Game Controller Rear LED Array for Camera-Based Position Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current game systems lack an efficient method to integrate user motion recognition and input processing using a camera-based system, which limits innovative applications beyond gaming.
Innovation Solution
A game controller with a grip, input units, a transmission unit, and light-emitting elements on its rear, allowing for wireless communication with a game apparatus and enabling the capture of LED images to determine the controller's position and orientation, integrating user inputs and motion recognition for enhanced gaming experiences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a camera-based system is used to recognize user motion and process inputs, then the system can capture three-dimensional position and orientation data, but the system lacks efficient integration methods for processing this motion data alongside traditional game inputs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the camera-based motion recognition system with the traditional game controller input system into a unified processing framework. The game apparatus integrates both the image pickup apparatus for capturing controller positions and the traditional input units (buttons, joysticks) into a single coordinated system, allowing seamless combination of motion data and manual inputs for enhanced game control versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The game controller is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both a traditional input device with physical buttons and joysticks, and as an optical target for camera-based motion tracking. The light-emitting elements on the controller enable it to function as an identifiable marker for the camera system, while maintaining all conventional gaming input capabilities, thus providing universal applicability across different input methods
2Measurement precision
If light-emitting elements are added to the controller for camera recognition, then the controller's position and orientation can be accurately determined, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs light-emitting elements (LEDs) that emit light in specific color patterns to encode controller identification and status information. These colored lights are easily distinguishable by the camera system, enabling accurate detection of controller presence, position, and operational state without requiring complex mechanical or electronic modifications to the controller structure
Solution Approach 2:
The light-emitting elements serve as an intermediary between the controller and the camera system. Rather than requiring the camera to directly detect the controller's physical features, the LEDs provide a clear optical signal that mediates the detection process, enabling precise position and orientation determination while keeping the controller's physical structure relatively simple
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables advanced game applications by processing user inputs and motion data, providing a seamless integration of user motion into game mechanics, and offering versatile applications beyond gaming.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of light-emitting elements which are provided on a rear of the case
Data Source
AI summary
A game controller includes a plurality of LEDs formed on the rear of a case. The plurality of LEDs are arranged two-dimensionally in its layout area. The game controller has a plurality of PWM control units which are provided inside the case and control the lighting of the plurality of LEDs, respectively. The PWM control units control the lighting of the LEDs based on a control signal from a game apparatus. The game apparatus acquires a captured image of the game controller, and acquires the position of the game controller in the captured image based on the positions of the LEDs in the captured image.