Virtualizing Electronic Devices for Immersive VR Interaction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users immersed in virtual reality environments cannot interact with physical electronic devices, such as smartphones or computers, as these devices are not perceivable or usable within the virtual space, leading to a disconnect between virtual and physical interactions.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that allows electronic devices to be virtualized for interaction in virtual environments by detecting devices within a portal zone, creating a virtual object that corresponds to the physical device, and binding interactive components to enable interaction data communication between the virtual and physical realms, allowing users to interact with virtual representations of physical devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If users are immersed in virtual reality environments, then immersive experience is improved, but ability to interact with physical electronic devices deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates virtual copies of physical electronic devices that can be interacted with within the virtual reality environment. The system detects physical devices, generates corresponding virtual device representations, and maps interactions between the virtual and physical domains, allowing users to access device functionality without breaking immersion
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a computing device as an intermediary that bridges the virtual and physical worlds. This intermediary detects physical devices, creates virtual representations, and facilitates bidirectional communication between virtual interactions and physical device responses, enabling seamless cross-reality interaction
2Adaptability or versatility
If virtual objects are used in virtual environments, then virtual interaction capability is improved, but perception of physical objects deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates virtual copies of physical electronic devices with preserved interactive functionality. These virtual copies maintain the essential characteristics and interaction capabilities of the physical devices, allowing users to interact with virtual representations while the physical devices remain accessible and functional
3Ease of operation
If electronic devices are virtualized for virtual environment interaction, then usability within virtual space is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal system that can handle multiple types of electronic devices through a common virtualization framework. The computing device is designed to detect various physical devices, generate corresponding virtual representations, and manage bidirectional interactions across different device types, reducing the need for device-specific implementations
Data Source
AI summary
In various embodiments, computerized methods and systems for virtualizing electronic devices for utilization in virtual environments are provided. An electronic device located within the vicinity is detected and identified. A virtual object that corresponds to the identified electronic device is obtained for rendering within an immersive virtual environment. The virtual object can include an interactive portion that, when rendered, can provide an interactive virtual experience with what appears to be a virtualized instance of the identified electronic device. The interactive portion of the virtual object is bound to a corresponding interactive portion of the identified electronic device, so that interaction data is properly communicated and interpreted therebetween. The virtual object, having its interactive portion bound to the interactive portion of the identified electronic device, is rendered in virtual space, such that virtual interactions therewith facilitate real interactions with the identified electronic device.