Spatial Computing: Designing an Interface for our Bodies

"Spatial Computing" is a video project that presents a new type of computer interface design - one that uses real space instead of 2d space. Instead of moving a mouse to manipulate a cursor on a rectangular screen, "spatial computing" lets the user manipulate digital 3d objects in real space and in real time with just the use of their hands.

In this talk, Hwang will go over the differences and similarities between 2d and 3d media, both in terms of interactivity and overall experience.

In terms of interactivity, Hwang will discuss how he uses his background in dance and theater to fully integrate the body in a 3d interface design. Human beings naturally expect certain behaviors and gestures to mean or do certain things. In this project, Hwang will leverage those expectations to design a reliable and intuitive interface.

With full body integration comes true 3d media - media that we will be able to experience with our bodies. As any dancer or theater artist will tell you - 3d space has the opportunity to create experiences that are simply more profound, more meaningful, and more real than any 2d experience has to offer. This project imagines a computing experience that isn't just cursors on a screen, but 3d models right in front of your body.

After all, isn't it time we gave our monitors a rest?