Manipulation, Learning, and Recall with Tangible Pen-Like Input

Abstract

We examine two key human performance characteristics of a pen-like tangible input device that executes a different command depending on which corner, edge, or side contacts a surface. The manipulation time when transitioning between contacts is examined using physical mock-ups of three representative device sizes and a baseline pen mock-up. Results show the largest device is fastest overall and minimal differences with a pen for equivalent transitions. Using a hardware prototype able to sense all 26 different contacts, a second experiment evaluates learning and recall. Results show almost all 26 contacts can be learned in a two-hour session with an average of 94% recall after 24 hours. The results provide empirical evidence for the practicality, design, and utility for this type of tangible pen-like input.

A 26-Contact Tangible Pen-Like Input Device for Capacitive Displays

“…[2]), and this short time penalty may even encourage memorization of command mappings. In a formal experiment in our companion paper [1], we show that almost all 26 contacts can be learned in a two-hour session. Participants using our Conté device with the mirror visualization had an average of 94% recall after 24 hours.…”

“…Using a dedicated host to generate events means applications can run on any platform. We demonstrate Conté with an iPad in the accompanying video and we conducted an experiment using a Windows touchscreen laptop in our companion paper [1].…”

Safe Human-Computer Interface Based On Efficient Image Processing Algorithm

“…Indeed, tool-extension tracking [34] has been proven to be more robust than barehand gesture one, since the latter ones present computational challenges such as finger occlusion [35]. On the other hand, the use of a common marker, such as a ball or a bottle, leads to a more affordable and accessible HCI solution than expensive dedicated pen-like technologies as presented in [36]. Thence, our HCI remote system could be a safe and accessible substitute interaction medium for mouses, keyboards [30], or pen-like tools [36], which all require close-distance contact with the machine.…”