Inclination Calculation Using Acceleration and Image Data

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing inclination calculation methods for input devices using acceleration detection are limited by inaccuracies due to inertial forces and delayed calculations, especially when the device is moved or vibrated, leading to incorrect inclination measurements.

Innovation Solution

An inclination calculation apparatus and program that combines acceleration data with image information from imaging targets to calculate the inclination of an input device, using multiple methods for precise calculation, including determination of successful image processing and acceleration data validity to ensure accurate and timely results.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If inclination is calculated only from acceleration detection means, then the calculation is simple and fast, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to inertial forces and vibrations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecalculation speedVSAvoidinclination measurement accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines acceleration detection means with imaging means to calculate inclination. The imaging means captures images of imaging targets to determine inclination through image processing, while the acceleration detection means provides acceleration data. By merging these two independent measurement systems, the patent achieves high-precision inclination calculation that overcomes the limitations of using either method alone, particularly eliminating errors caused by inertial forces and vibrations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Measurement precision

If processing for correcting inclination is executed to improve accuracy, then measurement precision improves, but the calculation time increases causing delays

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinclination calculation accuracyVSAvoidcalculation delay
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs partial action by selectively using correction processing only when necessary. The system determines whether correction is needed based on the reliability of acceleration data and the quality of image processing results. When image processing successfully provides accurate inclination data, extensive correction processing is avoided. This selective approach maintains high accuracy while minimizing unnecessary calculation time and delays.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Measurement precision

If multiple methods are used for inclination calculation, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinclination calculation accuracyVSAvoidsystem structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements multi-functionality by designing the imaging means to serve dual purposes: capturing images for inclination calculation and providing reference data for correcting acceleration-based inclination measurements. The imaging targets and processing system are designed to perform multiple functions including initial inclination determination, validation of acceleration data, and correction of measurement errors. This universal approach increases precision without proportionally increasing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

The solution enables highly precise and timely calculation of input device inclination, utilizing the strengths of both image and acceleration data to avoid inaccuracies and delays, ensuring accurate operation inputs.

Implementation Method 1

acceleration detection means (acceleration sensor 37) for detecting an acceleration in at least two axial directions

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAcceleration detection: Accelerometer

Implementation Method 2

imaging means (imaging element 40) for taking an image of two imaging targets

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectImage capture: Photography

Data Source

PatentUS8473245B2Inclination calculation apparatus and inclination calculation program, and game apparatus and game program
Publication Date: 2013.06.25 NINTENDO CO LTD
  • US8473245B2 patent drawing
  • US8473245B2 patent drawing
  • US8473245B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An inclination calculation apparatus calculates an inclination of an input device operable in terms of a posture thereof. The input device includes an acceleration sensor and an imaging element. In one non-limiting example implementation, the inclination calculation apparatus computes first inclination information representing an inclination of the input device based upon a coordinate position of an imaging target in an acquired image obtained by the imaging element and an estimated coordinate position of a second imaging target not acquired by the imaging element. The inclination calculation apparatus also computes second inclination information representing an inclination of the input device solely from an acceleration detected by the acceleration sensor. The inclination calculation apparatus then calculates an inclination of the input device using the first inclination information and the second inclination information.