Try the first demo build:
http://www.aestheticinteractive.com/clients/hoverboard/HoverboardDemo-2015-03-13.zip
This build includes a "LeapVR" mode, and “LeapOnly” modes for both table and head mounts. I’m finding that the table-mounted mode of this demo works surprisingly well. And, just like with the Hovercast demo, I have “cheated” the ideal Hovercast orientation downward (palm towards your chest) to help with the table-mounted tracking.
I should note that this tool can be useful for far more than just text keyboards. It can handle any scenario which needs grids/rows of buttons, and these can be placed on any number of 3D planes. Those 3D planes can be positioned relative to the camera, world, etc. For example, a developer could use Hoverboards to create interfaces similar to the ones in Soundscape VR.
Below, I've collected and organized some feedback from the Leap Motion team (and elsewhere). Thanks everyone! Please feel free to add to this list if you have more thoughts or ideas.
Input
- An new input module that uses Leap Motion's "tool" support (i.e. tapping keys with a pencil).
- Listen for (and display) input from an actual keyboard (in real space). Gives users the option to break VR immersion and type very quickly with their computer's keyboard.
- One-finger mode with hover delay is too slow. Two-finger mode with the faster hover delay is better, but it's easier to make errors. Finding the right balance...
Features
- Complete the keyboard functionality: "shift" button toggle, punctuation, symbols, etc.
- Bug: the "1" key doesn't work.
- Bug: the demo app crashed a couple times, randomly (not necessarily Hoverboard-related)
- Implement a "Swype" mode.
- Implement predictive results.
- Scrap the whole thing in favor of voice input
Demo-Specific
- Have the "Backspace" key trigger repeatedly when held down.
- Join the combined-mode keyboard's spacebar (currently, it just places the two split-mode keyboard panels next to each other).
- Apply transparency to the hand models, so the buttons are more visible.
- Scroll the text field to the left once it fills up, so the cursor and latest letters are visible.
- Create 3D letters for the entire string upon hitting "enter" button.
- Add commands (like "twirl") that affect the demo environment when entered.
