Virtual optical input device for providing various types of interfaces and method of controlling the same

Provided are a virtual optical input device and a method of controlling the same. In the method, a portion of an input means such as a finger, and a portion of a shadow of the input means generated by a light source are detected through image processing. Physical variations formed between them are used to detect the touch contact of the input means, calculate the position of the input means, and input the corresponding command. Accordingly, it is possible to provide various input patterns.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to a virtual optical input device capable of providing various types of interfaces and a method of controlling the same.

With recent development of semiconductor technology, an information communication apparatus has made much progress. Also, due to an information transmitting method of the information communication apparatus, an intuitive and efficient information transmitting method through characters and position information has increased in related art information communication apparatuses that have depended on simple voice signal transmission.

However, since input/output units of the information communication apparatus should be directly manipulated or recognized by a user, there is a limit in miniaturization and mobility.

Examples of an input device of a traditional information communication apparatus include a microphone for voice signals, a keyboard for inputting a specific key, and a mouse for inputting position input information.

Particularly, the keyboard and mouse is an optimized system for efficiently inputting characters or position information. However, since these units are poor in portability or mobility, substitutive devices are under development.

Various units such as a touchscreen, a touchpad, a pointing stick, and a simplified keyboard arrangement are being studied as the substitutive devices, but these devices have a limitation in operability and recognition.

SUMMARY

Embodiments provide a virtual optical input device that makes possible miniaturization of a structure and low power consumption so that it can be mounted inside a mobile communication apparatus, and that is not limited in flatness in a virtual optical input space, and a method of controlling the same.

In one embodiment, a virtual optical input device includes: a multi optical input pattern generator comprising a light source and a multi filter having a plurality of patterns formed therein, and irradiating light emitted from the light source onto the multi filter to form at least one of the patterns; an image receiver detecting and receiving an image of an input means and the formed optical input pattern; and an image processor detecting the position of the input means on the formed optical input pattern by use of the received image, and executing a command corresponding to the detected position of the input means.

In another embodiment, a method of controlling a virtual optical input device includes: forming at least one of two or more different optical input patterns, selected by a user, into a virtual optical input pattern; capturing an image of an input means over the virtual optical input pattern; calculating a portion of the input means, a portion of a shadow, and the related positions from the captured image; using the calculated position information to determine the contact of the input means; and executing a command corresponding to the contact point.

In further another embodiment, a virtual optical input device includes: a light source; a hologram pattern filter forming two or more different virtual optical input patterns according to the optical characteristics of light emitted from the light source; an image receiver detecting and receiving an image of an input means and the formed optical input pattern; and an image processor detecting the position of the input means on the formed optical input pattern by use of the received image, and executing a command corresponding to the detected position of the input means.

In still further another embodiment, a mobile device includes: a wireless communication unit performing wireless communication with a wireless communication system or another mobile device; a user input unit comprising a multi filter having a plurality of patterns formed therein, and receiving user input by detecting the contact between the position related to a portion of an input means and the position related to a portion of the shadow of the input means; a user input unit comprising an image processor; a display unit displaying information; a memory unit storing the input pattern and the corresponding command; and a control unit detecting the position of the input means on the formed optical input pattern by use of the received image, and executing a command corresponding to the detected position of the input means.

According to the present invention, a miniaturized virtual optical input device can be realized.

Also, according to the present invention, the number of parts used inside can be minimized, so that a virtual optical input device of low power consumption can be realized.

Also, according to the present invention, character inputting with excellent operability and convenience can be realized.

Also, according to the present invention, since the size of a virtual input space is not limited, the virtual input space can be variously used.

Also, since low power consumption and miniaturization are possible, a character input method of a mobile information communication apparatus can be developed remarkably.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

FIGS. 1A and 1Bare respectively a front view and a side view of a virtual optical input device according to an exemplary embodiment.

Referring toFIGS. 1A and 1B, when light formed in a shape of a predetermined pattern is emitted from an optical input pattern generator12, a virtual optical input pattern16is generated on a bottom. ThoughFIG. 1exemplarily illustrates that a keyboard-shaped input pattern is formed, the present disclosure is not limited thereto but includes various types of input patterns that can replace a mouse and a touchpad.

Also, an input means in the specification includes all the devices used for performing a predetermined input operation using the virtual optical input device. Generally, the input means includes a human finger and may include other objects such as a stylus pen depending on embodiments.

Also, an image receiver14is separated by a predetermined distance below the optical input pattern generator12. The image receiver14captures the virtual optical input pattern, the input means, and a shadow image corresponding to the input means.

The image receiver14may be disposed below the optical input pattern generator12so that an image excluding an image to be captured, that is, an image corresponding to a noise is not captured.

The image receiver14should have a suitable frame rate in order to capture the movement of the input means and determine whether the input means contacts or not. For example, the image receiver14may have a rate of about 60 frames/sec.

An image captured by the image receiver14is identified as the virtual input pattern, the input means, and the shadow image by an image processor (not shown). The image processor detects the positions of the input means and the shadow and executes a command corresponding to a contact point of the input means.

A method of identifying, by the image processor, each object from the received image, and a method of determining, by the image processor, whether the input means contacts will be described later.

FIG. 2is a block diagram of a virtual optical input device according to an exemplary embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 2, the virtual optical input device includes an optical input pattern generator12, an image receiver14, an image processor17, and a controller18. The optical input pattern generator12generates a virtual optical input pattern. The image receiver14captures the input pattern generated by the optical input pattern generator12, a portion of an input means, and a shadow image corresponding to the portion of the input means. The image processor17detects a position related with the portion of the input means and the portion of the shadow image from the image received by the image receiver14, and executes a command corresponding to a contact point in the portion of the input means. The controller18controls the image processor17to execute the command corresponding to the contact point when the portion of the input means contacts the virtual input pattern.

According to an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated inFIG. 3A, the optical input pattern generator12may include a light source22, a lens24condensing light emitted from the light source22, and a filter26passing light outputted from the lens24and having a pattern forming the optical input pattern.

According to another exemplary embodiment, as illustrated inFIG. 3B, the filter26may be disposed between the light source22and the lens24to generate a virtual optical input pattern.

Examples of the light source22include various kinds of light sources such as a laser diode (LD) and a light emitting diode (LED). Light emitted from the light source22passes through the lens24and the filter26to generate a specific pattern in a virtual character input space. The light source22is configured to emit light having intensity that can be visually perceived by a user.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the light source22may be divided into a generation light source generating a visible light pattern that can be perceived by a user, and a detection light source generating invisible light for detecting a contact of the input means.

The lens24may be a collimate lens and allows light incident thereto to be visually perceived by a user and magnifies, corrects, and reproduces in a size that can be sufficiently used by the input means.

The filter26is a thin film type filter and includes a pattern corresponding to a virtual optical input pattern to be formed.

The image receiver14captures and receives a virtual optical input pattern generated by the optical input pattern generator12, a portion of the input means, and a shadow corresponding to the portion of the input means.

The image receiver14may be realized using a camera module and may further include a lens at the front end of the image receiver14in order to allow an image to be formed on a photosensitive sensor inside the camera module. A complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) type photosensitive sensor may control a shooting speed depending on a shooting size. When the CMOS type photosensitive sensor is driven in a low resolution mode at a level that allows shooting of a human finger operation or speed, information required for implementing the present disclosure can be obtained.

The image processor17identifies the virtual optical input pattern, a portion of the input means, and a corresponding shadow image from an image received by the image receiver14, and detects the positions of the portions of the input means and the shadow thereof or positions related thereto to execute a command corresponding to a contact point in the portion of the input means.

Also, when determining that the portion of the input means contacts the virtual optical input pattern, the controller18controls the image processor17to execute the command corresponding to the contact point.

Therefore, since a virtual optical input device can be realized using even a small number of parts, the input device can be miniaturized.

FIGS. 4A and 4Bare views illustrating methods of determining whether a virtual optical input device contacts or not according to exemplary embodiments.

FIG. 4Ais a view illustrating a method of determining whether the input means28contacts a bottom using a distance difference between a portion of the input means28and a shadow30generated by the portion of the input means28.FIG. 4Bis a view illustrating a method of determining whether the input means28contacts a bottom using an angle difference θ between the portion of the input means28and the shadow30generated by the portion of the input means28.

The light source22is included in the optical input pattern generator12ofFIG. 2,3A or3B. The lens24or the filter26of the optical input pattern generator12is omitted inFIGS. 4A and 4Bfor simplicity in description. The image receiver14separated by a predetermined distance below the optical input pattern generator12(i.e., the light source22) captures an input pattern, an image of the input means28, and a corresponding shadow image30. Next, the image processor (not shown) identifies the input pattern, the image of the input means28, and the corresponding shadow image30from the image received by the image receiver14, and determines the positions of respective objects.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the image processor may determine whether the input means28contacts the bottom by detecting the portion of the input means28and the portion of the corresponding shadow30, or the positions related thereto.

For example, the image processor may continuously detect the position of the end28′ of the input means28and the position of the end30′ of the shadow30from the received image.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the image processor may detect the position of a finger knuckle of the input means28or the shadow30in order to determine a contact of the input means28.

Also, according to an exemplary embodiment, positions offset by a predetermined distance from the ends28′ and30′ of the input means28and the shadow30may be detected and used for determining a contact of the input means28.

Also, according to the present disclosure, whether the input means28contacts or sufficiently comes close to the bottom may be determined on the basis of an arbitrary variable changing as the input means28comes close to the bottom such as angle relation, a relative velocity, or a relative acceleration besides distance relation between positions related with the portion of the input means28and the shadow30thereof.

Though a case of using position information of the end28′ of the input means28and the end30′ of the shadow30has been described in the specification, the above-described various reference values may be used in order to determine whether the input means contacts or sufficiently comes close to the bottom.

Since technology of identifying an object from a captured image is well known to those of ordinary skill in the art, detailed description thereof is omitted.

Also, since technology of identifying an object from an image captured through image processing and finding out a boundary line using a brightness difference between adjacent pixels is also well known to and widely used by those of ordinary skill in the art, descriptions of image processing methods required for calculating the positions of a portion of the input means28and the portion of the shadow image30, or positions related thereto are omitted.

As illustrated inFIG. 4A, a distance difference between the end28′ of the input means28and the end30′ of the shadow30, or a distance difference between positions related with the input means28and the shadow30is continuously calculated. When the calculated distance difference is 0, it may be determined that the input means28contacts the bottom. According to on an exemplary embodiment, when the calculated distance difference becomes a predetermined threshold value or less, it may be determined that the input means28contacts the bottom.

At this point, even in a case of detecting another portion related with the input means28or the shadow30instead of the ends28′ and30′ of the input means28or the shadow30, a point when a distance between other portions related with the input means28or the shadow30is 0 or a predetermined threshold value or less may be detected.

Also, according to an exemplary embodiment, even in the case where the input means28does not actually contact the bottom, when the input means28comes close within a predetermined distance from the bottom, it may be determined that the input means contacts the bottom.

The distance may be determined using a straight line distance l between the end28′ of the input means28and the end30′ of the shadow, or using a horizontal distance d between a projected position of the bottom corresponding to the input means end28′ up to the shadow end30′.

According to another exemplary embodiment, as illustrated inFIG. 4B, an angle θ between the input means end28′ and the shadow end30′ may be calculated to determine a contact of the input means28. According to another exemplary embodiment, the contact of the input means may be determined on the basis of an angle between portions related with the input means28and the shadow30.

As illustrated in the left portions ofFIGS. 4A and 4B, when the input means28does not contact a space of a plane of the virtual optical input device, the distance l or d between the input means end28′ and the shadow end30′ has a non-zero value, or the angle θ between the input means end28′ and the shadow end30′ has a non-zero value.

However, when the input means28contacts the space of the plane of the virtual optical input device, the above values l, d, and θ become zero, and thus it may be determined that the input means28has contacted the plane.

As described above, according to an exemplary embodiment, when the above values l, d, and θ become a predetermined threshold value or less, it may be determined that the input means28contacts the plane.

As described above, when the input means28comes close within a predetermined distance to the plane though a contact does not actually occur, the input means may be determined to contact the plane and a subsequent process may be performed.

When a contact occurs, plane coordinates corresponding to a contact point may be calculated through image processing with reference to an image captured by the image receiver. When the controller orders a command corresponding to the coordinates of the contact point to be executed, the image processor executes the command.

According to an exemplary embodiment, as a reference for determining a contact of the input means28, the relative velocities and accelerations of the input means end28′ and the shadow end30′ may be used.

For example, when the relative velocities of the input means end28′ and the shadow end30′ are zero, it may be determined that the positions of the two objects are fixed.

Assuming that a direction in which the input means end28′ and the shadow end30′ come close is a (+) direction, and a direction in which the input means end28′ and the shadow end30′ go away is a (−) direction, when the relative velocity has a (+) value, it may be determined that the input means28comes close. On the other hand, when the relative velocity has a (−) value, it may be determined that the input means28goes away.

That is, a relative velocity is calculated from continuously shot images over continuous time information. When the relative velocity changes from a (+) value to a (−) value in an instant, it is determined that a contact occurs. Also, when the relative velocity has a constant value, it is determined that a contact occurs.

Also, acceleration information is continuously calculated, and when a (−) acceleration occurs in an instant, it is determined that a contact occurs.

As described above, relative velocity information or acceleration information of other portions of the input means28and the shadow30or other positions related thereto may be calculated and used.

To realize a computer algorithm on the basis of the above-described technology, continuous time information (that is, continuous shot images) is required. For this purpose, a structure that can constantly store and perform an operation on extracted information may be provided.

Therefore, for this purpose, image processing of an image received by the image receiver14is required. For example, images can be extracted over three continuous times t0, t1, and t2, and a velocity or acceleration can be calculated on the basis of the extracted images. Also, the continuous times t0, t1, and t2may be constant intervals.

Determining a contact of the input means28using the velocity information and the acceleration information can be used as a method of complementing a case where calculation and use of the distance information or the angle information are not easy.

As described above, according to the present disclosure, the input means28and the shadow30are identified from a captured entire image, so that positions thereof can be calculated. However, to identify each object from the captured entire image, a huge amount of operations are required and so a time may be delayed in identifying the images.

FIG. 5illustrates an optical input pattern generator40according to an exemplary embodiment. The optical input pattern generator40may be used as the optical input pattern generator12ofFIG. 2.

Referring toFIG. 5, the multi optical input pattern generator40may include a light source41, a lens42condensing light emitted from the light source41, and a multi filter44passing light outputted from the lens42and having a plurality of patterns corresponding respectively to optical input patterns. As inFIGS. 3A and 3B, the positions of the lens42and the multi filter44may be interchangeable.

The multi filter44may be configured to be movable in the horizontal direction with respect to the light source41and the lens12. Alternatively, the light source41may be configured to be movable with respect to the lens42and the multi filter44.

If light emitted from the light source41is inputted through the lens42to the multi filter44with the patterns, an optical input pattern corresponding to the pattern located at the input point of the light may be formed on the bottom.

The multi optical input pattern generator40may further include a drive unit (not illustrated) for moving the position of the light source41or the positions of the patterns in the multi filter44, in order to be able to select the pattern corresponding to the optical input pattern to be formed on the bottom, among the patterns of the multi filter44.

FIGS. 6A to 6Dillustrate embodiments of the multi filter44of the optical input pattern generator40illustrated inFIG. 5.

Referring toFIG. 6A, different shapes of patterns A, B, C and D are formed in the multi filter44in the lengthwise direction of the multi filter44, and the multi filter44is moved in the lengthwise direction to change an optical input pattern45to be formed on the bottom.

As illustrated inFIG. 6b, different shapes of patterns A, B, C and D may be formed in the multi filter44in such a way that their partial regions overlap each other.

The multi filter44can be more compacted by using the multi filter44ofFIG. 6B.

As illustrated inFIG. 6C, a plurality of patterns A, B, C, D, E, F, C and H are formed on a disk, and the disk is rotated to change an optical input pattern.

Also, as illustrated inFIG. 6D, a plurality of patterns A, B, C, D, E, F, G and H are coupled in a circular arrangement to construct a multi filter44. Likewise, the multi filter44is rotated to change an optical input pattern to be formed on the bottom.

As described above, a plurality of patterns are formed in the multi filter44in various ways and the patterns are moved, so that various virtual optical input patterns can be generated without replacing the filter.

The methods of forming virtual optical input patterns and the structures of the multi filters, described with reference toFIGS. 6A to 6D, are merely exemplary embodiments. The arrangement and the number of patterns formed in the multi filter44and the method of shifting the patterns may vary depending on embodiments.

FIG. 7illustrates a multi optical input pattern generator40according to another exemplary embodiment.

As illustrated inFIG. 7, the optical input pattern generator40may include a light source41, a lens42, and two or more filters44and47arranged in the vertical direction with respect to the light source41and the lens42. Also, at least one pattern may be formed in each of the filters44and47.

The filters44and47are moved within a plane parallel to the light source41and the lens42to change the pattern and filter receiving light emitted from the light source41, thereby changing the optical input pattern to be formed on the bottom.

FIGS. 8A and 8Billustrate exemplary embodiments of the structure of the multi filter of the virtual optical input device illustrated inFIG. 7.

Referring toFIG. 8A, the filters44and47are rotated in an arrow direction within a plane parallel to the light source41and the lens42to change the filter receiving light emitted from the light source41, thereby change the optical input pattern to be formed on the bottom.

For example, one pattern is formed in each of the filters44and47, and at least one of the filters44and47is rotated to be located at the light input point, so that an optical input pattern corresponding to the pattern formed in the filter located at the light input point can be formed on the bottom.

For example, an English keyboard pattern and a Korean keyboard pattern may be formed in each of the filters44and47. If filters are additionally provided, a Chinese keyboard pattern and a Japanese keyboard pattern may be formed respectively in the corresponding filters.

Also, if two or more patterns are formed in each of the filters44and47, at least one of the filters44and47is rotated to change the pattern and the filter located at the light input point, so that an optical input pattern corresponding to the pattern located at the light input point can be formed on the bottom.

Each of the filters44and47is coupled to a holder43, and the holder43is coupled to the drive unit to rotate the holder43, thereby rotating the filters44and47.

Referring toFIG. 8B, the filters44and47are moved in parallel to each other to change the filter receiving light emitted from the light source41, thereby change the optical input pattern to be formed on the bottom.

Likewise, the holder43is shifted to move the filters44and47.

FIGS. 9A and 9Billustrate other exemplary embodiments of a multi optical input pattern generator40.

Referring toFIG. 9A, a multi filter44may be embodied in the shape of a rotatory conveyor belt. A plurality of filters48are formed on a conveyor belt, and the conveyor belt is rotated to replace the filters.

Different shapes of patterns are formed on the outside of the filters48, and light emitted from a light source41to pass through a lens42is reflected by the multi filters48, so that an optical input pattern corresponding to the pattern formed at the light input point can be formed on the bottom.

For example, light emitted from the light source41is reflected toward the bottom by one of the multi filters48, thereby changing the optical input pattern formed on the bottom.

Also, as illustrated inFIG. 9B, a filter49may be formed on each side of a hexagonal or polygonal rotating frame. The rotating frame is rotated to select the desired pattern. Light emitted from the light source41is reflected toward the bottom by one of the filters formed on the respective sides, thereby changing the optical input pattern formed on the bottom.

Various shapes may be possible as illustrated inFIGS. 6A and 9B.

The patterns formed in the multi filter44, described with reference toFIGS. 7 to 9Bmay generate a virtual optical input pattern by using a hologram. Specifically, the patterns may be formed using a computer-generated hologram (CGH).

FIG. 10illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the structure of an optical input pattern generator having a hologram pattern filter included in the virtual optical input device. The optical input pattern generator may include a light source300and a hologram pattern filter310.

The light source300emits light toward the hologram pattern filter310, and the hologram pattern filter310forms two or more different virtual optical input patterns according to the characteristics of input light, so that at least one input pattern320among the virtual optical input patterns can be formed on the bottom.

To this end, specific patterns corresponding to the characteristics of input light may be recorded in the hologram pattern filter310.

The hologram pattern filter310is constructed using a holographic optical element (HOE). The shape of a pattern formed by the hologram pattern filter310may vary with a change in the characteristics of input light due to the characteristics of a holographic medium. Accordingly, the hologram pattern filter310can implement a variety of virtual optical input patterns in the same structure.

A holographic medium such as the hologram pattern filter310records two-dimensional optical patterns corresponding to optical characteristics, and reproduces an optical pattern corresponding to the optical characteristic if light is inputted. The use of such a storage method makes it possible to separately read data stored by a multiplexing technique in a spatially overlapping manner and to implement a page-based read operation that reproduces two-dimensional image simultaneously.

The hologram pattern filter310includes a plurality of books, and each book includes a plurality of pages formed in the same space, so that different data can be extracted according to the angles of incidence.

A predetermined page (i.e., a picture unit stored in one book) may be stored in a predetermined book (i.e., a predetermined space storing data). For example, an angle multiplexing technique, a phase multiplexing technique, or a wavelength multiplexing technique may be used as a method for recording/reproducing a pattern of a holographic medium.

That is, the characteristics of light, which makes it possible to select the input pattern320to be formed on the bottom among the optical patterns recorded in the hologram pattern filter310, may include at least one of the incidence angle, the wavelength and the phase of the light.

FIG. 11is a block diagram of an optical system using a holographic medium according to an exemplary embodiment. With reference toFIG. 11, a description will be given of a method for recording/reproducing a plurality of patterns in the hologram pattern filter310.

Referring toFIG. 11, the optical system using a holographic medium may include a light source400, a collimate lens401, a first beam splitter402, a spatial light modulator403, a second beam splitter404, a lens405, a first deflector407, a first telescope408, a first mirror409, a half-wavelength plate410, a second mirror411, a second deflector412, a second telescope413, and a detector414.

During the recording of a data page in the holographic medium, the half of reflection light generated by the light source400is transmitted by the first beam splitter402to the spatial light modulator403. This reflection light portion is called signal light.

The half of reflection light generated by the light source400is deflected by the first deflector407toward the first telescope408. This reflection light portion is called reference light. The signal light is spatially modulated by the spatial light modulator403. The spatial light modulator403includes address-assignable elements that can be assigned addresses as a transparent region and an absorbent region corresponding to a data bit of ‘0’ and a data bit of ‘1’ in a data page to be recorded. After passing through the spatial light modulator403, the signal light transmits a signal recorded in a holographic medium406, that is, a data page to be recorded. Thereafter, the signal light is focused by the lens405onto the holographic medium406.

The reference light is also focused by the first telescope408onto the holographic medium406. Accordingly, a data page is recorded on the holographic medium406in the shape of an interference pattern as a result of the interference between the signal light and the reference light. When the data page is recorded on the holographic medium406, another data page is recorded at the same position in the holographic medium406. To this end, data corresponding to the data page are transmitted to the spatial light modulator403. The first deflector407is rotated to change the angle of a reference signal for the holographic medium406. During the rotation, the first telescope408is used to maintain the reference light at the same position. Accordingly, the interference pattern is recorded at the same position in the holographic medium406as another pattern. This is called angle multiplexing. The same position of the holographic medium406recording a plurality of data pages is called a book.

Alternatively, the wavelength of the reflection light may be controlled to record the same book data pages. This is called wavelength multiplexing. Other types of multiplexing such as shift multiplexing may also be used to record data pages on the holographic medium. In result, a multiplexing parameter must be changed to record a plurality of pages in the same book. Hereinafter, for example, the term “multiplexing parameter” is used to identify the specific wavelength of the light source400or the specific angle of the reference light for an information medium. Also, two or more types of multiplexing may be used to record the data pages. For example, the wavelength of the light source400and the angle of the reference light for an information medium may be changed to record various data pages in the same book.

In this example, a data page is recorded with a specific angle and a specific wavelength. In this case, the term “multiplexing parameter” is used to identify a compound angle-wavelength. That is, the term “multiplexing parameter” is used to identify parameters or variable parameters used to record a specific data page in a book.

During the reading of a data page in the holographic medium406, the spatial light modulator403is made to be in a completely absorbent state, so that no portion of light can pass the spatial light modulator403. The first deflector407is removed to transmit a portion of light, generated by the light source400to pass the beam splitter402, to the second deflector412through the first mirror409, the half-wavelength plate410and the second mirror411. If an angle multiplexing technique is used to record data pages in the holographic medium406and if a given data page is desired to be read, the second deflector412is disposed such that the angle used to record a given hologram is identical to the angle of the second deflector412with respect to the holographic medium406.

For example, if a wavelength multiplexing technique is used to record data pages in the holographic medium406and if a given data page is desired to be read, the same wavelength is used to read the given data page. That is, a data page is read from a multiplexing parameter identical to a multiplexing parameter used to record the data page.

Thereafter, the reference signal is diffracted by an information pattern to generate a reproduced signal light, and the reproduced signal light is transmitted to the detector414through the lens405and the second beam splitter404. Accordingly, a data page with a formed image is formed on the detector414, so that the data page is detected by the detector414. The detector414has a plurality of pixel or detector components, and each of the detector components corresponds to one bit of the data page with the formed image.

FIGS. 12 to 19illustrate optical input pattern generators having a hologram pattern filter according to other exemplary embodiments.

Referring toFIG. 12, different virtual optical input patterns320,321,322and323can be formed on the bottom by controlling an incidence angle θ of light that is inputted to a hologram pattern filter310after being emitted from a light source300. To this end, an optical input pattern generator according to an exemplary embodiment may further include an incidence angle control unit (not illustrated) to change an incidence angle θ of light.

That is, a plurality of optical patterns are recorded in the hologram pattern filter310, the light source300emits light with various output angles, and one of a plurality of virtual optical input patterns is passed according to the incidence angle of light inputted to the hologram pattern filter310, thereby forming one or more selected virtual input patterns.

For example, four optical patterns corresponding to four incidence angles θ1, θ2, θ3and θ4may be recorded in the hologram pattern filter310, and the light source300emits light with one of the four incidence angles θ1, θ2, θ3and θ4.

If the incidence angle of light inputted to the hologram pattern filter310is θ1, an optical pattern recorded in the hologram pattern filter310is formed corresponding to the incidence angle θ1, so that a virtual optical input pattern320corresponding to the optical pattern is formed on the bottom.

Likewise, if the incidence angle of light inputted to the hologram pattern filter310is θ2, θ3or θ4, an optical pattern recorded in the hologram pattern filter310corresponding to each of the incidence angles is formed on the bottom.

The number of optical patterns recorded in the hologram pattern filter310may be smaller or greater than 4, and two or more lights with different incidence angles may be omitted from the light source300, so that two or more different virtual optical input patterns may be simultaneously formed on the bottom.

Also, the optical patterns recorded in the hologram pattern filter310may correspond to a combination of the wavelength and the incidence angle of light, so that the number of the optical patterns recorded in the hologram pattern filter310can be increased.

Referring toFIG. 13, a light source300generates the same light, and a hologram pattern filter310is rotated to control an incidence angle θ of light emitted from the light source300, so that a plurality of virtual optical input patterns320can be formed on the bottom.

That is, if the incidence angle of light emitted from the light source300is θ1, an optical pattern recorded in the hologram pattern filter310is formed corresponding to the incidence angle θ1, so that a virtual optical input pattern320corresponding to the optical pattern is formed on the bottom.

Also, if the hologram pattern filter310is moved to make an incidence angle of light θ1, it is changed into a virtual optical input pattern320corresponding to the incidence angle θ1.

Referring toFIG. 14, an optical input pattern generator according to an exemplary embodiment may include a light source400, a hologram pattern filter430, and a mirror420disposed therebetween.

An angle θ of the mirror420is controlled, with the other components fixed, to control an incidence angle of light inputted to the hologram pattern filter430, so that a plurality of virtual optical input patterns440can be formed on the bottom.

Also, as illustrated inFIG. 14, a lens410may be disposed between the light source400and the mirror420. The optical input pattern generators illustrated inFIGS. 10,12and13may also have a lens disposed between the light source and the hologram pattern filter.

Referring toFIG. 15, a light source500is moved to control an incidence angle θ of light inputted to a hologram pattern filter510, so that a virtual optical input pattern520formed on the bottom can have a plurality of patterns.

Referring toFIG. 16, an optical input pattern generator may include a plurality of light sources500,501,502and503. At least one of the light sources500,501,502and503is used to emit light to a hologram pattern filter510, and an incidence angle θ of light inputted to the hologram pattern filter510can be changed depending on the light source emitting the light. Because the positions of the light sources are different, the incidence angles θ on the hologram pattern filter510are different.

For example, the optical input pattern generator ofFIG. 16may further include a power control unit (not illustrated) that controls the power of the light sources500,501,502and503. The power control unit may turn on only one of the light sources500,501,502and503. Thus, only one of the light sources500,501,502and503may be turned on to input various angles of light to the hologram pattern filter510, thereby forming different shapes of optical input patterns520on the bottom.

Also, if two or more of the light sources500,501,502and503emit light, two or more virtual optical input patterns can be simultaneously formed on the bottom.

The positions of optical input patterns, formed on the bottom respectively by the light sources500,501,502and503, may overlap with each other as illustrated inFIG. 16or may not overlap with each other as illustrated inFIG. 17.

Referring toFIG. 18, a hologram pattern filter530is circular such that its section has a curved shape. Accordingly, it is possible to minimize an image distortion that may be generated when light emitted from light sources500,501,502and503passes through the hologram pattern filter530.

Referring toFIG. 19, an optical input pattern generator may include a plurality of light sources600,601,602and603that emit light of different wavelengths. At least one of the light sources600,601,602and603is used to emit light to a hologram pattern filter610, so that a wavelength f of light inputted to the hologram pattern filter610can be controlled.

That is, a plurality of optical patterns according to light wavelengths is recorded in the hologram pattern filter610, and at least one of the light sources600,601,602and603emits light with a wavelength corresponding to an optical pattern to be formed on the bottom, thereby forming one or more virtual input patterns selected among virtual optical input patterns.

For example, four optical patterns corresponding respectively to four incidence angles f1, f2, f3and f4may be recorded in the hologram pattern filter810, and a power control unit (not illustrated) may turn on one of the light sources600,601,602and603, thereby forming an optical pattern corresponding to the light wavelength of the turned-on light source among the optical patterns recorded in the hologram pattern filter610.

Also, if two or more of the light sources600,601,602and603emit light, two or more optical input patterns corresponding respectively to the wavelengths of the emitted light can be simultaneously formed on the bottom.

Unlike the illustration ofFIG. 19, the optical input pattern generator may include only one light source. In this case, the wavelength of light emitted from the light source may be controlled so that the optical input pattern generator can form a plurality of virtual optical input patterns.

The optical input pattern generator may include a plurality of light sources (not illustrated) that emit light of different phases. In this case, a plurality of virtual optical input patterns can be formed on the bottom according to the phase of light inputted to the hologram pattern filter.

It has been exemplarily described that the virtual optical input device forms a plurality of virtual optical input patterns by using the hologram pattern filter and controlling one of the incidence angle, wavelength and phase of light, to which the present invention is not limited. For example, a combination of two or more of the incidence angle, wavelength and phase of light may be used to form virtual optical input patterns.

Referring toFIG. 20, a virtual optical input pattern650may include two input spaces651and652that are spatially separated. For example, the input spaces651and652may correspond respectively to a data input space (such as a keyboard) and a position information input space such as a mouse or a touchpad.

This configuration turns on two of the aforesaid light sources emitting light with different characteristics, so that two input patterns can be disposed in different spaces and an optical pattern recorded in the hologram pattern filter can be formed into two different separate optical patterns.

The position information input space652may be used as a virtual device such as a mouse or a touchpad in an embodiment that needs relative coordinates of a user input unit. The key information input space651may be used as a virtual device such as a keyboard in an embodiment that needs absolute coordinates of a user input unit.

The information calculating algorithms of the two spaces are different from each other. The position information input space652uses a relative motion vector to calculate the position shift information of a touching finger tip in the previous photograph image and the current photograph image, thereby calculating the position information on the screen.

On the other hand, the key information input space651detects and calculates the position where a key input event occurs in the current photograph image.

Thus, a switch between two modes is necessary, and the previous image state and the current image state are determined to determine the mode of a virtual input device controlled by a user, thereby controlling the device.

That is, referring toFIG. 2, when the image receiver14captures and receives an image, the image processor17detects the position of an input means such as a finger and determines the space where the detected finger position is present, thereby switching to a suitable mode.

If the detected finger position is present in the key information input space651, an efficient information calculation can be made with a smaller amount of arithmetic operation because the controller18has only to perform an arithmetic operation on the key information input space651.

The virtual input unit according to embodiments can be applied to various types of mobile devices and non-mobile devices. Examples of the mobile devices include cellular phones, smart phones, notebook computers, digital broadcasting terminals, personal digital assistants (PDAs), portable multimedia players (PMPs), and navigators.

FIG. 21is a block diagram of a mobile device100according to an exemplary embodiment. The mobile device may be implemented using a variety of different types of devices. Examples of such devices include mobile phones, user equipment, smart phones, computers, digital broadcast devices, personal digital assistants, portable multimedia players (PMP) and navigators. By way of non-limiting example only, further description will be with regard to a mobile device. However, such teachings apply equally to other types of devices.FIG. 21shows the mobile device100having various components, but it is understood that implementing all of the illustrated components is not a requirement. Greater or fewer components may alternatively be implemented.

FIG. 21shows a wireless communication unit110configured with several commonly implemented components. For instance, the wireless communication unit110typically includes one or more components which permits wireless communication between the mobile device100and a wireless communication system or network within which the mobile device is located.

The broadcast receiving module111receives a broadcast signal and/or broadcast associated information from an external broadcast managing entity via a broadcast channel. The broadcast channel may include a satellite channel and a terrestrial channel. The broadcast managing entity refers generally to a system which transmits a broadcast signal and/or broadcast associated information. Examples of broadcast associated information include information associated with a broadcast channel, a broadcast program, a broadcast service provider, etc. For instance, broadcast associated information may include an electronic program guide (EPG) of digital multimedia broadcasting (DMB) and electronic service guide (ESG) of digital video broadcast-handheld (DVB-H).

The broadcast signal may be implemented as a TV broadcast signal, a radio broadcast signal, and a data broadcast signal, among others. If desired, the broadcast signal may further include a broadcast signal combined with a TV or radio broadcast signal.

The mobile communication module112transmits/receives wireless signals to/from one or more network entities (e.g., base station, Node-B). Such signals may represent audio, video, multimedia, control signaling, and data, among others.

The wireless Internet module113supports Internet access for the mobile device. This module may be internally or externally coupled to the device.

Position-location module115identifies or otherwise obtains the location of the mobile device. If desired, this module may be implemented using global positioning system (GPS) components which cooperate with associated satellites, network components, and combinations thereof.

Audio/video (A/V) input unit120is configured to provide audio or video signal input to the mobile device. As shown, the A/V input unit120includes a camera121and a microphone122. The camera receives and processes image frames of still pictures or video.

The microphone122receives an external audio signal while the portable device is in a particular mode, such as phone call mode, recording mode and voice recognition. This audio signal is processed and converted into digital data. The portable device, and in particular, A/V input unit120, typically includes assorted noise removing algorithms to remove noise generated in the course of receiving the external audio signal. Data generated by the A/V input unit120may be stored in memory unit160, utilized by output unit150, or transmitted via one or more modules of communication unit110. If desired, two or more microphones and/or cameras may be used.

The user input unit130generates input data responsive to user manipulation of an associated input device or devices. Examples of such devices include a keypad, a dome switch, a touchpad (e.g., static pressure/capacitance), a touch screen panel, a jog wheel and a jog switch.

The virtual optical input device according to the present invention can be used as part of the user input unit130.

The sensing unit140provides status measurements of various aspects of the mobile device. For instance, the sensing unit may detect an open/close status of the mobile device, relative positioning of components (e.g., a display and keypad) of the mobile device, a change of position of the mobile device or a component of the mobile device, a presence or absence of user contact with the mobile device, orientation or acceleration/deceleration of the mobile device.

The sensing unit140may comprise an inertia sensor for detecting movement or position of the mobile device such as a gyro sensor, an acceleration sensor etc or a distance sensor for detecting or measuring the distance relationship between the user's body and the mobile device.

The interface unit170is often implemented to couple the mobile device with external devices. Typical external devices include wired/wireless headphones, external chargers, power supplies, storage devices configured to store data (e.g., audio, video, pictures, etc.), earphones, and microphones, among others. The interface unit170may be configured using a wired/wireless data port, a card socket (e.g., for coupling to a memory card, subscriber identity module (SIM) card, user identity module (UIM) card, removable user identity module (RUIM) card), audio input/output ports and video input/output ports.

The output unit150generally includes various components which support the output requirements of the mobile device. Display151is typically implemented to visually display information associated with the mobile device100. For instance, if the mobile device is operating in a phone call mode, the display will generally provide a user interface or graphical user interface which includes information associated with placing, conducting, and terminating a phone call. As another example, if the mobile device100is in a video call mode or a photographing mode, the display151may additionally or alternatively display images which are associated with these modes.

A touch screen panel may be mounted upon the display151. This configuration permits the display to function both as an output device and an input device.

The display151may be implemented using known display technologies including, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a thin film transistor-liquid crystal display (TFT-LCD), an organic light-emitting diode display (OLED), a flexible display and a three-dimensional display. The mobile device may include one or more of such displays.

FIG. 21further shows an output unit150having an audio output module152which supports the audio output requirements of the mobile device100. The audio output module is often implemented using one or more speakers, buzzers, other audio producing devices, and combinations thereof. The audio output module functions in various modes including call-receiving mode, call-placing mode, recording mode, voice recognition mode and broadcast reception mode. During operation, the audio output module152outputs audio relating to a particular function (e.g., call received, message received, and errors).

The output unit150is further shown having an alarm153, which is commonly used to signal or otherwise identify the occurrence of a particular event associated with the mobile device. Typical events include call received, message received and user input received. An example of such output includes the providing of tactile sensations (e.g., vibration) to a user. For instance, the alarm153may be configured to vibrate responsive to the mobile device receiving a call or message. As another example, vibration is provided by alarm153as a feedback responsive to receiving user input at the mobile device, thus providing a tactile feedback mechanism. It is understood that the various output provided by the components of output unit150may be separately performed, or such output may be performed using any combination of such components.

The memory unit160is generally used to store various types of data to support the processing, control, and storage requirements of the mobile device. Examples of such data include program instructions for applications operating on the mobile device, contact data, phonebook data, messages, pictures, video, etc. The memory unit160shown inFIG. 21may be implemented using any type (or combination) of suitable volatile and non-volatile memory or storage devices including random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), read-only memory (ROM), magnetic memory, flash memory, magnetic or optical disk, card-type memory, or other similar memory or data storage device.

The control unit180typically controls the overall operations of the mobile device. For instance, the controller performs the control and processing associated with voice calls, data communications, video calls, camera operations and recording operations. If desired, the controller may include a multimedia module181which provides multimedia playback. The multimedia module may be configured as part of the control unit180, or this module may be implemented as a separate component.

The power supply unit190provides power required by the various components for the portable device. The provided power may be internal power, external power, or combinations thereof.

For a software implementation, the embodiments described herein may be implemented with separate software modules, such as procedures and functions, each of which perform one or more of the functions and operations described herein. The software codes can be implemented with a software application written in any suitable programming language and may be stored in memory (for example, memory unit160), and executed by a controller or processor (for example, control unit180).

The mobile device100ofFIG. 21may be configured to operate within a communication system which transmits data via frames or packets, including both wireless and wired communication systems, and satellite-based communication systems. Such communication systems utilize different air interfaces and/or physical layers.

Examples of such air interfaces utilized by the communication systems include example, frequency division multiple access (FDMA), time division multiple access (TDMA), code division multiple access (CDMA), and universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS), the long term evolution (LTE) of the UMTS, and the global system for mobile communications (GSM). By way of non-limiting example only, further description will relate to a CDMA communication system, but such teachings apply equally to other system types.

Referring now toFIG. 22, a CDMA wireless communication system is shown having a plurality of mobile devices100, a plurality of base stations270, base station controllers (BSCs)275, and a mobile switching center (MSC)280. The MSC280is configured to interface with a conventional public switch telephone network (PSTN)290. The MSC280is also configured to interface with the BSCs275. The BSCs275are coupled to the base stations270via backhaul lines. The backhaul lines may be configured in accordance with any of several known interfaces including, for example, E1/T1, ATM, IP, PPP, Frame Relay, HDSL, ADSL, or xDSL. It is to be understood that the system may include more than two BSCs275.

Each base station270may include one or more sectors, each sector having an omnidirectional antenna or an antenna pointed in a particular direction radially away from the base station270. Alternatively, each sector may include two antennas for diversity reception. Each base station270may be configured to support a plurality of frequency assignments, with each frequency assignment having a particular spectrum (e.g., 1.25 MHz, 5 MHz).

The intersection of a sector and frequency assignment may be referred to as a CDMA channel. The base stations270may also be referred to as base station transceiver subsystems (BTSs). In some cases, the term “base station” may be used to refer collectively to a BSC275, and one or more base stations270. The base stations may also be denoted “cell sites.” Alternatively, individual sectors of a given base station270may be referred to as cell sites.

A terrestrial digital multimedia broadcasting (DMB) transmitter295is shown broadcasting to portable/mobile devices100operating within the system. The broadcast receiving module111(FIG. 21) of the portable device is typically configured to receive broadcast signals transmitted by the DMB transmitter295. Similar arrangements may be implemented for other types of broadcast and multicast signaling (as discussed above).

FIG. 22further depicts several global positioning system (GPS) satellites300. Such satellites facilitate locating the position of some or all of the portable devices100. Two satellites are depicted, but it is understood that useful positioning information may be obtained with greater or fewer satellites. The position-location module115(FIG. 21) of the portable device100is typically configured to cooperate with the satellites300to obtain desired position information. It is to be appreciated that other types of position detection technology, (i.e., location technology that may be used in addition to or instead of GPS location technology) may alternatively be implemented. If desired, some or all of the GPS satellites300may alternatively or additionally be configured to provide satellite DMB transmissions.

During typical operation of the wireless communication system, the base stations270receive sets of reverse-link signals from various mobile devices100. The mobile devices100are engaging in calls, messaging, and other communications. Each reverse-link signal received by a given base station270is processed within that base station. The resulting data is forwarded to an associated BSC275. The BSC provides call resource allocation and mobility management functionality including the orchestration of soft handoffs between base stations270. The BSCs275also route the received data to the MSC280, which provides additional routing services for interfacing with the PSTN290. Similarly, the PSTN interfaces with the MSC280, and the MSC interfaces with the BSCs275, which in turn control the base stations270to transmit sets of forward-link signals to the mobile devices100.