The Institute for Energy Technology in Norway has used the Microsoft Kinect to create a virtual reality interface to explore and interact with virtual equipment. This could be used for instance in training to understand and maintain equipment.
The interaction consists of a Kinect as well as a mouse button used for selecting virtual objects, which allows for a rich interaction repertory and simple interaction. With this setup, the user can manipulate virtual objects to move, rotate and take components apart.
These virtual equipment mock-ups lets users get hands-on experience with the equipment, and allows for practice of assembly and disassembly tasks.
It’s a great example of how the Kinect can be used to create more interesting learning tools that can keep an audience engaged. We’re looking forward to seeing more displays like this.
