Snaplet: using body shape to inform function in mobile flexible display devices

With recent advances in flexible displays, computer displays are no longer restricted to flat, rigid form factors. In this paper, we propose that the physical form of a flexible display, depending on the way it is held or worn, can help shape its current functionality. We propose Snaplet, a wearable flexible E Ink display augmented with sensors that allow the shape of the display to be detected. Snaplet is a paper computer in the form of a bracelet. When in a convex shape on the wrist, Snaplet functions as a watch and media player. When held flat in the hand it is a PDA with notepad functionality. When held in a concave shape Snaplet functions as a phone. Calls are dropped by returning its shape to a flat or convex shape. Keywords Flexible Displays, E Ink, Bend Gestures, Organic User Interfaces. ACM Classification Keywords H5.m. Information interfaces and presentation (e.g., HCI): Miscellaneous. General Terms Human Factors, Experimentation.

• Type: Journal
• Year: 2011
• Where: CHI
• Authors: Aneesh P. Tarun, Byron Lahey, Audrey Girouard, Winslow Burleson, Roel Vertegaal
• Keywords: CHI 2011, Convex Shape, Flexible Displays, Human Computer Interaction, Notepad Functionality