Belgian scientists are working on a concept for a smartphone-cum-tablet where the base is formed by Rubik’s Magic Puzzle. According to the researchers, the design ideal because the user device easy to build.
Paddle, as the researchers call their concept would eventually be able to do, as well as a game controller, e-reader or smart watch., not only as a smartphone or tablet service Based on the Rubik’s Magic Puzzle design can be used as a clamshell to take the phone a bracelet to scroll through a list or a small book to browse. Few pages by Unfolded, it is a rectangular or square tablet, while the regular smartphone format is a possibility.
The advantages of the flexible design are not only using a single device for multiple purposes, but also that the user experience would be better. physically with other forms “Our results show that people structures and content easier to remember if they for example physically by a book leaves on the Paddle, than they do with traditional touch screens,” says Raf Ramakers, student Human Computer Interaction at the University of Hasselt in Tweakers, “The Paddle combines the flexibility of touch screens with the qualities of physical control. “
Currently, the appearance of the interface to the various forms adapts by making use of an optical tracking system in combination with a projector. “We use the Natural Point Optitrack system that includes eight infrared cameras. Cameras illuminate the room with infrared light and markers on the Paddle reflect this. Cameras capture this and by combining the images is the position for less than one millimeter to determine, “says Ramakers,” Even finger positions can be so determined. “
In time it is intended that the Paddle touchscreens will contain. “Thanks to innovations in flexible electronics and displays within the next five to ten years can be produced with a small integrated display version” estimates Ramakers.
could be that the base of the device is a puzzle is an obstacle. “Puzzles are made to be as we strive simple transitions. Complex moment we make the user clear example activates the calendar functionality as he performs a particular action by lighting. Certain spots in the interface, this takes time to learn, may be too complicated if more functionality is added and creates visual clutter . “
The researchers will present their project at the end of April at the CHI conference in Toronto, Canada. There they hope to manufacturers interested in the Paddle. Raf Ramakers working on the project together with the professors Johannes Schöning and Kris Luyten of the University of Hasselt.
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