SHVIL, PLANWELL, & FLYING FRUSTUM: Spatial Interaction With 3D Physical Maps

Abstract

Spatial representations are crucial when people interact with the physical environment. For example, geographic maps are one of the primary sources for way-finding, spatial planning and navigational activities. Recent technological advancements enable the evolution of current 2D interactive spatial representations of the maps to physical 3D interactive representations using techniques such as 3D printing and mixed reality interaction. In this thesis, we undertake the task of designing collaborative spatial interaction techniques for physical representation of maps. We designed interfaces for the following application scenarios: collaborative terrain navigation, petroleum-well planning, and remote unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) control. We present our research, encompassing three prototypes we designed and implemented: Shvil, an augmented reality interface for collaborative terrain navigation; PlanWell, a spatial user interface for collaborative petroleum well planning; and Flying Frustum, a spatial interface for enhancing human-UAV awareness.