Direct Manipulation and Virtual Environments (Human Computer Interaction)

Introduction

The enthusiastic users report the following positive feelings:

• Mastery of the interface
• Competence in performing tasks
• Ease in learning the system originally and in assimilating advanced features
• Confidence in the capacity to retain mastery over time
• Enjoyment in using the interface
• Eagerness to show off the interface to novices
• Desire to explore more powerful aspects

Examples of Direct-Manipulation Systems

 

• Word Processors
• Spreadsheet
• Spatial Data Management
• Video Games
• Computer Aided Design (CAD)
• Office Automation

3D Interfaces

“Pure” 3D interfaces have strong utility in some contexts, e.g., medical, product design.  In other situations, more constrained interaction may actually be preferable to simplify interactions.

Virtual and Augmented Reality

Virtual reality breaks the physical limitations of space and allow users to act as though they were somewhere else. Augmented reality shows the real world with an overlay of additional overlay. Situational awareness shows information about the real world that surrounds you by tracking your movements in a computer model. Augmented reality is an important variant, Enables users to see the real world with an overlay of additional interaction.

Successful virtual environments depend on the smooth integration of: 

• Visual Display
•  Head position sensing
•  Hand-position sensing
• Force feedback
• Sound input and output
• Other sensations
• Cooperative and competitive virtual reality