VR Headset RFID External Device Localization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current VR devices face challenges in recognizing external devices in dim-light environments and are limited in recognizing a wide range of external devices due to the reliance on optical signals and the need for specific AI models for each device.

Innovation Solution

The use of RFID signals and image recognition methods allows VR devices to communicate with and localize external devices, enabling the recognition of a variety of devices regardless of lighting conditions. This involves using at least two receivers and a transmitter to identify RFID tags on external devices, download 3D models, and match the device's location and rotation to display a virtual image.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If optical signals are used for device recognition in VR, then the system can identify external devices, but the recognition fails in dim-light environments

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice recognition reliabilityVSAvoidlighting condition dependency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSIllumination intensity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces optical signal-based recognition with RFID (radio-frequency identification) technology. Instead of using cameras and visual sensors that depend on light, the system uses electromagnetic radio waves to communicate between the VR headset and external devices. This substitution eliminates the dependency on illumination conditions, allowing reliable device recognition in both bright and dim environments.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If optical recognition methods are used, then external devices can be identified, but the system requires specific AI models for each device type

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice recognition capabilityVSAvoidsoftware development complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal RFID-based recognition system that can identify multiple types of external devices using a single communication protocol. Instead of requiring separate AI models for different device types, the system uses RFID tags and readers that work with various devices (keyboards, mice, controllers, etc.) through standardized electromagnetic communication, significantly reducing software complexity while maintaining versatility.

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

3Measurement precision

If specialized AI models are developed for each external device, then accurate recognition is achieved, but development costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice identification accuracyVSAvoidsoftware development cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses RFID tags as standardized information carriers that contain device identification data. Instead of developing custom AI models for each device, the system reads identification information from RFID tags attached to or embedded in external devices. This copying approach allows accurate device identification through standardized tag reading, eliminating the need for expensive custom software development while maintaining precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

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

This solution enhances the ability of VR devices to recognize and interact with external devices in various lighting conditions, simplifies the process of adding new devices to the recognition list, and reduces the costs associated with developing specialized software for each device.

Implementation Method 1

using at least two receivers and a transmitter to recognize an external device and determine a location of the external device relative to the headset, based on tags coupled to the external device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRFID (Radio-Frequency Identification): Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS12287912B2External device communication with virtual reality equipment
Publication Date: 2025.04.29 INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINE CORPORATION
  • US12287912B2 patent drawing
  • US12287912B2 patent drawing
  • US12287912B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments are related to providing external device communication and localization for virtual reality based equipment using radio-frequency identification (RFID). At least two receivers and a transmitter are used to recognize an external device and determine a location of the external device relative to the headset, based on tags coupled to the external device. A three-dimensional (3D) model is downloaded of the external device based on information received by the at least two receivers from the tags. A location of the external device is matched to the 3D model based on the tags. A virtual image is displayed of the external device corresponding to the location of the external device.