Computer graphics processing and selective visual display system – Display peripheral interface input device – Stylus
Reexamination Certificate
2000-04-21
2002-11-19
Saras, Steven (Department: 2675)
Computer graphics processing and selective visual display system
Display peripheral interface input device
Stylus
C340S008100, C345S156000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06483499
ABSTRACT:
The present invention relates to a 3D (three-dimensional) sculpturing input device for computerised 3D sculpturing.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Traditionally, while engraving a clay model using an engraving tool, the artist is able to feel the resistance of the clay material against cutting, in that the deeper the cut into the clay material is, the larger the resistive force is. Nowadays, sculpturing may also be performed by means of a computer, but the sense of the counteracting force against cutting is not available.
The invention seeks to provide a 3D sculpturing input device for computerized 3D sculpturing, which is capable of providing a sculptor with a feel of the cutting counteracting force.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to the invention, there is provided a sculpturing input device for computerized 3D sculpturing, which device comprises a base for connection to a computer installed with a virtual engraving program, a magnetic stylus for use with the base for controlling a virtual engraving tool to cut a virtual object of the program, an optical position measuring system provided at the base for measuring the position and direction of the stylus relative to the base, said position and direction determining the position and direction of said tool relative to said object, and a magnetic force feedback system provided at the base for exerting a magnetic resistive force upon the stylus when said tool cuts into said object, thereby simulating a counteracting resistive force of said object being cut.
It is preferred that the stylus have a magnetic tip, the tip having a series of two visually distinct parts along the tip.
More preferably, the two parts are both substantially spherical but have different sizes.
More preferably, the two parts are coated with fluorescent material.
In a preferred embodiment, the base has a generally flat body having a recess in which the stylus is to be used, and the optical position measuring system and the magnetic force feedback system are provided on at least one side of the recess.
More preferably, the optical position measuring system includes at least two image sensing units located to face the recess at intercepting angles and cover substantially the entire space of the recess. face the recess at intercepting angles and cover substantially the entire space of the recess.
Further more preferably, each image sensing unit is formed by a camera and an adjacent infra red signal emitter.
Further more preferably, the camera has a lens, and the infra red signal emitter has an annular arrangement of infra red light emitting diodes disposed around the lens, said lens and light emitting diodes pointing in the same direction forwards.
In a preferred embodiment, the magnetic force feedback system includes a plurality of electro-magnets located around the recess and underneath the recess.
More preferably, the electro-magnets are electronically controlled to provide a magnetic force of an increasing strength in an interactive manner when said engraving tool is cutting deeper into said object, for simulating the counteracting resistive force of a physical object being cut.
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Berkelman, Peter; Butler, Zack; Hollis, Ralph; “Design of a Hemispherical Magnetic Levitation Haptic Interface Device”; 1996 ASME Int. Mechanical Engr. Congress & Expo, Atlanta, Nov. 1996, DSC-vol. 58 pp. 483-488.
Chan Chi Hong
Li Li Man
Louie Derek
Hong Kong Productivity Council
Kumar Srilakshmi K.
Leydig , Voit & Mayer, Ltd.
Saras Steven
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