Phased-Array Antenna Beam Steering for 3D Controller Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional game controller tracking systems primarily focus on two-dimensional movement monitoring, lacking cost-effective and accurate three-dimensional tracking methods, particularly for the proximity of controllers to consoles, which limits the immersive gaming experience.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of millimeter-wave wireless links using directional beams between phased-array antennas in game consoles and controllers enables three-dimensional tracking, employing retro-directive arrays for low-power and low-cost automatic tracking, and code spreading techniques for multiple controller communication, allowing for precise position detection and tracking in three dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional two-dimensional tracking schemes are used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision of three-dimensional position is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical/optical tracking systems with electromagnetic wave-based tracking. The console uses millimeter-wave signals transmitted to controllers, which reflect the signals back using retro-directive antennas. The console receives and processes these reflected signals to determine three-dimensional position, substituting physical tracking mechanisms with electromagnetic field interactions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces millimeter-wave electromagnetic signals as an intermediary between the console and controller. These signals serve as carriers that convey position information without requiring direct physical contact or complex mechanical linkages. The retro-directive antenna on the controller acts as an intermediary element that automatically reflects signals back to the console.
2Measurement precision
If complex optical systems are used for tracking, then measurement precision of player positions is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes optical tracking systems with radio frequency millimeter-wave tracking. Instead of using cameras, lasers, or other optical components, the system uses electromagnetic waves in the millimeter-wave spectrum that can be transmitted and received by simple antennas, dramatically reducing system complexity while maintaining tracking precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs inexpensive retro-directive antenna arrays that can be integrated into controllers at low cost. These antenna arrays are simple, mass-producible components that replace expensive optical sensors and processors, making high-precision tracking accessible in consumer electronics.
3Measurement precision
If directional beams with phased-array antennas are used, then measurement precision of controller location is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs retro-directive antennas on the controller that automatically reflect incoming millimeter-wave signals back to the console without requiring active transmission or complex beam-steering mechanisms in the controller. This self-service approach eliminates the need for power-consuming phase shifters or active antenna elements in the portable controller, minimizing energy consumption while maintaining precise location detection capability at the console end.
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
This solution provides a cost-effective, complex-free, and high-resolution three-dimensional tracking system that enhances the gaming experience by accurately monitoring player movements in real-time, offering a more immersive and life-like video game experience with robust detection methods and minimal power consumption.
Implementation Method 1
employing millimeter-wave wireless links. In one embodiment, the links are established between each controller and a game console via directional beams radiated between respective phased-array antennas
Implementation Method 2
The controllers may utilize unique phased array antennas to reflect directional beams back to the game console
Data Source
AI summary
A gaming system is disclosed comprising a console unit having a processor and transceiver circuitry. The transceiver circuitry couples to the processor and includes respective receiver and transmitter circuits. A first phased array antenna interface is employed to transmit and receive directional signals in response to the processor. The system employs a mobile game controller including a second phased array antenna interface to receive and redirect the directional signals back to the first phased array antenna interface. The processor generates proximity data based at least in part on a parameter associated with the directional signals, the proximity data representing the proximity of the mobile game controller with respect to the game console unit.