Evaluation of cursor capturing functions in a target positioning task

This study proposes two cursor-capturing functions (jumping and gravity) in mouse operation. The jumping function is designed to move the cursor to a target instantaneously when the cursor reaches around it while the gravity function is designed to move the cursor to a target gradually. In an experiment conducted to examine their performance, target positioning time, accuracy, and subjective preference were measured and compared with the normal condition (i.e. with no function). The results showed that the gravity function had an advantage in positioning time and accuracy. In addition, the gravity function was preferred to the jumping and the normal condition. Benefits and drawbacks are discussed in using these functions for human–computer interaction. The cursor capturing functions are expected to help older users or novices in operating a mouse efficiently and easily. The proposed technique can be applied to software applications such as computer games where target positioning is frequent or essential. It may also be used to ease target positioning in various situations, e.g., mobile devices, virtual environment or software for motion-impaired users.