Accelerated viewpoint panning with rotational gain in 360 degree videos

Abstract

In this paper, we present an application of rotational gain to horizontal panning for viewing 360 degree videos. Rotational gain refers to the ratio between the rotation velocity in the virtual (video) space to that of the physical, and it allows the user to rotate one's head less quickly than actually needed (without the user noticing such adjustment to some degree). As such it can bring about convenience, and less physical movement, fatigue and possibly even sickness. We implemented a 360 video panning system with both a constant and dynamic gain, and compared user behavior and subjective usability. Our pilot study showed promising results in that with the proper gain value and control scheme, the user will unknowingly use less physical movement than needed, yet maintain reasonable spatial understanding with higher usability.