Text Input Evaluation with a Torso-mounted QWERTY Keyboard in Wearable Computing(<Special Issue>Mixed Reality)

Abstract

In this paper, we construct a prototype of a wearable text input device that can be attached to a user's torso or pants and conduct a pilot study on its use with a head mounted display (HMD). The user can enter text while mobile without having to look at his or her fingers. The layout of the keys is similar to that of a QWERTY keyboard, but the device is separated into two halves so that they can be positioned and oriented for comfortable typing on clothing. It is flexible and conforms to the shape of the user's torso. In our pilot study testing input speed, a total of 7 participants conducted various typing tasks, and reached an average speed of 30.1 words per minute (WPM) amongst all tasks in a 45 minute session. We then conduct an analysis of a large number of recent text entry methods that can potentially be used with wearable displays, including the results from our experiment. We also discuss a lighter, wireless prototype reflecting feedback in the pilot study, which can be easily attached to clothing with magnets.