Direct manipulation techniques for 3D objects using 2D locator devices

Three dimensional input techniques have long remained a problem in computer graphics because of the two dimensional nature of our display and interaction media. The most successful approaches to date are based upon specialized input hardware ranging from special rooms in which three dimensional manipulations can be performed [Suth 681 to simple multiaxis joysticks with an additional joint to support an additional degree of freedom [Brit 781. As well as a host of others.