Spatially Aware Control Device for Pointer-Directed Camera Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional presentation systems struggle to intelligently track both the presenter and physically present objects of interest during hybrid meetings, as cameras often focus on the presenter holding a tracked device, neglecting other relevant objects or subjects in the physical environment.
Innovation Solution
A control device with a processor, communication, positional, and orientation sensors, along with a ranging device, determines pointer information to adjust the field of view (FOV) of a base device, such as a camera, to focus on indicated objects or areas of interest, using wireless communication and machine learning for precise tracking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the camera focuses on the presenter holding a tracked device, then the presenter can be continuously tracked, but other relevant objects or subjects in the physical environment are neglected
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between tracking modes: presenter-centric tracking when the control device is actively pointed at objects, and object-centric tracking when pointers are detected. This dynamic adaptation allows the camera to alternate focus between the presenter and relevant objects based on real-time spatial awareness data
Solution Approach 2:
Pointer devices (laser pointers, IR pointers, USB pointers) serve as intermediaries between the presenter's intent and the camera's focus. These pointers detectable by sensors trigger FOV adjustments, allowing indirect control of camera attention without manual manipulation
2Measurement precision
If manual manipulation of the capture device is required to focus on objects, then precise control is achieved, but the operation becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically detecting pointers through sensors (laser, IR, USB) and autonomously adjusting the FOV based on pointer coordinates. This eliminates the need for manual camera operation while maintaining precise focus on intended objects
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical camera adjustment is replaced with automated sensor-based detection and electronic FOV control. The system substitutes physical manipulation with optical/electronic sensing and digital signal processing to achieve focus adjustment
3Measurement precision
If the system uses multiple sensors and devices for spatial awareness, then tracking accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control device integrates multiple sensing capabilities (laser detection, IR detection, USB communication, positional tracking) into a single universal platform. This multi-functional device can detect various pointer types and provide comprehensive spatial awareness without requiring separate dedicated sensors for each function
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple sensing functions (laser pointer detection, IR pointer detection, USB pointer communication, positional tracking) are merged into an integrated control device system. This consolidation reduces overall system complexity by combining what could be separate devices into one unified platform
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 semi-automated imaging and recording of presentations, allowing remote viewers to see both the presenter and relevant objects without manual manipulation of the capture device, enhancing the presentation experience.
Implementation Method 1
a ranging device operable to data communicate with the processor
Implementation Method 2
an orientation sensor operable to data communicate with the processor
Data Source
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Figure 3-3~3-4
AI summary
A control device may include a processor. A control device may include a communication device operable to data communicate with the processor. A control device may include a positional sensor operable to data communicate with the processor. A control device may include an orientation sensor operable to data communicate with the processor. A control device may include a ranging device operable to data communicate with the processor. A control device may include a hardware storage device operable to data communicate with the processor, the hardware storage device having instructions stored thereon that, when executed by the processor, cause the control device to, based at least partially on receiving a pointer request: determine pointer information relative to the control device from the ranging device and the orientation sensor, and transmit the pointer information to a base device.