WO2025226221A1

WO2025226221A1 - Positioning and stabilising structure for eye mask comprising straps

Info

Publication number: WO2025226221A1
Application number: PCT/SG2025/050275
Authority: WO
Inventors: Thontira SUPAOPASPHUN; Michiel Kooij; Chiew Khuen WONG; Stewart Joseph Wagner
Original assignee: Resmed Pty Ltd; Resmed Asia Operations Pte Ltd
Current assignee: Resmed Pty Ltd; Resmed Asia Operations Pte Ltd
Priority date: 2024-04-25
Filing date: 2025-04-24
Publication date: 2025-10-30
Anticipated expiration: 2026-10-25

Abstract

This disclosure concerns eye mask. The eye mask comprises an eye component positionable over at least orbital regions of a face of a user and configured to block light to eyes of the user; a face-contacting structure connected to or contiguous with the eye 5 component; and a positioning and stabilising structure for attaching the eye mask to the user's face. The positioning and stabilizing structure comprises two straps configured to extend along respective sides of the user's head.

Description

Positioning and Stabilising Structure for Eye Mask Comprising Straps

Technical Field

The present invention relates, in general terms, to a positioning and stabilising structure for an eye mask comprising straps.

Background

Sleep is an important component to an individual's wellbeing, growth and vitality. It is also important in today's overstimulated and highly stressed world. In particular, maintaining the wholeness and wholesomeness of the sleep/wake cycle day-to-day and month-to-month is essential to preserve personal well-being and happiness as well as the productivity and good order of society at large. Ideally, the rhythm of the sleep/wake cycle would be governed by the natural order of each day's sunrise and sunset. The artificial routines of modern personal and social life, however, have eclipsed the rhythms of nature making it more difficult to wake up and go to sleep at appointed times the more the exigencies of one's own routines are in conflict with the natural cycle of things.

Eye masks with a light-tight design which provides a condition of total darkness are known to help stimulate melatonin production and thus serve to promote a state of sleep. However, current eye masks may be uncomfortable, especially for a side sleeper, or too heavy or cumbersome to use.

Certain eye masks may be uncomfortable or impractical, for example, if used for prolonged time periods. Certain eye masks can be complicated for users to attach and to correctly position on the head for effective use.

As a consequence of these challenges, some eye masks suffer from being one or more of obtrusive, aesthetically undesirable, costly, poorly fitting, difficult to use, and uncomfortable especially when worn for long periods of time or when a user is unfamiliar with a system.

It would be desirable to overcome or ameliorate at least one of the above-described problems, or at least to provide a useful alternative. Summary

The present technology is directed towards providing devices used in the screening, diagnosis, monitoring, amelioration, treatment, or prevention of respiratory and/or sleep disorders, and/or monitoring and/or improvement of sleep health generally, having one or more of improved comfort, cost, efficacy, ease of use and manufacturability.

A first aspect of the present technology relates to apparatus used in the screening, diagnosis, monitoring, amelioration, treatment or prevention of a respiratory and/or sleep disorder.

Another aspect of the present technology relates to methods used in the screening, diagnosis, monitoring, amelioration, treatment or prevention of a respiratory and/or sleep disorder.

An aspect of certain forms of the present technology is to provide methods and/or apparatus that improve the compliance of users with respiratory and/or sleep therapy.

An aspect of certain forms of the present technology is to provide methods and/or apparatus that improve the quality of sleep of users.

Forms of the present technology comprise an eye mask, comprising : a) an eye component positionable over at least orbital regions of a face of a user and configured to block light to eyes of the user; b) an face-contacting structure connected to or contiguous with the eye component; and c) a positioning and stabilising structure for attaching the eye mask to the user's face, the positioning and stabilizing structure comprising two straps configured to extend along respective sides of the user's head.

In one form of the present technology, the eye component comprises a main body and a pair of rigidizer arms connected to respective sides of the main body, and wherein the two straps are provided to respective ones of the pair of rigidizer arms. In one form of the present technology, the two straps each comprises a hollow ribbon structure to receive the respective rigidizer arms.

In one form of the present technology, the two straps each comprises a slit-like configuration adapted to receive the respective rigidiser arms.

In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure is bifurcated into two back strap portions, the back strap portions adapted to extend along the back of the user's head.

In one form of the present technology, each end of the two straps includes a finger tab.

In one form of the present technology, the two straps comprises a first longer strap and a second shorter strap.

In one form of the present technology, the first longer strap comprising the two back strap portions.

In one form of the present technology, the two straps are made of an elastic material.

In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure has a width of about 20 mm to about 30 mm.

In one form of the present technology, a length of the two back strap portions relative to a length of the positioning and stabilising structure is about 35% to about 60%.

In one form of the present technology, the two straps are connected to one another by an adjustment mechanism.

In one form of the present technology, the adjustment mechanism comprises a buckle, the buckle comprising a first end portion curved relative to a second end portion.

In one form of the present technology, the first end portion is curved away from a user when in use. In one form of the present technology, the second end portion is non-adjustably connected to an end of the second shorter strap.

In one form of the present technology, the back strap portions are adapted to engage with the buckle.

In one form of the present technology, the buckle comprises a first opening configured to receive both back strap portions and a pair of second openings each configured to receive respective ones of the back strap portions.

In one form of the present technology, the pair of second openings each includes an angled edge.

In one form of the present technology, the buckle comprises a base formed from a rigid material, and an overmold formed from a relatively softer material.

Brief description of the drawings

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the drawings in which:

FIG. 1A shows an eye mask in a use position.

FIG. IB shows a back view of the eye mask of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2A shows an eye mask in a pre-use position.

FIG. 2B shows an eye mask in a use position.

FIG. 2C shows an eye mask in a pre-use position.

FIG. 3A shows an eye mask in a use position.

FIG. 3B shows a user facing side of the eye component and face-contacting structure of eye mask of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 4A shows an eye mask in a use position.

FIG. 4B shows a perspective view of the eye mask of FIG. 4A.

FIG. 4C shows an exploded view of a noise reduction component.

FIG. 5A shows an eye mask in a use position.

FIG. 5B shows a side view of the eye mask of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 6A shows an eye mask in a use position. FIG. 6B shows a side view of the eye mask of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 7A shows an eye mask in a use position.

FIG. 7B shows a back view of the eye mask of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 7C shows a back view of the eye mask of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 8A shows an eye mask in a use position.

FIG. 8B shows a back view of the eye mask of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 9A shows an eye mask in a pre-use position.

FIG. 9B shows an eye mask in a use position.

FIG. 9C shows a top view of the eye mask of FIG. 9A.

FIG. 10A shows an eye mask in a pre-use position.

FIG. 10B shows an eye mask in a use position.

FIG. 11A shows an eye mask in a use position.

FIG. 11B shows a back view of the eye mask of FIG. 11A.

FIG. 12A shows an eye mask in a use position.

FIG. 12B shows an exploded view of the eye mask with a cooling means.

FIG. 13A shows an eye mask in a use position.

FIG. 13B shows a back view of the eye mask of FIG. 13A.

FIG. 14 shows front and back views of an eye mask.

FIG. 15A shows a front view of an eye mask.

FIG. 15B shows a back view of the eye mask of FIG. 15A.

FIG. 16A shows an eye mask in a pre-use position.

FIG. 16B shows the eye mask of FIG. 16A in a use position.

FIG. 17 shows use and pre-use positions of an eye mask.

FIG. 18A shows a back view of an eye mask.

FIG. 18B shows another back view of eye mask of FIG. 18A.

FIG. 19A shows a side view of an eye mask.

FIG. 19B shows blown up portion of the connection between the eye component and the positioning and stabilising structure of the eye mask of FIG. 19A.

FIG. 19C shows blown up portion of adjustment mechanism of the eye mask of FIG. 19A.

FIG. 20A is a schematic perspective view showing a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 20B shows a cross-section through line 44B-44B of FIG. 20A.

FIG. 21 is a top view of positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology. FIG. 22 is an exploded view of the positioning and stabilising structure of FIG. 21.

FIG. 23 is an enlarged view of an end of a strap portion of the positioning and stabilising structure of FIG. 21.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a buckle of the positioning and stabilising structure of FIG. 21.

FIG. 25 is a front view of the buckle of FIG. 24.

FIG. 26 is a top view of the buckle of FIG. 24.

FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view of the buckle of FIG. 24.

FIG. 28 is an enlarged portion of the cross-section shown in FIG. 27.

FIGS. 29 and 30 are cross-sectional views showing strap adjustment of the positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIGS. 31A and 31B are various views showing adjusting of the buckle according to an example of the present technology.

Detailed description

Before the present technology is described in further detail, it is to be understood that the technology is not limited to the particular examples described herein, which may vary. It will be appreciated that many further modifications and permutations of various aspects of the described embodiments are possible. Accordingly, the described aspects are intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. It is also to be understood that the terminology used in this disclosure is for the purpose of describing only the particular examples discussed herein, and is not intended to be limiting.

The following description is provided in relation to various examples which may share one or more common characteristics and/or features. It is to be understood that one or more features of any one example may be combinable with one or more features of another example or other examples. In addition, any single feature or combination of features in any of the examples may constitute a further example.

Throughout this specification and the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise", and variations such as "comprises" and "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps. Throughout this specification and the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the phrase "consisting essentially of", and variations such as "consists essentially of" will be understood to indicate that the recited element(s) is/are essential i.e. necessary elements of the invention. The phrase allows for the presence of other non-recited elements which do not materially affect the characteristics of the invention but excludes additional unspecified elements which would affect the basic and novel characteristics of the method defined.

The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from it), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgment or admission or any form of suggestion that that prior publication (or information derived from it) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates.

Eye Mask

The eye mask in accordance with one aspect of the present technology comprises the following functional aspects: an eye component positionable over at least orbital regions of a face of a user and configured to block light to eyes of the user, a face-contacting structure connected to or contiguous with the eye component. A positioning and stabilising structure for retaining the eye mask on the user's face is attachable to the eye mask. In some forms a functional aspect may be provided by one or more physical components. In some forms, one physical component may provide one or more functional aspects. In use, the eye component blocks out light to the user's eyes, and the face-contacting structure may further block out any other stray light to the eyes of the user.

The eye mask in accordance with one form of the present technology is constructed and arranged to be able to provide comfort to the user in use, by blocking out light, and optionally sound. The eye mask may be geometrically sized to fit any head size. In particular, the eye mask may be geometrically sized to fit an Asian's head. The size may, for example, be calculated based on anthropological data from an Asian population.

The eye mask in accordance with one form of the present technology is constructed and arranged to be able to monitor and diagnose a sleep pattern or sleep state of a user. In some forms, the eye mask may provide a corrective output to the user based on the sleep pattern or sleep state. In some forms of the present technology, the eye mask further comprises a sensor module, a cooling module, a flip module, a noise reduction component, an imaging module, or a combination thereof.

Eye Component

At least part of the eye component may be resiliently stretchable to enable it to be readily fitted to the user's head, and to accommodate a variety of different head sizes. In some embodiments, the entirety of the eye mask may be stretchable in at least a radial direction.

In one form of the present technology, the eye component is sized to block light to the eyes of the user. In this regard, in use, the eye component is sized such that it covers at least orbital regions of a face of a user. The orbital region includes a supra-orbital region. The eye component may be configured to block light to eyes of the user. The eye component may be sized to cover more than the orbital regions of the user's face. The eye component may be sized to further cover a portion of an infra-orbital region of the user in use. The eye component may be sized to further cover a portion of a nasal region of the user. The eye component may be sized to further cover a portion of a zygomatic region of the user. The eye component may be sized to further cover a forehead of the user. An oversized eye component may double up as a pillow and provide comfort to the user.

In one form of the present technology, the eye component is sized to cover at least a portion of a frontal region, orbital regions, zygomatic region and nasal bridge of a face of a user.

In one form of the present technology, the eye mask comprises at least one cavity at a user facing side. The eye component may act in combination with the face-contacting structure to form the cavity. In this regard, the cavity may be bordered by edges of the face-contacting structure and an inner surface of the eye component. The cavity may be configured to space the eye component apart from the eyes of the user. Accordingly, an internal surface of the eye component is spaced apart from the eyes of the user during use. The cavity may be characterised by a depth of about 1 cm to about 15 cm, about 1 cm to about 14 cm, about 1 cm to about 13 cm, about 1 cm to about 12 cm, about 1 cm to about 11 cm, about 1 cm to about 10 cm, about 2 cm to about 10 cm, about 3 cm to about 10 cm, about 4 cm to about 10 cm, about 5 cm to about 10 cm, about 6 cm to about 10 cm, about 7 cm to about 10 cm, or about 8 cm to about 10 cm. The depth of the cavity may be configured by varying the height of the face-contacting structure.

In one form of the present technology, the eye component has a curved morphology. The curved morphology may be relative to a frontal plane of the user and/or a transverse plane of the user. The curved morphology of the eye component conforms to the user's face, and provides better skin contact and light blocking. For example, the eye component may be a hyperbolic paraboloid.

In one form of the present technology, the eye component is formed as a loop or band, and the eye component is configured to loop circumferentially around a user's head.

In one form of the present technology, the eye component comprises a left section positionable over a left orbital region of the user's face and a right section positionable over a right orbital region of the user's face. The left section and right section may be similarly sized. The left and right section may be held in position relative to each other by the face-contacting structure.

In one form of the present technology, the eye component comprises at least one pocket. The pocket may be sized to house a sensor module, a cooling module, a flip module, a noise reduction component, an imaging module, or a combination thereof.

In one form of the present technology, the eye component comprises wings extending from its horizontal sides thereof. The wings may be adapted to cover a portion of the temporal bone of the user in use.

In one form of the present technology, the eye component is formed from a perforated, light blocking fabric material or composite material. The eye component may be made breathable, so as to provide comfort to the user. For example, silk, cotton or fleece may be used. The eye component may be formed from a material selected from perforated textile, breathable foam and/or fiber. Fabrics that are naturally thick and dense may also be used, such as velvet, heavy cotton, or woven jacquard. These fabrics have a tighter weave or a heavier weight, which helps to minimise the amount of light that can penetrate the material. Alternatively, a fabric composite material may be used. The composite material may be a laminated material.

In some forms of the present technology, the eye component is formed from an elastic fabric material. For example, polyester, cotton, spandex, or nylon may be used, which may be further laminated with another fabric to increase its light blocking properties.

In some forms of the present technology, the eye component comprises at least one engagement means for engaging with the positioning and stabilising structure. The engagement means may be a hinged pin or a buckle. The positioning and stabilising structure may be connected to the eye component by a bonding adhesive, molding or stitching. The engagement means may be positioned at opposite ends of the eye component, along its horizontal axis thereof. For example, the engagement means may be on wings of the eye component. In some forms of the present technology, the eye component comprises arms for engaging with the positioning and stabilising structure.

Face-contacting Structure

The eye mask includes a face-contacting structure. Since it is in direct contact with the user's face, the shape and configuration of the face-contacting structure can have a direct impact on the effectiveness and comfort of the eye mask.

The design of a face-contacting structure presents a number of challenges. The face has a complex three-dimensional shape. The size and shape of noses and heads varies considerably between individuals. Since the head includes bone, cartilage and soft tissue, different regions of the face respond differently to mechanical forces.

One type of face-contacting structure extends around the periphery of the eye mask and is intended to seal against the user's face when force is applied to the user interface with the face-contacting structure in confronting engagement with the user's face. The face-contacting structure may include a pad made of a polyurethane (PU). With this type of face-contacting structure, there may be gaps between the face-contacting structure and the face, and additional force may be required to force the eye mask against the face in order to achieve the desired contact.

The regions not engaged at all by the face-contacting structure may allow gaps to form between the face-contacting structure and the user's face through which undesirable light pollution may ingress into the eye mask. The light pollution or "light leak" may decrease the efficacy and enjoyment of the overall immersive experience, or reduce the effectiveness of the eye mask as a sleep aid, for the user. In addition, previous systems may be difficult to adjust to enable application for a wide variety of head sizes. Further still, previously known eye masks and their associated stabilizing structures may often be relatively heavy and may be difficult to clean which may thus further limit the comfort and useability of the system.

Another type of face-contacting structure incorporates a flap seal of thin material positioned about a portion of the periphery thereof so as to provide a sealing action against the face of the user. Like the previous style of face-contacting structure, if the match between the face and the face-contacting structure is not good, additional force may be required to achieve a seal, or light may leak into the eye mask in-use. Furthermore, if the shape of the face-contacting structure does not match that of the user, it may crease or buckle in-use, giving rise to undesirable light penetration.

Some face-contacting structures may be limited to engaging with regions of the user's face that protrude beyond the arc of curvature of the face engaging surface of the facecontacting structure. These regions may typically include the user's forehead and cheek bones. This may result in user discomfort at localised stress points. Other facial regions may not be engaged at all by the face-contacting structure or may only be engaged in a negligible manner that may thus be insufficient to increase the translation distance of the clamping pressure. These regions may typically include the sides of the user's face, or the region adjacent and surrounding the user's nose. To the extent to which there is a mismatch between the shape of the users' face and the face-contacting structure, it is advantageous for the face-contacting structure or a related component to be adaptable in order for an appropriate contact or other relationship to form.

In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure provides a target interfacing region, and may additionally provide a cushioning function. The target interfacing region is a region on the face-contacting structure where contact of the face- contacting structure with the user's face may occur. The region where contact actually occurs may change within a given sleep session, from day to day, and from user to user, depending on a range of factors including for example, where the eye mask was placed on the face, tension in the positioning and stabilising structure and the shape of a user's face.

The face-contacting structure is connected to or contiguous with the eye component. The face-contacting structure acts together with the eye component to block out light to the user's eyes. For example, the face-contacting structure may be laminated to the eye component.

In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is configured to contact at least the orbital regions of the user's face. The face-contacting structure may also contact eyes of the user, providing slight pressure on the eyes to aid sleep.

In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is configured to contact a supra-orbital region of the user's face. The face-contacting structure may be formed to contact more than the orbital regions of the user's face. The face-contacting structure may further contact an infra-orbital region of the user. The face-contacting structure may further contact a portion of a nasal region of the user. In this regard, the face-contacting structure may overlap a nose bridge region or on a nose-ridge region of the user's face. The face-contacting structure may further contact a portion of a zygomatic region of the user's head. The face-contacting structure may further contact a forehead of the user.

In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is configured to surround at least the orbital regions of the user's face. The face-contacting structure may comprise at least one orifice for housing an eye of the user. In this regard, while the eye mask obstructs light to the eyes, the eye mask does not contact the orbital regions and eyes of the user.

In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is configured to surround a supra-orbital region of the user's face. The face-contacting structure may be formed to surround more than the orbital regions of the user's face. The face-contacting structure may further surround an infra-orbital region of the user. The face-contacting structure may further surround a portion of a nasal region of the user. The facecontacting structure may further surround a portion of a zygomatic region of the user's head. The face-contacting structure may further surround a forehead of the user.

In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is sized to contact at least a portion of a frontal region, orbital regions, zygomatic region and nasal bridge of a face of a user.

In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is characterised by a height of about 1 cm to about 15 cm, about 1 cm to about 14 cm, about 1 cm to about

13 cm, about 1 cm to about 12 cm, about 1 cm to about 11 cm, about 1 cm to about

10 cm, about 2 cm to about 10 cm, about 3 cm to about 10 cm, about 4 cm to about

10 cm, about 5 cm to about 10 cm, about 6 cm to about 10 cm, about 7 cm to about

10 cm, or about 8 cm to about 10 cm. The height of the face-contacting structure create a cavity such that the eyes of the user is spaced apart from the eye component.

In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure comprises a recess. The recess may be positioned at a forehead or frontal region of the user when in use. The recess may be sized to extend substantially between orbital regions of the user. The recess may be configured to house a functional module. As discussed herein, the functional module may be an electronic module for sensing, a cooling module, a massage module, or a combination thereof. The face-contacting structure comprising the recess allows for the modularization of the eye mask, in that the user may choose the desired functionality based on their needs. This also allows the functional module to be removed so as to clean the eye mask.

In one form of the present technology, the recess comprises a connector for engaging with a complementary connector on the functional module. For example, the connector and complementary connector may be a hook-and-loop fastener such as Velcro, a snap fit joint, snap fastener such as press stud button, magnetic catch, and/or groove and complementary protrusion.

In one form of the present technology, the eye mask further comprises an insert. The insert is sized to fit into the recess. The insert may be inserted into the recess if a functional module is not selected by the user. The insert may be formed from a material similar to the face-contacting structure. Accordingly, the insert may also comprise a complementary connector for mating with the connector in/on or adjacent to the recess.

In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure comprises a bridge portion or a saddle-shaped region for saddling the nasal region of the user's face. The bridge portion saddles between the left and right orbital sections of the eye component. The bridge portion may be constructed to form a seal in use on a nose bridge region or on a nose-ridge region of the user's face. The bridge portion may be made of a different material (for example, a stiffer material) than the rest of the face-contacting structure to provide stability to the eye mask when used. For example, the bridge portion may be a thermoformed material.

In one form of the present technology, the bridge portion is formed as a single entity. In this regard, the bridge portion is formed by curving the material such that it forms a parabola. In one form of the present technology, the bridge portion is characterised by a height to width ratio of about 1 : 1 to about 5: 1, about 1 : 1 to about 4: 1, about 1 : 1 to about 3: 1, about 1 : 1 to about 2: 1, or about 1.5: 1 to about 2: 1.

In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is contoured to conform to the user's face. For example, the face-contacting structure may be a hyperbolic paraboloid.

In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is substantially similarly sized to, or smaller than the eye component. In this regard, the face-contacting structure is not visible when the eye mask is worn. For example, when the eye component and the face-contacting structure together form a loop or a band, the facecontacting structure may not be visible when the eye mask is worn.

In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is larger than the eye component. The face-contacting structure may form a border surrounding the eye component. Further, portions of the face-contacting structure may be visible when the eye mask is worn. For example, when the eye component comprises left and right orbital sections, a bridge portion of the face-contacting structure may be exposed and visible when the eye mask is worn. In certain forms of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is constructed from a biocompatible material, e.g. silicone rubber. The face-contacting structure may be constructed from a soft, flexible, resilient material such as silicone. The facecontacting structure may be constructed from a breathable foam. The foam may have a thickness of about 1 cm to about 10 cm. The face-contacting structure may have a gradient of decreasing thickness towards an orifice configured to house an eye of the user in order to improve the breathability of the eye mask. The face-contacting structure may further be perforated to increase the breathability of the eye mask.

In other forms of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is constructed from a perforated, light blocking fabric material or composite material. The facecontacting structure may be made breathable, so as to provide comfort to the user. The face-contacting structure may be formed from a material selected from perforated textile, breathable foam and/or fiber. Fabrics that are naturally thick and dense may also be used, such as velvet, heavy cotton, or woven jacquard. These fabrics have a tighter weave or a heavier weight, which helps to minimise the amount of light that can penetrate the material. Alternatively, a fabric composite material may be used. The composite material may be a laminated material.

In some forms of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is formed from an elastic fabric material. For example, polyester, cotton, spandex, or nylon may be used, which may be further laminated with another fabric to increase it light blocking property.

In one form of the present technology, the face-contacting structure is constructed from a composite material. The composite material may comprise an external fabric (or fabric composite) layer surrounding an inner foam. The fabric layer may be thermoformed with the foam. For example, the fabric may be laminated to one or all sides of foam and placed in a 2-piece mold. Heat and pressure are then applied, which permanently molds the laminate into a semi-rigid product. The foam may be a memory foam, high density foam, low density foam, or a combination thereof. The foam may be selected from silicone, polyester, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyurethane, nylon, thermoplastic elastomer, polycarbonate-acrylonitrile butadiene sytene (PC-ABS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), latex, or a combination thereof. For example, memory foam may be used, which comprises polyurethane with chemicals that increase its viscosity and density. It is often referred to as "viscoelastic" polyurethane foam, or low-resilience polyurethane foam (LRPu).

The foam may have a cell structure that reacts to body heat and weight, helping relieve pressure points, preventing pressure sores, and the like. The density and layer thickness of the foam may provide a different feel to the user. A high-density foam may have better compression ratings over the life of the eye mask. A lower-density one will generally have slightly shorter life due to the compression that takes place after repeated use. Cell structures can vary from very open to almost closed cell. The open cell foam structure includes a plurality of interconnected cells, wherein the windows between the adjacent cells are broken and/or removed. In contrast, a closed cell foam has substantially no interconnected cells and the windows between the adjacent cells are substantially intact. The tighter the cell structure, the less airflow through the foam. Breathable foam will have a more open cell structure, allowing higher airflow, better recovery, and lower odour retention.

In one form of the present technology, the foam comprises an open cellular structure. The cellular structure may be about 10 cells to about 40 cells per inch, about 15 cells to about 40 cells per inch, about 20 cells to about 40 cells per inch, about 25 cells to about 40 cells per inch, or about 30 cells to about 40 cells per inch.

In one form of the present technology, the foam is characterised by a hardness of about 35 pounds-force to about 100 pounds-force, about 35 pounds-force to about 90 pounds- force, about 35 pounds-force to about 80 pounds-force, about 35 pounds-force to about 70 pounds-force, about 35 pounds-force to about 60 pounds-force, or about 35 pounds- force to about 50 pounds-force.

In one form of the present technology, the foam is characterised by a density of about 1.2 pounds per cubic foot to about 2.0 pounds per cubic foot, about 1.2 pounds per cubic foot to about 1.8 pounds per cubic foot, or about 1.2 pounds per cubic foot to about 1.6 pounds per cubic foot.

In one form of the present technology, the composite material comprises at least one air pocket. The air pocket may be between the external fabric and the inner foam. This may be formed by, for example, laminating a side of the foam to the fabric and providing an excess of fabric to obtain a loose fit around the foam when thermoforming. It was found that the air pocket provides flexibility during use, in that the eye mask is able to further conform to an individual's facial contours without excessive pressure. The air pocket also increases the surface area of contact of the external fabric with the user's face, thus providing better light blocking and stability during use.

In one form of the present technology, the composite material is characterised by a cross-sectional area, wherein the air pocket is about 1% to about 30%. In other forms of the present technology, the cross-sectional area of the air pocket relative to the composite material is about 5% to about 30%, about 10% to about 30%, about 12% to about 30%, about 14% to about 30%, or about 15% to about 30%.

Positioning and Stabilising Structure

The eye mask may comprise a positioning and stabilizing structure for retaining the eye mask on the user's head. The positioning and stabilising structure may be removable from the eye mask. The positioning and stabilizing structure may be responsible for providing forces to counter gravitational forces of the eye component and/or facecontacting structure. In the past such structures have comprised rigid structures that are typically applied to the head under tension to maintain the eye mask in its operational position. Such systems have been prone to exert a clamping pressure on the user's face which can result in user discomfort at localised stress points. Also, previous eye masks may be difficult to adjust to allow wide application to different head sizes. Further, known eye masks may be heavy and difficult to clean, which further limits the comfort and useability.

The face-contacting structure of the eye mask of the present technology may be held in a contact position in use by the positioning and stabilising structure.

In one form the positioning and stabilising structure provides a retention force at least sufficient to hold the eye mask in contact with the user's face.

In one form the positioning and stabilising structure provides a retention force to overcome the effect of the gravitational force on the eye mask. In one form the positioning and stabilising structure provides a retention force as a safety margin to overcome the potential effect of disrupting forces on the eye mask, such as from accidental interference with the eye mask. The positioning and stabilising structure thus provides a retention force just sufficient to hold the eye mask in place on the user's head, but do not overly apply a clamping pressure such that the user feels discomfort.

In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilising structure is provided that is configured in a manner consistent with being worn by a user while sleeping. In one example the positioning and stabilising structure has a low profile, or low cross- sectional thickness, to reduce the perceived or actual bulk of the apparatus. In one example, the positioning and stabilising structure comprises at least one strap having a circular, ovoid or rectangular cross-section. In one example the positioning and stabilising structure comprises at least one flat strap.

In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure is configured so as not to be too large and bulky to prevent the user from lying in a supine sleeping position with a back region of the user's head on a pillow.

In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure is configured so as not to be too large and bulky to prevent the user from lying in a side sleeping position with a side region of the user's head on a pillow.

In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilising structure is provided with a decoupling portion located between an anterior portion of the positioning and stabilising structure, and a posterior portion of the positioning and stabilising structure. The decoupling portion does not resist compression and may be, e.g. a flexible or floppy strap. The decoupling portion is constructed and arranged so that when the user lies with their head on a pillow, the presence of the decoupling portion prevents a force on the posterior portion from being transmitted along the positioning and stabilising structure and disrupting the seal.

In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure has a width substantially similar to the eye component. In other forms of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure has a width smaller than a width of the eye component.

For example, the positioning and stabilising structure may have a width of about 10 mm to about 100 mm, about 10 mm to about 90 mm, about 10 mm to about 80 mm, about 10 mm to about 70 mm, about 10 mm to about 60 mm, about 10 mm to about 50 mm, about 10 mm to about 40 mm, about 10 mm to about 35 mm, about 10 mm to about 30 mm, or about 20 mm to about 30 mm. In some forms, the width is about 20 mm or about 25 mm. This width was found to provide some stiffness to the positioning and stabilising structure so as to support the eye component adjacent to the orbital region of the user's face.

For example, the positioning and stabilising structure may have a length of about 100 mm to about 800 mm, about 100 mm to about 750 mm, about 100 mm to about 700 mm, about 100 mm to about 650 mm, about 100 mm to about 600 mm, about 100 mm to about 550 mm, about 100 mm to about 500 mm, about 100 mm to about 450 mm, or about 100 mm to about 400 mm. In some forms, the length is about 500 mm to about 550 mm.

The positioning and stabilising structure may have a cross sectional thickness of about 1 mm to about 100 mm. For example, the positioning and stabilising structure may have a cross sectional thickness of about 1 mm to about 90 mm, about 1 mm to about 80 mm, about 1 mm to about 70 mm, about 1 mm to about 60 mm, about 1 mm to about 50 mm, about 1 mm to about 40 mm, about 1 mm to about 30 mm, about 1 mm to about 20 mm, or about 1 mm to about 10 mm. In some forms, the cross sectional thickness is about 1 mm to about 5 mm.

The positioning and stabilising structure is attached to the eye component, and provides a resilient force such that the face-contacting structure is pressured against the user's face. For example, the positioning and stabilising structure may be two straps each attached to opposed ends of the eye component. Alternatively, the positioning and stabilising structure may form a loop or band circumferentially positionable on a user's head such that a portion of the loop or band thereof is contiguous with the eye component and/or face-contacting structure.

In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure is formed as a flexible headband circumferentially positionable on a user's head. The eye component may be attached to at least a portion of the band along its length, or at least to a face facing portion of the band. Alternatively, the eye component may be circumferentially attached to the band along its whole length or is a portion of the circumferential band. In this regard, the positioning and stabilising structure is contiguous with the eye component such that the eye mask may be worn as a headband on a user's head when not in use.

The positioning and stabilising structure may overlay at least an otobasion superior region of the user's head in use. The positioning and stabilising structure may be configured to overlay an otobasion superior region and otobasion inferior region of the user's head in use. In this regard, the ears of the user may be covered. This may reduce noise to the user.

In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilising structure comprises a strap. The eye component may be attached to the positioning and stabilising structure at one of its ends thereof.

The headband and/or strap may be bendable and e.g. non-rigid. The headband and/or strap may be constructed from a laminate of a fabric user-contacting layer, a foam inner layer and a fabric outer layer. In one form, the foam is porous to allow moisture, (e.g., sweat), to pass through the headband and/or strap. Alternatively or in addition, the headband and/or strap may comprise fiberfill (for example, polyester fiberfill), nonwoven padding, foam padding, high density upholstery foam, compressed polyester, medium density polyurethane antimicrobial foam, high density polyurethane foam, dry fast open cell foam, or a combination thereof. Consequently, the headband and/or strap is not too large and bulky to prevent the user from lying in the side sleeping position. In addition, the headband and/or strap is extensible and soft.

In one form, the fabric outer layer comprises loop material to engage with a hook material portion. For example, the loop material or hook material may be positioned at an end of a strap, such that the strap may pass through a connector and loop back for the loop material to engage with the hook material. In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure comprises a strap that is extensible, e.g. resiliently extensible. For example the strap may be configured in use to be in tension. The positioning and stabilising structure may comprise adjustable means for extending the strap. In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure comprises a left strap, a right strap and a connector. The connector may be a swivel and/or a buckle. The swivel and/or buckle may be positioned behind the user's ear when in use.

In one form of the present technology, one or more rigidizers may be provided to selectively alter the rigidity of the positioning and stabilising structure. These may be attached to an external surface of the fabric, or inserted within the fabric layers. For example, the rigidizer may be laminated to or embedded between fabric layers. Thermoset yarns may be used to provide selective rigidification. The textile may also be rigidized at other parts of the positioning and stabilising structure, such as along side sections that will contact the user's face in use, for example using a coating, a laminate, a rigidized thread sewn into the textile, or any similar means.

The rigidizers may be semi-rigid. In other words, the rigidizers may be more rigid than the textile material used to form the positioning and stabilising structure, but not completely rigid. In this way, they are capable of providing structure to the positioning and stabilising structure, but are flexible so that they are capable of being bent. A user and/or medical professional may adjust or bend the rigidizers in order to provide tailored support for an individual user. The rigidizers also may begin semi-rigid (in other words, the rigidizers may be semi-rigid at the beginning or initially), and may become rigid after a period of time. For example, a medical professional may adjust the shape of the rigidizers so that the positioning and stabilising structure is suited for an individual user's face. Then the rigidizers may be treated (e.g., heat treated) so that they are set in their shape. In other words, the rigidity of the rigidizers is capable of changing. Consequently, the rigidity also changes and may be selectively increased to provide tailored support for the individual user (or user).

In some forms of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure is bifurcated into a first section and a second section. The positioning and stabilising structure may be bifurcated at opposed ends thereof, or at a position adjacent to a temporal region of a user's head in use. The first and second bifurcated sections may jointly cradle a crown of the user's head in use. The first section may be movable relative to the second section. Alternatively, the first section and the second section is bifurcated at a fixed angle. The angle may be about 60° to about 120°.

In some forms of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure is bifurcated at a middle section thereof. The bifurcation into the first section and second section may be about 35% to about 60% relative to a length of positioning and stabilising structure. For example, if the length of the positioning and stabilising structure is about 500 mm to about 550 mm, the bifurcated section (comprising the first section and second section) may have a length of about 175 mm to about 330 mm. In other forms, the bifurcated section is about 35% to about 55%, about 35% to about 50%, about 35% to about 45%, or about 40% to about 45%.

When the positioning and stabilising structure is formed as a headband, the positioning and stabilising structure may be fabric material or composite material. The positioning and stabilising structure may be made breathable, so as to provide comfort to the user.

In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure is configured to loop over the user's ears. The positioning and stabilising structure may have a curved morphology, such that it arcs over the otobasion superior region of the user's head and a lower occipital region. The positioning and stabilising structure may comprise a rigidiser to maintain the arc.

The positioning and stabilising structure may be formed from a material selected from perforated textile, breathable foam and/or fiber. Alternatively, a fabric composite material may be used. The composite material may be a laminated material.

In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure is an elastic fabric material. For example, polyester, cotton, spandex, or nylon may be used, which may be further laminated with another fabric.

Referring to Figs. 20-31, a positioning and stabilising structure 3330 is shown according to an example of the present technology.

In the illustrated example, the positioning and stabilising structure 3330 includes a pair of straps 3340, 3350 (e.g., each constructed of an elastic textile) which are connected to one another by an adjustment mechanism, e.g., a connector such as buckle 3360, which permits length adjustment, e.g., in addition to the length adjustment provided by the elasticity of the straps 3340, 3350 as described below.

The pair of straps 3340, 3350 may be of substantially similar length. Alternatively, as illustrated, the pair of straps comprises a first, longer strap 3340 and a second, shorter strap 3350, the first strap 3340 being longer than the second strap 3350 in its original length in a neutral, non-stretched state.

Each strap 3340, 3350 may be made of an elastic material and may have elastic properties. In other words, each strap may be elastically stretched to increase the length of the strap, e.g., by a stretching force applied by the user, and upon release of the stretching force, returns or contracts to its original length in a neutral state. Each strap may be made of or comprise any elastomeric material such as elastane, TPE, silicone etc. The material of each strap may also represent a combination of any of the above materials with other materials. Each strap may be a single layer or multilayer strap. Each strap may be woven, knitted, braided, molded, extruded or otherwise formed. Each strap may comprise or may be made of a textile material such as a woven material. Such material may comprise artificial or natural fibers for, on the one hand, providing desired and beneficial surface properties such as tactile properties and skin comfort. On the other hand, the material of each strap may include elastomeric material for providing the desired elastomeric properties. In the illustrated example, each strap is stretchable. This enables the entire length of each strap to be stretched which leads to a comfortable force displacement profile.

The first strap 3340 includes a side strap portion 3342 and a back strap portion 3344. As illustrated, the back strap portion 3344 includes a split region that splits the back strap portion 3344 into two back strap portions (first section 3344a and second section 3344b), i.e., the side strap portion 3342 bifurcates into two back strap portions (first section 3344a and second section 3344b). The second strap 3350 includes a side strap portion 3352.

In the illustrated example, one end of the side strap portion 3352 is non-adjustably connected to the buckle 3360 at an end thereof, and the two back strap portions 3344a, 3344b of back strap portion 3344 are wound or threaded through the buckle 3360 to permit adjustment relative to the buckle 3360.

The positioning and stabilising structure 3330 is rigidised at a certain section, for example, from the eye component up to a position proximal to the user's cheekbone by the inserted rigidiser arms 3302. Each strap 3340, 3350 of the positioning and stabilising structure 3330 may take the form of a hollow ribbon structure to receive a respective one of the rigidiser arms 3302 therein. Each strap may be considered to be threaded over a respective one of the rigidiser arms 3302 when it is slipped onto the respective rigidiser arm 3302 and secured at one end of the respective rigidiser arm 3302 proximal to the eye component.

In the illustrated example, each strap 3340, 3350 has a tube-like configuration as can be taken from the schematic view in FIG. 20A indicating an oval or circular shape, as well as by the exemplary cross-sectional view according to FIG. 20B. However, it will be appreciated that the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may take any other shape such as flat or sheet-like shape, single, multi-layer or laminate construction.

The side strap portions 3342, 3352 of respective straps 3340, 3350 each include a button-hole 3343, 3353, e.g., slit-like configuration. The button-holes 3343, 3353 may be located at the outer surface of respective straps 3340, 3350, i.e., the surface facing away from the user when being worn, and are adapted to receive a respective rigidiser arm 3302 in order to insert the rigidiser arm 3302 into the interior of the tube- or sleevelike strap 3340, 3350 or to remove it therefrom. Alternatively, the button- holes 3343, 3353 may be located at the inner surface of respective straps 3340, 3350. In an example, each side strap portion 3342, 3352 may include a pocketed end adapted to receive an end of the respective rigidiser arm 3302 proximal to the eye component.

In the illustrated, each end of the first strap 3340 includes a reinforcement portion or finger tab 3345, 3347, and the end of the second strap 3350 opposite to the buckle 3360 includes a reinforcement portion or finger tab 3355. In an example, each reinforcement portion or finger tab 3345, 3347, 3355 comprises a different material than the straps 3340, 3350, e.g., TPE material. In an example, each reinforcement portion or finger tab 3345, 3347, 3355 may be overmolded to respective ends of the straps 3340, 3350, however each reinforcement portion or finger tab 3345, 3347, 3355 may be connected to the straps in other suitable manners.

Each reinforcement portion or finger tab 3345, 3347, 3355 provides reinforcement to respective ends of the straps 3340, 3350, e.g. to avoid or mitigate the likelihood of a user tearing or ripping the straps 3340, 3350. Further, the reinforcement portion or finger tabs 3345, 3355 helps provide a visual and tactile indication to the user on how to slip on or remove the straps 3340, 3350 from respective rigidiser arms 3302 and may assist in identifying the location of the button-holes 3343, 3353. Also, the reinforcement portion or finger tab 3347 is provided (e.g., overmolded) to the end of the two back strap portions 3344a, 3344b after the two back strap portions 3344a, 3344b are wound or threaded through the buckle 3360 in order to prevent removal of the strap 3340 from the buckle 3360. Further, the reinforcement portion or finger tab 3347 provides a visual and tactile indication for adjustment of the back strap portion 3344 relative to the buckle 3360.

The side strap portions 3342, 3352 of respective straps 3340, 3350 are adapted to extend along the sides of a user's head when being worn while back strap portion 3344 of strap 3340 is adapted to extend along the back of a user's head.

In order for the positioning and stabilising structure 3330 to be stretched in use, the length of the positioning and stabilising structure 3330 may be less than the average small head circumference of users. For example, the length of the positioning and stabilising structure 3330 (e.g., the length of the positioning and stabilising structure with the back strap portion 3340 fully retracted with respect to the buckle 3360 as shown in FIG. 21) may be less than 600 mm in one example and less than 500 mm in another example. However, positioning and stabilising structure 3330 of different lengths may be provided to users depending on their head circumference which may be gender specific.

In the illustrated example, the straps 3340, 3350 are joined by the buckle 3360 which permits length adjustment in addition to the length adjustment provided by the elasticity of the straps 3340, 3350. As illustrated, the buckle 3360 includes a main body 3362 with a first end portion 3364 and a second end portion 3366. In the illustrated example, the first end portion 3364 is curved or angled upwardly relative to the second end portion 3366. The second end portion 3366 is connected to an end of the strap 3350, e.g., via overmolding. The main body 3362 includes openings for receiving back strap portions 3344a, 3344b, i.e., a first opening 3370 configured to receive both back strap portions 3344a, 3344b and a pair of second openings 3372a, 3372b configured to respective ones of the back strap portions 3344a, 3344b. A cross-bar 3380 delineates the first opening 3370 from the second openings 3372a, 3372b, and cross-bar 3382 delineates opening 3372a from opening 3372b.

As illustrated, the back strap portions 3344a, 3344b are threaded up through the first opening 3370, around the cross-bar 3380, and down through respective ones of the second openings 3372a, 3372b. Each of the second openings 3372a, 3372b includes an angled edge or surface 3375 arranged to resist adjustment in use.

In an example, the buckle 3360 comprises a relatively rigid material, e.g., polypropylene, polyethylene, and may include an overmold, e.g., comprising TPE material. For example, in the exemplary cross-section of the buckle 3360 in FIGS. 27 and 28, the buckle 3360 includes a relatively rigid base 3390, e.g., polypropylene, polyethylene, with a softer overmold 3391, e.g., TPE. In the illustrated example, the overmold 3391 is not provided along the openings 3370, 3372a, 3372b. In an example, one or portions may be polished, e.g., regions surrounding the openings 3370, 3372a, 3372b as shown by the hatched areas in FIG. 26 , e.g., to reduce friction and facilitate gliding or sliding adjustment of the back strap portions 3344a, 3344b relative to the buckle 3360. However, other suitable material are possible.

FIGS. 29-30 are exemplary views showing strap adjustment of the positioning and stabilising structure 3330 according to an example of the present technology. The positioning and stabilising structure 3330 allows for precise adjustment of the tensioning and therefore ensuring better sealing of the cushion assembly 3075, especially after repeated use and/or washing of the positioning and stabilising structure 3330 which may lead to a loss of the strap elasticity. Adequate tensioning by positioning and stabilising structure 3330 may be especially important for the nasal cradle type sealforming structure 3100 of the present technology, e.g., compared to a pillows type sealforming structure where less tension is required for sealing.

The adjustment mechanism (e.g., a buckle 3360) is operable to allow the (effective) length of the elastic straps 3340, 3350 to be adjusted by the user to maintain the required stretch force and fit over time. For example, the elastic straps 3340, 3350 may be joined by the buckle 3360 in a first adjusted position (e.g., with the back strap portion 3340 substantially retracted with respect to the buckle 3360 as shown in FIG. 21) and one or more second adjusted positions (e.g., with the back strap portion 3340 overlapped to a different extent than the first adjusted positon). In each adjusted position, the positioning and stabilising structure 3330 may comprise (1) a neutral or unstretched state in which the positioning and stabilising structure 3330 comprises a neutral or unstretched length (i.e., no stretching force applied to the elastic straps 3340, 3350 to elastically stretch the straps 3340, 3350), and (2) one or more extended or stretched states in which the positioning and stabilising structure 3330 comprises one or more extended or stretched lengths (i.e., stretching force applied to the elastic straps 3340, 3350 to elastically stretch and increase the length of the straps 3340, 3350). In each adjusted position, the material of the straps 3340, 3350 limits the extended or stretched length in the extended position to a certain extent, i.e., the maximum or effective length the positioning and stabilising structure 3330 in each adjusted position. When the elastic strap 3340 is adjusted relative to the buckle 3360 (e.g., from a first adjusted position to a second adjusted position), the neutral or unstretched length of the positioning and stabilising structure 3330 changes, e.g., the length shortens when adjusted from a first adjusted position to a second adjusted position. Such shortened length in the neutral or unstretched state also shortens the extended or stretched lengths, e.g., the maximum or effective length the positioning and stabilising structure 3330 in the second adjusted position is shortened. This arrangement allows adjustment of the maximum or effective stretchable length, e.g., to accommodate loss of strap elasticity so as to maintain a comfortable force displacement profile. Thus, the elasticity of the straps 3340, 3350 provides an adjustment mechanism to permit length adjustment in a given adjusted position, and the buckle 3360 provides an additional adjustment mechanism to permit length adjustment in addition to the extent of length adjustment provide by the elasticity of the straps 3340, 3350.

As shown in FIG. 29, the buckle 3360 is in a locked position when the buckle extends generally parallel to the back strap portions 3344a, 3344b to resist unintentional adjustment due to friction between the back strap portions 3344a, 3344b, respective free ends of the back strap portions 3344a, 3344b, and the angled edge or surface 3375 in respective second openings 3372a, 3372b. In this position, the first end portion is curved away from the user. As shown in FIG. 30, the buckle 3360 can be lifted or pivoted to an unlocked position so that the buckle extends transverse to the back strap portions 3344a, 3344b to allow adjustment due to reduced friction between the back strap portions 3344a, 3344b, respective free ends of the back strap portions 3344a, 3344b, and the angled edge or surface 3375 in respective second openings 3372a, 3372b. That is, the buckle 3360 in the unlocked position may be angled to allow for the back strap portions 3344a, 3344b to glide easily relative to the buckle 3360 for length adjustment. This arrangement is achieved by multiple forward and backwards bends of the back strap portions 3344a, 3344b wrapping around the cross-bar 3380 within the buckle 3360, e.g., Capstan effect working principle.

Such arrangement provides a simple, easy-to-use, buckle adjustment mechanism for the user, especially when the user interface is donned by the user. In an example, such adjustment arrangement may be performed by one hand and may include one-step adjustment, e.g., simply pull the free end of the back strap portions 3344a, 3344b (e.g., via reinforcement portion or finger tab 3347) relative to the buckle 3360 to tighten and simply pivot and pull the buckle 3360 relative to the back strap portions 3344a, 3344b to loosen.

FIGS. 31A and 31B are various views showing the fitting, adjusting, and removing of the user interface 3000 according to an example of the present technology.

In use, the user begins fitting the eye mask by holding the eye mask away from the user's eyes ensuring that the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 is curving or oriented upwards. This facilitates orientation and engagement of the face-contacting structure with respect to the user's face and facilitates orientation and engagement of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 over the top of the user's head.

The user then places the face-contacting structure adjacent to the orbital regions and ensuring that it sits comfortably against the user's face. The user beginning to don the positioning and stabilising structure 3300, i.e., by pulling a lower one of the back strap portions 3344a with one hand while holding the eye component with the other hand to stretch the positioning and stabilising structure 3330 over the user's head.

The positioning and stabilising structure 3330 stretched around the back of the user's head to hold the eye mask against the user's eyes, e.g., with an upper one of the back strap portions 3344b sitting comfortably on top of the user's head. One of the split back strap portions 3344b is positioned superior to the user's occipital lobe while the other of the split back strap portions 3344a is positioned inferior to the user's occipital lobe, e.g., to cup the back of the user's head for support and stability. However, it should be appreciated that the back strap portions 3344a, 3344b may be positioned in different positions along the back of the user's head, e.g., to adjust tension or position for user preference and/or comfort.

If additional adjustment of the positioning and stabilising structure 3330 may be required, adjustment may be conducted via the buckle 3360 as described above. For example, the positioning and stabilising structure 3330 may be tightened by pulling the free end of the back strap portions 3344a, 3344b (e.g., via reinforcement portion or finger tab 3347) away from the buckle 3360 as shown in FIG. 31A. The positioning and stabilising structure 3330 may be loosened by gripping the strap portions on either side of the buckle 3360 and pulling as shown in FIG. 31B, or by pulling the buckle 3360 relative to the strap portions.

It should be appreciated that the positioning and stabilising structure 3330 may be assembled to the eye component so that the buckle 3360 can be located on either the right-hand side of the user's head or the left-hand side of the user's head, e.g., depending on user preference to facilitate adjustment while being worn. For example, it may be preferable for the buckle 3360 to be located on the right-hand side of the user's head for a right-handed user to facilitate right-handed adjustment of the buckle 3360 by the user.

The eye mask may be removed by pulling the eye component along with the back strap portions 3344a, 3344b up and over the user's head.

Materials

Various materials may be used to provide a soft touch feel and comfort to the user. Together, a unitary one-piece structure is formed, comprising a number of different textile structures used alternatively or in combination (e.g., a knit structure, a woven structure, different types of knit structures, different types of woven structures). The textile structures may vary across various sections and/or areas of the eye mask. The various textile structures may impart the eye mask with variations in physical properties or characteristics - e.g., cushioning ability, thickness, stretch, stretch-resistance, directional stretch, certain elongation ranges, elasticity, elastic recovery, rigidity, stiffness, porosity, breathability, stability, layering - across the sections and/or areas of the eye mask. That is, the eye mask (or portions thereof) may have a composite textile structure (i.e., a textile formation pattern across the eye mask (or portions thereof)) that includes different textile structures.

Additionally, textile composition (e.g., material composition, yarn count) may vary across the eye mask to customize physical properties and/or characteristics of the eye mask, e.g., stretch, rigidity, stiffness, elasticity, elastic recovery, porosity, cushioning level, thickness, weight, and/or bulk, etc.

For example, elastomeric nonwoven may provide soft, airtight surface which may be incorporated as a material for forming the positioning and stabilising structure. The elastomeric nonwoven may further be used as a cushion material on the positioning and stabilising structure. Further, the elastomeric nonwoven may be bonded to a variety of materials which is commonly used for the user interface. Elastomeric nonwoven provides better elastic recovery to the positioning and stabilising structure, thus providing lower deformation and longer usage. The nonwoven material is soft and flexible. The material is soft in the sense that it may give way under pressure. The material is flexible in the sense that it is capable of being flexed or bent without breaking. The nonwoven material may be formed as a layer on a user-facing side, which is an outside surface which may be in contact with the user's skin when in use. The nonwoven material may be used as is without any additional support provided by adding other more resilient materials, or may be configured to provide sufficient structural support for it to be used alone. Alternatively, the nonwoven material may be bonded to a flexible and/or resilient material for further structural support.

Elastomeric nonwoven refers to an elastomer which is formed as a fabric-like material. An elastomer is a polymer that displays rubber-like elasticity. It has both viscosity and elasticity properties, weak intermolecular forces and low Young's modulus. A nonwoven fabric is a fabric-like material made from staple fiber (short) and long fibers (continuous long), bonded together by entangling fibers via chemical, mechanical or solvent treatment. Nonwoven fabric is not woven nor knitted. The elastomeric polymer comprises hard segments and soft segments. The hard segments provide strength and rigidity while the soft segments provide elasticity but may result in a tackiness of the fabric. A balance of hard and soft segments is required to maximise the desirable properties of both the hard and soft segments.

The elastomeric nonwoven may be melt-blown. Melt-blown nonwovens are produced by extruding melted polymer fibers through a spin net or die consisting of up to 40 holes per inch to form long thin fibers which are stretched and cooled by passing hot air over the fibers as they fall from the die. The resultant web is collected and formed as a fabriclike material. The fibers from a melt-blown process may be made extremely fine. The melt-blown fibers may also be combined with other types of elastomeric nonwoven such as staple, spunbond and/or flashspun to form a fabric-like material with different properties.

In one form of the present technology, the elastomeric nonwoven layer is formed from a thermoplastic elastomer. In one form of the present technology, the elastomeric nonwoven layer is selected from polyolefin based elastomer, co-polyester elastomer, thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer, styrenic block copolymer, or a combination thereof. The elastomeric nonwoven layer may have hard:soft segment ratio of 1:0.1 to about 1 : 10.

In one form of the present technology, the elastomeric nonwoven is selected from polyether block amide (Pebax), thermoplastic elastomer ether ester (Hytrel), thermoplastic polyurethane (Elastolan), styrenic rubber block co-polymer (Kraton), or a combination thereof. In one form of the present technology, the elastomeric nonwoven is selected from polyether block amide (Pebax), thermoplastic elastomer ether ester (Hytrel), or a combination thereof. For example, Pebax comprises nylon 11 as the hard segment while Hytrel comprises polybutylene terephthalate as the hard segment.

In one form of the present technology, the nonwoven is calendered. Calendering of fabric is a finishing process used to smooth, coat, or thin a material. The fabric is passed between rollers at high temperature and pressures. This process flattens circular fibers on the surface and decrease inter-fiber distance and pore size of the fabric. This polishes the surface of the fabric and makes the fabric smoother and more lustrous. In one form of the present technology, the nonwoven is bonded to the flexible and/or resilient material. The flexible and/or resilient material may be a foam. The flexible and/or resilient material may be selected from silicone, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyurethane, nylon, thermoplastic elastomer, polycarbonate-acrylonitrile butadiene sytene (PC-ABS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or a combination thereof. The strength of the bond may be measured using ASTM S1876-08. In one form of the present technology, the nonwoven is ultrasonically bonded to the flexible material. Alternatively, the nonwoven may be bonded to the flexible material via adhesive, lamination, thermal sealing, mechanical bonding, chemical bonding and/or welding.

Other types of fabric may also be used. For example, a knit fabric may be used, such as a cotton knit. A woven fabric may also be used. The difference between woven fabric and knit fabric is the yarn that they are composed of. Knit fabric is made of a single yarn, looped continuously to provide a braided pattern. Based on the inter looping direction, knitted fabrics may be classified as warp knitted fabric or weft knitted fabric. Knit fabric stretches easily along its width with a slightly less stretch along its length. A woven fabric is composed of multiple yarns wound at right angles to one another such that they create a criss-cross pattern. Woven fabric stretches along its length, but is less stretchable along its width. Thus, in general, knitted fabric are more flexible than woven fabric.

The knitted fabric or woven fabric may be made from a yarn selected from natural and/or synthetic fibers. Examples of such fibers include, but is not limited to, cotton, wool, enset, jute, viscose, polyester, and spandex.

In one form of the present technology, the knitted fabric is a weft knitted fabric. In one form of the present technology, the knitted fabric is a warp knitted fabric.

The fabrics may be combined using techniques such as lamination, adhesive, thermal sealing, mechanical bonding, chemical bonding and/or welding.

In one form of the present technology, at least two fabrics are connected together. The fabrics may be continuously joined to each other. In this regard, one fabric transit seamlessly to another. Alternatively, the fabrics may be connected together via a seam. stitch and/or adhesive. This allows different types of fabric to be used to form the body, to achieve a variety of functionalities.

In one form of the present technology, the eye mask is formed from a spacer fabric. Spacer fabric contains a combination of two independent textile sheets interconnected with spacer yarns (forming a spacer layer) so that the fabric has a 3D appearance. The spacer fabric may comprise two knitted fabrics separated by spacer yarns. Because of the spacer yarns, a defined distance may be established between the textile sheets. The textile sheets may be constructed similarly or differently to achieve a multitude of functionalities. The spacer layer may comprise monofilaments and/or multifilaments. Monofilament refers to a single solid filament. Multifilament refers to a yarn which has multiple filament fibers twisted together. While spacer fabric having monofilaments may be stiffer, can resist high pressure and may allow for directed transport of fluid and heat, spacer fabric having multifilaments allows for more movement and flexibility. Accordingly, a combination of monofilaments and multifilaments may be used. The filaments may be formed from a material selected from polyester, nylon and/or recycled yarn. Other materials include, but is not limited to, cotton, viscose, rayon, acrylic, elastane, blended yarn comprising polyester and cotton/viscose, cotton/acrylic, polyacrylic in different proportions or combinations.

In one form of the present technology, the spacer fabric is characterised by a thickness of about 2 mm to about 10 mm.

Other types of fabric may be used, such as flat, warp, large and small-drum circular knitting, spacer mesh, and quilt with filler. Any material use to fabricate fabric may be used. For example, the material may be selected from virgin and/or recycled polyester, polypropylene, polyamide, various spandex or stretch materials, poly (lactic acid), wool, cotton, bamboo, jute, or a combination thereof. In one form of the present technology, the material is an elastic material.

In addition to fabric materials, other materials such as fabric fiberfill (for example, polyester fiberfill), non-woven padding, foam padding, high density upholstery foam, compressed polyester, medium density polyurethane antimicrobial foam, high density polyurethane foam, dry fast open cell foam, or a combination thereof may also be used to provide support and comfort to the user. Noise Reduction Component

The eye mask may comprise a noise reduction component. The noise reduction component may be located at a side of the eye component of the eye mask, adjacent to an ear of the user. A pair of noise reduction components may be located at opposed sides of the eye mask, and be configured to fit over the respective ears of the user (e.g., an earphone). In one form of the present technology, part of the noise reduction component may also, or alternatively, fit at least partially inside the ear of a user (e.g., an earbud).

The pair of noise reduction components may be connected by a strap. The noise reduction components may be positioned at respective ends of the strap. The strap at least partially loops around the head of the user. It will be appreciated that in these embodiments, the noise reduction component may be detachable from the eye mask. For example, the noise reduction component may be attachable and removable via tabs. This facilitates the modular coupling of the noise reduction component to the eye component, allowing the eye mask to be washed while the electronic components within the noise reduction component are removed before washing. Alternatively, the noise reduction component may be integrated with the eye component. For example, the noise reduction component may be formed on the eye component such that it is contiguous with the eye component. The noise reduction component and the eye component may further be formed form a single material or composite material. Alternatively, the noise reduction component may be integrated with the positioning and stabilizing structure. As another example, the eye component may comprise a pair of lobe structures that are integral with, and/or extend from, the eye component to house the noise reduction component. The eye component may comprise inner and/or outer layers of textile material between which the noise reduction component is sandwiched.

In one form of the present technology, each lobe structure housing the respective noise reduction component may be larger (e.g., wider) than the eye component. This may create a visual differentiation in order to assist the user with donning the eye mask. Additionally, the larger size of the noise reduction component may allow the lobe structure to fit around the user's ear. Each noise reduction component may comprise a laminated structure that comprises at least one sound reflecting layer and at least one sound absorbing layer. At least one sound absorbing layer is closer to the ear of the user (when worn) than the at least one sound reflecting layer.

In one form of the present technology, at least a portion of the eye component may be constructed from a different material than the noise reduction component. For example, the laminate structure may only be present in the noise reduction component and may not be included in the remained of the eye component. Similarly, the eye component may include an elastic material to assist with stretching to different sized heads. The elastic material may not be present in the noise reduction component.

In one form of the present technology, the noise reducing material is present in the noise reduction component and the eye component. In this regard, the laminate material extends from one noise reduction component, to the eye component and towards the other noise reduction component as an integral material.

In one form of the present technology, the noise reduction component has an outer sound-reflecting layer, and an inner sound-absorbing layer. The sound-absorbing layer may be formed from a foam material such as a PE closed cell foam sheet, for example. The sound absorbing layer may be attached to an annular cushion, that may be formed from memory foam in some examples, and that is shaped to substantially encircle the user's ear (e.g., extend around the helix and the lobule) when the eye mask is worn.

The sound-reflecting layer acts to at least partially reflect sound waves from external noise sources. As some sound will in most cases still be transmitted through the soundreflecting layer, the sound-absorbing layer acts to at least partially absorb sound that is transmitted through the sound-reflecting layer, while also absorbing sound that is reflected from the surface of the user's ear (e.g., the scapha, the anti-helix, the concha, etc.) following transmission, thus reducing reverberation.

The sound-absorbing layer is of approximately the same two-dimensional shape as the sound-reflecting layer. In another example, the sound-reflecting layer may extend beyond the sound-absorbing layer to wrap over the user's ear (e.g., around the user's helix and the lobule), thus providing greater reflective surface area to further reduce transmission. In these examples, the sound-reflecting layer and the sound-absorbing layer can be laminated to each other.

Additionally, the sound absorbing layer may be flexible and/or deformable. In some forms, tension in the straps when the user wears the eye mask may cause the sound absorbing layer and/or the sound reflecting layer to deform. This may allow the sound absorbing layer to be positioned at least partially within the ear (e.g., proximate to the concha) while in use. Alternatively, the sound absorbing layer may partially extend into the user's ear without needing to deform.

In one form of the present technology, the sound absorbing layer can comprise extensions or flaps configured to engage corresponding with at least the pinna of the ear. As would be made clear from the discussion below, the sound-absorbing layer can further comprise a protrusion that sits at least partially within the ear. The protrusion can be in the form of a center protrusion on a user facing surface of the noise reduction component. The center protrusion is configured such that the ear encircles the center padding. The center protrusion is configured to extend into a cavity formed by the ear (e.g., within the concha). The center protrusion is sized slightly smaller than the ear cavity so as to fit snuggly within the ear.

The sound absorbing layer can be bonded with an adhesive (such as glue) and/or thermally bonded to the sound reflective layer in a laminating process. The protrusion can be formed by moulding or thermal shaping. Alternatively or in addition, the protrusion may be attached as a separate piece via an adhesive or bonding processes (e.g., thermal, or ultrasonic).

In one form of the present technology, a noise reduction component does not have an annular cushion. Instead, a cushion that is shaped to fit inside the user's ear is provided. This provides sound absorption functionality that is additional to that provided by the sound-absorbing layer. The cushion can contact (e.g., directly contact) the sound absorbing layer. For example, the cushion and sound absorbing layer can be stacked relative to each other. The cushion and the sound absorbing layer can frictiona I ly engage each other. In one form of the present technology, the cushion can be removable for washing if required. Alternatively, the cushion and sound-absorbing layer can be laminated to each other (via glue lamination or with thermal bonding) such that it fits inside the user's ear as a single entity or unitary body.

In one form of the present technology, the sound absorbing layer may be positioned outside of the user's ear (e.g., in order to cup the user's ear). The cushion and soundabsorbing layer can protrude from the sound absorbing layer and extend into a cavity of the ear. The cushion may not need to deform in order to fit within the user's ear.

In one form of the present technology, the sound-absorbing layer is bonded thermally or with an adhesive (e.g., glue) to the sound reflective layer in a laminating process.

In one form of the present technology, the noise reduction component includes the annular cushion. The cushion may have a non-circular cross-section so as to provide a tighter fit of the noise reduction component over the ear (e.g., around the helix and the lobule).

In one form of the present technology, the sound reflecting layer is an aluminised PET sheet, TPU Film, Polypropylene (PP) non-woven material, Polyester non-woven material, or a non-woven material comprising natural fibres and/or synthetic fibres.

In one form of the present technology, the sound absorbing layer is constructed from a foam material such as a PE closed cell foam sheet, Fabric-foam-TPU-PU foam laminate, UBL foam laminate, or EVA foam sheet layer. In some forms of the present technology, the sound absorbing layer is a polymer film; a metallised polymer film; a metallised fabric; and/or a non-woven material.

A non-woven layer may be sandwiched between the sound reflecting layer and the sound absorbing layer. The non-woven layer may comprise one or more different types of non-woven material to form a multi-layer non-woven material. The one or more different types of non-woven material may include synthetic fibres such as polyester fibres. Various methods may be used to manufacture the non-woven material. For instance, the multi-layered non-woven material may be manufactured by airlaid or spunbond process, or a Spunbond-Meltblown-Spunbond (SMS) process. The non-woven material may comprise fine fibres and/or fibres with high surface area. Advantageously, the non-woven material is capable of effectively reflecting and/or absorbing sound. Fibres with high surface area may include engineered fibres having various cross- sectional geometry, such as trilobal or multilobal. Preferably, the non-woven material may comprise fine fibres which leads to a higher surface area and therefore better sound reflection and sound absorption.

In one form of the present technology, a fabric layer contacts the user's ear and/or may extend beyond the noise-reduction component. The fabric layer may be unbroken loop (UBL) fabric. The fabric layer may be designed to have a soft feel to the user's skin for optimal comfort.

In one form of the present technology, a cushioning layer forms a rim around a periphery of the noise-reduction component. The rim may be formed from memory foam, for example. The material of the cushioning layer may contact the user's auriculotemporal sulcus and postauricular sulcus to provide comfort on sensitive portions of the user's ear.

The noise reduction component may each be capable of effectively blocking sound having a frequency of 500 Hz or less, and an intensity of 25 dB or higher.

In one form of the present technology, the noise reduction component comprises a speaker. The speaker may provide white noise and/or music to aid a user's sleep. The speaker may be high fidelity. A noise cancelling component may also be incorporated, and may provide Al-assisted smart sound blocking or active noise-cancellation electronics while ensuring essential sounds such as a baby's cry can still pass through. The noise-cancellation component may comprise active noise-cancellation electronics. In one form, the noise-cancellation and speaker functions may be decoupled. For example, the noise cancelling component may be always active while the eye mask is worn, but the speaker may be able to be coupled to an external device, such as a baby monitor, to enable sound from the external device to still reach the user. The coupling may be via any suitable known means, such as Bluetooth, WiFi, Zigbee, etc.

Sensor Module

In one form of the present technology, the eye mask may have one or more sensors and/or actuators provided therein, for measurement of the user's physiological and sleep data. One or more sensors and one or more actuators may respectively be embedded within the eye mask, or may be attached to internal and/or external surfaces of the eye mask. The sensor may be provided as a functional module attachable to the eye mask.

Sensors embedded in the eye mask can help collect sleep-related data and physiological indicators such as vital data; this can be used to determine sleep quality, and may also be used to control one or more integrated actuators or external devices to assist in improving sleep quality. The physiological and sleep data may be communicated (e.g., via wireless communication) to external computing devices such as a smartphone of the user, and/or a monitoring server that is operated by or accessible to a clinician or other healthcare provider.

The sensor module may comprise a plurality of electronic modules (actuators and/or sensors). A processor module may also be integrated in the eye mask. The processor module may have an integrated transceiver for transmitting data to, and receiving data from, external computing devices. An electrical energy storage device such as a battery may also be included to power the various electronic components (sensors/actuators and processor module) of the eye mask. In some forms of the present technology, other electrical energy storage devices such as supercapacitors may be used.

The sensors and associated electronics may be integrated at least partly between fabric layers of the positioning and stabilising structure or eye component. For example, various sensor/actuator modules and/or associated circuitry, the processor module, and the battery module may lie between an inner, skin-contacting, fabric layer, and an outer fabric layer. Alternatively, the eye component or positioning and stabilising structure may comprise a pocket for housing the sensor module.

The sensor and/or actuator modules integrated in the eye mask may be in electrical communication with processor and battery via a bus, for example. The bus may be provided between two insulating layers that provide electrical insulation and that also prevent moisture ingress, for example from perspiration absorbed by inner fabric layer. The insulating layers may be non-conductive polymer or elastomer films, for example, though it will be appreciated that other electrically insulating materials may also be used. In one form of the present technology, a thermally insulating layer may be provided between at least some of the electronic components of the positioning and stabilising structure, noting that those components will tend to generate heat during use. Accordingly, a thermally insulating layer helps to improve user comfort. For example, layer that is closest to the user-contacting inner layer may be thermally insulating as well as electrically insulating, or an additional thermally insulating layer may be interposed between electrically insulating layer and inner layer. In some examples, inner layer may itself be thermally insulating.

In one form of the present technology, the sensor and/or actuator modules and their associated circuitry, and other modules including the processor and battery, may be received within retaining structures that are affixed to insulating layer and/or inner fabric layer. Each retaining structure is in electrical communication with a bus, for example, and may contain electrical contacts to electrically connect circuitry of (or associated with) the sensor modules to the bus, and thus also to the battery and processor. In some examples, communication between functional modules and the bus may be via conductive ink traces, and/or conductive threads that are woven into or otherwise integrated with fabric layers. In some embodiments, electrical contacts and/or circuit traces may be contained only in an outer layer, so as not to be affected by perspiration from the user.

In one form of the present technology, the sensor module comprises a sensor-retaining structure. Modules may be detachable from the sensor-retaining structure, such that particular modules may be switched out for other modules with different functionality, or to replace modules that have ceased to function or are at the end of their lifecycle. For example, the functional modules (and/or the circuitry modules to which they are electrically coupled, if applicable) may releasably attach to the sensor-retaining structures. To this end, an external surface of a functional module may form a friction fit with an internal surface of a wall of a sensor-retaining structure, or may form a snap fit, such as an annular snap fit or cantilever snap fit, with the wall or other internal or external part of the sensor-retaining structure. In some embodiments, a nonmechanical coupling, such as magnetic coupling, may be used to retain the functional modules in respective retaining structures. In one form of the present technology, the eye mask comprises pockets into which functional modules (or their associated circuitry) are insertable to electrically couple with the bus.

A battery module of the eye mask system may comprise a rechargeable battery. The battery may be recharged by connecting it to an external power source, for example via a micro-USB or USB-C port of the battery module (the port being exposed via outer fabric layer, for example), or by inductive charging. In one form of the present technology, the battery may be a disposable battery, and may be removable by the user for replacement with a fresh battery.

In one form of the present technology, one or more sensor modules (and/or actuator modules) may be enclosed entirely between the fabric layers such that no part of the one or more sensor modules is exposed. For example, an actuator module may be coupled to associated circuitry that is received in a sensor-retaining structure. Both the actuator module and circuitry lie entirely between the fabric layers. In another example, a sensor module and associated circuitry may lie entirely between fabric layers. One example of a sensor module that may be fully embedded is an accelerometer or gyroscope.

In one form of the present technology, a sensor module or actuator module may be at least partly exposed. For example, a humidity sensor coupled to circuitry may be at least partly exposed to ambient through the outer fabric layer to measure humidity of the user's environment. To this end, outer fabric layer may comprise an aperture through which a surface of the humidity sensor may be exposed. In another example, a sensor coupled to circuitry may have a surface thereof exposed through the inner fabric layer (e.g., through an aperture formed therein), such that the sensor surface can contact the skin of the user when the eye mask is worn by the user. The sensor may be a pulse oximeter, for example.

Although the electronic components are described above as being modular in construction, and in at least some cases able to be switched out for other components, in some forms of the present technology, one or more electronic components (such as sensors or actuators) may be woven or otherwise integrated into the eye mask. This may enable distribution of a sensor over a larger area for more informative and/or accurate measurements to be made.

Some forms of the present technology may comprise one or more sensors for determining sleeping position and movements of a user. In one form of the present technology, the determined sleeping position and movements may be used to provide a sensory stimulus to the user to cause them to change position. For example, if a number of apnea and/or hypopnea events above a certain threshold, and/or a decrease in blood oxygenation, is detected by the one or more sensors, this may be indicative of the user sleeping in a supine position (back sleeping). One or more actuators may receive an activation signal based on the detection, and the activation signal may cause the one or more actuators to generate a vibration or other tactile stimulus to irritate the user sufficiently to cause them to switch to another sleeping position.

The sensor module may incorporate an accelerometer and/or gyroscope. In one form of the present technology, accelerometer and/or gyroscope measurements may be used to determine a sleep stage of the user.

In one form of the present technology, a pulse oximeter incorporated in the eye mask may be used to assess sleep health. The pulse oximeter may be exposed through a user facing side of the eye mask such that it can contact the skin of the user's forehead. Measurements recorded by pulse oximeter may be used to determine blood oxygen saturation level and heart rate during the period that the eye mask is worn, and this data may be transmitted an external computing device such as a smartphone, other mobile computing device, or laptop or desktop computing system of the user. This communication may occur wirelessly (e.g., using Wi-Fi), although wired communication may also occur. The time series data may be consolidated to provide feedback to the user on their health levels, and recommendations for follow-up (for example, by a clinician).

In one form of the present technology, an EEG sensor may be provided in the eye mask. The EEG sensor may be partially exposed such that it can contact the skin of the user's forehead. Typically, the EEG sensor comprises a plurality of EEG electrodes that generate signals that may be analysed to detect sleep stages. The signals may be transmitted (via transceiver) to an external device, such as the user's smartphone, and the sleep stage, cycle and duration information may be used to provide feedback to the user on how sleep quality, as well as recommendations for enhanced health. For example, the EEG sensor measurements may be used for accurate sleep staging, to enable a more accurate determination of when an apnea or arousal from sleep occurs, e.g. during a sleep study.

In one form of the present technology, the sleep stage information may be used to activate sleep-enhancing white/pink noise, and/or binaural beats. These may be produced by audio devices embedded in the eye mask itself, or by external devices that receive trigger signals from the eye mask via transceiver. For example, one or more miniature bone-conduction speakers may be incorporated in noise reduction components.

In one form of the present technology, an eye mask may incorporate electromyography (EMG) and/or electrooculography (EOG) sensors. EMG and EOG sensor signals may be analysed to determine REM sleep stage occurrences. In similar fashion to examples that incorporate EEG sensors, the sleep stage information determined by the EMG/EOG sensors may be used to provide feedback to the user on sleep quality, or to activate one or more audio devices to produce sleep-enhancing noise.

In one form of the present technology, an eye mask may incorporate a pulse oximeter (SpO2) sensor. The SpO2 sensor is used to measure the oxygen saturation in red blood cells.

In one form of the present technology, an eye mask may incorporate a respiratory rate (RR) sensor.

In one form of the present technology, an eye mask may incorporate a heart rate (HR) sensor and/or a heart rate variability (HRV) sensor.

For example, a ground electrode and reference electrode may be provided in a user facing side of the eye mask, and exposed through respective apertures so as to be able to contact the user's forehead. In another example, a ground electrode may be provided in noise reduction component such that the ground electrode sits behind the user's ear in use. Further electrodes may be provided, each having a cable that attaches to and/or extends within eye mask at one end, and to an external electrode patch at the other end, the electrode patch being positionable by the user on the temple and below their eye to provide two additional measurement channels.

In one form of the present technology, a combination of sensors and actuators may be provided to effect localised temperature change to improve user comfort. For example, an EEG sensor and/or pulse oximeter may be provided, and a temperature sensor and/or a humidity sensor may also be provided. Signals from the EEG and/or PPG sensors may be analysed to detect sleep state, and signals from the temperature sensor and/or humidity sensor may be used to assess ambient comfort levels. One or more Peltier elements may be provided, for example in wearable form on a wristband, and may be coupled to circuitry that communicates with the EEG/PPG and temperature/humidity sensors to receive signals indicative of sleep state and ambient comfort level, and that causes the Peltier element to be activated to locally warm or cool the body (e.g. at the wrist) to help the user remain in a comfortable sleep state.

In one form of the present technology, a haptic feedback element (such as a miniature vibratory motor) may be incorporated in the eye mask, for example in a temple region of the user when in use. The haptic feedback element may deliver vibrations to the user to produce a calming effect. For example, processor may monitor heart rate data from a pulse oximeter, and if this exceeds a threshold, transmit a trigger signal to the haptic feedback element to cause it to vibrate at a few beats lower than the user's current heart rate, to help slow it down. In another example, as mentioned above, a haptic feedback element may be used to influence the sleeping position of the user if it is detected that they are in a sleeping position that is correlated with apnea or hypopnea events.

In one form of the present technology, one or more miniature thermo electric generators (TEGs) may be incorporated into the eye mask, such that the difference between the user's body temperature and the ambient temperature may be used to generate a potential difference and thus to provide power to the various electronic components (sensors, actuators, processor, etc.) of the eye mask. In one form of the present technology, multiple sensors may be incorporated in a single functional module. For example, an accelerometer and gyroscope may be incorporated in a single package.

Pivot Module

In some forms, the eye mask may be pivotable between an open position where the user's eyes are uncovered, and a closed position where the user's eyes are covered. The user may first wear the eye mask over his forehead in a pre-use position (corresponding to the open position). When the user is ready for sleep, in some forms, the user may pull the eye component and face-contacting structure down such that the eye mask is in the closed position and the eye component covers his eyes.

The pivot mechanism allows the positioning and stabilising structure to always be in contact with the user's skin, while allowing for freedom of vision when the eye mask is not in use. For example, the positioning and stabilising structure may be an inner (base) band carrying the EEG electrodes and that is always in contact with the user's skin, while the eye component (and face-contacting structure) is an outer (top) band, which is movable between the open and closed positions. This avoids needing to recalibrate the EEG when the user is ready to go to sleep.

In some forms, the eye mask may comprise a flip mechanism for pivotable movement between an open (pre-use) position and a closed (use) position. The flip mechanism may be attached to the positioning and stabilising structure and positioned adjacent to the forehead of the user. The flip mechanism is further attached to the eye component. In the open position, the eye component is positioned away from the user's eyes. For example, the eye component may be held adjacent to the forehead of the user. In the closed position, the eye mask is moved downwards to cover at least the orbital regions orbital regions of the user's face. In the closed position, the face-contacting structure is made to contact the user's face in order to block out light.

In one form of the present technology, the flip mechanism comprises a spring. The spring may be a leaf spring. This provides a tactile feedback and springs to the open or closed position automatically.

Cooling Module The eye mask may further comprise a cooling means. The cooling means may be positioned on or adjacent to the eye component and adjacent to a forehead of the user. The cooling means may be modular, and may sit in a pocket of the eye component or inserted within a recess of the face-contacting structure. The cooling means may comprise a peltier element. The cooling means may further comprise a heat sink and/or a micro fan for evacuating heat. Alternatively, a gel pack for cooling may be used. A temperature sensor may also be incorporated within or adjacent to the cooling means.

Imaging Module

Immersive technologies may present a user with a combination of a virtual environment and the user's physical environment, or the real world. The user may interact with the resulting immersive or combined reality.

In one form of the present technology, the eye mask immerses the user by augmenting or replacing stimuli associated with one of the user's five senses with a virtual stimuli. Typically this is a virtual stimuli, although there could be additional stimuli that augment or replace stimuli associated with one of the additional four senses.

In some forms, a particular immersive technology may present a user with a combination of a virtual environment and the user's environment. At least a portion of the resulting environment may include a virtual environment. In some examples, the entire resulting environment may be a virtual environment (e.g., meaning the user's environment may be block from view or otherwise obstructed). In other forms, at least a portion of the user's physical environment may still be visually observable.

In some forms, the user may use different types of immersive technologies, which may include, but are not limited to, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), or mixed reality (MR). Each type of immersive technology may present the user with a different environment and/or a different way to interact with the environment.

In some forms, a display system may be used with each type of immersive technology. A display screen of the display system may provide a virtual environment component to the combination environment (i.e., the combination of the virtual and user's environments). In certain forms, the display screen may be an electronic screen. The display screen may be coupled to an inner surface of the eye component. In at least some types of immersive technologies (e.g., VR, AR, MR, etc.), positioning and stabilizing the electronic screen may be useful in operating a respective device. For example, the user may desire the electronic screen to be positioned close enough to their eyes to allow for easy viewing, but far enough away so as not to cause discomfort. Additionally, the electronic screen may need to be spaced far enough away so that users may simultaneously wear corrective lenses, like glasses. In addition, users may seek to maintain the orientation of the electronic screen relative to their eyes. In other words, users who walk, or otherwise move, while using these devices may not want the device to bounce or otherwise move on their head (e.g., particularly relative to their eyes), as this may cause dizziness and/or discomfort to the user. Therefore, these devices may be supported snuggly against the user's head in order to limit relative movement between the user's eyes and the device.

In one form, the present technology comprises a method for using a VR device comprising supporting the device on the user's head proximate to at least one of the user' s eyes, and within the user' s line of sight.

In certain examples of the present technology, a head-mounted display unit is supported in front of both of the user's eyes in order to block, obstruct, and/or limit ambient light from reaching the user's eyes.

Any features disclosed below in the context of a device configured for VR are to be understood as being applicable to devices configured for AR, unless the context clearly requires otherwise. Likewise features disclosed below in the context of a device configured for AR are to be understood as being applicable to devices configured for VR, unless the context clearly requires otherwise. For the avoidance of doubt, a feature disclosed in the context of a device that does not have a transparent display, through which the user can view the real world, is to be understood as being applicable to a device having such a transparent display unless the context clearly requires otherwise. Likewise a feature disclosed in the context of a device that has a transparent display, through which the real-world can be viewed, is to be understood to be applicable to a device in which the display is electronic and through which the real- world cannot be viewed directly through a transparent material. In one form of the present technology, the eye mask comprises a head-mounted display unit. In some forms, a functional aspect may provide one or more physical components. In some forms, one or more physical components may provide one or more functional aspects. The head-mounted display unit may comprise a display. In use, the headmounted display unit is arranged to be positioned proximate and anterior to the user's eyes, so as to allow the user to view the display.

In other aspects, the display unit may also include a display unit housing, an optical lens, a controller, a speaker, a power source, and/or a control system.

The head-mounted display unit may include a structure for providing an observable output to a user. Specifically, the head-mounted display unit is arranged to be held (e.g., manually, by a positioning and stabilizing structure, etc.) in an operational position in front of a user's face.

In some examples, the head-mounted display unit may include a display screen, a display unit housing, an face-contacting structure, and/or an optical lens. These components may be permanently assembled in a single head-mounted display unit, or they may be separable and selectively connected by the user to form the head-mounted display unit.

Some forms of the head-mounted display unit include a display, for example a display screen, but provided within the display housing. The display screen may include electrical components that provide an observable output to the user.

In one form of the present technology, a display screen provides an optical output observable by the user. The optical output allows the user to observe a virtual environment and/or a virtual object.

The display screen may be positioned proximate to the user's eyes, in order to allow the user to view the display screen. For example, the display screen may be positioned anterior to the user's eyes. The display screen can output computer generated images and/or a virtual environment. In some forms, the display screen is an electronic display. The display screen may be a liquid crystal display (LCD), or a light emitting diode (LED) screen.

In certain forms, the display screen may include a backlight, which may assist in illuminating the display screen. This may be particularly beneficial when the display screen is viewed in a dark environment.

In some forms, the display screen may extend wider a distance between the user's pupils. The display screen may also be wider than a distance between the user's cheeks.

In some forms, the display screen may display at least one image that is observable by the user. For example, the display screen may display images that change based on predetermined conditions (e.g., passage of time, movement of the user, input from the user, etc.).

In certain forms, portions of the display screen may be visible to only one of the user's eyes. In other words, a portion of the display screen may be positioned proximate and anterior to only one of the user's eyes (e.g., the right eye), and is blocked from view from the other eye (e.g., the left eye).

In one example, the display screen may be divided into two sides (e.g., a left side and a right side), and may display two images at a time (e.g., one image on either side).

Each side of the display screen may display a similar image. In some examples, the images may be identical, while in other examples, the images may be slightly different.

Together, the two images on the display screen may form a binocular display, which may provide the user with a more realistic VR experience. In other words, the user's brain may process the two images from the display screen together as a single image. Providing two (e.g., un-identical) images may allow the user to view virtual objects on their periphery, and expand their field of view in the virtual environment.

In certain forms, the display screen may be positioned in order to be visible by both of the user's eyes. The display screen may output a single image at a time, which is viewable by both eyes. This may simplify the processing as compared to the multiimage display screen.

In certain forms, the imaging module may comprise a camera. The camera may be external facing (non-user facing side). The camera may allow for interfacing of the imaging module with an external environment.

Massage Module

In one form of the present technology, the eye mask comprises a massage means. The massage means may be positioned on the eye component. The massage means may provide compression and/or vibrational force to the orbital region of the user. The compression and/or vibrational force may be strobed or follows a sinusoidal pattern. The massage means may also comprise LED.

Nose Mask

In one form of the present technology, the eye mask comprises a nose mask. The nose mask may be attached to the eye component. The nose mask may be positionable over a nose bridge region or nose ridge region of the user. The nose mask may provide a barrier around an entrance to the user's nasal airways. The nose mask may comprise a filter. The filter may be used to filter out microbes and/or dust. The nose mask may also comprise a humidifier.

Pairing with an External Device

In some forms, the modules and components as disclosed herein may be paired with a smartphone, or other electronic device. For example, the user may be able to select a sound output using an application on the smartphone or other electronic device. The application may allow the user to select white noise, music, sleep meditation, or any other sound that may assist the user in falling asleep.

In some forms, the noise-cancellation electronics may operate without a smartphone application or other outside electronic device. For example, the noise-cancellation electronics may be contained on the eye mask.

In certain forms, the speaker may be connected to an external device. For example, a home alarm system (e.g., as a result of fire, carbon monoxide, a break-in, etc.) and/or a car alarm may be wirelessly connected to the speaker. Activation of either alarm may play a sound on the speaker to alert the user. The sound may override a noise otherwise selected by the user. When using noise-cancellation electronics, the activation of an alarm may automatically deactivate the noise-cancellation so that the user can hear the alarm.

Pocket for Housing Electronic Module

As mentioned above, the eye mask may comprise a pocket. The pocket may be sized to house a functional module, such as a sensor module, a cooling module, a flip module, a noise reduction component, an imaging module, or a combination thereof. Preferably, the pocket may house an electronic module, such as a sensor module, a cooling module, a noise reduction component, or a combination thereof. Preferably, the pocket may house an electronic module, the module comprising a EEG sensor, a PPG sensor, a cooling unit and a battery. The pocket may be associated with the eye component, or the positioning and stabilising structure. The pocket may be positioned on any portion of the eye mask as long as the functional modules are suitably enabled to perform their function. For example, the pocket may be positioned adjacent to the user's ears for housing a noise reduction component, or positioned adjacent to a forehead region of the user for housing a cooling module.

In some forms, the pocket comprises at least one window for exposing a portion of the electronic module. The portion may be an electrode of an electronic module. The electrode may be for contacting the user's skin in order to pick up a bioelectric signal from the user. The portion may be an outlet of a cooling module, for providing cooling means to the covered eyes of the user. Accordingly, the window may be appropriately sized.

In some forms, the pocket comprises at least one electrode on a user facing side of the eye mask. The electrode may traverse a cross section of the pocket, in order to provide electrical contact between an electronic module and the user's skin.

In some forms, the pocket is formed from substantially the same material as the eye component and/or the positioning and stabilising structure of the eye mask. A slit may be provided in a portion of the eye component and/or the positioning and stabilising structure of the eye mask to form the pocket. In some forms, the pocket further comprises a material in order to reinforce the pocket. For example, the material may be a polymer sheet or foam. The polymer may flexible but tough. The material may be a thicker fabric.

Pull Tab

In some forms, the eye mask comprises a pull tab. The pull tab may be positioned adjacent to a forehead region of the user in use. The pull tab may be positioned on the eye component or the positioning and stabilising structure of the eye mask. For example, the pull tab may be adjacent to a nasal bone of the user in use, or positioned in a region between the eyes of the user in use. The pull tab allows the user to index the eye mask forward such that sufficient space may be created for the eye component to clear the electronic module to be pulled downwards, and/or for inserting an electronic module into a pocket. The pull tab may also be used by the user to adjust the position of the eye mask, and hence improve comfort. When the pull tab is attached to the eye component, the pull tab may also be used to separate the eye component from the positioning and stabilising structure.

Embodiments of the present technology are described below.

FIG. 1A shows an eye mask 1000. The eye mask 1000 comprises an eye component 1010 positioned over at least orbital regions of a face of a user. The orbital region includes a supra-orbital region. The eye component 1010 is further positioned over a portion of an infra-orbital region of the user. The eye component 1010 is configured to block light to the eyes. The eye component 1010 is further positioned over a portion of a nasal region of the user. The eye component 1010 is further positioned over a portion of a zygomatic region of the user. The eye mask 1000 comprises a face-contacting structure 1020 connected to the eye component 1010. The face-contacting structure 1020 is constructed and arranged to engage the user's face. This prevents stray light from entering the inner space of the eye mask 1000 and to the eyes. A positioning and stabilising structure 1030 is attached to the eye component 1010 for attaching the eye mask 1000 to the user's face. The positioning and stabilising structure 1030 may be laminated to the eye component 1010. The positioning and stabilising structure 1030 may be formed as an elastic headband and comprises a front section 1030A and a rear section 1030B. This may provide additional support to prevent displacement of the eye mask 1000 during use. FIG. IB shows the user facing side of eye mask 1000. The eye component 1010 comprises at least one cavity configured to space the eye component apart from the eyes of the user. The cavity over each eye of the user is linked via a bridge portion. The face-contacting structure 1020 further comprises a bridge 1040 for stabilising the eye mask 1000 on a nasal region of the user's face. The bridge 1040 may be made of a different material (for example, a stiffer material) than the face-contacting structure 1020.

FIG. 2A illustrates another eye mask 2000. Eye mask 2000 comprises an eye component 2010. The face-contacting structure 2020 underlies the eye component 2010. The positioning and stabilising structure 2030 is attached to the eye component 1010. The positioning and stabilising structure 2030 formed as a flexible headband circumferentially positionable on a user's head. The positioning and stabilising structure 2030 may further be contiguous with the eye component 2010 such that the eye mask may be worn as a headband on a user's head when not in use. Eye component 2010 is circumferentially attached to at least a portion of the positioning and stabilising structure 2030. Alternatively, eye component 2010 may be formed as a flexible headband circumferentially attached to the positioning and stabilising structure 2030. In this position, the eye component 2010 overlays the positioning and stabilising structure 2030. The positioning and stabilising structure 2030 and the eye component 2010 may be formed of different materials. Alternatively, the face-contacting structure 2020 may be formed of a different material relative to the eye component 2010.

In use, the eye component 2010 may be pulled down to cover the user's eyes (FIG. 2B). The face-contacting structure 2020 contacts at least the orbital regions of the user's face to block out light to the eyes. Pulling down the eye component 2010 exposes a sensor module 2050 positioned on the positioning and stabilising structure 2030. The sensor module 2050 may be detachable, and may be configured to measure EEG.

Eye mask 3000 is shown in FIG. 3A. Eye mask 3000 comprises an eye component 3010 and face-contacting structure 3020. The eye component 3010 may be a perforated, light blocking material or composite material. The eye component 3010 may be made breathable, so as to provide comfort to the user. The face-contacting structure 3020 may be a breathable foam. The eye component 3010 may be laminated to the face- contacting structure 3020. The eye component 3010 is attached to a positioning and stabilising structure 3030 at its ends thereof. The positioning and stabilising structure 3030 may be a strap, which may be elastic. The positioning and stabilising structure 3030 may further comprise adjustable means for fitting the eye mask 3000 to the user's head.

FIG. 3B shows the user facing side of the eye component 3010 and face-contacting structure 3020 of eye mask 3000. The eye component (and the face-contacting structure 3020) is further positionable over the forehead of the user. Eye component 3010 may be a perforated, light blocking material or composite material laminated to face-contacting structure 3020. The face-contacting structure 3020 comprises at least one orifice for housing the eye component 3010. The face-contacting structure 3020 comprises a foam, having a thickness of about 1 cm to about 10 cm. The face-contacting structure 3020 may have a gradient of decreasing thickness towards the orifice in order to improve the breathability of the eye mask 3000. The face-contacting structure 3020 may further be perforated to increase the breathability of the eye mask 3000.

Eye mask 400 of FIG. 4A comprises an eye component 4010, face-contacting structure 4020 and positioning and stabilising structure. As shown in FIG. 4B, the positioning and stabilising structure may be bifurcated into a first section 4070A and a second section 4070B. The positioning and stabilising structure may be bifurcated at opposed sides of the eye component 4010, or adjacent to a temporal region of a user's head in use. The eye mask 4000 comprises a noise reduction component 4060 configured to fit over and/or at least partially inside respective ears of the user. The noise reduction component 4060 may be coupled to the eye component 4010. The noise reduction component 4060 may be contiguous with the eye component 4010. In this regard, the noise reduction component 4060 and the eye component 4010 may be formed form a single material or composite material. Alternatively, the noise reduction component 4060 may be a modular component which is attachable to the eye mask 4000 via tabs at opposed ends of the eye component 4010 thereof.

FIG. 4C shows the components of a noise reduction component 4060. The noise reduction component 4060 comprises a sound absorbing material 4210, a sound absorbing foam 4220, a speaker casing 4230, a speaker 4240, a second sound absorbing foam 4250, and a mesh material 4260. The sound absorbing material 4210, a second sound absorbing foam 4250, and a mesh material 4260 may be laminated together, and provides with passive sound blocking. The speaker 4240 may provide white noise to aid a user's sleep. A noise cancelling component may also be incorporated, and may provide Al-assisted smart sound blocking or active noisecancellation electronics while ensuring essential sounds such as a baby's cry can still pass through.

FIG. 5A is a further embodiment of the eye mask 5000. The eye component 5010 and face-contacting structure 5020 are similarly sized and covers the forehead and a portion of the nasal region of the user's face. The positioning and stabilising structure 5030 has a similar width relative to the eye component 5010, and overlays at least an otobasion superior region of the user's head in use. The positioning and stabilising component 5030 may be configured to overlay an otobasion superior region and otobasion inferior region of the user's head in use.

FIG. 5B shows the eye mask 5000 in a scrunched up configuration. The positioning and stabilising structure 5030 may be pretensioned and made from a soft elastic textile to evenly distribute contact pressure on the face. The curved morphology of the eye component 5010 conforms to the user's face, and provides better skin contact and light blocking.

FIG. 6A and 6B show an eye mask 6000. The eye component 6010 and face-contacting structure 6020 are similarly sized and covers the forehead and a portion of the nasal region of the user's face. The face-contacting structure 6020 is further contoured to conform to the user's face for a better fit. In this regard, the eye mask 6000 further comprises a bridge portion 6040 between the left and right orbital regions of the eye component 6010. This may provide better stability to the eye mask 6000 when in use. The positioning and stabilising structure 6030 overlays an otobasion superior region of the user's head in use. The positioning and stabilising structure 6030 comprises a rigidiser 6080. The rigidiser 6080 may extend throughout the positioning and stabilising structure 6030 or at least at a portion of the positioning and stabilising structure 6030. The rigidiser 6030 provides stability to the eye mask 6000 during use.

FIG. 7A shows an eye mask 7000. The eye component 7010 and face-contacting structure 7020 are similarly sized and covers the forehead and a portion of the nasal region of the user's face. The face-contacting structure 7020 is further contoured to conform to the user's face for a better fit. In this regard, the eye mask 7000 further comprises a bridge portion 7040 between the left and right orbital regions of the eye component 7010. This may provide better stability to the eye mask 7000 when in use. The positioning and stabilising structure 7030 overlays a otobasion superior region of the user's head in use. The positioning and stabilising structure 7030 may comprise adjustable means for tightening the eye mask 7000 to a user's head.

FIG. 7B and 7C show the positioning and stabilising structure 7030 bifurcated at opposed sides of the eye component 7010, or adjacent to a temporal region of a user's head in use. The positioning and stabilising structure 7030 is bifurcated to form a first bifurcated section 7070A and a second bifurcated section 7070B, wherein the first and second bifurcated sections jointly cradle a crown of the user's head in use. The first bifurcated section 7070A and second bifurcated section 7070B may be movable relative to each other such that the user may adjust the positioning and stabilising structure 7030 to a comfortable position.

FIG. 8A shows an eye mask 8000. The eye component 8010 and face-contacting structure 8020 are similarly sized and covers the forehead and a portion of the nasal region of the user's face. The face-contacting structure 8020 is further contoured to conform to the user's face for a better fit. In this regard, the eye mask 8000 further comprises a bridge portion 8040 between the left and right orbital regions of the eye component 8010. This may provide better stability to the eye mask 8000 when in use. The positioning and stabilising structure 8030 overlays an otobasion superior region of the user's head in use. The positioning and stabilising structure 8030 may comprise adjustable means for tightening the eye mask 7000 to a user's head.

FIG. 8B shows the positioning and stabilising structure 8030 bifurcated at opposed sides of the eye component 8010, or adjacent to a temporal region of a user's head in use. The positioning and stabilising structure 8030 is bifurcated to form a first bifurcated section 8070A and a second bifurcated section 8070B, wherein the first and second bifurcated sections jointly cradle a crown of the user's head in use. In this case, the angle at which the first bifurcated section 8070A and second bifurcated section 8070B meets with each other is fixed, and may be about 60° to about 120°. The positioning and stabilising structure 8030 may have a width or thickness of about 10 mm to about 50 mm, and may be formed from a fabric composite material. The positioning and stabilising structure 8030 may comprise a foam sandwiched between fabric layers.

FIG. 9A and 9B show an eye mask 9000. The eye component 9010 and face-contacting structure 9020 are similarly sized. The face-contacting structure 9020 is further contoured to conform to the user's face for a better fit. The eye mask 9000 further comprises a bridge portion 9040 between the left and right orbital regions of the eye component 9010. The positioning and stabilising structure comprises a first section 9072 which acts as a headband, configured to circumferentially and elastically bind to the user's head. A second section 9074 is connected to the eye component 9010 and is movably attached to the first section 9072. The eye mask 9000 further comprises flip means 9080 for movably connecting the eye component to the positioning and stabilising structure between an open position and a closed position. The flip means 9080 may be positioned adjacent to the forehead of the user. In the open position, the eye component 9010 is positioned away from the user's eyes. For example, the eye component 9010 may be held adjacent to the forehead of the user (FIG. 9A). In the closed position, the eye mask 9000 is moved downwards to cover the forehead, orbital regions and a portion of the nasal region of the user's face (FIG. 9B). The facecontacting structure 9020 is made to contact the user's face.

FIG. 9C shows eye mask 9000. The flip means 9080 may be a spring such as a leaf spring. This provides a tactile feedback and springs to the open or closed position automatically.

FIG. 10A shows eye mask 10000. The eye mask 10000 may rest on a user's forehead when the user is not yet ready for sleep. The eye mask 10000 comprises an eye component 10010, a face-contacting structure and positioning and stabilising structure. The face-contacting structure is dimensioned to be similar in size with the eye component 10010. The eye component 10010 and face-contacting structure may be formed from a single material or composite material. The face-contacting structure may further comprise thermoformed bridge portion to conform to the nose and further aid in light blocking. The eye component 10010 forms an outer band which loops around the user's head. The eye component 10010 is connected to the positioning and stabilising structure, for example, via a textile shroud. For example, the positioning and stabilising structure may form an inner band within loops around the user's head. The inner band may be circumferentially connected to the outer band. In this position, the positioning and stabilising structure is hidden behind the eye component 10010. The eye component 10010 is movably to cover at least the eyes of the user

FIG. 11A shows eye mask 11000 comprising eye component 11010, face-contacting structure 11020 and positioning and stabilising structure 11030. The eye mask 11000 further comprises a sensor module 11090. The sensor module 11090 is positioned on the eye component 11010 and at adjacent to a forehead of the user. The sensor module may be configured to sense EEG, and/or PPG. As shown in FIG. 11B, the eye mask 11000 further comprises electrode 11100 on an inner surface thereof, or on a user facing surface. The electrodes 11100 receives a signal from the user and send the signal or a derivative thereof to the sensor module 11090. The electrode 11100 may be provided on a fabric or padding 11110, which may be removable.

FIG. 12A shows eye mask 12000 comprising eye component 12010, face-contacting structure 12020 and positioning and stabilising structure 12030. The eye mask 12000 further comprises cooling module 12090. The cooling module 12090 is positioned on the eye component 12010 and at adjacent to a forehead of the user. The cooling module may comprise a peltier element. The cooling module may further comprise a heat sink and/or a micro fan for evacuating heat (FIG. 12B). A temperature sensor may also be incorporated within or adjacent to the cooling module 12090.

FIG. 13A shows eye mask 13000 comprising eye component 13010 and positioning and stabilising structure 13030. The eye component 13010 overlaps the positioning and stabilising structure 13030 at a forehead region of the user. FIG. 13B shows a back view of the eye mask 13000. Pocket 13120 is positioned such that it is adjacent to the user's forehead in use. The pocket 13120 is formed from substantially the same material as the positioning and stabilising structure 13030. The pocket comprises a window 13130 for exposing at least one electrode of an electronic module, which may be housed within the pocket and is detachable from the eye mask 13000. When the electronic module is housed, the electronic module is not visible from an external (non-user facing) side of the eye mask. The eye mask 13000 further comprises a pull tab 13140. The pull tab 13140 is attached to the eye component 13010. The pull tab 13140 is positioned at a forehead region and in a region between the eyes of the user in use. FIG. 14 shows a front and back view of eye mask 14000 comprising eye component 14010 and positioning and stabilising structure 14030. The eye component 14010 overlaps the positioning and stabilising structure 14030 at a forehead region of the user, and in particular at a supraorbital ridge. As shown in the back view, an internal side of the eye component 14010 is bordered by a face-contacting structure, which also acts a cushion. Pocket 14120 is positioned such that it is adjacent to the user's forehead in use, and in particular at a supraorbital ridge. The pocket 14120 is formed from substantially the same material as the positioning and stabilising structure 14030. The pocket 14120 comprises a window 14130 for exposing at least one electrode of an electronic module, which may be housed within the pocket 14120 and is detachable from the eye mask 14000. When the electronic module is housed, the electronic module is not visible from an external (non-user facing) side of the eye mask 14000. The pocket 14120 may form a bulge at an external (non-user facing) side of the eye mask 14000. This provides more space for housing an electronic module. Other functional modules such as a cooling module may be incorporated into the pocket 14120. The eye mask 14000 further comprises a pull tab 14140. The pull tab 14140 is attached to the eye component 14010. The pull tab 14140 is positioned at a forehead region and in a region between the eyes of the user in use.

FIG. 15A shows a front of eye mask 15000 comprising eye component 15010 and positioning and stabilising structure 15030. The eye component 15010 overlaps the positioning and stabilising structure 15030 at a forehead region of the user, and in particular at a supraorbital ridge. FIG. 15B shows a back view of eye mask 15000, an internal side of the eye component 15010 is bordered by a face-contacting structure 15020, which also acts a cushion. Pocket 15120 is positioned such that it is adjacent to the user's forehead in use, and in particular at a supraorbital ridge. The pocket 15120 is formed from substantially the same material as the positioning and stabilising structure 15030. The pocket 15120 comprises a window 15130 for exposing at least one electrode of an electronic module, which may be housed within the pocket 15120 and is detachable from the eye mask 15000. When the electronic module is housed, the electronic module is not visible from an external (non-user facing) side of the eye mask 15000. The pocket 15120 may form a bulge at an external (non-user facing) side of the eye mask 15000. This provides more space for housing an electronic module. Other functional modules such as a cooling module may be incorporated into the pocket 15120. FIG. 16A and 16B show eye mask 16000 comprising a flip mechanism 16080 for pivotable movement between an open (pre-use) position and a closed (use) position. The flip mechanism 16080 is attached to the positioning and stabilising structure 16030 and positioned adjacent to the temple of the user. The flip mechanism 16080 is further attached to the eye component 16010. In the open position, the eye component 16010 is positioned away from the user's eyes (FIG. 16A). For example, the eye component 16010 may be held adjacent to the forehead of the user. In the closed position (FIG. 16B), the eye component 16010 is moved downwards to cover at least the orbital regions orbital regions of the user's face.

FIG. 17 shows eye mask 17000. The eye component 17010 is separate-able from the positioning and stabilising structure 17030 via the pull tab 17140.

FIG. 18A shows a back view of eye mask 18000. The eye mask 18000 comprises an eye component 18010 positionable over at least orbital regions of a face of a user. The eye component 18010 is further positionable over a portion of an infra-orbital region of the user. The eye component 18010 is further positionable over a portion of a nasal region of the user. The eye component 18010 is further positionable over a portion of a zygomatic region of the user. The eye mask 18000 comprises a face-contacting structure 18020 connected to the eye component 18010. The face-contacting structure 18020 is constructed and arranged to engage the user's face such that the eye component 18010 is spaced apart from the user's eyes. The face-contacting structure comprises a recess 18150 positionable over a frontal region of the face of the user. A functional module (not shown) may be inserted into the recess 18150. A positioning and stabilising structure 18030 is attached to the eye component 18010 for attaching the eye mask 18000 to the user's face. The positioning and stabilising structure 18030 comprises a left strap and a right strap. The left strap and right strap may be connected by a connector such as a buckle. The positioning and stabilising structure 18030 may be adjustable.

FIG. 18B shows another back view of eye mask 18000. A functional module 18160 is inserted into recess 18150. Each end of the functional module 18160 comprises at least one protrusion for mating with complementary groove in the recess 18150. FIG. 19A shows a side view of eye mask 19000. Eye mask 19000 is similar to that in FIG. 7A, in that eye component 19010 and face-contacting structure 19020 are similarly sized and covers the forehead and a portion of the nasal region of the user's face. The face-contacting structure 19020 is further contoured to conform to the user's face for a better fit. The eye component 19010 comprises wings 19170. The positioning and stabilising structure 19030 is connected to wings 19170 of the eye component 19010 at a temporal bone region of the user. The positioning and stabilising structure 19030 is connected to wings 19170 using bonding adhesive, molding and/or stitching. As also shown in FIG. 19B, Zig-zag stitching 19180 may be used. The positioning and stabilising structure 19030 overlays a otobasion superior region of the user's head in use. The positioning and stabilising structure 19030 comprises adjustable mechanism comprising a swivel 19190 and/or a slide buckle 19200 for tightening the eye mask 19000 to a user's head (FIG. 19C).

Claims

1. An eye mask, comprising : a) an eye component positionable over at least orbital regions of a face of a user and configured to block light to eyes of the user; b) an face-contacting structure connected to or contiguous with the eye component; and c) a positioning and stabilising structure for attaching the eye mask to the user's face, the positioning and stabilizing structure comprising two straps configured to extend along respective sides of the user's head.

2. The eye mask according to claim 1, wherein the eye component comprises a main body and a pair of rigidizer arms connected to respective sides of the main body, and wherein the two straps are provided to respective ones of the pair of rigidizer arms.

3. The eye mask according to claim 2, wherein the two straps each comprises a hollow ribbon structure to receive the respective rigidizer arms.

4. The eye mask according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the two straps each comprises a slit-like configuration adapted to receive the respective rigidiser arms.

5. The eye mask according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the positioning and stabilising structure is bifurcated into two back strap portions, the back strap portions adapted to extend along the back of the user's head.

6. The eye mask according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein each end of the two straps includes a finger tab.

7. The eye mask according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the two straps comprises a first longer strap and a second shorter strap.

8. The eye mask according to claim 7, wherein the first longer strap comprising the two back strap portions.

9. The eye mask according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the two straps are made of an elastic material.

10. The eye mask according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the positioning and stabilising structure has a width of about 20 mm to about 30 mm.

11. The eye mask according to any one of claims 5 to 10, where a length of the two back strap portions relative to a length of the positioning and stabilising structure is about 35% to about 60%.

12. The eye mask according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the two straps are connected to one another by an adjustment mechanism.

13. The eye mask according to claim 12, wherein the adjustment mechanism comprises a buckle, the buckle comprising a first end portion curved relative to a second end portion.

14. The eye mask according to claim 12, wherein the first end portion is curved away from a user when in use.

15. The eye mask according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the second end portion is non-adjustably connected to an end of the second shorter strap.

16. The eye mask according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the back strap portions are adapted to engage with the buckle.

17. The eye mask according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the buckle comprises a first opening configured to receive both back strap portions and a pair of second openings each configured to receive respective ones of the back strap portions.

18. The eye mask according to claim 17, wherein the pair of second openings each includes an angled edge.

19. The eye mask according to any one of claims 13 to 18, wherein the buckle comprises a base formed from a rigid material, and an overmold formed from a relatively softer material.