Body Size Estimation Using Dynamic Posture Data

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing body size estimation methods require users to take a T-pose beforehand, limiting flexibility and accuracy in estimating body size during interactive systems like gaming.

Innovation Solution

A body size estimation apparatus and method that acquires position data from multiple body parts, estimates body size using head and foot positions, and updates stored data dynamically, allowing for accurate size estimation without the need for a T-pose, using a combination of sensors and a computer system to process and update body size data in real-time.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the user takes a T-pose in advance to estimate body size, then the measurement precision is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebody size measurement precisionVSAvoidoperation convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary body size estimation using an average body size model before the user actually performs the T-pose. This preliminary estimation allows the system to prepare initial body size data, which is then refined when the user performs the T-pose, reducing the burden on the user while maintaining measurement accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the estimation parameters dynamically based on the user's actual posture during T-pose performance. Instead of requiring perfect T-pose alignment, the system adjusts estimation parameters to accommodate natural posture variations, maintaining measurement precision while improving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If the system uses fixed body size data, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebody size adaptabilityVSAvoiddata management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements dynamic body size data that can be updated during operation. The body size data is not fixed but can be adjusted based on actual measurements from user postures, allowing the system to adapt to different users and scenarios while managing complexity through structured data updates.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system automatically updates body size data based on user performance without requiring manual intervention or complex configuration. The self-service mechanism allows the system to adapt to individual users automatically, improving adaptability while keeping the interface simple for users.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Measurement precision

If the system requires T-pose calibration, then the measurement precision is improved, but the loss of time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebody size measurement precisionVSAvoidcalibration time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system accepts partial T-pose performance rather than requiring complete and perfect T-pose execution. This partial action approach allows the system to obtain sufficient measurement data without requiring the user to spend excessive time achieving perfect pose alignment, reducing calibration time while maintaining acceptable measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary estimation using average body size before actual T-pose calibration, allowing the calibration process to focus only on adjusting for individual variations rather than establishing complete body size parameters from scratch, thereby reducing the time required for calibration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11589778B2Body size estimation apparatus, body size estimation method, and program
Publication Date: 2023.02.28 SONY INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT LLC
  • US11589778B2 patent drawing
  • US11589778B2 patent drawing
  • US11589778B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided are a body size estimation apparatus, a body size estimation method, and a program that enable the estimation of the body size of a user even when the user has not taken a T-pose in advance. A body size data storage unit (50) stores body size data indicating a body size of a user. A posture data acquisition unit (52) acquires position data indicating positions of a plurality of body parts away from each other of the user. A body size estimation unit (54) estimates a body size of the user based on positions of two or more body parts indicated by the position data. A body size update unit (56) updates, in a case where the estimated body size is larger than the body size indicated by the body size data stored in the body size data storage unit (50), the body size indicated by the body size data to the estimated body size.