Haptic chameleon: a new concept of shape-changing user interface controls with force feedback

ABSTRACT

In this paper, we introduce the concept of shape-changing, user interface control devices called "Haptic Chameleon", which refers to computer-controlled user interface devices that convey information to and from the user by altering their shape and feel. The user decides what a Haptic Chameleon control will do by changing its shape, and can immediately recognize the capabilities of the newly shaped device through haptic and tactile channels. By combining the benefits of tangible and haptic user interfaces, this new user interface paradigm has the potential to vastly improve the learning and efficiency of interaction in a wide range of applications. It also represents an appealing alternative to current control devices. We report on our experience with early prototypes based on this concept, discuss open issues, and propose possible directions for future work.

REFERENCES

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.5 INFORMATION INTERFACES AND PRESENTATION (I.7)
      H.5.2 User Interfaces (D.2.2, H.1.2, I.3.6)
          Subjects: Haptic I/O

Additional Classification:
  D. Software
  D.2 SOFTWARE ENGINEERING
      D.2.2 Design Tools and Techniques
          Subjects: User interfaces

  H. Information Systems
  H.1 MODELS AND PRINCIPLES
      H.1.2 User/Machine Systems
          Subjects: Human factors
  H.5 INFORMATION INTERFACES AND PRESENTATION (I.7)
      H.5.2 User Interfaces (D.2.2, H.1.2, I.3.6)
          Subjects: Evaluation/methodology

  I. Computing Methodologies
  I.3 COMPUTER GRAPHICS
      I.3.6 Methodology and Techniques
          Subjects: Interaction techniques

General Terms:
Human Factors

Keywords:
haptic user interfaces, shape-changing I/O devices, tangible user interfaces