Dissertation defence (Computer Science): FM Taneli Nyyssönen
FM Taneli Nyyssönen defends the dissertation in Computer Science titled “The Paradox of Realism: Designing Virtual Reality Mechanics for Natural User Interfaces” at the University of Turku on 28 May 2025 at 12.00 (University of Turku, Agora, XXII lecture hall, Turku).
Opponent: Associate Professor Yiyu Cai (Nanyang Technological University, Singapore)
Custos: Docent Jouni Smed (University of Turku)
Doctoral Dissertation at UTUPub: https://urn.fi/URN:ISBN:978-952-02-0222-4
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Summary of the Doctoral Dissertation:
This doctoral dissertation discusses the utilization of natural user interfaces in the design of virtual reality interaction mechanics. In the context of this thesis, natural user interfaces refer to using our body parts or functionality as interaction mechanics. The idea was to design mechanics that are both easy to use and immersive (realistic).
The thesis is formed out of research outlined in five scientific articles, each exploring different natural interaction mechanics. One of the mechanics is simulating real-world activities, such as swimming and climbing, with virtual reality controllers. Another mechanic relates to hand-tracking and gesture user interfaces with one- and two-handed gestures. Additionally, eye-tracking and pulse are explored as control mechanics.
The results show that a one-size-fits-all approach is not viable for natural virtual reality user interface design. This is because the differences in people require the mechanics to be adjustable to each persons needs. The research highlights many such differences, such as hand size/shape, hand dexterity, and eye dominance.
The impact of the research consists of potentially helping virtual reality designers to create better interaction that is easier and more enjoyable to use.
Opponent: Associate Professor Yiyu Cai (Nanyang Technological University, Singapore)
Custos: Docent Jouni Smed (University of Turku)
Doctoral Dissertation at UTUPub: https://urn.fi/URN:ISBN:978-952-02-0222-4
***
Summary of the Doctoral Dissertation:
This doctoral dissertation discusses the utilization of natural user interfaces in the design of virtual reality interaction mechanics. In the context of this thesis, natural user interfaces refer to using our body parts or functionality as interaction mechanics. The idea was to design mechanics that are both easy to use and immersive (realistic).
The thesis is formed out of research outlined in five scientific articles, each exploring different natural interaction mechanics. One of the mechanics is simulating real-world activities, such as swimming and climbing, with virtual reality controllers. Another mechanic relates to hand-tracking and gesture user interfaces with one- and two-handed gestures. Additionally, eye-tracking and pulse are explored as control mechanics.
The results show that a one-size-fits-all approach is not viable for natural virtual reality user interface design. This is because the differences in people require the mechanics to be adjustable to each persons needs. The research highlights many such differences, such as hand size/shape, hand dexterity, and eye dominance.
The impact of the research consists of potentially helping virtual reality designers to create better interaction that is easier and more enjoyable to use.
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