Oculus Patent | Metal Frame Of Head Mount Device Having Impact Absorbing Walls

Patent: Metal Frame Of Head Mount Device Having Impact Absorbing Walls

Publication Number: 20180348812

Publication Date: 2018-12-06

Applicants: Oculus VR, LLC

Abstract

Embodiments relate to a metal frame in a head-mounted display (HMD) that is structured to absorb impact and protect components of the HMD. The metal frame has a wall that is spaced away from a protection shell securing a display panel in the HMD. When the HMD is dropped or subject to external force, the wall may deform but keep the protection shell intact. Moreover, the metal frame has protruding ridges and brackets that surround outward facing cameras on the HMD. If the HMD is dropped, the protruding ridges and brackets can provide protection to the cameras.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to a head-mounted display ("HMD"), and specifically, to a metal frame in a HMD.

Head-mounted displays (HMDs) may be used to present augmented and/or virtual information to a user. For example, a virtual reality (VR) headset can be used to simulate virtual environments. HMDs are used in a variety fields, some of these include gaming, engineering, medicine, and aviation. To perform these operations, HMDs can include various internal components as well as sensors such as cameras and inertial measurement units. Such internal components and sensors may be susceptible to damage when dropped or subject to external impact.

SUMMARY 

Embodiments relate to a head-mounted display ("HMD"), and specifically, to a metal frame for protecting components of the HMD from impact. The metal frame includes a front surface facing a front cover of the HMD and a rear surface facing a display assembly. The rear surface of the metal frame contains a raised wall that is spaced apart from and extends along an edge of the display assembly to protect the display assembly. When the HMD is dropped or subject to external force, the wall may deform but keep the display assembly intact.