Easy-to-use virtual brick manipulation techniques using hand gestures

Abstract

Nowadays, LEGO may be regarded as the best toys that ever existed. It not only appeals to people of all ages, but also encourages creativity and innovation. The popularity of LEGO entails the introduction of a range of computer applications that simulate this toy. However, assembling by mouse and keyboard is not more interesting than playing a real LEGO toy. Recently, with the development of interactive virtual reality technology, many novel acquisition devices like Leap Motion and Kinect have been introduced which allow the user to control the device without touching the keyboard, the mouse, or the screen. In this paper, we present a VR application that simulates a real LEGO toy, and players can interact with this application via Leap Motion device. In other words, the player can use both hands to control the in-game objects including LEGO bricks, game camera, and even GUI. Also, we propose a set of gestures which enable the user to perform and memorize easily.