Virtual Object Floating Transitions for Visibility

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Solution Overview

Problem

In virtual universes, objects can be obstructed from view due to their position and characteristics, making them difficult for users to see, as current systems do not enable effective tracking or modification of object visibility within a user's viewable field.

Innovation Solution

A computer-implemented method and apparatus that tracks an avatar's location relative to objects and initiates flotation actions based on trigger conditions, using flotation rules to optimize the object's location and orientation for improved visibility, such as floating or repositioning the object to avoid obstructions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If objects are placed on surfaces in virtual universes, then they maintain stable positions, but they become obstructed from view by other objects and difficult for users to see

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveobject position stabilityVSAvoidobject visibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dimensionality change by transitioning objects from a 2D surface plane to a 3D spatial position. Objects are floated above the surface at optimized heights and positions, utilizing the vertical dimension and horizontal positioning to escape visual obstructions caused by other objects on the surface, thereby improving visibility while maintaining stable positioned through virtual positioning systems

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

2Stability of the object's composition

If objects remain stationary on surfaces, then they maintain their original location, but users may not see them due to obstructions and their value decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveobject location stabilityVSAvoidobject visibility duration
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamics by creating a floating transition system that dynamically repositions objects from stationary surface locations to optimized floating positions. The system continuously monitors avatar positions and object visibility, dynamically adjusting object locations to maximize visibility duration while maintaining stable positioning through controlled floating transitions rather than random movement

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Productivity

If objects are frequently repositioned to improve visibility, then user viewing increases, but the complexity of tracking and managing object positions increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveobject visibilityVSAvoidtracking system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies self-service by implementing an automated floating transition system that autonomously tracks avatar positions, determines optimal object positions, and executes floating transitions without manual intervention. The system self-manages the complexity of tracking and positioning by using automated algorithms to calculate optimal floating positions based on avatar locations and object characteristics, reducing the need for complex manual tracking mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS8212809B2Floating transitions
Publication Date: 2012.07.03 KYNDRYL INC
  • US8212809B2 patent drawing
  • US8212809B2 patent drawing
  • US8212809B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A computer implemented method and apparatus for floating object transitions. In one embodiment, tracking data identifying a location of an avatar in relation to a range of an object in a virtual universe is received. The range comprises a viewable field. In response to the tracking data indicating an occurrence of a trigger condition, a set of flotation rules associated with the trigger condition is identified. An optimal location and orientation of the object is identified for each flotation action in a set of flotation actions associated with the set of flotation rules. The set of flotation actions are initiated to float the object above a surface. The object changes the location and orientation of the object in accordance with the set of flotation actions associated with the set of flotation rules.