A Shape-Shifting Wall Display

We built a shape-shifting wall display that dynamically changes its physical shape to support particular individual and group activities. Our current prototype comprises three vertical slim screens, each mounted on a mobile robot. Different shapes are created by controlling the position and angle of each robot. Examples include: (1) a flat wall display for collaboratively sharing visual content; (2) three separated screens for individual work; (3) a concave screen that provides a more immersive and private experience; (4) a convex screen that supports a mix of individual and group work, (5) tilted screens, and others. Shape-changing is controlled explicitly or implicitly. Explicit control occurs when a collaborator indicates a desired shape via a hand gesture. Implicit control occurs when the system infers a change in the group’s context, e.g., as determined from a change in the screen’s contents, or by monitoring the spatial relations between participants around the display (via proxemics and F-formations). Several interaction scenarios illustrate how a shape-changing display is used in practice.