# Wheeler: A Three-Wheeled Input Device for Usable, Efficient, and Versatile Non-Visual Interaction

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2408.13166 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2408.13166/

## Key facts

- Cited by 1 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- First posted on arXiv 23 Aug 2024.

## Built on by (most cited first, 1 of 1)

- [IKIWISI: An Interactive Visual Pattern Generator for Evaluating the Reliability of Vision-Language Models Without Ground Truth](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2505.22305/) (2025)

## Abstract (arXiv)

Blind users rely on keyboards and assistive technologies like screen readers to interact with user interface (UI) elements. In modern applications with complex UI hierarchies, navigating to different UI elements poses a significant accessibility challenge. Users must listen to screen reader audio descriptions and press relevant keyboard keys one at a time. This paper introduces Wheeler, a novel three-wheeled, mouse-shaped stationary input device, to address this issue. Informed by participatory sessions, Wheeler enables blind users to navigate up to three hierarchical levels in an app independently using three wheels instead of navigating just one level at a time using a keyboard. The three wheels also offer versatility, allowing users to repurpose them for other tasks, such as 2D cursor manipulation. A study with 12 blind users indicates a significant reduction (40%) in navigation time compared to using a keyboard. Further, a diary study with our blind co-author highlights Wheeler's additional benefits, such as accessing UI elements with partial metadata and facilitating mixed-ability collaboration.