VR Input Device One-Dimensional Position Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing input devices for creating and controlling avatars in computer-generated environments, such as those described in JP 2001 171815 A, suffer from discomfort due to unexpected rotational reactions when walking transversely to the conveyor belt, especially on small surfaces, limiting user experience and causing unintended movements.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a one-dimensional position control combined with angle control, utilizing depth and color information detection to restrict lateral movement and enhance angular position awareness, along with a soft edging and sensitive pivoting to simulate real-world movements, preventing unintended rotations and maintaining frontal orientation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If two-dimensional position control with conveyor belt rotation is used to transport the person back to the target position, then the person can walk in any direction indefinitely, but the person always rotates in an unexpected way causing discomfort and feeling unwell

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefreedom of movementVSAvoidcomfort
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The control system is segmented into two independent components: one-dimensional position control along the conveyor direction and angle control for frontal orientation. This separation allows each control function to operate independently, preventing the unexpected rotational reactions that occurred with coupled two-dimensional control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of allowing two-dimensional movement freedom and correcting position deviations (as in prior art), the invention inverts the approach by restricting lateral movement and only allowing one-dimensional motion along the conveyor, while using angle control to maintain natural orientation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

2Area of stationary object

If the device has only a small running surface, then the rotational reaction must be prompt and violent to prevent the person from leaving the running surface unintentionally, but this causes discomfort and feeling unwell

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverunning surface areaVSAvoidcomfort
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the control into one-dimensional position control and angle control, the system eliminates the need for violent rotational corrections on small surfaces, as lateral position deviations are prevented rather than corrected.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention replaces the mechanical conveyor belt rotation system with an optical detection system (depth and color information detection) combined with control algorithms, eliminating the need for physical rotational corrections that cause discomfort.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Measurement precision

If depth and color information detection is used to enable creation and control of an avatar, then the user can enter a virtual world with an authentic image of their own body and fully control their limbs, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveavatar control precisionVSAvoiddetection device complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The detection device serves multiple functions: it detects depth information for position control, color information for avatar creation, and joint point positions for limb control. This multi-functionality justifies the device complexity by providing comprehensive control capabilities through a single integrated system.

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

Data Source

PatentEP3164790B1Input device for controlling an avatar in a computer-generated environment, and a method for controlling same
Publication Date: 2018.03.28 PATHBENDER GMBH
  • EP3164790B1 patent drawingFigure 1

AI summary

The invention relates to an input device for creating and controlling an avatar in a computer-generated environment, and to a method for controlling same. The immersion into the virtual reality is increased by virtue of the claimed input device and the method for controlling same allowing the user natural movement, without spatial limits, in a familiar form and with authentic solidity.