System and method for social dancing

TECHNICAL FIELD

p-0002The present disclosure relates to dancing in general, and to system and method for social dancing, in particular.

BACKGROUND

p-0003Dance games are a popular class of electronic games. However, the currently available dance games do not relate to the activity of social dancing, in which two or more partners dance with each other.

p-0004The currently available games provide the participants visual and auditory cues, thereby allowing the participants to interact with the game system. Each cue may signal the participant to perform a certain movement or subroutine, thereby instructing the participant to perform a predetermined dance routine.

BRIEF SUMMARY

p-0005One exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter is a system comprising: a movement registration module configured to monitor and identify movements by a participant; and a tactile feedback actuator configured to supply tactile feedback to the participant based on a determination by a logic module.

p-0006Another exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter is a computer-implemented method performed by a computerized device, the method comprising: monitoring movements by a participant; determining feedback in response to the movements; and instructing a tactile feedback actuator to supply the feedback to the participant.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

p-0007The present disclosed subject matter will be understood and appreciated more fully from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the drawings in which corresponding or like numerals or characters indicate corresponding or like components. Unless indicated otherwise, the drawings provide exemplary embodiments or aspects of the disclosure and do not limit the scope of the disclosure. In the drawings:

p-0008<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1A-1F</figref> shows a schematic illustration of a computerized environment, in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter;

p-0009<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> shows a schematic illustration of a body-worn device, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter;

p-0010<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3A</figref> shows a flowchart of steps in a method for performing a social dance with a remote partner, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter;

p-0011<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3B</figref> shows a flowchart of steps in a method for performing a social dance with a virtual partner, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; and

p-0012<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> shows a block diagram of components of a system, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

p-0013The disclosed subject matter is described below with reference to flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems) and computer program products according to embodiments of the subject matter. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

p-0014These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable medium that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable medium produce an article of manufacture including instruction means which implement the function/act specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

p-0015The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide processes for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

p-0016One technical problem dealt with by the disclosed subject matter is providing a human participant to participate in a social dance without having a partner in the same physical location. In some exemplary embodiments, two people at remote locations would like to dance with each other. Additionally or alternatively, a person would like to perform social dancing activity with a virtual partner.

p-0017Social dance activity is based on tactile feedback between the participants, and in many cases is indifferent to visual and auditory cues from the dance partners. Social dancers, depending on the dance, usually make contact hand-to-hand, chest-to-chest, and hand-to-back during the dance routine. Some dancers may even close their eyes when performing a social dance, and focus on the non-visual cues that their dance partner provides.

p-0018Another technical problem is to enable plurality of users to participate in a virtual party, such as a ballroom dance.

p-0019Yet another technical problem is to allow users to perform any co-operative physical activity, such as but not limited to a martial art exercise, social dance routine, or the like, without being located in the same physical location.

p-0020One technical solution provided by the disclosed subject matter is a system comprising movement registration module used to interpret the movements of the participant and a tactile feedback actuator that is configured to provide tactile feedback to the participant. As social dance is based on tactile feedback, merely being able to see a representation of one's partner is inadequate—a way to ‘feel’ them is preferable. The tactile feedback may provide such feedback that simulates the feedback of a dancing partner.

p-0021The tactile feedback may be provided based on a response of a dance partner to the participant's movements or dance routines. For clarity, the disclosed subject matter refers to the participant as a male while the dance partner is referred to as a female. However, the disclosed subject matter is not limited in such a way. Furthermore, the disclosed subject matter may be used for social dance routines involving more than two participants, such as square dance, Rueda, or the like.

p-0022In some exemplary embodiments, the dance partner may be a virtual dance partner whose actions may be determined by a computer. In some exemplary embodiments, a dancing logic module may calculate the movements of a simulated partner of given skill and style and simulates the tactile feedback accordingly. Additionally or alternatively, the dance partner may be a real dance partner that is in a remote location. The remote dancing partner may act in response to the participant's movements and based upon her responses, tactile feedback may be provided to the participant, such as reflecting the dance partner's movements. In some exemplary embodiments, the tactile feedback may represent the movement of the partner.

p-0023In some exemplary embodiments, the participant may be provided with visual and/or audio-based feedback. In some exemplary embodiments, visual feedback may include a graphical display of the dance partner. In some exemplary embodiments, the dance partner may be filmed in real-time and his or her image may be provided. In some exemplary embodiments, an avatar, such as a 3D avatar of the partner may be displayed. In some exemplary embodiments, such as in case the partner is virtual, the avatar may be generated based on computations by the dancing logic module. In some exemplary embodiments, the avatar may be structured based upon the body structure of the partner.

p-0024In some exemplary embodiments, the graphical display may further include the participant himself. The image of the participant can be real, such as captured by camera. Additionally or alternatively, the image may be enhanced to look as either dancer pleases.

p-0025In some exemplary embodiments, the graphical display may be provided using a display such as a television screen or projector. Additionally or alternatively, the graphical display may be provided in an Augmented Reality (AR) manner, such as Augmented Reality glasses. Augmented Reality devices may be used to increase the participant's feeling that he is dancing with a dance partner, such as by displaying in augmented reality the dance partner in his arms.

p-0026In some exemplary embodiments, a dance party with many people (e.g. a ballroom) can be simulated. In some exemplary embodiments, on every participant's side augmented reality devices which simulates the party room may be used. In some exemplary embodiments, anybody could be invited to join the dance party, so as to provide for a virtual dance party based on actual human interaction. In some exemplary embodiments, a simulated ballroom may be computed in which some dancers are humans and some are AI-based.

p-0027In some exemplary embodiments, a social dance between two real partners may be presented as part of a larger party that includes virtual dancers. Though only two people are dancing the disclosed subject matter may making it feel like both dancers are part of a larger party.

p-0028In some exemplary embodiments, a participant may switch a dance partner from time to time. In some exemplary embodiments, the participant may switch between real and virtual partners.

p-0029In some exemplary embodiments, the movement registration module may include a motion sensing input device. The motion sensing input device may be, for example, a remote sensor, such as a video camera, a Kinect™-like system which is based on remotely sensing user movement using radar, sound or the like. Additionally or alternatively, the motion sensing input device may be a body-worn device, such as a glove or body-worn outfit that is capable of sensing, such as using accelerometer, optical sensor, depth sensors, and other electronic means known in the art to sense movement of a person wearing the device. It will be noted that in the present disclosure “body-worn” may refer to an item that is worn by a participant, held or carried by him, or otherwise coupled to the body of the participant.

p-0030In some exemplary embodiments, the same body-worn device used for motion sensing may include the tactile feedback actuator.

p-0031In some exemplary embodiments, the tactile feedback actuator may be located on the participant's body so as to supply tactile feedback on the participant's hand, chest, back, hips, or the like.

p-0032In some exemplary embodiments, a body-worn device may be limited, in comparison to external devices, as it may be required to give the feeling of outside force a mobile device but it may not actually apply outside force. In some exemplary embodiments, an external device may limit the movements of the participant and therefore it may be desired to avoid the use thereof.

p-0033In some exemplary embodiments, the disclosed subject matter may be configured to identify movements and reflect those movements on a dance partner. In some exemplary embodiments, precision of reflection may be desired, such as to allow professional dancers or martial art experts to improve their performance and detect subtle differences. In some exemplary embodiments, it may not be sufficient to simply interpret a gesture to comprehend the participant's intent, but rather it may be desirable to reflect the movements as is and allow the dance partner interpret the underlying intent on her own.

p-0034One technical effect may be enabling a participant to interact with an electronic system by performing social dancing. Another technical effect may be allowing the participant to interact with the system without relying on his sense of sight (e.g., with his eyes closed). Yet another technical effect may be to increase range of social interactions with remote users to include social dancing activities.

p-0035Referring now to <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1A</figref> showing an illustration of a computerized environment, in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

p-0036A Participant <b>110</b>, located in a Location <b>100</b>, may perform social dancing activity using a computerized system in accordance with the disclosed subject matter. A Motion Sensing Input Device <b>130</b> may capture movements of Participant <b>110</b>. It will be noted that in some exemplary embodiments Motion Sensing Input Device <b>130</b> may be a remote sensor, such as video camera, as is exemplified in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1A</figref>. Additionally or alternatively, other forms of remote sensors, such as using infrared projectors, camera, microphone array, depth sensors, or additional sensors. One example of such remote sensor is commercially available in Microsoft Kinect™. Additionally or alternatively, Motion Sensing Input Device <b>130</b> may be a body-worn device or any other device capable of detecting motion of Participant <b>110</b>. In some exemplary embodiments, Motion Sensing Input Device <b>130</b> may be incorporated with a Tactile Feedback Actuator <b>120</b> which is body-worn.

p-0037In some exemplary embodiments, Motion Sensing Input Device <b>130</b> may transmit, either wirelessly (e.g., using wireless transmitter <b>132</b>) or wired manner detected motions to a Computer <b>135</b> (e.g., using wireless transceiver <b>136</b>). Computer <b>135</b> may comprise a processor (not shown) and memory (not shown). Computer <b>135</b> may include a movement registration module (not shown) that is configured to receive movement information detected by Motion Sensing Input Device <b>130</b>, interpret those movement to determine how to reflect them on a dance partner. In some exemplary embodiments, movement registration module may receive a video feed from a Motion Sensing Input Device <b>130</b> (i.e., in an embodiment using a video camera) and interpret the video and motions performed by Participant <b>110</b> as appearing in the video.

p-0038In response to the actions of Participant <b>110</b> Computer <b>135</b> may determine a response by the dance partner. A Tactile Feedback Actuator <b>120</b> may receive commands from Computer <b>135</b> (e.g., via transceiver <b>122</b>) and may supply tactile feedback to participant simulating response by the dance partner.

p-0039In some exemplary embodiments, the simulated dance partner may be a virtual dance partner whose actions are determined based on calculations of Computer <b>135</b>. Additionally or alternatively, the simulated dance partner may be based on a Dance Partner <b>160</b> located in Remote Location <b>150</b>. In some exemplary embodiments, Dance Partner <b>160</b> may use similar system, such as including a Computer <b>190</b>, a Tactile Feedback Actuator <b>170</b> and a Motion Sensing Input Device <b>180</b> to allow Dance Partner <b>160</b> to interact with a computerized system. Based on motions performed by Participant <b>110</b>, feedback may be provided to Dance Partner <b>160</b>, who may perform a response, effect thereof may be simulated as a tactile feedback that is supplied to Participant <b>110</b>.

p-0040In some exemplary embodiments, Computer <b>135</b> and Computer <b>190</b> may be connected to each other via a computerized network, such as a WAN, a LAN, a Wi-Fi network, an intranet, the Internet, or the like. Computers <b>135</b><b>190</b> may transfer information therebetween to allow each system to simulate movement of the other participant.

p-0041In some exemplary embodiments, Computer <b>190</b> may provide video capture of Dance Partner <b>160</b> to be used in a graphical display provided as a visual feedback to Participant <b>110</b>. In some exemplary embodiments, Participant <b>110</b> may wear Augmented Reality (AR) Glasses <b>140</b> which provides the graphical display. AR Glasses <b>140</b> may comprise a see-through screen which is capable displaying layered information over the view. The graphical display may be determined in a manner that displays the Dance Partner <b>160</b> in proximity to Participant <b>110</b> as if located beside him while dancing. Additionally or alternatively, the graphical display may be displayed on a display or screen (not shown).

p-0042Referring now to <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1B</figref> showing an illustration of a computerized environment, in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

p-0043Tactile Feedback Actuator <b>120</b> may further be connected to Support <b>122</b>, Support <b>124</b>, or the like. Support <b>122</b> may provide a resting point for Participant's hand. In some exemplary embodiments, Support <b>122</b> may comprise of a rod having a resting point in a leading end thereof. In some exemplary embodiments, Supports <b>122</b>, <b>124</b> may be adjusted to match Participant's characteristics, such as by extending a telescopic rod, by adjusting the direction of the rod, or the like. The location of the resting point may be adjusted to match a location of the hand of Participant <b>110</b> when dancing with a dance partner. In some exemplary embodiments, the location of the resting point may be adjusted to patch Participant's dance frame.

p-0044In some exemplary embodiments, Support <b>122</b> may be responsive to force applied to it, such as a force of Participant's hand pushing or pulling the resting point while performing a dance routine. Sensors in Support <b>122</b> may detect application of such force, and may be utilized in addition to or instead of Motion Sensing Input Device <b>130</b> capable of remotely sensing Participant's <b>110</b> motion.

p-0045In some exemplary embodiments, Support <b>122</b> and <b>124</b> may or may not be joint at their base. In some exemplary embodiments, Support <b>122</b> and Support <b>124</b> may be constructed from flexible material allowing them to bend if their rods cross each other, such as when performing

p-0046Referring now to <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1C-E</figref> showing illustrations of a computerized environment, in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

p-0047In <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1C</figref>, Participant <b>110</b> is shown to be looking at Display <b>140</b> providing a graphical display of Dance Partner <b>160</b>. Image <b>145</b> may be video capture of Dance Partner <b>160</b> by a video camera located in front of Dance Partner <b>160</b> in Remote Location <b>150</b>. Additionally or alternatively, Image <b>145</b> may be Computer-Generated Image (CGI) based on a profile of Dance Partner <b>160</b> or based on a dance partner profile in case of a virtual dance partner.

p-0048Display <b>140</b> may provide a graphical display similar to a display provided by AR Glasses <b>140</b>.

p-0049In <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1D</figref>, Display <b>140</b> shows both image of the partner <b>145</b> and image <b>142</b> representing the Participant <b>110</b>. Participant's image may be video captured by a video camera located substantially behind Participant <b>110</b>.

p-0050In some exemplary embodiments, a first video camera may be located substantially behind Participant <b>110</b> in order to capture an image of the back side of Participant <b>110</b>. A second video camera may be located substantially in front of Participant <b>110</b> in order to capture an image of his front side. The back side image may be used by Display <b>140</b>, while the front side may be used by a corresponding display used in Remote Location <b>150</b> to provide a graphical display to Dance Partner <b>160</b>.

p-0051In some exemplary embodiments, Motion Sensing Input Device <b>130</b> may comprise the second video camera and/or the first video camera.

p-0052<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1E</figref> exemplifies that Image <b>142</b>′ and/or Image <b>145</b>′ may be Computer Generated avatars, which may be generated and rendered based on the participants' physical characteristics, movements, or the like. In some exemplary embodiments, the avatar may be of higher or shorter height than the person. In some exemplary embodiments, the avatar's limbs may or may not be proportionate to the size of the person's limbs. In some exemplary embodiments, the avatar may or may not be a humanoid avatar. In some exemplary embodiments, each user, such as Participant <b>110</b>, may define his own avatar, and may modify its characteristics such as skin color, eye color, hair, nose, mouth, facial hair, cloths, texture, or the like.

p-0053Referring now to <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1F</figref> showing illustrations of a computerized environment, in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

p-0054Tactile Feedback Actuator <b>120</b>′, <b>170</b>′ may be body-worn gloves capable of supplying tactile feedback to a user's hand. The body-worn gloves, such as disclosed in www.vrlogic.com/html/immersion/cybergrasp.html and in www.vrlogic.com/html/immersion/cyberforce.html, both are hereby incorporated by reference. Tactile Feedback Actuator <b>120</b>′ may comprise a lever for applying seemingly external force on the hand of the user, such as reflecting a dance partner's movements in social dances that involve hand-to-hand contact.

p-0055Referring now to <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> shows a schematic illustration of a body-worn device, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter

p-0056Device <b>200</b> may function as Tactile Feedback Actuator <b>120</b> and/or a body-worn Motion Sensing Input Device. Device <b>200</b> may comprise Belt <b>210</b> to be worn by a user around his waist, torso, or the like.

p-0057Chest Tactile Supplier <b>220</b> may be comprised of a moveable plate which may be moved by one or more extendable levers. Chest Tactile Supplier <b>220</b> may be positioned on or about the user's chest. The plate may be extended towards the chest, thereby supplying tactile feedback to the user's chest of a chest-to-chest contact.

p-0058Back Tactile Supplier <b>230</b> may be shaped as a human hand and may be positioned substantially in parallel to Chest Tactile Suppler <b>220</b>. Back Tactile Supplier <b>230</b> may be positioned on or about the user's back. Back Tactile Supplier <b>230</b> may be configured to press against the user's back, thereby providing tactile feedback of a hand-to-back contact.

p-0059In some exemplary embodiments, Device <b>200</b> may comprise Support <b>240</b>, such as <b>122</b> of <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1B</figref>. Support <b>240</b> may be positioned in a leading end of rod <b>245</b>, which may or may not be extendable. Support <b>240</b> may be positioned in a distance and direction from Belt <b>210</b> corresponding to a user's hand resting point behind a dance partner's back. In some exemplary embodiments, Support <b>240</b> may comprise sensors capable of sensing a force applied by user's hand. In some exemplary embodiments, by applied sufficient force on Support <b>240</b> above a predetermined threshold, rod <b>245</b> may be moved, such as by changing the angle between Belt <b>210</b> and Support <b>240</b>. In some exemplary embodiments, any detection of user's movement may be transmitted using wireless transmitters (not shown) to a dancing logic module (not shown), which may determine response by a dance partner. In some exemplary embodiments, the response may be determined based on AI computation of a virtual partner. Additionally or alternatively, the response may be determined by simulating the user's movement to a real dance partner (e.g. Dance Partner <b>160</b>) and capturing her responses.

p-0060In some exemplary embodiments, pressure applied by a user on Support <b>240</b> may be simulated as a pressure on a corresponding device worn by the remote dance partner supplied by Back Tactile Supplier <b>230</b>.

p-0061Referring now to <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3A</figref> showing a flowchart of steps in a method for performing a social dance with a remote partner, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

p-0062In Step <b>300</b>, movement of the participant may be detected. Detection may be performed using any motion sensing input device, such as but not limited to remote motion sensing input device, body-worn motion sensing input device, or the like. In some exemplary embodiments, a movement registration module may be operatively coupled to the motion sensing input device and configured to analyze sensory information detected by the motion sensing input device. The movement registration module, which may be implemented in software, hardware, combination thereof, or the like, may be configured to analyze the sensory information and identify movements by the participant, such as representing dance related gestures.

p-0063In Step <b>305</b>, movement information may be transmitted to a remote location, such as by a computing platform (e.g., <b>135</b> of <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1A</figref>). In some exemplary embodiments, information may be transmitted to remote location via a computerized network.

p-0064In Step <b>310</b>, video image, of participant, such as captures by a video camera, which may or may not be a part of a remote motion sensing input device, may be transmitted to a remote location.

p-0065Steps <b>320</b>-<b>330</b> may be performed in the remote location.

p-0066In Step <b>320</b>, visual feedback may be provided to dance partner such as using AR devices, a display, or a similar device. The visual feedback may be the video image or based thereon. The visual feedback may or may not include virtual avatars representing the dance partner and/or the participant.

p-0067In Step <b>325</b>, tactile feedback may be supplied to the dance partner, such as by a tactile feedback actuator, which may or may not be body-worn (e.g., <b>120</b> of <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1A</figref>). The tactile feedback may be devised to simulate contact between participant and dance partner. The tactile feedback may be based on movement of the participant and simulate the effect of such movement on the dance partner.

p-0068In Step <b>330</b>, movement by the dance partner may be detected. Step <b>330</b> may be similar to Step <b>300</b>.

p-0069Information gathered in remote location may be transmitted to the local location in which the participant is located.

p-0070In Step <b>335</b>, movement information may be received from the remote location based on the detection of the dance partner's movement.

p-0071In step <b>340</b>, visual feedback may be provided to the participant such as using AR devices, a display, or a similar device. The visual feedback may be a video image of the dance partner or based thereon. The visual feedback may or may not include virtual avatars representing the dance partner and/or the participant. In some exemplary embodiments, the visual feedback may further be based on a video image of the participant.

p-0072In Step <b>345</b>, tactile feedback may be supplied to the participant, for example such as in Step <b>325</b>. The tactile feedback may simulate effects of movements by the dance partner on the participant.

p-0073Steps <b>300</b>-<b>345</b> may be performed repeatedly, during which the participant and his dance partner may respond to each other movements using dance gestures and perform a social dance.

p-0074In some exemplary embodiments, based on a gesture by participant or based on a command inputted by a different manner, such as using keyboard, pointing device, verbally, or the like, the participant may switch to a different dance partner. In some exemplary embodiments, the visual feedback given to the participant may include plurality of other potential dance partners, which may or may not be engaged in dancing with others.

p-0075Referring now to <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3B</figref> showing a flowchart of steps in a method for performing a social dance with a virtual partner, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3B</figref> illustrates a method similar to that of <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3A</figref> but instead of dancing with a remote partner, the participant dances with a virtual partner. In some exemplary embodiments, a participant may alternate and switch between dance partners, and optionally between virtual and remote partners as well.

p-0076In Step <b>307</b>, movement of the virtual partner may be computed, such as by a dancing logic module. The movement may be computed to correspond to the participant movement, as detected in Step <b>200</b>. In some exemplary embodiments, the skill level of the virtual partner may be adjusted to suit that of the participant. In some exemplary embodiments, the movement may be computed based on a given skill and style, such as based on a selection by the participant, automatically adjusted to match the style and skill levels of the participant, or the like.

p-0077In Step <b>309</b>, an image of the virtual partner may be generated.

p-0078In Step <b>341</b>, visual feedback may be provided to the participant. The visual feedback may be based on the generated image. Additionally or alternatively, the visual feedback may be based on a video capture of the participant himself.

p-0079In Step <b>345</b>, tactile feedback may be supplied to the participant. The tactile feedback may be based on the computed movement information.

p-0080Referring now to <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> showing a block diagram of components of a system, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

p-0081In some exemplary embodiments, an Apparatus <b>400</b> may comprise a Processor <b>402</b>. Processor <b>402</b> may be a Central Processing Unit (CPU), a microprocessor, an electronic circuit, an Integrated Circuit (IC) or the like. Processor <b>402</b> may be utilized to perform computations required by Apparatus <b>300</b> or any of it subcomponents. Processor <b>402</b> may be configured to execute computer-programs useful in performing the method of <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3A</figref>, <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3B</figref> or the like

p-0082In some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, an Input/Output (I/O) Module <b>405</b> may be utilized to provide an output to and receive input from a user, such as Participant <b>110</b>. I/O Module <b>405</b> may be operatively coupled to a Tactile Feedback Actuator <b>454</b> used for supplied tactile feedback to the user. I/O Module <b>405</b> may be operatively coupled to a display (not shown), AR device (not shown) or a similar device which may be used for providing visual feedback to the user. Additionally or alternatively, audio feedback and/or music may be played and outputted via an audio output device (not shown), such as enabling the user to listen to the music to which he is dancing, hear the dance partner (either real or remote) talk with him, or the like. I/O Module <b>405</b> may be operatively coupled to a Motion Sensing Input Device <b>456</b> used to monitor movement by the user. I/O Module <b>305</b> may further be used to transmit and receive information to and from Remote Apparatus <b>452</b>, such as located in Remote Location <b>150</b>. Data transmission may be enabled over a computerized network connecting, either wirelessly or in a wired-manner, between Apparatus <b>400</b> and Remote Apparatus <b>452</b>.

p-0083In some exemplary embodiments, Apparatus <b>400</b> may comprise a Memory Unit <b>407</b>. Memory Unit <b>407</b> may be a short-term storage device or long-term storage device. Memory Unit <b>407</b> may be a persistent storage or volatile storage. Memory Unit <b>407</b> may be a disk drive, a Flash disk, a Random Access Memory (RAM), a memory chip, or the like. In some exemplary embodiments, Memory Unit <b>407</b> may retain program code operative to cause Processor <b>402</b> to perform acts associated with any of the subcomponents of Apparatus <b>400</b>. In some exemplary embodiments, Memory Unit <b>407</b> may retain program code operative to cause Processor <b>402</b> to perform acts associated with any of the steps in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3A-3B</figref> above.

p-0084The components detailed below may be implemented as one or more sets of interrelated computer instructions, executed for example by Processor <b>402</b> or by another processor. The components may be arranged as one or more executable files, dynamic libraries, static libraries, methods, functions, services, or the like, programmed in any programming language and under any computing environment.

p-0085Movement Registration Module <b>410</b> may be configured to receive motion sensing information from Motion Sensing Input Device <b>456</b> and monitor user's movement. Movement Registration Module <b>410</b> may identify movement by the user that relate to a social dance activity, such as dance-related gestures.

p-0086Dancing Logic Module <b>420</b> may be configured to determine tactile feedback to be supplied to the user. The tactile feedback may be based on movements of a remote partner (e.g., received from Remote Apparatus <b>452</b>). Additionally or alternatively, the movement may be computed by Dancing Logic Module <b>420</b>, which calculates movements of a virtual partner. In some exemplary embodiments, the movements of the virtual partner may be in response to movements of the user, which were registered by Movement Registration Module <b>410</b>.

p-0087Partner Image Generator <b>425</b> may generate CGI imagery of the dance partner. In some exemplary embodiments, the CGI may be based on a real dance partner, such as by customizing an appearance of a remote partner. Additionally or alternatively, the CGI may be based on a virtual partner. In some exemplary embodiments, the CGI may be generated so as to represent movements of the dance partner, which may be detected in a remote location, determined by Dancing Logic Module <b>420</b>, or the like.

p-0088Participant Image Generator <b>430</b> may generate CGI imagery of the participant. The CGI may be based on a video image of the participant or may be automatically determined based on a detected posture of the participant or the like. The CGI may be generated based on user preferences.

p-0089It will be noted that in some exemplary embodiments, Remote Apparatus <b>452</b> may similarly generate CGI's representing the dance partner and the participant. In some exemplary embodiments, the same CGI may be generated in both apparatuses. Additionally or alternatively, based on user configuration, different CGIs may be generated, such as a participant may see a CGI of the dance partner that appears to be a tall blonde dancer, while the dance partner may see herself as a short man. In some exemplary embodiments, one of the users (e.g., the dance partner or the participant) may see himself or herself as captured in video, while the other user may see a CGI image instead.

p-0090In some exemplary embodiments, the image of a dancer may be selectively shared with only some of remote participants, thereby addressing privacy issues. The dancer may select which remote participants may be authorized to see him as is, and which participants may see him using one or more avatars. In some exemplary embodiments, the dancer may determine groups of remote participants and for each group determine an avatar to be used to represent him to the members of the group. Additionally or alternatively, a group may be determined to be authorized to see the dancer's video image.

p-0091The flowchart and block diagrams in the Figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present invention. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portion of program code, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that, in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the block may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.

p-0092The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

p-0093As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the disclosed subject matter may be embodied as a system, method or computer program product. Accordingly, the disclosed subject matter may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment (including firmware, resident software, micro-code, etc.) or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects that may all generally be referred to herein as a “circuit,” “module” or “system.” Furthermore, the present invention may take the form of a computer program product embodied in any tangible medium of expression having computer-usable program code embodied in the medium.

p-0094Any combination of one or more computer usable or computer readable medium(s) may be utilized. The computer-usable or computer-readable medium may be, for example but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, device, or propagation medium. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of the computer-readable medium would include the following: an electrical connection having one or more wires, a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable compact disc read-only memory (CDROM), an optical storage device, a transmission media such as those supporting the Internet or an intranet, or a magnetic storage device. Note that the computer-usable or computer-readable medium could even be paper or another suitable medium upon which the program is printed, as the program can be electronically captured, via, for instance, optical scanning of the paper or other medium, then compiled, interpreted, or otherwise processed in a suitable manner, if necessary, and then stored in a computer memory. In the context of this document, a computer-usable or computer-readable medium may be any medium that can contain, store, communicate, propagate, or transport the program for use by or in connection with the instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. The computer-usable medium may include a propagated data signal with the computer-usable program code embodied therewith, either in baseband or as part of a carrier wave. The computer usable program code may be transmitted using any appropriate medium, including but not limited to wireless, wireline, optical fiber cable, RF, and the like.

p-0095Computer program code for carrying out operations of the present invention may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including an object oriented programming language such as Java, Smalltalk, C++ or the like and conventional procedural programming languages, such as the “C” programming language or similar programming languages. The program code may execute entirely on the user's computer, partly on the user's computer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on the user's computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer may be connected to the user's computer through any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection may be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service Provider).

p-0096The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of all means or step plus function elements in the claims below are intended to include any structure, material, or act for performing the function in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. The description of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the invention in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. The embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the invention for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.