Visual Indication of Interactive 3D Elements in 3D Virtual Environments

Abstract

In this paper we present the user evaluation results on the indication of interactive three dimensional elements in a virtual environment. The evaluation was conducted with a functional prototype and additional high quality images that were printed on paper sheets. The evaluation indicated that without any visual indication provided in the prototype, participants were not sure which items in the office scene are interactable when they enter to the scene. Also the indication while a user is interacting with the prototype, needs to be distinctive enough. For the visual indication of interactable elements in the virtual environment, participants preferred a glow effect in both circumstances; 1st while they enter to the virtual environment and 2nd while they are interacting with the elements. This information is useful to HCI researchers, 3D UI designers and developers to improve user experiences with virtual environments.

User experiences with web-based 3D virtual travel destination marketing portals

“…Good way for doing this is a pulsating glow effect around the interactive 3D element. Our finding supports and complements the results by (Pakanen et al, 2013a(Pakanen et al, & 2013b. The implemented pulsating glow effect doubled the amount of noticed interactive 3D elements within the portals in the first task in the second user study.…”

First Responders' Localization and Health Monitoring During Rescue Operations

“…research investigates the interaction with a system in a holistic manner, taking into account both hedonic and utilitarian aspects related to the use of the technology [22].…”

Virtual Library

“…The user can indicate an object of interest through pointing and confirming a selection with the controller button. Interactive objects are indicated with a turquoise glow [12,13] as well as controller vibration when pointed at. The user can also pick up certain objects by reaching and pressing a dedicated button.…”