Haptically Perceptible Virtual Object Presentation Using Reconfigurable Field Arrays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current virtual reality technologies fail to adequately stimulate the sense of touch, leading to a lack of immersion despite advanced visual and auditory simulations.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses reconfigurable field formation elements, such as individually controllable electromagnets, to create haptically perceptible fields based on depth data of 3D virtual objects, allowing users to physically interact with virtual objects through a field perception apparatus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If visual and auditory simulations are advanced in virtual reality, then visual and auditory immersion is improved, but tactile immersion deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the virtual object representation into depth data that can be independently processed for haptic rendering. By separating the depth information from visual rendering, the system can generate haptic feedback specific to each virtual object's surface characteristics without affecting visual quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a field formation element array as an intermediary between the virtual reality system and the user's tactile sense. This array generates perceptible fields that mediate the interaction between users and virtual objects, translating depth data into tactile sensations.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If haptic feedback is added to virtual reality, then tactile immersion is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The field formation element array serves multiple functions: it generates perceptible fields for haptic feedback, renders depth data into tactile form, and interfaces with various virtual objects. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components for each haptic function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state or parameters of the field formation elements dynamically based on depth data. By adjusting field strength, distribution, and characteristics in real-time, the system creates diverse haptic sensations without requiring physically different components for each type of feedback.
3Productivity
If haptic feedback refreshes at video frame rates, then immersion is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic updating of the field formation element array at video frame rates, synchronizing haptic feedback with visual content. This periodic action ensures immersion by maintaining consistent sensory information across modalities while allowing for energy management through rhythmic rather than continuous operation.
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
Enhances the immersiveness of virtual reality experiences by providing tactile feedback that dynamically simulates the shape and texture of virtual objects, matching the realism of visual and auditory components, and can be refreshed at a rate comparable to video frame rates for a more engaging and realistic interaction.
Implementation Method 1
A system that uses reconfigurable field formation elements, such as individually controllable electromagnets, to create haptically perceptible fields
Data Source
AI summary
An exemplary virtual object presentation system accesses depth data for surfaces of a three-dimensional (“3D”) virtual object. The system determines, based on the depth data, a set of element configuration operations that, when performed by field formation elements included within an array of reconfigurable field formation elements, form a field in accordance with the depth data. Specifically, the field formed is to be haptically perceptible to a user using a field perception apparatus. The system may direct the field formation elements included within the array of reconfigurable field formation elements to perform the set of element configuration operations to thereby form the haptically perceptible field. In this way, the array of reconfigurable field formation elements generates a haptically perceptible virtual object representative of the 3D virtual object for perception by the user using the field perception apparatus. Corresponding methods are also disclosed.