Multi-Pointer Input Mapping with Relative and Absolute Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mapping multiple points from a multi-pointer indirect input device to a display using relative or absolute mapping poses computational challenges, particularly in managing viewport boundaries and ensuring spatial accuracy, which affects user experience and interface efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented process that receives input points from a multi-pointer indirect input device, allowing selection between relative and absolute mapping options independently for each axis, with bounding conditions applied to maintain mapped points within the visible display area and incorporating viewport selection and input mapping modules to handle multiple points and acceleration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple points from a multi-pointer indirect input device are mapped to a display using relative or absolute mapping, then spatial representation accuracy is improved, but computational complexity increases due to viewport boundary management and mapping calculations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the mapping process into distinct modules: a viewport selection module that determines the visible area, an input mapping module that handles the coordinate transformation, and a bounding module that enforces display boundaries. This segmentation allows each module to handle specific computational tasks independently, improving spatial accuracy while managing complexity through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary coordinate system transformation process that acts as a mediator between the input device coordinate space and the display coordinate space. The viewport and bounding modules serve as intermediary layers that translate and constrain coordinates, ensuring accurate spatial representation without requiring complex direct mapping calculations.
2Area of stationary object
If multiple input points are mapped using absolute mapping from a small sensor to a large display surface, then spatial coverage is improved, but mapped points may fall outside the visible display area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary bounding conditions to the mapped coordinates before they are rendered on the display. The bounding module pre-processes the mapped points by checking and adjusting their positions to ensure they fall within the visible display area, preventing invisible points from being generated in the first place.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic viewport adjustment that adapts the visible area based on the distribution of mapped input points. When points map outside the display area, the viewport dynamically adjusts its boundaries or position to ensure all relevant points remain visible, maintaining reliability while preserving absolute mapping's spatial coverage benefits.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple input points are mapped using relative mapping, then viewport management flexibility is improved, but computational overhead increases due to viewport determination and boundary condition enforcement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different mapping strategies and bounding conditions to different regions of the display based on local requirements. The viewport selection module identifies regions of interest and applies optimized mapping calculations only to those areas, reducing unnecessary computational overhead while maintaining flexibility in viewport management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically changes mapping parameters such as viewport position, size, and origin coordinates based on the distribution and movement of input points. By adjusting these parameters in real-time, the system maintains flexible viewport management while optimizing computational efficiency through parameter-based control rather than complex recalculations.
Data Source
AI summary
An indirect interaction input device, such as but not limited to a touch sensor, can provide multiple points of input, such as two or more positions in a coordinate space where a user is touching the sensor. These multiple points are in turn mapped to multiple positions on an output device such as a display. The mapping can be relative or absolute. With a relative mapping, boundary conditions for single and multiple displays are applied and, if appropriate, remedial offsets are added to the input points to maintain a desired user interaction model.