3D User Interface Surface Curvature Distortion
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Solution Overview
Problem
GUIs that present objects on a surface of a three-dimensional structure suffer from distortion issues, such as pin-cushioning, when projected onto a two-dimensional display, leading to discomfort and nausea for users.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system that generates a user interface by creating a model of a surface with circular symmetry, mapping elements to this surface, and positioning a virtual camera exterior to the model to reduce distortion and improve the accuracy of the perceived curvature.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If objects are presented on a curved interior surface of a three-dimensional structure, then more objects can be displayed on screen and navigation becomes more intuitive, but distortion effects such as pin-cushioning occur and cause user discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The surface is divided into multiple zones with different curvature characteristics. The equatorial region has lower curvature while the polar regions have higher curvature, allowing different parts of the display to have different distortion characteristics optimized for their specific functions
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the three-dimensional surface are assigned different geometric properties. The equatorial belt has a specific curvature radius while the polar caps have different curvature radii, creating local variations in distortion characteristics to optimize both display capacity and minimize harmful distortion effects
2Quantity of substance
If a conventional spherical surface is used, then the display can accommodate more objects, but the curvature of horizontal lines becomes distorted except in a narrow equator region
Solution Approach 1:
The surface geometry is differentiated by region: the equatorial belt has one curvature characteristic optimized for horizontal line accuracy, while the polar caps have different curvature characteristics, allowing each region to perform its specific function optimally
Solution Approach 2:
The spherical surface is segmented into an equatorial belt and two polar caps, each with distinct curvature properties. This segmentation allows the equatorial region to maintain straight horizontal lines while the polar regions can accommodate additional objects with acceptable distortion
3Area of stationary object
If the virtual camera is positioned interior to the model, then the field of view can be maximized, but perspective distortion increases and causes discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of positioning the virtual camera inside the three-dimensional structure to maximize field of view, the camera is positioned outside the structure. This inverted approach allows the interior surface to be rendered with appropriate perspective distortion that matches human visual perception, reducing discomfort while still providing comprehensive coverage
Data Source
AI summary
A method of generating a user interface includes obtaining input data indicative of respective positions of a plurality of elements within an input plane and generating a model of a surface of a three-dimensional structure. The surface has circular symmetry and includes two curved polar caps and a curved equatorial belt, wherein a curvature of each of the polar caps is greater than a curvature of the equatorial belt. The method includes mapping the elements to respective positions on the model, and determining a position and orientation of a virtual camera, wherein the determined position of the virtual camera is exterior to the model. The method includes determining a field of view of the virtual camera containing a concave interior portion of the model, and rendering a projection of the model corresponding to the determined field of view and comprising elements mapped to positions on the concave interior portion.