Virtual Camera Positioning in 3D Wayfinding Maps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for positioning and orienting virtual cameras in 3D maps within facilities are inefficient, as they struggle to intuitively fill the display with desired points of interest, leading to aesthetically unpleasing and less effective wayfinding experiences.
Innovation Solution
A method that defines points of interest, generates a point cloud collection, and calculates a desired position and orientation for the virtual camera using a rotation matrix and bounding shapes to ensure all relevant points are visible within the camera's field of view, allowing for intuitive and visually appealing 3D map presentation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional 2D map arrangement methods are used on 3D maps, then the implementation is simple, but the display effectiveness and intuitiveness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the map arrangement problem from 2D parameters (latitude, longitude, zoom) to 3D parameters by introducing a virtual camera with position (x, y, z) and orientation (heading, pitch, roll) variables. This parameter expansion enables effective 3D map display while maintaining automated control similar to 2D methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a virtual camera as an intermediary between the user and the 3D map data. The camera acts as a mediator that translates user intent into appropriate 3D view configurations, handling the complexity of spatial arrangement while presenting a simplified interface to users.
2Measurement precision
If manual positioning of multiple 3D objects is performed, then the precision of point of interest display is improved, but the time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service automation where the system automatically calculates optimal camera positions and orientations based on selected points of interest. The automated algorithm computes the bounding volume of selected objects and determines camera parameters that ensure all points are visible, eliminating manual positioning requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary calculations by pre-computing bounding volumes (such as minimum bounding boxes or spheres) for sets of 3D objects. These pre-computed geometric enclosures are then used to quickly determine camera positions that guarantee visibility of all relevant points, avoiding time-consuming iterative adjustments.
3Ease of operation
If arbitrary zoom and translation values are used, then the operation is simple, but the aesthetic quality and usefulness of the display deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the system evaluates the selected points of interest, calculates their spatial distribution, and adjusts camera parameters based on this feedback. The algorithm uses the geometric relationships between points to determine optimal viewing angles and distances, ensuring aesthetically pleasing and useful displays.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs asymmetric camera positioning and orientation strategies tailored to the specific spatial distribution of selected points of interest. Rather than using symmetric or default view angles, the system calculates asymmetric camera parameters that optimally frame the irregularly distributed 3D objects, enhancing display quality.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for positioning and orienting a virtual camera relative to an electronic map are disclosed. The system includes a communication network, a wayfinding server, and one or more user devices. The wayfinding server includes a wayfinding storage unit for storing electronic maps. The wayfinding processor is configured for providing an electronic map to the user devices. Each user device includes a user processor operatively coupled to a user memory and is configured for: receiving the electronic map; determining a set of target objects within the electronic map; determining a desired orientation of the virtual camera; generating a point cloud collection; generating a rotation matrix; generating an oriented point cloud; generating a three-dimensional bounding shape; calculating a desired position and orientation for the virtual camera; and providing the electronic map having a view from the virtual camera at the desired position and orientation for display.