Two pointer input for 3D interaction

Abstract

We explore a range of techniques that use two hands to control two independent cursors to perform operations in 3D desktop applications. Based on research results in 2D applications, we believe that two-handed input provides the potential for creating more efficient and more fluid interfaces, especially for tasks that are context-sensitive or that have many degrees of freedom. These tasks appear frequently in 3D applications and are commonly broken down into a series of sequential operations, each controlling fewer degrees of freedom – even though this may dramatically change the character of the task. However, two-handed interaction, in theory, makes it possible to perform the same tasks using half the number of sequential steps since two previously sequential operations can be performed simultaneously. In addition, many forms of two-handed interaction may be simpler to use and to understand since they correspond to common interactions in the physicat world. It is significant when tasks that need to be broken down into two sequential single-cursor steps, can be performed as a single fluid operation using two cursors. CR Categories and Subjeet Descriptors: 1.3.6 [Computer Graphics]: Methodology and Techniques Interaction Techniques; 1.3.1 [Computer Graphics]: Hardware Architecture Input Devices. Additional