Digital Buddhist Image Creation by Haptic Deformation

In this paper, we describe a haptic deformation algorithm used in a virtual storytelling system known as the Digital Buddhist Image Creation System. This system supports not only haptic interaction, but also visual and auditory feedback and the combination of these three modalities provides a user with an immersive experience of a virtual cultural environment. We believe the proposed bi-directional haptic interaction will encourage users to spontaneously participate and engage with the system. To demonstrate and explore this concept, a virtual environment that tells the legend of Korea's 'Unju Temple' has been constructed. The proposed haptic interaction is expected to play an important role in supporting users as they directly experience and learn about this significant piece of cultural heritage in a digital, virtual environment.