New Microsoft Surface 2.0 and InfoStrat's Surface 2.0 Information Visualization Controls

Microsoft Surface 2.0 was unveiled at CES 2011 a few days ago,  the result of a collaboration between Microsoft and Samsung.  Surface 2.0 is a step up!  The 40 inch 1080p high-definition LCD display no longer requires a projection/camera system, which clears the area below the screen  of bulky hardware.  The best part about Surface 2.0, in my opinion, is that it doesn't have to be used as a table.  It can be configured in a variety of ways, even mounted on walls.   For this reason, it will be useful in a variety of settings and situations.


Below is a quote about Surface 2.0 from Steve Ballmer's recent keynote address at CES 2011 that outlines the new technology that is embedded in the Surface 2.0 display:

"But what's really amazing about this technology, what really makes it magical, is the sensor itself. So, those first-generation Surface PCs needed cameras underneath that would look up to try to see what was going on. But what we have here is called PixelSense. PixelSense is new technology we've invented where there's infrared sensors all across this screen. Every single pixel is actually acting as a camera. The PC, the Surface here, can actually see." -Steve Ballmer:  My Keynote Address at the 2011 International Consumer Electronics Show" (Huffington Post, 1/6/2011)

The good news is that developers have been busy at work to create applications for Surface 2.0. Below is a video demonstration of what the folks at InfoStrat have recently created to support collaborative information visualization activities:







Here's the information about the controls from the Infostratcville YouTube channel:

"This is a sneak preview of a suite of data visualization controls developed by InfoStrat for Microsoft Surface 2.0. The controls will be made available as open source software at no charge on CodePlex.com in the first half of 2011."


"This data visualization control suite provides multi-touch versions of the following controls:
- DeepZoom multi-resolution image control that allows high performance display of very high-resolution imagery
- PowerPoint Viewer which enables slide decks to be arranged and presented using multi-touch
- PivotViewer chart control that allows dynamic sorting and categorization of data
- PhysicsCanvas which provides an infinite, dynamic canvas for viewing and organizing content"




RELATED
Josh Blake's post:  "Microsoft Surface 2.0 Data Visualization Controls by InfoStrat" 
Microsoft Surface Blog: "Microsoft and Samsung Unveil the Next Generation of Surface"


PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release

9 a.m. PST

January 6, 2010

InfoStrat Releases Next-Generation Data Visualization Controls for Microsoft Surface 2.0

Washington DC – January 6, 2010 – InfoStrat today announced plans to support Microsoft Surface 2.0 by releasing a control suite that accelerates the development of next-generation multi-touch data visualizations. The controls will be made available as open source software at no charge on CodePlex.com in the first half of 2011.

This data visualization control suite provides multi-touch versions of the following controls:

§ Deep Zoom multi-resolution image control that allows high performance display of very high-resolution imagery

§ PowerPoint Viewer which enables slide decks to be arranged and presented using multi-touch

§ Pivot Viewer chart control that allows dynamic sorting and categorization of data

§ Physics Canvas which provides an infinite, dynamic canvas for viewing and organizing content

Other features of the controls:

§ Works on both Microsoft Surface and Microsoft Windows 7 with touch

§ A single application built with the data visualization framework can support multiple hardware form factors including: horizontal multi-touch tables, tablets, and large format vertical touch screens

§ Innovative object recognition to enable rapid data manipulations (only on Microsoft Surface)

Watch a sneak preview of the control suite on YouTube:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lEVtjHlrf4I

InfoStrat is a member of Microsoft’s Technology Adoption Program (TAP) for Microsoft Surface. As a Microsoft Surface 2.0 TAP member, InfoStrat receives early access to hardware and software, allowing InfoStrat to gain expertise and influence the development of the product before it was released to the public.

In 2008, InfoStrat solved the problem of using Bing Maps 3D on Microsoft Surface in a way that performed well and was WPF-friendly. InfoStrat open-sourced the solution as a reusable control for the WPF and Surface community. Since then, the control has received over 120,000 page views and has over 8200 downloads, and has also been featured in many of our own applications. This control, known as InfoStrat.VE, has become one of the most popular controls for building mapping applications on Microsoft Surface: http://bingmapswpf.codeplex.com

“We are proud to be part of the Microsoft Surface development community,” according to Jim Townsend, president of InfoStrat, “and excited about the possibilities of Microsoft’s new version of Surface.”

Microsoft Surface provides a new way to experience and use information and digital content, engaging the senses, improving collaboration and empowering people to interact. Microsoft Surface is at the forefront of developing software and hardware that uses vision-based technology to fundamentally change the way people use computing devices. More information can be found at http://www.surface.com.

Information Strategies ("InfoStrat") is an award-winning Microsoft Gold Certified Partner and a Microsoft Surface Strategic Partner and member of the Technology Adopter Program.

For more information, press only:

Josh Wall, InfoStrat, (202) 364-8822 ext. 202, joshw@infostrat.com

More Multi-touch: New video from NUITEQ: Snowflake Suite Multi-touch Software on a 46" HD LCD

Here is the promotional information from NUITEQ:


"NUITEQ's Snowflake Suite off the shelf multi-touch software product showcased on a 46" flat full HD multi-touch LCD.  Available for purchase now.


Snowflake Suite is honored with a Stevie Awards finalist recognition for Best Product or Service of the Year 2009 in the category Media and Entertainment for the International Business Awards. Snowflake Suite is available to OEM's, SI's, VAR's, software engineers and end clients. Snowflake Suite comes with hands full of multi-touch applications, an API and a SDK.


Compatible with different multi-touch hardware technology platforms, including: 3M Touch Systems, N-trig, NextWindow, Lumio, Nexio, IR Touch, rear camera based systems, dreaMTouch and others."


"Natural User Interface Technologies AB (NUITEQ) is a Swedish technology company, that offers off the shelf and customized software for interactive single and multi-touch devices. Additionally NUITEQ executes large scale customization projects, concerning multi-touch technology hardware, software and services. In parallel, NUITEQ is working on other innovative emerging technologies within the field of Human Computer Interaction (HCI)."


Today's News:  NUITEQ wins MerlT Award for development through collaboration, growth potential and innovative thinking.


RELATED

NUITEQ Flat 46'' Multi-touch LCD

Key Features Size: 46" Snowflake Suite life time license included Full HD Simultaneous detectionand tracking of up 32 touch points Definite and reliable detection of touch points Real multi-touch function: no specific constraints, like temporal order or position of touch points Particularly suitable for embedded systems: Processing of complex evaluation steps via touch controller, e.g. keyboard emulation Sample rate: 50 frames/s Glass: 4 mm toughened safety glass Slim design: only 3 cm construction depth and 5 cm frame width USB interface and separate power supply No drift, no calibration required Applicable to all display technologies Protocol: TUIO Detection of size and position of objects in the active area 2 years warranty Electrical Power Supply: 19 V DC ± 20 % Power Consumption: 11 W Interface: USB 1.1, full speed   Functional Simultaneous Touch Points: 32 Touch Point Size: > 10 mm Spatial Resolution: < 2 mm Communication Protocol : Propriatary or ·· TUIO 1.0 (2Dcur and 25Dcur profiles) Scan Speed: 55 ms Mechanical Data Frame Dimensions: 1136 x 680 x 28 mm Frame Finish: Black powder coating (RAL 9011) Active Area: 1018.1 x 572.7 mm Window: 4 mm double-sided anti-reflective laminted safety filterglass Weight: 11 kg (including filter glass) Monitor: Direct fit to SHARP PN-465E (35,5 KG) Environmental Operating Temperature: 0 °C to 40 °C Operating Humidity: 20 % to 80 % (no condensation)

Also available as a horizontal solution.









NUITEQ Wiki
Harry van der Veen's NUITEQ Blog
(I've been following Harry van der Veen's journey since he was a university student. At the time, he was a leading member of the NUI-Group, creating a DYI multi-touch table as part of his studies. This was before Microsoft Surface was born.)

Missed this one: Microsoft Surface in the Mix Lounge on Holland America Cruise Ships

They didn't have this on the Veendam when I was on the cruise! This video doesn't show anything new or exciting if you are familiar with tabletop/multi-touch/gesture based computing. I'm sure it will be eye opening to the average cruise ship passenger.



Microsoft Surface is New Coolness on Veendam Holland America Blog (5/4/09)


Press Release:
Seattle, Wash., December 7, 2009 —
"As part of its ongoing Signature of Excellence enhancements, Holland America Line will install five Microsoft® Surface® units in Mix, its newest lounge venue with three specialty bars — Martinis, Champagne, and Spirits & Ales. Already in full operation on ms Veendam, Mix and Surface units will be completed on ms Rotterdam by mid-December, followed by three additional ships."


"An exciting new entertainment space, Mix is a destination lounge where guests can meet and mingle throughout the day and night. Mix is an open and inviting space anchored by a pianist providing entertainment for the three distinctly themed specialty bars."


More:  Holland America Line Features Microsoft Surface in New Mix Lounge on Several Ships

Near Interaction Multi-touch Tables and Displays: London College of Fashion & More

Near Interaction is a company based in Lisbon, Portugal, and London, England. They are a team of interaction and media designers, focsuing on interactive physical and digital installations. Here is a sample of their work:
























Information about the Fashion Graduate Exhibition 2009 from NearInteraction's Vimeo site:
"The London College of Fashion Graduate Exhibition 2009 displays six multi-touch tables with integrated object recognition to unveil the 570 student portfolios. From a wide choice displayed on the three walls, visitors can make a selection of their preferred cards. Activating once a card is placed on the tables, visitors can move, zoom and rotate by touching the surface of the table a variety of portfolio images representing the chosen student...London College of Fashion Graduate Exhibition 2009 was designed and produced by NearInteraction in association with Paul Albert and John Nussey."

London College of Fashion Graduate Exhibition 2009

NearInteraction at the London College of Fashion Graduate Exhibition 2009 from nearinteraction on Vimeo.


Tangible Multi-touch Connectivity

Tangible Multi-touch Connectivity from nearinteraction on Vimeo.

"As part of Future Labs - Visual Experiences of the Future at FPC, Tangible Multi-touch Connectivity explores the multi-touch gestural concepts of touch to activate, pinch to enlarge and scroll to select within a multi-user environment, combined with the interaction concepts of user-identity, networks, and behavioural lifespan through a metaphorical game."

NearInteraction Playtecture: Physical + Digital + Kids + Play

NearInteraction at Habitar Portugal | Playtecture from nearinteraction on Vimeo.

Interesting, evolving work!

Multi-touch, multimedia, multi-modal: Fujitsu LIFEBOOK T4310 has a multitude of possibilities!

Multi-touch, multi-media, multi-modal... the Fujitsu LIFEBOOK T4310 looks like it provides multiple possibilities for people from all walks of life:

-GestureWorks

The LIFEBOOK T4310 comes with an integrated web cam and fingerprint reader, and a variety of I/O options, including HDMI, USB, Firewire, BlueTooth,  LAN, analog video output, SD card reader, line in/out, a wireless switch for the integrated 3G and UMTS, and an express card reader. There is an optional modular bay that can accommodate an additional drive or battery.


The fun part is that the Fujitsu LIFEBOOK T4310 hands-on comes with Microsoft's Touch Pack applications, which are demonstrated in the video below:

• Microsoft Surface globe
• Surface Collage
• Microsoft Rebound touch game
• Surface Lagoon screensaver, which provides a water-ripple effect and little fish that respond to touch interaction.

As demonstrated in the video, the LIFEBOOK supports gesture interaction, multi-touch interaction, stylus interaction, and traditional keyboard interaction. The capacitive display has a bi-directional hinge, allowing it to be turned 360 degrees, and also positioned so that the display can be set facing up horizontally over the keyboard. (This feature would be welcomed in educational settings, if the notebook was used in education settings, as it could support paired and group collaborative learning activities.)


What I like about the LIFEBOOK is that it has an integrated ambient light sensor, which automatically adjusts the brightness of the display according to the level of light in the environment. This feature is important for people like me who are on the go and must use their computing devices under a range of lighting conditions.


I would love to get my hands on the Fujitsu LIFEBOOK T4310 for a month and test the system in-depth in my day-job as a school psychologist, and in my leisure pursuits as a UX/designer/developer/musician/gamer/etc,  "hobbyist".


Can anyone make this dream come true?


RELATED:
Fujitsu's multitouch LIFEBOOK T4310 tablet makes quick work of Microsoft's Touch Pack 
(Paul Miller, Engadget, 9/6/009)
Microsoft Touch Pack Gallery (Engadget)
Engadget's Reader Comments


I visited Fujitsu's website to gather additional information, and found a couple of press releases in German:


IFA 2009:  Fujitsu setzt auf Fingerspitzengefuhl und prasentiert  Notebook mit Multiple-Touch-Function (pdf)


Here is the press contact:


Fujitsu Technology Solutions
Melanie Wolf, Senior PR Manager
Tel.: + 49 (0) 89 62060 4458, Mobile: + 49 (0) 171 33 42 882,
Melanie.wolf@ts.fujitsu.com

Bump Top 3D Desktop on a Touch Screen: Toss Your Photos to your Facebook Icon!

BumpTop is a 3D computer desktop organizer that provides much more flexibility- and perhaps efficiency, than the current folder-icon based desktop we interact with every day.

Touch Screen Version - Supports the use of 1 or 2 fingers - Multi-touch version for Windows 7 coming soon:


Original Version


If you want to see how different people use BumpTop, there are quite a few BumpTop videos on YouTube for your viewing pleasure.

The next release will support multi-touch, running on Windows 7. According to the BumpTop blog, the application will be bundled with 3D graphics cards. The full version is just under $30.00.

RELATED

BumpBlog

Patrick Dubroy's Personal Blog
FYI: Patrick works for BumpTop. He has a master's degree in human-computer interaction, and focuses on HCI, programming, and interaction on his blog.

Interactive Marketing, Retail, and Multi-touch: Here's Lots of Video Clips from EyeClick

A reader brought to my attention the work of EyeClick, an interactive multimedia advertising company that has been around for a few years. They create interactive floors, and use "intuitive body motion with floors and surface areas".

-EyeClick

I've included several videos below, but for more information and related details, check out EyeClick's product page, which has a nice showreel, and information about the benefits of interactive marketing.










EyeClick appears to be similar to lm3labs, a company I've posted about previously.

Thanks, Paul Glen for the link!

More from Multitouch Barcelona!

Multitouch Barcelona is up to more great work!

Multitouch Space Invaders XL

Multitouch Space Invaders XL from Multitouch Barcelona on Vimeo.

Guten Touch, by Multitouch Barcelona

GUTEN TOUCH from Multitouch Barcelona on Vimeo.

"Designed for the Red Bull Music Academy 08, Guten Touch is an interactive installation that involves people into a natural relationship with technology. A two projected display system plus a 3m x 2m multitouch wall showcase applications designed to engage us into human friendly experiences rather than flashy and jaw-dropping visualizations. Space Invaders hit by foam balls, pixel paintings created with brushes and digital objects held by hands try to blur boundaries between real and digital."

Multi-touch Barcelona (new site)
"Multitouch Barcelona is a recently born interaction design group that explores natural communication between people and technology. They design touch sensitive environments where real world interactions move to a digital context. Interfaces where people touch, play, move, feel...Where senses play their natural role, where everything just 'happens" as it does in the real world. "




RELATED
Offf 2009: International Festival for the Post-Digital Creation Culture

MeeTTable: Kevin O'Mahoney's Multi-Touch Meeting Table Project

Kevin O' Mahoney is a multimedia developer who is working on his Masters in Media Design at Cork University in Ireland. The MeeTTable, pictured above, supports collaboration among 2 or more people who are developing 3D design projects. (Kevin is a member of the NUI-Group.)

More information about Kevin's project, include a video, can be found on his blog.

Future of Interaction: Microsoft Lab's Vision 2019 Montage; Future Healthcare Montage

The following video is from Microsoft Office Vision 2019. If you visit the YouTube source, you'll find an interesting discussion about this five-minute+ clip.



Video Presentation from MIX09: Untold Stories of Touch, Gesture, & NUI
Joseph Fletcher, Design Manager, Microsoft Surface


"Learn about new patterns, behaviors, and design approaches for touch and gesture interfaces from a practitioners point of view. Learn early lessons from applied knowledge of touch applications, devices, and design methods."



LukeW's notes from Joseph Fletcher's presentation
LukeW's post: Design Principles at Microsoft

LukeW is the Senior Director of Product Ideation & Design at Yahoo! Inc.

More for Multi-touch: NextWindow Plug-in for Natural User Interface's Snowflake Multi-touch Software -and more.

Those of you have an HP TouchSmart, Dell Studio One PC, or NextWindow displays might be interested in the new NUI plug-in that supports NUI Suite Snowflake software. Here are the features of the plugin, according to information from the Natural User Interface website:

• Detailed user manual included with FAQ
• Developed on fast and reliable C++ platform
• Intuitive
• Customizable
• Gesture recognition library
• TUIO/OSC (Open Sound Control) support (sending and receiving events)
• Low level API
• Hardware accelerated rendering
• Support for wide variety of media types
• Advanced window handler that supports scaling and rotation
• Suitable for Windows® XP and Windows® Vista (Mac OSX and Linux can be developed on request)
• Audio support
• Single, dual support
• Multi-threaded resource handler (For fast data visualization)

"NUI has partnered up with NextWindow™, an international leader in the development of optical multi-touch technology and the manufacturer of optical multi-touch screens, overlays and OEM touch components."

"NextWindow™'s integrated technology allows for natural and intuitive interaction of digital content on flat TFT, LCD and Plasma solutions."

"The NUI NextWindow™ plug-in can be used with any programming language that supports TUIO, i.e. C/C++/C#, Java, Flash, Python, VVVV etc, meaning that software developers can run their own applications on NextWindow™, utilizing the NUI NextWindow™ plug-in."

Comment:
I became a fan of NextWindow touch-screen displays in early 2007 when I worked on a couple of touch-screen projects in my HCI and Ubicomp classes at UNC-Charlotte.

I've been using my HP TouchSmart PC at work with students with disabilities. I'm experimenting with the NUI Suite SnowFlake on my TouchSmart, and found that interacting with the Particles application delighted students with severe autism. The activities provided opportunities to establish joint attention. I also noticed an increase in the number of vocalizations and/or verbalizations among the students. Of course, this was NOT a scientific study.

RELATED
Definition of Joint Attention from UConn:

"Joint Attention is the process of sharing one’s experience of observing an object or event, by following gaze or pointing gestures. It is critical for social development, language acquisition, cognitive development…"

Establishing joint attention is an important step in the development of social interaction skills among young people who have autism spectrum disorders.

More about joint attention:

Joint Attention Study Has Implication for Understanding Autism
Science Daily, 9/29/07

Asperger-Advice: Joint Attention

Autism Games: Joint Attention and Reciprocity

Why is joint attention a pivotal skill in autism?
Tony Charman

Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2003 February 28; 358(1430): 315–324. doi: 10.1098/rstb.2002.1199.