display screen 206 may for example be a partial screen display. For example, the partial screen display may only be oriented in an upper half of the portable electronic device 204. Further, the display screen 206 may be symmetrically centered on the front face of the portable electronic device 204 or alternatively it may be offset towards one side. In all of these implementations, the entire screen or portions of the screen can be covered to provide the desired screen size/shape for the viewing experience.

[0067] When coupled, the distance of the display screen 206 relative to the user’s eyes may be widely varied. In small form factor head mountable devices (e.g., low profile), the display screen 206 of the portable electronic device 204 may be placed fairly close to the user’s eyes. The placement of the screen 206 may be controlled by the surfaces of mounting region 210 and more particularly the walls of the cavity 212.

[0068] Because the screen 206 may be so large compared to the viewing distance, the system 200 may be configured to modify the image based content displayed on the display screen 206 so that is can be easily viewed. For example, the system 200 may adjust the size of the displayed content to be less than the size of the display screen (see, e.g., FIG. 11A). The system 200 may also adjust the resolution of the viewable content. For example, the resolution may be increased/decreased to compensate for how close the eyes are to the display screen 206.

[0069] It should also be emphasized that the system 200 is not limited to displaying one image frame. In some cases, it may be beneficial to provide multiple redundant image frames (dual image frames) in order to implement stereo like viewing (see for example FIGS. 11B-11F). In cases such as these, the image frames may be displayed at two locations within the display screen 206. The timing or image characteristics of the dual image frames relative to one another may be varied to provide an enhanced viewing effect.

[0070] While in most cases, the single image frame or dual image frame are typically centered within the screen 206, in some cases, it may be desirable to adjust the position of the displayed content within the display screen 206 in order to better align the image/content to the user (e.g., align or center the displayed image relative to where the eyes should be or to where the eyes actually are). The alignment may be based on a particular location relative to the head mountable device 202 and/or based on the position of the user’s eyes relative to the screen 206. For example, the image frames(s) may be centered relative to a nose support of the frame member 208, and/or the head mountable device 202 may include a means for discerning the location of the eyes (e.g., optical sensor). As shown by arrows in FIG. 11C, the position of the dual images may be adjusted together. Furthermore, as shown by the arrows in FIG. 11D, the position of the dual images may be adjusted relative to one another. For example, one may be adjusted upward while the other is adjusted to the right. Furthermore, although not shown, the orientation of each image frame may also be adjusted together or separately (rotation).

[0071] Although not shown, the system 200 may include an optical subassembly for helping properly display the one or more image frames to the user. That is, the optical subassembly may help transform the image frame(s) into an image(s) that can be viewed by the human eye. Optical subassembly may for example focus the images from the respective image frame(s) onto the user’s eyes at a comfortable viewing distance.

[0072] The optical subassembly may be disposed between the display screen 206 and the user’s eyes. The optical subassembly may be positioned in front of, behind or within the opening 215 that provides viewing access to the display screen 206. The optical subassembly may be supported by the frame member 208. For example, it may be attached to the frame member via any suitable means including for example screws, adhesives, clips, snaps, and the like.

[0073] The optical subassembly may be widely varied. The optical subassembly may include various optical components that may be static or dynamic components depending on the needs of the system. The optical components may include, for example, but not limited to lenses, light guides, light sources, mirrors, diffusers, and the like. The optical sub assembly may be a singular mechanism or it may include dual features, one for each eye/image area. In one implementation, the optical sub assembly can be formed as a panel that overlays the access opening 215. The panel may be curvilinear and/or rectilinear. For example, it may be a thin flat panel that can be easily carried by the frame member 208 and easily supported on a user’s head. If dynamic, the optical subassembly 219 may be manually or automatically controlled.

[0074] Specific examples of optical sub assemblies may include aspherical and diffractive optical arrangements. Aspherical optical arrangements may include various types of prism and/or lens arrangements (e.g., coaxial arrangement of lenses, a coaxial arrangement of a set of lenses arranged along a common axis, a concave mirror arrangement, a free shaped prism arrangement). Diffractive optical arrangements may include various types of arrangements that bend and spread light (e.g., a light-guided optical element, or a binocular light-guided optical element, both of which can be made of planar transparent glass or plastic).

[0075] In some embodiments, the optical subassembly may include one or more optical modules that may be operative to adjust or modify the displayed media based on any suitable criteria (e.g., as standalone modules or using circuit board). For example, optical modules may be operative to resize or otherwise modify an image such that the image appears to be displayed at a greater distance than the distance between optical modules and the user’s eyes (e.g., the image appears to be viewed from 4 meters and not 20 mm). As another example, optical modules may be operative to generate media displays that correspond to standard definition or high definition images. In some embodiments, left and right optical modules may generate and display different images associated with the received media. For example, optical modules (e.g., upon receiving appropriate instructions from the HMD or PED), may offset left and right images so that the user is given the illusion of viewing media in three dimensions. The optical modules may identify the appropriate left and right images using any suitable approach, including for example receiving separate left and right images from the media source, or generating left and right images from the single media provided by the media source. As another example, left and right optical modules may adjust the images displayed to account for limitations or corrections (e.g., by glasses or contact lens) of the user’s eyesight. For example, if a user is myopic in one eye, the optical module associated with that eye may modify the image displayed to correct the user’s myopia. The system may determine the correction required for each eye, if any, using any suitable approach. For example, the user may enter a glasses or contact lens prescription that indicates the required correction. As another example, each optical module may automatically analyze the user’s eyes, and determine the adjustment needed based on the analysis. This may allow users who normally wear glasses to use system without their glasses, which may lead to discomfort.

[0076] The system 200 may include a detection mechanism for alerting the portable electronic device 204 that it has been mounted or is otherwise carried by a head mountable device 202. Once detected, the portable electronic device 204 can be placed in a head mounted display (HMD) mode. The HMD mode may be based as a default and/or on user preferences. The HMD mode can be set up to configure the portable electronic device 204 for HMD viewing. For example, the HMD mode may adjust the image/content so that it can be viewed up close (as mentioned above). If user preferences are used, the user may be able to make adjustments as needed. Since adjustments may be difficult for the user, in some cases, the HMD and/or portable electronic device may include mechanisms for automatically configuring the image location and size. For example, either device may include sensors for detecting the distance to the eyes and the position of the eyes. As should be appreciated, each user’s eyes are oriented differently. For example some eyes are located close together while others are more spread out. The optimal viewing positions of the displayed images can be determined and then the viewing positions can be adjusted. The same can be done for resolution. Although, allowing the user to adjust resolution may be beneficial as this is a more difficult measurement to make since eyes can focus differently. By way of example, the portable electronic device 204 and/or the HMD 202 may include cameras that can reference where the eyes are located relative to the HMD 202. Alternatively, the portable electronic device may become a slave to the head mountable device such that the head mountable device controls the operation of the portable electronic device once it is inserted into the head mountable device.

[0077] The system 200 can include a communication interface that provides data and/or power communications between the portable electronic device 204 and the HMD 202. The communication interface may be wired or wireless.

[0078] If wired, the HMD 202 may include a connector 228 that receives a corresponding connector 229 of the portable electronic device 204 when the portable electronic device 204 is supported/carried by the head mountable device 202. In most cases, the connectors mate when the device is placed within the mounting region 210, and more particularly when placed within the cavity 212. By way of example, the connectors may mate as the portable electronic device is rotated, slid, or pressed into the HMD 202. The connectors may be male/female. For example, the portable electronic device may include a female connector while the HMD 202 may include a male connector. In this particular case, the male connector is inserted into the female connector when the devices are coupled together. The connectors may be widely varied. The connectors may be low profile connectors. The connectors may for example correspond to USB and/or FireWire. The connector may also be a 30 pin connector used in iPods.TM. and iPhones.TM. manufactured by Apple Inc. of Cupertino, Calif. In some cases, the cavity/connector combination may generally define a docking station for the portable electronic device.

[0079] If wireless, the devices 202 and 204 may each include a wireless chip set that transmits and/or receives (transceiver) the desired signals between the devices 202 and 204. Examples of wireless signal protocols include Bluetooth.TM., 802.11, RF, and the like. Wireless connections may require that wireless capabilities be activated for both the head-mounted device and the portable electronic device. However, such a configuration may not be possible or may be intermittent when the devices are being used in certain locations as for example on an airplane.

[0080] As a result of operatively coupling the device 204 through wired and/or wireless means, features of the HMD 202 may be extended to the portable electronic device 204 and features of the portable electronic device 204 may be extended to the head mountable device 202. Furthermore, redundant features may be removed from the system 200. For example, the HMD 202 may be configured without a display and instead utilize the display of the portable electronic device 204.

[0081] The number of additional features 230 provided by the HMD 202 may be widely varied. The features may be disposed internally or externally. In one example, the head-mounted device 202 can provide additional functionality to the portable electronic device 204. For example, the HMD 202 may include additional controls in the form of buttons, switches, dials, touch devices, etc. In addition, the head-mounted device 202 can include a battery to extend the life of the portable electronic device 204. Furthermore, the head-mounted device 202 can include a cooling system for cooling down the portable electronic device 204. Moreover, the head mounted device 202 can include memory as for example to store image based content, which can be displayed on the screen 206 of the portable electronic device 204. The head-mounted device 202 can also include sensors to detect various signals.

[0082] The head-mounted display system 200 can include several modes of operation. For example, the head-mounted display system 200 can operate in an internal viewing mode, which allows the user to watch image based content playing on the portable electronic device. As another example, the head-mounted display system can operate in a picture in picture (“PIP”) mode. In the PIP mode, a PIP image frame can be partially overlaid on top of the standard viewing image frame(s).

[0083] As yet another example, the head-mounted display system can operate in an external viewing mode, which allows the user to view the outside world. The head-mounted display system 200 can provide external viewing of the user’s surroundings using any suitable approach. For example using a camera of the portable electronic device 204 or using a separate camera disposed on the outside of the head mountable device 202. In the illustrated embodiment, the portable electronic device includes a camera on its backside opposite the display screen and the head mounted device includes an aperture within the mounting region that provides camera access to outside the head mounted device. In this manner, the camera may capture image based data that is in front of the user and further image frames corresponding to image based content received from the camera can be displayed in the standard image frame(s).

[0084] In some embodiments, the head-mounted display system 200 can detect when the user has selected an option to view external image based content (e.g., the user may have selected a control, issued a voice command, or made a head movement). In some embodiments, the head-mounted display system 200 can provide external viewing based on an indication received from the user’s surroundings. For example, sensors on the head-mounted display system can detect objects or sound around the user and enable external viewing.

[0085] The head-mounted display system 200 can make adjustments in response to detecting objects or sound. For example, arrows can be displayed on the display screen of the head-mounted display that corresponds to the direction of detected sound. As another example, the head-mounted display system 200 can automatically pause or stop the stored image based content that is currently playing. As yet another example, the head-mounted display system 200 can lower the volume of the stored image based content so that the user can hear the external sounds. In some cases, along with lowering the volume of the stored image based content, the head-mounted display system 200 can provide close captioning of the stored image based content.

[0086] In some embodiments, the display screen 206 can be utilized to extend the view of the displayed content. For example, because the screen 206 is larger than the reduced sized image frame(s), portions of the screen 206 surrounding the image frame(s) may be used to extend the feel of the displayed images to produce enhanced viewing effects. The extended portions may be colors associated with the edge of the displayed image. The secondary effect may be continuous or segmented. It may extend from all edges or just corners. Its characteristics including speed can also be adjusted to produce distinct effects. Alternatively or additionally, the images may be made larger and smaller to produce a viewing effect. Other examples include shaking, shifting, etc. See, for example, FIG. 11F, which shows a display screen broken up into a set of dual primary image regions (showing the desired content) and a set of secondary visual effect regions, which surround at least a portion of each of the primary image regions, and which extend and provide enhancements to the images displayed in the primary image regions.

[0087] The head-mounted device 204 can also serve a secondary purpose for the portable electronic device. For example, the head-mounted device 204 can serve as a case for the portable electronic device 202. As another example, the head-mounted device 204 can serve as a display stand for the portable electronic device 202.

[0088] These and other embodiments will be described in greater detail below.

[0089] FIGS. 3A-3C show various views of a head-mounted device in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. The head-mounted device 300 may generally correspond to the head-mounted device 102 of FIG. 1 or head-mounted device 204 of FIG. 2. Head-mounted device 300 can include any suitable component.

[0090] The head mounted device 300 may include a face plate 302. Face plate 302 may be typically worn in front of the user’s face. Faceplate 302 may be supported on a user’s head using a variety of components including, for example, eyeglass temples 312. Alternatively, goggle bands, helmets, straps, hats and the like may be used.

[0091] Faceplate 302 can form the outer surface of head-mounted device 300. Faceplate 302 can be constructed into any suitable shape and dimension. In the example shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, faceplate 302 generally has an outer shape configured to cover a user’s eyes when worn. It may also include a nose recess such that it can be supported on a user’s nose. This may serve as a reference surface for placing head-mounted device 300 relative to a user’s eyes.

[0092] Faceplate 302 can be formed from any suitable material or materials. In some embodiments, the faceplate can be formed from lightweight materials that afford user comfort (e.g., plastic) while maintaining strength to support a portable electronic device. In some embodiments, the faceplate can be formed from a material capable of withstanding impacts or shocks to protect the components of head-mounted device 300. Examples of materials include composite material, glass, plastic (ABS, polycarbonate), ceramic, metal (e.g., polished aluminum), metal alloys (e.g., steel, stainless steel, titanium, or magnesium-based alloys), or any other suitable material. In some embodiments, the outer surface of frame 302 can be treated to provide an aesthetically pleasing finish (e.g., a reflective finish, or added logos or designs) to enhance the appearance of head-mounted device 300.

[0093] Face plate 302 may be a skeletal structure with minimal structure such as walls thereby keeping it light weight and/or it may be configured more like a housing that can enclose various components. Face plate 302 may include main body 303, which helps form the side surface of the head mounted device 300. Face plate 302 may also include a front panel 304 and/or a back panel 305 that can be integral with or coupled to main body 303 to form the front and back surfaces of head-mounted device 300. Thus, main body 303, front panel 304, back panel 305 can cooperate to form the outer structure of head-mounted device 300.

[0094] Main body 303, front panel 304 and back panel 305 can be formed from any suitable material as mentioned above. In some embodiments, the three structures are formed from similar materials. In other embodiments, the three structures are formed from dissimilar materials. Each has needs that may be taken into account when designing the head mounted device. For example, the main body may be formed from a structure material with a structural configuration thereby providing central support to the head mounted device 300 while the front and back panels may be formed a material capable of withstanding impacts or shocks to protect the components of head-mounted device 300.

[0095] Main body 303, front panel 304 and back panel 305 can be constructed into any suitable shape. In one example, the main body takes the shape of the eyes and nose area of the face and the front and back panels 304 and 305 are substantially planar surfaces. As another example, front and back panels 304 and 305 can be curved surfaces that generally follow the contours of a user’s face.

[0096] In one embodiment, the main body, front and/or back panels 303, 304, and 305 may cooperate to form an internal cavity 332 for placement of a portable electronic device relative to head-mounted device 300. For example, the main body, front and back panels can form side walls that surround the portable electronic device thereby helping to retain the portable electronic device within the head-mounted device 300. Cavity 332 may be configured to place the screen of the portable electronic device in the correct position for viewing relative to a user’s eyes (e.g., in front of the users eyes and/or some distance away from the user’s eyes). In one embodiment, main body 303 of head-mounted device 300 may be configured to provide the main support of a portable electronic device when the portable electronic device is held within the cavity 332.

[0097] Cavity 332 can be defined by walls that may have a shape similar to the outer shape of the portable electronic device. In one example, the inner shape of the cavity 332 substantially conforms to the outer shape of a portable electronic device. Cavity 332 may receive the entire portable electronic device or only a portion of the device. For example, cavity 332 may include walls that surround multiple but not all sides of the portable electronic device (e.g., at least two sides, three sides, fours sides, or five sides). Thus, cavity 332 may receive only a display portion of the portable electronic device while leaving the rest of the portable electronic device outside of the head-mounted device. In some cases, the cavity 332 may form a void if five or six sides are used. In any of these implementations, the walls of cavity 332 may include open areas depending on the needs of the system. Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that cavity 332 may match with the portable electronic device in any suitable manner.

[0098] In some embodiments, head-mounted device 300 can include an adjustable mating mechanism such that the portable electronic device can fit regardless of the size of the device or the presence or absence of a case used for the device (e.g., soft or hard case). For example, the shape and dimensions of the cavity may be physically adjusted so as to fit different portable electronic devices. Moreover, the cavity may be oversized and include a separate insert for placement therein. The inner shape of the insert can be designed for a particular portable electronic device while the outer shape may correspond to the shape of the cavity. As another example, cavity 332 can be made from a deformable material that can conform to the shape of the portable electronic device (e.g., foam). In addition, the material can also be suitable for pooling heat away from the portable electronic device.

[0099] As shown in FIGS. 3B and 3C, the back panel 305 can include an opening 334 that coincides with a display screen of the portable electronic device (e.g., thereby allowing at least the desired viewing portion of the display screen to be viewed while the portable electronic device is disposed within the cavity 330). In one embodiment, the opening 332 is sized similarly to the portable electronic device. In another embodiment, the opening 332 is sized similarly to the display screen of the portable electronic device (which is typically smaller than the overall dimensions of the portable electronic device. In another embodiment, the opening 332 is sized smaller than the display screen of the portable electronic device. For example, it may be configured to be the size necessary for viewing smaller image frames that are displayed within the display screen (whether singular or double). In fact, if dual image frames are used, then the opening may be configured as dual openings rather than one larger opening.

[0100] Although not shown in FIGS. 3A-3C, in some cases, the HMD 300 can include an optical sub assembly that is disposed between the display screen and the user’s eyes in the region of the opening 332. The optical sub assembly may for example be disposed behind, within or in front of the opening 332. The optical subassembly may be supported by some portion of the main body 303 front panel 304 and/or back panel 305. In some cases, the optical sub assembly may simply be a transparent window. In other cases, however, the optical sub assembly may also be a more complicated system of optical components that enhance and improved the viewing experience (i.e., help focus the user’s eyes on the image frames being displayed on the display screen of the portable electronic device).

[0101] The manner in which the portable electronic device may be placed within the cavity 330 of the head-mounted device 300 may be widely varied. For example, the portable electronic device can slide into, be clipped on, be rotated into, and/or be press fit into the head-mounted device. In the illustrated embodiment, the face plate 302 includes a slot 340 such that the portable electronic device can be slid into the cavity 330. The slot 340 may for example be positioned on the right (as shown), left, top and bottom side of the frame 302. In alternate embodiments, the portable electronic device may be rotated or press fit into the cavity 330 through the opening used for viewing the display screen or if the opening is smaller than the portable electronic device, the back panel may open like a door (e.g., a door that swings from an open position allowing portable electronic device to be inserted or removed and a closed position that locks portable electronic device in place).

[0102] Head-mounted device 300 may include one or more retaining features for securing the portable electronic device within the head-mounted device. The retaining features may, for example, include doors, tabs, slots, detents, snaps, flexures, friction couplings, latches, catches, and/or the like. In some cases, the cavity may provide the retaining structure by being dimensioned to snuggly receive the portable electronic device (e.g., friction coupling). In some cases, the cavity may include a biasing element such as flexures or foam that squeezes the portable electronic device when contained within the cavity. In some cases, the slot may include a door that locks the portable electronic device within the cavity.

[0103] Head mounted device 300 may include an internal connector 342 disposed within the cavity 330. The connector 342 may be configured to receive a corresponding connector of the portable electronic device when the portable electronic device is positioned within the cavity 330. For example, the connectors may mate as the portable electronic device is slid into the cavity 330. The walls of the cavity may properly align the connectors during insertion. Once engaged, the head mounted device 300 and the portable electronic device may be operatively coupled together such that they can communicate and possibly share functionality. The connector 342 may be widely varied. The connector may generally provide data connections. The connector may also provide power connections. By way of example, the connector may include for example, universal serial bus (“USB”), Firewire, or other similar connectors. In one example, the connector is a 30 pin connector such as those used in iPods.TM. and iPhones.TM. manufactured by Apple Inc. of Cupertino, Calif.

[0104] Alternatively or additionally, the data and/or power connection can be provided by a wireless connection. Wireless connections may be widely varied. For example, the devices may each include a wireless chip set that transmits and/or receives (transceiver) the desired signals between the devices. Examples of wireless signal protocols include Bluetooth.TM. (which is a trademark owned by Bluetooth Sig, Inc.), 802.11, RF, and the like. Wireless connections may require that wireless capabilities be activated for both the head-mounted device and the portable electronic device. However, such a configuration may not be possible or may be intermittent when the devices are being used in certain locations as, for example, on an airplane.

[0105] The communication interface provided by a wired and/or a wireless connection can allow the user to control a portable electronic device using controls provided on a head-mounted device or a remote control. In addition, the communication interface can provide audio out to earphones. As a result, audio from image based content playing on a portable electronic device can be directed to earphones.

[0106] Head-mounted device 300 can include earphones 316, which can provide audio directly to the user. In some embodiments, earphones 316 can be earbuds, which can fit comfortably inside the user’s ears. In the illustrated embodiment, the earphones are integrated with the eyeglass temples 312.

[0107] In some embodiments, head-mounted device 300 can provide controls 318 which can allow the user to control the portable electronic device while wearing head-mounted device 300. Controls 318 can control any suitable feature and/or operation of head-mounted device 300 and/or the portable electronic device. For example, controls 318 can include navigation controls, display controls, volume controls, playback controls, or any other suitable controls. Controls 318 can be located on the side surfaces, front surface, top surface, eyeglass temples 312, or any other accessible location on the periphery of head-mounted device 300.

[0108] In one embodiment, head-mounted device 300 may include one or more controls 318 that are functionally mapped to the buttons of the portable electronic device when the portable electronic device is coupled. Alternatively, head-mounted device 300 may include an access opening for the buttons of the portable electronic device.

[0109] Any suitable type of controls can be used, such as, for example, wheels, dials, buttons, switches, sliders, and touch sensors. In some embodiments, a volume control can be placed on eyeglass temples 312. For example, a wheel or slider can be placed proximate to one of earphones 316 on eyeglass temples 312. As another example, a longitudinal touch sensor can be placed along eyeglass temples 312 (e.g., the user may increase the volume by sliding a finger along the touch sensor from front to back, and decrease the volume by sliding a finger from back to front). As still another example, touch sensors can also be used for display controls (e.g., brightness and contrast, enlarge/shrink, camera zoom, or any other suitable display control).

[0110] In some embodiments, front panel 304 can be a touch surface. For example, head-mounted device 300 can be connected to a portable electronic device, and a user may navigate the screen of the portable electronic device by moving one or more fingers across front panel 304.

[0111] Head-mounted device 300 may associate user inputs on front panel 304 with portable electronic device functions using any suitable approach. For example, the user may be looking at the screen of the portable electronic device while wearing head-mounted device 300. When the user slides a finger across front panel 304, head-mounted device 300 can translate this movement to a movement of a cursor or control on the screen of the portable electronic device.

[0112] The movement of the user’s fingers and the effect on the screen can be related using any suitable approach. For example, this association can be a one-to-one association. As another example, this association can be scaled (e.g., smaller or larger). A smaller association may be possible when a movement on front panel 304 corresponds to a smaller movement on the screen. Such an association can be useful, for example, when a user is navigating a list. A larger association may be possible when a movement on front panel 304 corresponds to a larger movement on the screen. Such an association can be useful, for example, when a user is flipping through pictures in a slideshow.

[0113] In some embodiments, head-mounted device 300 can include connectors or jacks 320, which can be one or more external connectors that can be used to connect to other external devices or systems (data and/or power) In one embodiment, head-mounted device 300 may include a secondary audio/video connector 320 when the portable electronic device is situated inside the head-mounted device. Alternatively, head-mounted device 300 may include a hole for allowing access to the audio/video connector on the portable electronic device.

[0114] Head mounted device 300 may include a camera region 306. Camera region 306 can be positioned proximate front panel 304. The camera region may represent a camera that is integrated with the head mounted device and/or it may represent an opening for a camera. An integrated camera may be used in place of or in conjunction with a camera on the portable electronic device. For example, a camera on portable electronic device 202 (FIG. 2) may not be able to capture the user’s surroundings when coupled to the head-mounted device. As another example, camera 306 can be used if the portable electronic device does not include a camera of its own (e.g., iPod Touch.TM. available from Apple Inc. of Cupertino, Calif.).

[0115] In cases where the portable electronic device includes a camera, and there is a desire to reduce redundancies (e.g., thereby reducing weight, complexity and cost), front panel 304 can include a camera hole, which can be aligned with a camera of the portable electronic device when the portable electronic device is situated inside head-mounted device 300. The camera hole can allow the camera on the portable electronic device to capture image based content of the user’s surroundings. While a hole is not shown, it should be appreciated that it can be placed at any location on the front panel.

[0116] In some embodiments, camera(s) associated with camera region 306 can be used to capture image based content (e.g., images and video) of the user’s external surroundings. For example, camera(s) can be used when head-mounted device 300 is worn on the user’s head to provide image based content to the user. This may allow the user to see what he would not normally be able to because his vision is blocked or impaired by wearing head-mounted device 300. This may advantageously allow the user to wear head-mounted device 300 for extended periods of time.

[0117] Head mounted device 300 may include speakers 308. Speakers 308 can be located at various locations on head-mounted device 300 to enhance the user’s viewing experience. For example, speakers 308 can be placed around some or all of the periphery (e.g., sides, top, and/or bottom) of frame 302. As another example, speakers can be integrated into strap 310, which can be located at the user’s ear level. As still another example, speakers 308 can be placed on eyeglass temples 312, which can fit over or behind the user’s ears. Speakers 308 can include a variety of different types of speakers (e.g., mini speakers, piezo electric speakers, and the like), and/or haptic devices.

[0118] Haptic devices (e.g., buzzers, or vibrators) can work alone or in combination with speakers. In some cases, the speakers may serve as haptic components. Similarly to the speakers, haptics can be placed around some or all of the periphery (e.g., sides, top, and/or bottom) of frame 302. As another example, haptics can be integrated into strap 310, which can be located at the user’s ear level. As still another example, speakers 308 can be placed on eyeglass temples 312, which can fit over or behind the user’s ears.

[0119] Haptic devices can interface with the user through the sense of touch by applying mechanical stimulations (e.g., forces, vibrations, and motions). For example, while a user is watching image based content, haptic devices can be configured to provide an enhanced surround sound experience by providing impulses corresponding to events in the image based content. As an illustrative example, the user may be watching a movie that shows an airplane flying on the left of the screen. Haptic devices can produce vibrations that simulate the effect (e.g., sound effect, shock wave, or any combination thereof) of the airplane. For example, a series vibration may be provided along the left temple from front to back to simulate the airplane flying to the left and rear of the user. Speakers can also be used in this manner.

[0120] Head mounted device may include a variety of ports 314. When portable electronic device is coupled to head-mounted device 300, ports 314 can provide a path for signals (e.g., audio signals) to travel between the portable electronic device and head-mounted device 300. In some embodiments, ports 314 can provide a simple path for signals to travel to the user. For example, ports 314 can be a hole or simple circuitry (e.g., an amplifier) that is directly aligned with a component on the portable electronic device. As a result, sound can travel directly from the portable electronic device to the user. In some embodiments, ports 314 can provide a complex path for signals, in which signals are redirected to a different location on the head-mounted device. For example, head-mounted device 300 can include circuitry that can redirect audio signals from speakers on the portable electronic device to various locations on the head-mounted device (e.g., audio signals can be redirected to speakers 308 and earphones 316). As another example, head-mounted device 300 can include an acoustical port for allowing access to a microphone on the portable electronic device. Alternatively, the head-mounted device may include its own microphone.

[0121] In some embodiments, head-mounted device 300 can further include one or more electronic subassemblies 324. The electronic subassemblies 324 can be configured to implement any suitable functionality provided by head-mounted device 300. For example, the electronic subassemblies 324 can include memory (e.g., memory 1318 of FIG. 13), sensors (e.g., sensors 1324 of FIG. 13), processors (e.g., processor 1310 of FIG. 13), communications circuitry (e.g., communications circuitry 1328 of FIG. 13), battery (e.g., battery 1320 of FIG. 13), or any other suitable component. The one or more subassemblies 324 may be placed at various locations within or outside of the head-mounted device 300. For example, the electronic subassemblies may be disposed at internal spaces defined by the main body 303 and possibly the front and rear panels 304 and 305 (without interfering with the internal space provided for the portable electronic device). In one example, they are placed at the lower sections on the right and left of the nose support region of the main body 303. This section would otherwise not be used because of the configuration of the portable electronic device (e.g., substantially rectangular). Additionally or alternatively, the main body 303 and/or the front panel 304 may form enclosed portions that extend outwardly thereby forming internal spaces for placing the electronic subassemblies.

[0122] Remote control 322 can be connected to head-mounted device 300 or the portable electronic device using any suitable approach. For example, remote control 322 can be a wired device that is plugged into a connector in connectors 320. As another example, remote control 322 can be a wireless device that can transmit commands to the portable electronic device and head-mounted device 300 via a wireless communications protocol (e.g., Wi-Fi, infrared, Bluetooth.TM., or any combination thereof). As still yet another example, remote control 322 can be a device that is capable of both wired and wireless communications. The user may use remote control 322 to navigate the portable electronic device and to control the display, volume, and playback options on the portable electronic device. Remote control 322 can include any remote control device, such as, for example, the Apple Remote available from Apple Inc. of Cupertino, Calif.

[0123] FIG. 4 shows a configuration for sliding a portable electronic device 400 into a head-mounted device 300 in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. Portable electronic device 400 and head-mounted device 300 can correspond to any of those previously described.

[0124] In the implementation shown in FIG. 4, the portable electronic device 400 is slid through the slot 340 and into the cavity. 332. The slot 340 may be situated opposite a connector 342 such that as the portable electronic device 400 is slid into the cavity 332, a connector 402 of the portable electronic device 400 can begin to mate with connector 342 and can completely mate upon final insertion of the portable electronic device 400 into the cavity 332. In the illustrated embodiment, slot 340 may be configured to receive the bottom end of the portable electronic device 400. During insertion, the walls of the cavity 332 help guide the portable electronic device 400 into place within the cavity 332. In addition, the walls help guide the connector 402 of the portable electronic device 400 to connect with the corresponding connector 342 disposed within the cavity 332.

[0125] The connectors 402 and 342 can allow data and/or power communications between head-mounted device 300 and portable electronic device 400. The connectors 402 and 342 may be widely varied, such as, for example, low profile connectors, USB, FireWire, or a 30 pin connector used in iPods.TM. and iPhones.TM. manufactured by Apple Inc. of Cupertino, Calif. In some cases, the cavity/connector combination may generally define a docking station for portable electronic device 400. As shown in FIG. 4, the connectors 402 and 342 may be male/female. For example, the portable electronic device may include a female connector while the head-mounted device may include a male connector. The male connector is inserted into the female connector when the devices are coupled together.

[0126] Because connector 402 may be blocked once portable electronic device 400 is coupled to head-mounted device 300, portable electronic device 400 may be prevented from interfacing with other devices. To accommodate other devices, head-mounted device 300 can include an adaptor 343 that includes connector 344 on the outside of the head-mounted device 300. As a result, when another device (e.g., a battery) is plugged into connector 344, this device can interface with portable electronic device 400.

[0127] After coupling the portable electronic device 400 to the head-mounted device 300, the protocol under which devices communicate may be widely varied. Any suitable communication protocol may be used, such as, for example, a master/slave communication protocol, server/client communication protocol, peer/peer communication protocol, or any combination thereof. For example, using a master/slave communication protocol, one of the devices, the master device, controls the other device, the slave device. For instance, the portable electronic device 400 may become a slave to the head-mounted device 300 such that the head-mounted device controls the operation of the portable electronic device once they are coupled. Alternatively, the head-mounted device 300 can serve as a slave of the portable electronic device 400 by simply implementing actions based on controls from the portable electronic device 400. As another example, using a client/server communication protocol, a server program, operating on either portable electronic device 400 or head-mounted device 300, responds to requests from a client program. As yet another example, using a peer to peer communication protocol, either of the two devices can initiate a communication session.

[0128] Generally, the communication session can begin when the two devices are coupled together and powered up. In some cases, the devices may switch immediately into a head-mounted mode once connected. In the head-mounted mode, the size and possibly the resolution of one or more image frames on the screen may be adjusted for viewing at close proximity. In addition, some features can be turned on/off while the settings of other features may be reconfigured differently from normal portable electronic device use. For example, input devices, output devices, sensors, and other electrical systems can be activated or deactivated based on the default settings.

[0129] In one embodiment, the user may be provided with an option to set up the head-mounted display system manually. For example, the user may be prompted with a control menu for setting up the head-mounted display system when the devices are coupled together. As another example, the user may be provided with an option to manually set the distance between two image frames that are displayed on the screen (one for each eye). For example, the user may select a control (e.g., rotate a knob) to align the two image frames with his eyes.

[0130] Alternatively, if adjustments are difficult for the user, head-mounted device 300 and/or portable electronic device 400 may include mechanisms for automatically configuring the image frame location and size based on default settings. As should be appreciated, each user’s eyes are oriented differently. For example, some eyes are located close together while others are more spread out. Thus, either device may include sensors for detecting the distance to the eyes and the position of the eyes. After determining the optimal viewing positions and size of the displayed image frames based on the detected distance and position, the head-mounted display system can adjust the viewing positions. By way of example, the portable electronic device and/or the head-mounted device may include cameras that can reference where the eyes are located relative to the head-mounted device.

[0131] The resolution of the displayed image frames can also be adjusted in a similar manner. However, because each user’s eyes focus differently, it may be beneficial to allow the user to manually adjust the resolution as this is a more difficult measurement to make.

[0132] In one embodiment, the head-mounted display system may include a sensing mechanism for alerting the portable electronic device 400 that the device has been coupled to the head-mounted device 300. As a result, portable electronic device 400 can switch to the head-mounted mode. By way of example, the sensing mechanism may be an electrical connection, a sensor such as a proximity sensor or IR detector, and/or the like. The sensing mechanism may be used instead of or in combination with the communication interface to assist the devices into switching to the head-mounted mode.

[0133] In addition, as a result of operatively coupling the devices through wired and/or wireless interfaces, features of the head-mounted device 300 may be extended to the portable electronic device 400, and features of the portable electronic device 400 may be extended to the head-mounted device 300. Furthermore, redundant features may be removed from head-mounted device 300, and enhancement features may be added to head-mounted device 400.

[0134] FIG. 5 shows a side view of a head-mounted device 500 coupled to a portable electronic device 502 in accordance with an alternate embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, a portion of the portable electronic device 502 is configured to protrude out of the HMD 500. It can be configured to protrude out of any side including right, left, bottom and top. In the illustrated embodiment, the portable electronic device 502 protrudes out of the top of the HMD 500 (i.e., HMD 500 includes a top slot and a cavity 504 only configured for enclosing a portion of the portable electronic device 502). In this type of configuration, the portion 507 of the display screen 506 positioned behind an opening 508 is utilized for displaying image areas. This is generally not an issue as the size of the image areas is typically much smaller than the overall screen size (i.e., reduced or shrunk so that they can be easily viewed).

[0135] FIGS. 6A and 6B show a top view of a head-mounted device 600 coupled to a portable electronic device 602 in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 except that the head mounted device further includes an optical subassembly 604 for helping to provide a better viewing experience. Optical subassembly 604 may be disposed between the screen 606 of the portable electronic device 602 and the user’s eyes (e.g., overlaid over at least the viewing portion of the screen). In some cases, the optical subassembly 604 can be located in the region of an opening (e.g., opening 334 of FIG. 3). The optical subassembly 604 may, for example, be disposed behind, within or in front of the opening. The optical subassembly 604 may be supported by a main body (e.g., main body 303 of FIG. 3) and/or a back panel (e.g., back plane 305 of FIG. 3) of the head mounted device 600. For example, the optical subassembly 604 may be attached to the main body via any suitable means including, for example, screws, adhesives, clips, snaps, and the like.

[0136] The optical subassembly 604 may be widely varied. For example, the optical subassembly 604 may have a planar configuration. In some cases, the optical subassembly may simply be a transparent window that projects the image based content to the user. The window can be made from any suitable clear material, such as, for example, polycarbonate or glass. In other cases, however, the optical subassembly 604 may be a more complicated system of optical components that may be configured to adjust image based content playing on the portable electronic device so that the image based content can be viewed at close proximity (e.g., help focus the user’s eyes on the image based content being displayed on the screen of the portable electronic device)

[0137] The optical subassembly 604 may include various optical components that may be static or dynamic components depending on the needs of the system. The optical components may include, for example, lenses, light guides, light sources, mirrors, diffusers, optics, lasers or any other suitable optical component. Specific examples of optical subassemblies may include aspherical and diffractive optical arrangements. Aspherical optical arrangements may include various types of prism and/or lens arrangements (e.g., a coaxial arrangement of lenses, a coaxial arrangement of a set of lenses arranged along a common axis, a concave mirror arrangement, and a free shaped prism arrangement). Diffractive optical arrangements may include various types of arrangements that bend and spread light (e.g., a light-guided optical element, or a binocular light-guided optical element, both of which can be made of planar transparent glass or plastic). A more detailed discussion on processing and displaying image frames using optics in a head-mounted device can be found, for example, in Tang, U.S. Published Patent Application No. 2008/0088529, published Apr. 17, 2008, entitled “Enhanced Image Display in Head-Mounted Displays,” which is incorporated by reference in its entirety, and in Tang et al., U.S. Published Patent Application No. 2007/0201737, published Aug. 30, 2007, entitled “Peripheral Treatment for Head-Mounted Displays,” which is also incorporated by reference in its entirety. A discussion on the use of laser and optics to process image frames on head-mounted devices can be found in Tang, U.S. Published Patent Application No. 2008/0088937, published Apr. 17, 2008, entitled “Head Mounted Display System,” which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0138] The optical subassembly 604 may include one or more optical interfaces that may be operative to adjust or modify displayed image frames based on any suitable criteria (e.g., as standalone modules or using a circuit board). For example, the optical subassembly may include a single optical interface (as shown in FIG. 6A). In one implementation, the optical subassembly 604 can be formed as a panel that overlays the opening. The panel may be curvilinear and/or rectilinear.

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