ralph@utcsri.UUCP (ralph hill) (04/02/85)
Issues and Techniques in
Touch-Sensitive Tablet Input
W. Buxton
R. Hill
P. Rowley
Computer Systems Research Institute
University of Toronto
Toronto, Ontario
Canada M5S 1A4
(416) 978-6320
ABSTRACT
Touch-sensitive tablets and their use in human-computer
interaction are discussed. It is shown that in certain con-
texts such devices have some very important advantages over
more common technologies (such as mice and joysticks). The
analysis serves two purposes: (1) it sheds light on touch
tablets, and (2) we use an analysis of touch tablets to
demonstrate how other devices might be approached. Three
specific distinctions between touch tablets and traditional
devices are drawn. These concern: the signaling of events,
multiple point sensing and the use of templates. These dis-
tinctions are reinforced, and possible uses of touch tablets
are illustrated, with a simple example system. Potential
enhancements to touch tablets and other input devices are
discussed, as are some inherent problems. The paper con-
cludes with recommendations for future work.
CR Categories and Subject Descriptors: I.3.1 [Computer
Graphics]: Hardware Architecture: Input Devices. I.3.6
[Computer Graphics]: Methodology and Techniques: Device
Independence, Ergonomics, Interaction Techniques.
General Terms: Design, Human Factors.
Additional Keywords and Phrases: touch sensitive input dev-
ices.
This paper is to be presented at SIGGRAPH'85.