SPR1NG Controller: An Interface for Kinesthetic Spatial Manipulation

A new interface for kinesthetic spatial manipulation of 3D objects, designed as a controller for game-based applications, VR and training-simulations is presented. The interface combines force feedback with hand and wrist driven motion, and is built around a spring placed between two handles. Its design introduces a new, hands-linked paradigm where the spring embodies the physicality of the virtual or real object to be manipulated. The user of the SPR1NG Controller feels as if he/she is actually holding and manipulating three-dimensional objects, where changes in the shape of the spring are intuitively translated into the motion and physical modification of those objects. An example software application, Shape Fitter, is described to showcase the new interface.