Building blocks: A novel metaphor for solving 3D puzzles

This paper presents our team´s design and implementation of an innovative solution to solve the challenge proposed by the 3DUI Contest, which consisted of creating a 3DUI to solve simple 3D puzzles. Rather than using a direct manipulation technique to handle placement of the puzzle pieces, such as the virtual hand, we designed an innovative technique based on build. We aimed to provide a fun and intuitive way to solve puzzles that is not possible in the physical world. Rather than having to focus on specific pieces one at a time, users instead build pieces from individual building blocks, allowing them to focus on the structure of the puzzle space. The results of a user study showed that this system provides a fun and engaging experience for both novices and experts. We believe that performance was determined primarily by experience with games and 3D puzzles rather than by 3DUI design.