Video Actuated Interactive Environment Using Retro-Reflective Targets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing interactive gaming systems are limited by their large size, high cost, and specificity to controlled environments, failing to effectively engage large numbers of guests in public locations like shopping malls and theme parks, and struggle to provide entertaining experiences during wait times.
Innovation Solution
A low-cost, video-actuated system using overhead projection and detection means, combined with retro-reflective targets and infrared cameras, creates interactive surfaces on various environments, allowing for immersive games and navigation assistance, enabling multiple users to interact with projected icons and characters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If complex video sensor based interactive virtual environment systems are used, then interactivity and user engagement are improved, but system cost and equipment complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical sensor systems with a video-based detection system. Instead of using tactile sensors, floor mats, or specialized input devices, the system uses standard video cameras to detect user presence and movement. This substitution dramatically reduces equipment complexity while maintaining interactivity, as video cameras are far more common and less expensive than specialized sensor systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the physical environment and users through video capture and computer-generated imagery. The video detection system captures real-world user movements, and the system generates corresponding virtual representations in the projected environment. This copying approach allows complex interactive behaviors to be achieved through software rather than requiring complex physical sensor systems.
2Ease of operation
If specialized interactive equipment like touch-sensitive tables or floor mats are used, then interactivity is improved, but adaptability to different environments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal video-based detection system that can detect user presence and movement across diverse environments without requiring specialized equipment for each setting. The same video cameras and detection algorithms work whether the projection is on a wall, floor, or other surface, making the system highly adaptable to different locations including shopping malls, theme parks, museums, and outdoor spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
By replacing environment-specific mechanical interaction devices (touch tables, floor mats) with video-based detection, the system gains universal applicability. Video cameras can detect movement in any environment with sufficient lighting, eliminating the need for specialized interactive surfaces and enabling deployment in diverse real-world settings.
3Ease of operation
If large-scale projection systems are deployed to create immersive experiences, then user engagement is improved, but system cost and portability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the interactive system into separate modular components: video detection subsystem, processing subsystem, and projection subsystem. This segmentation allows each component to be independently selected and configured based on portability requirements. The system can use standard off-the-shelf equipment that is easier to transport and deploy than large-scale fixed installations, while still creating immersive experiences through coordinated operation of the modules.
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
The system provides a cost-effective, large-scale, and versatile interactive experience that can be adapted to various surfaces, enhancing guest engagement and navigation in public spaces, while being portable and capable of handling multiple users and dynamic environments.
Implementation Method 1
A low-cost video-based detection system tracks users wearing retro-reflective targets
Implementation Method 2
An overhead video projection and detection means is preferably tied to a computer processing means which can resolve the presence of human participants
Data Source
AI summary
A surface-based interactive environment that utilizes low cost equipment to create a highly interactive environment for participants. The game can include electronic versions of traditional games, such as air hockey, football, soccer, and the like. The game can also include one or more electronically generated characters with whom the participants can interact. The system utilizes a high-mounted projector to create the game environment and/or generate the characters. A remotely mounted infrared light source and infrared camera are used to detect the participants as they move around within the interaction area of the game.