Overview
ISO/IEC 30113-5:2019 specifies the Gesture Interface Markup Language (GIML) - an XML-based format for formally describing gestures used by gesture-based interfaces across devices and methods. The standard defines the syntax, structure and schema of GIML so gestures can be expressed in a well-formed, human- and machine-readable way. GIML supports exchange and sharing of gesture definitions among ICT products, systems and services to enable consistent gesture recognition and command mapping.
Key topics and technical requirements
- XML foundation: GIML is defined as an XML subset (SGML-derived) and includes an XML schema (Annex A) and examples (Annex B).
- Root and core elements: The root element is
. The primary child is one or more elements, each with required attributes "id" and "name".
- Descriptive elements: `` carries gesture characteristics using attributes such as "desc" and optional "figure" (e.g., image filename).
- Alternative inputs:
can describe non-gesture equivalents using and `` elements to map conventional input to a gesture command.
- Gesture feature elements: The standard lists elements for defining gesture parameters and constraints (e.g.,
, , , , , , , ). These structure how gestures are specified for recognition and mapping.
- Interoperability focus: GIML aims to standardize gesture descriptions so different devices and gesture software can interpret and translate gestures into consistent commands.
Applications and who uses it
- Gesture software developers: Use GIML to define gesture grammars consumed by recognition engines and command processors.
- UI/UX and interaction designers: Create consistent, documented gesture definitions (including images) for multi-device experiences (touchscreens, 3D mice, depth cameras, gloves, etc.).
- System integrators and product teams: Exchange gesture definitions across platforms to ensure consistent behavior and interoperability.
- Accessibility and usability specialists: Map alternative input methods (keyboard/mouse) to gestures for wider accessibility.
- Standards bodies and tool vendors: Implement or reference the GIML XML schema for compliance and tooling.
Related standards
Keywords: Gesture Interface Markup Language, GIML, ISO/IEC 30113-5:2019, gesture-based interfaces, XML schema, gesture recognition, gesture commands, ICT products.
Open preview (PDF)Information technology — User interface — Gesture-based interfaces across devices and methods — Part 5: Gesture Interface Markup Language (GIML)
