Modular Block Input Device Using Optical Shape Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing input devices that mimic real objects for information processing are limited in variability and increased manufacturing costs due to the need for multiple sensors to measure shape and motion, restricting their applications and usability.
Innovation Solution
A modular system of blocks with embedded sensors and connectors that allow for flexible assembly and use as input devices, where the shape and position of the blocks are used to provide input values for information processing, reducing the need for extensive sensor distribution and lowering manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are embedded in each component to measure rotation angle and shape, then measurement precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses image capture devices to optically copy and analyze the physical object's appearance and motion, replacing physical sensors with visual field analysis. The image processing unit extracts motion information from captured images, eliminating the need for embedded sensors in each component.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical sensor systems with an optical-mechanical system. Instead of using physical sensors to detect rotation angles, the system uses image capture devices and image processing to analyze the object's appearance changes, substituting mechanical measurement with optical field analysis.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the form of the input apparatus is made more flexible, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal input apparatus that can measure various shapes and motions using the same image capture device and image processing unit. The system analyzes the appearance and motion of different objects through their visual field changes, providing a multi-functional measurement capability without requiring different mechanisms for each object type.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses optical copying through image capture to represent various physical forms in the visual field. By analyzing the captured images and their changes over time, the system can identify and measure different shapes and motions without physical contact or specialized sensors for each form.
3Measurement precision
If sensors are distributed to every part to enable comprehensive measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a single or limited number of image capture devices to optically copy and analyze the entire object or multiple components. The image processing unit extracts shape and motion information from these visual copies, eliminating the need for distributed sensors while maintaining comprehensive measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical sensor distribution system with an optical field analysis system. Image capture devices and image processing substitute for multiple physical sensors, reducing device complexity while maintaining the ability to detect shape and motion throughout the object.
Data Source
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AI summary
A block tool 120, which can be assembled by a user, is configured with multiple types of blocks 102a, 102b, 102d, and 102h and is shot by a camera 122 for capturing a still image or a moving image. The position coordinates of a marker 108 of the square-pillar block 102a in a three-dimensional space are obtained by image recognition. Also, a connecting position and the type of each block, a gradient vector m1 of the square-pillar block 102a or 102b, an angle θ between two blocks constituting the square-pillar block 102b, and the respective blocks' lengths L1, L2, L3, L4, and L5 are obtained so as to derive the shape, posture, and position of the block tool 120, and corresponding information processing is then performed.