An Interface for Virtual 3D Sculpting via Physical Proxy

We explore the design space of using direct finger input in conjunction with a deformable physical prop for the creation and manipulation of conceptual 3D geometric models. The user sculpts virtual models by manipulating the space on, into, and around the physical prop, in an extension of the types of manipulations one would perform on traditional modeling media such as clay or foam. The prop acts as a proxy to the virtual model and hence as a frame of reference to the user's fingers. A prototype implementation uses camera-based motion tracking technology to track passive markers on the fingers and prop. The interface supports a variety of clay-like sculpting operations including deforming, smoothing, pasting, and extruding. All operations are performed using the unconstrained fingers, with command input enabled by a small set of finger gestures coupled with on-screen widgets.

Category:

Howto & Style

Tags:

• gestural
• interaction
• clay
• modeling

[OghamTheBold]

Something like a bendable snake - for fast curve input would be good - or a mesh of snakes

I just ordered 25 kg of modelling clay

[art4med]

OK, now do this using 3 webcams or something normal users could afford or build.

Sometimes a "better input device" has to constrain itself, not to University lab equip, but to users' params. Methinks doing the clay model and laser scanning would be easier, but then, I've only been in 3D for 25 years.

[AudioAlias]

zbrush and a wacom tablet gives more control

[visuals88]

STATUE FORUM is LAME!

[brookestephen]

that's the smartest sponge I've ever seen!

programmable sponges.... hmmmm

[nativeops]

crap

[Tallacus]

yeah real clay is better

[tzewkler]

Actually clay is soo much better :P

[ATHODrew]

this is definately real....they use this tech to make animation films. I totally want this crap...because clay is a hastle. Id make some sick 3d skulls with that shit.

[alvibes]

Very cool !