Modular Camera Blocks for Scalable VR Capture
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing virtual reality camera systems are limited by fixed camera configurations, which restrict the flexibility and scalability in capturing three-dimensional and 360-degree content, and do not allow for modular or user-adjustable field of view adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A modular camera system where individual cameras can be autonomously discovered and connected via angled surfaces or magnetic nubs, allowing for various configurations such as ring, spherical, or prism arrangements, enabling flexible field of view adjustments and resource sharing for enhanced virtual reality experiences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If dedicated structures with fixed numbers of cameras are used, then the system structure is simple and stable, but the flexibility and scalability for capturing three-dimensional and 360-degree content are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system is divided into independent modular camera units that can be individually configured and connected. Each camera module can function independently or be combined with others, allowing flexible scalability from single-camera to multi-camera configurations for different VR content requirements without redesigning the entire system structure
Solution Approach 2:
The camera modules are designed with universal interfaces and standardized mounting mechanisms that allow the same basic camera unit to serve multiple functions and configurations. The modular design enables cameras to be arranged in various patterns (linear, spherical, cubic) and connected through different port configurations, making the system adaptable to diverse VR capture needs while maintaining structural simplicity
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed camera configurations are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to adjust field of view and capture different VR experiences is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system transitions from static fixed configurations to dynamic reconfigurable arrangements. Cameras can be added, removed, or repositioned during operation, and the system automatically detects and adapts to the current configuration through processor-based position detection and autonomous discovery protocols, enabling flexible field of view adjustment without complex manual setup
Solution Approach 2:
The modular camera system performs self-configuration through autonomous discovery mechanisms. When cameras are connected, the processors automatically detect each other's positions and configurations, negotiate communication protocols, and establish image processing pipelines without external intervention, simplifying the user experience while enabling complex adaptive behaviors
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus comprises: a camera module for obtaining a first image, the camera module having at least one port, each of the at least one ports being associated with an attachment position for receiving a second camera module for obtaining a second image; a processor for detecting a position of a second camera module and providing, to an image processing controller, information relating to at least one of the position of the second camera module and the first image obtained by the camera module; and a memory for storing the information relating to at least one of the position of the second camera module and the first image obtained by the camera module.