Article Information
Steps Via Fingers: A New Navigation Technique for 3D Virtual Environments

Keywords: Navigation, Step via Fingers, Physical Movement-Based Technique, 3D Interaction

Mehran University Research Journal of Engineering & Technology

Volume 29 ,  Issue 4

MUHAMMAD  RAEES,SEHAT ULLAH  ,IHSAN  RABBI

Abstract

This paper introduces a novel navigation technique, SVF (Steps Via Fingers) for 3D (Three-Dimensional) VEs (Virtual Environments). The approach uses two fingers (index & middle) to mimic walking by feet. The 3D VR (Virtual Reality) system designed for SVF makes use of two fiducial markers; fasten with fingers in the form of rings. When a back and forth motion of fingers is traced by the camera, one step navigation is performed. The technique is identical to normal walking and quicker the motion of fingers the faster will be the navigation. To make left or right turn, marker of the respective side is made hidden from the camera by folding the finger. Six students evaluated this new traveling metaphor by performing eight different experimental trials in the same VE. The results obtained are encouraging in terms of cost, task completion time, and accuracy