VR user interface: closed world interaction

In this paper, we describe a user interface technique that uses a bounding box as a m taphor to facilitate interaction in a Virtual Reality (VR) environment. Because this technique is based on the observation that some of the VR application fields are contained in a closed world, we call it Closed World Interaction (CWI). After the user defines a closed world, the necessar virtual buttons are shown around the closed world which is presented by a frame. These virtual buttons are then used to interact with models. We also integrate some of the 2D Windows, Icons, Mouse and Pointer (WIMP) metaphors into CWI technique, reflecting our belief that users will be able to adapt to this environment quickly, A series of user studies were conducted to investigate the effectiveness of this technique. The results indicate that users can define a closed world quickly. Experience appears to be an important factor, and users can be trained to become familiar with CWI in the VR environment. The constrained interactions can also enhance the accuracy of selection. Two-handed manipulation somewhat improves the speed.

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