ClaytricSurface

Introduction †

In the field of human-computer interaction, specifically interface-surface research, the "softness" of a surface medium is one significant factor in determining a suitable means of interaction. With direct touch input, for example, the degree of surface softness allows for generation of various touch sensations and tactile feedback. Softness also affects the shape of the surface: a soft surface allow users to deform the surface at will, while a hard surface maintains its shape. So far, flexible surfaces have been considered static and unchangeable.

ClaytricSurface considers the softness of a surface to be dynamic and thus further explores interaction possibilities with this type of surface. The surface can be used as both a traditional rigid, planar display and a flexible soft display. And users can dynamically change the surface tension at any time.

Features of ClaytricSurface †

The main features of ClaytricSurface are as follows:

• Firstly, the user can this surface as both a traditional rigid/planar display and flexible soft display.
• Secondly, the user is able to dynamically change the surface tension at any time.
• Thirdly, ClaytricSurface is able to present the gradual dynamic translation of its properties from soft to hard and vice versa.

System Hardware †

Editing...

Prototype Applications †

We are developing prototype of future applications.

2.5D Modeling and Texturing Tool †

We developed a 2.5-dimensional modeling application that enables the user to directly form a 2.5-dimensional model and paint a texture on top of this surface. The user can switch the surface softness state by using touch input with a simple GUI button and slider. The user can easily create original and unique models by using variety of touch input such as “gathering with both hands”, “pulling and tugging” and “finger painting” while experiencing the touch sensation of a dynamically-changing material.

With an Electric Pen Device †

We have also developed another application augments pen-based interaction. The user's pen input is detected by electromagnetic fields produced from under the table.In this application, the user can change the shape of the surface and also dynamically adjust the friction resistance between pen tip and the surface.

Photos †

Video †

• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u8POnhytMXA&list=UUv8-Y0qRBJMKlRgIY9B_yjg&index=1&feature=plcp

Exhibition †

• ACM Symposium on User Interface Software and Technologies 2012(UIST2012)
• ACM SIGGRAPH2012 Emerging Technologies (2012.8)
• Laval Virtual ReVolution? 2012 (2012.4)
  • Invited
• ACM Interactive Tabletop and Surfaces 2011(ITS2011) (2011.11)
  • Our first demonstration

Awards †

• Laval Virtual Award (Industrial Design and Simulation), Laval Virtual ReVolution? 2012

• Interactive Presentation Award, WISS2011(Workshop on Interactive System and Software)

Project Members and Contact Address †

• Toshiki Sato(me)
• Yasushi Matoba(D3)
• Nobuhiro Takahashi(D1)
• Pardomuan Jefferson(M1)
• Noriyuki Aihara(M1)
• Hideki Koike(professor of our laboratory)

Please contact us by Email: info [at] vogue.is.uec.ac.jp