A tablet-based 3D interaction tool for virtual engineering environments.

Three-dimensional computer-aided design (3D CAD) modeling and reviewing is one of the most common engineering project tools. Interaction in these environments is characterized by the need for a high precision level to execute specific tasks. Generally this kind of task uses specific interaction devices with 4 or more degrees of freedom, such as 3D mice. Currently applications involving 3D interaction use interaction devices for object modeling or for the implementation of navigation, selection and manipulation techniques in a virtual environment. A related problem is the need to control naturally non-immersive tasks, such as symbolic input (e.g., text, photos). In addition, the steep learning curve to handle such non-conventional devices is a recurring problem. The addition of sensors and the popularization of smart-phones and tablets, allowed the use of such devices in virtual engineering environments. These devices, differs to other devices by the possibility of including additional information and performing naturally non-immersive tasks. This work presents a 3D interaction tablet-based tool, which allows the aggregation of all major 3D interaction topics, such as navigation, selection, manipulation, system control and symbolic input. To validate the proposed tool, the SimUEP-Ambsim application was chosen, an oil and gas simulator that has the complexity needed and which allows the use of all techniques implemented. Then, the tool was tested in another application, a photo-voltaic solar plant simulator, in order to evaluate the generality of this work concept.