Directional Signal Selection for AR Smart Device Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The proliferation of internet-connected smart devices has led to challenges in controlling multiple devices simultaneously due to separate user interfaces and storage requirements, especially when using augmented reality systems without touchscreens, which complicates user interface manipulation and device control.
Innovation Solution
The method involves emitting directional signals with varying solid angles to identify and control smart devices, allowing a user to select devices by aiming an augmented reality system, reducing the need for manual interface manipulations and storage by generating a user interface element based on signal reception times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate user interfaces are used for each smart device, then device control functionality is maintained, but user interface complexity and manipulation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate device control interfaces into a single unified user interface that can control multiple smart devices simultaneously. This is achieved by creating a consolidated control system that integrates functions for controlling different device types (lights, thermostats, locks, cameras, etc.) through one interface, thereby reducing manipulation complexity while maintaining full device control capability
Solution Approach 2:
The unified user interface is designed to perform multiple functions across different device types through a single system. The interface can control various smart devices (lighting, temperature control, security, entertainment) using consistent interaction methods, making the system universal and eliminating the need for separate specialized interfaces for each device category
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple smart device applications are stored on the smartphone, then device control capability is maintained, but storage space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of storing separate applications for each smart device or device category, the patent implements a single universal control application that can manage multiple types of smart devices. This unified application consolidates the functionality of what would otherwise require multiple separate applications, significantly reducing the storage space required on the smartphone while maintaining comprehensive device control capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functionality of multiple device control applications into one consolidated application. By combining the control mechanisms for different device types (lighting, security, entertainment, etc.) into a single application package, the system reduces the total storage footprint while preserving all necessary control capabilities
3Ease of operation
If augmented reality devices are used for device control, then hands-free operation is enabled, but user interface manipulation becomes challenging without touchscreens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical touchscreen interaction with optical-based augmented reality interface manipulation. Users interact with virtual interface elements overlaid in their field of view through gaze detection and voice commands, eliminating the need for physical touchscreen contact. This substitution enables hands-free operation while maintaining intuitive interface control through natural human behaviors like looking and speaking
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for identifying devices via a directional signal. A first directional signal having a first solid angle is emitted from a first device during a first time period, and a second directional signal having a second solid angle is emitted from the first device during a second time period. A second device that has received the first signal emitted during the first time period and has received the second signal emitted during the second time period is identified. A third device that has not received the first signal emitted during the first time period and has received the second signal emitted during the second time period is identified. A user interface element based on the identifying the second device and the identifying the third device is generated, for output at the first device.