Home automation and smart devices have been a significant leap in technology, bringing unforeseen convenience into our lives. However, the patented technology, bearing the number US20230360264A1, could push this convenience to new heights by solving a long-standing problem.
Imagine this scenario: you walk into a room filled with smart devices – light bulbs, speakers, robot vacuum cleaners – and your Smartwatch identifies each device and displays controls for each on your wrist. That's precisely the problem this invention aims to solve.
Currently, this process could be quite hectic, given that most wearable gadgets can only detect the two-dimensional (2D) position of the devices. They can figure out a device is present but struggle with accurately pinpointing the gadget in a three-dimensional (3D) space. The issue is exacerbated when there are multiple similar devices in a room, with our wearables unable to distinguish between the gadgets. This limitation often leaves us with no choice but to manually engage with each appliance – rather than the seamless, futuristic control we would prefer.
Enter Google's latest patent. This invention proposes to combine the camera in wearable gadgets, like a smartwatch or Google Glass, with potent software. The software analyzes the image or video captured by the device and accurately recognizes and locates objects within.
Let's revisit our scenario, this time with our shiny new invention at work. You walk into your room, filled with smart devices. As you survey your domain, your smartwatch or Google Glass identifies each device and displays controls for each, overlaid on the device itself, right on your wearable gadget screen. The light bulb placement is displayed right above its actual location; the vacuum cleaner shows its controller right where it is parked. The seamless interaction we dreamed of is now achieved.
This technology, once available, might change the way we interact with home appliances extensively. The visually impaired could navigate their homes more easily and accurately. Parents could keep tabs on a child's internet and TV habits, toggling controls remotely as they deem necessary. These are just a fraction of the possibilities on how this patent could impact our lives.
As a closing note, it's crucial to remember that while this is an existing, filed patent (US Patent No. US20230360264A1), it doesn't guarantee the technology will hit the market. However, we can't help speculating about the repercussions of such an incredible development on our day-to-day lives. Let's watch this space as the future unfolds.