Hybrid Subsystem for Smooth Stereoscopic Transitions

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Solution Overview

Problem

Transitions between stereoscopic and non-stereoscopic imaging modes are jarring for users, causing discomfort and degrading the viewing experience due to abrupt changes in perceived depth.

Innovation Solution

A computer-implemented method that gradually transitions between stereoscopic and non-stereoscopic imaging by adjusting the eye offset, allowing users time to adjust to changes in imaging mode, with longer transitions from non-stereoscopic to stereoscopic mode to minimize discomfort.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If transitions between stereoscopic and non-stereoscopic imaging modes are implemented, then users can switch between different imaging modes to optimize for different tasks, but the abrupt transitions cause jarring changes in perceived depth that degrade the viewing experience and cause discomfort

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveAbility to switch between imaging modesVSAvoidUser discomfort and visual strain

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the transition between stereoscopic and non-stereoscopic modes gradual rather than abrupt. The system dynamically adjusts the imaging mode over time, allowing the user's visual system to adapt progressively to changes in perceived depth, thereby reducing discomfort while maintaining the ability to switch between modes for different tasks

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of transition speed from instantaneous to gradual. By controlling the rate at which the imaging mode changes, the system allows users to adapt to depth perception changes without experiencing jarring transitions, thus resolving the contradiction between mode adaptability and user comfort

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If stereoscopic imaging mode is used, then depth perception and scene recognition are improved, but extended use causes eye strain and visual discomfort due to vergence accommodation conflict

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveDepth perception accuracyVSAvoidEye strain and visual discomfort

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies periodic action by implementing automatic transitions between stereoscopic and non-stereoscopic modes based on elapsed time. The system periodically switches modes to prevent extended exposure to stereoscopic imaging that causes eye strain, while still providing depth perception benefits during stereoscopic periods

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts the duration and timing of stereoscopic imaging periods based on user comfort thresholds, allowing optimal depth perception when needed while preventing excessive exposure that causes visual discomfort

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Object-affected harmful factors

If non-stereoscopic imaging mode is used, then visual comfort is maintained for extended periods, but depth perception and scene recognition are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveVisual comfort levelVSAvoidDepth perception capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements periodic transitions where the system alternates between non-stereoscopic mode (for visual comfort) and stereoscopic mode (for depth perception). This periodic switching allows users to maintain comfort during non-stereoscopic periods while still accessing enhanced depth perception when needed

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentUS10230932B2Techniques for animating transitions between non-stereoscopic and stereoscopic imaging

Publication Date: 2019.03.12 AUTODESK INC

AI summary

In one embodiment of the present invention, a hybrid subsystem orchestrates animated transitions between stereoscopic imaging and non-stereoscopic imaging. In operation, the hybrid subsystem receives frames that represent a three-dimensional object over time. The hybrid subsystem renders the first frame based on a left eye position and then re-renders the first frame based a right eye position. The left eye position and the right eye position are separated by a predetermined distance that is optimized for stereoscopic viewing. As part of rendering and re-rendering subsequent frames, the hybrid subsystem gradually deceases the distance between the left eye position and the right eye position. Upon receiving a final frame in the transition, the hybrid subsystem renders once—to a single eye position. Advantageously, because the rendered three-dimensional object image gradually loses depth throughout the animated transition, the hybrid subsystem minimizes disruptions to the viewing experience.