LineFORM: designing interactions with actuated curve interfaces

Abstract

A line is a form that is primitive yet versatile. With its transformation capability, the line can transform into curves, surfaces and solid shapes. As a familiar form factor we encounter in everyday life in the shape of strings, tapes or wires, the form of line provides various tangible interactions, including knotting, wrapping, tying, and connecting. Lines are also used to represent abstract information, from the original drawings using line from thousands of years ago, to now when they are used to compose digital geometrical models through wireframe or Bézier data. The customization capability is another characteristic of line; strings or tape can be cut and rearranged to create various shapes and configurations. In this thesis, we will introduce "LineFORM, a novel concept for shape changing interfaces which uses physical lines to bridge the dynamic digital environment and the tangible physical world. Utilizing the versatile characteristics of lines mentioned above, we explore and define the design space for interactions with actuated curve interfaces. We implement two major versions of prototypes based on serpentine robotics technology to demonstrate a wide range of applications. For the applications, both digital and physical environment-based applications are being proposed. The system design and the implementation of LineFORM are evaluated through preliminary technical evaluation, and the limitations and future works are discussed. Through this initial design and technical exploration of actuated curve interfaces for interaction design, we envision the future where the adaptability and dynamism of digital environment will be seamlessly woven into our daily life.