AR Alignment Features for Real-Object Overlay
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for aligning real and virtual objects in augmented and virtual reality environments provide limited assistance to users, often requiring repetitive repositioning and viewpoint changes, leading to suboptimal alignment accuracy and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A method that visualizes alignment features superimposed on or replacing the virtual object in the field of view, which complement the shape and surface patterns of the real object, allowing for improved guidance and confirmation of correct alignment with minimal occlusion, using techniques such as virtual textures and shapes that form recognizable patterns when aligned.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If virtual objects are visualized in augmented reality to guide alignment, then alignment guidance is provided, but occlusion of the real object occurs reducing visibility
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment guidance system is segmented into multiple independent alignment features (alignment patterns, alignment shapes, alignment lines) that can be selectively displayed on different portions of the virtual object. This allows the system to provide comprehensive alignment guidance while minimizing occlusion of the real object by only displaying features where necessary and using minimal visual elements.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of displaying complete virtual replicas of objects that would cause significant occlusion, the system uses simplified alignment features (patterns, shapes, lines) that copy only the essential alignment information. These minimal representations provide sufficient guidance for alignment while maintaining high visibility of the real object.
2Measurement precision
If alignment features are visualized with high detail to improve accuracy, then alignment precision improves, but visual complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment guidance is divided into distinct, simple alignment features (patterns, shapes, lines) rather than using complex detailed models. Each feature is optimized for its specific alignment function, providing precise guidance while keeping individual elements simple and the overall system visually manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
Different alignment features are applied to different portions of the virtual object based on local requirements. Complex alignment patterns are used where high precision is needed, while simpler features are used where only rough alignment is required, optimizing the balance between precision and visual complexity.
3Measurement precision
If users repeatedly reposition and change viewpoint to achieve alignment, then alignment accuracy can be improved, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides real-time visual feedback through alignment features that change appearance based on the relative position and orientation of the real and virtual objects. This feedback guides users through the alignment process, indicating when alignment is achieved and reducing the need for repeated repositioning and viewpoint changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment features are designed to provide intuitive guidance that enables users to perform preliminary alignment actions more effectively. By presenting alignment information in an easily interpretable format, the system helps users quickly establish rough alignment before fine-tuning, reducing overall alignment time.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for aligning the positions and orientations of a real object and a virtual object in real space, the virtual object corresponding to a virtual replica of the real object, the method comprising visualizing at least one alignment feature superimposed on or replacing a representation of the virtual object in a field of view containing the real object, wherein the alignment feature is indicative of a position and orientation of the virtual object in real space, and wherein the at least one alignment feature complements a shape and/or surface pattern of the real object, such that the alignment feature and the real object form a composite object with complementing patterns and/or shapes in the field of view, when the real object and the virtual object are aligned.