VR Tool Light Patterns for Switch Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current virtual reality systems face challenges in accurately detecting the operational states of physical props due to the minuscule motion required to actuate switches, which is difficult for optical-based tracking systems, and existing solutions involving wireless communication add complexity and cost, particularly when replacing props.
Innovation Solution
A virtual reality system utilizing a tool with light-emitting devices that are selectively user-actuatable between unique light patterns, allowing the optical detection arrangement to identify the tool's type and status without the need for wireless communication, by leveraging existing tracking systems and reducing configuration requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a wired or wireless link is added between the switch and the simulation computer to detect switch actuation, then the detection reliability of switchable devices is improved, but the device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces wired mechanical connections and wireless communication systems with an optical signaling system. The physical switch actuation is converted into light pattern changes that can be detected by optical tracking cameras, eliminating the need for transmitters, receivers, and communication protocols while maintaining reliable detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces light-emitting devices as an intermediary between the physical switch and the simulation computer. The switch actuation state is transmitted through light patterns that the optical tracking system can detect, serving as a mediator that converts mechanical switch states into detectable optical signals without requiring direct communication hardware
2Ease of operation
If wireless communication transmitters and receivers are integrated into props for tracking, then the operational flexibility is improved, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the optical tracking system universal by enabling any prop with light-emitting devices to be tracked and identified without proprietary communication hardware. The same optical tracking infrastructure used for spatial tracking also detects operational states, eliminating the need for prop-specific communication systems and simplifying manufacturing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive wireless communication transmitters and receivers with inexpensive light-emitting devices that can be easily manufactured into props. These simple optical components are much cheaper and easier to manufacture than communication hardware, allowing for easy prop replacement and modification
3Measurement precision
If optical cameras are used to track physical objects by triangulation, then the tracking precision is improved, but the detection capability of minuscule switch motions remains insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the detection parameter from spatial position to light pattern characteristics. Instead of trying to detect the minuscule spatial motion of a switch, the system detects changes in light emission patterns (intensity, timing, sequence) that correspond to switch actuation, transforming an undetectable mechanical parameter into a detectable optical parameter
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 enables reliable detection of switchable devices in virtual reality systems without additional communication connections, reducing complexity and power consumption, and allows for seamless integration and replacement of props without reconfiguration.
Implementation Method 1
a tool with light-emitting devices that are selectively user-actuatable between unique light patterns, allowing the optical detection arrangement to identify the tool's type and status
Data Source
AI summary
A virtual reality system (100) and device for use therein involve an optical detection arrangement (200) configured to detect a light pattern associated with a unique identity, and a tool (300) having a plurality of light-emitting devices (600) engaged therewith. The light-emitting devices (600) are selectively user-actuatable between a plurality of light patterns detectable by the optical detection arrangement (200). The light patterns provide a plurality of unique identities of the tool (300) as detected by the optical detection arrangement (200).