Distributed Interactive Surfaces: A Step Towards the Distribution of Tangible and Virtual Objects

Abstract

After having outlined the uses of new technologies such as smartphones, touchscreen tablets and laptops, in this paper we present the TangiSense interactive table, equipped with RFID technology tagged on tangible objects, as new paradigm of interaction for ambient intelligence. We propose a problem space and some scenarios illustrating the distribution of user interfaces within the framework of collective work. A case study centered on crisis management units, i.e. a collaborative situation, with multiple actors who are geographically separate, makes it possible to illustrate possible distributed uses and the TangiSense’s capacities. To finish, the chapter presents the directions under consideration for our future research.