Distance Pointing via Flat Field Encoding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing input devices fail to accurately indicate points or regions on a displayed image from a distance, leading to inefficiencies in controlling display devices and equipment, especially in environments where precise pointing is required.
Innovation Solution
The method employs flat field encoding, where pairs of images with uniform intensity and color are displayed in rapid succession to encode control information, allowing a detector to determine the pointing location by measuring relative intensity during these fields, providing immunity to ambient lighting and varying image intensities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional input devices are used to indicate points on a displayed image from a distance, then the user can control the display device, but the pointing accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces flat field encoded images as an intermediary carrier that conveys spatial reference information from the display to the detector. These encoded images serve as a mediator that enables accurate distance pointing by providing detectable reference patterns that the detector can use to calculate its position relative to the display, resolving the contradiction between distance operation and pointing accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical pointing devices (mice, trackballs) with an optical detection system. Instead of mechanical movement to indicate position, the system uses optical detection of flat field encoded patterns displayed on the screen, substituting mechanical interaction with optical field interaction to achieve accurate pointing from a distance
2Measurement precision
If flat field encoding is used to enable accurate distance pointing, then pointing accuracy improves, but processor bandwidth requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the encoding process into simple binary flat field patterns (on/off states) rather than using complex continuous encoding schemes. This segmentation into discrete, simple states reduces the computational complexity of both generating and detecting the encoded information, thereby reducing processor bandwidth requirements while maintaining pointing accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the encoding parameter from complex multi-level signals to simple binary intensity states (flat fields). By transforming the encoding scheme to use only two distinct intensity levels, the system reduces the information processing burden on the processor while still conveying sufficient spatial reference information for accurate pointing
3Reliability
If conventional pointing methods are used, then the system is simple to implement, but reliability in varying ambient lighting conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The flat field encoded images act as an intermediary reference system that provides stable, detectable patterns independent of ambient lighting. These encoded references serve as a reliable mediator between the display and detector, enabling consistent position calculation even when ambient lighting conditions vary, thus improving detection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring the detector's received signal strength and using this information to validate successful detection of flat field patterns. The detector provides feedback signals to the display system, enabling the system to adapt and maintain reliable operation across varying ambient lighting conditions through closed-loop control
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 approach enables accurate and reliable detection of pointing locations with minimal impact on the displayed image, reducing processor bandwidth requirements and improving precision in controlling display devices and equipment.
Implementation Method 1
The method employs flat field encoding, where pairs of images with uniform intensity and color are displayed in rapid succession to encode control information, allowing a detector to determine the pointing location by measuring relative intensity during these fields
Implementation Method 2
detecting the energy received by the receiver circuit during a first field; detecting the energy received by the receiver circuit during a second field
Data Source
AI summary
A pointing device, display system, and method of operation to allow the detection of a point on an image plane at which the pointing device is pointing.