InFORM works by making use of a projector, an Xbox Kinect sensor, 900 pins, linkages and actuators, and a computer. Each pin — which can move up and down about 100 millimetres — is about 9.535 millimetres x 9.535 millimetres and acts as a real-life pixel. The pins are spaced 3.175 millimetres apart and controlled by microcontrollers (small computers) that talk to each other on a very fast network. A projector is used to display colour on top of each pin and a Kinect is used for mid-air gestures and to track objects and touches on the table.
Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/technology/sci-tech/researchers-unveil-shapechanging-technology-that-could-change-computer-interaction-forever-20131114-2xka8.html#ixzz3l3d17LCI
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