AR Toy Construction Markers for Physical-Virtual Interaction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing toy construction systems lack integration of physical models with virtual reality, making it difficult for young children to combine physical play with computer-generated experiences without requiring programming knowledge, and they do not enhance educational and play value effectively.
Innovation Solution
A toy construction system that includes marker construction elements with coupling means for interconnecting with other elements, allowing image processing systems to detect and generate computer-generated images for augmented reality, enabling users to create AR-enabled models and interact with them through the physical construction elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If physical construction models are enhanced with programmable processors and sensors to enable computer interaction, then the play value and interactivity are improved, but the device complexity and difficulty of operation increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the AR marker functionality from complex programmable processors and implements it through simple visual markers that can be attached to construction elements. This removes the complexity of embedded computing while maintaining interactivity through image recognition and augmented reality overlays.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces AR markers as intermediary elements between the physical construction model and the computer system. These markers serve as a simple interface that translates physical model states into detectable signals for the computer, eliminating the need for complex direct electronic interfaces.
2Adaptability or versatility
If augmented reality markers are integrated into toy construction elements to enable AR experiences, then the play value is enhanced, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the AR functionality into separate marker elements that can be independently manufactured and attached to construction elements. This allows the main construction elements to be manufactured using standard processes, while AR functionality is added through simple, pre-fabricated marker components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs AR markers that can be attached to various types of construction elements, making the AR functionality universal across different model configurations. The same marker design can be used on blocks, figures, or other elements, simplifying manufacturing by creating a single standardized component.
3Adaptability or versatility
If interface construction elements are added to enable electrical coupling with computers, then the programming capability is improved, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate for young children
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex electrical interface systems with an optical recognition system using AR markers. Instead of requiring children to connect wires or use keyboards, the system uses image capture and pattern recognition to automatically detect and interpret the physical model configuration, making operation intuitive and accessible.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the system to automatically detect and interpret the construction model through visual recognition of AR markers, eliminating the need for manual programming input. The system self-determines the model's state and generates appropriate AR responses without requiring user programming knowledge.
Data Source
AI summary
A toy construction system comprising toy construction elements, comprising coupling means for releasably interconnecting the toy construction elements, one or more marker construction elements comprising such coupling means and each having a visual appearance recognizable by an image processing means, and a data processing system adapted to process a captured image of a toy construction model constructed from the toy construction elements to detect at least a presence of at least one of the marker construction elements within the captured image, and responsive to the detected marker construction element, generate a computer-generated image, wherein the marker construction element comprises a visually detectable feature and a movable element movable between a first and a second position, wherein the movable element, when positioned in the first position, causes the visually detectable feature to be visible and, when positioned in the second position, causes the visually detectable feature to be obstructed from view.