721 Broadway
at Waverly Place
4th Floor
South Elevators
New York, NY 10003
For additional
information email
itp.inquiries@nyu.edu
or call 212.998.1880
| flathand | ||
|---|---|---|
| Author(s): | Zach Layton Leif Mangelsen |
 |
| Instructor: | Holoubek, Todd | |
| Class: | Introduction to Physical Computing | |
| URL: | http://itp.nyu.edu/~zl316/PCOMP/flathand.htm | |
| Documents: | flathand(JPEG) | |
| Keywords: | physical computing, interface design | |
| An Universal Controller ergonomically designed for the shape of a human hand, sending infinite and relative data. | ||
| We decided that we wanted to create a 'universal controller' interface that would be useful as a means of sending data into MAX/MSP, Processing or any kind of software capable of receiving variable controllor information. The flathand could also be considered as an alternative to the ubiquitous trackpad, offering a more ergonomic means of controlling cursor position. The uniquely useful aspect to the design is the fact that the potentiometers can be used to control infinite as well as relative data. In other words, the user can increment their position relative to the last position their finger was placed, or they can increase their position infinitely. The range can be scaled to the appropriate application so that the data input is as natural and easy to use as possible. | ||
| Background: | After several discussions, we decided to make a controller that had no moving parts and enabled more control that the available human interfaces on the market. Many MIDI controllers use sliders or knobs, we felt something in the shape of a hand would be more intimate and appealing. | |
| Audience: | Ideally, any kind of user who uses a mouse or a trackpad, or even a keyboard to commuincate with a computer could see this device as an alternative. At any given time, the flathand can send up to 8 variables as opposed to the X and Y coordinates of a trackpad. The flathand would be particularly useful for: VJs using the flathand to control realtime video processing, DJs and Electronic Musicians using the flathand to process and control audio in realtime. Video Game designers seeking novel methods of creating a user experience. The tactile element of the flathand would be ideally suited for more intimate types of game experience Medical Professionals using the hand shape for practice in virtual surgical applications. | |
| User Scenario: | see above. | |
| Technical System Description: | Custom Design Plexiglass, SpectraSymbol 'Soft Pot' linear Potentiomenters, Force Sensitive Resistor, IR Proximity Sensor, PIC 18592F Chip, LEDs for visual feedback, breadboard, on/off toggle switch, serial port, midi port | |
| Project References, Research and Literature: | a big thank you to spectrasymbol for providing the fantastic softpot potentiometers. | |
| Conclusions: | as a project for intro to physical computing this project enabled us to deal with a range of different sensors and other elements of circuit design...force sensitive resistors, proximity sensors, linear potentiometers, audio input, serial communication, etc. | |