Virtual Camera Swoop Trajectory Based on Terrain Variance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing navigation systems in three-dimensional environments, such as geographic information systems, face challenges in providing an optimal user experience when transitioning between aerial and ground-level perspectives, especially when dealing with varying terrain, as a single swoop trajectory may not adequately account for differences in terrain variance, leading to suboptimal viewing experiences.
Innovation Solution
The system adjusts the swoop trajectory based on terrain variance by varying the tilt angle more quickly in areas with high terrain variation, such as mountains or cities, and less so in flat areas, using a weighted average of terrain data to determine the altitude variation within the view of the virtual camera, ensuring a smooth and pleasing user experience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single swoop trajectory is used for all terrain types, then the navigation system is simple to implement, but the viewing experience is suboptimal for varying terrain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of the swoop trajectory by varying the tilt angle based on real-time terrain variance calculations. The system transitions from a static, fixed trajectory to a dynamic one that adapts to different terrain conditions, allowing the virtual camera to tilt more aggressively over rugged terrain and maintain smoother paths over flat areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by calculating terrain variance specifically within the virtual camera's current view and adjusting the tilt angle locally based on that specific region's characteristics. Different portions of the trajectory are adjusted independently according to their local terrain conditions, with the tilt factor being computed as a weighted average of terrain data points within the view.
2Measurement precision
If the tilt angle is increased quickly for high terrain variation, then the terrain details are better revealed, but the transition becomes less smooth in flat areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the tilt angle parameter dynamically based on terrain variance calculations. The system computes a tilt factor that modifies the base tilt angle according to the measured terrain variation, allowing the parameter to adapt continuously to different terrain conditions rather than remaining fixed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback by continuously monitoring terrain variance within the virtual camera's view and using that information to adjust the swoop trajectory in real-time. The terrain data is sampled at multiple points, a weighted average is computed, and this feedback loop enables the system to respond adaptively to the actual terrain conditions encountered during navigation.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments alter the swoop trajectory depending on the terrain within the view of the virtual camera. To swoop into a target, a virtual camera may be positioned at an angle relative to the upward normal vector from the target. That angle may be referred to as a tilt angle. According to embodiments, the tilt angle may increase more quickly in areas of high terrain variance (e.g., mountains or cities with tall buildings) than in areas with less terrain variance (e.g., flat plains). To determine the level of terrain variance in an area, embodiments may weigh terrain data having higher detail more heavily than terrain data having less detail.