JP2004013314A - Position measuring input support device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To remarkably improve operability for measuring a position without requiring additional cost. <P>SOLUTION: A light source 402 is attached to a finger, and a switch 403 is pushed by the other finger under the light source. When pushing the switch, a three-dimensional position of a light emitting point is recorded at that time. Here, a user pushes a click by bringing the light source to the four corners for making a plane in a space so as to become parallel to an image screen of a personal computer to the ground surface for defining four points 404. Then, the personal computer calculates a rectangular solid surrounded from a rectangle 405 and lines 406 made when lowering a perpendicular to a plane including an image screen (existing vertically to the ground surface) of the personal computer and a plane including the personal computer from the four corners of the rectangle, and treats the area as a command recognizing area. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a position measurement input support device, and more particularly to a position measurement input support device related to a technique for measuring a position of a pointer or the like. For example, in the operation of a mobile device represented by a laptop personal computer, the operability of a pointer such as a mouse surpasses the operability, and a position measurement input support device suitable for use as a pointing device that realizes barrier-free operation. is there.
[0002]
[Prior art]
2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, pointing devices for personal computers and the like include a mouse, a trackball, a joystick, and various sheet-like devices. According to reports on these operability, the mouse is the best in terms of speed and accuracy of positioning, so it is necessary to add a mouse if priority is given to operability even in a mobile environment. Have been.
[0003]
However, in the future, the use of mobile environments will increase in variety and the need for input of characters and pictures will also increase, so it is important to perform pointing with good operability other than mouse. . Furthermore, from the viewpoint of barrier-free, there are many situations where it is difficult to operate a mouse or a pen, and there is an urgent need to invent a new input device that solves this.
[0004]
In recent years, mice have been wireless using infrared light, but the mouse is limited within a certain distance from a personal computer and the direction in which infrared light can be read is limited. In addition, a wireless system called Bluetooth that connects a mouse to a personal computer has begun to appear on the market, but in any case, the movement of the mouse is still limited to a specific plane.
[0005]
As a mouse substitute, for example, a position on a plane is measured by using a dedicated tablet such as a position input tablet manufactured by WACOM, or a two-dimensional semiconductor as described in Japanese Utility Model Application Laid-Open No. 5-25525. There is a technique for measuring a position on a plane using a sensor (PSD) and a lens. The pen is used as an alternative to a mouse in this tablet, but its movement is limited to a specific plane.
[0006]
There is a 3D mouse used in the air, in which an autogyro is held so that the three-dimensional orientation of the mouse from a certain point in time can be tracked (Gyropoint of Gyropoint Technology, USA). This allows the position of the pointer to be changed by changing the direction of the hand toward the screen targeting the mouse. However, this product does not respond at all to the translation of the mouse.
[0007]
The Stereo Labeling Camera by Cyverse Inc. uses an infrared light emitter (one is a reflection type using a reflective material on an object, and the other is a light emission type using a light emitter on an object). .), There is a sensor in which CMOS is arranged on a straight line and the distance to the light emitter is measured using the principle of three-dimensional surveying. The accuracy of this device has an error of about 1 mm at a distance of 1 m and an error of 9 mm at a distance of 3 m. However, it is enough to capture the movement (motion capture) by attaching a plurality of luminous bodies to the human body with such accuracy. Unfortunately, it costs hundreds of thousands of yen, and its spread is limited.
[0008]
The live board etc. detects the position of the icon on the screen by the position of the electromagnetic induction pen, and the similar system of Toshiba (eBeam (product)) and KOKUYO (mimio (product)) uses ultrasonic wave etc. The upper two-dimensional position is determined and characters are input.
[0009]
On the other hand, as described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Hei 10-9812, light from an input device is measured with an apparatus in which photoelectric conversion elements (PDs) are combined in an L-shape, so that the light source can be made compact and inexpensive. Techniques exist for measuring position. In this device, the light source corresponding to the mouse is attached to the hand and can be freely moved in a three-dimensional space.
[0010]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
The WACOM position input tablet requires a tablet having a larger area below the display screen than the display screen, which is disadvantageous in miniaturization, and it is impossible to replace only the display screen. Furthermore, it has the inconvenience of always carrying the tablet itself.
[0011]
Further, since the pen needs to be moved on the surface of the tablet, it may be difficult for a person with a disability to use the upper limb. Further, there is a problem that the cost reduction is limited because the electromagnetic induction method is used.
[0012]
Next, Japanese Utility Model Laid-Open Publication No. 5-25525 has an advantage that pointing can be performed in an arbitrary region of the space. However, it has been determined that the use of an expensive PSD is insufficient as a pointing device for a mobile device whose cost has been remarkably reduced, and has not been put to practical use.
[0013]
On the other hand, in Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. Hei 10-9812, it is necessary to select a method of using either a pointer or a mouse. In other words, when it is desired to switch between a method of using the pointer as a pointer that always moves the cursor and a method of moving the cursor as a mouse only when necessary, it is necessary to provide a separate switch or the like, and it is troublesome.
[0014]
As a method that does not use a switch, it is necessary to perform a specific operation in the air, and even a beginner cannot operate without recognizing the operation. Furthermore, since the scroll function was not considered, a separate scroll means had to be provided.
[0015]
In addition, there was no clue to know that the switch was made, so it was only after actually performing the operation that the correct or incorrect state could be confirmed. In addition, the movement of the current mouse is restricted on a two-dimensional plane, and it is undeniable that an unnatural operation was forced to operate a three-dimensional virtual object on the display.
[0016]
These situations interrupted the thinking that had been performed continuously until then, and added extra stress to the user.
[0017]
The present invention has been proposed to solve the above-described problem, and provides a position measurement input support device that can dramatically improve operability for position measurement without increasing costs. The purpose is to.
[0018]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
The present invention has solved the above-mentioned problem by utilizing the technology described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-9812.
[0019]
According to the first aspect of the present invention, a recognition unit for recognizing a position of a light source and at least one of a three-dimensional continuous closed input space and an open input space are defined based on the position of the light source recognized by the recognition unit. Definition means.
[0020]
Therefore, according to the first aspect of the present invention, it is possible to define at least one of a three-dimensional continuous closed input space and an open input space by using the position of the light source.
[0021]
According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect, the positions of the plurality of light sources are simultaneously recognized.
[0022]
Therefore, according to the second aspect of the present invention, at least one of a three-dimensional continuous closed input space and an open input space can be defined by simultaneously recognizing the positions of a plurality of light sources by the recognition means.
[0023]
The invention according to claim 3 has a stimulating means for appealing to at least one of the five senses according to the case where the light source is inside the input space and the case where the light source is outside the input space.
[0024]
Therefore, according to the third aspect of the present invention, by distinguishing between the case where the light source is in the input space in the three-dimensional space and the case where it is outside and appealing to at least one of the five senses, the light source is located in the input space. It is possible to make the user surely recognize the case and the case outside.
[0025]
The invention according to claim 4 has input space moving means for moving the input space in accordance with the movement of the position of the light source when the position of the light source is in the input space and a predetermined operation is performed. ing.
[0026]
Therefore, according to the fourth aspect of the invention, the input space is not limited as in the case of a desktop mouse, and the display device and the input are separated. The input space can be arbitrarily defined.
[0027]
The invention according to claim 5 has stimulating means for appealing to at least one of the five senses according to the distance from the boundary of the input space to the light source when the light source is in the input space.
[0028]
Therefore, according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the user is notified in advance whether the light source is close to the boundary of the input area, so that careless movement of the user can be reduced and usability can be improved.
[0029]
The invention according to claim 6 has command forming means for forming a command based on a time series pattern generated when the light source passes through different input closed spaces.
[0030]
Therefore, according to the invention described in claim 6, by forming a command to the control device based on a time series pattern generated by the light source passing through the input closed space, for example, identification information and a password can be set. it can.
[0031]
According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the invention of the sixth aspect, a recording unit that records a time-series coordinate position of the light source, and the coordinate position recorded by the recording unit changes according to a change in the input closed space. Command execution means for executing the command formed by the command formation means.
[0032]
Therefore, according to the invention described in claim 7, the user can freely design the command by executing the command according to the change of the time-series coordinate position of the light source.
[0033]
The invention according to claim 8 is the invention according to claim 6, wherein a recognizing means for recognizing the three-dimensional trajectory of the light source, a converting means for converting the three-dimensional trajectory recognized by the recognizing means into a corresponding command, Is further provided.
[0034]
Therefore, according to the eighth aspect of the present invention, the three-dimensional trajectory generated by the movement of the light source is recognized, and the recognized three-dimensional trajectory is converted into a corresponding command, thereby obtaining the three-dimensional trajectory of the light source. If the corresponding command is defined in advance, the user can easily design the command.
[0035]
The invention according to claim 9 has a plurality of light sources and a command generation means for generating a predetermined command when each of the plurality of predetermined light sources is in a predetermined three-dimensional area.
[0036]
Therefore, according to the ninth aspect of the present invention, when a plurality of predetermined light sources are each in a predetermined three-dimensional area, a predetermined command is generated. Can be prevented from being used without permission.
[0037]
According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, a plurality of light sources, an input action performed in a predetermined three-dimensional region by a predetermined light source, and at least one of the predetermined three-dimensional region and another three-dimensional region are performed by another light source. A recognition unit that recognizes an input action to be performed; and a command generation unit that generates a predetermined command when recognized by the recognition unit.
[0038]
Therefore, according to the tenth aspect of the present invention, an input action performed in a predetermined three-dimensional area by a predetermined light source and at least one of the predetermined three-dimensional area and another three-dimensional area are performed by another light source. By forming a predetermined command when recognizing the input action, for example, when there is no approval of the predetermined user, it is possible to prevent another user from using the device without permission. Also, only when a plurality of predetermined users approve, a predetermined process can be activated or the predetermined process can be terminated.
[0039]
According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a set calculating means for performing a set calculation of a first specific continuous input space and a second continuous continuous input space.
[0040]
Therefore, according to the eleventh aspect, it is possible to perform a set operation of different continuous input areas.
[0041]
According to the twelfth aspect of the invention, when another input space is newly defined when the first continuous input space is defined, an input space for merging the two is newly generated when both have a common part. When the first input space generating means and the first continuous input space are defined, another input space is newly defined. If both of them have a common part, the common part is replaced with a new input space. When a second input space generating means for generating the first continuous input space and a first continuous input space are defined, another input space is newly defined. And a third input space generating means for newly generating an input space excluding a common part from, and when another input space is newly defined when a second continuous input space is defined, a common part is formed between the two. When there is a second continuous input space Fourth input space generating means for newly generating an input space excluding a common portion, and fifth input space generating means for newly generating an input space excluding the continuous space from the entire space when a new continuous input space is defined. And a sixth input space generating means for generating, as a new input space, a discontinuous space obtained by combining the first continuous input space and the second continuous input space having no common part with the first continuous input space. are doing. When the first continuous space and the second continuous space have no common part but are in contact with each other, the combination of the two may be one continuous space.
[0042]
Therefore, according to the twelfth aspect, even when the input space is increased, the first input space and the second input space can be easily handled as one input space without starting over. it can.
[0043]
According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, a plurality of display devices corresponding to the plurality of three-dimensional input spaces and a cursor of the display device corresponding to the predetermined input space when the light source is located in the predetermined input space. Cursor moving means for moving.
[0044]
Therefore, according to the thirteenth aspect, one pointer can be used for a plurality of display devices.
[0045]
The invention according to claim 14 is the invention according to claim 13, further comprising an input mode setting means for setting a different input mode in each of the plurality of input areas.
[0046]
Therefore, according to the fourteenth aspect, a plurality of input areas can have different input forms, and the user can move the light source between different input areas without being conscious of the input forms.
[0047]
According to a fifteenth aspect, in the invention according to the thirteenth aspect, when a straight line connecting two light sources and one or more continuous input spaces have an intersection, the selection means selects the continuous input space having the intersection. Is further provided.
[0048]
Therefore, according to the fifteenth aspect, by selecting a continuous input space when there is an intersection with a straight line connecting two light sources and one or more continuous input spaces, for example, a plurality of pointers can be obtained by one pointer. A computer terminal or a display can be selected and operated.
[0049]
The invention according to claim 16 includes one or more light sources having different wavelengths, and light amount changing means for changing the light amount of the light sources in a predetermined pattern.
[0050]
Therefore, according to the sixteenth aspect, by changing the light source in a predetermined pattern, it is possible to form identification information that can be read by light.
[0051]
The invention according to claim 17, wherein one or more light sources that generate light of different wavelengths in a predetermined pattern, and a plurality of light sources that reflect only light of different wavelengths among the light generated by the plurality of light sources are provided. When the light reflected by the plurality of reflecting means has the predetermined pattern, it is detected whether or not the light reflected by the plurality of reflecting means has light of a predetermined wavelength. Detecting means.
[0052]
Therefore, according to the seventeenth aspect, when the light reflected by the plurality of reflecting means has a predetermined pattern, the light reflected by the plurality of reflecting means includes light of a predetermined wavelength. By detecting this, identification information that can be read by light can be formed.
[0053]
The invention according to claim 18 is a light source, measuring means for measuring the three-dimensional position of the light source, and luminance changing means for changing the luminance of the cursor according to the three-dimensional position of the light source measured by the measuring means. , Is characterized by having.
[0054]
Therefore, according to the eighteenth aspect, by changing the brightness of the cursor according to the three-dimensional position of the light source, the distance to the light source can be appealed to the user's vision.
[0055]
According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a light source, measuring means for measuring a three-dimensional position of the light source, and a change in a position of a cursor on a screen according to a change in the three-dimensional position of the light source measured by the measuring means. Changing means for changing the time delay.
[0056]
Therefore, according to the nineteenth aspect, the distance to the light source can be appealed to the user by changing the time delay of the position change of the cursor on the screen according to the change in the three-dimensional position of the light source. .
[0057]
According to a twentieth aspect of the present invention, a light source, a measuring means for measuring a three-dimensional position of the light source, and a hearing stimulating means for stimulating hearing according to the three-dimensional position of the light source measured by the measuring means are provided. Have.
[0058]
Therefore, according to the twentieth aspect, the distance to the light source can be appealed to the user's hearing.
[0059]
According to a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, in the eighteenth aspect of the present invention, the number of replicas of the cursor is changed according to the three-dimensional position of the light source measured by the measuring means, so that the cursor is displayed. And a first display control unit for performing control for displaying the image in the vicinity of the vehicle.
[0060]
Therefore, according to the twenty-first aspect, the number of cursor duplicates is changed according to the three-dimensional position of the light source, and the duplicates are displayed near the position where the cursor is displayed, so that the distance to the light source can be changed by the user. You can appeal to the sight of.
[0061]
According to a twenty-second aspect of the present invention, in the invention of the twenty-first aspect, a control is provided for displaying a copy of the cursor near the cursor display position and rotating and displaying the copy in accordance with the position of the light source. It further has display control means.
[0062]
Therefore, according to the invention described in claim 22, the distance to the light source can be appealed to the user's vision by rotating and displaying the duplicate of the cursor near the position where the cursor is displayed, according to the position of the light source.
[0063]
The invention according to claim 23 is the invention according to claim 20, further comprising olfactory stimulating means for stimulating olfaction according to the three-dimensional position of the light source measured by the measuring means.
[0064]
Therefore, according to the twenty-third aspect, the distance to the light source can be appealed to the user's sense of smell.
[0065]
The invention according to claim 24 is the invention according to claim 4, wherein a rotation axis defining means for defining a rotation axis for the virtual object in the virtual space, and the virtual axis defined with respect to the rotation axis defined by the rotation axis defining means. Rotating means for rotating the object.
[0066]
Therefore, according to the invention described in claim 24, it is possible to move and rotate the virtual object in the virtual space with a more realistic feeling.
[0067]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, first to thirteenth embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
[0068]
[First Embodiment]
This will be described with reference to FIG.
[0069]
First, it is assumed that a mode for defining a continuous area is entered first. This is, for example, incorporated in a personal computer with software. In particular, in this mode, the light source emits light, and the sensor that recognizes the light emission is operating.
[0070]
The light source 402 is attached to a finger, and the switch 403 is pressed by another finger under the light source 402. When the switch is pressed, the three-dimensional position of the light emitting point at that time is recorded. Of course, a command to record by pressing a certain key from the keyboard may be issued. However, in the method using a keyboard, if the position of the light source is far enough from the PC screen, the operation of hitting the keyboard becomes troublesome.
[0071]
The number of points to be recognized depends on the definition of a continuous area. Here, the user defines four points 404. That is, the user holds the light sources at the four corners so as to form a plane in space so as to be parallel to the screen of the personal computer with respect to the ground surface, and presses the click.
[0072]
Then, when the PC draws perpendiculars to the plane containing the rectangle 405 defined from the four points 404 and the screen of the PC (it is assumed to be perpendicular to the ground) and the plane containing the PC from the four corners of the rectangle, A rectangular parallelepiped surrounded by a possible perpendicular 406 is calculated, and the area is treated as a command recognition area.
[0073]
In this area definition mode, a rectangular parallelepiped is automatically defined when four points are recognized. If the plane on which the personal computer is placed is the default, only the top two points are sufficient. In order to determine the last point, the last point may be recognized by double-clicking the switch or hitting a specific keyboard of the personal computer. After the final confirmation, the parameters and other attributes are registered in a list inside the personal computer with the rectangular solid as an input area. Newly defined input fields have their parameters added to this list sequentially.
[0074]
After the rectangular parallelepiped is formed, a mode is entered for determining whether the light source is outside or inside the rectangular parallelepiped. At the same time, a circular icon 407 is set on the screen. This icon shall have a certain brightness or hue if the light source is within this cuboid. For example, red is a good example. If the light source is outside, a color that can be distinguished from red, such as yellow or yellow-green, and that can be judged naturally is selected.
[0075]
This is possible because the equations describing the six faces that make up the cuboid are recorded during this process. The inside and outside of the rectangular shape of the light source is determined by the positional relationship between the light source position and the six surfaces, and a standard method used in three-dimensional computer graphics or the like may be used.
[0076]
Since the color of the circular icon changes on the screen inside and outside the rectangular parallelepiped of the light source, the position can be visually recognized by the user. By repeatedly putting the light source in and out of the rectangular parallelepiped, the user can express the state inside and outside the rectangular parallelepiped of the light source in time series. In this case, if 0 corresponds to outside and 1 corresponds to inside, a simple 01 pattern is created (of course, based on a rule that is performed within a certain time), and there is a certain 01 pattern for a specific 01 pattern If a specific command (command for a personal computer) is determined, a simple computer input device is created. Needless to say, it can be used as a password.
[0077]
Therefore, a continuous area can be defined in a three-dimensional space remote from the personal computer screen, and it is possible to distinguish between when the light source is within the continuous area and when it is not.
[0078]
In the present embodiment, the number of light sources 402 is described as one, but a plurality of light sources may be provided in advance. Also, an example has been described in which the luminance, hue, and the like of the icon 407 are changed to appeal to the user's visual sense, but may be appealed to the user's other five senses.
[0079]
[Second embodiment]
In the position measurement input support device, the three-dimensional position of the light source is recognized. As an example of such an input support device for three-dimensional position measurement, a technique described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-9812 can be used.
[0080]
FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the principle. In this device, the amount of light from a divergent light source is such that photodiodes 202 and 203 are in contact with each other at a 90-degree angle, and a line connecting the angles formed by the two diodes from the light source is between the angles formed by the two diodes. That is, when considering the line segment connecting the light source 206 and the contact 201 of the photodiode, the ratio of the amount of light received by each photodiode is the ratio of the angle formed by the line segment and each photodiode (205/204). ) Is used because the direction of the light source can be calculated because it is proportional to The photodiode can be replaced by a CCD or CMOS sensor comprising a plurality of sensors.
[0081]
FIG. 3 shows that such a sensor 101 is mounted on the notebook computer 100. A light source 102 is shown on the user's finger, with a so-called left click 103 associated therewith. The power source of the light source shall be obtained through batteries and electric wires.
[0082]
The position of the light source is measured with a specific position of the display device, for example, an upper left corner or the center of the screen as an origin. The personal computer has a means for controlling the cursor, and data for defining the shape of the cursor appearing on the screen.
[0083]
Therefore, only one cursor appears in an area frequently used by the user (for example, an area at a distance of about 10 cm to 25 cm from the screen) as in a normal personal computer, but when the light source is at the distance of 0 to 10 cm, FIG. As shown in (3), two cursors are displayed near the original cursor (303). On the other hand, when the light source is at least 25 cm from the screen, four cursors are displayed near the original cursor (305). With such a display method, the user is prompted to return the light source to an appropriate position from the screen, and usability is improved. The usability is improved by devising that the number of the duplicated cursors is not simply proportional to the distance (of course, it may be so), but increases as the distance from the appropriate distance increases.
[0084]
The number of cursor duplicates may determine a variable that varies with distance from the screen. It is also possible to list the variables and take out the variables according to the change in the position of the cursor, and send them to a device that displays the cursor. It is also possible to change the distance of the duplicate cursor from the original cursor according to the distance of the light source from the screen.
[0085]
Further, only one copy may be made to rotate around the original cursor. In this case, it is possible to provide the user with a sense of distance by changing the number of rotations or the rotation speed according to the distance of the light source from the screen.
[0086]
Therefore, in this case, the number of cursors changes and the screen appears (303, 305) as the light source approaches or moves away from the screen. In this way, the user can confirm the position of the light source he has from the screen by changing the number of cursors, and the usability is improved. Note that, here, the normal distance is described as 10 cm to 25 cm from the screen, but this may of course be another distance, and may be different for each user.
[0087]
Furthermore, in the above, the size of the cursor on the screen is changed according to the distance of the light source from the screen, but in addition to the size, the so-called cursor shape attribute such as its shape and color is changed according to the distance. Is also possible.
[0088]
In addition, it is preferable for a person who is visually impaired to change according to the distance of the light source such as a sound from the screen instead of the cursor itself. For example, the melody can be changed according to the distance, or the frequency can be changed. Or you may make it change the period of the change of the brightness | luminance of a cursor according to distance.
[0089]
When the light source is far away from the screen, the cursor may not be easily recognized. In this case, it is also preferable to change the background color of the entire screen according to the distance.
[0090]
Further, a shape or an icon other than the cursor may appear according to the distance, or the distance itself may be displayed on the screen. The distance can also be represented by a bar-shaped indicator, and the color of the indicator can be changed continuously according to the distance. Even if the flash light is made to blink while changing the cycle according to the distance, it is also suitable for the visually impaired. Similarly, a cursor or a shape appearing on the screen can be rotated at a different cycle in accordance with the distance, or can be amplitude-moved. The amplitude may be changed and the position may be changed by amplitude while the shape is constant. However, the size of the shape may be changed periodically.
[0091]
In addition, for those who are visually impaired, have the vibrator be placed in the pocket and when the light source is in the area, the vibrator (depending on the distance) from the personal computer side through wireless such as Bluetooth. You may make it vibrate.
[0092]
As a technique for obtaining a sense of distance, the cursor moves faster when the light source is closer to the display and slower when it is farther from the display, depending on the distance of the light source from the display. The user can know the sense of distance. It is imperative that these techniques be incorporated depending on their application and circumstances.
[0093]
It is also possible for a blind person to know his position by generating a certain scent when entering the input area with a light source to know where he is standing and where the light source is located It is. Assuming that there is a light source recognition device for each room, it is preferable to provide different odors and melodies for each room because it is easy for a person who is blind to know which room they are in. Changing the intensity of the scent according to the distance from the recognition device or another reference point also gives the user a certain sense of distance, which is effective.
[0094]
Therefore, according to the distance of the light source from the display, feedback can be given to the user in a manner that appeals to the five senses.
[0095]
[Third Embodiment]
In the present embodiment, a description will be given of dragging and dropping a definition space.
[0096]
As shown in FIG. 5, it is assumed that a closed space has already been defined in this system. It is also assumed that the mode is the drag and drop mode. The target closed space is a PC screen corresponding to a rectangle 1504 parallel to the PC screen including the point 1505, and four points including a perpendicular drawn from four corners of the rectangle 1504 and a point 1506 where the perpendicular intersects on a plane including the PC screen. Is defined from
[0097]
The light source 1502 is also provided with a so-called left click button 1503 of a personal computer. Move your hand to put the light source in a closed space. Then, it is displayed that the light source on the display is in the closed space (icon 1507). Here, it is assumed that the color of this specific icon is expressed by being brightened.
[0098]
Holding down the left click 1503 for a certain period of time indicates the start of dragging a closed space just as in the case of a personal computer. Here, the user moves the light source to an arbitrary position while holding down the left click button. The sensor always detects the position of the light source. Therefore, the relative position of the position of the light source in the closed space is also determined. When the left click button 1502 is released after the movement, the closed space is moved in parallel by the difference between the current light source position 1512 and the light source position 1502 when dragging starts. This is called a drop. When the drop is performed, the closed space is translated so that the relationship of the light source to the closed space when the dragging of the position of the light source starts is maintained.
[0099]
Therefore, when this operation is completed, the coordinates of the corners 1506 and 1505 representing the closed space are updated to be 1511 and 1509 as if they were translated in parallel by the difference between the light sources. Plane 1504 has been translated to plane 1510. Of course, even during the dragging, the position of the light source may be calculated at regular intervals, and the coordinates representing the target closed space may be sequentially updated with the difference from the position of the light source at which the dragging has started. It is even better if the current rectangle position can be reduced to represent the state of dragging.) During this drag, the icon 1507 remains highlighted because the light source is in the input rectangle.
[0100]
Accordingly, the display and the input space can be moved to a predetermined space position and an arbitrary position, and the display and the input space can be separated. Therefore, for example, when using a personal computer lying on a bed, such an input space can be defined at hand, so that the personal computer does not have to be placed on the user's bed, and the convenience of inputting the personal computer increases. .
[0101]
[Fourth Embodiment]
This will be described with reference to FIG.
[0102]
It is assumed that a rectangular parallelepiped region R0 is defined by defining a rectangle in front of the personal computer screen. Here, RN is the total space S excluding R0. This rectangular solid is defined by six plane equations, one of which is a plane R including a screen. It is assumed that the rectangular parallelepiped region R0 is surrounded by the plane A0 and the R on the screen side of the personal computer.
[0103]
A perpendicular line perpendicular to the center of the screen corresponds to the x coordinate axis. Each plane is
a · x + by · y + c · z = q
It is represented by
[0104]
Here, a, b, c, and q are constants specific to a specific plane. Of these planes, choose a plane that is parallel to the screen of the personal computer. This is called A0. Assume that the user is now on the opposite side of the screen of the personal computer before this plane. Then, a plane 3cm away from this plane on the user side is
a ・ (x + 3) + by ・ cｃz = q
This is called A1.
[0105]
Conversely, the plane 3 cm on the screen side of the personal computer is
a * (x-3) + by * c * z = q
It is represented by This is called A2.
[0106]
A rectangular parallelepiped surrounded by A2 and A0 is called R2, and a region surrounded by A0 and A1 is called R1. The rectangular parallelepiped region excluding R0 from R2 will be referred to as R3. After finishing, as described in the second embodiment, the regions R3, R2, R1, and RN are arranged in the direction in which the X coordinate increases from the personal computer screen. Note that RN is exactly S-RO, but here, it refers to a portion of RN surrounded by four planes considered to have a plane perpendicular to the screen A0 of the rectangular parallelepiped R0 extended to the user side in a common sense.
[0107]
In the second embodiment, the colors corresponding to R0 and RN are determined, and when the light source is in the area, the color corresponding to the area appears on the icon on the screen. R3 has the same hue as R0, RN has the hue representing the outside of the rectangular parallelepiped R0 in the previous embodiment, and R2 and R1 have two of the hues between R0 and RN selected in order according to the distance. Choose so that the hue changes naturally. As another method, when the light source is from R2 to R1, the hue may be continuously changed according to the distance from the screen.
[0108]
Therefore, the user is notified in advance whether the light source is close to the boundary of the input area, and the usability is improved. In particular, careless movement can be reduced.
[0109]
[Fifth Embodiment]
This will be described with reference to FIG.
[0110]
A time-series three-dimensional position pattern of the area name generated when the light source passes through different areas freely set by the user is used as a command to the personal computer input. Such a method is described in JP-A-2001-306235 (Japanese Patent Application No. 2000-117615). However, there are a plurality of closed regions that determine such a pattern, which cannot be changed.
[0111]
Further, even in the same area, since the three-dimensional position is recognized by the light source in this apparatus, a time-series pattern can be formed as follows.
[0112]
That is, a specific rectangular parallelepiped input region R0 is considered. It is assumed that the left and right surfaces of this rectangular parallelepiped region are parallel to the screen. It is assumed that a finger having a light source exists in this area. The finger is moved toward and away from the screen several times within a certain time.
[0113]
For example, it is assumed here that the finger is moved back and forth three times. Finally, it is assumed that the light source has moved from a specific minimum length, which is a single back and forth movement, at the original position (approximately). By doing so, the time series of the position of the light source is recognized. Since the time series of the position of the light source is always stored in the personal computer, the time series pattern of the position of the light source between the light source is constantly observed at a specific interval at a specific time. Then, it is assumed that it is observed that three patterns of distance in the distance start and end at a short distance. That is, it is ABABABA in FIG. This pattern is near-far-far-far-far-far (close-far is measured by distance from the screen).
[0114]
By repeating the operation of starting from the initial position of the light source, then approaching the screen, and then returning to the original position, a pattern opposite to the previous pattern, that is, a perspective pattern can be created. When this pattern is recognized, it can be used, for example, as a command to perform an operation of bringing an object of VRML (Virtual Reality Modeling Language) far from the user in the virtual space.
[0115]
In the description so far, it is described that the light source is for the screen. However, the pattern is not limited to the screen but may be a pattern for the relative position of the light source with respect to a plane or a curved surface that determines the continuous input space (normally closed space). For example, according to this definition, the left, right, left, right, left, right, left, up, down, up, down, up, down, up, etc. are easily defined from the positional relationship of the light source with respect to two opposing planes that determine the rectangular closed space. Are further defined.
[0116]
Therefore, the user can freely design the command.
[0117]
[Sixth Embodiment]
This will be described with reference to FIG.
[0118]
It is assumed that a continuous rectangular parallelepiped region R0 defined by a specific region, for example, 602 and a plane 601 including a personal computer screen is defined in front of the screen. The light source of the user A is assumed to be a light source A. The light source of user B is light source B. Here, the user B is a super user in a so-called sense, and unless the light source A and the light source B are recognized at the same time in R0 at first, the user A makes the personal computer using this area unavailable.
[0119]
The light source A and the light source B are different from each other, and it is more preferable that the light source A emits light (including infrared light) having a wavelength unique to the solid. The light of the light source may be filtered to make the specific light source more visible. In order to distinguish a plurality of light sources, a method of changing a frequency, a method of changing a phase, a method of changing a pulse pattern, and the like can be considered.
[0120]
In the above, the same area is considered, but generally, when a specific light source is in a specific area and another specific light source is in another specific area, it is recognized as a specific command. It is preferable to do so. As a simple example, a case where a specific command is defined based on the number of light sources in a specific area can be considered.
[0121]
Until now, we only considered that multiple light sources were in a specific area, but we have further developed this so that only when each light source executes a specific input command, that is, multiple commands execute substantially simultaneously. Only when the command is executed, another command may be executed.
[0122]
For example, only when a majority of a plurality of users instructs to terminate the basic software or application software of the personal computer using each light source (the manner of such an instruction will be described in another embodiment). And so on. Specifically, the personal computer is terminated only when both the teacher's light source and the student's light source send a command to terminate the personal computer in the personal computer classroom.
[0123]
Therefore, unless a specific user (super user) is approved, the personal computer cannot be used, and illegal use of the personal computer can be prevented. A particular process can only be run or terminated under multiple users.
[0124]
[Seventh Embodiment]
This will be described with reference to FIG.
[0125]
A light source is alternately put into and taken out of two contradictory regions A and B generated by dividing the three-dimensional space in front of the personal computer screen by an appropriate plane 702, so that a time series consisting of the name of the region where the light source is located A pattern can be made. The pattern can be defined as a command, ID, or password. Of course, the time during which the light source stays in each area may be included in the time-series pattern. In this case, it is necessary to sufficiently set the minimum stay time and the like so that the stay time can be distinguished. Light sources 703 and 704 represent light sources that move in two open spaces (reverse areas A and B, but no common area).
[0126]
It is also preferable to give feedback to these patterns in such a way that the user can recognize them with the five senses.
[0127]
Therefore, an ID and a password can be set.
[0128]
[Eighth Embodiment]
This will be described with reference to FIG.
[0129]
It is assumed that a specific rectangular parallelepiped input area has already been defined in front of the screen (1311). (Area Surrounded by Dotted Lines and Plane 1310) In FIG. 9A, the light source is brought into this area, and for example, the light source is turned on and off three times within a specific time. In addition, another command is defined. For example, if the light source is shaken up and down twice in this mode, it means that another area is added to the current area.
[0130]
After this command, it means that the light source is in a mode to define a new continuous area. Therefore, it is assumed that the rectangular area 1313 represented by the solid line is designated thereafter, for example, as in the second embodiment. In this case, a plane where the light source is close to the display in the first area 1311 is first defined. In this case, it may be confirmed that the light source is in the area 1311. Then, as soon as the area designation is completed, that is, as soon as a plane farther from the display 1313 is defined, a set sum 1314 of the two areas is defined. In particular, if a new continuous closed space is defined so as to cover the continuous closed space defined earlier, when the latter has a relation including the former, the previous definition disappears and a new continuous space is defined.
[0131]
As shown in FIG. 9B, when two areas are not continuous, an error message is displayed on the screen. It should be noted that two discontinuous areas can be regarded as the same area.
[0132]
The operation in which the second command lowers and raises the command twice is a command for obtaining a set difference. In FIG. 9C, after the continuous area 1332 is newly input, the common part 1334 is removed from the continuous area 1331 from the beginning, and the removed set difference area is defined again as R (1333).
[0133]
The reason why the set calculation can be performed in this way is that it is relatively difficult with this three-dimensional input device to pick up the planes and sides that determine the rectangular parallelepiped and newly define them. This is because it is easier to do the calculation.
[0134]
FIG. 9B is applied to both the set sum and the set difference, and shows that an error occurs if the first input area and the second input area do not have a common area.
[0135]
It is also conceivable to take a common part 1334 as a similar command. In the mode of the set operation command, for example, an arc may be drawn twice on a plane in place of the above-mentioned operation of up, down, or down. The upper and lower, upper and lower, and circular arcs as commands for turning on and off the light source and the subsequent set calculation described above are not limited thereto, and it is preferable to define commands that the user can understand.
[0136]
The definition of 1334 as a shared subspace of 1333 and 1332 will be described with reference to FIG. This represents a space that can be used for both types of light sources. It is also effective when defining a personal space as a large shared space when used in a group. In this command mode, when 1333 and 1332 are defined, a common continuous space 1334 is generated.
[0137]
The other set operations can be defined in the same manner as described above, and will not be described. In order to treat a plurality of discontinuous spaces as a space sharing one attribute, a mode for defining the space is provided anew. In that case, in FIG. 9B, the first input space and the second input space are treated as one input space.
[0138]
Therefore, the set operation of the input area can be performed. In particular, when increasing the area, it is not necessary to start over.
[0139]
[Ninth embodiment]
This will be described with reference to FIG.
[0140]
At present, what is displayed on one display can be simultaneously displayed on another display. This simply means sending a signal to one display to another display. In this case, it is natural that the pointer on the first screen also appears on the other screens.
[0141]
Similarly, the entry of the pointer in each three-dimensional solid space is determined as in the second embodiment. In this system, each time the light source enters a different virtual area, the color of the icon indicating that the light source has entered is different. That is, assuming that each display has an icon corresponding to each area, a different icon is defined for each different virtual area, and when the light source enters a certain area, the color of the corresponding icon changes. It is also preferable that these icons are associated so that the corresponding area can be recognized.
[0142]
In FIG. 8, a left area A and a right area B are defined. Set the color of the icon on the display to change depending on which light source enters. Alternatively, two icons may be prepared so that when the light source is located in one of the areas, the corresponding icon is highlighted.
[0143]
For example, assume that a plurality of light source recognition areas are defined on one display as shown in FIG. It is also possible to give each icon a word such as for the cursor, near the screen, etc., and each is set to a different mode. An area 1442 sets a keyboard mode, an area 1443 sets a scroll mode, and an air area 1441 pointer mode. In the scroll mode or the keyboard mode, it is assumed that the position of the light source is within a few mm from the plane on which the personal computer is placed. In keyboard mode, the soft keyboard appears on the display and the key corresponding to the position of the light source is highlighted.
[0144]
It is also necessary that the plurality of icons be drawn on the display (1444) so as to reflect the actual positional relationship of the plurality of virtual areas.
[0145]
Thus, one pointer can be used for multiple displays. Multiple regions can exist in different modes, and the user moves the light source between the regions without being aware of it. Therefore, unlike the conventional mouse, it is not necessary to switch the head in each mode, and the interruption of thinking is reduced.
[0146]
[Tenth embodiment]
In the present embodiment, recognition of three-dimensional input and pseudo-normalization will be described.
[0147]
The trajectory of the light source in three dimensions can be used as an arbitrary input command. In this system, three-dimensional coordinates are recorded at a certain interval (for example, 0.01 second) in a time series. The system always checks the record as a window from a certain point in time to a certain point in time.
[0148]
For example, as shown in FIG. 11, it is assumed that the light source makes a vertical movement 803 of the light source 802 within two seconds. Then, a representative point is taken (all data may be used), and it is confirmed whether the point forms a straight line. Further, the direction in which the straight line is drawn and the repetition thereof are detected. For example, if two vertical movements (considering the return path) are confirmed at a specific time, an object described by VRLM on the screen is interpreted as a command to move the object downward by a certain amount. As another example, an operation of drawing an arc or a semicircle on the same plane is performed. This operation causes an object such as a VRLM to be interpreted as causing a certain amount of rotation (with respect to the xy plane) based on the center of the object in that direction.
[0149]
An example of a method for recognizing a trajectory will be described with reference to FIGS. 11, 12, and 13. FIG.
[0150]
As in the previous example, the system recognizes what the three-dimensional trajectory was from any point back in the past, eg, for two seconds. In the past two seconds, the recording is started from all the points at which the recording is performed. If at least one arc is recognized in the last two seconds, the command corresponding to the arc is immediately processed at that time. The parameters for confirming the vertical movement of the light source include a minimum distance 901 of the vertical movement (normal Y-axis direction perpendicular to the horizontal line) and a certain distance without vertical movement (horizontal x-axis direction same as the horizontal line). Is within the distance 902 of FIG.
[0151]
Similarly, in order to recognize a semicircular arc, the arc must have a sufficient minimum distance 104 from the line connecting the start point 101 and the end point 102 of the arc to the end 103 of the arc. For example, being within a certain location.
[0152]
Although these parameters may be set in advance, it is preferable that a command generation mode is provided so that the user can freely set the parameters.
[0153]
Therefore, an arbitrary three-dimensional shape can be registered as a command, and a custom-made command for each user can be used.
[0154]
[Eleventh embodiment]
It is also possible to rotate a VRML object by repeating a semicircular arc as a particularly interesting pattern on a plane parallel to the ground surface. The rotation direction can be defined by a natural interpretation from the time series relationship between the position of the start of the semicircular arc and the position where the light source makes a U-turn. Further, the drawn semicircular arc can be drawn not only in a plane or a vertical direction but also at an angle with respect to the plane. Therefore, the angle of the rotation plane with respect to the plane reference point of VRML defined therefrom can be naturally defined. Of course, the direction of rotation can be determined in the same manner as in the case of a plane. It is also possible to draw a circular arc instead of a semicircular arc and do the same as above.
[0155]
A description will now be given of how a VRML object can be moved very naturally using a three-dimensional motion, instead of a mouse constrained two-dimensionally as in the related art, using the three-dimensional trajectory command thus far.
[0156]
As shown in FIG. 14, it is assumed that there is a virtual space 1605 on the computer and a virtual three-dimensional object 1602 therein. An input closed space 1606 similar to the virtual space is set in front of the personal computer screen corresponding to this object. The degree of similarity starts when the user first sets a three-dimensional rectangular space as described in the first embodiment. When this is set in the VRML operation mode, the virtual space 1605 in the personal computer is compared with the three-dimensional input space 1606, and the ratio (including the ratio in each of the three axial directions) is obtained. Accordingly, the target three-dimensional virtual object 1602 (hereinafter, referred to as object A) can be defined as 1603 in the three-dimensional rectangular space corresponding to the ratio. Here, the object 1603 formed in the three-dimensional input space is referred to as an object B.
[0157]
The object B differs in the closed space and its properties defined so far. That is, this space is not fixed, and when the light source is inside, after a certain command, the relative position between the light source and the object B is fixed, and the light source moves in accordance with the movement in the three-dimensional input space. It is possible (see the third embodiment).
[0158]
Here, the movement may be a parallel movement or a rotational movement. In the case of the parallel movement, the object B moves as the light source moves. In this case, since there is no rotation, the relative direction of the object B with respect to the three-dimensional rectangular space does not change, but only the position changes. When the object B protrudes from the input three-dimensional space, the operation is repeated with an error message or the like.
[0159]
On the other hand, in the case of the rotational movement, there are two rotational movements in detail. One is when the rotation axis passes through the object B, and the other is when the rotation axis does not cross the object B.
[0160]
When the rotation axis passes through the object B, the rotation axis defined by the user or the rotation axis can be set in advance so as to pass through the so-called center of the object. When the rotation axis is set, first, the light source is taken out of the object B (it can be confirmed by feedback on a computer display), and it can be set by defining an arbitrary straight line 1604. The start and end of the straight line are set by clicking. Of course, when defining a straight line, if an intersection with the object B is formed, an error message may be issued and the operation may be repeated. Conversely, when the rotation axis is set to pass through B, if the defined straight line does not have an intersection with B, an error message is output and the operation is repeated.
[0161]
Similarly, in VRML, there is an operation of changing the viewpoint. In this operation, a common horizontal plane on VRML is considered, and a horizontal plane corresponding to the horizontal plane is set in the three-dimensional input space. Then, by moving the latter plane with the light source (Y-axis direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane), it is possible to change the viewpoint (the viewpoint is considered to be fixed with respect to this horizontal plane).
[0162]
As a feedback method, the position of the light source (a finger that moves the light source may be inserted) can be reflected on the VRML. Since this corresponds to the virtual space inside the computer and the three-dimensional input space outside the personal computer, it can be realized using computer graphic techniques.
[0163]
In this apparatus, the zoom operation in VRML is performed as follows. A light source is placed outside the object B in the input space, and the light source is moved in a direction perpendicular to the screen (z-axis) as viewed from the screen in a near-far-far-far or near-far-far-far direction to perform zooming and panning.
[0164]
Therefore, a virtual object in a virtual space such as VRML can be moved and rotated with a more realistic feeling.
[0165]
[Twelfth embodiment]
This will be described with reference to FIG.
[0166]
Here, it is assumed that two rectangular parallelepipeds of the command recognition area according to the first embodiment are defined first. The three-dimensional information of the screen may be determined in advance, or may be defined later by the user. For the sake of simplicity, a plane group defining each rectangular parallelepiped will be referred to as a screen A (having a total of six planes) and a screen B (having a total of six planes). It is also assumed that the two rectangular parallelepipeds are on the same plane but do not overlap (1104). As described above, the light source is not one diffused light but two diffused lights 1102 and 1103, and the diffused light is a pen or a stick 1101 as if it were on one line segment. It is assumed that it is physically fixed on the above.
[0167]
As described above, in this system, when a light source is recognized, its three-dimensional position is also determined. Since there are two light sources, an equation for a line segment connecting the two light sources is obtained. Further, the intersection between the equation and the screens A and B can be obtained. Since each screen does not overlap, it is a contradiction whether there is an intersection with each screen. That is, when the intersection is obtained, the screen can be selected, and the screen can be used for subsequent input. It should be noted that the line segments do not intersect on either screen.
[0168]
As a more specific application example, it is assumed that a personal computer classroom is held. Then, if the instructor wants to start only a specific personal computer or wants to show the pointer of the instructor, it is difficult to specify each personal computer individually. In such a case, it is convenient if the rectangular boxes defined in front of each personal computer can be selected collectively with the pointer.
[0169]
Therefore, a plurality of computer terminals and displays can be operated with one pointer.
[0170]
[Thirteenth embodiment]
This will be described with reference to FIG.
[0171]
A plurality of light sources (here, four light sources) 1206 are prepared, each light source has a different wavelength, and the light sources periodically emit light at regular intervals at certain intervals. Instead of four light sources, filters corresponding to four wavelengths with one light source may be arranged in front of the light sources in order.
[0172]
Reflectors 1202, 1203, 1204, and 1205 of the same size that reflect the wavelengths of four light sources are mounted on a seal 1201 (for example, 2 × 2 cm). The seal itself shall be made of a material that does not reflect at any wavelength. If there is a reflector of a specific wavelength, reflection of that wavelength can be confirmed. Therefore, here, 2 × 2 × 2 × 2 = 16 patterns can be performed depending on whether or not four reflectors are attached to the seal. Can be used as In FIG. 16, the state without the lower left reflector 1205 is represented by a dotted circle, and there are three other reflectors. Here, the above 2 × 2 cm is one example, and the size of the reflector can be reduced as much as possible by determining a size that allows the reflected light from the reflector to be sufficiently observed, so that the size of the seal can also be reduced.
[0173]
Use this sticker by sticking it on your finger, back of hand, or other place. It is also possible to attach the device to a person's shoulder and shine light when passing through the entrance to read the person's ID.
[0174]
【The invention's effect】
ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the operability for position measurement can be drastically improved without adding cost.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of defining an input area.
FIG. 2 is a principle diagram of a distance recognition device.
FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram of a distance recognition device and a light source.
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating that the number of duplicate cursors changes depending on the position of a light source.
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating movement of an input area.
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating feedback of a sense of distance near a boundary of an input area.
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing two light sources in an input area.
FIG. 8 is a diagram having two input areas.
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a set operation of an input area.
FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of input areas in different modes.
FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating three-dimensional input.
FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating three-dimensional input.
FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating three-dimensional input.
FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating moving a three-dimensional virtual body.
FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram of selecting a plurality of input areas.
FIG. 16 is a diagram of a plurality of reflectors having different wavelengths.
[Explanation of symbols]
R plane that overlaps the display plane in the input boundary area
A0 plane opposite to the display in the input boundary area
A2 plane near A0 in the input area
A1 plane outside the input area and close to A0
R1 closed area
R2 closed area
R3 closed area
Union of R0 R2 and R3
RN open area

Claims (24)

Recognition means for recognizing the position of the light source;
Definition means for defining at least one of a three-dimensional continuous closed input space and open input space based on the position of the light source recognized by the recognition means,
An input support device for position measurement having: The position measurement input support device according to claim 1, wherein the recognition unit simultaneously recognizes the positions of the plurality of light sources. An input support device for position measurement, comprising stimulating means for appealing to at least one of the five senses depending on whether the light source is inside the input space or outside the input space. An input support device for position measurement, comprising input space moving means for moving the input space in accordance with the movement of the position of the light source when the position of the light source is in the input space and a predetermined operation is performed. An input support device for position measurement, comprising: stimulating means for appealing to at least one of the five senses according to a distance from a boundary of the input space to the light source when the light source is in the input space. An input support device for position measurement, comprising command forming means for forming a command based on a time series pattern generated when a light source passes through different input closed spaces. Recording means for recording a time-series coordinate position of the light source;
Command execution means for executing a command formed by the command formation means according to a change in the coordinate position recorded by the recording means in the input closed space,
The input support device for position measurement according to claim 6, further comprising: Recognition means for recognizing a three-dimensional trajectory of the light source;
Conversion means for converting the three-dimensional trajectory recognized by the recognition means into a corresponding command;
The input support device for position measurement according to claim 6, further comprising: Multiple light sources,
Command generating means for generating a predetermined command when each of the plurality of predetermined light sources is in a predetermined three-dimensional area;
An input support device for position measurement having: Multiple light sources,
Recognition means for recognizing an input action performed in a predetermined three-dimensional area by a predetermined light source and an input action performed in at least one of the predetermined three-dimensional area and another three-dimensional area by another light source;
Command generation means for generating a predetermined command when recognized by the recognition means,
An input support device for position measurement having: An input support device for position measurement, comprising a set calculating means for performing a set calculation of a first continuous input space and a second continuous input space. When another input space is newly defined when the first continuous input space is defined, a first input space generating means for newly generating an input space for merging the two when there is a common part between the two. When,
When another input space is newly defined when the first continuous input space is defined, when both have a common part, a second input space generating means for generating the common part as a new input space When,
If another input space is newly defined when the first continuous input space is defined, when both have a common part, a new input space is generated by removing the common part from the first continuous input space. A third input space generating means,
If another input space is newly defined when the second continuous input space is defined, if both have a common part, a new input space is generated by removing the common part from the second continuous input space. A fourth input space generating means,
A fifth input space generating means for newly generating an input space obtained by removing the continuous space from the entire space when a new continuous input space is defined;
Sixth input space generating means for generating, as a new input space, a discontinuous space in which the first continuous input space and the second continuous input space having no common part are combined,
An input support device for position measurement having: A plurality of display devices corresponding to each of a plurality of three-dimensional input spaces;
When the light source is in a predetermined input space, cursor moving means for moving a cursor of the display device corresponding to the predetermined input space,
An input support device for position measurement having: 14. The position measurement input support device according to claim 13, further comprising an input mode setting unit configured to set a different input mode in each of the plurality of input areas. 14. The input support device for position measurement according to claim 13, further comprising a selection unit that selects a continuous input space having the intersection when a straight line connecting two light sources and one or more continuous input spaces have an intersection. One or more light sources having different wavelengths;
Light amount changing means for changing the light amount of the light source in a predetermined pattern,
An input support device for position measurement having: One or more light sources that generate light of different wavelengths in a predetermined pattern,
Of the light generated by the plurality of light sources, a plurality of reflection means that reflects only light of different wavelengths,
When the light reflected by the plurality of reflection means is the predetermined pattern, detection means for detecting whether there is light of a predetermined wavelength in the light reflected by the plurality of reflection means,
An input support device for position measurement having: A light source,
Measuring means for measuring the three-dimensional position of the light source;
Brightness change means for changing the brightness of the cursor according to the three-dimensional position of the light source measured by the measurement means;
An input support device for position measurement having: A light source,
Measuring means for measuring a three-dimensional position of the light source;
Changing means for changing a time delay of a position change of a cursor on a screen according to a change in a three-dimensional position of the light source measured by the measuring means;
An input support device for position measurement having: A light source,
Measuring means for measuring a three-dimensional position of the light source;
Auditory stimulating means for stimulating hearing according to the three-dimensional position of the light source measured by the measuring means;
An input support device for position measurement having: A first display control means for changing the number of duplicates of the cursor according to the three-dimensional position of the light source measured by the measuring means, and performing control for displaying the duplicates near the position where the cursor is displayed; The input support device for position measurement according to claim 18, comprising: 22. The position measurement input support according to claim 21, further comprising second display control means for displaying a copy of the cursor in the vicinity of the cursor display position and performing control to rotate and display the copy in accordance with the position of the light source. apparatus. 21. The position measurement input support device according to claim 20, further comprising an olfactory stimulating means for stimulating olfaction according to the three-dimensional position of the light source measured by the measuring means. Rotation axis definition means for defining a rotation axis for a virtual object in the virtual space;
Rotation means for rotating the virtual object with respect to the rotation axis defined by the rotation axis definition means,
The input support device for position measurement according to claim 4, further comprising:

Images