Head-Mounted Display Menu Navigation via Focal Point Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wearable virtual reality (VR) head-mounted displays (HMDs) lack effective navigation and control within virtual environments without the need for an independent controller device.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system that generates positional data using sensors like gyroscopes, accelerometers, and magnetometers to track the focal point within a virtual environment, utilizing a fixation timer to determine when a focal point is within the operational range of a menu navigation element, and executing corresponding functions upon expiration of the timer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an independent controller device is used for navigation in VR environments, then navigation and control functionality is achieved, but device complexity and user burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the navigation control functionality into the HMD itself by using the display elements as input sensors. The focal point tracking and menu navigation capabilities are integrated directly into the head-mounted display, eliminating the need for separate controller devices. Users interact with the virtual environment through natural head movements and focal point positioning rather than external controllers.
Solution Approach 2:
The HMD system performs self-navigation and self-control functions by utilizing its own display elements to detect user intent. The system tracks the focal point automatically and interprets user commands through eye movement and head position data, allowing the device to serve itself as both display and control interface without requiring external input devices.
2Ease of operation
If focal point tracking is implemented for menu navigation, then controller-less navigation is enabled, but measurement precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces visual indicators and operational range zones as intermediaries between the user's focal point and the menu selection. Instead of requiring precise direct detection of the focal point, the system displays visual feedback showing the operational range of menu elements, making the measurement process more tolerant and easier to execute accurately.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by displaying visual indicators of the focal point position and operational ranges before final selection is made. This allows users to adjust their focus and ensures accurate detection by providing feedback before the measurement is finalized, reducing precision requirements through iterative adjustment.
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 seamless navigation and control within VR environments directly through head movements, eliminating the need for a separate controller and enhancing user interaction with virtual interfaces.
Implementation Method 1
at least one of a gyroscope, magnetometer, and an accelerometer that generate positional data
Implementation Method 2
at least one of a gyroscope, magnetometer, and an accelerometer that generate positional data
Implementation Method 3
at least one of a gyroscope, magnetometer, and an accelerometer that generate positional data
Implementation Method 4
a head-mounted display including at least one lens to display a focal point in a virtual environment
Data Source
AI summary
A wearable computing device includes a head-mounted display (HMD) that generates a virtual reality environment. Through the generation and tracking of positional data, a focal point may be tracked with respect to one or menu navigation elements. Following the fixated positioning of the focal point over the menu navigation element for a predetermined amount of time, a process corresponding to the menu navigation element is executed.