WO2023146415A1

WO2023146415A1 - Device for restricting the vertical field of view of a user

Info

Publication number: WO2023146415A1
Application number: PCT/NO2023/050023
Authority: WO
Inventors: Odd Viggo MØLMANN; Siv ØVERNES; Charlotte E. ÄLMÖ
Original assignee: In Balance Inventions As
Priority date: 2022-01-31
Filing date: 2023-01-27
Publication date: 2023-08-03
Also published as: NO20220148A1

Abstract

A device (100) for restricting the vertical field of view of a user, comprising: a screen (120); a face rest (130, 140, 145); and an attachment means (110, 115); wherein the face rest (130, 140, 145) is shaped to register with at least one feature of a human face; and the attachment means (110, 115) is configured, in use, to secure the device (100) to the head of a user such that the screen (120) limits the vertical field of view of the user downwards.

Description

DEVICE FOR RESTRICTING THE VERTICAL FIELD OF VIEW OF A USER

FIELD

The present invention relates to a device for restricting the vertical field of view of a user downwards. The device can be worn when performing sports to improve balance or when trying to improve posture by ensuring the head is not moved out of a neutral position.

BACKGROUND

Many people in modern society suffer from the effects of poor posture. This is exacerbated by the use of computers, mobile phones and other electronic devices. Over time, poor posture can have serious impacts on the human body, leading to, among other problems, chronic neck pain.

It is desirable to keep the head in a so called ‘neutral position’ which is achieved when the ears are positioned directly above the shoulder with the chest open and shoulder back, with the body in a generally relaxed state. Many health professionals recommend such a posture, and attempts have been made to encourage such as posture when working at computers for example by the use of chairs with modified back and head supports, and recommendations have been made for computer screen position relative to the head and eyes of the user. Adopting a correct posture can ensure that certain muscles do not become either weakened, strained, shorted or tightened.

The deep cervical flexors are a muscle group consisting of the longus capitus and longus colli muscles, which run down the front of the cervical spine and help flex the neck forward as well as stabilise the cervical spine. When weakened, the deep cervical flexors lengthen as the chin tilts away from the neck.

The erector spinae are a group of muscles and tendons which are attached to the back of the lower cervical spine and upper thoracic spine. The erector spinae play a key role in rotating and straightening the spine, and when they lengthen and lose strength, they are less capable of keeping the neck and upper back from hunching forward.

The shoulder blade retractors in the upper back help bring the shoulder blades backwards to keep the shoulders back and chest open, to maintain good posture. When these muscles allow the shoulder blades to tilt forward, the result is hunched shoulders and a forward head posture. Four pairs of small muscles called the suboccipital muscles connect the lower back of the skull to the top of the cervical spine and help with head rotation and extension. These muscles become overworked when the head is held too far forward in bad posture.

The pectoralis minor muscles are a pair of thin triangular muscles in the upper part of the chest. These muscles tend to become shortened and tightened with forward, rather than neutral, posture.

Finally, the levator scapulae muscles are a pair of muscles located along the back and side of the neck, travelling from the upper cervical spine down the shoulder blade. The levator scapulae plays a key role in elevating the shoulder blades, in addition to helping with various neck movements. Bad posture can result in the levator scapulae muscles becoming shortened.

These are merely examples of some muscles and tendons which are damaged or affected by a non-neutral position being adopted. It will be understood that many other negative effects are known.

It is also highly desirable to adopt, or move the body closer to, the neutral position when performing some sports, particularly sports which require good balance, such as horse riding. It is very common for horse riding instructors to continually ask the rider to lift their head and focus their gaze on something ahead or higher than the horse, thereby moving their head closer to or into the neutral position and achieving better balance. However, it is difficult for some people to maintain this position. Attempts have been made in horse riding to alert the rider when their head is dipping, such as audio feedback in helmets which alert the rider by means of a warning tone when the head is dipping, and therefore moving the head away from the neutral position and adversely affecting the balance of the rider.

If the neutral position can be maintained, the result is better for the rider and the horse. When a rider is not in a neutral position, the rider become unbalanced on the horse and the horse compensates for this unbalance, which affects the natural movements of the horse and exposes the horse to increased risk of injury. Furthermore, it is harder for the rider to effectively communicate with the horse when the rider is out of balance on the horse.

Other sports also suffer similar balancing issues, in that the participant in the sport has a tendency to look down rather than ahead, particularly while learning or attempting to master the sport. For example, when learning to ski it is common for the skier to look down at their skis rather than up and ahead. Beginner skiers report that they do this to see where their skis are, however they must learn to control the skis without looking at them to allow better balance to be maintained. Looking down at the skis puts the skier off balance and impacts the stability and safety of the skier.

Patent document US8,388,461 B1 discloses small flexible decals having a vinyl cling membrane base layer that attach onto the lens of conventional spectacles forming a training aid for use in sports activities such as golf. The decals cling firmly to the spectacle lens by cling attraction and do not require and adhesive. The decals occupy a small area of the lends and are positioned directly in line between the user’s eyes and visual target. This creates the appearance of a projected decal image superimposed over the visual target.

Patent document LIS2021113891 A1 discloses a system for user adjustable optical field of view alteration. The system includes a support member, an optical system, and an adjustment system. The support member releasably secures the system to a user’s face, including a frame over the user’s nose and two temples extending back from the frame over the user’s ears. The optical system is positioned on the frame substantially in front of the user’s eyes. The optical system displays an altered field of view to the user’s eyes.

Patent document CN202404325U discloses special eyeglasses for retinal detachment surgery, comprising a spectacle body, characterised in that the inner or outer side of the lens the spectacle body is provided with a light-shielding layer that matches the shape of the lens, and the centre of the light-shielding layer is provided with a cavity.

Patent document JPH10165552A discloses a posture corrector effective in the field of sports such as golf, baseball and gateball.

Patent document LIS2017050100A1 discloses an eyeglass assembly for training golfers including first and second lenses that are opaque except at first and second viewing portions. The first viewing portion on the first lends provides a first eye of the user with a view of the target in a target region, such as the golf ball, while the second viewing portion provides a second eye of the user with a view not including the target region.

Patent document JP3209988U discloses golf spectacles and sunglasses for preventing axial vibration caused by head-up during a golf swing.

The invention has for its object to remedy or to reduce at least one of the drawbacks of the prior art, or at least provide a useful alternative to prior art.

The object is achieved through features, which are specified in the description below and in the claims that follow.

SUMMARY

The invention is defined by the independent patent claims. The dependent claims define advantageous embodiments of the invention.

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a device for restricting the vertical field of view of a user, comprising: a screen; a face rest; and an attachment means; wherein the face rest is shaped to register with at least one feature of a human face; and the attachment means is configured, in use, to secure the device to the head of a user such that the screen limits the vertical field of view of the user downwards.

The screen may be non-transparent or partially transparent. The screen may be translucent.

The screen may comprise a substantially flat upper surface. The screen may comprise a convex upper surface. The screen may comprise a convex upper surface.

The screen may be moveable relative to the attachment means, such that the user can move the screen to adjust the restriction of the vertical field of view.

The screen may be mounted on a pivot.

The screen may be moveable between a plurality of pre-determined positions, corresponding to a plurality of restrictions of the vertical field of view.

The face rest may comprise a nose bridge configured, in use, to engage with the nose of a user.

The nose bridge may be at an angle of between 15 and 30 degrees from the vertical, such that, in use, the nose bridge provides comfortable engagement with the nose of a user.

The nose bridge may be at an angle of around 22.5 degrees from the vertical.

The face rest may comprise a first cheek rest and a second cheek rest, wherein the first cheek rest and second cheek rest are configured, in use, to engage with a first cheek and a second cheek of a user, respectively.

The first cheek rest and second cheek rest may each be configured at an angle of between 20 and 40 degrees from the vertical, such that, in use, the first cheek rest and second cheek rest provide comfortable engagement with the cheeks of a user. The first cheek rest and second cheek rest may each be at an angle of around 30 degrees from the vertical.

The attachment means may comprise at least one strap for securing the device to the head of a user.

The at least one strap may comprise a plurality of straps. The plurality of straps may each be splayed into first and second limbs, thereby providing a space between the first and second limbs for locating an ear of a user in use, to attach the device to the head of a user.

The attachment means may comprise first and second stiff legs.

The first and second stiff legs may be elongate and substantially straight such that the device can be attached to the head of a user wearing a helmet.

The device may comprise a frame and an insert, wherein the frame and insert are releasably attachable in use, wherein the insert comprises the screen and face rest and the frame comprises the attachment means.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a system for arranging a device to restrict the vertical field of view of a user, the system comprising: a wearable object; and the device comprising a screen; wherein the wearable object comprises an attachment means configured to releasably secure the wearable object to the head of a user; the device is attachable to the wearable object via an interface configured such that, in use, when the device is attached to the wearable object and the wearable object is attached to a user, the screen is arranged to limit the vertical field of view of the user downwards.

The screen may be transparent or partially transparent.

The wearable object may a helmet. The wearable object may be a hat or cap. The wearable object may by riding ***s or skiing goggles. The wearable object may be a riding helmet or a skiing helmet. The wearable object may be a visor, for example a protective visor or a safety visor.

According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a helmet configured to restrict the vertical field of view of a user, the helmet comprising a screen configured such that when the helmet is worn by a user, the screen limits the vertical field of view of the user downwards.

The screen may be transparent or partially transparent.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of improving balance when performing a sport, the method comprising the steps of providing a device for restricting the vertical field of view of a user according to the first aspect of the invention and securing the device to the head of the user using the attachment means such that the screen of the device limits the vertical field of view of the user.

The step of securing the device to the head of a user may include the step of resting the face rest on at least one feature of the face of the user.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the following drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 shows a top view of an example of a device for restricting the vertical field of view of a user;

Fig. 2 shows a bottom view of the device of Fig. 1;

Figs. 3 and 4 show isometric views of the device of Fig. 1;

Fig. 4 shows a front view of the device of Fig. 1 ;

Figs. 6, 7 and 8 show isometric views of the device of Fig. 1 ;

Figs. 9 and 10 show isometric views of another example of a device for restricting the vertical field of view of a user;

Figs. 11 and 12 show isometric views of a detachable insert comprising the face rest and screen of the device shown in Figs. 9 and 10;

Fig. 13 shows a hidden line view of the detachable insert shown in Figs. 11 and 12;

Fig. 14 shows a cross-sectional view of the detachable insert shown in Figs. 11 and 12;

Fig. 15 shows a front view of the detachable insert shown in Figs. 11 and 12;

Fig. 16 shows a plan view of the detachable insert shown in Figs. 11 and 12;

Figs. 17 shows an isometric view of the frame of the device shown in Figs. 9 and 10;

Fig. 18 shows a detail view of a friction surface of the frame shown in Fig. 17; Figs. 19 and 20 show side and plan views of the frame shown in Fig. 17; and Figs. 21 and 22 show isometric views of the device shown in Figures 9 to 20 further comprising optional periphery view blocking means. For clarity reasons, some elements may in some of the figures be without reference numerals. A person skilled in the art will understand that the figures are just principal drawings. The relative proportions of individual elements may also be distorted.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the following is described examples of a preferred embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

Fig. 1 shows a top view and Fig. 2 shows a bottom view of a device 100 which is configured to be attached to the head of the user (not shown) to limit the extent of the observable world that is seen by the user at any given moment, commonly referred to as the field of view. It will be understood that, with a horizontal eye line, the average person has a vertical field of view of around 50-55 degrees from the horizontal upwards to the upper limit of the field of view, and around 70-80 degrees from the horizontal downwards to the lower limit of the field of view.

The device 100 comprises a first strap 110 and a second strap 115 configured to securely attach the device 100 to the head of a user as will be explained later. The device 100 also comprises a non-transparent screen 120 which is positioned on the device 100 such that when the device 100 is worn by a user, the field of view of the user is limited. The device 100 further comprises a nose bridge 130, a first cheek rest 140 and a second cheek rest 145, configured to engage with the nose and cheeks of a user.

Figs. 3 and 4 show isometric views of the device 100. In these views, the first and second straps 110, 115 can be seen more clearly. The first strap 110 is splayed into first and second limbs 111, 112, comprising first and second securement apertures 113, 114, respectively. The second strap 115 is splayed into third and fourth limbs 116, 117 comprising third and fourth securement apertures 118, 119, respectively. The first and second limbs 111, 112 and third and fourth limbs 116, 117 are each configured to provide a space therebetween for locating the ears of the user. In this way, the first and second limbs 111 , 112 can be located around the right ear of the user and the third and fourth limbs 116, 117 can be located around the left ear of the user.

Alternatively, in other examples, the device 100 may comprise stiff legs, similar to legs of spectacles, instead of straps 110, 115. In another example not shown, the device 100 may comprise stretchable fabric loops similar to loops found on surgical face masks, where the loops are configured to be positioned behind the ears of the user to secure the device 100 to the face of the user. In some examples, the device 100 may be provided with hook and loop fasteners. In this connection, the first strap 110 may be provided with a hook fastener and the second strap 115 may be provided with a loop fastener, or vice versa, such that when the first 110 and second 115 straps are brought together behind the head, they releasably engage to secure the device 100 to the head of a user. Alternatively, the first and second straps 110, 115 may be simple pieces of flexible material, which can be tied in a knot by the user to secure the device 100 to the head of the user. Alternatively, a releasably locking bridge may be provided between the first 110 and second 115 straps to releasably connect the first 110 and second 115 straps to attach the device 100 to the head of a user. Alternatively, the first and second straps 110, 115 may be provided as cords with a substantially circular cross-section, with the locking of the cords being provided by a cord lock or toggle arranged with a button to selectively lock or release the cords. Alternatively, each strap 110, 115 may be configured with a quick release buckle attached at the end of the strap 110, 115. In this connection, the first strap 110 may comprise a male buckle attachment and the second strap 115 may be comprise a female buckle attachment, or vice versa. Alternatively, the first 110 and second 115 straps may be releasably attached and adjustable by connection via a ladder lock buckle.

Fig. 5 shows a front view of the device 100, where it can be seen that the screen 120 in the presently described example is substantially flat on its upper surface 121. It will be understood that when the device 100 is worn on the nose and cheeks of a user, with the straps 110, 115 securing the device to the head of the user, the eyes of the user are above the upper surface 121 in Fig. 5. As previously discussed, with a horizontal eye line, the average person has a vertical field of view of around 70-80 degrees from the horizontal downwards to the lower limit of the field of view. When wearing the device 100, the field of view downwards is severely restricted by the non-transparent screen 120. In some examples the non-transparent screen 120 may be a partially transparent screen such that only very limited visibility therethrough can be achieved. In either case, if the user tries to look downwards the line of sight of the user will be interrupted by the top surface 121 of the screen. When wearing the device 100, should the user want to look downwards, for example at a keyboard if working at a computer, at a horse if horse riding, or at skis if skiing, the user has to tilt their head downwards until the item they wish to look at is brought into their line of sight. This makes looking downwards particularly difficult and uncomfortable for the user, and therefore reminds and encourages the user not the look downwards. Without the device 100, the user is able to glance downwards, which often results in an inadvertent forwards and downwards motion of the head, thereby off- balancing the user and straining muscles and tendons such as the longus capitus and longus colli muscles, erector spinae, shoulder blade retractors etc. as the head is moved out of neutral alignment, as previously described. This often happens even when people are merely sitting at a computer, without the person realising the strain they are inadvertently putting on their bodies. With the device 100 attached to the user as described, the user is not able to glance downwards, therefore the inadvertent forwards and downwards motion of the head and so movement out of neutral alignment or further out of neutral alignment, is avoided. If a person already suffers from chronic neck pain, for example, they may struggle to adopt a better posture naturally, as they may inadvertently continue to allow their head to move forwards and out of neutral alignment.

Another isometric view of the device is shown in Fig. 6, to aid in understanding. Referring now to Fig. 7, it can be seen that the top surface 121 in the presently described example is flat, i.e. non-curved. In some examples, the top surface 121 may be curved to form a convex top surface, thereby extending the vertical field of view at the sides whilst keeping the vertical field of view more restricted near the centre. This provides a trade off between blocking the field of view of the user and encouraging the user not to look downwards, as in most cases the user would look directly downwards to see the keyboard, horse, skis etc located directly downwards relative to the user, and inadvertently moving their head forwards and/or downwards whilst doing so.

In some examples, the top surface 121 may be curved to form a concave top surface, thereby restricting the vertical field of view at the sides even further than in the centre, which may be desirable if the activity to be performed also encourages the user to inadvertently look to the right or to the left.

In another alternative example not shown, the screen 120 may be moveable relative to the nose bridge 130, first cheek rest 140 and second cheek rest 145. In this connection, the screen 120 may be adjustable between a plurality of angles to allow the user to adjust the restriction of the field of view created when wearing the device 100. For example, a beginner horse rider may not feel comfortable blocking all or a large portion of their vertical field of view by using a screen 121 set to be substantially horizontal. Therefore, the user may adjust the screen to an angle from the horizontal such that some of the vertical field of view below the horizontal is blocked, but some remains visible. As the rider improves their balance and competence on the horse, they may wish to adjust the screen 121 to a horizontal or closer to horizontal position. Providing an adjustable screen 121 on the device 100 therefore allows fine-tuning of the amount of vertical field of view that is restricted by the device 100. It will be appreciated that the device 100 may be configured in any number of ways to allow the screen 120 to move, or to allow the top surface 121 of the screen to dip to adjust the severity of the restriction of the vertical field of view. In this regard, the screen 120 may be configured to move vertically up and down and/or to tilt. It is well within the abilities of the person skilled in the art to be able to configure the screen to be moveable and adjustable within the device. Some non-limiting examples (not shown) of such adjustment means are firstly, the screen 120 being mounted on a pivot such that the screen 120 can be adjusted through a plurality of angles. Secondly, the screen 120 being moveable within a retaining means in the straps 110, 115, such as for example a pin-in-slot configuration whereby the screen 120 may be moved between a first position and a second position by removing the pin securing the screen 120 to the straps 110, 115 and re-securing the pin in a different slot.

Referring now to Fig. 8, it can be seen that the nose bridge 130 and first and second cheek rests 140, 145 are configured to register with the face of a user. In the presently described example, registration of the nose bridge 130 with the nose of a user is in the form of the provision of the nose bridge 130 at around a 22.5 degree angle from the vertical. This ensures that the nose bridge 130 sits comfortably on the nose of a user. In the presently described example, registration of the first cheek rest 140 and second cheek rest 145 with the cheeks of a user is in the form of the provision of the first and second cheek rests 140, 145 at around a 30 degree angle from the vertical. This ensures that the cheek rests 140, 145 sit comfortably on the cheeks of a user.

Referring now to Figures 9 to 20, there is provided an alternative example of a device which is configured to be attached to the head of the user (not shown) to limit the extent of the field of view of the user downwards. The alternative device has similar features to the device described with reference to Figures 1 to 8, therefore like reference numerals are used to indicate like parts, with the addition of ‘ in the alternative example in Figures 9 to 20.

Referring firstly to Figures 9 and 10, there is provided a device 100’ comprising a frame 10T and an insert 102’. The frame 10T comprises a rearward portion 101’A and a forward portion 101’B, wherein the rearward portion 101’A is configured to attach to the head of a user and the forward portion 101’B is arranged to releasably hold the insert 102’ when the device is in use. The insert 102’ can be manually removed by a user for cleaning, storage, exchange with another insert or repair, as will be explained.

Figures 9 and 10 show the device 100’ assembled. Figures 11 to 16 show alternative views of the insert 102’ and Figures 17 to 20 show alternative views of the frame 10T. Figures 21 and 22 show alternative views of the device 100’ assembled with additional optional side screens (explained later).

It will be appreciated that, for the sake of brevity, the presently described example details only a single insert 102’. However, in alternative examples, the device 100’ may be provided with a series of inserts 102’ comprising different properties such as different shapes, sizes or materials, allowing interchangeability of inserts 102’ within the same frame 10T for different face shapes, sizes, personal preferences as well as different applications such as the performance of different sports or different light conditions, as will be explained later.

Still referring to Figures 9 and 10, the rearward portion 101’A comprises a first leg 110’ and a second leg 115’ configured to securely attach the device 100’ to the head of a user (not shown). The legs 110’, 115’ are resiliently biased towards each other, thereby securely gripping the head of a user in use.

Furthermore, it can be seen that the first and second legs 110’, 115’ are each provided with a substantially straight elongate form, thereby allowing the device 110’ to be put on and taken off of a user wearing a helmet (not shown).

Furthermore, the first 110’ and second 115’ legs are provided with first 110’ A and second 115’A friction surfaces, respectively. The friction surfaces 110’A, 115’A are provided on inner surfaces of the first and second legs 110’, 115’ and comprise a material with a higher coefficient of friction than the material from which the legs 110’, 115’ are formed. A non-limiting example of one suitable type of material may be a thermoplastic elastomeric material. The frame may in some examples be formed of polyamide.

As can be seen mostly clearly in Figures 9 and 10, the frame 10T is configured such that the rearward portion 101’A (configured to attach to the head of a user) and the forward portion 101’B (arranged to releasably hold the insert) are offset such that when in use, i.e. when the rearward portion 101’A is attached to the head of a user, the forward portion 101’B is lower than the rearward portion 101’A. This arrangement allows eyes of the user to be conveniently positioned above the forward portion 101’B where the insert is provided, as will become apparent in due course. Such an arrangement allows the device 100’ to be similar to common sunglasses in the attachment to the head, which may be particularly attractive to the consumer. Furthermore, the user may feel more comfortable wearing the device 100’ in a similar fashion to how they already wear sunglasses. In the forward portion 101 ’B, the device 100’ further comprises a nose bridge 130’ configured to allow the device to rest on the nose of a user in use. As can be seen in Figures 9 and 10, the nose bridge 130’ comprises a forward nose bridge portion 131’ and a rearward nose bridge portion 132’. In this connection, the forward nose bridge portion 131’ is part of the frame 10T and the rearward nose bridge portion 132’ is part of the insert 102’.

Further details of the insert 102’ are now provided with reference to Figures 11 to 16, wherein Figures 11 and 12 show external isometric views of the insert 102’, Figure 13 shows a view with hidden lines, Figure 14 shows a cross-sectional view through the insert and Figures 15 and 16 show front and plan views. The insert 102’ comprises a non-transparent screen 120’ which is positioned on the insert 102’ such that when the insert 102’ is attached to the frame 10T and the device 100' is worn by a user, the field of view of the user downwards is limited. The insert 102’ further comprises a first cheek rest 140’ and a second cheek rest 145’, configured to engage with the cheeks of a user in use.

As previously explained, the insert 102’ is releasably attachable to the frame 10T by a user. To provide a secure releasable attachment, the frame 10T and insert 102’ are provided with registered features. In this connection, as can be seen most clearly in Figure 12, the insert comprises four downwardly arranged tangs 150’, 15T, 152’, 153’. In the interest of clarity, only the first tang 150’ is now described, with the following description applying mutatis mutandis to the other three tangs 15T, 152’, 153’. The first tang 150’ comprises a flexible portion 150’A and a stiff portion 150’B. The stiff portion 150’B is arranged such that it can be gripped by a user to manipulate the flexible portion 150A’. The first tang 150’ is further provided with first 150’C and second 150’D apertures, the purpose of which will be explained.

It can be seen that in the preferred example presently described, the first 140’ and second 145’ cheek rest are each provided with a plurality of weakening ridges 140’A, 145’A provided to allow the cheek rests 140’, 145’ to resiliently move if required, thereby allowing the device 100’ to form a secure and tight fit against the user’s cheeks when in use. Referring now to Figures 17 to 20, further details of the frame 101’ are now provided. The frame 10T comprises an insert support structure 160’ comprising an upper surface 16T registered with a lower surface of the insert 102’ such that the insert 102’ can be brought into secure engagement with the frame 10T. In this connection, the insert support structure 160’ further comprises four apertures 170’, 17T, 172’, 173’ configured such that each tang 150’, 15T, 152’, 153’ of the insert 102’ may be inserted through a corresponding aperture 170’, 17T, 172’, 173’ when the device 100’ is assembled.

In the interest of clarity, further features associated with the apertures 170’, 17T, 172’, 173’ and the passage of the tangs 150’, 15T, 152’, 153’ through the apertures 170’, 17T, 172’, 173’ are now described with reference to the first tang 150’ and first aperture 170’, with the following description applying mutatis mutandis to the other three apertures 17T, 172’, 173’ and tangs 15T, 152’, 153’. Located below the first aperture 170’ there is provided first 170’A and second 170’B protrusions configured such that the user can pass the first tang 150’ through the aperture 170’ and pull the stiff portion 150’B thereby stretching the flexible portion 150’A such that the protrusions 170’A, 170’C are located within the apertures 150’C, 150’D, thereby releasably attaching the insert 102’ to the frame 10T.

As can be seen in Figures 12 and 14 the rearward nose bridge portion 132’ comprises first and second female attachment means 132’A, 132’B configured to receive first and second male attachment means 180’, 18T (visible in Figures 17, 18 and 19), thereby providing additional releasable attachment between the insert 102’ and the frame 10T.

Similarly to the previous example described with reference to Figures 1 to 8, the eyes of the user are above the upper surface 12T when the device 100’ is in use. When wearing the device 100’, the field of view downwards is severely restricted by the nontransparent screen 120’.

In the presently described example, the non-transparent screen 120’ comprises an outer surface comprising silicone, thereby providing a non-reflective surface such that when wearing the device 100’ the user does not experience reflections of sunlight from the surface of the non-transparent screen 120’. In some alternative examples, a non- reflective coating may be applied to the non-transparent screen 120’. Alternatively, or additionally, other non-reflective materials may be used. With the device 100’ attached to the user as described, the user is not able to glance downwards, therefore the inadvertent forwards and downwards motion of the head and so movement out of neutral alignment or further out of neutral alignment, is avoided, as previously explained.

In some examples, the top surface 12T may be curved to form a convex top surface, thereby extending the vertical field of view at the sides whilst keeping the vertical field of view more restricted near the centre. This provides a trade-off between blocking the field of view of the user and encouraging the user not to look downwards, as in most cases the user would look directly downwards to see the keyboard, horse, skis etc located directly downwards relative to the user, and inadvertently moving their head forwards and/or downwards whilst doing so.

In some examples, the top surface 12T may be curved to form a concave top surface, thereby restricting the vertical field of view at the sides even further than in the centre, which may be desirable if the activity to be performed also encourages the user to inadvertently look to the right or to the left.

In another alternative example not shown, the screen 120’ may be moveable relative to the nose bridge 130’, first cheek rest 140’ and second cheek rest 145’. In this connection, the screen 120’ may be adjustable between a plurality of angles to allow the user to adjust the restriction of the field of view created when wearing the device 100’. It will be appreciated that the device 100’ may be configured in any number of ways to allow the screen 120’ to move, or to allow the top surface 12T of the screen to dip to adjust the severity of the restriction of the vertical field of view. In this regard, the screen 120’ may be configured to move vertically up and down and/or to tilt. It is well within the abilities of the person skilled in the art to be able to configure the screen to be moveable and adjustable within the device. Some non-limiting examples (not shown) of such adjustment means are firstly, the screen 120’ being mounted on a pivot such that the screen 120’ can be adjusted through a plurality of angles.

It will be understood that the device 100’ may limit some of the field of view downwards beyond only in the vertical plane. In this regard, visual disturbances and/or distractions from downwards and to one side or the other are also blocked by the screen 120’. It will be understood that the screen 120’ may take various other shapes or forms depending on the specific use or application of the device 100’.

Referring now to Figures 21 and 22, there is shown further isometric views of the device 100’ shown in Figures 9 to 20 and now further comprising optional periphery view blocking means in the form of first 190’ and second 195’ side screens. Each of the first 190’ and second 195’ side screens are detachable from the frame 101’ in the presently described example. In alternative examples (not shown), the first 190’ and/or second 195’ side screens may be fixedly attached to the frame 101’ or integrally formed with the frame 101’. The side screens 190’, 195’ are provided to limit the peripheral vision of the user. In this connection, the side screens 190’, 195’ are provided to limit the horizontal field of view. When two side screens 190’, 195’ are used in combination with the previously described screen 120’, as in the presently described example, the total field of view of the user is severely restricted. It may be highly desirable in some situations to severely restrict the total field of view of the user to assist the user maintaining focus on a point of the area in front of the user, and eliminating distractions from objects, light, people etc. in the peripheral vision of the user.

Merely as an example used to explain the above-described limitation on the horizontal field of view, the device 10T comprising first 190’ and second 195’ side screens may be used in the following horse-riding training. A user of the device 100’ may be learning to ride a horse with fellow riders. The device 100’ without the side screens 190’, 195’ mounted on the frame 10T may be provided initially to limit the vertical field of view of the user downwards, thereby improving balance and reducing the tendency to glace downwards, as previously explained in detail. It may in some cases be sufficient to provide the device 10T without the side screens 190’, 195’ during this initial phase of training when the user is learning to ride alone. Once the user progresses to learn to ride in a group of horses, the user may become distracted by adjacent riders or horses. In such case, the side screens 190’, 195’ may be attached to the frame 10T to limit the horizontal field of view of the user. Alternatively, if required, only either the first side screen 190’ or the second side screen 195’ may be attached to the frame 10T in some cases.

Each of the first 190’ and the second 195’ side screens may be made of the same or similar materials to the screen 120’. Alternatively, one or more of the side screens 190’, 195’ and/or screen 120’ may be made of different materials.

In the presently described example, the side screens 190’, 195’ comprise an outer surface comprising silicone, thereby providing a non-reflective surface such that when wearing the device 100’ the user does not experience reflections of sunlight from the surface of the side screens 190’, 195’. In some alternative examples, a non-reflective coating may be applied to the side screens 190’, 195’. Alternatively, or additionally, other non-reflective materials may be used. It will also be understood that the dimensions now given are for a device 100’ for a typical adult performing horse riding and are provided as non-limiting examples of possible suitable dimensions. It will be understood that other adults or children may require devices 100’ with different dimensions. Furthermore, the performance of other sports or activities requiring a device 100’ may require the device 100’ to have different dimensions from those now provided.

In some examples the device 100’ may be configured to extend forwards from the eye of the user in use by between 49mm and 59mm, more preferably around 54mm.

It will be understood that in some examples (not shown) there may be provided a system where the device is provided with a wearable object. In such cases, the device 100 may be integrated into an existing wearable, such as for example riding ***s, skiing goggles, a riding helmet, a skiing helmet, a visor or a hat, to name just a few. In this connection, the straps 110, 115 may be redundant in these examples, as the screen 120 may be mounted directly on a component of the existing wearing. Alternatively, the screen 120 may be integrated with the existing wearable from the outset. In this connection, the screen 120 may be configured as part of the riding helmet, skiing helmet etc, rather than being a separate component mounted thereon.

The device 100 described finds application in the treatment and/or prevention of muscle and tendon damage. Particularly, the device 100 assists in ensuring that the neck muscles are not damaged by poor posture.

In some examples (not shown) the screen 120 may be translucent, which may provide a more pleasing environment to the user, rather than the screen entirely blocking light.

In some examples (not shown) the screen 120 may be partially transparent, in that the user can see through the screen 120 to some degree. In this connection, the user may be able to see essential features to assist in the activity being performed, without being able to see features which it may be desirable to glace at when performing the activity. This allows the safety of using the device 120 to be improved. In this connection, in some examples, the level of transparency of the screen may be adjustable by the user.

The device 100 may comprise silicone rubber or neoprene.

It will be apparent that the device may stop the user glancing downwards and thereby stop the inadvertent forwards and downwards motion of the head. If the user must see downwards, the only way to do so is to tilt the head out of the neutral position. This makes looking downwards particularly difficult and uncomfortable for the user, and therefore reminds and encourages the user not to look downwards.

The device stops the user from being able to glance downwards. Of course, the user may tilt their head completely forwards to bring the item, e.g. keyboard or horse, into view, but this is difficult and uncomfortable so would not be done by the user.

Since glancing downwards off-balances the user, the device stopping the user from glancing downwards may improve balance. Since glancing downwards also moves the head out of the neutral position, the device stopping the ability to glance downwards may improve the posture of the user.

It should be noted that the above-mentioned embodiments illustrate rather than limit the invention, and that those skilled in the art will be able to design many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. Use of the verb “comprise” and its conjugations does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those stated in a claim. The article “a” or “an” preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements.

The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

Claims

1. A device (100, 100’) for restricting the vertical field of view of a user, comprising: a screen (120, 120’); a face rest (130, 130’, 140, 140’, 145, 145’); and an attachment means (110, 110’, 115, 115’); wherein the face rest (130, 130’, 140, 140’, 145, 145’) is shaped to register with at least one feature of a human face; and the attachment means (110, 110’, 115, 115’) is configured, in use, to secure the device (100, 100’) to the head of a user such that the screen (120, 120’) limits the vertical field of view of the user downwards.

2. The device (100, 100’) according to claim 1, wherein the screen (120, 120’) is non-transparent.

3. The device (100, 100’) according to claim 1, wherein the screen (120, 120’) is partially transparent.

4. The device (100, 100’) according to any preceding claim, wherein the screen (120, 120’) is translucent.

5. The device (100, 100’) according to any preceding claim, wherein the screen (120, 120’) comprises a substantially flat upper surface (121 , 121’).

6. The device (100, 100’) according to any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the screen (120, 120’) comprises a convex upper surface (121 , 121’).

7. The device (100, 100’) according to any preceding claim, wherein the screen

(120, 120’) is moveable relative to the attachment means (110, 100’, 115, 115’), such that the user can move the screen (120, 120’) to adjust the restriction of the vertical field of view.

8. The device (100, 100’) according to claim 7, wherein the screen (120, 120’) is mounted on a pivot.

9. The device (100, 100’) according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the screen (120, 120’) is moveable between a plurality of pre-determined positions, corresponding to a plurality of restrictions of the vertical field of view.

10. The device (100, 100’) according to any preceding claim, wherein the face rest (130, 130’, 140, 140’, 145, 145’) comprises a nose bridge (130, 130’) configured, in use, to engage with the nose of a user.

11. The device (100, 100’) according to claim 10, wherein the nose bridge (130, 130’) is at an angle of between 15 and 30 degrees from the vertical, such that, in use, the nose bridge (130, 130’) provides comfortable engagement with the nose of a user.

12. The device (100, 100’) according to claim 11 , wherein the nose bridge (130, 130’) is at an angle of around 22.5 degrees from the vertical.

13. The device (100, 100’) according to any preceding claim, wherein the face rest (130, 130’, 140, 140’, 145, 145’) comprises a first cheek rest (140, 140’) and a second cheek rest (145, 145’), wherein the first cheek rest (140, 140’) and second cheek rest (145, 145’) are configured, in use, to engage with a first cheek and a second cheek of a user, respectively. The device (100, 100’) according to claim 13, wherein the first cheek rest (140, 140’) and second cheek rest (145, 145’) are each configured at an angle of between 20 and 40 degrees from the vertical, such that, in use, the first cheek rest (140, 140’) and second cheek rest (145, 145’) provide comfortable engagement with the cheeks of a user. The device (100, 100’) according to claim 14, wherein the first cheek rest (140, 140’) and second cheek rest (145, 145’) are each at an angle of around 30 degrees from the vertical. The device (100) according to any preceding claim, wherein the attachment means (110, 115) comprises at least one strap (110, 115) for securing the device (100) to the head of a user. The device (100) according to claim 16, wherein the at least one strap (110, 115) comprises a plurality of straps (110, 115). The device (100) according to claim 17, wherein the plurality of straps (110, 115) are each splayed into first (111 , 116) and second (112, 117) limbs, thereby providing a space between the first (111 , 116) and second (112, 117) limbs for locating an ear of a user in use, to attach the device (100) to the head of a user. 19. The device (100’) according to any of claims 1 to 16, wherein the attachment means (110’, 115’) comprises first and second stiff legs (110’, 115’).

20. The device (100’) according to claim 19, wherein the first and second stiff legs (110’, 115’) are elongate and substantially straight such that the device (100’) can be attached to the head of a user wearing a helmet.

21. The device (100’) according to any preceding claim, comprising a frame (10T) and an insert (102’), wherein the frame (10T) and insert (102’) are releasably attachable in use, wherein the insert (102’) comprises the screen (120’) and face rest (130’, 140’, 145’) and the frame (10T) comprises the attachment means (110’, 115’).

22. A system for arranging a device (100, 100’) to restrict the vertical field of view of a user, the system comprising: a wearable object; and the device (100, 100’) comprising a screen (120, 120’); wherein the wearable object comprises an attachment means configured to releasably secure the wearable object to the head of a user; the device (100, 100’) is attachable to the wearable object via an interface configured such that, in use, when the device (100, 100’) is attached to the wearable object and the wearable object is attached to a user, the screen (120, 120’) is arranged to limit the vertical field of view of the user downwards.

23. The system according to claim 22, wherein the screen (120, 120’) is transparent or partially transparent.

24. The system according to claim 22 or 23, wherein the wearable object is a helmet or riding ***s or skiing goggles or a riding helmet or a skiing helmet or a visor or a hat.

25. A helmet configured to restrict the vertical field of view of a user, the helmet comprising a screen (120, 120’) configured such that when the helmet is worn by a user, the screen (120, 120’) limits the vertical field of view of the user.

26. The helmet of claim 25, wherein the screen (120, 120’) is transparent or partially transparent.

27. A method of improving balance when performing a sport, the method comprising the steps of: a. providing a device (100, 100’) for restricting the vertical field of view of a user according to any of claims 1 to 21 ; b. securing the device (100, 100’) to the head of the user using the attachment means (110, 110’, 115, 115’) such that the screen (120, 120’) of the device (100, 100’) limits the vertical field of view of the user downwards.

28. The method according to claim 27, where the step of securing the device (100, 100’) to the head of a user includes the step of: resting the face rest (130, 130’, 140, 140’, 145, 145’) on at least one feature of the face of the user.