Hand Tracking Mode

With Merge 3D, students are not passive participants - they’re engaged in active, embodied learning. In this article, we’ll share more information about using Hand Tracking mode. 

Step 1. Sign in to the Merge 3D Dashboard

Visit dashboard.merge3D.ai and sign in. 

Step 2. Select any 3D Model or Simulation

Select any 3D object or simulation from Merge EDU content, or your own 3D model from Merge Creator. For this example, I’m selecting a 3D model from Object Viewer. I just tapped “Object Viewer” then selected an object from a collection.

Step 3. Activate Hand Tracking 

Tap the button that says “Hands” in the upper right corner to activate your device's camera for hand tracking mode. Be sure your device’s camera is uncovered. 

Step 4. Select “Settings” and learn how to Interact

It takes a few minutes to get used to interacting with 3D objects using digital hands, but with a bit of practice you’ll be a pro in no time at all! 

Select the “settings” icon on the hand-tracking button to see more options. Here you can do a few things: 

1. Select the size of your digital hand
2. Toggle on low-power mode if your device is low on battery. This setting helps conserve energy.
3. Learn the gestures for controlling your digital hand:
   1. Pinch or grab gesture - these motions allow you to hold on to your digital object. 
   2. Point to specific points of interest on the object
   3. Use both hands - point to the object with one hand at the same time as grabbing it with your other hand
   4. Reset the Object - Two fingers aka “victory” or “peace sign” gesture resets the object back to its original position

Tips and Tricks:

1. When you are holding a digital object in hand tracking mode, you can pull it toward yourself or push it away to bring it closer or further.
2. You can use one hand to hold the object, and the other hand to point to places of interest.
3. If labels get in the way of your exploration, you can simply toggle them off.
4. You can use anaglyph 3D glasses with any of the interaction modes! 

Step 5. Deactivate it When You’re Done Exploring

When you’re done exploring your 3D model or simulation in Hand Tracking mode, simply tap the “Hands” button again to deactivate it.

Now that you know how to use hand tracking, be sure to use it in combination with your Merge Paper Anaglyph 3D glasses!