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The tops of the four white tables are fitted with a interface for
visitors to touch and manipulate with their own hands: switches, dials,
and turntables. Computer graphics images are projected on the tables'
surfaces and the interface from a ceiling-hung projector; as the visitor/participant
moves parts of the interface, the projected images responds in real
time, as though they were physically linked to the interface. The
sounds generated in key with the computer graphics change simultaneously
as well. The intimate connection between the interface and the reaction
by the computer graphics ensures that the graphics and sound respond
just as they ordinarily do when one touches an object; thus, as one
experiments with the interface, one gradually comes to see physical
reality and the images as being equivalent. The result is, thus, a
Mixed Reality environment. The objectives of this were to create a
Mixed Reality environment that several participants can share while
creating visuals and music together, interactively.
Composition on the Table, No. 1: Push
The 36 push switches on the round table are fitted into a six by six
matrix. Each time the participant presses a switch, the arrow projects
on it changes direction. Furthermore, the four lights moving across
the table top change direction according to the switch combination
pressed, and the interaction creates pulse-like music.
Composition on the Table, No. 2: Twist
This square table is fitted with a circle of 16 dials that can be
twisted at will. At each turn of a dial, an image projected on the
table top changes its angle, and the music created in conjunction
with it also changes.
Composition on the Table, No. 3: Turn
The round table top is covered with four white platters that rotate
freely-like a set of DJ's turntables. When the participant turns one
of the platters, the computer graphics and music go through variations
in response to the changes in speed of rotation and direction.
Composition on the Table, No. 4: Slide
The rectangular table is covered with eight white plates that can
slide forward and backward. When the participant slides one of them,
the combinations of images projected on it alter, and the action of
the light playing in circles above it and the music change.
Note: This work was created with the cooperation of the Mixed Reality
Systems Laboratory Inc. for entry in the First International Symposium
on Mixed Reality in 1999 (ISMR99).
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