NOYO: 6DOF elastic rate control for virtual environments

ABSTRACT

It is an interesting challenge to design input devices that are easy to learn and use and that allow a wide range of differentiated input. We have developed a novel joystick-like handheld input device as a 6DOF elastic rate controller for travel and rate-controlled object manipulation in virtual environments. The NOYO combines a 6DOF elastic force sensor with a 3DOF source-less isotonic orientation tracker. This combination allows consistent mapping of input forces from local device coordinates to absolute world coordinates, effectively making the NOYO a "SpaceMouse to go". The device is designed to allow one-handed as well as two-handed operation, depending on the task and the skill level of the user. A quantitative usability study shows the handheld NOYO to be up to 21% faster, easier to learn, and significantly more efficient than the SpaceMouse desktop device.

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  I. Computing Methodologies
  I.3 COMPUTER GRAPHICS
      I.3.1 Hardware architecture
          Subjects: Input devices

Additional Classification:
  I. Computing Methodologies
  I.3 COMPUTER GRAPHICS
      I.3.7 Three-Dimensional Graphics and Realism
          Subjects: Virtual reality

General Terms:
Design, Human Factors, Performance

Keywords:
elastic force input, input device, travel, virtual environment