Water Tank VR System Using Stereoscopic Wall Projection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current virtual reality (VR) technologies do not allow users to experience VR spaces while feeling as if they are floating, limiting the immersive experience.

Innovation Solution

An image processing system that includes a water storage space with projecting devices displaying stereoscopic view images on the walls, allowing users to wear goggles with a liquid crystal shutter for a floating VR experience.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If stereoscopic view images are displayed on wall surfaces in a conventional VR setup, then users can experience immersive virtual reality, but users cannot experience the feeling of floating in the VR space

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveVR experience positionsVSAvoidfloating sensation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a water tank dimension into the conventional VR setup, allowing users to physically float in water while viewing stereoscopic images. This adds a physical floating dimension to the virtual reality experience, enabling users to feel as if they are floating in the VR space by combining water buoyancy with stereoscopic visualization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Duration of action of moving object

If users perform prolonged swimming exercises, then physical fitness is improved, but user motivation decreases over time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveexercise durationVSAvoiduser motivation
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system provides real-time visual feedback by displaying stereoscopic images of underwater environments, marine life, and exercise-related information in the user's field of view. This immersive visual feedback maintains user engagement and motivation during prolonged exercise sessions by making the workout experience more engaging and less monotonous.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Illumination intensity

If conventional VR headsets are used, then immersive visualization is achieved, but users cannot experience natural floating sensation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevisual immersionVSAvoidartificial constraint
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical constraint of head-mounted displays with a more natural system where users wear simple goggles and float in water. The stereoscopic images are projected onto the water tank walls, eliminating the need for heavy VR headsets and allowing users to experience both visual immersion and natural floating sensation simultaneously.

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

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

Enables users to experience VR spaces in a floating state, enhancing immersion and maintaining motivation during prolonged swimming exercises by displaying stereoscopic images of underwater environments.

Implementation Method 1

goggles (30) having a liquid crystal shutter

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLiquid crystal shutter: Liquid Crystals

Implementation Method 2

a water storage space in which a user floats

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBuoyancy: Archimedes' Principle (Buoyancy)

Data Source

PatentEP3188482B1Image processing device and image processing system
Publication Date: 2019.09.04 SONY GROUP CORP
  • EP3188482B1 patent drawingFigure 1A~1B
  • EP3188482B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3188482B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

[Object] To enable a user to experience a VR space in a floating state. [Solution] Provided is an image processing device, including: a wall configured to form a water storage space; and an image generating unit configured to generate a stereoscopic view image to be displayed on the wall toward an inside of the water storage space.