Handy Potter allows anyone to create complicated 3D objects with their hands
Creating 3D objects on a computer is a pain, after all you have to learn how to use a program and then you need to construct the object using your software, keeping all three dimensions in mind. It you want to make something that’s even slightly complex it’s a long process but Handy Potter hopes to change this, making the process of creating 3D objects much simpler.
Using a Kinect as a starting point, Purdue University has developed a system that allows users to create 3D objects simply by moving their hands in front of a sensor. The computer registers the hand movements to create 3D shapes instantly and accurately. It’s perfect for interior design — designers can make pottery, lamps and furniture all by waving their hands in the motion of what they want the outlining shape to look like, the computer fills in the rest.
Handy Potter allows people to create 3D objects 100 times faster than current CAD systems which, on top of taking up time, require training to use. The framework is also easy to set up and is low cost, especially as they’ve used a Kinect camera to keep costs down. Handy Potter also allows users to modify and manipulate 3D objects, not just create.
The system is impressive because it’s easy to use, doesn’t cost much, and allows anyone to create complex shapes with no previous training. Even so, it is currently limited to creating symmetric objects so it’s far from a complete solution. There’s no reason to believe it couldn’t be developed further though, allowing it to create non-symmetrical 3D objects and bringing in other popular features from software in the field.
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