A 3D motion-tracking method in graphonomic research: possible applications in future handwriting recognition studies

Abstract

A three-dimensional (3D) motion tracking method as applied in graphonomic research is described. In addition to movements of the writing stylus, rotations of joints in the arm, hand, and index finger are recorded in a straightforward manner by making use of rigid bodies that define the position and orientation of the segments of a writer's arm and his or her pen. The method is developed in a visually-oriented, component-based programming environment which simplifies further software development and facilitates the use of the method alongside existing research paradigms. A modest example of the method and possible applications in future handwriting recognition studies are discussed.