A Survey of Immersive Systems for Shape Manipulation

Immersive modelling systems have predominantly used non-natural interfaces and devices for shape modification. The new technologies for gesture and speech interaction can provide more familiar interface and reduce the cognitive complexity of current user interfaces of traditional visualization and modelling systems, making it possible manipulating and modifying the shape in a simple and effective manner even by non-expert users. In this paper, we present a survey of existing approaches for immersive shape modelling and manipulation. Current approaches are analyzed according to three characterizing key aspects: input method, supported operations and type of representation of the shape. Finally, the paper briefly introduces our current approach to verify the existence of consistency in hand motions/gestures among different users for 3D modelling tasks in virtual environment, as a first step for the creation of natural interfaces in immersive shape manipulation.