Reading #9 : The Satellite Cursor: Achieving MAGIC Pointing without Gaze Tracking using Multiple Cursors

Comments

Reference

The Satellite Cursor: Achieving MAGIC Pointing without Gaze Tracking using Multiple Cursors

Chun Yu, Yuanchun Shi, Ravin Balakrishnan, Xiangliang Meng, Yue Suo, Mingming Fan, Yongqiang Qin

UIST10 - New York

Summary

A novel technique for using multiple cursors to improve pointing performance through the reduction of input movement is presented. The new technique, a Satellite Cursor, proves through two experiments to be more beneficial than standard pointing. The major concern is that with increasing screen size, use of the single cursor leads to delayed input times and frustration. The paper identifies many previous methods for solving this problem, and the proposes using Satellite Cursors as a solution. This technique works by optimally placing cursors next to each target. The movement of the physical hardware then moves all of the cursors synchronously. The target can then be selected in optimal time. The paper presents several algorithmic approaches for modifying target layout in order to support this method. The paper also proposes variations of hiding the cursors prior to movement, or indicating the possible cursors to be used based on the user’s input. This technique allows for less distraction. The paper also proposes using grouping for dense target regions. An experiment was performed with 10 people that indicated the success of Satellite Cursors in relation to other methods. However MAGIC pointing proved to be faster than in some trials.

Analysis

I had never considered the idea of having multiple cursors bound to various targets in order to speed up the input time. At first, I rejected this idea, thinking of the distractions it would cause and possible confusion. However, upon examining the natural way I use the existing point cursor, I realized that I first fixate on the target, then try to find the cursor. Often times I just move the input device rapidly to locate the cursor out of the corner of my eye, while still fixated on the target. This leads me to believe that multiple cursors would increase productivity. I especially like the idea of hiding the cursors and of grouping denser target areas. This paper was weak in that its study only contained 10 participants and the test system was a set of simple geometric targets. I look forward to seeing this tested with existing software.