EXHI-bit: a mechanical structure for prototyping EXpandable handheld interfaces

Abstract

We present EXHI-bit, a mechanical structure for prototyping unique shape-changing interfaces that can be easily built in a fabrication laboratory. EXHI-bit surfaces consist of inter-weaving units that slide in two dimensions. This assembly enables the creation of unique expandable handheld surfaces with continuous transitions while maintaining the surface flat, rigid, and non-porous. EXHI-bit surfaces can be combined to create 2D and 3D multi-surface objects. In this paper, we demonstrate the versatility and generality of EXHI-bit with user-deformed and self-actuated 1D, 2D, and 3D prototypes employed in an architectural urban planning scenario. We also present vision on the use of expandable tablets in our everyday life from 10 users after having interacted with an EXHI-bit tablet.