Supporting telepresence by visual and physical cues in distributed 3D collaborative design environments

We present new interaction techniques for supporting telepresence in distributed 3D collaborative design environments. Synchronized turntables enhance physicality in manipulation of virtual 3D objects and provide physical cues for awareness of others. Virtual shadows, visualization of hand movements of remote partners, imply not only location and activities of others but also indicate pointing and gestures toward 3D objects. Aspects of Augmented Reality are employed to maximize spatiality in the 3D workspace. Preliminary studies show that users found the system useful with regard to intuitive manipulation and heightening telepresence by visual and physical cues conveyed via the turntables and shadows. This led to rapid and efficient remote collaboration.