Electromagnetic Coupling for AR/VR Headset Attachment Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing augmented reality (AR)/virtual reality (VR) systems in amusement parks face challenges in quickly and securely attaching visualization devices to interface devices, particularly during ride cycles, which can be time-consuming and difficult.
Innovation Solution
An electromagnetic coupling system is employed using electromagnets integrated with the visualization and interface devices, controlled by a controller to modulate magnetic coupling forces, enabling quick and controllable attachment and detachment, ensuring the visualization device remains secured during rides.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional mechanical attachment methods are used to secure the visualization device to the interface device, then the device can be securely attached, but the attachment and detachment process becomes time-consuming and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical attachment mechanisms (such as clips, latches, or fasteners) with an electromagnetic coupling system. The electromagnet generates a magnetic field that magnetically couples to the reaction material in the interface device, enabling secure attachment without mechanical components. This substitution allows for quick attachment by simply bringing the devices together and rapid detachment by de-energizing the electromagnet, directly resolving the time and operational difficulty issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the ability to dynamically change the magnetic field strength by adjusting the electrical current to the electromagnet. During attachment, the electromagnet is energized to create strong magnetic coupling. During detachment, the current is reduced or reversed to eliminate the magnetic force. This parameter control enables the system to transition between attached and detached states quickly and easily, solving the time-consuming mechanical attachment problem.
2Reliability
If the magnetic coupling force is increased to ensure secure attachment during rides, then the device remains firmly secured, but the device becomes difficult to detach when needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic magnetic coupling system where the electromagnet's magnetic field strength can be adjusted in real-time. During ride cycles, the system maintains high magnetic coupling force to ensure secure attachment and prevent accidental detachment. When detachment is needed, the controller de-energizes or reverses the electromagnet, instantly reducing the magnetic force to zero or below, allowing easy separation. This dynamic control resolves the contradiction between secure attachment and easy detachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors that monitor the operational state (such as ride cycle detection, acceleration, or manual detachment requests) and provide feedback to the controller. Based on this feedback, the controller automatically adjusts the electromagnet's magnetic field strength. For example, when a ride cycle is detected, the system increases magnetic force; when detachment is requested, it reduces the force. This feedback mechanism ensures both secure attachment during operation and easy detachment when needed.
3Productivity
If an electromagnetic coupling system is implemented to enable quick attachment and detachment, then operational efficiency improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnet serves multiple functions within the system: it provides secure attachment during operation, enables rapid detachment when needed, and can potentially provide force feedback to the user. By consolidating these multiple functions into a single component, the system achieves high productivity without proportionally increasing complexity. The same electromagnetic component that enables quick attachment also ensures secure ride performance, making the added complexity worthwhile.
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
The electromagnetic coupling system allows for seamless and efficient attachment and detachment of AR/VR devices, enhancing guest experience by maintaining the visualization device during ride cycles while facilitating easy removal between cycles.
Implementation Method 1
The electromagnet is configured to magnetically couple to the reaction material
Implementation Method 2
The controller is configured to adjust operation of the electromagnet to modulate a magnetic coupling force between the electromagnet and the reaction material
Data Source
AI summary
An augmented reality, virtual reality, and/or mixed reality (AR/VR) system includes an interface device configured to be worn by a user. The interface device includes a frame supporting a reaction material. The AR/VR system also includes a visualization device configured to display virtual features for visualization by the user. The visualization device includes an electromagnet configured to magnetically couple to the reaction material. The AR/VR system further includes a controller electrically coupled to the electromagnet and configured to adjust operation of the electromagnet to modulate a magnetic coupling force between the electromagnet and the reaction material.