HMD Cockpit Identification via Stereo Depth Camera
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Solution Overview
Problem
Simulator cockpits require expensive electronics and projectors for realistic training, leading to high costs and maintenance needs, which can be reduced by using a head-mounted display (HMD) to automatically identify and generate computer-generated imagery for cockpit and out-the-window views.
Innovation Solution
A head-mounted display device with a stereo depth camera system and processor identifies the simulator cockpit, generates computer-generated imagery based on pre-stored cockpit models, and overlays it onto the real-world scene, eliminating the need for electronic components and projectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional simulator cockpits use expensive electronics and projectors to provide realistic training, then the training realism is improved, but the cost and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a head-mounted display to create a virtual copy of the cockpit environment, replacing physical electronics and projectors with digital representations. The HMD displays computer-generated imagery that replicates cockpit instruments, controls, and out-the-window views, eliminating the need for expensive projection systems while maintaining training realism
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical and optical projection system with an electronic head-mounted display system. Instead of using projectors to cast images onto screens, the system uses digital displays worn by the trainee to present virtual cockpit imagery, substituting a complex mechanical projection infrastructure with a compact electronic display device
2Reliability
If traditional simulators use projectors to present out-the-window imagery, then the visual realism is improved, but the device size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the out-the-window view with the cockpit instrument display by presenting both through the same head-mounted display device. The HMD combines virtual reality elements (cockpit instruments) with augmented reality elements (out-the-window scenery), eliminating the need for separate projector systems for each view type
Solution Approach 2:
The head-mounted display serves multiple functions simultaneously: it displays cockpit instrument readings, presents out-the-window environmental views, and provides spatial orientation cues. This multi-functional device replaces what would traditionally require separate projectors and display systems for each function
3Manufacturing precision
If simulators use substantial electronics to provide visible and tactile feedback, then the training accuracy is improved, but the maintenance and cooling requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential visual and tactile feedback functions from complex electronic systems and implements them through a simplified head-mounted display. The HMD provides visual feedback through displayed imagery while tactile feedback is simulated through visual cues rather than requiring extensive haptic electronics
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive, maintenance-intensive electronic systems with more economical display technology. The head-mounted display uses standard display components that are less costly and require minimal maintenance compared to traditional simulator electronics, accepting that the display content is continuously regenerated rather than maintained
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
This solution reduces the costs and complexity of simulators by simulating cockpit electronics and eliminating the need for projectors, providing a more cost-effective and realistic training environment.
Implementation Method 1
A stereo depth camera system is coupled to the frame and has a camera field-of-view (FOV). The stereo depth camera system is configured to generate stereo depth camera information comprising frames of imagery and depth data
Data Source
AI summary
A head-mounted display (HMD) device is disclosed. The HMD device includes a frame and a display system coupled to the frame. A stereo depth camera system coupled to the frame generates stereo depth camera information comprising frames of imagery and depth data that identifies a distance to a simulator cockpit of a simulator. A processor device is coupled to the stereo depth camera system and to the display system. The processor device identifies, based on the stereo depth camera information, a particular cockpit model that corresponds to the simulator cockpit and that identifies a layout of cockpit controls of the simulator cockpit. The processor device, based at least in part on the cockpit model and a physical location of the simulator cockpit, generates computer-generated imagery. The processor device sends the computer-generated imagery to the display system to overlay the computer-generated imagery on top of a portion of a real-world scene.