Video headset
US5696521A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 22, 1994 |
| Grant date | Dec 9, 1997 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 22, 2014 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B2027/0178
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A video headset is worn comfortably on the head of a user, supported by a pair of spaced apart straps extending over the top of the head and across the lower back of the head. The rear strap may be counterweighted. A pair of headphone type speakers are supported on pivoted arms from a frame of the headset, so as to be swingably adjustable to accommodate ear position. In a preferred embodiment, a pair of LCD video displays are positioned above the level of the user's eyes, each with a beam splitter positioned in front of the eyes to reflect a portion of the light from the video screens to the user. The partially transmissive beam splitters allow the user to see through to the ambient scene beyond, increasing the comfort of the user in viewing the video. A transparent shield preferably is positioned forward of the video optics, with an adjustment under the control of the user for controlling the brightness of the ambient light. The video screens and optics preferably set the user's convergence angle at about eight feet, for optimum comfort.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.