WO2005119338A1

WO2005119338A1 - Modular system for construction of a display device to be carried on the head of a user

Info

Publication number: WO2005119338A1
Application number: PCT/EP2005/005848
Authority: WO
Inventors: Martin Ross-Messemer; Bernd Spruck; Birgit Rottenkolber; Simon Brattke; Martin Edelmann
Original assignee: Carl Zeiss Ag
Priority date: 2004-06-02
Filing date: 2005-05-31
Publication date: 2005-12-15
Also published as: DE102004026825A1; DE202004021546U1

Abstract

The invention relates to a modular system for construction of a display device to be carried on the head of a user. Said system comprises a support module (1) fastened to the head of a user and a display module (6, 7) connected to said support module (1) and producing and imaging an image based on defined image data in such a manner that it can be received by the user carrying the display device. The display module (6, 7) comprises an image module (15, 43) for producing an image and an optical module (16, 44), optically and mechanically connected to the image module (15, 43), for imaging the image produced. The modular system comprises a first support module (1), a first image module (15, 43), a first optical module (16, 44) and at least one additional image and/or optical module (15, 43; 16, 44) that is/are different from the corresponding first image or optical module. Every image module (15, 43) has a first optomechanical interface and every optical module (16, 44) has a second optomechanical interface that can be linked with the first optomechanical interface so that a freely selectable image module of the image modules (15, 43) of the modular system can be optically and mechanically connected to a freely selectable optical module (16, 44) of the optical modules of the modular system via the two optomechanical interfaces, thereby creating a display module (6, 7).

Description

Modular system for constructing a display device to be worn on a user's head

The invention relates to a modular system for constructing a display device to be worn on the head of a user. Such display devices are also known as HMD devices (HMD = Head Mounted Display) and have so far been specially designed and manufactured for each desired application. Therefore, it is expensive, time-consuming, and labor intensive to manufacture and distribute an HMD device for a new application.

Proceeding from this, it is an object of the invention to provide a system for constructing a display device to be worn on the head of a user, with which the difficulties described at the beginning can be reduced.

According to the invention the object is achieved by a modular system for constructing a display device to be carried on the head of a user, which comprises a support module which can be fastened to the head of a user and a display module which is connected to the support module and which generates an image on the basis of predetermined image data and displays it in such a way that it can be detected by the user carrying the display device, the display module comprising an image module for generating the image and an optical module that is optically and mechanically connected to the image module for imaging the generated image, the modular system comprising a first carrying module, a first image module, and a first optical module and at least one further image and / or optics module, each of which is / is different from the corresponding first image or optics module, each image module having a first optomechanical interface and each optics module having a second optomechanical interface that can be connected to the first optomechanical interface tstelle, so that a freely selectable image module of the image modules of the modular system can be optically and mechanically connected to a freely selectable optical module of the optical modules of the modular system via the two optomechanical interfaces to form a display module. Due to the two coordinated optomechanical interfaces, any combination of one of the image modules with one of the optics modules is possible. The optomechanical connection between the optics and image module is thus opened in accordance with the present invention in such a way that defined optomechanical interfaces are provided with which the optics and image modules are equipped, so that the combination of the optics and image modules is selected in accordance with the specifications of the display device to be produced and can be assembled. The automechanical connection between the optics and image module can be implemented in the manner of a bayonet lock. Any other type of positive connection can also be used to produce the mechanical connection. A connection can also be selected in which one of the two optomechanical interfaces is latched to the other of the two optomechanical interfaces. The optomechanical connection can be designed in such a way that the mechanical connection can be detached or can no longer be detached after it has been produced for the first time.

The image modules can differ, for example, in the type of image generation. Thus, image modules with an OLED element (OLED = organic light-emitting diodes), an LCoS element (LCoS = Liquid Crystal on Silicon), an LCD element (LCD = liquid crystal), a DMD element (DMD = tilting mirror matrix) or a GLV Element (GLV = Gräting Light Valve).

Spectacle-like support modules, helmet-like support modules, face-clamped support modules and / or head-supported support modules can be provided.

Optical modules can be used as optical modules, which present the generated image to the user's eye as a virtual image. In particular, a change in scale, e.g. B. an enlargement of the image can be achieved by means of the optical module. An optical module can be provided with which only the generated image can be detected by the user, and an optical module can be provided with which the user perceives an overlay of the generated image with the surroundings. Furthermore, an optics module can be provided in which the generated image can only be captured by the user in a part of the user's field of vision. The optical elements of the optical module are preferably made of plastic.

In a preferred development, the optomechanical interfaces in the modular system are designed such that the optical connection is also present when the mechanical connection is present. This significantly simplifies the manufacture of the display device, since only the optical connection has to be created, for example by clipping on or snapping in, and after that no adjustment for the optical image is necessary. ~ ό ~

Furthermore, in the modular system, the first support module and, if appropriate, further support modules provided, each have a first electromechanical interface and each image module has a second electromechanical interface that can be connected to the first electromechanical interface, so that a freely selectable image module of the image modules of the system can be used via the two electromechanical interfaces can be mechanically and electrically connected to a freely selectable support module of the support modules of the system. This makes it possible to mechanically attach the image module to the support module, which means that very compact and stable display devices can be produced.

Furthermore, in the modular system, the first support module and any further support modules provided may each have a first electromechanical interface and each optics module may have a second electromechanical interface that can be connected to the first electromechanical interface, so that a freely selectable optics module of the optics modules of the system with one can be connected via the two electromechanical interfaces freely selectable support module of the support modules of the system is mechanically and electrically connectable. In this alternative, a particularly good weight distribution between the display module and the support module can be achieved, which increases the comfort for the user when carrying the display device.

In particular, the two optomechanical interfaces can be designed such that when the mechanical connection is present, there is also an electrical connection between the optics and image modules connected to one another. The electrical connection between the support module and the image module can thus be implemented via the optics module, so that the image module does not have to have any direct contact with the support module. This increases design freedom, which can be used, for example, for optimal weight distribution of the display device.

In particular, in the modular system, the two electromechanical interfaces of the support module and the optics or image module are designed such that the electrical connection also exists when the mechanical connection is present. This simplifies the manufacture of the display device, since only the mechanical connection has to be produced and the necessary electrical connection is thereby achieved at the same time.

Any type of positive connection can be used to establish the mechanical connection by means of the two electromechanical interfaces. For example, a type of connection can be selected in which one of the two electromechanical interfaces with the other of the two electromechanical interfaces Interfaces locked. The electromechanical connection can be designed in such a way that the mechanical connection can be released or can no longer be released after it has been produced for the first time.

A particularly preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention is that the two electromechanical interfaces are designed so that the optics or image module can be attached to the support module at different positions. The display device can thus be optimally adjusted to the eye relief of a user, so that excellent image quality can be achieved.

In particular, the two electromechanical interfaces are designed so that the image or. Optics module is slidably attached to the support module. Due to this displaceability, while at the same time maintaining electrical contact, an optimal adjustment to the respective user, even with changing users, is easily possible.

Furthermore, in the system, the first support module and optionally further support modules each have a third electromechanical interface and the system can comprise a signal module having a fourth electromechanical interface, which can be connected to the third electromechanical interface, for recording and / or reproducing signals, whereby via the two electromechanical interfaces a freely selectable support module of the support modules of the system and the signal module can be electrically and mechanically connected.

Furthermore, in the system, the first support module and possibly further support modules each have a third optomechanical interface and the system can comprise a signal module for recording and / or reproducing signals that has a fourth optomechanical interface that can be connected to the third optomechanical interface the two optomechanical interfaces, a freely selectable support module of the system support modules and the signal module can be optically and mechanically connected.

A display device with a signal module can thus be produced, wherein further functionalities can be provided. The signal module can be, for example, a microphone, an earphone, a digital or video camera. The signal module can also be designed as a transmitting or receiving unit that receives / transmits data optically and / or electrically. In particular, the system can identify several different signal modules, each of which has a fourth electromechanical or optomechanical interface. The modular system according to the invention is thus a type of modular system for producing display devices to be worn on the head of a user, with this modular system being able to produce different display devices very flexibly with little effort.

The electromechanical interfaces can be designed in such a way that the electrical connection is wired or wireless (eg by radio).

The electromechanical interfaces can each be designed so that there is an electrical bus system for communication between the modules when the interfaces are connected. In this way, for example, the image data can be transmitted to the image modules via a bus system. Due to the bus system, the number of modules that can be attached to the support module is in principle not limited by the existing number of lines.

Furthermore, the modules can have further interfaces, such as. B. a wireless interface (e.g. radio, Bluetooth, infrared ...). Data and / or energy can be transmitted via these interfaces.

The image modules can also each be equipped with an energy supply (e.g. battery).

Instead of or in addition to the electrical connection, an optical connection can also be used to transmit signals (in particular video signals). In this case, the corresponding modules have corresponding optical interfaces in order to achieve the optical connection. In particular, an optical connection between the support module and the optics module, between the support module and the image module and / or between the image module and the optics module can be provided. The signal transmission between the signal source and the carrying or image module can also take place via an optical and / or electrical connection (wireless or wired), with corresponding interfaces then also being provided on the corresponding modules.

The display device can also comprise further elements, such as an image data source, which can also be attached to the support module or can be connected to the support module via an electrical line or a wireless connection (electrical and / or optical). Furthermore, the display device can also have an energy source, which is preferably connected to the support module via a line. The invention is explained in more detail below by way of example with reference to the drawing. In the drawings:

1 shows a plan view of a modular display device according to a first embodiment;

FIG. 2 is an enlarged side view of the display module 6 of the display device of FIG. 1;

Fig. 3 is a schematic view showing the modular concept of the display device of Figs. 1 and 2;

Fig. 4 is a schematic view for explaining another modular concept of a modular display device;

5 is a schematic representation of yet another modular concept of a modular display device;

FIG. 6 shows a top view of a further development of the display device from FIG. 1;

7 is a top view of another modular display device;

8 shows an enlarged side view of the display module 6 according to a further embodiment of a modular display device;

FIG. 9 shows a further side view of the embodiment from FIG. 8, the display module 6 being in a different pivot position;

Fig. 10 is a perspective view of a modification of the display device of Fig. 1;

11 is a perspective view of another modification of the display device of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 12 is an enlarged exploded view of a portion of the main section 2 of FIG. 10;

13 is a sectional view of the main section 2;

FIG. 14 is a front view of the display device of FIG. 10; FIG. 15 is a front view of a modification of the display device of FIG. 10;

FIG. 16 is a top view of the area of the right joint between the main part and the right bracket of FIG. 10;

Fig. 17 is a plan view of a modification of the display device of Fig. 10;

Figure 18 is a sectional view of the left bracket of the display device of Figure 17;

19 is a sectional view of the right bracket of the display device of FIG. 17, and

20 is a plan view of another modification of the display device of FIG. 1.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the modular display device comprises an eyeglass-like support module 1 with a front main section 2 and two side brackets 3 and 4. A nose pad 5 is fastened in the center of the front main section 2, so that a user can view the display device like one can put on conventional glasses.

Furthermore, two display modules 6, 7 (one for each eye) are attached to the front main section 2. As indicated by the double arrows 8, 9, the display modules 6 and 7 can be displaced independently of one another along the longitudinal direction of the front main section 2, so that they can be adapted to the individual eye relief of the right and left eye of the user.

As can best be seen from FIG. 1, three lines 10, 11, 12 are provided on the upper side of the right bracket 3, which also extend to almost the entire front main section 2. The three lines 10-12 are only shown as examples. Of course, more or fewer lines can be provided.

At the rear end of the left bracket 3, the lines 10 - 12 run into the bracket (as indicated by the broken line) to a connection 13, into which a plug, not shown, for example a jack plug, of a line feed 14, which is only partially shown, is inserted to establish a connection with, for example, a voltage source and an image data source (both not shown). The two display modules are then supplied with energy and data for image display via lines 10-12. As can best be seen from FIG. 2, in which the display module 6 is shown schematically in a side view, the display module 6 comprises an image module 15, which is mechanically connected to an optics module 16, which in turn is mechanically connected to the front section 2.

The display module 15 includes an imaging element 17, e.g. an LCoS module, a control circuit 18, which is connected to the imaging element 17 via a line 19, and two lines 20, 21.

The optics module contains lines 22 and 23, which are in contact with the lines 10-12, and an imaging optics 24, for which three lenses and a deflecting prism are shown schematically in FIG. The supply of the image signals and the power supply for the image module 15 takes place via the lines 20 and 21, which are connected to lines 22 and 23 of the optical module 16.

The second display module 7 is constructed in the same way as the display module 6.

In operation, the image to be displayed is generated by means of the image module 15 and then imaged by means of the optical module 16 in such a way that it can be detected by a user carrying the display device. The image is preferably depicted as a virtual image. The two display modules can represent the same or different images.

A major advantage of the display device described is that the mechanical and optical connection of the image module 15 with the optics module 16 is standardized in such a way that the image module 15 has a first optomechanical interface and the optics module 16 has a second optomechanical interface which is connected to the first optomechanical interface is connectable. The two interfaces are designed so that when the image module 15 is mechanically connected to the optics module 16, the desired and necessary optical connection is also present. This is realized, for example, in that an optical interface level 25 is defined in which the image module 15 provides the image to be generated, and in that the optical module 16 images an image present in the optical interface level 25 into the eye A of the viewer. If the mechanical connection between the image and the optics module 15, 16 is present, the optical output of the image module 15 and the optical input of the optics module 16 are thus in the optical interface level 25. An example of such an optomechanical interface is the bayonet, which is particularly common in cameras -lock. In the embodiment shown here, the image and optics module 15, 16 are designed such that they additionally have an electrical interface which, when the mechanical connection between the two modules 15, 16 is present, also an electrical connection (here the lines 21 and 20 with lines 22 and 23).

The mechanical and electrical connection of the optics module 16 to the support module 1 is also standardized such that the optics module 16 has a first electromechanical interface and the support module 1 has a second electromechanical interface which can be connected to the first electromechanical interface. If the optics module 16 is mechanically connected to the support module 1, the electrical connection is also immediately present (here between the lines 22 and 23 of the optics module 16 and the lines 10 and 12 of the support module 1). The electrical connection is made in the manner of a sliding contact, so that the electrical connection is maintained even when the optical module 16 is moved in the longitudinal direction of the front section 2.

The standardized or defined electrooptomechanical connection between the image module 15 and the optics module 16 and the defined electromechanical connection between the optics module 16 and the support module 1 make it possible to provide further carrying, image and / or optics modules which have the specified interfaces , so that, for example, the image module 15 can be exchanged for another image module with different properties in the display device of FIGS. 1 and 2 without any further change in the optics and / or support modules 16, 1 being necessary. The individual modules of the display device can thus be replaced independently of one another. Therefore, a kind of modular system for display devices can be provided, which has various support modules, optical modules and image modules. In accordance with the desired framework and requirements of the display device to be produced, the corresponding modules are selected and connected to one another via the interfaces in accordance with the defined connections. Thus, the display modules 6 and 7 can be designed the same or different.

In Figure 3, the modular concept of Figures 1 and 2 is shown again schematically. Thus, the image module 15 is connected to the optics module 16 via the defined optomechanical connection 26 and the defined electrical connection 27. The defined electromechanical connection 28 is present between the optics module 16 and the support module 1.

In order to provide a modular system for constructing a display device that is applicable to the head of a user in accordance with the concept of FIG. So in addition to the shown glasses-like wearing module also a wearing module in the form of a helmet, a wearing module in the form of a baseball cap, a wearing module that lies in the manner of a band around the head, and a wearing module that is pressed elastically against the forehead. Self-illuminating and non-self-illuminating image modules can be provided for the image modules. In particular, image modules can be provided in which the imaging element is an OLED module, an LCD module, a DMD module or a GLV module. The optics module 16 shown can be designed such that the viewer, as indicated in FIG. 2, can only perceive the image generated. The image generated can, for example, also be a picture of the surroundings. Furthermore, a further optical module can be provided, with which the viewer can perceive an overlay of the surroundings with the generated image. This can be done by optically superimposing the surroundings on the generated image or in a time-multiplexed manner, in which the viewer can alternately only perceive the generated image and only the surroundings. Furthermore, optical modules with different optical imaging qualities and / or weight can be provided.

FIG. 4 schematically shows a further embodiment of the modular display device, in which the optics and image modules 16, 15 are connected to one another via the defined optomechanical connection 26. There is a defined electromechanical connection 29 between the image module 15 and the support module 1, and a defined mechanical connection 30 is provided between the optics module 16 and the support module 1. The mechanical connection 30 can also be designed as an electromechanical connection if the optical module requires an electrical power supply. In this variant too, a modular system can be provided with a number of image, optics and / or support modules, each of which has interfaces according to the defined connections 28, 29 and 30, so that the individual modules can be interchanged with one another as desired.

FIG. 5 shows a further embodiment of the modular display device, in which there is a defined electromechanical connection 29 between the support module 1 and the image module 15 and the defined optomechanical connection 26 between the image module 15 and the optics module 16. Also in this case, a modular System with several carrying, optical and / or image modules are provided, in which the modules have interfaces according to the defined connections, so that the modules are interchangeable.

FIG. 6 shows a further development of the modular display device from FIGS. 1 and 2. In this development, a signal output module 31 is attached to the right side bracket 3 and is designed as headphones. The signal output module 31 has a defined one Electromechanical connection connected to the side bracket 3. For this purpose, the signal output module 31 has an electromechanical interface, which cooperates with the electromechanical interface of the second bracket 3 in such a way that, in the case of a mechanical connection, the signal output module 31 with the side bracket 3 also has the desired electrical connection to the corresponding lines 10, 11 and 12 , Since the lines 10, 11 and 12 run on the upper side of the side bracket 3, the signal output module 30 can be fastened at any point (seen in the longitudinal direction) of the side bracket and, if appropriate, also shifted in the longitudinal direction, as indicated by the double arrow 32, to allow adaptation to the individual user. For this purpose, the side bracket 3 preferably has a non-round cross-sectional shape.

Furthermore, the display device in this embodiment also includes a signal recording module 33, which in turn is electromechanically connected to the right bracket 3 and is displaceable in the longitudinal direction of the bracket 3, as indicated by the double arrow 34. The signal recording device 33 can be, for example, a microphone and / or a camera, wherein the signals of the device 33 can be passed via the lines 10-12, the connection 13 and the line feed 14 to a signal processing device (not shown).

A further embodiment is shown in FIG. 7, in which the two side brackets 3, 4 are constructed symmetrically to one another in such a way that lines 10 - 12 or 35, 36 and 37 run in both brackets. The lines 35-37 are connected in the same way as the lines 10-12 via a connection 38 to a line feed 39 only partially shown. The front section 2 is formed here in two parts and has a first and second section 40, 41, the front ends of which are both slidably mounted in the nose pad 5, as indicated by the double arrow 42, so that the distance D between the two front ends and thus the distance between the two side brackets 3 and 4 can be changed. In this embodiment, the display module 6 for the right eye and the display module 7 for the left eye can be supplied with different image information (for example for a three-dimensional display).

In the embodiments of FIGS. 6 and 7, the same nose part 5 can be used, which is rotatable, for example, about the longitudinal direction of the front section (e.g. by 180 °) and thereby establishes or breaks an electrical connection between the two sections 40 and 41.

A further embodiment of the modular display devices is shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the front section 2 being different from the previous embodiments is pivotally connected to the two brackets 3, 4. The image and the optics module 43 and 44 are here somewhat more compact than in the embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2, so that there is an electro-optomechanical connection with other specifications. The image and the optics module 43, 44 therefore have electro-optomechanical interfaces in accordance with these specifications. The image module 43 in turn comprises a control circuit 45, an image-forming element 46 and electrical lines 47, 48 and the optics unit 43 comprises an imaging optics 49, which is shown here schematically as a prism with two lenses. A correction module 50 is optomechanically connected to a correction lens 51 with the optics module 44. The correction module 50 can, but does not have to be connected to the optics module 41. The correction module 48 can be used, for example, with spectacle wearers so that they can use the display device without their own glasses. Of course, each of the display modules 6, 7 can also have a correction module, with coding of the correction modules preferably being provided in such a way that the correction module for the right and left eye cannot be interchanged.

Since the support module 1 is designed so that the entire front main section 2 and the modules attached to the main section can be pivoted upward, as shown in Fig. 9, the user can perceive the environment undisturbed with the display device attached (Fig. 9) and if necessary, position the display devices in front of his eye (Fig. 8).

The pivotable connection of the front section 2 with the brackets 3 and 4 can be designed such that an electrical connection of the lines provided in the brackets 3 and 4 with the lines on the front section 2 is only present in the state shown in FIG. 8. Alternatively, it is of course also possible to design the pivotable connection such that an electrical connection is also present in the pivoted position shown in FIG. An electrical slip ring can be provided for this.

Alternatively, an optical slip ring can also be used, in which the signal is transmitted to the moving part via an optocoupler. A preferred embodiment is when the optocoupler, which comprises a transmitter diode attached to the fixed part and a receiver diode attached to the movable, pivotable part, is designed so that the two diodes lie exactly on the axis of rotation of the pivoting movement.

The image data cannot only be transmitted electrically via the lines. In a modification, it is also possible to design the right and / or left temple 3, 4 as a light guide. The light guide region preferably extends to the front section 2 or even into this. The end of the light guide is flexible from the bracket 3, 4 or led out front section 2 and connected to the image module 15, 43 via a special connector. This ensures that this interface can be flexibly adapted to different eye distances of the user and thus different positions of the display modules 6, 7. The image data are preferably transmitted by light signals in the infrared range.

In each of the above embodiments, the support module 1 itself can be modular. For example, the side brackets 3 and 4 can be exchanged for differently shaped side brackets.

An essential aspect of the present invention is that the connections between the individual modules are defined or standardized, so that the modules have interfaces according to the defined connections, whereby the interchangeability of the modules with one another or any combination of the modules with each other is made possible. Each of the modular display devices described can thus be formed from a corresponding modular system with a plurality of image, optics and support modules.

FIG. 10 shows a modification of the modular display device from FIG. 1 in perspective, the left side bracket 4 not being shown by the support module 1. The same elements as in the previous embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals and their description is not repeated.

In contrast to the embodiment of FIG. 1, in the modification according to FIG. 10 described here, the temple 3 is formed in two parts, the lines 10, 11, 12 and 53 running in a front section 52 and the front section 52 of the right temple bracket the main section 2 is connected via a hinge 78. The right bracket 3 further comprises a rear section 54 connected to the front section 52, in which the lines 10, 11, 12, 53 no longer run. The lines 10-12, 53 are led out of the front section 52 at the rear end 55 of the front section 52, and are fastened to the rear section 54 as a bundle of cables 56 with cable clips 57, 58. It is thereby advantageously achieved that the rear temple section 54 can be deformed in order to adapt the carrying module 1 to a user, as is usually carried out with glasses. In particular, the rear section 54 can be heated and deformed, the deformation being retained after cooling. This deformation of the rear section 54 does not lead to any damage or breakage of the lines 10-12, 53, since these are connected as cable bundles 56 to the rear section 54 only at the locations of the cable clamps 57, 58, and are therefore only bent accordingly in the event of deformations become. Alternatively, it is possible, as shown in FIG. 11, for the cable bundle 56 to run in the rear section 54. In this case, the cable bundle 56 is preferably arranged in the rear section in such a way that it can move somewhat in its direction of extension relative to the rear section 54, so that when the rear section is bent and deformed, the cable bundle 56 moves relative to the rear section 54, so that damage to the cable bundle can be excluded.

A region of the main section 2 is shown enlarged in FIG. As can be seen from this illustration, in the side of the main section 2 facing away from the user, when the user carries the display device on his head, there are recesses 59, 60, 61, 62 which are open towards the front and which are in the direction of displacement 8 of the display modules 6 and 7 extend, provided in which the lines 10, 11, 12 and 53 are embedded. Lines 10-12 and 53 are embedded so that they are partially exposed, so that contact with lines 10-12 and 53 can be made via a corresponding pickup (as described below in connection with FIG. 13) remains even when the display module 6 is moved.

On the upper side of the main section 2, ribs or notches 63 extending transversely to the direction of displacement 8 are provided, which cooperate with corresponding ribs or notches 64 of the optical module 16. In the representation of FIG. 12, only the partial area of the optical module 16 is shown which has the ribs 64 on its underside. Furthermore, FIG. 12 is an exploded view, so that the ribs 64 are clearly spaced from the ribs 63. In fact, the ribs 64 lie on the ribs 63, so that the optical module 16 and thus the display module 6 can only be displaced by a predetermined increment (which is predetermined by the shape of the ribs 63 and 64) during a displacement in the displacement direction 8.

FIG. 13 shows a section through the main section 2, to which a contact slide 65 of the display module 6 is fastened. The contact carriage 65 engages around the main section 2 on its upper and lower sides so that it has a C-shaped cross section. Furthermore, the contact carriage 65 contains four resiliently biased consumers 66, 67, 68, 69 which are in contact with the lines 10 -12 and 53 and maintain this contact even when the display module 6 and thus the contact carriage 65 are displaced in the direction of displacement 8.

The contact carriage may further include slide bearings 70-74, as shown. Furthermore, it is possible to provide a locking screw 75 with which a desired position of the display module 6 can be permanently fixed. FIG. 14 shows a front view of the display device according to FIG. 10, again only an enlarged section of the main section 2 being shown. The displacement range D1, D2 of the display module 6 and the displacement range D3 and D4 of the correspondingly constructed display module 7 are selected here so that a pupil distance (PD) can be set in the range from 52 mm to 72 mm. If the dimensions D2 and D3 are 0 mm, the minimum pupil distance PD is set to 52 mm. If the distances D1 and D4 are 0 mm, the maximum pupil distance of 72 mm is set. The length of the open recesses 59-62, that is to say the regions in which the lines 10, 11, 12 and 53 can be contacted, since they have a freely accessible side to the front, is selected accordingly. Of course, the length of the depressions 59-62 can also be greater. The display modules 6 and 7 can be moved independently of one another or also symmetrically to a point (for example point M in the middle between the two contact areas).

FIG. 15 shows a view corresponding to that in FIG. 14. In contrast to the embodiment of FIG. 14, the contact carriage 65 'is designed such that it has a housing 76 which covers the depressions 59-62, regardless of the corresponding position in the direction of displacement. Therefore, the lines 10 - 12 and 53 are shown in dashed lines. Furthermore, the pickups 66-69 are shown schematically. Furthermore, it can be seen from the illustration that the ribs 64 are pressed against the ribs 63 by a spring 77, so that the desired locking or gradual displacement is achieved.

The lines 10-12 and 53 can be formed from any conductive material. In particular, they can be coated with fine gold to protect them against environmental influences. Alternatively, palladium can be used as the material. The pickups 66-69 or the corresponding conductive parts can be formed from any conductive material. In particular, a copper-beryllium alloy can be used.

The lines 10-12 and 53 can have any cross-sectional shape. They can have the trapezoidal shape shown. Alternatively, a circular or oval wire cross section can also be present. The distance between the lines 10 - 12 and 53 is selected so that no breakdown in air can occur at the voltages used here. With voltages of, for example, a maximum of 5 V, a distance of, for example, 0.1 mm can be selected. A sufficient number of lines can thus be integrated into the main part 2 and the bracket 3, 4.

Two of the lines, for example lines 10 and 53, can be used to supply power to the display module 6. The other two lines can be used as a bus system over which the necessary data for image display is transmitted. In particular, video or image data can be transmitted in RGB, YC or FBAS format.

16 shows a view from above of the area of the right joint or hinge 78 between the main part 2 and the right bracket 3. To ensure the electrical connection between the lines in the main part 2 and the lines in the bracket 3, a spring-biased contact pin 79 is arranged in the bracket 3, which protrudes somewhat over the front end of the bracket 3 in the position shown. When the bracket 3 is fully opened, the contact pin 79 is pressed against the corresponding contact area 80 of the associated line 10 -12, 53, so that the desired electrical connection is present. Of course, the contact pin 79 can be arranged in the main part 2 and the corresponding contact area 80 can be provided at the front end of the bracket 3.

FIG. 17 shows a top view of a modification of the embodiment of FIG. 10. In addition to the display modules 6 and 7, a camera 81 is attached to the right bracket 3 in this embodiment. A so-called headset 82 is attached to the left bracket 4 and has an earphone 83 and a microphone 84 (FIG. 18). The earphone 83 and the microphone 84 are connected to the headset main part 87 via corresponding extensions or swivel arms 85 and 86. In the sectional view of FIG. 18 it can be seen that the main part 87 encompasses the right bracket 4 at the top, since it has approximately a C-shaped cross section, from below a counter plate 88 is fastened to the main part 87 with a screw 89. The counter plate 88 presses against the bracket 4 from below, so that the headset 62 is securely attached to the bracket 4. In the same way, the camera 81 is attached to the right bracket 3, as shown in FIG. 19. Here, too, a camera main part 90 is placed on the bracket from above (since it has approximately a C-shaped cross section) and is locked on the bracket 3 with a counterplate 91, which is fastened to the main part 90.

Of course, the camera 81 and the headset 82 can be arranged displaceably on the bracket in the same way as the display modules 6 and 7. In this case too, corresponding lines are then provided, which are tapped via sliding contacts.

The counter plates 88 and 92 can also be resiliently biased so that the corresponding main parts 87 and 90 of the headset 82 and the camera 81 are placed on the brackets from above and brought into the position shown in FIGS. 18 and 19 with a simultaneous pivoting movement.

Alternatively, it is possible to detach the camera 81 and the headset 82 from the bracket by moving them along the bracket 3, 4. In this case, the counter plates 88 and 92 do not have to Be spring biased. Of course, it is possible that they are still spring-loaded or that they themselves have a certain resilient deformability. This also applies to the described alternative of clipping on the camera 81 and / or the headset 82.

Of course, the left and right display modules 6 and 7 can also be clipped onto the main part 2 or slid onto the side in the manner described. In particular, the display modules 6, 7 can be detached from the main part. Furthermore, it is possible to use only one of the display modules 6 and 7. In this case, a monocular display device is provided.

The lines 10 - 12 and 53 can also be embedded in the brackets 3, 4 so that they have an open contact side, so that e.g. the camera 81 and the headset 82 can be moved in the longitudinal direction of the bracket and the contact with the lines is maintained. Sliding contacts can be provided in the same way as described in connection with the display module 6.

In particular, the lines in the brackets 3 and 4 together with the lines in the main part can form a bus system via which the elements provided on the brackets, e.g. the camera 81 and the headset 82 communicate with the display modules 6, 7. Other elements can also be attached to the brackets, e.g. Sensors, in particular brightness sensors for regulating the brightness of the display by means of the display module 6, 7 or acceleration sensors (in particular for tracking purposes).

The main part 2 and the eyeglass temples 3, 4 can, for example, be made of glass fiber reinforced plastic.

The lines 11, 12 for the bus system can in particular be provided in such a number and in such a way that USB signals, Firewire signals or IEEE 1394 signals can be routed through them. Of course, all other possible bus systems can also be implemented.

Further possible modules that can be attached to the bracket (s) 3 and 4 and / or the main section 2 are, for example, a power supply unit (for example a rechargeable battery) and a radio unit for establishing a wireless connection with a further device spaced from the display device, for example, a computer that provides the corresponding image data. - 1 ö -

20 shows a further modification of the display device. This differs from the display devices described so far in that the carrying module 1 is no longer glasses-like (the spectacle arms 3 and 4 are omitted), but in that it comprises a helmet (not shown) on which the front section 2 has a connecting element 93 of the helmet is attached. The connecting element 93 extends vertically downward from the helmet at the level of the nose of a user wearing the helmet and is connected to the main section 2 between the two display modules 6 and 7. The connecting element 93 can in particular be designed such that it can be detachably connected to the main section 2 (for example a clamp or plug connection) and only in the connected state (in which mechanical fixation is preferably present, for example by means of a clamp screw or a releasable catch) there is electrical contact between corresponding lines 10-12, 53 and the feed lines 10 ', 11', 12 'and 53', as indicated by points 94, 95, 96 and 97.

A further embodiment, as shown in FIG. 20, can also consist in that the connecting element 93 is firmly connected to the main section 2. Corresponding fixed, fixed plated-through holes 94, 95, 96, 97 are then present, which forward the bus signals from the connecting element 93 to the main section 2 via the crossing points 94, 95, 96, 97. In this embodiment, a further special feature is that the connecting element 93 has contact surfaces at the upper end on the feed lines 10 ', 11', 12 'and 53' (not shown in more detail here), which have corresponding mating contacts on the helmet (not in more detail here) shown) can be connected. The connection can be designed in the manner of a plug inserted into a socket. Thus, when the part 93 is inserted into a helmet plug device, both the electrical contact is made and a mechanical connection is made, which can then be locked by a mechanical clamping device on the plug side (ie on the helmet). The clamping device is e.g. be designed so that a lever (e.g. on a helmet or head carrier) attached to the outside actuates an eccentrically mounted roller, which clamps the part 93 in a parallel guide and preferably presses against the mating contacts. To release the connection, the clamp connection can then be released again by lifting the lever and it is possible to unplug part 93 from the helmet plug-in device or helmet holder or also head carrier holder.

Another special feature of this arrangement is that the part 93 can be clamped and contacted at different heights by the bus design. This means that a basic adjustment at the desired height to match the viewing height of the eyes is possible at the same time.

Claims

claims

1. Modular system for constructing a display device to be worn on the head of a user, which comprises a support module (1) which can be fastened to the head of a user and a display module (6, 7) which is connected to the support module (1) and which forms an image on the basis of predetermined image data generated and displayed in such a way that it can be detected by the user carrying the display device, the display module (6, 7) an image module (15, 43) for generating the image and an optically and mechanically connected optical module (15, 43) to the image module (15, 43) 16, 44) for imaging the generated image, the modular system comprising a first support module (1), a first image module (15, 43), a first optics module (16, 44) and at least one further image and / or optics module ( 15, 43; 16, 44) which are / are different from the corresponding first image or optics module, each image module (15, 43) having a first optomechanical interface and each optics module (16, 44) having the first optomechanical n Interface connectable second optomechanical interface, so that a freely selectable image module of the image modules (15, 43) of the modular system with a freely selectable optics module (16, 44) of the optics modules of the modular system can be optically and mechanically connected via the two optomechanical interfaces to form a display module (6, 7).

2. System according to claim 1, wherein the optomechanical interfaces are designed such that when the mechanical connection is present, the optical connection is also present.

3. System according to claim 1, wherein the first support module (1) and possibly further provided support modules each have a first electromechanical interface and each image module (15, 43) has a second electromechanical interface that can be connected to the first electromechanical interface, so that via the two electromechanical interfaces a freely selectable image module of the image modules (15, 43) of the system with a freely selectable support module (1) of the support modules of the system is mechanically and electrically connectable.

4. System according to claim 2, wherein the first support module (1) and optionally further provided support modules each have a first electromechanical interface and each

Optics module (16, 44) has a second electromechanical interface that can be connected to the first electromechanical interface, so that a freely selectable optics module (16, 44) of the optics modules of the system with a freely selectable carrying module of the carrying modules (1) of the system can be used via the two electromechanical interfaces is mechanically and electrically connectable.

5. System according to claim 4, wherein the two optomechanical interfaces are designed such that when the mechanical connection is present there is also an electrical connection between the interconnected optics module (16, 44) and image module (15, 43).

6. System according to one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the two electromechanical interfaces are designed such that the electrical connection is present when the mechanical connection is present.

7. System according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein the two electromechanical interfaces are designed so that the optics or image module (16, 44; 15, 43) can be attached to the support module (1) at different positions.

8. System according to claim 7, wherein the two electromechanical interfaces are designed so that the image or optics module (15, 44; 16, 43) is slidably attached to the support module.

9. System according to one of the above claims, wherein the first support module (1) and optionally further provided support modules of the system each have a third electromechanical interface and the system has a fourth electromechanical interface that can be connected to the third electromechanical interface, signal module ( 31, 33) for recording and / or reproducing signals, wherein a freely selectable support module (1) of the support modules of the system and the signal module (31, 33) can be electrically and mechanically connected via the electromechanical interface.

10. System according to one of the above claims 3 to 9, in which the respective electromechanical interface is designed such that an electrical bus system for communication between the modules is present.

11. System according to one of the above claims, wherein the first support module (1) and possibly further provided support modules of the system each have a third optomechanical interface and the system has a fourth optomechanical interface which can be connected to the third optomechanical interface, 31, 33) for recording and / or reproducing signals, wherein a freely selectable support module (1) of the support modules of the system and the signal module (31, 33) can be optically and mechanically connected via the optomechanical interface.