FishTank sandbox: A software framework for collaborative usability testing of fish tank virtual reality interaction techniques

Abstract

Human-computer interaction researchers have been studying how we can interact with virtual objects in a virtual environment efficiently. Many usability experiments do not have the same control parameters. The lack of consistency makes comparing different interaction techniques difficult. In this article, we present a software framework for usability study in FTVR interaction techniques. The software framework provides fixed control parameters (e.g., task, graphic settings, and measuring parameters), the ability for other researchers to incorporate their interaction techniques as an add-on, and enabling individuals to participate in the experiment over the internet. The article explores a new way for VR/AR researchers to approach usability experiments using the framework and discuss the challenges that it brings.