In-Game Audio Source Positioning via Visual Trajectory Cues
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing video game environments struggle to accurately render audio communications, making it difficult for users to determine the source and location of audio within the game environment, especially when the source is not in line of sight.
Innovation Solution
The video game application employs a hybrid audio/video approach by rendering visual cues to users about the positions of avatars associated with other users who are communicating, using on-screen graphics that point along a trajectory between the users to indicate the source of audio communications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If audio communication is enabled between users in video game environments, then user interaction and communication capability are improved, but the complexity of accurately rendering audio source position and location increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces visual cues as an intermediary element to bridge audio communication and spatial awareness. Instead of attempting to render complex audio spatialization directly, the system uses visual indicators (such as icons or markers) that appear at avatar positions to mediate the communication experience, simplifying the audio rendering while maintaining effective user interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a simplified visual representation (copy) of the audio communication source - avatars are represented by visual icons or markers on the game display. This visual copy provides location information without requiring complex audio spatial rendering, allowing users to determine source positions through familiar visual elements rather than complex acoustic cues.
2Adaptability or versatility
If objects are added to the video game environment to create boundaries and obstacles, then the realism and depth of the environment are improved, but the ability to see and track avatar positions is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs visual cues with distinct visual characteristics (such as colored icons or markers) that stand out against the game environment background. These color-coded or visually distinct indicators maintain the realism of objects blocking view while providing clear detection of avatar positions through high-contrast visual elements that can be easily identified regardless of occlusion.
Solution Approach 2:
Visual cues act as intermediaries that convey avatar position information around obstacles. When objects block the direct view of avatars, the visual cues (icons, markers, or indicators) serve as mediators that transmit location information, allowing players to detect and track avatar positions despite environmental occlusions that maintain realism.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for facilitating intra-game communication in video game environments featuring first-person or third-person perspectives by generating an on-screen graphic that includes the communication and a pointer towards a location of another user within the video game environment.