Transformable 3D interactive devices for virtual environments

“虚拟环境（VE）的可变形3D交互设备”研究项目建立在以前由C. MacGregor持有的NSERC发现补助金的基础上。该研究的一个重要成果是设计了一种形状变化输入设备（veBall，正在专利审查中），用于在3D空间中工作（例如VEs， 3D建模和设计）。当veBall处于截断球体的形式时，用户可以执行基本的平移运动（例如平移和缩放）。当形状变为一个完整的球体时，用户可以在3D空间中旋转虚拟物体。这种方法提高了任务性能和任务可用性，因为形状的变化允许更自然的握握和物理运动，这与屏幕上发生的事情密切相关。此外，veBall还可以作为输入设备用于双手操作。例如，当设计一个3D模型时，veBall可以被一只手用来旋转模型，而另一只手使用触控笔或鼠标来改变模型中选定组件的颜色。由于触觉反馈已被发现有助于手工任务，我们将探索创造性的解决方案，包括产生触觉反馈的机制（即提供触觉或与虚拟对象的物理接触）。为了将这种反馈包括在形状变化设备中，我们将探讨以下内容：根据任务和形状，我们应该为用户提供稳定的脉冲或一系列振动；这些信号的频率应该是多少？目前最常用的触觉设备的价格从2000美元到84000美元不等。我们的长期目标是开发一套低成本（低于200美元）可转换的交互式设备，可用于促进3D工程和设计活动；并在用于培训的虚拟空间中增强空间意识和导航能力（例如，为急救人员提供搜索和救援场景；培训儿童发展空间技能；以及制定康复方案，帮助个人重新使用双手和上肢）。HQP将有机会在触觉、虚拟现实和3D模拟领域发展高度专业化的技能，以及对基于消费者的产品的设计、开发和评估至关重要的可用性设计技术。

The "Transformable 3D Interactive Devices for Virtual Environments (VE)" research program builds upon the previous NSERC Discovery Grant held by C. MacGregor. A significant outcome of that research was the design of a shape-changing input device (veBall, under patent review) for working in 3D space (e.g. VEs, 3D modelling and design). When veBall is in the form of a truncated sphere, the user can perform basic translation movements (e.g. panning and zooming). When the shape is changed to a full sphere, the user can rotate the virtual object in 3D space. This approach improves task performance and task usability as the change in shape allows for more natural grips and physical movements that map closely to what is happening on a screen. In addition, the veBall can be used for two-handed operation as an input device. For example, when designing a 3D model the veBall can be used by one hand to rotate the model while the other hand uses a stylus or mouse to change the colour of selected components within the model. Since haptic feedback has been found to help in bimanual tasks we will explore creative solutions for including mechanisms for producing haptic feedback (i.e. providing a sense of touch or physical contact with a virtual object). To include this feedback in shape-changing devices, we will explore the following: depending on the task and shape, should we provide the user with a steady pulse or a series of vibrations; and how frequent should these signals be? Currently the most commonly used haptic devices range in cost from $2,000 to over $84,000 CDN. Our long term goal is to develop a set of low-cost (under $200 CDN) transformable interactive devices that can be used to facilitate 3D engineering and design activities; and to enhance spatial awareness and navigation in VEs used for training (e.g. search-and-rescue scenarios for emergency personnel; training children to develop spatial skills; and rehabilitation programs to help individuals regain use of hands and upper limbs). HQP will have opportunities to develop highly specialized skills in the areas of haptics, VEs and 3D simulations, along with usability design techniques important to industry for the design, development, and evaluation of consumer-based products.