Publication
Tracking Menus
Abstract
We describe a new type of graphical user interface widget, known as a “tracking menu.” A tracking menu consists of a cluster of graphical buttons, and as with traditional menus, the cursor can be moved within the menu to select and interact with items. However, unlike traditional menus, when the cursor hits the edge of the menu, the menu moves to continue tracking the cursor. Thus, the menu always stays under the cursor and close at hand.In this paper we define the behavior of tracking menus, show unique affordances of the widget, present a variety of examples, and discuss design characteristics. We examine one tracking menu design in detail, reporting on usability studies and our experience integrating the technique into a commercial application for the Tablet PC. While user interface issues on the Tablet PC, such as preventing round trips to tool palettes with the pen, inspired tracking menus, the design also works well with a standard mouse and keyboard configuration.
Download publicationRelated Resources
See what’s new.
1999
Exploring bimanual camera control and object manipulation in 3D graphics interfaces
We explore the use of the non-dominant hand to control a virtual…
2017
PhenoStacks: Cross-Sectional Cohort Phenotype Comparison Visualizations
Cross-sectional phenotype studies are used by genetics researchers to…
2013
Simulating the Sensing of Building Occupancy
Accurate building occupancy information can be beneficial in…
1995
Some Design Refinements and Principles on the Appearance and Behavior of Marking Menus
This paper describes some design refinements on marking menus and…
Get in touch
Something pique your interest? Get in touch if you’d like to learn more about Autodesk Research, our projects, people, and potential collaboration opportunities.
Contact us