Navigating immersive virtual environments through a foot controller

Abstract

This paper introduces our ongoing work on the Foot Controller Device as an interface for navigation in Immersive Virtual Environments. The Foot Controller is a special, arduino-based control mat equipped with an array of pressure sensors and able to function as a touch surface for feet. What makes it special is that sensor cells can be accessed individually, allowing for a sophisticate control algorithms based on pressure distribution. The low-level software provides a set of recognition features which can be used to implement intuitive navigation metaphors. In this paper we introduce the device and its operating modes, present its use as a navigation interface, and discuss the results of a preliminary pilot user study aimed to evaluate its usability.