Location-Based Virtual Object Access in Collaborative VR
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing virtual reality and augmented reality technologies lack effective methods for enabling collaborative sessions with selective access to virtual objects based on geographical proximity, limiting immersive and interactive experiences.
Innovation Solution
A collaborative method is implemented where virtual objects are associated with geographical locations, allowing access based on proximity, using computer vision and object tracking to enhance interaction and immersion in VR environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If virtual objects are made accessible to all users in VR collaborative sessions, then user interaction and collaboration are enhanced, but security and access control are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements location-based access control where different virtual objects have different accessibility properties based on their geographical locations. Users can only access virtual objects when physically present at the corresponding real-world locations, creating localized access zones that balance open collaboration with security control
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces a geographical location intermediary between users and virtual objects. Instead of direct universal access, users must first be at the correct physical location to trigger access to the associated virtual object, mediating between collaboration needs and security requirements
2Reliability
If virtual objects are associated with geographical locations requiring physical proximity for access, then security and selective access are improved, but user accessibility and collaboration flexibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the virtual environment dynamic by linking virtual object accessibility to users' real-time physical locations. As users move through physical space, their access to virtual objects dynamically changes, allowing collaboration flexibility within the constraints of geographical proximity requirements
3Reliability
If location-based access control is implemented for virtual objects, then security is enhanced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the universal functionality of mobile devices' existing location services (GPS, accelerometers, gyroscopes) to implement security control. Instead of adding specialized hardware, the system repurposes multi-functional mobile device capabilities for location-based access control, reducing overall system complexity
Data Source
AI summary
Collaborative sessions in which access to added virtual content is selectively made available to participants/users. A participant (the host) creates a new session and invites participants to join. The invited participants receive an invitation to join the session. The session creator (i.e., the host) and other approved participants can access the contents of a session. The session identifies a new participant when they join the session, and concurrently notifies the other participants in the session that a new participant is waiting for permission to access the added virtual content. The host or approved participants can set up the new participant with permissions for accessing added virtual content.