Geometric Modeling Using Six Degrees of Freedom Input Devices

A highly interactive 3D modeling system (JDCAD) is presented in this paper. The motivation behind the project is to explore the use of input devices with many degrees of freedom to assist 3D geometric modeling. Several design issues are discussed in light of ergonomic consideration, ease of use, proper visual feedback, etc. New 3D interaction techniques based on the bat are introduced. They include general purpose techniques (such as navigation, 3D menus, object selection techniques, dials) and application specific techniques (such as modeling operations and interrogation methods) . Preliminary results are encouraging. To model a mechanical component of moderate complexity, it usually takes about 1/10 of the time required by traditional systems. 1 Introduction Three dimensional geometric modeling has been a challenging topic for computer graphics and computer-aided design [12]. Although many systems have been developed to facilitate 3D geometric modeling, few have penetrated into the ..