Virtual Object Joint Control via Acceleration Sensor Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing information processing systems cannot effectively control complex objects in virtual spaces using a single input device, as they can only manage a single type of motion value for multiple object parts.

Innovation Solution

A computer-readable storage medium with an information processing program that calculates the orientation and movement of multiple connection points in a complex object based on input device motion, allowing each part of the object to perform actions accordingly, using acceleration data from an acceleration sensor to determine the object's shape and movement in a virtual space.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a single input device is used to control multiple parts of a complex object, then the device complexity is reduced, but the control precision and ability to manage multiple object parts simultaneously deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinput device configurationVSAvoidcontrol precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the control of complex objects by dividing the object into multiple connection points (joints) that can be independently controlled. Each connection point is assigned a specific control function, allowing the single input device to manage multiple object parts through segmented control zones. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining simple input device configuration while achieving precise control over multiple object parts through spatial segmentation of control responsibilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a spatial dimension to control by defining control zones in three-dimensional space around the input device. Different connection points of the complex object are assigned to different spatial zones, allowing simultaneous control of multiple parts by moving the input device to different positions in space. This adds a spatial dimension to the control interface, enabling a single device to manage multiple object parts without increasing device complexity.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If the object is complexly composed of a plurality of parts, then the object functionality is enhanced, but the ability to control each part individually using a single input device deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveobject complexityVSAvoidcontrol capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the complex object into multiple connection points, each representing a controllable part. By dividing the object into distinct segments with specific control zones assigned to each connection point, the system enables individual control of complex object parts through a single input device. This segmentation allows the object to maintain its complex functionality while improving ease of operation through organized, zone-based control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent makes the single input device universal by enabling it to control multiple different connection points of the complex object through spatial positioning. The input device serves multiple functions by being able to select and control different object parts based on its position in space relative to defined control zones. This multi-functionality allows one device to manage complex objects with multiple parts without requiring separate control mechanisms for each part.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Speed

If motion data from acceleration sensor is used to control object movement, then the responsiveness and realism of object action is improved, but the calculation complexity for determining orientation and position of multiple connection points increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveresponsivenessVSAvoidcalculation processing
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the calculation process by handling each connection point independently based on its assigned control zone. Instead of calculating the position and orientation of all connection points simultaneously, the system processes each connection point separately by determining which control zone the input device is in and applying the corresponding motion data. This segmented calculation approach maintains responsiveness by processing only relevant connection points while reducing overall calculation complexity through division of computational tasks.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies partial action by calculating and updating only those connection points that are currently active or relevant based on the input device's position in control zones. Rather than continuously calculating the state of all connection points, the system performs calculations only for the subset of connection points that need updating at any given moment. This partial calculation approach maintains responsiveness by quickly updating relevant data while reducing overall computational complexity by avoiding unnecessary calculations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables complex objects in virtual spaces to perform actions in accordance with input device motion, providing a more intuitive and realistic operation experience by accurately calculating and displaying the object's movement and orientation based on input device data.

Implementation Method 1

The information processing program causes the computer to execute: an input data obtaining step (S3); In the input data obtaining step, the computer obtains input data (acceleration data) representing the input value

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAcceleration sensor detection: Accelerometer

Data Source

PatentUS8525783B2Storage medium storing information processing program and information processing device
Publication Date: 2013.09.03 NINTENDO CO LTD
  • US8525783B2 patent drawing
  • US8525783B2 patent drawing
  • US8525783B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An object has a plurality of joints 51 to 55 which are connected to each other. A game apparatus calculates, when one of the plurality of joints having a fixed position with respect to the object is set as a reference joint, an orientation of an adjacent joint connected to the reference joint with respect to the reference joint (an orientation of an adjacent bone) based on input data. Then, the game apparatus moves a position of the adjacent joint connected to the reference joint based on the calculated orientation, and further moves the joints other than the reference joint and the adjacent joint in accordance with the adjacent joint being moved. Furthermore, the game apparatus causes a display device to display the object in which a shape thereof is determined based on positions of the aforementioned joints which have been moved.