Vest-Type Weight Redistribution for Long-Term Head-Mounted Display Use

HMD Physical Strain Weight Redistribution

Problem: Immersive HMDs increase physical burden, reducing mobility and long-term usability.

Solution: A vest-based system that redistributes HMD weight to the torso, reducing strain while maintaining natural head movement.

Project cover image Project cover image

Background

HMDs are evolving in two directions

  • Fully immersive → high presence (VR, Vision Pro)
  • See-through → everyday usability (AR glasses)
  • Higher immersion requires more hardware
Fully immersive vs see-through HMD

Fig. 1. Fully immersive vs see-through HMD

The paradox of higher immersion

  • More hardware → increased weight
  • Increased weight → greater physical burden
  • Physical burden → reduced immersion
Immersive HMD paradox

Fig. 2. Immersive HMD paradox

Physical burden limits user experience

  • Facial and neck (cervical) strain
  • Restricted head movement
  • Reduced long-term usability → decreased immersion
Physical burden of immersive HMD

Fig. 3. Physical burden of immersive HMD

" Prolonged HMD use → Cervical & facial strain → Reduced immersion "

Goal

" Sustain immersion by reducing physical strain and preserving mobility "

Solutions

Wire + Vest Structure (Weight Redistribution)

Reduces cervical and facial strain

HMD weight redistribution method

Fig. 4. HMD weight redistribution method

  • ① Wire support: lifting the HMD → reducing facial pressure
  • ② Vest frame: transferring load to the shoulders and torso → reducing neck strain
  • ③ Spring linkage: following natural neck motion → minimizing interference

Universal Structure (Mobility Preservation)

Preserves natural movement and usability

Internal structure and adjustable frame

Fig. 5. Internal structure and adjustable frame

  • ① Handles: enabling easy portability
  • ② Thoracic plates: providing upper–mid back support
  • ③ Adjustable frame (200–600 mm): adapting to different body sizes

Results

User Scenario

  • Wear the vest
  • Adjust the support structure to fit body size
  • Unfold and position the VR support
  • Put on the HMD
User scenario User scenario User scenario User scenario

Fig. 6. User scenario

Wearing and using the HMD system Wearing and using the HMD system

Fig. 7. Using the HMD system

Evaluation

① Usability (SUS)

  • Moderate usability
  • Easy to learn and use
  • Some complexity remains
SUS results

Fig. 8. SUS results

② Perceived Performance

  • Reduced neck and shoulder fatigue
  • Decreased perceived device weight
  • Improved long-term wearability
Perceived performance results

Fig. 9. Perceived performance results

" Reduced neck and shoulder fatigue and improved perceived wearability. "