Multi-Touch Interface Research

Finally, we’ve decided to invest into a Stantum SMK 15.4, a multi-touch screen that will make it easier for us to develop, test and present applications for our table. We can use the same vvvv multitouch objects on the table and on the screen. Funnily enough, they also share the same resolution, 1280×800.

After some tweaking and one night of C# and C++ magic by Richard Radlherr, we have developed an interface to vvvv via OSC. The Stantum screen has almost no delay, and reacts to very slight touches well. Unlike the iPhone, it also reacts to pressure only (not only fingers), so you can also use pens and finger nails. The number of touches is not limited, as far as we know until know. The only downturns are the small size (15,4″ – bigger screens should be available soon) and that the screen is not as bright as it could be.

Here is a video of us having a great time unpacking and testing the screen:

Multi-Touch – Unpacking the Stantum SMK from Andreas Koller (Strukt) on Vimeo.It’s also available on Youtube.

We’ve already put it into use for a visual tool developed for a client (more info on this project soon). We will also collect more video footage of our multitouch tools, which are being developed by David Dessens aka Sanch, and share it with you.

Regarding the table we also have good news, as the prototype is being built right now and can be expected in 3 to 4 weeks.