Theoretical issues of cluster pattern interfaces

Abstract

Since the 80s, when the computer mouse was first invented, point-and-click functionality became widely adopted, in particular, for work with images and GUIs. It would be useful to provide such functionality for printed materials, as well. A direct point-and-click functionality should not require tablet-like devices, but should rather use an embedded marking which defines a coordinate system within the image. An original approach and related technology for direct interface, known as Cluster Pattern Interface (CLUSPI), was proposed [12]. It is based on an unobtrusive layer of the image defining a coordinate system, a camera-based pointing device, and decoding software. CLUSPI technology was invented and patented by one of the authors of this paper. Here we present the theoretical (mathematical) foundations of the methods developed. We also describe some theoretical challenges and propose solutions to them. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2009.