Embedded Navigation Interface for 3D Imagery Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional navigation controls in 3D computer graphics systems are inefficient for large-scale navigation, requiring incremental movements and lacking a straightforward method to restore the initial image state, thereby consuming screen space and forcing users to manually re-enter coordinates.
Innovation Solution
An embedded navigation interface is provided, featuring controls like a rotation wheel with a restore mechanism, tilt and zoom sliders, and a joystick, allowing continuous and smooth interactions directly over the imagery, with the ability to restore the initial state by interacting with a thumb control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If navigation controls are located on a separate tool bar in the UI, then navigation functionality is provided, but screen space is consumed and users must take their eyes off the imagery while navigating
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the navigation controls with the imagery display area by embedding the control interface directly over the imagery. This integration eliminates the need for a separate tool bar, allowing users to navigate without moving their eyes from the imagery while preserving maximum screen space for displaying the imagery itself.
2Productivity
If conventional navigation controls require continuous clicking for incremental movements, then navigation is possible, but navigation of larger areas becomes tedious and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic navigation controls that respond to the user's interaction state. The controls transition from requiring precise incremental clicks to enabling continuous smooth movement when activated, allowing users to quickly navigate large areas by simply holding the control rather than repeatedly clicking, thereby significantly improving navigation speed and reducing operational complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional navigation controls lack a restore mechanism, then navigation flexibility is reduced, but adding a restore mechanism increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service restore mechanism where the navigation control automatically provides a restore function without requiring separate complex systems. The control detects when users need to return to the initial state and provides intuitive restore functionality through the same embedded interface, maintaining simplicity while adding versatility.
4Ease of operation
If navigation controls are separate from the imagery, then control functionality is provided, but users cannot maintain visual contact with the imagery while navigating
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the navigation controls with the imagery display by embedding the control interface directly over the imagery. This merging allows users to maintain continuous visual contact with the imagery while accessing navigation controls, eliminating the need to shift attention between separate control areas and the imagery display.
Data Source
AI summary
A navigation interface is embedded in imagery and includes various controls for manipulating the imagery. The controls provide various navigation operations, including but not limited to: rotation, tilt, zoom and 360 degree. In some implementations, one or more controls can be operated to restore the imagery to a predetermined state. Some implementations include a control for providing 360 degree movement of imagery. One or more controls can provide incremental and continuous motion of imagery. The navigation interface can fade out or otherwise be obfuscated when the user is not interacting with the navigation controls. A compass or other graphic can replace the navigation interface when it is no longer displayed.