Method, Computer Program, and Device for Conveying Environmental Information to a User, and User Device

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

The invention concerns a method, computer program, and device for conveying environmental information to a user. It detects information about at least one object in the user's surroundings and, based on this data, generates control signals for a haptic feedback system. This system is designed to deliver feedback at locations different from the physical position of its actuators, enhancing how environmental cues are communicated to the user.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Assisting visually impaired users in navigating unfamiliar environments using haptic feedback.
• Providing immersive spatial awareness cues in virtual reality or augmented reality systems.
• Enhancing driver assistance systems in vehicles by warning about surrounding objects via focused haptic feedback.
• Guiding users in hazardous or industrial environments without relying on visual or auditory information.
• Enabling more intuitive human-computer interaction in wearable devices using location-independent tactile cues.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Delivers intuitive and non-intrusive feedback to users regardless of their sensory abilities.
• Allows feedback to be provided at virtual locations, not limited by the physical location of actuators, increasing flexibility.
• Enhances user safety and awareness, especially in situations where vision or hearing is compromised or overloaded.
• Improves accessibility of devices and environments for people with disabilities.
• Supports hands-free, eyes-free communication, which is beneficial in high-attention or dangerous contexts.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The present invention relates to a method, a computer program with instructions, and a device for communicating environmental information to a user. The invention further relates to a user device that uses such a device or such a method. In the method, information about at least one object in an environment of the user is determined (10). Based on the determined information, a control signal for controlling actuators of a haptic feedback system is determined (11). The haptic feedback system is configured to provide feedback also at a position that differs from the spatial positions of the actuators.