Virtual Graffiti Boundary Definition in Augmented Reality

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing virtual and augmented reality systems lack an efficient method for creating and managing virtual graffiti that can be easily placed and viewed at specific locations, limiting user interaction and experience.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus that allow users to define boundaries using location points, receive and fit images within these boundaries, and transmit the virtual graffiti to a server for display in augmented reality, enabling users to create and view virtual messages at designated locations with restricted access.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If virtual graffiti is created using traditional messaging systems, then messages can be sent to specific locations, but the user experience remains limited to simple text and basic media

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser experienceVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses augmented reality to create virtual copies of graffiti that appear overlaid on the real-world environment. Instead of simply sending text messages to locations, the system creates visual replicas of graffiti art that users can view through their mobile devices, transforming abstract location data into tangible visual experiences that enhance user engagement while maintaining system manageability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from two-dimensional text messages to three-dimensional augmented reality experiences by overlaying virtual graffiti onto the real-world environment captured by the camera. This dimensional transformation allows users to interact with messages in a more immersive and engaging way, significantly enhancing user experience without requiring complex additional hardware

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Manufacturing precision

If virtual graffiti boundaries are defined manually, then precise placement is achieved, but the creation process becomes time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegraffiti placement precisionVSAvoidcreation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically defines graffiti boundaries by detecting edges and contours in the captured image, eliminating the need for manual coordinate input. The augmented reality software autonomously identifies suitable surfaces and calculates boundary parameters, allowing users to create precise virtual graffiti placements with minimal effort and in significantly reduced time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical boundary definition with automated image processing algorithms. Instead of requiring users to manually specify coordinates and draw boundaries, the system uses computer vision techniques to automatically detect edges, contours, and suitable surfaces in the captured image, achieving precise placement automatically and rapidly

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of operation

If virtual graffiti is made accessible to all users, then visibility is maximized, but unauthorized access and inappropriate viewing occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegraffiti accessibilityVSAvoidunauthorized access
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements location-based access control where virtual graffiti is made visible only to users who are physically present at or near the specific geographic location where the graffiti was created. The system checks the user's GPS coordinates against the graffiti's location data, ensuring that only authorized users at the intended location can view the content, thereby preventing unauthorized access while maintaining ease of operation for legitimate users

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The system pre-configures access control parameters and location restrictions when the virtual graffiti is created. By establishing geographic boundaries and authorized user lists in advance, the system automatically filters visibility based on user location and permissions, preventing unauthorized access before it can occur while allowing seamless access for authorized users

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP3370445B1Method and apparatus for creating virtual graffiti in a mobile virtual and augmented reality system
Publication Date: 2022.06.29 GOOGLE TECHNOLOGY HOLDINGS LLC
  • EP3370445B1 patent drawingFigure 1
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AI summary

A method and apparatus is provided for easily creating virtual graffiti that will be left for a particular device to view. During operation a device will be placed near a first point that is used to define a boundary for the virtual graffiti. The device will locate the first point, and use the point to define the boundary. The device will receive an image that is to be used as virtual graffiti, and will fit the image within the boundary of the virtual graffiti. For example, the device may be consecutively placed near four points that will define a polygon to be used as the boundary for the virtual graffiti. An image will then be received, and the image will be fit within the polygon.