Dynamic relabeling of the SLAP keyboard

Ever since multi touch technology made its way into our lives through public displays and handheld devices, we have been in a state of infatuation with virtual controls. We pinch photos, flick menus, and spin maps around a virtual globe with ease. As seductive as these experiences are, there are still times when the tactile feedback and accuracy of physical objects are still preferable, and researchers at RWTH Aachen University in Germany in conjunction with UC San Diego have created the Silicone Illuminated Active Peripherals, or "SLAP Widgets" system to try to get a better handle on it.

In a recent CHI2009 presentation, Malte Weiss of the Media Computing Group at RWTH Aachen University demonstrated the system, explaining that certain tasks that require precision, such as locating a specific frame in a video, are better handled through physical input devices than through virtual ones. The system, which includes off the shelf components such as an iSkin silicone keyboard protector, as well as custom made widgets such as the dials and sliders, is currently under development.

SLAP Widget set. a) Keypads. b) Knob. c) Slider. d) Keyboard.

More information about the project, including a video of the system can be found at the RWTH Aachen University Media Computing Group website: http://hci.rwth-aachen.de/slap