Virtual Trackball on VR Controller: Evaluation of 3D Rotation Methods in Virtual Reality

Abstract

Rotating 3D objects is an essential operation in virtual reality (VR). However, efficient rotation methods with the current VR controllers have not been considered extensively yet. Users must repeatedly move their arms and wrists to rotate an object with the current VR controller. We considered utilizing the trackpad available in most VR controllers as a virtual trackball for an efficient rotation method and implemented two types of virtual trackballs (Arcball and Two-axis Valuator) to enable additional rotation using the thumb while holding an object with a VR controller. In this study, we investigated whether a controller with a virtual trackball would be effective for 3D manipulation tasks. The results showed that participants could perform the tasks faster with Arcball but not faster with Two-axis Valuator than with the regular VR controller. Also, most participants preferred Arcball to Two-axis Valuator and felt Arcball more natural than Two-axis Valuator.