Depth Image Sensing for Gesture Input in Gaming

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Solution Overview

Problem

Electronic gaming systems face challenges in providing an intuitive and error-free interface for players, particularly new ones, due to complex game mechanics and the need for precise input methods to avoid misinterpreted inputs, which can affect financial outcomes and player enjoyment.

Innovation Solution

The integration of depth image sensing technology allows players to make inputs through human gesturing, using depth image sensing devices to detect and interpret arm and finger movements, enabling more intuitive and deliberate interactions with gaming systems.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional input devices (buttons, keyboards) are used, then the system structure is simple and reliable, but the interface complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates for new players

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of interfaceVSAvoidsystem structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical input devices (buttons, keyboards) with a depth image sensing system that uses optical fields to detect and interpret human gestures. This substitution eliminates the need for physical contact with input devices, providing a more intuitive interface that naturally maps to game actions while reducing the perceived complexity of the system through gesture-based interaction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The depth image sensing device acts as an intermediary between the player and the gaming system. It captures three-dimensional depth information and translates complex gesture movements into simplified digital signals that the gaming system can process, thereby bridging the gap between natural human movement and structured input requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If traditional input devices are used, then the device complexity is low, but measurement precision of player inputs deteriorates leading to misinterpreted inputs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinput detection accuracyVSAvoidsensing system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from two-dimensional image capture to three-dimensional depth sensing by incorporating depth information into the imaging system. This additional dimension enables precise measurement of gesture movements, distances, and orientations, significantly improving input detection accuracy while maintaining system manageability through specialized depth sensors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces mechanical input devices with optical and depth sensing technologies that non-contactly detect player gestures. This substitution enables high-precision measurement of movement patterns, angles, and positions without the limitations of physical button presses or keyboard inputs, thereby improving input accuracy while reducing mechanical complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Adaptability or versatility

If complex game mechanics are implemented, then entertainment value increases, but ease of operation for new players deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegame mechanics complexityVSAvoidplayer understanding
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The gesture recognition system dynamically adapts to different game contexts and player skill levels. It can adjust the complexity of recognized gestures and provide real-time feedback, allowing new players to start with simple gestures while more experienced players can utilize complex gesture sequences, thereby making the system adaptable to varying entertainment requirements without sacrificing ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

This solution enhances player engagement by simplifying the interaction process, reduces errors in input interpretation, and provides a more enjoyable gaming experience while maintaining financial accuracy.

Implementation Method 1

one or more depth image sensing devices 510 may be used to determine the relative depth of an image from a captured scene

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDepth image sensing:

Data Source

PatentUS9005003B2Electronic gaming system with 3D depth image sensing
Publication Date: 2015.04.14 AGS LLC
  • US9005003B2 patent drawing
  • US9005003B2 patent drawing
  • US9005003B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Examples disclosed herein relate to systems and methods, which may receive wagers on one or more paylines. The disclosure relates to an electronic gaming system which allows a player to make one or more inputs via human gesturing, and associated methods.