Vehicle Control Switching for Immersive AR-VR Driving Simulation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current augmented-virtual reality driving simulators lack the ability to seamlessly integrate real vehicle controls with virtual simulation environments, limiting the immersive and interactive experience for users.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that configures a vehicle with control features like a steering wheel, accelerator pedal, and transmission gear selector to function in both actual operation and simulation modes, using a computerized simulation controller to monitor and operate the augmented-virtual reality simulator, allowing users to interact with virtual environments through real vehicle controls.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If real vehicle controls are integrated with virtual simulation environment, then user engagement and simulation realism are enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle controls are designed to serve dual purposes: functioning as actual vehicle controls during normal operation and as simulation input devices when activated for virtual reality simulation. The steering wheel, accelerator pedal, brake pedal, and transmission gear selector can operate in either mode, eliminating the need for separate simulation control devices and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
A controller serves as an intermediary component that manages the switching between actual operation mode and simulation mode. The controller receives inputs from the vehicle controls and routes them appropriately based on the current mode, while also managing the virtual reality headset display. This intermediary simplifies the integration complexity by providing a centralized control point.
2Adaptability or versatility
If control features are made multi-functional for both actual operation and simulation, then adaptability improves, but reliability may deteriorate due to mode switching
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between actual operation mode and simulation mode based on user activation. The controller monitors the vehicle's operational state and control feature usage patterns, automatically transitioning modes as needed. This dynamic adaptation allows the same control features to reliably serve different functions without requiring manual reconfiguration or complex safety interlocks.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller continuously monitors inputs from the vehicle controls and the state of the virtual reality simulation system, using this feedback to determine appropriate mode transitions. When the simulation is activated, the controller recognizes the change and switches controls to simulation mode; when deactivated, it returns to actual operation mode. This feedback mechanism ensures reliable mode switching without requiring additional safety switches or complex control logic.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for an augmented-virtual reality simulator using a vehicle is provided. The system includes the vehicle including a control feature configured for selective use in an actual operation mode and in a simulation mode. In the actual operation mode, the control feature is utilized to control actual operation of the vehicle. In the simulation mode, the control feature is utilized as an input device to the augmented-virtual reality simulator. The system further includes a computerized simulation controller. The controller includes programming to monitor activation of the augmented-virtual reality simulator, command activation of the simulation mode based upon the activation of the simulator, monitor inputs to the control feature, and operate the simulator based upon the inputs to the control feature. The system further includes a headset configured for being worn by a user providing a graphical rendering to the user based upon the simulator.