Dynamic Function Allocation for VR Operation Terminal

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current VR systems require users to switch between different controllers for various functions, such as camera operation and avatar movement, which is inconvenient and limits the versatility of a single operation terminal.

Innovation Solution

An information processing apparatus that includes a processor and input unit capable of determining the position and function of an operation terminal, allowing it to dynamically change functions based on the terminal's position relative to the user, enabling a single terminal to perform multiple functions without the need for switching.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a separate controller is used for avatar position change in addition to the camera, then the camera can focus on photographing function, but the user needs to switch between camera and controller which reduces ease of operation

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidoperation convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The camera is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the photographing device and the controller for avatar position change. The image pickup unit captures images for both photography and avatar control, eliminating the need for a separate controller and allowing the user to operate both functions with a single device.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the camera function and controller function into a single integrated device. The camera unit that normally performs only photographing is combined with avatar position control capabilities, so one device performs both photographing and avatar manipulation functions simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If multiple separate devices are used for different functions (camera for photography, controller for avatar control), then each device can be optimized for its specific function, but the device complexity increases and user experience deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional performanceVSAvoidnumber of devices
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The camera is designed as a universal device that performs multiple functions including photographing and avatar position control. By making the camera multi-functional, the system reduces the total number of devices needed while maintaining reliable performance for each function through dedicated processing units within the camera.

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

Data Source

PatentUS20250106499A1Information processing apparatus capable of smoothly allocating user-intended function to operation terminal, control method for information processing apparatus, and storage medium
Publication Date: 2025.03.27 CANON KK
  • US20250106499A1 patent drawing
  • US20250106499A1 patent drawing
  • US20250106499A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An information processing apparatus capable of smoothly allocating a function intended by a user to an operation terminal is provided. The information processing apparatus is communicably connected to an operation terminal including an input unit that performs an input operation for an image of a virtual space and performs a specified function in response to the input operation. The information processing apparatus includes at least one processor and a memory coupled to the processor storing instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to function as a position obtaining unit that obtains position information relating to a position of the operation terminal, and a changing unit that is capable of changing the function of the input unit to be performed by the input operation in accordance with the position information obtained by the position obtaining unit.