Analysis and Classification of Shape-Changing Interfaces for Design and Application-based Research

Abstract

Shape-changing interfaces are physically tangible, interactive devices, surfaces or spaces which allow for rich, organic and novel experiences with computational devices. Over the last fifteen years, research has produced functional prototypes over many use-applications, and reviews have identified themes and possible future directions-but have not yet looked at possible design or application based research. Here we gather this information together to provide a reference for designers and researchers wishing to build upon existing prototyping work, using synthesis and discussion of existing shape-changing interface reviews and comprehensive analysis and classification of 84 shape-changing interfaces. Eight categories of prototype are identified, alongside recommendations for the field.

Grand Challenges in Shape-Changing Interface Research

“…Roudaut et al [75] propose the term shape-resolution to extend the definition of display resolution to shape-changing interfaces. Finally, Sturdee and Alexander [91] categorise shape-changing interface prototypes with a view to informing their design and application. The reader is referred to these works for full reviews of the field.…”

“…While prior surveys have discussed challenges from a few different disciplinary perspectives [10,72,91], the overarching grand challenges facing the development of shape-changing interfaces have not been systematically explored. With the maturing of the field, it becomes increasingly important to identify a roadmap for future research, as new questions have emerged.…”

3D Printed Deformable Surfaces for Shape-Changing Displays

“…Poupyrev et al (2007) provide an overview of actuation mechanisms and techniques that combine image and dynamic shapes. Coelho and Zigelbaum (2011) survey shape-changing materials and their primary dynamic properties; while recent reviews classify (Rasmussen et al, 2012;Sturdee and Alexander, 2018) current state-of-the-art for shape-changing displays and interfaces. Commonly, shape-changing displays consist of a 2D array of motorized linear actuation pins (Poupyrev et al, 2004;Leithinger and Ishii, 2010;Follmer et al, 2013;Leithinger et al, 2013;Ishii et al, 2015;Jang et al, 2016) or deformable surface materials (Dand and Hemsley, 2013;Tsimeris et al, 2013;Yao et al, 2013;Sahoo et al, 2016).…”

Foldwatch

“…There has been a surge of interest in shape-changing interfaces in the past decade, with various functional prototypes extending our technical knowledge of how to build, and classify, such devices [17,20,54]. However, advances in shape-changing, foldable displays are so far an under-utilised solution for extending the smartwatch zone of interaction: having a variable extendable display would be a logical way of allowing for additional, larger visual input, without compromising on wearability or size (as with the Paddle phone concept [44].…”