3D Space Interface Apparatus for Immersive Virtual Object Manipulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional user interfaces, such as those using mice and touch screens, are limited to two-dimensional input and output, failing to provide a realistic sensation of manipulating three-dimensional virtual objects, as they primarily detect 2D interactions rather than true 3D movements and contacts.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional space interface apparatus and method that utilizes a 3D display unit, a sensing unit (including cameras and motion sensors), and an interface unit to detect user movements and contacts within a 3D space, allowing for the generation of reactions such as transformations, rotations, and selections of virtual objects, and providing a sensation of contact through ultrasonic waves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional mouse or touch screen is used for user input, then the device complexity is low and ease of operation is maintained, but the measurement precision of 3D space interaction is insufficient and only 2D input is supported
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2D touch screen interaction to 3D space interaction by introducing depth cameras and motion sensors that detect three-dimensional positions and movements. The system creates a 3D coordinate system that maps user gestures in physical space to virtual object manipulations, enabling genuine 3D interaction rather than flat 2D input.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a 3D display apparatus as an intermediary between the user and the information processing system. This intermediary includes depth sensing cameras and motion sensors that capture 3D spatial information, process it through coordinate transformation, and translate it into meaningful commands for virtual object manipulation, thereby bridging the gap between physical gestures and digital interactions.
2Ease of operation
If a screen touch technique is used to manipulate 3D objects, then ease of operation is improved by allowing direct hand manipulation, but the measurement precision of 3D contact sensation is insufficient and only provides 2D touch feedback
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enhances screen touch technique by adding depth perception through z-coordinate detection. Instead of merely detecting 2D touch points on the screen surface, the system captures three-dimensional hand positions and movement trajectories, enabling users to manipulate 3D virtual objects with realistic spatial awareness and contact sensation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical touch feedback with optical sensing mechanisms. Depth cameras and motion sensors optically detect hand positions and gestures in 3D space, substituting physical contact sensors with non-contact optical fields that can perceive spatial relationships and simulate tactile feedback through visual and haptic interfaces.
3Ease of operation
If ultrasonic waves are used to provide contact sensation, then the user experience is enhanced by providing tactile feedback, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic ultrasonic vibrations at specific frequencies to generate tactile feedback. By using pulsed or oscillating ultrasonic waves rather than continuous emission, the system provides intermittent tactile sensations that coincide with interaction moments, reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining effective feedback during critical interaction periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts ultrasonic wave parameters such as frequency, amplitude, and duration based on interaction context. During active manipulation, higher intensity ultrasonic feedback is provided, while during idle periods, the system reduces or suspends ultrasonic emission, optimizing energy usage according to actual interaction needs.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables direct manipulation and interaction with 3D virtual objects by accurately sensing and reacting to user movements and contacts, enhancing the user experience by providing a more immersive and realistic interface.
Implementation Method 1
a sensing unit to generate a sensing signal for sensing a position and a movement of a user and for sensing a position and a movement of a manipulation object manipulating the 3D virtual object
Implementation Method 2
providing a sensation of contact through ultrasonic waves
Data Source
AI summary
A three-dimensional (3D) space interface apparatus and method are provided. The 3D space interface apparatus provides an interface in which a user may directly touch and transform a 3D virtual object of a 3D space, which is shown in various ways depending on a position of the user. The 3D space interface apparatus may provide for manipulation of the 3D virtual object by the user using a sensing signal that senses the position and movement of a manipulation object the user. Specifically, an interface unit of the apparatus verifies, using the sensing signal, whether a predetermined movement of the manipulation object has occurred or whether a contact between the 3D virtual object and the manipulation object has been made, and generates a predetermined reaction corresponding to the predetermined movement or the contact.