Facile 3D direct manipulation

ABSTRACT

An experimental 3D interface is described, including rendering acceleration hardware, a 3D mouse, and 3D interaction techniques. A 3D cursor, controlled by the augmented mouse, allows direct manipulation of 3D objects. Objects are selected by placing the tip of the cursor inside. Objects can be moved in 3D, or simultaneously moved and rotated using a technique called “tail-dragging.” A method called “snap-to” helps users align objects. The interface is designed without using explicit modes or commands. Sounds accentuate the interaction. Details of the implementation and informal user observations are described, as well as topics for future work.

REFERENCES

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.5 INFORMATION INTERFACES AND PRESENTATION (I.7)
      H.5.1 Multimedia Information Systems
          Subjects: Audio input/output

Additional Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.5 INFORMATION INTERFACES AND PRESENTATION (I.7)
      H.5.2 User Interfaces (D.2.2, H.1.2, I.3.6)
          Subjects: Interaction styles (e.g., commands, menus, forms, direct manipulation); Input devices and strategies (e.g., mouse, touchscreen)

  I. Computing Methodologies
  I.3 COMPUTER GRAPHICS

General Terms:
Design, Experimentation, Human Factors

Keywords:
audio output, direct manipulation, input devices, interaction, three dimensional graphics