Hardware-Agnostic Input Framework for Adaptive AR Input Fidelity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional artificial-reality applications are limited by hardware-specific input modalities, often disabling functionalities when certain hardware is unavailable, leading to reduced input capabilities and user dissatisfaction.
Innovation Solution
A hardware-agnostic input framework that dynamically adapts input capabilities based on available hardware resources, enabling applications to utilize a variety of fidelity levels by enumerating and mapping input capabilities across different hardware devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional input frameworks are used that are bound to specific hardware, then the system structure is simple and easy to implement, but the adaptability and versatility of input capabilities are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The input framework is designed to be hardware-agnostic and support multiple input modalities (hand tracking, controller input, voice commands, eye tracking) through a unified architecture. The framework enumerates available input capabilities from different hardware sources and presents them as standardized interfaces to applications, allowing one framework to serve multiple hardware configurations and input types universally.
Solution Approach 2:
The input framework acts as an intermediary layer between the hardware layer and application layer. It sits in the middle, enumerating capabilities from various hardware sources (cameras, controllers, microphones, eye trackers) and translating them into standardized input modalities that applications can consume without needing to know the underlying hardware specifics.
2Adaptability or versatility
If applications explicitly choose to support only a minimal set of input modalities, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability and user experience are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The input framework automatically enumerates available input capabilities from the hardware platform and makes them available to applications without requiring explicit configuration. Applications can query the framework for available input modalities and automatically adapt to what is available, eliminating the need for developers to manually configure each input modality for different hardware setups.
Solution Approach 2:
The input framework dynamically adapts to the available hardware configuration. It continuously monitors which input devices are available (cameras, controllers, microphones, eye trackers) and adjusts the set of supported input modalities accordingly. This allows applications to benefit from whatever input capabilities are currently available without requiring static configuration.
3Reliability
If hand tracking is disabled when cameras are turned off, then the system reliability is improved by avoiding errors, but the adaptability and input capabilities are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The input framework changes the operational parameters of input modalities based on hardware availability. When cameras are turned off, it automatically switches hand tracking from camera-based visual input to alternative modalities such as controller input or voice commands. This parameter change allows the system to maintain reliable input capabilities by adapting to the current hardware state rather than simply disabling functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The framework prepares alternative input pathways in advance so that when primary input methods become unavailable, seamless transitions can occur. By having multiple input modalities ready and the ability to switch between them, the system cushions against the loss of any single input method, ensuring continuous reliable operation.
4Weight of moving object
If artificial-reality glasses provide only basic input capabilities, then the device weight and appearance are improved, but the input quality and user satisfaction are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The lightweight AR glasses are paired with a universal input framework that can utilize multiple external input devices (controllers, smartwatches, smartphones) to provide comprehensive input capabilities. The framework is designed to work with whatever hardware is available, allowing the glasses themselves to remain simple and lightweight while the system as a whole provides rich input options through accessory devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The input system is segmented into core components (the lightweight glasses) and optional accessory components (controllers, smartwatches, external cameras). The input framework coordinates these segmented components, allowing the glasses to remain minimal and comfortable while accessories provide additional input capabilities when needed. This segmentation allows users to carry only what they need for each situation.
Data Source
AI summary
The various implementations described herein include methods and systems for providing input capabilities at various fidelity levels. In one aspect, a method includes receiving, from an application, a request identifying an input capability for making an input operation available within the application. The method further includes, in response to receiving the request: identifying techniques that the artificial-reality system can use to make the requested input capability available to the application using data from one or more devices; selecting a first technique for making the requested input capability available to the application; and using the first technique to provide to the application data to allow for performance of the requested input capability.