Camera-Based Pointer Control for Multi-Device Remote Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remote control systems require multiple devices and complex alignment procedures, limiting flexibility and convenience, especially when controlling multiple devices without a direct line of sight or in complex environments.
Innovation Solution
A method that uses a multi-dimensional figure space linked to real space, allowing a single pointer to control multiple objects by determining the position and orientation of the pointer and selecting objects based on geometric figures in the figure space, enabling intuitive control without direct visual contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional remote controls use infrared signals for direct communication, then control commands can be sent to devices, but the range is limited and direct line of sight is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a camera as an intermediary device that captures images of devices in the environment. Instead of direct infrared communication requiring line of sight, the camera records visual information about devices, and this information is processed to enable control. The camera acts as a mediator between the user and the target device, allowing control without direct line of sight and extending the effective range beyond infrared limitations.
2Ease of operation
If multiple devices each have their own remote control, then each device can be controlled independently, but a large number of remote controls are necessary and users must learn multiple operating concepts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal remote control system where a single device (the camera-based controller) can control multiple different electronic devices. Instead of requiring separate remote controls for each device, the system uses image recognition to identify various devices and then routes appropriate control commands. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for multiple specialized remotes and unifies the operating concept across all devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of multiple individual remote controls into a single unified system. By combining device identification, command selection, and control execution into one integrated camera-based controller, the system eliminates the proliferation of separate remote controls. The merging process consolidates what would otherwise require multiple discrete devices into a single multi-capable controller.
3Measurement precision
If remote controls are aligned with device coordinates stored in control unit, then device selection can be determined, but alignment precision is difficult for small, distant or hidden devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a visual copy or representation of the physical environment through camera imaging. Instead of relying on precise manual alignment with physical devices that may be small, distant, or hidden, the system captures an image copy of the environment and processes this visual data to identify and select target devices. This copying approach transforms the alignment problem into an image processing problem, making device selection more accurate and easier even for devices that are difficult to physically align with.
Data Source
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AI summary
In a method for controlling objects, objects that are to be controlled are arranged in real space. Said real space is linked to a multi-dimensional figure space by a linkage specification. Figures in the figure space are associated with the objects of the real space that are to be controlled by an allocation specification. Said method consists of the following steps; the position is located and a pointer is directed into real space, the position is determined and a selected figure associated with the pointer is directed into the figure space using the position and direction of the pointer in the real space and the linkage specification between the real space and the figure space, the figures of the figure space that are separated from the selected figure are determined, a figure that is separated from the selected figure is selected, and the object in the real space that is associated with the selected figure in the figure space is controlled.