EIT week45-2 Shape-Changing Interfaces

Shape-Changing Interfaces Overview

Course Information

• Course: Engineering Interaction Technologies
• Professor: Michael Wessely
• Institution: Interactive Matter Lab

Introduction to Shape-Changing Interfaces

• Definition: Interfaces that physically alter their shape to provide dynamic physical feedback or adapt to different functional or aesthetic needs.

Examples of Everyday Shape-Changing Objects

• Standing Desks: Adapt to different body positions for ergonomic benefits.
• Air Mattresses: Inflate or deflate to save space or provide sleeping accommodations.
• Kinetic Sculptures: Such as ‘Diffusion Choir’ by Sosolimited, which create aesthetic effects through movement.

Technological Innovations in Shape-Changing Interfaces

• Inflatables (Pneumatic Structures):
  • PneUI (2013): Interfaces that use air pressure to change shapes.
  • AeroMorph (2016) and Printflatables (2017): Projects exploring how inflatable structures can be designed and fabricated.
  • TilePop (2019) and PneuSeries (2021): Developments in modular and reconfigurable pneumatic systems.

Composite Materials and Actuators

• UniMorph (2015): Utilizes composite layers with differential expansion properties to change shape.

• Printed Paper Actuator (2018): Incorporates conductive PLA for resistive heating, causing shape change.

• 4DMesh (2018): Features materials that act as shrinkage and bending actuators.

Shape Memory Alloys and Jamming

• Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) Applications: Metals that return to their original shapes after deformation when heated.
• Jamming User Interfaces (2012) and JamSheets (2014): Utilize granular materials that can switch between fluid-like and solid states for adaptive structures.

Advanced Materials and Robotic Mechanisms

• ExpandFab (2017/2020): A fabrication method that enables materials to expand post-production.
• Self Healing UI and Electroactive Polymers (2017): Explore repair and responsive capabilities in materials.
• Robotic Interfaces:
  • InForm (2013) and ShapeShift (2018): Robotic platforms that dynamically change their surface configurations.
  • ShapeBots (2019): Miniature robots that collectively form reconfigurable user interfaces.

Conclusion

Shape-changing interfaces represent a significant advancement in HCI, offering new ways to interact with technology that are more intuitive and responsive to user needs. These technologies not only enhance user experience but also push the boundaries of what is possible in design and functionality.