Replacing the computer mouse

TL;DR

This paper explores camera-based head tracking as an effective alternative to traditional computer mice, aiming to enhance user productivity and health by reducing reliance on the mouse and addressing its drawbacks.

Contribution

It demonstrates that head tracking systems can efficiently replace mouse functions, offering a healthier and more productive human-computer interaction method.

Findings

Head tracking can efficiently replace mouse cursor movement.

Mouse clicks can be emulated through various methods.

Using head tracking may improve user health and productivity.

Abstract

In a few months the computer mouse will be half-a-century-old. It is known to have many drawbacks, the main ones being: loss of productivity due to constant switching between keyboard and mouse, and health issues such as RSI. Like the keyboard, it is an unnatural human-computer interface. However the vast majority of computer users still use computer mice nowadays. In this article, we explore computer mouse alternatives. Our research shows that moving the mouse cursor can be done efficiently with camera-based head tracking system such as the SmartNav device, and mouse clicks can be emulated in many complementary ways. We believe that computer users can increase their productivity and improve their long-term health by using these alternatives.