Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCI) Based 3D Computer-Aided Design (CAD): To Improve the Efficiency of 3D Modeling for New Users

Abstract

In current HCI interfaces (keyboard, mice, gesture and pen), users must learn a variety of different ways to achieve the same commend in 3D modeling in different softwares (such as Maya, 3D studio Max and Rihno). For instance, to achieve the frequently used commands, such as rotating and zoom in/zoom out, users have to memorize the multiple hotkey (keyboard + mice) or use the graphic icon to perform these actions. Moreover, it would be even more inconvenient if you cross different 3D modeling softwares (Maya and 3D studio Max). The rotation function hotkeys are totally different even if there are designed in the same company (Autodesk). To increase the efficiency of 3D modeling, the CAD users usually need to memorize complicated hotkey combinations for different softwares. Hence, the challenge of this research is to generate a universal, intuitive and natural way to perform the “rotate” and “zoom in/out” command in 3D CAD modeling. Also, this alternative “rotate” and “zoom in/out” input can be widely applied to other 3D CAD softwares. We create a “BCI embedded CAD” prototype that connects EPOC+ to maxscript (3D studio Max). Through the system, the user is able to enhance the ability in 3D modeling through “thinking the commends”. In the future study, the BCI embedded CAD can be modified as a cross-platform 3D CAD manipulation that enables users to use imagination to control 3D modeling in different softwares (Maya, 3D studio Max, and Rihno) rather than traditional text-based commands or graphical icons.