Touchpad-based remote control devices

Abstract

A new style of remote control device (RCD) that incorporates a touchpad for input is described. Unistrokes created through touch are used to issue commands and select menu items presented on a television screen. The design addresses the drawbacks of traditional RCDs, such as an over-abundance of buttons and the lack of alphanumeric input. We have assembled a prototype using a Windows9.5-based computer, an infrared card, and a touchpad. Future developments and research plans for the touchpadbased RCD are also discussed.