a comparison of different input devices for a 3d environment
Motivation -- To identify a suitable interaction modality -among the ones currently implemented in a three-dimensional (3D) environment for Air Traffic Control- for allowing interactive exploration of and gathering information about 3D weather structures. Research approach -- A usability study entailing four interaction modalities (also called 'interaction interfaces'): voice, wand, pen and sketch interfaces, across a task requiring 3D surface exploration, information gathering and recall of information. Quantitative data (time, errors and a composite performance index) as well as qualitative data were collected. Findings/Design -- Overall, the results indicate that the wand supported a better performance when compared to the other interaction interfaces. Among the four interaction interfaces, the voice interface seems to present additional limitations, mostly related to time lag in the voice recognition, that were judged as a source of frustration. Originality/Value -- The present work provides empirical results deriving from a comparative usability study of four interaction interfaces; it contributes to the study of interaction in 3D environments with new empirical data.
3d environments interaction evaluation