Transformable 3D interactive devices for virtual environments

“虚拟环境（VE）的可变形三维交互设备”研究计划建立在以前的NSERC发现基金由C。麦格雷戈该研究的一个重要成果是设计了一种形状变化的输入设备（veBall，正在专利审查中），用于在3D空间中工作（例如VE，3D建模和设计）。当veBall为截顶球体时，用户可以执行基本的平移运动（例如平移和缩放）。当形状改变为全球体时，用户可以在3D空间中旋转虚拟对象。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抓握和物理运动，这些运动与屏幕上发生的事情密切相关。此外，veBall还可作为输入设备用于双手操作。 例如，在设计3D模型时，一只手可以使用veBall旋转模型，而另一只手可以使用手写笔或鼠标来更改模型中选定组件的颜色。由于触觉反馈已被发现有助于双手任务，我们将探索创造性的解决方案，包括产生触觉反馈的机制（即提供触摸或物理接触的感觉与虚拟对象）。为了将这种反馈纳入形状改变设备，我们将探讨以下问题：根据任务和形状，我们应该为用户提供稳定的脉冲还是一系列振动;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2,000美元到超过84,000美元CDN不等。我们的长期目标是开发一套低成本的（低于200加元）可转换的交互式设备，可用于促进3D工程和设计活动;并增强用于培训的虚拟环境中的空间意识和导航（例如，为急救人员提供搜索和救援方案;训练儿童发展空间技能;以及帮助个人重新使用手和上肢的康复方案）。HQP将有机会发展触觉、虚拟环境和3D模拟领域的高度专业化技能，沿着对行业重要的可用性设计技术，用于设计、开发和评估基于消费者的产品。

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.