Modular VR Physical Device Interface for EFD Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional virtual reality systems face challenges in easily expanding environmental feedback devices (EFDs) due to hard-wired control configurations, which limit modularity and make software configuration difficult for developers.
Innovation Solution
A modular, scalable physical device interface with a microprocessor board, power board, and communication ports that allows for flexible connection and control of EFDs, including fans, scent emitters, and heating units, using Ethernet and USB ports for communication, and automatic IP address determination for network configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional hard-wired control configurations are used to control environmental feedback devices, then the system provides stable control, but the system lacks modularity and is difficult to expand
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is divided into independent modular units, each capable of controlling specific environmental feedback devices. These modules can be independently configured, added, or removed without affecting the entire system, enabling easy expansion and adaptation while maintaining stable control through standardized interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system employs universal communication protocols and standardized interfaces that allow a single control unit to manage multiple types of environmental feedback devices (fans, heaters, scent emitters, etc.). This multi-functionality enables the system to adapt to various configurations without requiring dedicated hard-wired controls for each device type.
2Adaptability or versatility
If custom control circuits with dedicated EFD outputs are used, then the system provides reliable device control, but the system becomes difficult to expand to incorporate other EFDs
Solution Approach 1:
The control system uses universal communication protocols (such as Ethernet, USB, or wireless interfaces) that enable a single control circuit to reliably manage multiple types of environmental feedback devices. This approach maintains control stability through standardized communication while allowing easy expansion to incorporate new EFDs without requiring custom hard-wired circuits for each device.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces communication interfaces (Ethernet ports, USB ports, wireless modules) as intermediaries between the control unit and environmental feedback devices. These intermediaries provide reliable digital communication while decoupling the control logic from the physical device connections, enabling both stable control and easy system expansion.
3Ease of operation
If conventional VR systems with EFDs are used, then the system provides immersive sensory feedback, but software configuration is difficult for developers
Solution Approach 1:
The control system automatically discovers and configures connected environmental feedback devices through plug-and-play functionality. When a device is connected via standard communication interfaces, the system automatically detects it, assigns appropriate control parameters, and integrates it into the virtual reality environment without requiring manual software configuration by developers.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements automatic feedback mechanisms where the control unit continuously monitors the status and capabilities of connected EFDs, then automatically adjusts control parameters and software configurations accordingly. This self-configuring capability simplifies the developer experience while maintaining full adaptability to different device combinations.
Data Source
AI summary
A physical device interface for a virtual reality system is provided, comprising: a microprocessor board including a microprocessor, a plurality of control outputs, a first communication port and a second communication port; a plurality of receptacles configured to provide power to a corresponding plurality of physical devices; and a power board coupled to the plurality of control outputs and the plurality of receptacles, the power board including a plurality of channels controlled by the plurality of control outputs to provide power to the plurality of receptacles. The first communication port is configured to communicate with a computer for configuration of the interface and the second communication port is configured to communicate with another interface.