Mechanical constraints as common ground between people and computers
Name
69410178-MIT.pdf
Description
Full printable version
Size
18.85 MB
Format
Adobe PDF
Checksum (MD5)
290dc3ad3bd8b90ecd71f24818f291c0
Author(s)
Patten, James McMichael, 1977-
Advisor(s)
Hiroshi Ishii.
Date Issued
2006
Publisher
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Abstract
This thesis presents a new type of human-computer interface based on mechanical constraints that combines some of the tactile feedback and affordances of mechanical systems with the abstract computational power of modern computers. The interface is based on a tabletop interaction surface that can sense and move small objects on top of it. Computation is merged with dynamic physical processes on the tabletop that are exposed to and modified by the user in order to accomplish his or her task. The system places mechanical constraints and mathematical constraints on the same level, allowing users to guide simulations and optimization processes by constraining the motion of physical objects on the interaction surface. The interface provides ample opportunities for improvisation by allowing the user to employ a rich variety of everyday physical objects as interface elements. Subjects in an evaluation were more effective at solving a complex spatial layout problem using this system than with either of two alternative interfaces that did not feature actuation.
Description
Thesis (Ph. D.)--Massachusetts Institute of Technology, School of Architecture and Planning, Program in Media Arts and Sciences, 2006.
Includes bibliographical references (p. 143-149).
Subjects
Architecture. Program In Media Arts and Sciences
MIT Department
Program in Media Arts and Sciences (Massachusetts Institute of Technology)
Terms of Use
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