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Around-Body Interaction: Interacting While on the Go

Florian Müller, Sebastian Günther, Max Mühlhauser
IEEE Pervasive 2020
IEEE Pervasive Computing
DOI
TL;DR
What we did: We designed a conceptual framework for around-body interaction techniques using the natural skills and dexterity of our limbs.
What we found: We demonstrate that integrating lower limb movements can enhance fast, accurate, and enjoyable interactions with Head-Mounted Displays.
Takeaway: Our research highlights the potential for improved user experiences in Extended Reality by leveraging the body's natural capabilities for interaction.

Abstract

We provide a concise overview on how the skills and dexterity of our upper and lower limbs, acquired and trained in interacting with the physical world, can be transferred to the interaction with HMD. We present the vision of around-body interaction, in which we use the space around our body, defined by the reach of our limbs, for fast, accurate, and enjoyable interactions. In the remainder of this article, we first introduce a design space for such around-body interactions and, second, present two examples of such interaction techniques, which use the degrees of freedom of the lower limbs for on-the go interactions. Finally, we conclude with future research challenges.