3D Virtual Object Interaction Zones for Positional Uncertainty
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing user interfaces are inadequate for interacting with three-dimensional systems, lacking a simple and efficient method to engage with three-dimensional interfaces.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for generating a three-dimensional interface with virtual objects and interaction zones, where stimuli applied to these zones trigger responses, allowing interaction without precise alignment, and enabling multiple responses based on zone engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a two-dimensional interface is used for interaction, then the interface design is simple and functional, but it cannot effectively support three-dimensional systems and virtual objects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional display interfaces to three-dimensional spatial interfaces by projecting virtual objects and interaction zones into 3D space. The system uses depth information, spatial coordinates, and volumetric interaction zones to enable natural hand-based interactions with virtual objects suspended in 3D space above the display surface, thereby adapting the interface to support three-dimensional systems while maintaining manageable complexity through structured zone definitions.
2Measurement precision
If precise alignment is required for object interaction, then the interaction accuracy is high, but the ease of operation decreases due to positioning difficulty
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the interaction space into distinct interaction zones surrounding each virtual object. Each zone is defined by spatial boundaries and depth thresholds, allowing the system to detect when a user's hand enters or contacts a specific zone. This segmentation enables accurate object identification and interaction triggering without requiring precise hand positioning, as long as the hand enters the predefined zone boundaries.
Solution Approach 2:
The interaction zone acts as an intermediary between the user's hand and the virtual object. Instead of requiring direct contact or precise alignment with the object itself, the system uses the interaction zone as a mediator that detects hand presence and triggers appropriate responses. This intermediary layer simplifies positioning requirements while maintaining interaction accuracy through zone-based detection.
3Ease of operation
If the interaction zone is defined to compensate for positional uncertainty, then the ease of operation improves, but the precision of interaction may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different interaction zone sizes and thresholds based on local requirements for each virtual object. Critical objects or those requiring precise interaction have smaller, more tightly defined interaction zones, while less critical objects have larger zones for easier interaction. The system dynamically adjusts zone parameters based on object importance, interaction type, and contextual factors, thereby maintaining precision where needed while providing flexibility where appropriate.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, system, apparatus, and/or device for interacting with a three dimensional interface. The method, system, apparatus, and/or device may include: generating a zone associated with a virtual object, wherein the zone includes a first space approximate to at least a portion of the object that is distinct from a second space occupied by the object; determine an uncertainty level of a sensor to identify an input in the zone; in response to the uncertainty level exceeding a first level, increasing a size of the zone, wherein the increased size of the zone increases a precision level of the sensor; and in response to the uncertainty level being below a second level, decreasing the size of the zone, wherein the decreased size of the zone decreases the precision level of the sensor.