Head-Worn Display Synchronization for Shared In-Vehicle VR
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies do not effectively enable synchronized virtual reality experiences for multiple vehicle occupants, particularly in the context of autonomously driving vehicles, where shared experiences during travel are desired.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for operating at least two display devices worn by vehicle occupants, which continuously transmit data on their relative arrangement and movements to synchronize virtual environments, allowing for shared and interactive experiences, including the use of sensors and user interfaces for detecting head movements and relative vehicle positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple display devices are operated independently without synchronization, then each device can function autonomously, but synchronized virtual reality experiences for multiple vehicle occupants cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
A central server acts as an intermediary to receive sensor data from multiple display devices and distribute synchronized virtual environment data to all devices. This mediator approach enables synchronization without requiring direct peer-to-peer communication between devices, reducing system complexity while achieving reliable synchronized experiences for multiple vehicle occupants
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses universal data transmission protocols and common sensor types (accelerometers, gyroscopes, cameras) that can be integrated across different display devices. This multi-functionality approach allows various devices to participate in the synchronized virtual reality experience using standardized interfaces, reducing overall system complexity
2Measurement precision
If sensors are integrated into each display device to detect head movements, then individual user perspectives can be tracked accurately, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple sensor functions are combined into integrated sensor modules within each display device. The system merges accelerometer, gyroscope, and camera data processing into a unified sensor fusion algorithm that runs on the device's processor, reducing the number of separate components while maintaining high measurement precision for head movement detection
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex mechanical tracking systems with electronic sensor-based detection. Instead of using mechanical encoders or optical tracking infrastructure, the patent uses inertial sensors (accelerometers and gyroscopes) combined with algorithmic processing to achieve accurate head movement detection, simplifying the device architecture
3Adaptability or versatility
If virtual environments are customized for each individual occupant, then personalization is improved, but synchronization and shared experiences become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The virtual environment is segmented into modular components that can be independently customized for each user while maintaining a synchronized core structure. The system divides the virtual experience into user-specific elements (avatar positioning, personal preferences) and shared elements (overall scene, events), allowing customization without compromising synchronization of the fundamental virtual environment across all devices
Data Source
AI summary
Data characterizing a relative arrangement of vehicle occupants with respect to one another are continuously transmitted to display devices worn on the heads of the vehicle occupants. Virtual environments are displayed as a function of these data.