The ever-growing use of 3D graphics and the possibility of realtime interaction poses a need for methods which support manipulation tasks of 3D objects within the 3D virtual environments. The same applies to the current field of research on 3D lenses in virtual 3D city [26] which require proper interaction metaphors for virtual lenses. Therefore, a novel 3D interaction widget is introduced as a simple and direct manipulation controller which supports interaction tasks performed by novel and experienced users. 

The concept of combining mode selection and mode interaction onto a movable 3D widget results from tradeoffs experienced with traditional context menus. Currently, the movable menu consists of a trackball widget which is surrounded by a circular mode selection area. Obvious benefits are the reduced amount of mouse traveling necessary during tool selection as well as the simplification of repetitive actions. Moreover, the visual feedback provided by the proxy-like behaviorof the interaction widget minimizes task errors while increasing the comfort of lens manipulation.

In relation to the current object in control and the actual task to be performed, the menu provides either free or constrained interaction. Furthermore, the trackball metaphor supports intuitive 3 DOF input using a 2 DOF input device. In contrast to widely used user interfaces, the interaction widget is placed close to the point-of-interest and is able to track the input device during scene exploration.

 

(WS 2008)

This is a group project with the Computer Graphics Systems Lab at Hasso Plattner Institute.

• A Metaphor for 2D and 3D Lens Interaction (Full Paper - .pdf)
• Presentation Slides (.pdf)