Telepresence Actuator for Precise Remote Object Pointing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Video conferencing and telepresence systems face challenges in allowing remote users to physically interact with objects or environments, as traditional methods of pointing or indicating locations are not easily correlated between remote and local environments, leading to difficulties in identification or manipulation of objects.
Innovation Solution
A telepresence system comprising an interactive device at a local location and a user device at a remote location, where the interactive device is actuated by user inputs to generate physical outputs, such as light or mechanical pointers, allowing remote users to interact with objects in the local environment through a network connection, with features like mobility modules and sensors for obstacle avoidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional video conferencing systems are used for remote communication, then digital connection between locations is achieved, but physical interaction with objects in the local environment cannot be performed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an actuator as an intermediary device that translates remote user inputs into physical actions in the local environment. The actuator receives control signals from the remote user device and performs corresponding physical operations, serving as a mediator between the digital remote interface and the physical local environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical pointing devices (like laser pointers) with a more sophisticated actuator system that can perform diverse physical actions. This substitution enables richer interaction capabilities while maintaining remote control, moving from simple indication to actual physical manipulation.
2Measurement precision
If remote users point at objects through camera views, then object identification is attempted, but precise correlation between pointing location and actual object is difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the actuator's position and actions are continuously monitored and communicated back to the remote user device. This allows the remote user to see the actual state of the actuator and make precise adjustments, creating a closed-loop control system that improves pointing and interaction accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator incorporates visual indicators (such as colored lights or markers) that change based on its state, position, or operational mode. These visual changes provide immediate feedback to the remote user about the actuator's current status, making it easier to correlate remote controls with local actions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If actuators are added to enable physical output generation, then interaction capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is designed as a multi-functional device that can perform various types of physical actions (movement, manipulation, indication) through a single integrated system. This universal design allows one actuator to replace multiple specialized devices, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator system incorporates dynamic components that can adjust their configuration and behavior based on operational requirements. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to perform multiple functions without requiring separate fixed mechanisms for each function, thereby managing complexity while enhancing versatility.
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 remote users to engage more interactively with local environments by generating precise physical outputs, improving the accuracy and clarity of interactions, overcoming limitations of traditional remote digital connections.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator includes a light emitter including one or more of a laser, a light-emitting diode, a fluorescent light, an incandescent light, an infrared light source, an ultraviolet light source, and is configured to identify an area or object within the first location by illumination.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates generally to a system for remote interactions. A telepresence system may include an interactive device located at a first location; a user device located at a second location separate from the first location. The user device may be configured to receive a user input. An actuator may be communicatively coupled to the user device and the interactive device, the actuator being configured to generate a physical output at the first location based on the user input at the second location.