Computer-implemented methods and systems for designing and conducting virtual reality experiments
Inventors
Tunik, Eugene • Yarossi, Mathew • Berin, Samuel
Assignees
Northeastern University Boston
Publication Number
US-12322299-B2
Publication Date
2025-06-03
Expiration Date
2042-05-16
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Abstract
Computer-implemented methods and systems are disclosed for designing and conducting virtual reality experiments. The method includes the steps of: (a) providing a configuration user interface through a computer system enabling a user to design a virtual reality experiment by integrating one or more peripheral sensors in an immersive virtual environment; (b) running the virtual reality experiment configured in step (a) and collecting experiment data from the one or more peripheral sensors; and (c) outputting the experiment data.
Core Innovation
This invention discloses computer-implemented methods and systems for designing and conducting virtual reality experiments. The solution includes providing a configuration user interface that allows users to create virtual reality experiments by integrating one or more peripheral sensors, such as those on a data glove, in an immersive virtual environment. The system allows users to design experiments involving virtual objects and specify device triggers, such as finger bend angles, handled by the data glove and represented by a virtual hand.
Once an experiment is designed, users can run the experiment in the immersive environment, capturing motion and data from the peripheral sensors during subject interaction with virtual objects. The system supports the specification of multiple device triggers and provides for reactions within the virtual environment in response to these triggers. Experiment data is collected and output for each trial, facilitating further analysis.
The problem addressed is the need for a computer platform that enables flexible integration of various peripheral sensors within configurable virtual environments, allowing human movement researchers to design and conduct experiments without requiring extensive programming expertise. This invention offers a solution by supporting the easy design of experiments, sensor integration, trial parameter configuration, synchronization of diverse devices, and streamlined data collection and output.
Claims Coverage
The patent includes two independent claims, each outlining distinct inventive features for virtual reality experiment design and execution.
Computer-implemented method for designing and conducting virtual reality experiments
The method includes: - Providing a configuration user interface through a computer system enabling a user to design a virtual reality experiment. - Designing one or more virtual objects to be handled by a subject in the virtual reality experiment. - Integrating one or more peripheral sensors within an immersive virtual environment, where the sensors are located on the hand and finger of a data glove worn by the subject and are represented by a virtual hand within the immersive environment. - Specifying a plurality of device triggers for the sensors, including finger bend angles. - Running the configured virtual reality experiment and collecting experiment data from the sensors, including motion capture by the sensors during handling of virtual objects and receiving device triggers. - Providing one or more reactions in the virtual reality environment in response to device triggers. - Outputting the experiment data.
Computer system for designing and conducting virtual reality experiments
The system comprises: - At least one processor, memory, and a display. - A program in memory with instructions, executable by the processor, to: - Provide a configuration user interface enabling a user to design a virtual reality experiment, including design of virtual objects and integration of one or more peripheral sensors on a data glove represented by a virtual hand. - Specify a plurality of device triggers for the sensors, including finger bend angles. - Run the virtual reality experiment and collect data from the peripheral sensors during handling of virtual objects, receiving device triggers. - Provide one or more reactions in the virtual environment in response to device triggers. - Output the experiment data.
The claims cover both a method and a system for designing virtual reality experiments by integrating peripheral sensors, including data gloves, setting device triggers, running experiments with real-time reactions to triggers, and exporting comprehensive experiment data through an accessible user interface.
Stated Advantages
The software platform reduces the cost and workload required to conduct virtual reality experiments by eliminating the need for skilled computer programmers.
It enables easy synchronization of multiple, unrelated, commonly used hardware peripherals for measurement of human motor behavior.
The platform allows uniquely customized experiments to be designed and modified quickly and easily, even by users with limited or no programming experience.
It provides an improved hand model for dexterous interactions within the virtual environment.
It allows for easy use of commonly owned peripherals and synchronizes data from multiple devices into an accessible format.
The system offers flexibility for designing and running experiments rapidly and efficiently.
Documented Applications
Investigations of human visuomotor behavior and perception in virtual environments.
Research and design of ergonomic virtual environments for prototyping, such as control panels and flight controls.
Motor skill training for industrial applications.
Rehabilitation from motor impairment.
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