Characteristics of pressure-based input for mobile devices

We conducted a series of user studies to understand and clarify the fundamental characteristics of pressure in user interfaces for mobile devices. We seek to provide insight to clarify a longstanding discussion on mapping functions for pressure input. Previous literature is conflicted about the correct transfer function to optimize user performance. Our study results suggest that the discrepancy can be explained by different signal conditioning circuitry and with improved signal conditioning the user-performed precision relationship is linear. We also explore the effects of hand pose when applying pressure to a mobile device from the front, the back, or simultaneously from both sides in a pinching movement. Our results indicate that grasping type input outperforms single-sided input and is competitive with pressure input against solid surfaces. Finally we provide an initial exploration of non-visual multimodal feedback, motivated by the desire for eyes-free use of mobile devices. The ...

• Type: Conference
• Year: 2010
• Where: CHI
• Authors: Craig Stewart, Michael Rohs, Sven G. Kratz, Georg Essl
• Keywords: CHI 2010, Human Computer Interaction, Mobile Device, Non-visual Pressure Input, Pressure Input