This work will focus on shape changing materials. For example, experiments will be performed to explore how a tablet computer screen can deform from a flat surface to create a physical circular control.
Description
Key Information
Human-computer interaction research has identified the benefits of combining physical materials with digital interactions creating “tangible interfaces”. To date, these interfaces generally have been made out of fixed-form materials: e.g., plastic blocks that can be stacked and manipulated to sort digital content.
In contrast, this work will focus on shape changing materials. For example, experiments will be performed to explore how a tablet computer screen can deform from a flat surface to create a physical circular control.
In creating these highly novel surfaces, we draw inspiration from natural materials in the physical world including water, plants, smoke. Adding sensors to materials will help map out how they afford physical interaction. For example, as a seed grows into a plant, the number of surfaces available to touch increases over time.
Wilson’s team has used sophisticated digital sensors on animals: this experience will be beneficial as we design novel sensors for new materials; the data they have already gathered on animal movements can be analysed and presented via their state-of-the-art Visual Lab to provoke new forms of human-computer interaction (e.g. gliding and sweeping through a material rather than conventional touch-screen “prods” or “swipes”).
The group at Grenoble are world experts in deformable interfaces. The collaboration with the BBC will provide a challenging application domain; their interest is in how new surfaces (e.g. wallpaper, e-ink) can be used to manipulate future broadcasts.
Project Supervisors:
Prof Matt Jones, Head of Science, Swansea University
Prof Rory Wilson, Biosciences, Swansea University
Dr Celine Coutrix, Computer Science, UJF Grenoble
Dr Phil Stenton, BBC R&D, UK
Eligibility
Candidates must have at least an upper-second class honours degree, or a master's degree, in a relevant discipline. Evidence of a keen understanding of both embedded and tangible systems and human computer interaction is desirable.
This studentship is open to UK/EU students only.
Nr of positions available : 1
Research Fields
Computer science - Systems design
Career Stage
Early stage researcher or 0-4 yrs (Post graduate)
Research Profiles
First Stage Researcher (R1)
Benefits
The studentship covers the full cost of UK/EU tuition fees, plus a tax-free stipend at RCUK levels (currently £13,863 per annum).