Multiple display and tangible interface extensions to AmiraVR

UI description from ZIB 2002 yearly report (Jahresberichte)

In cooperation with Ed Seidel, Max-Planck-Institut for Gravitationsphysik,
Albert Einstein Institute (AEI), Potsdam/Golm

(auf Deutsche)

The combination of the AmiraVR visualization environment with large-format
stereo displays addresses several important 3D visualization challenges, including
semi-immersive stereo viewing and multi-user interaction. However, these systems
pose significant design challenges for how the visual environment is to be configured
and controlled. We are developing several new approaches for making simpler, more
effective use of the AmiraVR visualization environment based on multiple-display
and tangible interface techniques. These approaches are illustrated in Figures 1 and 2.

One path pushes the representation and control of menus, parameters, and other
key interface elements onto 2D display tablets and PDAs (Figure 1).
Modified interface elements are displayed with animated 3D graphics on the
shared projection surface. The second approach develops a "tangible interface"
for expressing and controlling visualizations through the manipulation of
special physical objects. These objects serve as both representations and controls
for digital parameters, data sets, computing resources, and other digital content
(Figure 2). This approach offers benefits including simplified interaction;
enhanced manipulation of digital parameters; ease of reference and authentication
to grid computing resources; and ease of migration between desktop and
projection environments.

These interfaces are being developed in conjunction with the visualization and
mobile devices efforts of the GridLab project. Toward this, we are collaborating
with astrophysicist end-users in the Albert Einstein Institute, who are interested
in using these interfaces in their everday research environment.