Avatar-Based Virtual Space Interface for Impromptu Group Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication interfaces, such as chat and videoconference software, are not user-friendly, lack clarity during group discussions, and do not facilitate easy, impromptu interactions with unknown participants, requiring installation on client terminals and being complex and expensive.
Innovation Solution
A communications interface featuring a virtual space and graphical avatars that allow participants to control movements, automatically setting up discussion channels when avatars are close, enabling text-based chat and videoconferencing in a simple and intuitive manner, with minimal memory and computing power usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If chat software is used for communication, then text-based dialogue is enabled, but the interface becomes unclear and unsatisfactory for group discussions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional 2D chat interfaces to a 3D virtual environment where users interact through graphical avatars. This dimensional change allows multiple participants to be spatially arranged, enabling clear visualization of group discussions and improving interface clarity while maintaining ease of operation through intuitive avatar-based interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the physical interaction environment where users can see and interact with graphical representations (avatars) of themselves and others. This copying approach simplifies group discussion by providing visual cues about participant positions and interactions, making the interface more intuitive and easier to use.
2Adaptability or versatility
If videoconference software is used for remote communication, then audio-video dialogue is enabled, but the software becomes complex and expensive to use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal virtual environment that can accommodate multiple communication modes (text chat, audio, video) within a single 3D space. Users can switch between different communication types without changing applications or dealing with complex software configurations, thereby reducing complexity while maintaining versatile communication capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges chat, audio, and video communication functions into a unified 3D virtual environment. Instead of requiring separate software applications for different communication types, all modes are integrated into the avatar-based interface, simplifying the user experience and reducing software complexity.
3Ease of operation
If traditional chat software is used, then installation on client terminals is required, but this creates complications and reduces ease of use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a web-based intermediary layer that allows users to access the virtual environment through a browser without installing client software. This intermediary approach eliminates deployment complications while maintaining ease of access, as users can simply navigate to a web URL to enter the 3D communication space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical installation process (downloading and installing client software) with a web-based access model. Instead of requiring local software installation, the system uses browser-based rendering and web technologies to provide the same virtual environment experience, thereby eliminating deployment complexity while preserving ease of access.
4Adaptability or versatility
If 3D virtual worlds are used for communication, then realistic environment is provided, but long learning time is required making it suitable only for initiated users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing simplified, intuitive controls for specific avatar actions while maintaining the overall 3D environment. Instead of requiring users to learn complex 3D navigation and interaction systems, the interface provides context-sensitive controls and intuitive gestures for common communication tasks, reducing the learning curve while preserving environmental realism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service through automatic avatar positioning, context-aware interaction suggestions, and intuitive interface elements that adapt to user behavior. The system automatically handles complex spatial relationships and interaction logic, allowing users to focus on communication rather than learning system operations, thereby reducing the learning curve while maintaining a realistic 3D environment.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a communications interface for communications between participants, said interface including a virtual space (1) and graphical avatars (2, 3) that firstly represent respective ones of said participants and secondly are designed to move in said virtual space (1), said communications interface also including control means for controlling the movement of each graphical avatar, said communications interface being characterized in that it is designed to set up a discussion channel automatically between two of said participants when either the distance (d) between the two graphical avatars (2, 3) representing respective ones of said two participants is less than or equal to a predetermined first value (D1), or the distances between a graphical object and each of the two graphical avatars (2, 3) are less than or equal to a second predetermined value.Communications interfaces.