VR Controller Hand Retainer and Sensor Nesting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current VR system controllers face challenges in optimizing ease of use and functionality while meeting competing design constraints, such as maintaining a secure grip and accurately tracking user movements for immersive experiences.
Innovation Solution
A controller design featuring a hand retainer and tracking member with embedded sensors, including infrared light sensors and proximity sensors, that securely fits in the user's hand and tracks finger motions, allowing for precise control and intuitive operation within VR environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a hand retainer is added to secure the user's hand, then grip security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hand retainer is integrated within the controller housing structure, with the retainer strap passing through openings in the housing. This nesting approach allows the hand retainer to be incorporated without adding significant external complexity, as the retainer components are embedded within the existing controller form factor.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are embedded in the tracking member, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple sensor types (infrared light sensors, proximity sensors, and force sensing resistors) are integrated into the tracking member and handle structure. The sensors are combined within the existing controller architecture, with the tracking member serving as a unified component that houses multiple sensing elements rather than separate tracking devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The tracking member serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the controller, acts as a mounting surface for various sensors (infrared, proximity, force sensing), and enables comprehensive finger motion tracking. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and minimizes overall device complexity.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the outer shell partially wraps the tubular housing, then protection from impacts is improved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The outer shell is designed to partially wrap the tubular housing, providing impact protection specifically at the handle and tracking member areas where sensors are located. This localized protection approach protects critical components without completely enclosing the controller, thereby maintaining ease of operation and access to controls.
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
Enhances user interaction by maintaining a secure grip, accurately tracking hand and finger movements, and enabling advanced VR functionalities like throwing and grasping actions, while ensuring comfort and protection from impacts.
Implementation Method 1
The tracking member includes an infrared light sensor
Implementation Method 2
The tracking member includes a proximity sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A controller for an electronic system includes a controller body having a head and a handle, and a tracking member that is fixed to the controller body. The head includes at least one thumb-operated control, and the handle has a tubular housing that is partially wrapped by an outer shell. The controller includes a hand retainer configured to physically bias the user's palm against the outer shell. A first plurality of tracking transducers is disposed in the tracking member, the first plurality of tracking sensors being coupled with the electronic system via electromagnetic radiation. An array of proximity sensors is spatially distributed on the outer shell, the array of proximity sensors being responsive to a proximity of the user's fingers to the outer shell.