Haptic Device Trajectory Tracking for Virtual Objects
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for manipulating virtual objects, such as virtual projectiles in gaming and simulations, lack effective methods for providing immersive and accurate haptic feedback, particularly in multiplayer scenarios where synchronized motion and trajectory tracking are essential.
Innovation Solution
The use of haptic devices equipped with motion sensors, haptic actuators, and control circuits that generate motion signals and provide feedback to users, allowing for the recreation of propelling motions and trajectory determination, enabling synchronized gameplay between users through wireless communication and precise actuator control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If haptic actuators are used to provide immersive feedback, then user immersion is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The haptic device combines multiple functions into a single unit: motion sensing (accelerometer, gyroscope), haptic actuation (vibration motor), and wireless communication (Bluetooth). This multi-functional integration allows the device to provide accurate haptic feedback while managing complexity through consolidation of components into a wearable unit that can be worn on the wrist or held in hand.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses an intermediary computing device (smartphone or computer) that handles complex trajectory calculation and coordinate transformation. The haptic device itself remains relatively simple, relying on the intermediary to process motion data and generate appropriate haptic feedback patterns based on virtual object trajectory, thereby reducing the complexity burden on the haptic device while maintaining feedback accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If motion sensors track trajectory precisely, then trajectory tracking accuracy is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system updates haptic feedback at discrete intervals based on the virtual object's trajectory rather than continuously. The haptic actuator is activated periodically to nudge the user's hand toward the correct trajectory point, rather than providing continuous resistance or force. This periodic activation reduces energy consumption while maintaining adequate trajectory tracking precision for the application.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses software-based trajectory calculation and simulation instead of requiring complex physical guidance mechanisms. Virtual copies of the trajectory are calculated and transmitted to the haptic device, which then provides feedback based on these digital representations. This approach consumes less energy than implementing physical guidance structures while maintaining precision through computational methods.
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 immersive and accurate manipulation of virtual projectiles by recreating the sensation of throwing or kicking, allowing users to engage in realistic virtual games of catch with precise trajectory tracking and feedback, enhancing the multiplayer experience.
Implementation Method 1
a haptic actuator to generate a haptic feedback
Implementation Method 2
a motion sensor to generate a motion signal describing a motion of the haptic device
Data Source
AI summary
Various examples are directed to a haptic device for manipulating a virtual projectile. The haptic device may receive a trajectory of the virtual projectile. A position circuit may determine a first position of a body part of a user based at least in part on a motion signal received from a motion sensor. A comparator circuit may determine a first distance between the first position of the body part and the trajectory. A feedback circuit may excite a haptic actuator of the haptic device at a first level. The position circuit may also determine a second position of the body part. The comparator circuit may also determine a second distance between the second position of the body part and the trajectory. The second distance may be different than the first distance. The feedback circuit may excite the haptic actuator at a second level different than the first level.