Spatial Input Subsystem for Large Display Interaction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing user input technologies are not well-suited for large display screens, requiring users to be in close proximity and physically move to interact with touch screens, which is impractical for large screens like flat-panel televisions.
Innovation Solution
A spatial input subsystem that uses a handheld user input device emitting discrete signals, such as infrared or visible light, to allow users to provide spatial input from a distance, with a spatial input subsystem detecting and processing these signals to control operations on a large display screen.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a touch screen interface is used on a large display screen, then the display screen can provide comprehensive visual output, but the user must position herself in close proximity to the display screen to be within reach to touch the touch screen interface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary input device (such as a remote control, mouse, or tracking device) that acts as a mediator between the user and the large display screen. This intermediary device allows the user to provide input from a distance without needing to be physically close to or touch the display screen, thus resolving the contradiction between large display area and user accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical touch interface system with a non-contact input system that uses optical, electromagnetic, or other remote sensing mechanisms. This substitution eliminates the need for physical contact with the display screen, enabling users to interact with the large display from a distance and resolving the accessibility problem.
2Area of stationary object
If the display screen is made large enough to provide comprehensive visual output, then more content can be displayed, but the viewer may be required to move her body relative to the display screen in order to be able to physically reach and touch certain positions on the touch screen interface
Solution Approach 1:
By introducing an intermediary input device that can be operated from a distance, the system eliminates the need for users to move their bodies to reach different positions on the display screen. The intermediary device serves as a proxy that transmits input signals without requiring physical proximity to the large display area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions the interaction from a two-dimensional touch surface to a three-dimensional space where users can operate input devices from various distances and angles. This dimensional change allows users to interact with the display without needing to physically move along the surface of the screen.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional input devices are used with large display screens, then the input devices can be simple and compact, but they are not suitable for distant interaction with large display screens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent develops input devices that are designed to be universal and adaptable to various display sizes and interaction distances. These devices incorporate multiple functions and mechanisms (such as optical tracking, electromagnetic sensing, or wireless communication) that enable them to work effectively with large display screens from distant positions, making them suitable for the specific requirements of large display systems.
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 users to interact with large display screens from a distance, providing practical and efficient spatial input control, suitable for large screens like flat-panel televisions.
Implementation Method 1
A spatial input subsystem may detect and process the spatial input provided by the handheld user input device and output data representative of the spatial input
Implementation Method 2
A spatial input subsystem that uses a handheld user input device emitting discrete signals, such as infrared or visible light
Data Source
AI summary
An exemplary system includes a handheld user input device configured to emit a pointing signal and a selection signal from within a physical user space and directed at a display screen. The exemplary system further includes a spatial input subsystem configured to detect the pointing signal, determine a physical position within the physical user space based on the detected pointing signal, map the determined physical position within the physical user space to a cursor position on the display screen, output data representative of the cursor position for use by a display subsystem associated with the display screen, detect the selection signal, and output, in response to the selection signal, data representative of a selection command for use by the display subsystem. Corresponding systems, methods, and apparatuses are also disclosed.