viaCross: A Pen-Based Technique for Selecting Objects and Attributes of Interest using Crossing-Based Gestures

2026-10-02

AI Summary

This study addresses the limitations of conventional crossing selection techniques in handling multi-object and attribute-based selections by proposing viaCross, a pen-based interaction technique. This method pioneers the application of crossing gestures to define complex multi-object and attribute constraints, constructing an attribute constraint model through crossing strokes integrated with editable attribute visualization widgets to facilitate efficient selection. Experimental evaluations demonstrate that viaCross significantly outperforms traditional methods in complex selection tasks while exhibiting strong scalability. However, it performs slightly less effectively than conventional panel-based interfaces in simple selection and fine-grained adjustment scenarios.

Abstract

Crossing-based selection is well-studied, yet past research has overlooked multi-object and attribute selection with crossing gestures. We present viaCross, a pen-based technique in which crossing strokes define attribute constraints, paired with attribute widgets that visualize and allow subsequent edits to these constraints. A controlled study compared viaCross with traditional WIMP filter panels. Results show that viaCross was more efficient for complex object-level selections, requiring fewer strokes and maintaining efficiency as task difficulty increased. WIMP panels were faster and more intuitive for simple attribute-based selections, but participants encountered repeated deselections and occasional misclicks. viaCross matched panel performance for creating attribute selections but was slower during refinement, as widgets had to be recreated, indicating the need for persistent widgets or hybrid support with a WIMP-style interface. Overall, viaCross demonstrates that crossing-based gestures can provide an efficient and scalable approach to multi-object and attribute selection.

Problem

• crossing-based selection
• multi-object selection
• attribute selection
• pen-based interaction
• gesture interaction

Innovation

• Crossing-based gestures
• Pen-based interaction
• Multi-object selection
• Attribute constraints
• Attribute widgets