In-Situ Immersive Analytics Authoring through Ergonomic Keyboard Support

2026-06-07

AI Summary

This study addresses the inefficiency and discomfort of text input in existing augmented reality (AR) systems during mobile use, which hinders expressive creation in immersive analytics. To overcome this limitation, the authors propose the Body-Supported Keyboard (BSK) system—the first approach to integrate an ergonomic support mechanism into AR environments by leveraging the user’s body to stabilize a Bluetooth keyboard, thereby enabling stable typing and postural comfort during free movement. Comparative experiments demonstrate that BSK achieves task completion times comparable to those of a standing desk, with a slightly higher error rate but significantly improved comfort during mobility. The system attained a System Usability Scale (SUS) score of 74.5, underscoring its practical potential for supporting expressive tasks in AR-based immersive analytics.

Abstract

Immersive analytics uses augmented reality (AR) to integrate data analysis and authoring within physical environments. However, extensive text entry required for immersive analytics authoring remains a fundamental challenge in AR, as popular natural user interfaces often hinder expressive input. This paper presents the Body-Supported Keyboard (BSK), an ergonomic system that allows the mobile use of a Bluetooth keyboard in AR. We conducted a controlled study with 20 participants to compare the BSK with a standing desk during text transcription and a mobile AR scenario. The results showed slightly higher error rates but comparable task completion times. Participants reported comfort improvements during mobile use and positive usability ratings (mean SUS = 74.5). The BSK allows users to move freely and maintain stable postures while authoring in AR. In general, the findings show evidence of the potential for body-supported input to enhance expressive and ergonomic workflows in immersive analytics and emphasize the importance of comfort and mobility in the design of AR authoring tools.

Problem

• Immersive Analytics
• Augmented Reality
• Text Input
• Ergonomics
• Mobile Authoring

Innovation

• Immersive Analytics
• Augmented Reality
• Ergonomic Input
• Body-Supported Keyboard
• Mobile Authoring