The personal fabrication of irregularly shaped interactive displays

Abstract

Human computer interaction is currently constrained by flat rectangular interfaces. Through irregularly shaped interactive devices, we can unlock the full extent of interactions between the physical and digital world. However current methods for producing displays and interactive surfaces require specialised skills with limitations on the output form-factors. Fabricating interactive devices through the deposition of active materials unlocks the potential to produce interfaces rapidly and decentrally in an automated manner. Automation of the deposition processes supports both the usability by non-specialists and the expansion of potential form-factors that can be produced.

In this work, we present the novel "DisplayFab" framework through which related work is structured and future research challenges are derived. The experimental work in this thesis forms three chapters with individual experimental approaches. Each of these chapters extends the possible form of output devices and the usability of personal fabrication methods. In the first chapter, we combine domestic multi-material 3D printing with spraying electroluminescent (EL) material to develop a novel fabrication method for irregularly shaped interactive devices. This allows for a streamlined fabrication pipeline to automated display segment shape in a 3D space using readily available tools and methods. Our second experimental contribution investigates E ink as a depositable material for display fabrication to reduce usability constraints inherent to EL inks and to expand the form of output displays to truly bistable, low power, robust devices. It provides a novel method for democratising unique material through hacking and upcycling damaged devices. Finally, we develop a bespoke interactive fabrication tool to support non-specialised users in fabricating displays using EL materials. Through a user-centered design process, this chapter develops a guidance pipeline and high fidelity prototype to support non-specialists in adopting fabrication processes, with design input and subsequent evaluation by six artists and six 3D printing specialists.

Date of Award	9 May 2023
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	University of Bristol
Supervisor	Anne Roudaut (Supervisor) & Mike Fraser (Supervisor)