Using handheld user interface and direct manipulation for architectural modeling in immersive virtual reality: An exploratory study

Abstract

This study comparatively investigates the affordances and constraints of two modeling methods for three‐dimensional modeling in immersive virtual reality (IVR): handheld user interface (HUI) and direct manipulation modeling (DM). The experimental study was conducted with 20 graduate students and two domain experts. Data were collected with screen capture videos of the modeling screen and video recordings of the users' gestures during the modeling session. To triangulate the findings for better reliability, an open‐ended questionnaire was administered just after the modeling session to collect written data about the modeling experience and the investigated modeling methods. Collected data were analyzed by qualitative coding methods. Analyses focused on affordances and constraints of modeling techniques, user preferences about virtual environments, effects of instant scale feature during modeling, locomotion techniques in IVR, ergonomics of the hardware related to modeling tasks, and usability of modeling interfaces in IVR. The results showed that DM modeling could be supported by (i) numeric input via a novel type of keyboard, (ii) a convenient HUI's menu interface with menu hierarchy wherever needed, and (iii) better locomotion techniques. This study generated suggestions for ensuring that efficient modeling applications for design studios, computer aided design courses, and professional practices in IVR can be implemented by investigating affordances and constraints.

Optimization of Three-Dimensional Model of Landscape Space Based on Big Data Analysis

“…They collected data through the screen capture video of the modeling screen and the video recording of user gestures during the modeling session. Through the analysis of qualitative coding method, they believed that DM modeling can be digitally input through a new keyboard [9,10]. In their research, Li et al used real-time computer graphics technology, three-dimensional modeling technology and binocular stereo vision technology to study multivision animated character objects in virtual reality technology, designed binocular stereo vision animation system and 3D graphics algorithm for three-dimensional geometric transformation of computer graphics, and studied image output processes such as basic texture technology and basic lighting model used in fragment processing stage [11].…”

Immersive virtual reality in AECO/FM to enhance education: Systematic literature review and future directions

“…Hence, the level of realism in any use-case can be determined in accordance with the task to be performed or the subject to be taught. Another finding is that there is a negative relationship between the scale of the relevant virtual object (1:1 scale) and usability or task performance [114,117]. One explanation can be that if the virtual object's scale is too large for the user to see holistically, which is the main element of the relevant task, it may cause disorientation.…”

“…In AECO/FM education, there is general agreement on the validity of this characteristic to perform various design and operational tasks that can be implemented in the real environment for various use cases [17,44,60]. Tastan et al [117] showed that 1:1 scale negatively influenced 3D-modeling tasks compared to modeling at smaller scales. Sun et al [114] showed that the 1:1 scale is negatively correlated with learning performance compared with smaller scales.…”

“…Some proposed IVR systems [6,126,136] demonstrated the ability of construction workers to transition from physical task performers to machine supervisors, laying the groundwork for future construction projects. Some studies investigated whether basic geometric forms can be created through 2D drawings and 3D modeling in IVR applications [39,90,92,114,117]. Some studies presented novel frameworks for performing BIM-IVR integration efficiently.…”

“…These novel frameworks were presented only in training in building healthy/safety, training for operational tasks, and fire/ safety/access assessment. Furthermore, despite the short duration of the experiments in some studies [9,16,44,49,52,65,117], IVR barriers such as nausea, motion sickness, dizziness, and fatigue emerged.…”