Game Controller Emulator for Virtual Reality Input Mapping

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing gamepad controllers are not compatible with virtual reality applications, despite having sufficient inputs to represent virtual controllers.

Innovation Solution

A method and emulator that receive input from a game controller, determine whether it is assigned to a first or second virtual controller device, and output data accordingly, allowing existing game controllers to emulate virtual reality controllers without modifying virtual reality applications.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If existing gamepad controllers are used, then the number of input elements is sufficient, but compatibility with virtual reality applications is lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenumber of input elementsVSAvoidcompatibility with virtual reality applications

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates virtual copies of game controller inputs that emulate virtual reality controller functionality. The system receives input from a physical game controller and generates corresponding virtual controller device data, allowing existing controllers to function in VR applications through software-based emulation rather than requiring new hardware

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables a single game controller to serve multiple functions by making it compatible with both traditional game applications and virtual reality applications. Through the emulation process, the controller gains universal applicability across different application types without modifying the physical hardware

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If virtual reality applications are made compatible with existing game controllers, then ease of operation is improved, but application rewriting requirements are eliminated

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of operationVSAvoidapplication rewriting requirements

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system introduces an intermediary emulation layer that translates between game controller inputs and virtual reality controller expected inputs. This mediator component handles the compatibility translation, allowing existing applications to continue functioning without modification while enabling new VR applications to work with traditional controllers

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS10974144B2Methods for emulating a virtual controller device, emulators, and computer-readable media

Publication Date: 2021.04.13 RAZER ASIA PACIFIC

AI summary

According to various embodiments, a method for emulating a virtual controller device may be provided. The method may include: receiving input from a game controller; determining whether the received input is assigned to a first virtual controller device or to a second virtual controller device; outputting data related to the first virtual controller device if it is determined that the received input is assigned to the first virtual controller device; and outputting data related to the second virtual controller device if it is determined that the received input is assigned to the second virtual controller device.