Theremin Hand Tracking Without Line-of-Sight Cameras
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hand tracking systems in amusement park rides and interactive attractions rely on camera-based sensors that require a direct line of sight, failing when the hand is not visible.
Innovation Solution
A theremin-based sensing system using electromagnetic fields to track hand presence and motion without requiring a direct line of sight, utilizing a theremin circuit with antennas to detect varying positions and output analog signals processed into digital data for various applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If camera-based sensors are used for hand tracking, then the system can detect hand presence and motion, but the system requires a direct line of sight with the person's hand which limits its reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces optical-based camera systems with electromagnetic field-based theremin sensors. The theremin circuit uses electromagnetic fields to detect hand position and motion without requiring visual line of sight, thereby maintaining reliability while eliminating the line of sight constraint that limited adaptability of camera-based systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from optical reflection (camera-based) to electromagnetic field interaction (theremin-based). By measuring changes in electromagnetic field properties such as frequency and amplitude caused by hand proximity, the system achieves reliable hand detection without line of sight requirements, resolving the contradiction between reliability and adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If theremin-based sensing is implemented, then line of sight requirements are eliminated, but the system complexity increases due to additional circuitry and signal processing
Solution Approach 1:
The theremin circuit serves multiple functions: it generates electromagnetic fields for detection, senses hand position through field interaction, and produces output signals for control applications. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate sensing and processing components, thereby achieving line of sight independence while managing system complexity through functional integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The theremin-based system uses the human hand itself as the sensing element through its interaction with electromagnetic fields. The hand's natural conductive properties and movement through the field provide the sensing mechanism without requiring additional sensors or complex processing hardware, thus achieving adaptability while keeping complexity manageable.
3Adaptability or versatility
If wireless triggering through cables in water is enabled, then user interaction versatility is enhanced, but the risk of electrical safety hazards increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces direct electrical contact-based triggering with electromagnetic field-based wireless triggering. The theremin circuit detects hand proximity and motion through electromagnetic fields, enabling triggering of interactions without physical electrical contact. This eliminates safety hazards associated with electrical contact in water environments while maintaining interaction versatility through contactless control.
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 hand tracking without line-of-sight constraints, allowing for interactive and safety systems, and enabling wireless triggering through insulated cables and water mediums, enhancing user interaction and safety in amusement park environments.
Implementation Method 1
The theremin circuit is configured to detect a varying position of a body part relative to the at least one antenna, and output to the signal processor an analog signal having a varying frequency or amplitude based on the varying position of the body part
Implementation Method 2
the at least one antenna wirelessly attenuates to the cable
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the disclosure relate to methods, apparatus, and systems for tracking a presence of a body part via a theremin-based sensor and outputting a usable signal. For example, a tracking system includes a signal processor and a theremin circuit including at least one antenna. The theremin circuit detects a varying position of a body part relative to the at least one antenna and outputs an analog signal to the signal processor having a varying frequency or amplitude based on the varying position of the body part relative to the at least one antenna. The digital processor determines a rate of change of the varying frequency or amplitude of the analog signal, determines at least a velocity of the body part based on the rate of change, and outputs a digital signal corresponding to at least the velocity to a system or device coupled to the theremin-based tracking system.