DOCTORAATSPROEFSCHRIFT - EDM - UHasselt

iv Abstract
tion mechanism, much more lively virtual worlds can be achieved with minimal
effort, which can result in better virtual experiences and higher levels of presence
if used properly.
As more natural interaction techniques can increase the user’s feeling of
being immersed in the virtual world, we analyze how our dynamic interaction
and animation system can be utilized to create more realistic user embodiment
control and interaction techniques. Therefore, we propose two new 3D
interaction techniques, utilizing our framework. The first technique allows
the user to interact directly in the virtual world by controlling his virtual
hand with a 3D input device. We elaborate on how this was established and
how this technique can be distributed among the participants with as little
bandwidth consumption as possible. The second technique involves a travel
technique that provides the user with haptic feedback on what is happening to
his virtual counterpart. This was realized by converting rigid body simulation
information into force feedback. By means of a formal usability study, we show
how this haptic travel method results in an increased feeling of immersion.