First steps in distributed tangible technologies

Abstract

The paper introduces an example of a 'distributed tangible technology' as a new type of technology that enables children in different physical locations to engage in physical interaction. A virtual tug of war game is an example of a distributed tangible technology that is played by groups of children pulling a rope from two separate locations. The game was launched when teams in Finland and South Africa competed during an international science festival. The paper describes the design and implementation of the tug of war game. It explores the challenges combining tangible user interfaces with distributed computing and distributed technologies to be overcome in future educational applications for children.

The Art of Tug of War: Investigating the Influence of Remote Touch on Social Presence in a Distributed Rope Pulling Game

“…The aim of the system was to demonstrate the possibilities of creating sports-like social games that can be played at a distance. In a similar fashion, Harfield et al [1] developed a tug-of-war exertion game that can be played by physically separated players. The system is capable of measuring forces of up to 250 kg.…”

“…We pilot tested the setup with children because we considered them to be a viable target group for a potential large scale distributed rope pulling installation (see also [1]). All children played the game once.…”

“…In essence, we can speak of a spatially distributed game, where players are in physical contact with each other through the shared medium of the rope. Though the spatial distribution of a classic rope pulling game is limited by the length of the rope, efforts have been made to enlarge the spatial distribution of the rope pulling game through the use of Internet communication [1] [2]. Harfield et al [1] describe a distributed rope pulling system that was designed to enable children in distant locations to play a game of tug of war over the Internet.…”

“…Though the spatial distribution of a classic rope pulling game is limited by the length of the rope, efforts have been made to enlarge the spatial distribution of the rope pulling game through the use of Internet communication [1] [2]. Harfield et al [1] describe a distributed rope pulling system that was designed to enable children in distant locations to play a game of tug of war over the Internet. Similarly Christian et al [2] present a tug of war game in which the player plays against a virtual character.…”

Rope Revolution

“…In the SPIDAR system [13], string was used to provide users with feedback about the position and orientation of the force applied by a remote counterpart. Using ropes, Harfield, et al [1], introduced the concept of "distributed tangible technology" by developing a remote tug-of-war system. The system was played between groups in Finland and South Africa.…”