Usability Studies In Virtual And Traditional Computer Aided Design Environments For Navigation

Abstract

A usability study was used to measure user performance and user preferences for a CAVE^TM immersive stereoscopic virtual environment with wand interfaces compared directly with a workstation non-stereoscopic traditional CAD interface with keyboard and mouse. In both the CAVE^TM and the adaptable technology environments, crystal eye glasses are used to produce a stereoscopic view. An ascension flock of birds tracking system is used for tracking the user’s head and wand pointing device positions in 3D space.

It is argued that with these immersive technologies, including the use of gestures and hand movements, a more natural interface in immersive virtual environments is possible. Such an interface allows a more rapid and efficient set of actions to recognize geometry, interaction within a spatial environment, the ability to find errors, and navigate through a virtual environment. The wand interface provides a significantly improved means of interaction. This study quantitatively measures the differences in interaction when compared with traditional human computer interfaces.

This paper provides analysis via usability study methods for navigation termed as Benchmark 1. During testing, testers are given some time to “play around” with the CAVE^TM environment for familiarity before undertaking a specific exercise. The testers are then instructed regarding tasks to be completed, and are asked to work quickly without sacrificing accuracy. The research team timed each task, and recorded activity on evaluation sheets for Navigation Test. At the completion of the testing scenario involving navigation, the subject/testers were given a survey document and asked to respond by checking boxes to communicate their subjective opinions.