Remote Telepresence Actuation for Precise Physical 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 identifiable or correlated across digital connections.
Innovation Solution
A telepresence system comprising an interactive device at a first location and a user device at a second location, where an actuator, potentially a light emitter or mechanical pointer, is controlled remotely to generate physical outputs or movements based on user inputs, enabling precise interaction with objects or environments through illumination, movement, or virtual outputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional video conferencing methods are used for remote interaction, then digital connectivity is established, but the ability to physically indicate or interact with objects in the remote environment is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary device (such as a robotic device or indicator mechanism) located in the remote environment that acts as a mediator between the remote user and the local objects. This intermediary can physically indicate, point to, or interact with objects in the remote environment based on user commands, thereby restoring the physical indication capability that is otherwise lost in traditional video conferencing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical pointing methods (such as hand gestures or physical pointers) with digital or automated mechanisms. The system uses electronic communication to transmit user commands to an automated device in the remote environment, which then performs the physical indication action, substituting the mechanical human action with an automated system.
2Loss of information
If a remote user points through a virtually connected camera, then an attempt is made to indicate a location, but the pointing is not easily identified or correlated with an object or location on the other end
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the system provides visual or digital confirmation that the user's pointing or indication is accurately correlated with the intended object or location. The remote environment's camera or sensors detect the indicator's position and feed back this information to the user, allowing for precise correlation and adjustment of the pointing action.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent may use visual indicators such as color changes or illuminated markers on objects to enhance the correlation between the user's pointing action and the target object. The indicator device could emit light or change color to clearly mark the selected object, making it easily identifiable and correlated with the user's intention.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional video conferencing is used, then digital connection is established, but physical interaction with objects in the remote environment cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the interaction system into separate functional components: a control interface for the remote user, a communication system for transmitting commands, and an execution device in the remote environment that performs physical actions. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together to provide versatile physical interaction capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal system that can perform multiple types of physical interactions (pointing, indicating, moving, manipulating) through a single integrated platform. The automated device in the remote environment can execute various actions based on user commands, providing multi-functional capability that adapts to different interaction needs.
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
Enhances remote interaction capabilities by allowing users to accurately identify and manipulate objects or locations within a local environment, improving the effectiveness of digital connectivity and collaboration in settings like content production or remote scouting.
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
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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.