TAC.TILES is a physical interface that can be used for 3D modeling. The interface consists of 15 modules which can be put together according to the user's preferences. Each of these modules brings a change in the shape of the 3D model. The advantage of this physical interface is that the user can design in a pleasant and intuitive way.

Design Team

Simon Van Pottelbergh

As a product designer I often make use of digital fabrication machines like 3D-printers, which are very accurate and fast. The software to create 3D-models, however CAD software is often quite complex and requires much more time.

The reason this software is often not easy to use is its graphical user interface. This kind of interface creates a barrier between user and computer. To solve this problem, I created a physical interface that lets designers create 3D models in a matter of minutes.

The interface is made out of 15 modules. These modules are able to control the basic geometry and shape and create parameters through physical manipulation of the buttons. The shape of the buttons is designed to create a certain 'affordance' to the user. These different modules let the user perform actions like pulling, pushing, twisting and bending. Through the performance of these actions, the shape of the 3D model can be controlled.

Before TAC.TILES was created, a lot of research happened. Part of this research was to explore other types of physical interfaces, like musical instruments. With a musical instrument, it is possible to create and deform sound through physical movements of the hand. TAC.TILES is similar to this kind of interface, though it does not generate sound.

To be able to act as a physical interface, the modules are equipped with both a microcontroller and different kinds of sensors that measure the user's actions. These sensors are infrared sensors, pressure sensors, potentiometers and bend sensors. The sensors measure the different kind of parameters and send these values to the computer in order to change the shape of the virtual model.

Besides being a physical interface, TAC.TILES is also modular. There are two reasons for this. First of all, the user does not need all 15 modules at all times. By only assembling the modules that are needed, a very clean and simple interface is created. The second reason is to let users choose the position arrangement of the different modules. The possibility to design and choose your own control panel is purely based on personal preference.

Each of the modules is equipped with magnetic USB ports. This way the modules easily snap together. Not only do the modules connect physically this way, they also connect digitally with each other and the computer. The magnetic USB system makes it easy for the user to both connect and disconnect the modules at all times.

The purpose of TAC.TILES is to let users create 3D-models in a fast and intuitive way. One specific purpose is form finding. Form finding is used in design and architecture in the beginning of a design phase, in order to generate as much shapes as possible in a short time. The interface is thus used to create abstract shapes or designs and not ready to use models or products.

The main target groups are, as mentioned before, designers and architects. Nonetheless, thanks to the physical aspect of the interface, TAC.TILES can even be used by inexperienced users who are unfamiliar with 3D modeling. The learning curve is more practical and based on trial and error, which is way more inviting than the theoretical approach of traditional CAD-software.

At the moment, TAC.TILES is just a prototype that shows only the potential of a physical interface for 3D modeling. By developing and expanding the functionality of the different modules, the possibilities TAC.TILES can offer will expand even more. The goal is not to compete with CAD-software, but to provide an alternative way for 3D modeling.

Learn More About This Projectx