Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the introduction of Reality Proxy, a technology that enhances mixed reality (XR) interactions by allowing users to manipulate real-world objects through digital proxies, thereby overcoming limitations of traditional XR devices [11][12][14]. Group 1: Technology Overview - Reality Proxy enables seamless interaction with real-world objects by creating abstract digital representations of them, allowing users to select and manipulate these proxies instead of the physical objects directly [9][12]. - The technology aims to improve user experience by addressing challenges such as small object sizes, unstable line of sight, and hand tremors that often hinder traditional XR interactions [11][14]. - The process involves three main steps: activating the proxy, generating the proxy while retaining spatial relationships, and interacting with the proxy while maintaining focus on the real-world object [15][16][21]. Group 2: Interaction Features - Users can browse object previews by sliding their fingers over multiple proxies, select multiple objects by defining an area with hand gestures, and filter objects by attributes [27][28][29]. - The system supports intuitive interactions by utilizing physical surfaces as touchpads, allowing users to perform familiar gestures to select and manipulate objects [30]. - Additional features include semantic grouping, spatial scaling, and custom grouping, enhancing the flexibility of user interactions with real-world objects [32][35][37]. Group 3: Practical Applications - Reality Proxy can be applied in various scenarios, such as quickly locating specific books in an office, interacting with kitchen appliances, and navigating large buildings efficiently [38][40][42]. - The technology also facilitates the control of dynamic real-world objects, exemplified by a mixed reality application for drone control [44][45]. Group 4: User Feedback and Evaluation - The evaluation of Reality Proxy indicated positive feedback regarding its practicality, ease of learning, and usability, particularly in addressing interaction challenges with distant or hard-to-reach objects [48][50]. - Participants noted that the system is faster than traditional methods, reduces physical fatigue, and is more accommodating for users with mobility or visual stability issues [51]. - Some concerns were raised about the learning curve for new users and the need for improved accuracy in proxy positioning [52].

Core Insights - Ohio University, HTC VIVE, and Virtualware have partnered to launch the Digital Enterprise Collaboratory (DEC) to support advanced manufacturing in Ohio [1][2] - The DEC will enhance Ohio University's engineering education and workforce development through real-time collaboration using XR technologies [2][4] - The program aims to address the demand for new factory workers and prepare the local workforce for advanced manufacturing jobs [3][4] Partnership Details - The collaboration combines Ohio University's engineering expertise, HTC VIVE's XR technologies, and Virtualware's VIROO platform [2] - The DEC will facilitate product development and research by connecting university, industry, government, and Department of Air Force Research Laboratories members [2][4] Infrastructure and Facilities - The DEC will consist of two laboratories located at Ohio University's Athens Campus and the OHIO facility in Dayton [5] - These labs will be equipped with virtual reality tools and connected through the VIROO platform, enabling real-time collaboration and project sharing [5] Workforce Development - The initiative is expected to help meet the estimated demand for 7,000 new workers in advanced technology factories being established by companies like Intel and Anduril [4][5] - Ohio University will expand its existing manufacturing training and certification programs to support this workforce demand [3] Event and Launch - The DEC will officially open on May 5 at the Athens Campus and on May 7 in Dayton, coinciding with the Dayton Digital Transformation Summit [6]