WERABE UNIVERSITY

INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
DEPARTMENT OF TECHNOLOGY
A
Seminar
Report on
SURFACE COMPUTING
1. MOHAMMED AHMED
2. GACH DENG
3. SEMERIYA SHIFA
4. AYMEN AMAN

WERABE, Ethiopia (Oct, 2024)

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Contents
1. INTRODUCTION TO SURFACE COMPUTING............................................................3

1.1 OBJECTIVE OF SUFACE COMPUTING.................................................................3

1.2 History of Surface Computing.....................................................................................4

2. How Was Surface Computing Developed Who Was The Contributor..............................5

3. How Does Surface Computing Works...................................................................................6

4. Which Protocol Is Surface Computing Uses..........................................................................7

5. Advantage and Disadvantage of Surface Computing.........................................................8

6. Application Area of Surface Computing................................................................................9

Summary..................................................................................................................................11

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Seminar report

INTRODUCTION TO SURFACE COMPUTING

Surface computing refers to interactive computing that utilizes large touch-sensitive surfaces
as the primary interface for user interaction. It allows users to interact with digital content
using gestures, touch, and physical objects placed on the surface. Key features of surface
computing include:
 Multi-Touch Interaction: Supports multiple users interacting simultaneously.
 Gestural Control: Users can manipulate digital content with natural hand
movements.
 Object Recognition: Can detect and respond to physical objects placed on the
surface, often integrating real-world items into the digital experience.
 Intuitive Design: Aims to make technology more accessible by mimicking real-world
interactions. Applications can be found in various fields, including education,
entertainment, retail, and collaborative workspaces. Overall, surface computing
enhances user engagement and provides a more immersive experience (1).

1.1 OBJECTIVE OF SUFACE COMPUTING

The objectives of surface computing include:
 Enhanced User Interaction: To create a more intuitive and natural way for users to
interact with digital content, mimicking real-world interactions.
 Collaboration: To support multiple users engaging simultaneously, fostering
teamwork and collective problem-solving.
 Accessibility: To make technology more approachable for a diverse range of users,
including those who may not be familiar with traditional interfaces.
 Integration of Physical and Digital: To seamlessly blend real-world objects with
digital information, enhancing user experience and context.
 Rich User Experiences: To provide engaging and immersive experiences through
interactive visuals and responsive feedback.

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 Innovation in Applications: To explore new applications in various fields, such as

education, healthcare, and entertainment, leveraging the unique capabilities of touch-
based interfaces.
Overall, surface computing aims to improve the way people interact with technology by
making it more engaging, collaborative, and accessible. (1)

1.2 History of Surface Computing

The history of surface computing can be traced through several key developments and
technological advancements:
Early Concepts (1960s-1980s): The idea of using touch and gestural interfaces dates
back to early computer science experiments. Researchers explored ways to make
computers more user-friendly, paving the way for future innovations.
Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs): The introduction of GUIs in the 1980s
transformed computing, allowing users to interact with icons and visual elements.
This set the stage for more intuitive interfaces.
Multi-Touch Technology (2000s): The development of multi-touch technology,
notably popularized by devices like the iPhone in 2007, demonstrated the potential for
touch-based interaction. This sparked interest in expanding these capabilities to larger
surfaces
Microsoft Surface (2007): Microsoft introduced its Surface computing platform, a
table top computer that allowed users to interact with digital content using touch and
gestures. This marked a significant step in bringing surface computing to commercial
use.
Research and Development: Following Microsoft’s lead, various companies and
research institutions began exploring surface computing technologies. Innovations
included advancements in gesture recognition, object tracking, and haptic feedback.
Expanding Applications (2010s): Surface computing found applications in retail,
education, and entertainment. Interactive tables and kiosks became more common,
allowing for collaborative experiences.
Continued Evolution (2020s): The rise of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality
(VR) technologies has further influenced surface computing. Innovations in display
technology and AI integration continue to enhance user interactions.

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2. How Was Surface Computing Developed Who Was The

Contributor
Surface computing developed through a combination of technological advancements and
contributions from various researchers, companies, and innovators. Here’s an overview of its
development and key contributors:

Development Process
 Research Foundations:
 Early Touch Interfaces: Initial research in the 1960s and 1970s focused on touch-
sensitive screens and input devices. Notable projects included the development of the
first touch screen by E.A. Johnson in 1965.
 Advancements in Multi-Touch Technology:
 1980s-2000s: Researchers like Bill Buxton explored multi-touch interfaces,
emphasizing natural interaction. Technologies evolved to allow for multiple points of
contact on a single surface.
 Commercialization:
 Microsoft Surface (2007): Microsoft launched its Surface computing platform, a
ground breaking interactive table top. This marked a significant commercial push for
surface computing and demonstrated its potential in public spaces and collaboration.
 Research Labs and Innovations:
 MIT Media Lab: Known for pioneering work in human-computer interaction,
contributing to gesture recognition and interactive surfaces.
 Bell Labs: Researchers here contributed to the early development of touch and multi-
touch technologies.
 Emerging Companies and Start-ups: Various companies, including Smart Table
and Surface Hub, explored applications in education, retail, and entertainment,
furthering the technology's reach and capabilities.
Key Contributors
E.A. Johnson: Developed the first touch screen technology in the 1960s, laying the
groundwork for future innovations.
Bill Buxton: A leading researcher in human-computer interaction, he played a crucial
role in promoting multi-touch interfaces.

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Microsoft: Their Surface platform popularized the concept and provided a framework
for further developments in surface computing.
Research Institutions: Labs like MIT Media Lab and Stanford Research Institute
(SRI) have made significant contributions through research in interaction design and
multi-touch technology.
Various Tech Companies: Companies like Apple, Google, and start-ups in the
interactive technology space have continued to push the boundaries of surface
computing through hardware and software innovations.

3. How Does Surface Computing Works

Surface computing works by utilizing a combination of hardware and software technologies
to create interactive experiences on touch-sensitive surfaces. Here’s how it functions:
 Touch Detection
o Touch Sensors: The surface is embedded with sensors (such as capacitive or
infrared sensors) that detect touch. These sensors can identify the location and
pressure of touch inputs.
o Multi-Touch Capability: The system can recognize multiple touch points
simultaneously, allowing for gestures and collaborative interactions.
 Gesture Recognition
o Gestural Input: Users can interact with the surface using various gestures,
such as swipes, pinches, and taps. The software interprets these gestures to
perform specific actions.
o Object Recognition: Some systems can detect physical objects placed on the
surface, allowing them to interact with digital content (e.g., using a physical
card to trigger information).
 Visual Display
o Projection or Screen Technology: The surface may use projectors or screens
to display digital content. Some surfaces are designed to work with transparent
displays or augmented reality systems for enhanced interaction.
o Responsive Feedback: The system provides visual and auditory feedback
based on user interactions, enhancing the engagement.
 Software Interface

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o User Interface Design: The software provides a user-friendly interface that

adapts to touch interactions. This includes dynamic content that changes based
on user actions.
o Application Integration: Surface computing platforms often support various
applications, enabling users to perform tasks like browsing, gaming, or data
visualization.
 Collaboration Features
o Multi-User Support: Multiple users can interact with the surface
simultaneously, fostering collaboration. The system can differentiate between
users and track their inputs.

4. Which Protocol Is Surface Computing Uses

Surface computing utilizes various protocols and technologies to enable interaction and
communication between devices. Here are some key protocols commonly associated with
surface computing:
 Touch and Gesture Protocols
o HID (Human Interface Device) Protocol: Used for devices like touch
screens and tablets, allowing them to communicate touch and gesture inputs to
the host system.
o Multi-Touch Protocols: These include proprietary or standardized protocols
that support multi-touch capabilities, enabling the recognition of multiple
simultaneous touch points.
 Object Recognition Protocols
o NFC (Near Field Communication): Used for identifying and interacting with
physical objects placed on the surface, such as smart tags or cards.
o RFID (Radio Frequency Identification): Similar to NFC, RFID can be used
to detect and track objects on the surface.
 Networking Protocols
o TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol): Commonly
used for networking and communication between surface computing devices
and other systems, enabling data transfer and integration with cloud services.
o Bluetooth and Wi-Fi: For wireless connectivity, allowing devices to interact
with each other and share data.

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 Software Development Frameworks

o Microsoft Surface SDK: Provides APIs and tools for developing applications
that utilize surface computing features, supporting gesture recognition and
object interaction.
o Open Frameworks and Processing: These frameworks are often used for
creative coding in interactive installations, including surface computing
projects.
 Graphics and Interaction Protocols
o OpenGL: Used for rendering graphics in applications that require visual
representation of interactions on the surface.
o DirectX: Similar to OpenGL, it provides tools for high-performance graphics
and sound in surface computing applications.

5. Advantage and Disadvantage of Surface Computing

Here are the advantages and disadvantages of surface computing:
Advantages
Intuitive Interaction:
- Users can interact with digital content through natural gestures and touch,
making technology more accessible and user-friendly.
Multi-User Collaboration:
- Supports simultaneous interactions from multiple users, fostering
collaboration and teamwork, particularly in educational and professional
settings.
Enhanced Engagement:
- The interactive nature of surface computing can lead to more engaging and
immersive experiences, making it ideal for presentations, gaming, and
education.
Integration of Physical and Digital:
- Ability to recognize physical objects on the surface allows for innovative
interactions, such as using real-world items to trigger digital responses.
Customizability:
- Applications can be tailored for specific environments (e.g., retail, healthcare)
to meet particular needs and enhance user experience.

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Disadvantages
 Cost:
o Surface computing technology can be expensive to implement, especially in
large setups or high-quality displays.
 Limited Input Precision:
o Touch interactions may lack the precision of traditional input devices (like a
mouse), which can be a disadvantage in certain applications requiring fine
control.
 Space Requirements:
o Large surface areas are needed for effective use, which may not be feasible in
all environments.
 Durability and Maintenance:
o Touch-sensitive surfaces may be prone to wear and tear, requiring regular
maintenance and cleaning to keep them functional.
 Learning Curve:
o While many users find touch interfaces intuitive, there can still be a learning
curve for those accustomed to traditional computing methods.

6. Application Area of Surface Computing

Surface computing has a wide range of applications across various fields. Here are some key
areas:
 Education
o Interactive Learning: Allows students to collaborate on projects, access
digital resources, and engage with educational content in an interactive
manner.
o Virtual Whiteboards: Facilitates group discussions and brainstorming
sessions, enhancing participation and knowledge retention.
 Business and Collaboration
o Meeting Spaces: Interactive tables and displays support real-time
collaboration, brainstorming, and data visualization, improving teamwork and
decision-making.
o Presentations: Engaging presentations that allow for dynamic content
manipulation and audience interaction.

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 Entertainment
o Gaming: Provides immersive gaming experiences through touch and gesture-
based interactions, allowing players to engage in novel ways.
o Interactive Exhibits: Museums and exhibitions use surface computing to
create engaging displays that encourage visitor participation.
 Healthcare
o Patient Data Visualization: Enables healthcare professionals to manipulate
and visualize patient information dynamically for improved diagnostics and
treatment.
o Training Simulations: Provides realistic environments for medical
professionals to practice procedures and skills.
 Retail
o Interactive Displays: Enhances customer engagement by allowing users to
explore products, access information, and receive personalized
recommendations.
o Virtual Try-Ons: Customers can see how products look or fit without
physically trying them on, improving the shopping experience.
 Hospitality
o Interactive Check-In: Hotels use touch interfaces for seamless check-in
processes, allowing guests to access information and services easily.
o Smart Tables: Restaurants implement interactive menus that enhance
customer engagement and order customization.
 Transportation
o Navigation Systems: Interactive maps and touch interfaces improve user
interaction with navigation tools in vehicles and public transport systems.
o Smart Kiosks: Provide travellers with information about routes, schedules,
and services in an interactive format.
 Manufacturing and Design
o Prototyping and Simulation: Designers can manipulate 3D models
interactively, facilitating faster iterations and collaborative design processes.
o Training: Hands-on training simulations for operators in complex
manufacturing environments enhance skill development and safety.
 Smart Homes and IoT

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o Home Automation: Interactive surfaces control smart devices, lighting, and

security systems, providing a centralized interface for homeowners.
o Personal Assistants: Surface computing enhances the functionality of smart
assistants by enabling touch and gesture controls.
 Art and Creativity
o Digital Art Creation: Artists use interactive surfaces to create and manipulate
digital artworks in innovative ways.
o Collaborative Installations: Artists create interactive installations that
engage audiences through touch and movement.
 These applications illustrate how surface computing enhances user interaction and
experience across diverse sectors, promoting collaboration, engagement, and
creativity.

Summary
Surface computing represents a transformative approach to human-computer interaction,
allowing users to engage with digital content through touch, gestures, and physical object
manipulation on interactive surfaces. This technology, rooted in developments from the early
1980s, gained prominence with multitouch interfaces and applications like Microsoft Surface
in 2007. Key technologies include multitouch displays, gesture and object recognition, and
haptic feedback, each contributing to a more intuitive user experience.
Applications span various fields: in education, it fosters collaborative learning; in business, it
enhances teamwork and decision-making; in entertainment, it creates immersive experiences;
in healthcare, it improves patient care and training; and in retail, it enhances customer
engagement. However, challenges such as user adaptability, implementation costs, technical
limitations, and privacy concerns remain.
Looking to the future, trends such as integrating augmented and virtual reality, artificial
intelligence, and the Internet of Things are expected to drive further advancements in surface
computing. Overall, this technology holds significant promise for enhancing user experiences
across diverse domains.

Bibliography
1. [Online] [Cited: 28 sep 2024.] https://chatgpt.com/.
2. [Online] https://chatgpt.com/.

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