PaperTouch
In this research, we developed PaperTouch, an approach to design paper based mechanisms that translate a variety of physical interactions to touch events on a capacitive touchscreen. These mechanisms act as switches that close during interaction, connecting the touchscreen to the device’s ground bus. To develop PaperTouch, we explored different types of paper along with the making process around them. We also built a range of applications to showcase different tangible interfaces facilitated with PaperTouch, including music instruments, educational dioramas, and playful products.
By reflecting on this exploration, we uncovered the emerging design dimensions that considers the interactions, materiality, and embodiment of PaperTouch interfaces. We also surfaced the tacit know-how that we gained through our design process through annotations for others to refer to.
Authors
Qian Ye
Zhen Zhou Yong
Bo Han
Ching-Chiuan Yen
Clement Zheng
Assistants
Vina Setiawaty
Isabelle Kirkwood
Joshua Tan
Hannah Ang
The PaperTouch switch splits a conductive trace into two parts: a screen electrode and a ground electrode. We use the device’s ground bus instead of bare-skin touch, to trigger the touch event on screen.
Example Applications