Assessing the effects of orientation and device on (constrained) 3D movement techniques

We present two studies to assess which physical factors influence 3D object movement tasks with various input devices. Since past research has shown that a mouse with suitable mapping techniques can serve as a good input device for some 3D object movement tasks, we also evaluate which characteristics of the mouse sustain its success. Our first study evaluates the effect of a supporting surface across orientation of input device movement and display orientation. A 3D tracking device was used in all conditions for consistency. The results of this study are inconclusive; no significant differences were found between the factors examined. The results of a second study show that the mouse outperforms the tracker for speed in all instances. The presence of support also improved accuracy when tracker movement is limited to 2D operation. A 3DOF movement mode performed worst overall.