Dual-Input VR Controller for 6DoF and Absolute Motion Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing input controllers for virtual environments often lack sufficient controllability, especially in applications requiring up to six dimensions, as they may not provide intuitive and ergonomic control over movements, leading to mixed feedback and unsuitable control schemes for certain types of virtual environments.

Innovation Solution

An input controller comprising a first body with a resiliently suspended input device allowing 6 degrees of freedom movement and a second body with a pressure pad providing absolute 2-3 degrees of freedom input, designed for ergonomic and intuitive control, with the first input device springing back to its origin for tactile feedback and easy return, and the second input device allowing precise absolute movements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single input device is used for position control in virtual environments, then the device structure is simple, but the controllability is insufficient for six-dimensional control requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovecontrollabilityVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The input controller is divided into two separate input devices: a first input device for position control and a second input device for orientation control. This segmentation allows each device to specialize in specific control dimensions, achieving six-dimensional controllability while keeping individual device structures relatively simple.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The input controller system is designed to perform multiple control functions through two input devices that can work independently or in combination. The first input device handles position control while the second handles orientation, creating a universal control system that adapts to various virtual environment control requirements.

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

2Ease of operation

If motion control is used for intuitive control, then the control is intuitive for certain applications, but it is insufficient or unsuitable for certain types of virtual environments

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveintuitive controlVSAvoidsuitability for different virtual environments
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The control system dynamically adapts between different control modes by providing two distinct input devices. Users can switch between motion control (first input device) and direct manipulation control (second input device) depending on the virtual environment requirements, making the system flexible and adaptable rather than static.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes control parameters by selecting different input devices for different control tasks. The first input device provides motion control parameters while the second provides direct manipulation parameters, allowing the system to adapt control characteristics to match different virtual environment requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If the first input device is resiliently suspended to provide tactile feedback, then the return to origin is easy and intuitive, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereturn to originVSAvoidsuspension mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The first input device is equipped with a resilient suspension mechanism that automatically returns the device to its origin position when released. This self-service feature eliminates the need for manual reset operations, providing intuitive control while the complexity is confined to a relatively simple mechanical suspension system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 efficient and intuitive control in virtual environments with the first input device facilitating complex movements and the second input device providing precise actions, enhancing user experience by reducing mixed feedback and improving stability and ergonomics.

Implementation Method 1

a resilient suspension mechanism arranged to return the first input device to its origin position when the first input device is moved and released

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP3277393B1Game controller
Publication Date: 2021.12.15 MOVEAIM AB
  • EP3277393B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3277393B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP3277393B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

The present invention relates an input controller (100) for interacting with a virtual environment, and more specifically to an input controller comprising a first body (102) and a second body (104) connected to the first body, wherein the first body comprises a first input device (106) and the second body comprises a second input device (108). The first input device provides input control to the virtual environment with a first movement with at least 5 degrees of freedom in the virtual environment, the first movement being a relative movement, and the second input device provides input control to the virtual environment with a second movement with at least 2 degrees of freedom in the virtual environment, the second movement being an absolute movement.