Controller Apparatus Dual-State Operation for HMD Usability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Users of controller apparatuses, especially those used with head-mounted displays, often struggle to visually recognize their surroundings due to the diversity of operation methods and mounting configurations, leading to difficulties in using the controllers effectively in various situations.

Innovation Solution

An information processing system comprising a controller apparatus that can operate in two states: a first state for receiving user operations and transmitting information, and a second state for executing processes based on user contact states, utilizing sensors to detect finger positions and movements, and a vibration device to assist in locating the controller, ensuring proper hand positioning and operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a controller apparatus is used with a head mounted display, then the user can experience immersive gaming, but the user cannot visually recognize the surrounding situations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegaming experienceVSAvoidvisual recognition of surroundings
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary communication mechanism between the controller and the user's brain. The controller transmits operation information to the HMD, which then displays visual feedback or provides spatial audio cues that help the user understand their surroundings and controller position without removing the HMD, thus resolving the isolation caused by immersive display usage

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Device complexity

If the controller apparatus operates in a single state for receiving user operations, then the operation transmission function is simple, but the controller cannot provide tactile feedback for locating and positioning

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation transmission functionVSAvoidtactile feedback for locating
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The controller is designed to dynamically switch between multiple operational states based on user needs. It transitions from a simple operation-receiving state to a multi-functional state that includes executing processes, providing tactile feedback through vibration, and offering visual guidance through the HMD, thereby enhancing ease of operation without permanently increasing device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the controller detects user contact state and provides tactile feedback through vibration. This feedback loop helps users locate and position the controller correctly by sensing their own hand movements and receiving corresponding vibrations, significantly improving ease of operation while maintaining relatively simple device architecture

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS20240382829A1Information processing system, controller apparatus, control method therefor, and program
Publication Date: 2024.11.21 SONY INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT LLC
  • US20240382829A1 patent drawing
  • US20240382829A1 patent drawing
  • US20240382829A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An information processing system includes a controller apparatus that is operated by a user in a contact manner and an information processing apparatus that is connected with the controller apparatus. The controller apparatus works in an operation state of either a first state of receiving a user operation and transmitting information regarding the received operation to the information processing apparatus or a second state of executing a predetermined process based on the user contact state, the first state being different from the second state.