Modular Grid Stage System for VR Attraction Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current virtual reality (VR) attractions lack the ability to seamlessly integrate physical elements with VR representations, leading to inaccurate alignment of virtual and physical worlds, making it difficult to update and maintain, and resulting in a less immersive experience for repeat customers.

Innovation Solution

A modular stage system with a grid-aligned arrangement of accessories that can be easily assembled and disassembled, using peg holes and fittings to securely mount props, allowing for precise alignment of physical and virtual elements, enhancing the VR experience with sensory feedback.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed non-modular stage structure is used, then structural stability is maintained, but the ability to reconfigure VR environments is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereconfiguration capabilityVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The stage is divided into multiple modular sections that can be independently assembled and disassembled. Each section contains standardized accessory mounts, allowing the stage to be reconfigured into different layouts while maintaining structural integrity through the modular connection system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The stage structure transitions from a fixed configuration to a dynamic, reconfigurable system. Accessories can be mounted, removed, and repositioned on different stage sections, enabling the physical environment to adapt to different VR experiences while maintaining stability through standardized mounting mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Manufacturing precision

If custom-built stage structures are created for each VR experience, then precise alignment with virtual elements is achieved, but update and maintenance difficulty increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment precisionVSAvoidupdate ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The stage is segmented into standardized modular sections with pre-defined accessory mount positions. This segmentation allows precise alignment with virtual elements through consistent grid patterns while enabling easy updates by simply reconfiguring or replacing individual modules rather than rebuilding entire structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The modular stage sections are designed with universal mounting interfaces that can accommodate various accessories for different VR experiences. The same physical stage infrastructure supports multiple virtual environments, achieving precise alignment across different scenarios while simplifying maintenance through standardized components.

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

3Measurement precision

If accessories are permanently fixed to the stage, then alignment consistency is maintained, but reconfiguration time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment accuracyVSAvoidreconfiguration time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The stage is divided into modular sections with standardized accessory mounts positioned at precise grid locations. Accessories can be quickly attached or detached from these predefined mount points, maintaining alignment accuracy through the consistent grid system while enabling rapid reconfiguration by simply moving accessories between mounts rather than permanently fixing them.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Productivity

If a modular stage system is implemented, then reconfiguration speed is improved, but structural stability may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereconfiguration speedVSAvoidstructural stability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The stage is segmented into modular sections connected through standardized interfaces designed to maintain structural integrity. The modular design enables quick reconfiguration by assembling or disassembling sections, while the connection mechanisms and supporting infrastructure ensure that structural stability is preserved during both static and transitional states.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The modular sections and their connection points are designed with standardized geometric features that facilitate quick assembly while distributing mechanical loads evenly. The consistent geometry of mounts and connectors ensures rapid attachment while maintaining structural rigidity and stability throughout the reconfiguration process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

Data Source

PatentUSRE50071E1Apparatus and method for grid-based virtual reality attraction
Publication Date: 2024.08.06 SUMIDA CORP
  • USRE50071E1 patent drawing
  • USRE50071E1 patent drawing
  • USRE50071E1 patent drawing

AI summary

A comprehensive solution is provided to transforming locations and retail spaces into high-traffic virtual reality (VR) attractions that provide a VR experience blended with a real-world tactile experience. A grid-based stage and kit of fixed and moveable accessories suitable for a wide variety of commercial venues contain all of the necessary equipment, infrastructure, technology, and content to assemble and operate a tactile, on-site VR attraction. Utilizing a modular set of set design and physical props, the physical structure and layout of the installations are designed to be easily rearranged and adapted to new VR content without requiring extensive construction or specialized expertise.