3D Virtual Interface for Building Control via Visible Light
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing building system control and electronic commerce systems are not user-friendly, requiring physical presence and extensive training due to complex folder structures and cultural barriers, and lack intuitive interfaces for managing building systems and engaging in commerce.
Innovation Solution
A cyber-life electronic commerce system with an operating exchange that uses a visible light embedded communication system to interact with a computer server, allowing users to control building systems and engage in commerce through a 3D virtual interface, eliminating the need for physical presence and complex training.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional building system control device is used, then the system can be controlled, but the user must physically walk to the device and requires extensive training to locate and operate it
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the physical building environment in a 3D graphical interface. Users interact with virtual representations of control devices (lights, thermostats, cameras) that mirror the physical system's layout and functionality. This virtual copy eliminates the need for users to physically locate control devices while maintaining full control capability through the graphical interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a computer with graphical user interface as an intermediary between the user and the physical building control devices. This intermediary translates user interactions (mouse clicks, keyboard inputs) into commands that control physical devices remotely, eliminating the need for direct physical interaction with control devices and reducing training requirements.
2Device complexity
If a complex folder structure is used to store building system control items, then the system can be organized, but extensive training is required to access and manipulate control items
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a visual copy of the building environment where control items are represented as graphical icons placed in their spatial context. Instead of requiring users to navigate through abstract folder structures, the virtual environment displays control items in their physical locations with intuitive graphical representations, making access immediate and training-free.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a hierarchical one-dimensional folder structure to a spatial two-dimensional graphical interface. Control items are displayed on a virtual floor plan or 3D model of the building, allowing users to locate and access controls based on their physical location rather than navigating through nested folders. This dimensional change makes the system intuitively understandable without training.
3Productivity
If physical presence at a retail location is required for commerce, then transactions can be completed, but the user must travel and physically navigate to the location
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the retail environment with 3D graphical representations of products, shelves, and store layout. Users can navigate this virtual replica using a computer interface, interact with product information, and complete purchases without physically traveling to the retail location. The virtual environment maintains spatial relationships and product details, providing an authentic shopping experience remotely.
4Ease of operation
If a traditional e-commerce website is used, then users can browse items, but the interface requires using actuators like mouse or button and typing payment information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replicates the physical retail shopping experience within a virtual environment. Users can walk through virtual aisles, pick up virtual products, examine them in detail, and interact with virtual cashiers in a manner that mirrors actual shopping behavior. This immersive virtual replica provides more intuitive interaction than traditional websites, reducing the need for complex input methods.
Data Source
AI summary
A cyber-life electronic commerce and system control device is disclosed having a three dimensional or other image of an area stored on a server. An operating exchange interfaces with the image to enable an individual to manipulate virtual control elements within the operating exchange. A visible light embedded communication system is used as the backbone to communicate commands from the operating exchange to a building operating system control item in order to alter the setting or status of a building operating system. The operating exchange may also be used by a consumer to virtually explore a cyber-retail location and to engage in commercial activities.