3D Modeling Interface with Air Spray: Field Study of 3D Model Making and Prototype Development

This paper presents a novel interface for 3D modeling in augmented reality, aiming at developing a form gradually in the early phase of a product design process. Previous VR/AR based modeling systems have focused largely on geometrical algorithms and system performance issues. From a designers’ perspective, this study analyzed the conventional form creating processes and developed a more intuitive and designer-friendly modeling interface. Based on the understanding of various form-making methods and tools, we suggest the concept of “spray modeling” interface, which adopts a real air spray gun as an input device. It allows the user to create a 3D frame and to spray virtual foam around the frame as in a sculpturing process. It also provides coherent sound and air-force feedback. As a metaphoric approach for novel modeling interface, spray modeling is expected to be widely applied to human computer interaction researches beyond design modeling. Author