Gesture-Based Remote Control Using MEMS Motion Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional remote controls with numerous buttons can be frustrating to use, especially for users with disabilities or in low-light conditions, as they require manual searching for specific buttons to perform functions like pausing a movie or answering a phone, which can lead to user frustration and difficulty in operating audiovisual devices.
Innovation Solution
A gesture-based remote control that incorporates motion sensing technology, using microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) sensors to generate command signals for controlling audiovisual devices by sensing movements such as taps and gestures, allowing users to control functions like volume, playback, and channel changes without physically pressing buttons.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional remote controls with numerous buttons are used to provide expanded functionality, then the device can control many different apparatus and functions, but the ease of operation deteriorates as users must manually search for specific buttons
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical button-pressing system with a motion sensing system using accelerometers and gyroscopes. Users perform gestures such as pointing the remote at the desired function or making circular motions, and the motion sensors detect these gestures to trigger corresponding commands, eliminating the need to physically locate and press specific buttons among many.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces motion sensors and gesture recognition algorithms as intermediaries between the user and the remote control functions. Instead of direct button interaction, the user's hand movements are captured by accelerometers and gyroscopes, processed through gesture recognition software, and translated into control signals, providing an indirect but more intuitive interface.
2Illumination intensity
If remote controls operate in low-light conditions, then the device can be used during nighttime or in dark environments, but the ease of operation deteriorates as users cannot see the buttons to locate them
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the visual-button-pressing system with a motion-based interaction system that does not require visual input. Accelerometers and gyroscopes detect hand gestures and pointing movements regardless of lighting conditions, allowing users to operate the remote by physical motion rather than visual identification of buttons.
3Adaptability or versatility
If remote controls are designed with many small buttons to provide comprehensive control, then the device can perform numerous functions, but the device complexity increases making the interface more difficult to navigate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the physical buttons from the remote control interface, retaining only the essential motion sensing components (accelerometers and gyroscopes). This removes the visual and physical complexity of numerous buttons while preserving full functionality through gesture-based command input.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the mechanical button array with electronic motion sensing. The accelerometers and gyroscopes capture three-dimensional hand movements, which are then interpreted by software to execute various commands, replacing the need for physical buttons while maintaining comprehensive control capabilities.
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
Enables intuitive and accessible control of audiovisual devices through gestures, reducing user frustration and improving usability for individuals with disabilities, especially in low-light conditions, by allowing movement-based input for common functions.
Implementation Method 1
A motion sensor, such as a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) sensor, is carried by the body. Motion circuitry is carried by the body and is operably connected the motion sensor.
Implementation Method 2
The remote control is moved in a chosen manner. The movement of the remote control is sensed.
Implementation Method 3
In some examples the moving step is carried out by tapping the remote control. In some examples the moving step comprises sensing vibration.
Data Source
AI summary
A remote control controls an audiovisual apparatus, such as a TV, using conventional physical inputs, such as buttons, or by controlled movement of the remote control. Circuitry connected to the physical inputs generates command signals for receipt by and operation of the apparatus. The command signals, such as On or Change Channel, correspond to control functions for the apparatus. The remote control also includes a motion sensor and motion circuitry connected to one another and constructed to generate at least some of the command signals when the body has been moved in predetermined manners for receipt by and operation of the apparatus. The remote control can therefore be operated using either the physical inputs or by moving the remote control in at least one of the predetermined manners. In some examples the motion sensor comprises a MEMS sensor.