User Performance in Relation to 3D Input Device Design

Abstract

Based mainly on a series of studies the author conducted at the University of Toronto, this article reviews the usability of various six degrees of freedom (6 DOF) input devices for 3D user interface. The following issue are covered in the article: the multiples aspects of input device usability (performance measures), mouse base 6 DOF interaction, free-moving isotonic 6 DOF devices, armature-base 6 DOF devices, position vs. rate control and the form factors of 6 DOF control handle. These issues are threated at an introductory and practical level, with pointers to more technical and theoritical references.