Novel multiple-functional IMU-based wearable air mouse for the simultaneous operation with (Air) keyboards

In this paper, we present a novel concept of a wearable air mouse specialized to facilitate two new functions, which exist in conventional computer mice but are hardly realized in previous IMU-based wearable devices. The new functions are the simultaneous operation with another typing devices such as computer keyboards or air keyboards, and the multiple operations, including positioning or scrolling. Our system consists of two micro inertial measurement units (IMUs) mounted on the backs of left and right hands. The left-hand IMU is used to sequentially select operation modes, from idle mode (denoted as mode 0), mouse pointing mode (mode 1), and mouse function mode (mode 2). The mode change occurs by flipping the left hand. During the "mouse mode", the right-hand IMU is used to position a mouse cursor. Clicking and scrolling are also realized using only gyroscope signals.