Two-dimensionally controlled intuitive tool for point cloud exploration and modeling

摘要

In one embodiment, a flashlight virtual object is provided that has a field of view. Any portions of the representation that fall within the field of view of the flashlight virtual object are highlighted. The position and orientation of the flashlight virtual object is manipulated in three-dimensional (3-D) space using a pointing device that captures motion in two-dimensions, by translation of the flashlight virtual object about one or more of a plurality of user-selectable two-dimensional (2-D) planes, rotation of the flashlight virtual object about one or more of a plurality of user-selectable points, translation of the flashlight virtual object along, or parallel to, one or more of a plurality of user-selectable axis and/or automated movement to a nearest point.

主权项

1. A method comprising:
displaying a representation within a user interface on a display screen of an electronic device, each portion of the representation associated with a position in three-dimensional (3-D) space; imposing, by the electronic device, a flashlight virtual object within the 3-D space of the representation displayed within the user interface on the display screen, the flashlight virtual object having a field of view; determining whether any portions of the representation fall within the field of view of the flashlight virtual object, and, if so, highlighting those portions of the representation that fall within the field of view; receiving a selection of a user-selectable two-dimensional (2-D) plane to which movement of the flashlight virtual object is to be confined, the 2-D plane selected from among a plurality of user-selectable 2-D planes within the 3-D space of the representation; and in response to receiving the selection of the user-selectable 2-D plane, mapping a movement of a pointing device that captures motion in only two-dimensions to a corresponding translation of the flashlight virtual object confined within the selected 2-D plane to change a position of the flashlight virtual object in the 3-D space of the representation.