Input Device Inclination Detection for Screen Object Rotation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional input devices for information processing systems, such as game controllers, are limited to simple position designation operations, leading to unentertaining and limited gameplay experiences.

Innovation Solution

An information processing apparatus that utilizes an input device with imaging means to capture images of markers, allowing for the calculation of inclination data and enabling the replacement of objects on a screen based on the device's orientation, providing new operational capabilities like rotating and rearranging game elements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If an optical pointing system is used for position designation, then the user can designate arbitrary positions on the display screen, but the input device can only perform simple position designation operations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition designation capabilityVSAvoidoperation types
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The input device is enhanced with imaging means to perform multiple functions: position designation, object selection, and inclination-based operations. The device can designate positions on the display screen, select objects by pointing, and perform replacement operations by rotating, creating a multi-functional input system that resolves the limitation of single-function operation

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

2Ease of manufacture

If the input device structure is kept simple for position designation, then the device is easy to manufacture, but the device cannot perform complex operations like rotating and rearranging objects

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinput device structureVSAvoidgame operation capabilities
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The input device incorporates imaging means that enables it to perform multiple operations including position designation, object selection, and inclination-based manipulation. This multi-functional capability allows the device to support complex game operations like rotating and rearranging objects without requiring multiple separate devices

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex mechanical operation mechanisms with optical imaging and electronic processing. The imaging means captures marker positions and device inclination, and electronic calculations determine operation parameters, substituting mechanical complexity with optical-electronic systems that are easier to manufacture while providing richer capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of operation

If the input device only designates positions on the screen, then the operation is simple, but the gameplay becomes unentertaining and limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation simplicityVSAvoidgameplay engagement
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The input device performs both simple position designation and complex manipulation operations. Users can designate positions on the display screen and also perform object selection, rotation, and rearrangement by pointing and rotating the device, providing diverse gameplay operations that maintain simplicity while enhancing entertainment value

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent adds a new dimension of operation by utilizing device inclination in addition to position designation. The imaging means detects the inclination of the input device, enabling operations like rotating objects on the screen by rotating the device, thereby adding spatial dimensionality to the interaction and enhancing gameplay engagement

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 users to perform novel operations like rotating and rearranging objects on a screen, enhancing gameplay complexity and user interaction, providing a more engaging and intuitive experience.

Implementation Method 1

The controller 7 includes an imaging information calculation section 35 having an infrared filter 38, a lens 39, an imaging element 40 and an image processing circuit 41

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInfrared radiation detection: Infrared Radiation

Data Source

PatentUS8469811B2Information processing apparatus and storage medium having information processing program stored thereon
Publication Date: 2013.06.25 NINTENDO CO LTD
  • US8469811B2 patent drawing
  • US8469811B2 patent drawing
  • US8469811B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An information processing apparatus calculates or obtains inclination data which changes in accordance with the inclination of an input device, from the operation data obtained from the input device. The operation data includes at least one of data on a taken image taken by the imaging means, data representing predetermined two positions in the imaging target in the taken image, data representing a direction connecting the two positions, and inclination data representing an inclination of the input device which is calculated based on the direction. The information processing apparatus replaces an object (panel, etc.) displayed on a screen with another object based on the inclination data and displays the replacement result.