Sensor Array for 3D Virtual Object Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current controllers are inadequate for interacting with three-dimensionally viewed virtual environments, as they lack the capability to accurately control 3D objects that appear above or in front of a display screen, limiting dynamic interaction and control precision.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses a sensor array to detect physical objects and light beams in the space above or in front of the display, with action points programmed in the virtual scene, allowing for precise manipulation of 3D virtual objects by correlating real-world movements with virtual coordinates and activating subroutines for interactive control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional 2D controllers are used to interact with 3D virtual environments, then device simplicity is maintained, but control precision and interaction capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical 2D controllers with a sensor array system that uses optical fields to detect hand movements in 3D space. The sensor array captures images from multiple viewpoints, and software algorithms process these images to determine precise 3D hand position and gesture, substituting mechanical control with optical-field-based detection for improved precision without requiring complex physical controllers.
2Adaptability or versatility
If 3D virtual environments are displayed requiring specialized glasses or auto-stereoscopic displays, then three-dimensional effect is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a 3D virtual environment system that works with standard 2D displays, making the display device universal. By using software-based stereoscopic rendering that presents different images to left and right eyes through the camera system, the patent enables 3D viewing capability on ordinary displays without requiring specialized hardware, thus achieving multi-functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a camera-based intermediary system that captures the display screen and processes the images to create 3D effects. Instead of modifying the display hardware directly, the system uses the camera as an intermediary to capture, process, and re-present the visual information, enabling 3D capability through software processing rather than hardware modification.
3Ease of operation
If hand imaging is used as a 3D controller, then controller simplicity is maintained, but control accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the hand imaging process into multiple independent camera viewpoints that work together. By using multiple cameras to capture the hand from different angles simultaneously, the system can triangulate precise 3D position data. This segmentation of the detection system into multiple sensing points dramatically improves measurement precision while maintaining the simplicity of using the hand as the controller.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from 2D hand imaging to 3D hand positioning by adding the depth dimension through multi-viewpoint camera capture. The system processes images from multiple viewpoints to calculate precise x, y, and z coordinates of hand gestures, adding the z-axis dimension to the control space. This dimensional enhancement enables accurate 3D control while keeping the interaction method simple and natural.
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 natural and precise interaction with 3D virtual objects that appear above or in front of the display, enhancing control accuracy and dynamic interaction in three-dimensional virtual environments by translating real-world movements into virtual commands.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor array is provided that monitors the first area proximate the display. The sensor array can detect the presence and position of a physical object and/or a beam of light that enters the first area.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method of interacting with a virtual object in a virtual environment using physical movement. The virtual scene contains a 3D object that appears to extend forward or above the plane of the display. A sensor array is provided that monitors an area proximate the display. The sensor array can detect the presence and position of an object that enters the area. Action points are programmed in, on, or near the virtual objects. Each action point has virtual coordinates in said virtual scene that correspond to real coordinates within the monitored area. Subroutines are activated when the sensor array detects an object that moves to real coordinates that correspond to the virtual coordinates of the action points.