Accuracy and frequency analysis of multitouch interfaces for individuals with Parkinsonian and essential hand tremor

Abstract

In this study, the accuracy of an optical mouse, optical trackball, isotonic joystick, and a FingerWorks MultiTouch Surface (MTS) are compared for users suffering from Parkinsonian tremor and essential tremor. Using a data acquisition program, WinFitts, created at the University of Oregon's HCI Lab, data collected from five subjects with Parkinsonian tremor, five with essential tremor, and eleven with no tremor is analyzed and compared. Both temporal and spatial analyses are obtained from all of the subject data. The time-based measures of performance for each device include the uses of Fitts' law and the Proximity Movement Time, while the spatially-based measures include the use of the Deviation Accuracy and the Click Histogram. A statistical analysis is performed using a t-test to show the differences between the resulting means of some of the measures. By using the MUSIC spectral estimation technique, an analysis of the frequency and the amplitude of the tremor showed how certain devices performed in hand tremor suppression.