Carbon copy metaphor: Combining absolute and relative coordinates inputs for trackpad

This paper proposes a novel input technique involving seamless switching between relative and absolute coordinate modes based on a "carbon copy" metaphor for trackpads. In the method, a small workspace ("carbon copy area") that corresponds in a oneto-one manner to a trackpad surface is displayed on a computer screen. While working on this virtual carbon copy paper, a user can operate in absolute coordinates; outside the paper, relative coordinates are used to move it anywhere and resize it. Therefore, our technique allows for the appropriate use of relative and absolute coordinate modes with arbitrary timing. This paper discusses the design of the technique, implementation of prototype applications, and a user study in which the technique received positive feedback and was shown to achieve a significantly higher input speed than that of a conventional pointing method.