CS SEMINAR

Novel User Interfaces for Bridging the Physical-Digital Divide

Speaker
Dr. Jason Alexander
Lecturer
School of Computing and Communications
Lancaster University


08 Apr 2016 Friday, 02:00 PM to 03:00 PM

Ideation Room, CUTE Center

Abstract:

Tangible User Interfaces allow users to manipulate physical artefacts as a method for interacting with computing devices. These are usually input or output only; in this work, we explore how shape-changing interfaces enable co-located input and output allowing two-way physical/digital communication. We use these novel user interfaces to bring virtual information back into the physical world where users can complement their visual interpretations with tactile explorations.

This talk will describe a range of projects from our lab that aim to address the physical-digital divide through shape-changing interfaces - those that can physically mutate their for, to better represent digital content, provide an additional information channel, and facilitate tangible interaction. It will conclude with a look at the challenges faced by this emerging field.


Biodata:

Jason is a lecturer in the School of Computing and Communications at Lancaster University. His primary research area is Human-Computer Interaction, with a particular interest in bridging the physical-digital divide using novel physical interaction devices and techniques. His recent work has focused on the development of a range of shape-changing displays, exploring the field of data physicalization, and developing new methods of design for fabrication. His work is funded by the European Commission and EPSRC. Further information can be found at www.jasonalexander.kiwi.