Punch Typing: Alternative Method for Text Entry in Virtual Reality

Abstract

A common way to perform data entry in virtual reality remains using virtual laser pointers to select characters from a flat 2D keyboard in 3-dimensional space. In this demo, we present a data input method that takes advantage of 3D space by interacting with a keyboard with keys arranged in three dimensions. Each hand is covered by a hemisphere of keys based on the QWERTY layout, allowing users to type by moving their hands in a motion similar to punching. Although the goal is to achieve a gesture more akin to tapping, current controllers or hand tracking technology doesn't allow such high fidelity. Thus, the presented interaction using VR controllers is more comparable to punching.