Camera-Enhanced Mobile Device for 3D Object Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 2D input devices, such as computer mice, are not suitable for controlling physical objects in 3D space, and 6 Degree of Freedom (DOF) input devices are cumbersome for natural interaction with onsite physical objects due to the need for specific hardware setups and limited deployment due to transmitter-receiver pair requirements.
Innovation Solution
A camera-enhanced mobile device is used to capture images and identify objects based on a feature database, enabling control actions without the need for additional hardware like IR transmitters or laser pointers, allowing for simple point-and-capture operations to manipulate objects in 3D space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a 6 DOF input device is used for physical object control, then control capability in 3D space is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to the need for specifically designed projection systems and complex hardware setups
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical 6 DOF input devices with a camera-based optical system. The camera captures images of physical objects, and computer vision algorithms automatically determine 3D position and orientation, substituting mechanical movement with optical detection and computational processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visual copy of the physical object through camera imaging. Instead of directly manipulating physical objects with complex devices, the system captures images and uses image processing to create a virtual representation that can be controlled through simpler 2D interface interactions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed cameras are installed in the controlled environment for video mapping, then object control capability is improved, but deployment complexity and cost increase due to requiring property owners to set up hardware and software
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the mobile device itself the camera platform, giving it multi-functionality. The device serves both as the control interface and as the imaging sensor, eliminating the need for separate fixed camera installations in the controlled environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile device performs all functions independently - capturing images, processing visual data, and executing control commands. The system is self-sufficient and does not require external fixed camera infrastructure or complex environmental setup.
3Measurement precision
If IR transmitters and receivers are used for directional control, then control precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to the requirement for transmitter-receiver pairs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the identification function from complex transmitter-receiver systems and implements it through simple camera imaging. Object features are extracted directly from captured images, eliminating the need for separate IR transmitters and receivers.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses visual copying through camera imaging to identify and control objects. Instead of requiring physical IR transmitters attached to objects, the camera captures visual information that serves as a digital copy for identification and control purposes.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention enable an image based controller to control and manipulate objects with simple point-and-capture operations via images captured by a camera enhanced mobile device. Powered by this technology, a user is able to complete many complicated control tasks via guided control of objects without utilizing laser pointers, IR transmitters, mini-projectors, or bar code tagging and/or customized wall paper are not needed for the environment control. This description is not intended to be a complete description of, or limit the scope of, the invention. Other features, aspects, and objects of the invention can be obtained from a review of the specification, the figures, and the claims.