3D Navigation Input Device Using Photodetector Pairs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional navigation input devices, such as mice and touch screens, are limited to two-dimensional control, failing to effectively navigate and interact with three-dimensional graphical user interfaces, which limits the realism and functionality in applications like 3D gaming and virtual environments.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional navigation input device is designed using photodetector pairs and a radiation source positioned along multiple axes, detecting movement through differential and common mode signals to enable precise control in a virtual 3D space, potentially incorporating additional sensors and a reflector dome for enhanced functionality and user experience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional navigation input devices (mouse, touch screen) are used, then the device structure remains simple and easy to manufacture, but the device can only control pointers in two-dimensional planes and cannot effectively navigate three-dimensional graphical user interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional pointer control to three-dimensional navigation by adding a vertical axis component. The device uses a reflector dome that can be deformed in three dimensions, with photodetector arrays positioned to detect movements along multiple axes (X, Y, and Z), enabling control in virtual 3D spaces beyond the traditional flat screen plane
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a reflector dome as an intermediary element between the user's finger input and the photodetector sensors. The dome converts finger pressure and movement into optical reflections that the photodetectors can detect, enabling indirect but precise measurement of three-dimensional movements without direct contact between the finger and sensors
2Measurement precision
If photodetector pairs are positioned along multiple axes to detect three-dimensional movement, then measurement precision for 3D navigation is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple photodetector pairs and signal processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection system into multiple independent photodetector pairs positioned along different axes (first photodetector pair along first axis, second photodetector pair along second axis). Each pair independently measures movement along its specific axis, and the individual measurements are combined to provide complete three-dimensional position information, making the complex measurement task manageable through division
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical three-dimensional tracking mechanisms with an optical detection system. Instead of using mechanical encoders or multiple mechanical sensors, the system uses photodetectors to detect changes in light reflection patterns caused by dome deformation, substituting mechanical measurement with optical field measurement for more precise and contactless detection
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
Enables intuitive and precise control in three-dimensional virtual spaces, enhancing user interaction and adding realism to applications like 3D gaming, while also providing additional input capabilities beyond traditional two-dimensional navigation.
Implementation Method 1
A radiation source may be positioned between the first photodetector pair when viewed along the first axis such that movement of an external object causes a first differential signal to be generated in the first photodetector pair and a second differential signal to be generated in the second photodetector pair
Data Source
AI summary
Input devices configured to provide user interface by detecting three dimensional movement of an external object are disclosed. The input device comprises at least two photodetector pairs, a radiation source and a circuit configurable to detect differential and common mode signals generated in the photodetector pairs. By detecting the common mode and differential signals, movement of an external object may be determined and used to control a pointer, or a cursor.