Google Patent | Volumetric Multi-Selection Interface for Selecting Multiple Objects in 3d Space

Patent: Volumetric Multi-Selection Interface for Selecting Multiple Objects in 3d Space

Publication Number: 20190012060

Publication Date: 2019-01-10

Applicants: Google

Abstract

Systems and methods for a volumetric multi-selection interface for selecting multiple entities in three-dimensional (3D) space are provided. An example method includes generating a selection region within a three-dimensional space and receiving a selection path user input to define a selection path. The method also includes defining a selection volume based on the selection region and the selection path and selecting entities within the 3D space based on the selection volume. In some implementations, an alter selection region user input is received while the selection path is being defined. The size or shape of the selection region may be altered in response thereto.

Background

Virtual reality (VR) fundamentally adds a third dimension of interaction, which has implications for selecting multiple items with a singular gesture. Techniques that are applicable in two-dimensional (2D) interfaces may not be appropriate for three-dimensional (3D) interfaces. In some 2D interfaces, the user defines a region in terms of both dimensions (i.e., a horizontal dimension and a vertical dimension). Applying this same approach in 3D may cause issues due to, for example, occlusion and ambiguity discerning which items should be included in the selection region. Using this approach in 3D, the selection region becomes a symmetric, rectangular selection volume defined by a length in all three dimensions. This type of selection interface does not allow users to create arbitrarily shaped selections.

Summary

This document relates, generally, to volumetric selection of multiple entities in 3D space. In some implementations, a 3D virtual reality environment includes an interface for volumetric selection of multiple entities.

One aspect is a computer-implemented method includes generating a selection region within a three-dimensional (3D) space and receiving a selection path user input to define a selection path. The method also includes defining a selection volume based on the selection region and the selection path and selecting entities within the 3D space based on the selection volume.

Another aspect is a computing device including at least one processor and memory storing instructions. When executed by the at least one processor, the instructions cause the computing device to generate a selection polygon within a 3D space and receive a selection path user input to define a selection path. The instructions also cause the computing device to define a selection volume based on the selection polygon and the selection path and select entities within the 3D space based on the selection volume.

Yet another aspect is a computer-implemented method including generating a selection polygon within a 3D space and receiving a first selection path user input to define a first portion of a selection path. The method also includes receiving an alter selection polygon user input and, responsive to receiving the alter selection polygon user input, altering the selection polygon. The method also includes receiving a second selection path user input to define a second portion of the selection path. Additionally, the method includes defining a selection volume based on the selection polygon and the selection path and selecting entities within the 3D space based on the selection volume.