Waveguide-Based Beacon Configuration for VR Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional virtual reality controller tracking systems rely on multiple infrared light-emitting diodes, which increase complexity, cost, and susceptibility to occlusion, leading to potential tracking errors and reduced user experience.
Innovation Solution
A waveguide-based beacon configuration using a single high-power infrared light-emitting diode and optical elements to distribute light as multiple beacons, allowing for precise tracking and reduced power consumption, while being robust against occlusion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple infrared light-emitting diodes are used for tracking, then tracking accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the light emission function into multiple spatial locations by using a single infrared LED coupled with optical fibers distributed at different positions on the controller. This segmentation allows multiple beacons to be created from one light source, maintaining tracking accuracy while reducing component complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces optical fibers as an intermediary between the single infrared LED and the multiple beacon locations. The optical fibers transmit and distribute light from the single source to multiple emission points, enabling multiple beacons without requiring multiple LEDs
2Measurement precision
If multiple infrared light-emitting diodes are used for tracking, then tracking accuracy is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the function of multiple infrared LEDs into a single LED by using optical fibers to distribute light to multiple locations. This consolidation reduces the bill of materials and simplifies assembly processes, thereby reducing manufacturing cost while maintaining multiple beacon functionality
3Reliability
If multiple infrared light-emitting diodes are used for tracking, then tracking reliability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple light-emitting functions into a single power-consuming component (one infrared LED). Since optical fibers passively transmit light without requiring additional power, the system maintains multiple beacons for reliable tracking while consuming power equivalent to a single LED, thereby extending battery life
4Measurement precision
If multiple infrared light-emitting diodes are used for tracking, then tracking accuracy is improved, but susceptibility to occlusion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the light emission across multiple spatially distributed optical fiber endpoints on the controller surface. This distribution ensures that if one beacon is occluded, others remain visible from different angles, maintaining tracking reliability while using a single infrared LED
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 simplifies the design and manufacturing of virtual reality controllers, reduces costs, enhances tracking accuracy, and increases battery life by using a single light source and optical fibers to emit multiple beacons, ensuring a smoother and more immersive user experience.
Implementation Method 1
a waveguide configured to emit at least a portion of the light out of the waveguide as multiple beacons
Implementation Method 2
an optical element configured to couple a light from the light emitting diode into the waveguide
Data Source
AI summary
Waveguide-based beacon configurations for tracking, for example, virtual reality (VR) controllers, are disclosed. In some implementations, a device may include a light emitting diode, a waveguide, and an optical element. The waveguide may be formed within a frame of the device for a virtual reality headset. The optical element may be configured to couple a light from the light emitting diode into the waveguide. The waveguide may be configured to emit at least a portion of the light out of the waveguide as multiple beacons for tracking an orientation and a displacement of the device.