iSphere is an intuitive 3D modeling user interface using the information collected from the user to improve 3D modeling processes. iSphere is an input device for modeling 3D geometries through hand manipulation. This device is equipped with capacitive sensors that can respond the proximity of hand positions to 3D modeling systems. It allows users to manipulate 3D geometries using high-level modeling concepts like push or pull the 3D surfaces. By collecting proximity information between hands and input device, 3D systems are benefited to execute modeling commands proactively.
Making 3D models should be an easy and intuitive task like Free-hand sketching. iSphere is a 24 degree of freedom 3D input device. iSphere is a dodecahedron embedded with 12 capacitive sensors for pulling-out and pressing-in manipulation on 12 control points of 3D geometries. iSphere exhibits the top-down 3D modeling approach for saving mental loads of low-level machineries. Using analog inputs of 3D manipulation, designers are able to have high-level modeling concepts like push or pull the 3D surfaces.
Our experiments show that iSphere saved steps of selecting control points and going through menus and make subjects more focus on what they want to build instead of how they can build. Novices saved significant time for learning 3D manipulation and making conceptual models, but lacking of fidelity is an issue of analog input device.
Play and Build
Traditionally, 3D designers plan and build their concepts in 3D CAD systems. The bottom-up approach limits the diversity of design outcomes during the early design stage. We purpose a top-down 3D modeling approch that allows designers to play and build 3D models and develop their concept directly
