Pull-the-strings

Abstract

Pull-the-Strings presents a mapping model for digital puppetry based on a transparent framework to support generic device controllers and generic tools. Digital puppetry requires a creative interaction design, in particular in the way designers map the puppet to the puppeteer using specific devices. This process depends on a constantly changing interface technology, which limits the reuse of devices and mappings. This paper proposes a methodology and a set of tools that facilitate the mapping process, and promote the recycling of technologies. A flexible and generic environment independent from device specifications. By abstracting the hardware layer, the artist is motivated to think in terms of signal flow, establishing relations through meaningful mappings instead of handling the diverse specifications of each device and application. Pull-the-Strings is a data-flow ecosystem that focus on the functional usage of control signals. It provides a scalable environment for building semantic blocks that connect, transform and generate signals for the manipulation of virtual objects. Its goal is to make technology as transparent as possible, facilitating connections and reducing the obstacles between the performer and the performing object. On the other hand, it proposes an interaction design space that takes into account the manipulation and perception distance, responding to the specifications of the digital puppetry medium. This model was evaluated comparing a set of tools and methods with experienced and non-experienced users.