AR Rotational Interface Using IMU Tilt for IoT Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing technologies lack efficient methods for users to interact with and control IoT devices using augmented reality (AR) interfaces on portable electronic devices, particularly through intuitive gestures and orientations.

Innovation Solution

A system utilizing the inertial measurement unit (IMU) of a mobile device to enable users to control IoT devices by presenting a virtual rotational interface on the device's display, allowing control of features like volume, brightness, or color hue through tilting or rotating the device.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional control methods for IoT devices are used, then device functionality is maintained, but user interaction efficiency and intuitiveness deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser interaction efficiencyVSAvoidtime for device control
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical input methods (buttons, switches, keyboards) with motion-based control using the device's inertial measurement unit (IMU). Users tilt or rotate the mobile device in physical space to control IoT devices, substituting manual button pressing with intuitive gestural movements. This is implemented through the IMU controller that detects device orientation and translates it into control signals for IoT devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an augmented reality interface as an intermediary between the user and the IoT device control system. The AR display presents virtual control elements overlaid on the real-world view, allowing users to interact with virtual buttons, sliders, or other control mechanisms that respond to physical device movements. This intermediary layer enhances intuitiveness by providing visual feedback and contextual information during the control process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If simple control interfaces are used, then ease of operation is improved, but adaptability to different control scenarios deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinterface simplicityVSAvoidcontrol scenario flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic control interface that adapts to different control scenarios through the AR display. The virtual interface elements can change based on the detected device orientation, the type of IoT device being controlled, and the current operational context. For example, the AR interface may present different control options or adjust parameter ranges based on what the user is viewing in the real world, providing both simplicity and versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal control system that can manage multiple types of IoT devices through a single motion-based interface. The same physical gestures (tilting, rotating) can control different device parameters (brightness, volume, temperature) depending on which IoT device is selected or detected. The system provides a unified control experience across diverse device types while maintaining the ability to handle specific device requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 intuitive and efficient control of IoT devices using AR interfaces, enhancing user interaction and simplifying the management of connected devices through immersive and interactive virtual interfaces.

Implementation Method 1

the inertial measurement unit (IMU) of a mobile device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInertial measurement:

Data Source

PatentUS20250355486A1Virtual ar interfaces for controlling IoT devices using mobile device orientation sensors
Publication Date: 2025.11.20 SNAP INC
  • US20250355486A1 patent drawing
  • US20250355486A1 patent drawing
  • US20250355486A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Described are virtual AR interfaces for generating a virtual rotational interface for the purpose of controlling connected IoT devices using the inertial measurement unit (IMU) of a portable electronic device. The IMU control application enables a user of a portable electronic device to activate a virtual rotational interface overlay on a display and adjust a feature of a connected IoT product by rotating a portable electronic device. The device IMU moves a slider on the virtual rotational interface. The IMU control application sends a control signal to the IoT product which executes an action in accordance with the slider position. The virtual rotational interface is presented on the display as a virtual object in an AR environment. The IMU control application detects the device orientation (in the physical environment) and in response presents a corresponding slider element on the virtual rotational interface (in the AR environment).